SearchArchives for November 2009
25 November, 2009Salary survey
shows PS on top
Public sector wages have outpaced the private sector, according to the latest average weekly earnings figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.Economists said the Public Sector had experienced its fastest wage growth in five years at 4.6 per cent, while private sector wage growth was at its slowest in seven years at 3.2 per cent for the year to September.
The increases for the quarter were 3.2 per cent for the Public Service and 0.7 per cent in the private sector.
The ABS figures showed average weekly earnings for August in the Public Sector were $1,320.10 (full-time adult total earnings, which includes overtime), a 5.4 per cent increase from the same time last year.
In the private sector, average weekly earnings for the month were $1,228.30, representing a 4.4 per cent increase from the same period in 2008.
The national average full-time adult total earnings rose by 5.2 per cent for males and 4.2 per cent for females in the 12 months to August.
Economist with the Commonwealth Bank, James McIntyre was reported in the media as saying the Public Sector wage increases could be inflationary.
“It would seem surprising that in an environment of rising unemployment and deteriorating fiscal positions that Public Sector wage rises have not eased back somewhat,” Mr McIntyre told Australian Associated Press.
“This would suggest a lack of flexibility in Public Sector wage setting.”
25 November, 2009
Timely warning in
overtime report
Calls to address the amount of unpaid overtime being undertaken by Australian workers have followed the release of a think tank survey that found Australians were putting in an average of eight hours unpaid overtime every week.Executive Director of the Australia Institute which undertook the survey, Richard Denniss, said the results showed overwork was an “obvious area for Government to address.”
Dr Denniss said the survey, Something for nothing – unpaid overtime in Australia, found the typical full-time employee was working 70 minutes of unpaid overtime a day, which is equal to 33 eight-hour days per year, or six and a half standard working weeks.
“The amount of unpaid overtime worked in Australia is the equivalent of 1.16 million full-time jobs,” Dr Denniss said.
“Given the dangers to health, families and communities posed by overwork, we should be looking to the success that other countries have had in capping overtime.”
The survey examines the nature, extent and consequences of Australia’s heavy reliance on unpaid overtime.
He said while Australians had a reputation for taking ‘sickies’ and ‘smokos’, the evidence suggested otherwise.
He said across the workforce, 2.14 billion hours of unpaid overtime per year gave a $72 billion ‘gift’ to employers.
Dr Denniss said the figures meant six per cent of the economy depended on free labour and that the economic value of unpaid overtime was enormous but largely unacknowledged.
The report shows 45 per cent of Australian workers and more than half of all full-time employees work more hours than they are paid for on a typical workday and that 44 per cent of people who did so said it was ‘compulsory’ or ‘expected.’
Another 43 per cent said it was ‘not expected, but also not discouraged.’
In response to the findings, the Institute has nominated 25 November as national ‘Go Home On Time Day’, which has been supported by the union movement.
The Public Service Association of NSW (PSA) has urged Public Servants to become involved in the initiative, saying Government employees had been working unpaid overtime for years in order to “get the job done.”
“Let’s start reducing the unpaid overtime rip-off now,” the PSA said.
‘Go Home On Time Day’ encourages workers to postpone all last minute tasks and register for an online ‘leave pass’ at www.gohomeontimeday.org.au to allow them to leave work on time.
25 November, 2009
Microfilm develops
at State Records
The State Records Authority of NSW has completed a pilot project to digitise microfilm copies of immigrant arrival records and has placed them online for public access.The project aimed to provide researchers with access to the records at no charge.
The Authority said the Persons on bounty ships (Agent’s Immigrant Lists), 1838-96 (NRS 5316); Persons on bounty ships arriving at Port Phillip, 1839-51 (NRS 5318) and Germans on bounty ships, 1849-52 (NRS 5320) had been chosen for their likely appeal to family historians and because they covered much of the nineteenth century.
“You will be able to scroll through the digital copies of these lists, ship by ship, just as you would if you were going through a microfilm in the reading rooms,” the Authority said.
However, it reminded users the project had been a pilot to test the feasibility of large scale digitisation from microfilm.
“As a result of the reduction process to make the images easier to download we are aware that there may be problems with the image quality of some of the lists,” the Authority said. “Furthermore, in some cases the quality of the original record is often quite poor, further affecting the quality of the microfilm and subsequent digital copy.
“We are looking at ways of overcoming the variable quality of the digital copies.”
State Records said the digital copies were being provided as reference copies only and that higher resolution copies could be contacted from the Authority.
The lists were available from www.records.nsw.gov.au
25 November, 2009
Treasurer gets
power power
The State Energy Reform Strategy has been placed in the hands of Treasurer, Eric Roozendaal who will see electricity retailing move from Government to private sector management.Premier, Nathan Rees announced Mr Roozendaal’s new task saying he would be responsible for bringing the strategy to reality.
“I want to ensure a smooth transition and that we maintain the momentum for one of the biggest financial transactions of the year,” Mr Rees said.
“I am confident the Treasurer will deliver the best possible result, allowing us to reinvest the returns into transport and services across the State.”
Mr Rees said the strategy aimed to encourage private investment in new baseload generation capacity in NSW by withdrawing the Government from electricity retailing.
He said the Government would sell power station development sites and transfer the generators’ wholesale electricity trading functions to the private sector.
“The Government remains committed to securing the State’s electricity supply and maximising the value for the families and business of NSW,” Mr Rees said.
“Our number one priority is supporting jobs for families and businesses in NSW – and leading the state through the economic recovery.”
Mr Roozendaal said he would continue to steer NSW’s $360 billion economy on the road to recovery.
“The Premier and I are committed to supporting job creation and keeping NSW on the road to economic recovery,” Mr Roozendaal said.
“This is about managing the recovery so that we have a steady and planned path to better economic times.”
25 November, 2009
Auditor brings
Agencies to book
The Auditor-General has highlighted a number of areas of concern for Government Agencies in the human services and technology fields in Volume Six of his Report to Parliament for 2009.The report includes comments on the financial audits of 30 NSW Agencies and Departments.
The A-G, Peter Achterstraat said there were weaknesses in the accounting processes and controls of the Departments of Community Services (DOCS), Ageing, Disability and Home Care, the Home Care Service of NSW and NSW Business Link.
Mr Achterstraat said he had raised some of the issues consistently over a number of years.
“These need to be addressed promptly”, he said.
“Government Agencies must have good accounting processes and controls, otherwise errors will be made, money will be misspent and resources poorly utilised.”
His report highlighted salary overpayments for workers at the Department of Ageing Disability and Homecare, which totalled $1.6 million, an increase of $500,000 on last year.
Mr Achterstraat said $1.3 million of the total amount was unlikely to be recovered.
He said the Department of Ageing, Disability and Homecare had also issued $48 million in grants to non-government organisations without proper agreements, which he said increased the risk of agreed services not being provided and unspent money not being returned.
He also said the number of child protection notifications made to the Department of Community Services was “well above the national average.”
“Total child protection reports to DOCS have increased by 43 per cent over the last five years and the number of reports referred for further assessment rose by 62 per cent,” he said.
The Auditor said child protection remained a challenging issue for DOCS.
He said the State Property Authority had recently completed two buildings, located in Queanbeyan and Penrith, at costs significantly more than they are worth.
The Authority said the buildings were completed on time and within budget, however Mr Achterstraat said the Queanbeyan Government Service Centre cost $34.5 million to build and was valued at $24.3 million, while the Penrith Government Office Building cost $43.5 million and was valued at $26.5 million.
He said these values did not reflect the cost of replicating the assets nor the benefits to other Government Agencies or the public from relocating Government Agencies to the new facilities but it was not uncommon for the total construction cost of properties to exceed valuations.
“This is because the main purpose of these buildings is to satisfy Government service delivery needs, not commercial investment,” he said.
Full details of the Auditor-General’s report was available from www.audit.nsw.gov.au
25 November, 2009
Councils rate high on
complaints register
Twenty-one of the State’s 152 Local Councils were responsible for over half of the 1,200-plus complaints received by the Division of Local Government during the 2008-09 financial year.Minister for Local Government, Barbara Perry said topping the list of most complained about Councils was Shoalhaven City Council, which received 75 complaints.
Ms Perry said Gosford City Council was second with 48 complaints, and Tweed Shire Council was third with 40.
“It’s very concerning that such a relatively small number of Councils account for more than half of the 1,200 complaints received,” Ms Perry said.
“We know that most Councils do a good job but they need to remember at all times to work in the interests of their community.”
She said while a minority of Councils continued to receive large amounts of criticism, the number of complaints against Councils overall was down on last year.
Ms Perry said the Division of Local Government worked to ensure Councils provided a high level of service to ratepayers and that Council decisions were lawful and timely.
“Complaints can alert the Division to instances when proper processes have not been adhered to or services are lacking, so if you have a complaint, I’d strongly encourage you to contact the Division of Local Government,” she said.
“Complaints can help measure community satisfaction with Council decisions and can also provide a useful source of information and feedback for improving a Council’s services.”
Complaints received by the Division of Local Government covered the range of functions Local Councils undertake including councils’ planning, governance and enforcement roles.
Ms Perry said the top reasons given for complaining were planning and development (25 per cent), governance (15 per cent), misconduct (15 per cent), enforcement (11 per cent), pecuniary/ conflict of interest (6 per cent), customer service (5per cent) and mismanagement/ maladministration (4 per cent).
25 November, 2009
Health turns up heat
on summer warnings
NSW Health has warned residents to take the risk of heat-related illnesses seriously as summer sets in.Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant said heat-related illness was a major issue in Australia and ranged from mild conditions such as rashes and cramps to medical emergencies such as heat stroke.
Dr Chant said signs of heat related illness included nausea, vomiting, faintness and dizziness, loss of appetite, weakness, headaches, loss of sweating and reduced urine output.
“People showing moderate to severe signs of heat related illness should seek urgent medical attention through their GP or the Emergency Department at their nearest hospital,” Dr Chant said.
“Heat related illness is a particular concern when there is a wave of hot weather for several consecutive days.”
She said while everyone was at risk of heat-related illness, the people at greatest risk were those over 65, babies and young children, unwell people and people on medication that interferes with the body’s ability to cool itself.
Dr Chant said it was important to check on elderly neighbours, friends and family members at least twice a day during the hot weather.
“And it is absolutely essential that children and pets are not left in cars,” she said.
“They will become distressed and seriously ill, in a matter of minutes.”
Dr Chant said a few simple precautions helped combat the risk of heat-related illness.
“Everyone needs to stay well hydrated. People should carry water while they are out and about and avoid alcohol and caffeine beverages,” she said.
“People should keep out of the sun in the hottest part of the day, limit physical activity, apply sunscreen and protect their skin by wearing clothing and a hat.”
Further information on heat-related illnesses was available from www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au
25 November, 2009
Land Council lands
Auditor’s criticism
An audit of the New South Wales Aboriginal Land Council has recommended it review its current expenditure levels after recording losses of $181 million over the past two financial years.Auditor-General, Peter Achterstraat said the Council was funding underperforming Local Aboriginal Land Councils, and suggested it consider pulling its financial support.
“I recommend the Council stop funding underperforming Local Aboriginal Land Councils,” Mr Achterstraat said.
“The Council continues to experience high levels of impaired receivables, mainly due to an escalation in Local Area Land Council (LALC) debt.
“During the year, LALC debts increased by $3.5 million to $23.1 million.”
He said the Council had negotiated agreements with some LALCs to assign a portion of their annual funding towards debt repayment.
“For the LALCs with outstanding Local Government rate debts, Council’s policy is to deduct 30 per cent or more of the LALC’s annual funding allocation for repayment of debt,” Mr Achterstraat said.
“In view of the fall in the value of its investments, I believe it would be prudent for the
Council to review its ability to maintain its current levels of expenditure.”
The Council said it believed the performance of its investments was consistent with that of other comparable investment portfolios.
The Auditor said 23 per cent of LALC’s financial reports for 2007-08 (compared to 25 per cent in 2006-07) were unsatisfactory or had not been received.
Mr Achterstraat said the Council had also made a $584,000 loss from rural properties in 2008-09.
“Council has advised that they are reconsidering their strategy regarding rural properties,” he said.
The Auditor said the Council, in partnership with the State Government, had maintained its commitment to a program to deliver better water and sewerage services to discrete Aboriginal communities across the State.
The Auditor said he had identified areas for the Council to improve its internal controls, which have been reported to management.
He said the Council’s response was “generally favourable” and that many of the recommendations had been or were in the process of being implemented.
The Aboriginal Land Council’s functions are wide ranging and include maintaining a register of all land held by LALCs; advising the Minister on matters relating to Aboriginal Land Rights; exploring for minerals and other natural resources; paying rating authorities where rates are unpaid by LALCs; and administering the NSW Aboriginal Land Council Account and the Mining Royalties Account.
The audit of the Council’s financial report for the year ended 30 June 2009 resulted in an unqualified Independent Auditor’s Report.
The audit report could be accessed at www.audit.nsw.gov.au
25 November, 2009
Coroner wants more
Police resources
The Deputy State Coroner has recommended NSW Police establish a special task force or unit with sufficient resources to investigate long term unsolved homicides and suspected homicides of missing persons.Deputy State Coroner, Carl Milovanovich made the recommendation when handing down the findings of his coronial report into the death of 16-year-old Lee Ellen Stace, who died at Redcliffe in 1997.
Mr Milovanovich criticised Police for the “inordinate time” it took to complete the investigation into Ms Stace’s death and to compile a brief of evidence for the Coroner’s Court.
“Coroners are mindful that Police resources are limited and there will always be competing priorities, however, it should never take 12 years to put a coronial brief together, unless there is evidence of on-going and meaningful investigations,” Mr Milovanovich said.
“It is apparent that the investigation into the death of Lee Stace sat dormant for long periods.”
He commended Grafton’s Detective Senior Constable Tony King, who took charge of the local investigation in 2002, for his “tireless work”, but highlighted that Detective King had completed all the work “virtually on his own” with “only token assistance from time to time” from other Agencies.
“Consideration should be given to setting up within the NSW Police Force an appropriate Agency with the skills and experience to examine and re-investigate long term unsolved homicides and suspected homicides in missing persons,” the Deputy State Coroner said.
“As to where such a unit should be located and resourced is of course a matter for the Commissioner of Police and the NSW Government.”
He said he was “well aware” the Homicide Unit had a cold case team which was actively reviewing unsolved cases, but that it would be a “great shame” if Ms Stace’s case was to “sit on a shelf for a number of years before further investigation.”
Mr Milovanovich recommended NSW Police consider appointing a lead Agency to manage, fund and resource homicide investigations in rural areas, and that the Agency take responsibility for preparing a brief of evidence for the Coroner.
In his findings, the Coroner said he could not identify the cause of death nor the person responsible.
The Police Association of NSW said the findings highlighted the need for additional resources for rural policing.
President of the Association, Bob Pritchard said limited police resources presented extra challenges for police when pursuing long-running cases.
“Without the resources to dedicate to these investigations, cases that could be solved may get left ‘on the shelf’ while officers deal with the day-to-day pressures of police work,” Mr Pritchard said.
“These pressures are even more apparent in rural areas, where local officers have to perform a wide range of duties.
Mr Pritchard urged the Government to take the Deputy State Coroner’s recommendations seriously.
25 November, 2009
State’s best teachers
win top marks
A ceremony at Government House in Sydney has been held to recognise 38 of the State’s most outstanding teachers.The teachers were presented with a 2009 Quality Teaching Award for their commitment to excellence and student achievement.
Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth said the Awards were presented to Government and non-Government teachers working in early childhood education, schools, TAFEs, and universities.
Ms Firth said the award recipients were the “most exceptional” teachers and inspired their students to do their best.
“Every day there are thousands of dedicated teachers working in schools where they are making a positive difference to the lives of their students,” Ms Firth said.
“Teachers are the cornerstone of a great education system and it’s inspiring to see these individuals recognised by their communities, who obviously place great value on their abilities.”
She thanked the winners for their contribution to teaching and congratulated them on their accomplishments.
Ms Firth said the recipients were selected against criteria developed by the Australian College of Educators according to a three stage process that included three references; a professional portfolio; and in class observation and interviews with students, parents and teaching colleagues.
Recipients received a Lenovo computer as part of their award.
The 2009 award recipients were:
Early Childhood
Jean Scott, Edgeworth Heights Public School
Primary
Sarah Bryce, St Ives North Public School
Angela Churchland, Gordon East Public School
Katrin Cornell, Turramurra Public School
Shirlee-Ann Curtis, Crawford Public School
Elizabeth Hamilton, St Ives North Public School
Rosalyn Thomas, Crawford Public School
Cheryl Turi, St Luke’s Grammar School
Beverley Wetzler, Balgowlah North Public School
Peita Wicht, The Pittwater House Schools
Melinda Williams, Turramurra Public School
Secondary
Leonie Clarke, Marist Sisters College Woolwich
Debra Clerke, Callaghan College, Waratah Technology Campus
Adla Coure, Domremy Catholic College
Leigh Crangle, Northmead High School
Michael Farrell, Abbotsleigh
Maxine Johnson, Gosford High School
Donna Lane, Dunedoo Central School
Trudy Lawson, Callaghan College, Jesmond Senior Campus
Robyn Lynch, Callaghan College, Wallsend Campus
John Martin, Bethlehem College Ashfield
Ruth Miller, Arden Anglican School
Marcus Powell, Marist Sisters College Woolwich
Lisa Strazzeri, Patrician Brothers College Fairfield
Barbara Sulikowski, Warners Bay High School
Phillip Webster, Killarney Heights High School
Kathy West, St Joseph’s Catholic College
TAFE
Ronda Collins, Northern Sydney Institute
Vivian Evans, New England Institute
Gillian Gray, Northern Sydney Institute
Kaye Higgins, Northern Sydney Institute
David Lovell, South Western Sydney Institute
Sandra Lucock, Western Sydney Institute
Merrianne Sinclair, Northern Sydney Institute
University
Dr Frances Miley, University of New South Wales, Australian Defence Force Academy
Dr Jennifer Schneider, University of Newcastle
Teresa Stone, University of Newcastle
Yolanda Surjan, University of Newcastle
25 November, 2009
Ceiling fires going
through the roof
Homeowners have been urged to check their ceiling insulation is properly installed following a high number of insulation related fired over the past three weeks.Minister for Emergency Services, Steve Whan said 15 fires involving ceiling insulation had occurred recently, bringing the total number for the year to 49, compared to 25 in 2008.
Mr Whan said the NSW Fire Brigades’s Fire Investigation Unit was tracking and monitoring the number of ceiling fires on a daily basis.
He said the Unit noted the origin, location and type of insulation involved in the fire.
“All of the information is shared with the NSW Office of Fair Trading,” Mr Whan said.
He said it was vital for ceiling insulation and electrical equipment to be installed correctly.
“Many of the ceiling fires we have seen in recent weeks have been caused by ceiling insulation coming into contact with heat sources such as downlights and exhaust fans,” Mr Whan said.
“Check that heat sources located in the roof cavity, like halogen downlights, chimney flues and electric fans, are not covered over and have sufficient space around them to avoid overheating.
“The insulation must be either fixed in place or have a cover fixed over the heat source to ensure the air space.”
Mr Whan reminded homeowners to use licensed tradespeople to install electrical fittings such as lights.
NSWFB Commissioner Greg Mullins said smoke alarms may not be activated by a fire in the ceiling.
“People need to be aware that fires can occur in the roof and a smoke alarm may not alert you until the fire is well advanced,” Commissioner Mullins said.
“To avoid these potentially deadly situations, it is vital that ceiling insulation and all electrical fittings are installed and maintained properly.”
25 November, 2009
Fair Trading tips
are Christmas gift
The Department of Fair Trading has released a list of hassle-free Christmas shopping tips to help consumers survive the “silly season.”Minister for Fair Trading, Virginia Judge said the list reminded people not to blow their budget or overspend on their credit cards.
Ms Judge said the tips had been produced in six languages, English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Arabic, Hindi and Korean.
“They cover a range of issues including buying presents online, avoiding credit card debt and returning unwanted Christmas gifts,” Ms Judge said.
“Christmas is a great time of the year but it can also be a danger period for many consumers.”
She urged consumers to do their homework before doing their Christmas shopping.
“It’s important that consumers understand their rights and responsibilities before they purchase Christmas presents,” Ms Judge said.
“You don’t want your holiday break to be ruined by a dodgy deal or an expensive gift you can’t return.
“Remember to shop around and compare prices before signing on the dotted line.”
She reminded consumers to keep their receipts in case they needed to get their money back and to “spend wisely” to avoid paying off Christmas debts in the new year.
Ms Judge suggested shoppers:
- Start a Christmas saving plan early, set a realistic budget and stick to it
- Shop around and compare prices
- Keep receipts in a safe place
- Check the seller’s refund and warranty policy before buying
- Use only reputable sellers and sites when shopping online
- Beware of scams
- Ensure toys were appropriate and safe for children
A complete list of tips was available from www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au
25 November, 2009
Indigenous principals
go to head of class
The number of Indigenous school principals is expected to increase following a funding boost to encourage leadership and teacher quality among Aboriginal teachers.Minister for Education, Verity Firth said while the Department of Education employed 560 Aboriginal teachers, only 24 were school principals.
“This ($100,000) funding will help more of them become leaders and hopefully inspire their students into the teaching profession,” Ms Firth said.
“Research shows that role models in schools have a positive effect on student participation and behaviour of Aboriginal students.”
Premier, Nathan Rees said $3.4 million in funding would also be provided to deliver tutoring services to Aboriginal primary school students in a bid to improve literacy and numeracy skills.
“While NSW students lead the nation in most categories of literacy and numeracy, only 80 per cent of Aboriginal children meet the minimum standards,” Mr Rees said.
“These kids deserve the same opportunities as everyone else in their classroom.”
He said providing Indigenous children with one-on-one tutoring by top literacy and numeracy teachers would give them “the tools they need to reach their full potential.”
Mr Rees and Ms Firth visited La Perouse Public School to demonstrate their commitment to improving literacy and numeracy skills for Aboriginal students.
“Up to 75 percent of the kids at La Perouse Public School are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and those that need it will now have access to this program,” Mr Rees said.
25 November, 2009
Consumer booklet
to teach students
A new booklet to help international students understand their rights and responsibilities as consumers has been released by the Department of Fair Trading.Minister for Fair Trading, Virginia Judge said the publication would boost consumer protection for international students and was available in 30 languages.
Ms Judge said there were more than 500,000 international students in Australia and over 200,000 in NSW.
“Unfortunately, many of them are disadvantaged in the marketplace because they do not understand their rights and responsibilities,” Ms Judge said.
“This may be due to different practices and regulations in their native countries, language barriers, or simply because they don’t know where to get help when things go wrong.
“In many cases, they may face problems simply because they are not equipped with enough information.”
She said the Consumer Guide For International Students was designed to teach students how to get a fair go when buying goods and services.
“It covers topics such as shopping and refunds, mobile phones, buying a car, renting, travel, gym memberships, avoiding scams and how to contact Fair Trading,” Ms Judge said.
“It will be an important tool in helping them navigate and survive the marketplace.”
She said the booklet was the most recent initiative in the Government’s bid to enhance consumer protection for international students by providing accessible, appropriate and practical information.
“Earlier this year we produced the Fair Trading What Can We Do For You brochure in 30 different languages,” Ms Judge said.
“I urge everyone to make use of these resources so they know what to do, and who to turn to, when things go wrong.”
Over 50,000 copies of the guide are to be distributed to universities, TAFEs and other educational institutions.
25 November, 2009
Jail training scheme
opens doors for pups
The successful ‘Justice Pups’ program which encourages young people in custody to train puppies to become assistance dogs for people with disabilities, has been expanded.The program was the first of its kind in the world, and was originally introduced at Frank Baxter Juvenile Justice Centre in Gosford earlier this year.
The program was officially launched at the Riverina Juvenile Justice Centre by the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Graham West.
Mr West said the partnership between the Government and Assistance Dogs Australia had been so successful the program was being expanded.
He said two ‘justice pups’ would be trained at the Riverina Centre, and had been named ‘River’ and ‘Rina’.
“Four detainees have been selected as suitable for the program, and centre staff and a group of detainees built the kennels for the pups,” Mr West said.
“The puppies will be at the centre for around 16 – 18 months, then will return to the Assistance Dogs Australia’s National Training Centre in Sydney for intensive training.
“When this is complete, they will be placed with disabled recipients.”
He said Assistance Dogs Australia is a not-for-profit organisation that runs similar programs to Justice Pups in NSW and Queensland adult prisons, and has trained more than 90 dogs across Australia.
“The Justice Pups program is a win-win,” Mr West said.
“Young offenders develop skills that may assist in their rehabilitation such as improved communication and team work. The puppies become assistance dogs, and the recipients gain much needed assistance and companionship.
“The Justice Pups program also enables young people in custody to improve their self-esteem and develop a sense of responsibility.”
25 November, 2009
New planning tool
off drawing board
A new tool to help guide sustainability and “green development” when planning new suburbs has been released by the Minister for Planning, Kristina Keneally.Ms Keneally said the tool, PRECINX, would make the streets, homes and buildings of Sydney more environmentally sustainable.
She said it would inform developers of the most sustainable way to build a housing estate in a specific location, factoring in the local geography and climate.
“Many more significant sustainability gains can be achieved if you work across suburbs rather than house by house or building by building, particularly when major infrastructure is involved,” Ms Keneally said.
“PRECINX uses real performance data to predict the sustainability of new developments, bringing ways to achieve sustainable but also affordable housing to the forefront of neighbourhood planning.”
Director of Sustainability at development corporation Landcom, Stephen Driscoll, said PRECINX was developed to help promote environmentally sustainable outcomes in the development industry.
Mr Driscoll said the tool assessed the environmental, economic and social performance of large-scale projects.
“It looks across suburbs at six inter-related input modules - onsite energy, embodied carbon dioxide (CO2), potable water, stormwater, housing diversity and transport,” Mr Driscoll said.
He said the input modules fed into four key performance indicators: greenhouse gases (tonnes CO2/year), potable water (kL H2O/year), total affordability ($/week) and vehicle hours travelled (hours/week).
Ms Keneally said Landcom would be piloting the program at all new developments, with a longer-term view to making the software more widely available with private sector developers and Public Agencies.
She said PRECINX followed the Government’s BASIX program, which was designed to make individual new houses more sustainable.
“PRECINX, the next step, has potential to increase these sustainability achievements exponentially,” she said.
25 November, 2009
State joins Federal IR scheme
The State Government has announced it will refer its workplace relations powers in relation to the private sector to the Commonwealth.
NSW joins Victoria, South Australia, Queensland and Tasmania in announcing the reform.
The change is expected to help achieve a national workplace relations system and end the overlap and duplication of State and Federal systems.
Lobbyists face deadline
Lobbyists have been urged to make a decision about whether they want to remain on Government boards or remain a lobbyist before the end of this week (27 November).
Premier, Nathan Rees said they could remain as lobbyists if they resigned from public boards or committees because while they had a legitimate role to play outside Government, they had “no place inside it.”
He said the crackdown was aimed at increasing the openness of Government and that the Department of Premier and Cabinet had informed all lobbyists of the deadline.
Wind farm launched
The wind farm that will power the Sydney Desalination Plant at Kurnell has been officially opened.
Capital Wind Farm at Bungendore in the State’s south will begin powering the plant from this summer, with excess power generated expected to be sold to other customers on the open market.
The wind farm has 67 turbines and will increase the amount of wind energy produced in NSW by over 700 per cent.
Parklands calendar out
Centennial Parklands has released a calendar for 2010 just in time for Christmas.
The calendar features 13 images of the Parklands and is available from the Visitor Information Counter for $12.50.
All proceeds from the sales go back into the management and maintenance of the Parklands.
Child protection move
A new initiative to improve child protection work in Aboriginal Communities is to commence in 2010 and be based on a similar Victorian program, Lakidjeka.
This model is part of the Government’s Keep Them Safe plan and responds to a recommendation made in the Wood Special Commission of Inquiry into Child Protection Services in NSW.
The State has committed $1 million over three years to consult, develop a new model and implement it in one or two communities in the second half of 2010.
This service is to be run by an Aboriginal NGO following a tender process.
Ageing committee meets
The Ministerial Advisory Committee on Ageing has met in Sydney to discuss employment and retention strategies for older workers.
The Department of Human Services, Ageing, Disability and Home Care’s roundtable drew on the experiences of employers and employer groups with a proven record of maintaining older people who wanted to continue working.
The Committee is expected to advise the Government on flexible strategies to help older people remain at work.
Children’s book on sale
A book commemorating 20 years of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child has been coordinated by NSW Children’s Guardian with support from Children’s Commissioners and Guardians from all other Australian States.
How Australian Kids See the World includes artwork from over 70 children of all ages demonstrating how they view the world and a summary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The bookis on sale for $20 and available at www.napcan.org.au, with proceeds going to the National Association for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect.
Venues restricted
Restrictions aimed at combating alcohol driven assaults have been removed from 25 venues after their assault rates fell below the program’s threshold.
The restrictions were originally imposed on 48venues across the State in December 2008, and have seen success with alcohol-related assaults and glassing attacks “falling dramatically.”
The restrictions will be imposed on 66 additional venues.
Christmas comes to Sydney
The City of Sydney has launched its Christmas festivities program which includes Australian themed decorations and a free Children’s Concert in Martin Place on 26 November.
The Council said it was committed to a “sustainable Christmas” and had used energy efficient materials, re-used decorations and implemented recycling initiatives.
A concert will be held at Elizabeth Bay on 28 November and is to include the NSW
Water Police and Santa, who will arrive by boat.
Apology pictures shown
Photos of Prime Minister Kevin Rudd’s apology to the Stolen Generations have been displayed at NSW Parliament House.
The exhibition, Sorry – More than a word ran until 24 November and was previously at Parliament House in Canberra where it attracted over 200,000 visitors.
Mr Rudd apologised to Aboriginal members of the Stolen Generations in February 2008.
18 November, 2009
Web contest to net
PS information
A competition to discover innovative ways to improve public use of Government information and services has been launched by the Minister for Commerce and Science and Medical Research, Jodi McKay.Ms McKay encouraged web developers, school students and members of the public to enter the apps4nsw competition.
She said over 400 Government data sets were available at www.data.nsw.gov.au, including health, crime and road accident statistics, threatened species data and storm tracking information.
“Exciting ideas and applications that repackage this data and make it even more accessible to the NSW community can now be submitted,” Ms McKay said.
“Apps4nsw is a fantastic competition and there are a range of prizes on offer for anyone who has a great idea for an exciting application and can produce ‘launch ready’ software apps.”
She said the aim of apps4nsw was to encourage the State’s most creative thinkers to put Government information and services into the hands the public via the internet or mobile devices.
“Information and communications technology is now the backbone of Government service delivery, with everything from licence renewals, medical imagery and connected classrooms available online,” Ms McKay said.
She said the competition judges would look at criteria such as the usefulness of proposed applications and interface design, quality of the application, originality and its potential as an ongoing, reusable resource.
“Entries close on 29 January 2010 and winners will be announced on 24 February
2010,” Ms McKay said.
Further information on the competition was available from www.information.nsw.gov.au
18 November, 2009
ICAC plugs into
stronger powers
The Independent Commission Against Corruption is to gain greater powers to allow it to investigate matters in full. Premier, Nathan Rees said the Independent Commission Against Corruption Act would be amended to allow the ICAC to make a full investigation into audio recordings allegedly made illegally by Sydney Property Developer, Michael McGurk.
Mr McGurk was shot as he arrived home in September 2009, but before his death had claimed he had tapes revealing evidence of bribery.
Mr Rees said the ICAC had requested the changes be made to the legislation.
“We will introduce the changes to Parliament to ensure that the ICAC is able to use material that may have been recorded in breach of the Surveillance Devices Act 2007,” he said.
“The amendment will only allow the ICAC to use the recordings in the context of a corruption investigation and it will continue to remain illegal for someone to make unlawful recordings in the first place.”
Mr Rees said he wanted the ICAC to have all the powers it needed to fully investigate all matters.
Former Commissioner of ICAC, Jerrold Cripps, whose five year term ended earlier this month, said he believed the relevance of the ICAC had increased over the past 20 years.
“However, it is important to remember that the Commission needs to be able to maintain its independence to continue to function to its full capacity, and to invoke the extraordinary powers it has without fear of prejudice drawn from agenda-driven external commentators,” Mr Cripps said.
“Those making comments about how the Commission should be using its powers without considering, or ignoring, the reality of the situation do not account for the fact that the Commission must be very stringent about how it does invoke its powers.”
18 November, 2009
School survey gives
top class result
A survey conducted by the Department of Education and Training has revealed 90 per cent of parents are in favour of the National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy, NAPLAN.Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth said the survey found 82 per cent of respondents thought feedback provided in the NAPLAN report was useful and helped them identify areas in which their children could need additional help.
Ms Firth said the voluntary survey had been conducted as part of the NAPLAN information website which was launched late last month.
“Parents are telling us they are happy with the level of information we are providing to them and that the NAPLAN tests are extremely useful,” Ms Firth said.
“So far the response has been really positive and we’re always looking for constructive feedback to further improve the quality of information we give to parents.”
She encouraged parents to visit the website to learn more about their child’s report and to register their feedback.
Ms Firth said the NAPLAN website was launched to provide parents with information about the NAPLAN tests, including links to sample reports and past test materials.
She said the survey also found 92 per cent of respondents thought it was useful to have the school average on the NAPLAN report and had discussed it with their child.
The majority of parents though the report was helpful and easy to understand.
Sixty-four per cent of respondents said their child’s NAPLAN report helped them learn more about the quality of education being provided by their child’s school.
Ms Firth said over 340,000 NSW students in Years three, five, seven and nine sat the test and the NAPLAN website could be accessed at www.naplanforparentsnsw.com.au
18 November, 2009
Uni course to tame
‘wicked problems’
The University of Western Australia is offering courses in a new field – Integrated Human Studies – which will have particular relevance to public service.Professor Neville Bruce from the University developed the courses due to his dissatisfaction with the way tertiary institutions were responding to the world’s problems.
Professor Bruce said Integrated Human Studies directly addressed 21st century challenges.
He said he believed science and technology had contributed rapidly to human development in the 20th century, but that their effects had ruinous consequences.
“Massive, complex problems like resource depletion, climate change, poverty and inequity threaten the very survival of humans and the planet – and many universities continue to deliver the same old discipline-based or vocationally focused education,” Professor Bruce said.
Professor Graeme Martin, also of UWA, said Integrated Human Studies delivered a transdisciplinary perspective and methodologies that drew on science, the arts, humanities, law and economics.
“We get some of the brightest minds in the country, and they come in wanting to change the world – and we teach them maths,” Professor Martin said.
“Of course the world needs mathematicians, but if you want to change the world and address complex problems, you need broad understandings, and a sense of how your disciplinary specialty fits in with others.”
He said the new course drew on a range of subject areas to consider local and global issues and “wicked problems” that defied narrow analysis.
Professor Bruce said the course’s starting point was the idea that in order to consider human futures, it was necessary to understand human nature and culture, evolutionary and historical origins and value and belief systems.
He said it was also imperative to understand the current status of humans on
Earth.
“Australia needs to formulate policies relating to immigration, welfare, housing, land management and more,” he said.
“Policy makers need to understand the global issues and pressures, and leaders and voters all need to make informed decisions.”
Professor Bruce pointed to the Australian Public Service Commission (APSC), which recognised the need for a different approach to solving complex policy problems known as “wicked problems.”
He said former Australian Public Service Commissioner Lynelle Briggs said wicked problems “require thinking that is capable of grasping the big picture, including the interrelationships among the full range of causal factors underlying them.”
Ms Briggs said they often required broader, more collaborative and innovative approaches.
Professor Bruce said the curriculum design team at UWA’s Centre for Integrated Human Studies had built these skills into their course content and delivery.
More information about the course could be accessed at www.ihs.uwa.edu.au
18 November, 2009
Electoral Office
rolls out new roll
A “smart” electoral roll that will automatically register new voters has been proposed for NSW as a way of strengthening the State’s democracy.Premier, Nathan Rees said the new roll would revolutionise the way citizens registered to vote and would update changes for those already enrolled.
“Under the proposed legislative changes, as soon as someone turns 18 they will automatically be put on the NSW electoral roll,” Mr Rees said.
“These changes will ensure people with busy lives, young people and those who move to NSW are not disenfranchised by the current rules.”
He said Government Agencies such as the Roads and Traffic Authority and the Board of Studies would provide information to the Electoral Commission to enable it to keep the rolls up-to-date.
“This is an extension of powers already held by the NSW Electoral Commission and safeguards will be put in place including banning using information for secondary purposes and fines for misuse,” he said.
“Voters will also continue to have the option to remove their address from the public roll for personal safety reasons.”
Mr Rees said under the changes voters could register up to and including on Election Day.
“Recent figures found that only 90.7 percent of eligible NSW voters are enrolled to vote,” he said.
“We will work with the Electoral Commissioner on the implementation of these measures to deliver a more modern and efficient system.”
Mr Rees said the changes came about following a report by the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters on the 2007 State Election.
The smart roll is expected to be up and running for the 2011 election and will cut down the need for unnecessary paperwork and offer new options for the exchange of information between Federal and State rolls.
18 November, 2009
Homeless study has
no fixed address
An Ombudsman’s report into an interagency agreement aimed at preventing people with mental illnesses from becoming homeless has found the initiative to be ineffective and failing to achieve results.Ombudsman, Bruce Barbour investigated the Joint Guarantee of Service for People with Mental Health Problems and Disorders Living in Aboriginal, Community and Public Housing (JGOS) agreement, saying its aim was to help people with mental illnesses access and sustain social housing.
Mr Barbour said reforms needed to be made to the agreement between Housing NSW and the Department of Health to improve the effectiveness of the initiative.
“While we found evidence of good work to implement the JGOS principles in some areas and a large number of committed individuals who are passionate about improving the social outcomes of people living with mental illness, we found little evidence to demonstrate that the JGOS is achieving systemic improvements and were unable to conclude that the overall implementation of the JGOS has been effective,” he said.
“Our investigation revealed that the implementation of the JGOS has been patchy and inconsistent.”
Mr Barbour said his office had identified several weaknesses in the JGOS agreement and governance arrangements including inconsistencies and a lack of accountability mechanisms and systems to support effective implementation.
“We identified four key areas that would need to be addressed should the Agencies decide to maintain the JGOS: the JGOS agreement and resources; the practical implementation of the JGOS; systemic issues that have impacted on implementation; and the JGOS governance and accountability arrangements.”
Mr Barbour said reform was urgently needed in discharge planning for mentally ill people leaving hospital, information exchange systems and the availability of supported accommodation for people with a mental illness and other complex needs.
“People with a mental illness are particularly vulnerable after being discharged from hospital”, he said.
“Poor communication and planning can result in individuals becoming homeless when they are entitled to support.”
Mr Barbour said confusion on the part of workers about when they could share information about clients could lead to no information being shared which could place the wellbeing of individuals at risk.
“There needs to be a simple and practical system in place that enables Agencies to exchange information about vulnerable people when necessary for their safety or welfare,” he said.
Mr Barbour said there was a shortage of supported accommodation for people with a mental illness who needed extra help to live independently.
“While the evidence shows that programs like HASI (Housing Accommodation Support Initiative) work there are simply not enough places to accommodate the level of need,” he said.
“It is critical that policies and programs aimed at assisting vulnerable people are effective. Otherwise, individuals can – and too often do – fall through the cracks.”
The full text of the Ombudsman’s report could be accessed at www.ombo.nsw.gov.au
18 November, 2009
Energy overhaul for
office buildings
A national scheme to boost the energy efficiency of commercial and Government-owned office buildings has been announced by the Federal Minister for the Environment, Peter Garrett.Mr Garrett said from the second half of 2010 building owners would be required to provide up-to-date energy efficiency information when selling or leasing space covering over 2,000 square metres.
“This means all parties - the building owner and potential buyers or tenants - will have access to consistent, credible and meaningful information about a building’s energy efficiency and make informed decisions when they buy or rent office space,” he said.
“Greener offices are not only more comfortable to work in, they can also boost productivity, bring down sick leave, support green building industry jobs and have the potential to deliver savings of 20 to 40 percent on energy bills.”
Mr Garrett said the disclosure scheme would encourage building owners to invest in energy efficient upgrades.
He said the scheme would require owners to disclose a valid Building Energy Efficiency Certificate, including a National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS) Energy base building star rating.
He said an assessment of the lighting energy efficiency of tenancies and some suggestions on how to improve the building’s energy efficiency would also be included.
He said owners who did not comply would risk a fine or prosecution.
“If you are planning on selling or leasing office space, the first NABERS Energy base building star rating can take time,” Mr Garrett said.
“I encourage building owners to start now to prepare for the introduction of this measure.”
Ministers for Energy at the Federal, State and Territory levels recently approved the parameters of the new scheme and Commonwealth legislation was currently being developed.
Mr Garrett said businesses would be informed about the new rules through upcoming seminars to be hosted by the Department of the Environment and the Property Council of Australia.
More information was available from www.environment.gov.au
18 November, 2009
Plain sailing for new
ferries charter
A new Customer Service Charter for Sydney Ferries has been announced to help improve service in areas identified as important by passengers.Minister for Transport, David Campbell unveiled the Charter, saying it was similar to the Charter recently implemented for the CityRail Network.
Mr Campbell said he hoped similar improvements to those seen following the implementation of the City Rail Charter would be made for ferry passengers
“The Charter is another way the Government is delivering better front line services for passengers across our public transport network,” Mr Campbell said.
“The Customer Service Charter sets out clear targets that Sydney Ferries will be required to meet, in specific areas that have been identified by passengers.”
He said passengers had pinpointed eight areas for improvement: safety; reliability; the provision of fast and accurate information; clean and comfortable ferries; easy ticket access; clean and comfortable wharves; integrated services and ticketing; and access for everyone.
He said Sydney Ferries would report on its progress each quarter.
“Sydney Ferries has come a long way in recent months towards consistent improvement in safety and steady improvement in vessel availability and reliability of the vessel fleet,” he said.
“But there is always more to do and that’s why we’re introducing a Customer Charter to raise standards further.”
Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport, David Borger said the new Parramatta River Express service was due to commence on 23 November 2009.
Mr Borger said the service would provide commuters in the Parramatta region with a ferry service during the morning and evening peak periods.
The Sydney Ferries Customer Service Charter was available from www.sydneyferries.info and the new timetable was available from www.131500.com.au
18 November, 2009
Treasury Circular
to pay dividends
Treasury has released a revised and refined edition of the Financial Distributions Policy to promote greater consistency in implementing the distribution policy and address changes in accounting standards.In an accompanying Circular, the Secretary of NSW Treasury, Michael Schur says the Financial Distributions Policy applied to all Government businesses, including State owned corporations, and aimed to ensure the Government received an appropriate return on its equity investment in its businesses.
Mr Schur said the returns were received in the form of dividend payments or as capital repayments.
“This edition of the Financial Distributions Policy (TPP09-6) will supersede and withdraw the previous version (TPP02-3) from 1 July 2010,” Mr Schur said.
“TPP02-3 will continue to apply until 30 June 2010.”
He said the revised policy included using a dividend payout ratio of 70 per cent of post tax profit as a standard reference point.
“The target dividend payout ratio for individual Government businesses, however, may vary from the standard reference point, based on case-by-case consideration of underlying capital structure and future cash flow requirements including a contingency for financial flexibility,” Mr Schur said.
“Businesses with the financial capacity to pay dividends based on payout ratios above 70 per cent are expected to do so.
He said exemptions would be permitted in “exceptional circumstances.”
The other major feature outlined by Mr Schur was a description of non-cash items that should be excluded from the profits distributed to shareholders.
Mr Schur said the Circular, TC 09/11, should be read in conjunction with Treasury Circular 09/01, Accounting for Superannuation, which states that superannuation actuarial gains and losses should be recognised outside profit and loss statements.
Further information on the Financial Distribution Policy, and the Circular are available from www.treasury.nsw.gov.au
18 November, 2009
Rail regulator on
wrong platform
The Australian Transport Council’s decision to replace State-based rail watchdogs with a single national regulator in Adelaide has been opposed by the NSW Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) who want the rail regulator to be situated in Sydney.President of the RTBU, Alex Claassens said the most sensible place to have a national rail regulator was Sydney and that basing it in Adelaide would pose a threat to public safety.
“By abolishing all State regulators and establishing one single watchdog in Adelaide, we risk a situation where our rail regulator will be out of sight and out of mind,” Mr Claassens said.
“It will only be a matter of time before cracks start to form and mistakes are made.
“Ultimately this decision could put the safety of passengers and the safety of rail workers at risk.”
He said the Union welcomed any reforms to the way the rail industry was regulated, but that a strong watchdog based in Sydney was needed if Governments were serious about national safety standards.
“It has taken over six years for the NSW Government to establish a world class rail regulator following the tragedy in Waterfall, and build up a level of expertise and knowledge required to regulate the industry,” Mr Claassens said.
“It’s therefore foolish to locate the new regulator well away from the resources and expertise it needs to be effective. “
He said the majority of passenger and freight train movements occurred in the Eastern States and that it would be “pointless” to locate Australia’s only rail safety watchdog in South Australia.
“The RTBU has a real concern about the ability of the new regulator to monitor the rail industry and implement safety standards when it is isolated from the bulk of rail activity in Australia,” Mr Claassens said.
He doubted the new regulator would have the ability to attract the know-how and resources required to keep the national rail industry honest.
“States with the most extensive rail systems are naturally going to have the people, technology, skills and resources to regulate the industry effectively,” Mr Claassens said.
18 November, 2009
Choppers sent in
to tame sharks
Increased protection from sharks has been announced for beachgoers this summer with trial helicopter patrols planned for beaches. Former Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Macdonald said the trial would supplement the existing beach meshing program and that Expressions of Interest from companies interested in conducting the surveillance were being sought.
The Minister said the 2006 Shark Summit found fixed-wing aerial patrols would be almost useless for shark surveillance but that the Government was willing to trial helicopter patrols during busy periods such as Boxing Day and Australia Day.
“Helicopters have the benefit over fixed wing aircraft in that they can actually hover over a specific spot if needed,” Mr Macdonald said.
“The Government has a successful beach meshing program in place – which has seen one fatal shark attack on a meshed beach in 70 years.”
He said shark mesh would continue to be the focus of the shark safety campaign but that aerial patrols would be introduced on a trial basis.
“This proposed trial is part of ongoing measures being introduced to help make beach-goers safer this summer.”
The Minister said the successful company would have to provide timely and detailed records of shark sightings to the Government and surf life saving organisations such as Surf Life Saving NSW.
He said the trial was expected to operate every weekend and each public holiday between 19 December 2009 and 10 January 2010.
“Many families traditionally flock to our coastlines over the summer, and the helicopter trial is designed to coincide with this peak time,” he said.
“Helicopter trials will have a minimal beneficial effect but the Government has a duty to do all we can to protect beachgoers – however, there will never be 100 per cent guarantees when swimming in our oceans,” he said.
Expressions of interest in providing the service close on 3 December 2009, with further information available from www.tenders.nsw.gov.au
18 November, 2009
Workplace watchdog
warns new starters
The Commonwealth’s Fair Work Ombudsman has encouraged school-leavers to be aware of their workplace rights if they decide to take jobs over the summer holidays.The Ombudsman, Nicholas Wilson, said knowledge was the best defence to ensure young workers were not ripped off.
“When you’ve just left school, every dollar counts,” Mr Wilson said.
“Often the excitement of the first pay packet and a lack of understanding of the laws that protect them can leave young workers vulnerable to unacceptable workplace practices.”
He said there were several facts young workers should be aware of, for instance that every worker should receive a payslip and unpaid trial work was generally against the law.
He said having money deducted from wages if the cash register was short was also against the law.
“Entering the workforce should be a positive experience, and we’re here to help empower young people to ensure that is the case,” Mr Wilson said.
“It’s as simple as picking up the phone and calling our national Infoline on 13 13 94 to speak with one of our Fair Work advisers.”
He suggested keeping a work diary to record shifts and pay, noting the start and finishing time, meal breaks and the names of supervisors.
“A record of events such as this can be extremely helpful in resolving issues that may arise down the track,” Mr Wilson said.
He said over the next month his office would distribute tens of thousands of post-cards to areas populated by young people, including cafés, cinemas and shopping centres, alerting students to their workplace rights.
Last year the Fair Work Ombudsman audited 400 businesses primarily employing young workers and recouped $634,000 for 1,700 underpaid young employees.
Further information for school-leavers was available from www.fairwork.gov.au
18 November, 2009
Writing on the wall
for graffiti artists
A range of tough new measures to wipe out graffiti across the State have been announced by the Premier, Nathan Rees.Mr Rees said the initiatives took a “hardline” approach to graffiti vandals who thought they could “operate above the law.”
“Today, I’m putting graffiti vandals on notice – we have you in our sights and the community, police and business are right behind us,” Mr Rees said.
“Graffiti is not a victimless crime – it makes people feel unsafe, eats away at the pride people have for their towns and suburbs and this is simply not on.”
He said under the initiatives, all people involved in planning new State Government buildings would have to take graffiti and crime prevention measures into consideration.
He said the measures also included a Graffiti Action Day that would see an annual community-based clean up partnership with Keep Australia Beautiful that would “empower” communities to take charge and make a difference.
“The community is fed up with their streets being defaced by senseless vandals who think they can operate above the law,” Mr Rees said.
He said the action day would occur each year on the first Sunday in May from 2010.
Chief Executive of Keep Australia Beautiful, Peter McLean said everyone could get involved in the Graffiti Action Day including Councils, schools, businesses, community groups, and individuals.
“It is an important opportunity to raise awareness of how we can collectively remove graffiti,” Mr McLean said.
Mr Rees said the new measures meant it would also be illegal for a juvenile to have a spray can in their possession unless they had a legitimate reason.
“If they cannot prove to Police that they need the spray can for legitimate reasons like school or work they will face fines of up to $1,100 and even 6 months jail in some cases,” Mr Rees said.
He said penalties for graffiti vandalism would be doubled to 12 months in prison, more vandals would be ordered to clean up graffiti instead of paying fines, and a $1 million annual grants program would be funded to implement anti-graffiti designs in graffiti hotspots.
“These changes build on the reforms that began earlier this year which enable police and other officers to issue penalties to retailers for selling spray paint to young people,” Mr Rees said.
18 November, 2009
New parents’ kit is
Legal Aid baby
An information kit outlining what steps to take if parenting orders are not being followed has been released by Legal Aid NSW.Director of Family Law at Legal Aid NSW, Kylie Beckhouse said the kit provided a step by step guide that could be used by parents, grandparents and others who were parties to a parenting order.
Ms Beckhouse said the kit included information on options about what to do when parenting orders were breached, how to enforce parenting orders and what people could expect if they were accused of breaching parenting orders.
She said it also provided practical information on what to do before going to Court, the Court process and what to include in Court documents.
“Parenting orders about children can break down for lots of reasons, such as parents disobeying orders or circumstances such as illness or a new job making the original Court orders unworkable,” Ms Beckhouse said.
“For the sake of the children, it is important that people in this situation obtain information early, to help them get their parenting orders back on track.”
She said Legal Aid NSW encouraged parents to use family mediation services to help them negotiate when Court orders were not working.
“In the experience of Legal Aid lawyers, if these matters go back to the Courts, the Court’s first priority is to ensure that parenting orders will work in the best interest of the children, rather than to punish parties or impose a penalty,” Ms Beckhouse said.
She said common Court orders included making up time with children, attending parenting courses or changing the orders to improve their efficiency.
Ms Beckhouse said limited funding provided by the Federal Government meant Legal Aid NSW was unable to provide legal representation for enforcement of parenting orders. “This kit helps to fill that gap,” she said.
“Although the general information in these kits cannot replace the professional representation of lawyers, it will be of considerable assistance to unrepresented litigants.”
The kit, My ex-partner isn’t following the court orders about our children... what can I do? could be ordered online at www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au
18 November, 2009
Sun shines on
solar rebate
A new scheme that will pay households with solar panels for all the energy they generate has been announced by the Premier, Nathan Rees.Mr Rees intervened in the NSW Solar Bonus Scheme to enable households to be paid for every single kilowatt hour of energy they generate rather than being paid only for what they don’t use.
He said the ‘gross’ Feed-in Tariff would commence on 1 January 2010 and deliver the highest payments to NSW families compared to elsewhere in Australia.
“Our gross payment system will deliver higher paybacks to families and makes NSW national leaders in the clean energy revolution,” Mr Rees said.
“These changes will see an average family paid around $1,496 a year. That’s a 62 per cent increase on the previous scheme and means households can pay off their investment in solar panels in around eight years.”
He said the scheme helped create certainty and would allow homeowners to know upfront how much they would be paid for their energy production.
Mr Rees said households with solar panels would be paid 60 cents per kilowatt hour, with an average household system generating around 2,500 kilowatt hours annually.
The scheme will have a cap on the size of home solar systems of 10 kilowatts, which would generate around 16,700 kilowatt hours and pay almost $10,000 a year.
The standard system is 1.5 kilowatts.
Mr Rees said wind turbines up to 10 kilowatts would also be eligible to be paid the Feed-in Tariff.
He said the tariff would be payable to small retail customers whose electricity consumption did not exceed 160 megawatt-hours of electricity per annum.
A review of the scheme was conducted by the Ministerial portfolio of Climate Change, Environment and Energy.
The Minister, John Robertson has introduced legislation for the scheme into Parliament to allow the changes to come into effect next year.
“Transitional arrangements will also be made for families already receiving a feed-in-tariff,” Mr Robertson said.
The scheme is proposed to run for seven years and estimates suggest around 60,000 NSW households would be likely to install solar panels during this time.
18 November, 2009
Consumer guide to
pay off for buyers
A new consumer guide encouraging consumers to pay less and save more has been launched by the Minister for Fair Trading, Virginia Judge.Ms Judge said the guide, Smart Consumer Survival Tips, urged consumers to shop around and compare prices to help them recognise a good deal and become “smart consumers.”
“The guide gives survival tips on how to deal with shopping; warranties and refunds; mobile phones; money and credit; cars, bikes and boats; fitness; renting; home building and renovating; buying or selling a home; travel and scams,” she said.
Ms Judge also announced the results of the Confident and Connected: NSW Youth Consumer Survey, which was conducted by Quantum Market Research on behalf of NSW Fair Trading during August 2009.
She said the survey showed nearly 90 per cent of young people had their own mobile phone and that one in five youths aged 15 to 17 were having trouble paying their phone bills.
She said the study gave a “vital insight” into the spending and lifestyle habits of over 1,200 young consumers.
“The survey reveals that the average weekly income for 12 to 20 year olds has increased from $120.60 in 2007 to $142.65 in 2009,” she said.
“Nearly a quarter have asked for a loan from family, friends or financial institutions borrowing an average of $904.
“More than half shop online using their parent’s credit cards or online services such as Paypal.”
Ms Judge said while new technology opened up an exciting world for young consumers, it also increased the risk of them being scammed, with the survey finding three in five youths had received suspicious emails requesting personal information.
“Young people need to become smart consumers from a very early age,” she said.
“It’s important they learn how to recognise and avoid dodgy deals so they don’t end up out of pocket.”
Ms Judge said projects such as Fair Trading’s Money Stuff helped educate young consumers in how to protect themselves from dodgy deals.
The survival guide and survey could be accessed at www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au
18 November, 2009
Cabinet changes
Changes to the NSW Cabinet have been announced by the Premier, Nathan Rees.
Former Minister for Finance and Ports and Waterways, Joe Tripodi and former Minister for Primary Industries, Mineral Resources and State Development, Ian Macdonald offered their resignations from Cabinet following a request from Mr Rees.
Paul McLeay was appointed Minister for Ports and Waterways and Peter Primrose is now the Minister for Regulatory Reform and Mineral Resources.
The new Cabinet is as follows:
- Deputy Premier and Minister for Health - Carmel Tebbutt
- Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Vice President of the Executive Council - John Hatzistergos
- Treasurer - Eric Roozendaal
- Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform and Special Minister of State - John Robertson
- Minister for Regulatory Reform, Minister for Mineral Resources - Peter Primrose
- Minister for Police - Michael Daley
- Minister for Transport, Minister for Illawarra - David Campbell
- Minister for Education and Training - Verity Firth
- Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Infrastructure - Kristina Keneally
- Minister for Lands - Tony Kelly
- Minister for Community Services, Minister for Women - Linda Burney
- Minister for Gaming and Racing, Minister for Sport and Recreation - Kevin Greene
- Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs -
- Paul Lynch
- Minister for Local Government, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health and Cancer) - Barbara Perry
- Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Volunteering, Minister for Youth, Minister Assisting the Premier on Veterans’ Affairs - Graham West
- Minister for Water, Minister for Regional Development - Phil Costa
- Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Citizenship, Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts - Virginia Judge
- Minister for Housing, Minister for Western Sydney, Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport - David Borger
- Minister for Commerce, Minister for Tourism, Minister for the Hunter, Minister for Science and Medical Research - Jodi McKay
- Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Rural Affairs - Steve Whan
- Minister for Ports and Waterways - Paul McLeay
New records website
The NSW State Records Authority has announced a new website dedicated to exploring the history of World War I soldier settlement in NSW.
Over 40,000 returned servicemen and women initially took up the offer of farming land but fewer than half remained on the land fifteen years later.
The website, A land fit for heroes? will explore the ‘forgotten history’ of over 9,000 of those soldiers, and was available from soldiersettlement.records.nsw.gov.au
NRM honour closing soon
Nominations for the McKell Medal for excellence and achievement in natural resource management close on 20 November.
The annual award commemorates the outstanding contribution made to the fields of soil and land conservation by Sir William McKell, Premier of NSW (1941-47) and Governor-General of Australia (1947–53).
The McKell Medal is open to individuals and partnerships and is Natural Resource Management Ministerial Council initiative.
To nominate, visit www.daff.gov.au
Rail link gets go-ahead
Construction of Stage Two of the South West Rail Link is to begin in mid 2010 following an announcement that the Government would invest $1.3 billion in the project.
The new 11.4 kilometre rail line will service the South West Growth Centre and deliver thousands of workers to Parramatta.
The line is expected to be completed by 2016.
Christmas tax fact sheet
The Australian Tax Office has created a fact sheet to help organisations understand the fringe benefits tax rules for the festive season.
The ATO said while staff Christmas parties could attract fringe benefits tax (FBT) there may be exemptions depending on the venue and cost per employee.
It said the two main exemptions to FBT that could apply to Christmas parties are exempt property benefits and exempt minor benefits.
The fact sheet was available at www.ato.gov.au
Reading wins funds
Additional funding for Indigenous primary school children struggling with reading and writing has been announced by the Premier, Nathan Rees.
Mr Rees said the Government would invest $3.4 million to provide two hours a week of personalised tuition by expert teachers to Aboriginal primary school students who needed extra help.
He said the initiative would generate 2,200 jobs for Indigenous Australians and that teachers at schools with high Aboriginal enrolments would receive additional training to help them tailor their teaching approach to the needs of their students.
Money for ribbons
Local Domestic Violence Committees are to receive $59,000 in Government funding to support their While Ribbon Day and the 16 Days of Activism to Stop Violence Against Women initiatives.
Fifty-nine committees will receive $1,000 each to develop projects such as information materials, calendars, forums and media campaigns.
White Ribbon Day will be held on 25 November and the 16 Days campaign will be held from 25 November to10 December to raise raising community awareness of violence against women.
Coin commemorates expedition
The Royal Australian Mint has released the first coins for 2010, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Burke and Wills Expedition from Victoria to Queensland.
The 20 cent and $1 coin designs highlight the beginning and the end of the Burke and Wills expedition.
The 20 cent coin design shows Burke and Wills departing on their journey while the $1 coin shows the sole survivor of the exhibition, John King, resting under the iconic carved dig tree.
Long Tan bursaries announced
Over 5,800 secondary students from 2,328 schools across Australia have been awarded Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Awards.
Students were selected by their schools for contributing to the local community and for their personal development and community spirit.
Students in Years 10, 11 and 12 were recognised with awards of $100, $250 and $500 respectively, along with a certificate of merit.
The Awards have been running since 2006 and were established to encourage leadership and teamwork in school aged students.
11 November, 2009
Delays force water
probe to tread water
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal has “stopped the clock” on its review of 2010 bulk water prices following a request from the NSW Office of Water that it delay its formal submission for three months.Chief Executive of IPART, James Cox told the Office of Water (NOW) that IPART would not continue to work on the price review until a complete submission was received from NOW.
In a letter to the Commissioner of NOW, David Harriss, Mr Cox said IPART would “reset the clock” after receiving the Department’s complete submission and information return.
“As a consequence of your delay IPART and stakeholders will incur additional costs and inconveniences,” Mr Cox wrote.
“These include costs associated with a second round of public hearings, as the hearings for this review will no longer be able to be held in conjunction with those for the State Water review.
“It may also be difficult for IPART and stakeholders to make a comprehensive assessment of the customer impacts of both the proposed State Water and Departmental prices.”
Mr Cox said IPART would be unable to determine new bulk water prices for NOW by the original date of 1 July 2010 due to the delay.
“Prices set by IPART for the period 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010 will continue in nominal terms until such time as a new determination takes effect.”
Commissioner Harriss requested a three month extension for NOW’s submission, proposing it provide it on 2 December 2009 rather than 11 September 2009.
He said “significant institutional changes” were underway at the Commonwealth level that would affect future water management activities and costs over the price determination period.
“The NSW Government is currently in negotiations with the Commonwealth Government on many of these issues,” Commissioner Harriss said.
“However the outcome of these negotiations, and therefore their impacts on NOW’s future costs is not yet clear.
“I believe NOW will be better placed to provide more robust cost estimates when these negotiations are further progressed.”
He said the issues holding up the submission included new Commonwealth water market rules, the NSW contribution to the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, the Basin Plan, the Murray Darling Basin Reform and the establishment of the NSW Office of Water.
Mr Cox also raised concerns over the performance of the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water in providing information to IPART.
He said in the course of the 2005 and 2006 bulk water reviews, IPART raised “significant concerns” regarding the then Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources and the Department of Natural Resources.
“These concerns included matters related to the timely provision of information and the completeness of that information,” Mr Cox said.
He urged the Government to consider the reasons why the Department is unable to provide information by its due date.
11 November, 2009
Medico needling over
flu vaccination
The Chief Health Officer has encouraged NSW residents to get their H1N1 influenza vaccination.Dr Kerry Chant recommended people who planned to travel overseas or who were receiving international guests to make the most of the free Swine Flu vaccine.
“With the holidays approaching, many people will be travelling abroad or having overseas guests,” Dr Chant said.
“It is important to think about getting vaccinated now to protect yourself and your family. It does take time for the vaccine to work so it is best not to leave it to the last minute.”
She said the 1.5 millionth dose of the vaccine had been received by the Government and that around 30,000 doses were being administered every day.
Dr Chant said it was particularly important that pregnant women, who are susceptible to the illness, get immunised.
“Pregnant women remain at risk and are strongly encouraged to get the vaccine as there is no vaccine for children less than six months old,” she said.
“Women in this category can help protect their baby by being vaccinated and also by encouraging people who will be helping to care for their baby to be vaccinated.
“Some of the vaccines available overseas are not recommended for pregnant women, however the vaccine in Australia has been recommended by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation.”
Dr Chant said the vaccine was the best defence against the pandemic flu.
She said any pregnant women, Indigenous Australians and people with underlying chronic medical conditions should consult their doctor immediately if they showed flu symptoms.
Dr Chant said reports from the Northern Hemisphere, which is entering winter, indicate H1N1 pandemic activity is high in many countries.
11 November, 2009
Slow trials
found guilty
New laws aimed at fast tracking lengthy criminal trials have been introduced into Parliament.Attorney General, John Hatzistergos said the trial laws would force lawyers to prepare early and operate more efficiently to speed up trials.
“Trials that run for months on end not only burden the criminal justice system, jurors and the taxpayer, they prolong the distress and anguish of victims of crime,” Mr Hatzistergos said.
“These reforms will go some way to cutting the unnecessary hold ups.”
He said the efficiency laws would reduce the overall length of time between committal and sentence and would allow judges to order case management between parties before the trial; force parties to disclose facts in dispute before the trial; and set up pre-trial conferences for parties to agree on admissible evidence.
Mr Hatzistergos said there had been a number of recent examples where lengthy criminal trials could have been avoided through early preparation and more efficient processes.
“The presentation of unimportant or uncontested evidence can be a significant contributor to unnecessarily long trials,’ Mr Hatzistergos said.
“The new measures seek to address these issues and improve the overall efficiency of the criminal justice system.
“Some measures such as pre-trial case management already exist for complex cases, but are simply not being used enough.”
Mr Hatzistergos said a review conducted in 2008 found the causes of inefficiencies in criminal trials included identifying admissible evidence during trial; the process of informing jurors of their responsibilities; and lengthy questioning.
He said the amendments to the Criminal Procedures Act 1986 (Case Management) would help bring about cultural change in the legal system.
Mr Hatzistergos said NSW Courts led Australia in the timely disposal of criminal cases and that the majority were completed efficiently.
11 November, 2009
Price almost right
in IPART review
A review of the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal’s approach to incentive based regulation has found its current approach effective but that it could benefit from exploring other approaches in the future.The review was commissioned by IPART and conducted by Cambridge Economic Policy Associates to compare the Tribunal’s approach with those taken by other regulatory bodies across Australia and overseas.
The report cautioned against making any changes without firm evidence supporting them.
“IPART’s current approach to regulation has worked relatively effectively over a long period of time, and while it is good practice to review approaches from time to time, it is also appropriate to be somewhat cautious about changing approaches without reasonably clear evidence that any change will lead to an improvement in outcomes,” the report said.
IPART is responsible for determining prices for, and conducting periodic reviews of the pricing policies of, specified Government monopoly services such as electricity, water and public transport.
The report found IPART can determine prices in one of two ways. It can fix the maximum price or establish a methodology for fixing it; or can both fix the maximum price for parts of a monopoly service and establish a methodology for the remaining parts.
“In practice, IPART has adopted some common or standard methods by which it makes its decisions, such as the use of the building block methodology for calculating the revenue requirements of a business or average prices, where appropriate,” it said.
The report said IPART must consider a range of issues when making determinations, such as costs, protection of consumers, the rate of return, price inflation, efficiency, sustainability, the need to promote competition and the standards of quality, reliability and safety.
The report suggested IPART increase consumer involvement in price control reviews; look at new incentives for capital expenditure; and consider using inflation indices other than general or consumer inflation.
“The explicit use of an alternative to general or consumer price inflation indices in determinations is a relatively recent development, but regulators are increasingly taking account of such indices when setting the price cap,” it said.
The report said there were a range of interesting approaches being adopted by regulators world-wide, some of which may have relevance for IPART.
“In a number of cases it is difficult to identify whether recent changes to regulatory approaches, such as menu regulation, have led to improvements in outcomes for customers,” the review said.
“In other cases, such as more consumer engagement in price control reviews, there probably have been improvements in outcomes, but the precise approach to adopt is likely to be case specific.”
The review also noted there was no formal appeal process for parties with concerns about IPART’s decisions.
The report was available from www.ipart.nsw.gov.au
11 November, 2009
Treasurer puts mouth
where money is
The NSW Office of State Revenue is holding $115.2 million in unclaimed money belonging to members of the public.Treasurer, Eric Roozendaal has urged families and businesses to check if they are entitled to any of the “forgotten” money.
Mr Roozendaal said the Office of State Revenue was holding 220,900 items of unclaimed money.
“The NSW Government holds the money until it is claimed by its rightful owners,” he said.
Mr Roozendaal said unclaimed money held by the State could be from deceased estates, dividends, refunds, inactive superannuation accounts and other sources.
He said the funds were eventually sent to the Office of State Revenue to be held until collected, and ranged in value from a $20 share dividend to over $518,000 from a deceased estate.
Over the past 18 months 6,389 claims worth $11.4 million have been paid out.
Mr Roozendaal said while people should check to see if they had any unclaimed money, they should be wary of “money recovery” companies which charge a fee to help people recover unclaimed money they are owed.
“The NSW Government provides this service for free, so be wary of money recovery companies trying to charge you for a service you can access for free,” he said.
“The Government website is free and it’s easy to navigate. It’s your money and you’re entitled to claim it.”
The Office of State Revenue’s website shows the name of the unclaimed money owner, the type and source of the funds and, if provided by the enterprise, the owner’s last known address.
The site could be accessed at www.osr.nsw.gov.au
11 November, 2009
Audit books into
PS super funds
The Auditor General’s Volume Five Report for 2009, which includes comments on Treasury and public financing enterprises, has been released to Parliament.Auditor General, Peter Achterstraat said the Government’s unfunded superannuation liabilities had increased from $17.5 billion in 2007-08 to $28.4 billion in 2008-09.
Mr Achterstraat said the increase was primarily due to a negative return of 10.4 per cent on assets and a decrease in the discount rate used by the Actuary in estimating liabilities.
“Most of this increase related to Public Sector staff in defined benefit schemes where unfunded liabilities increased from $14.9 billion to $19.4 billion,” he said.
He said the Parliamentary Contributory Superannuation Scheme’s unfunded liabilities increased from $88.6 million at 30 June 2008 to $154 million at 30 June 2009 due to lower investment returns.
“Despite the global financial crisis causing significant market disruption, NSW Treasury Corporation raised $10.9 billion during the year ($10.4 billion in 2007-08) from domestic and international debt markets,” he said.
“Loans to Public Sector Agencies increased by $7.6 billion to $37.9 billion at 30 June 2009, largely to fund new infrastructure.”
Mr Achterstraat said the State Debt Recovery Office wrote off 305,770 fines valued at $62.4 million after deeming them ‘not recoverable.’
“On a pleasing note, NSW Public Sector workers’ compensation risk rate premiums continue to fall,” he said.
In his report, Mr Achterstraat said an internal audit function had not been effectively maintained for the Crown Entity during 2008-09 and should be addressed as “a matter of urgency.”
Mr Achterstraat said the Government paid $473 million for claims made against HIH-issued CTP insurance policies up to 30 June 2009 and had received just $168 million in recoveries from HIH liquidators and reinsurers.
The report was available from www.audit.nsw.gov.au
11 November, 2009
Tenancy laws get
new lease on life
Public input into a draft Bill that updates NSW residential tenancy laws has been invited by the Minister for Fair Trading, Virginia Judge.Ms Judge said the draft Residential Tenancies Bill 2009 represented the most significant reform to the State’s tenancy laws in the past 20 years and had been updated to reflect growth within the property and tenancy markets.
“There are more than 644,000 individual leases in the private rental market in NSW, currently regulated by laws that date back to the 1970s and 80s,” she said.
“The Government is determined to get the balance right between the interests of tenants and landlords.”
Ms Judge said the reform package aimed to modernise the legislation and build a framework to protect tenants and offer landlords greater certainty.
She said the draft Bill was the result of a comprehensive review of the tenancy law and urged members of the public to have their say.
“I am keen to have an ongoing conversation with all members of the community on the proposed initiatives,” Ms Judge said.
The Bill proposes increasing the notice period for ‘no grounds’ tenancy terminations from 60 to 90 days and giving landlords more certainty in the Tribunal process; allowing tenants to break leases early without penalty in some situations; provisions to deal with shared housing and co-tenant disputes; and greater flexibility in regards to alterations by tenants.
Ms Judge said Fair Trading had developed a new feedback channel on its website to allow interested parties to lodge comments on the sections of the Bill that interested them most.
“There is also a plain English fact sheet and guide to sections of the Bill, which contains more than 100 amendments, making it easier to navigate,” she said.
“I encourage anyone with an interest in residential tenancy laws to have their say, including Mum and Dad investors, tenants and people thinking of entering the investment property market.
“Given the sheer number and importance of these reforms, I expect the draft Bill to spark a great deal of public debate and a large number of submissions.”
Submissions close on 18 December 2009, with further information available from www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au
11 November, 2009
Disability kit walks
away with award
An information kit for families of children and youths with a disability has won a National Multicultural Marketing Award for its approach to raising awareness of disability services.Minister for Disability Services, Paul Lynch said the kit had been produced for families from Afghanistan, Iraq and Sudan and was available in five languages other than English.
Mr Lynch said the kit, Raising kids together, was produced by the Government in conjunction with the Multicultural Disability Advocacy Association of NSW, NSW Multicultural Health Communication Service and Information and Cultural Exchange.
“The kit has been extremely well received by community groups across NSW since it was launched last December,” he said.
Mr Lynch said the kit had beaten entries in the Government Award section from Departments across Australia and included an information booklet in English translated into Arabic, Assyrian, Dari, Juba Arabic and Dinka and a DVD with voice over in the five community languages.
He said it described common disabilities such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, sensory disability, brain injury and forms of physical disability such as paraplegia, polio and arthritis.
“It also stresses the importance of people with a disability being able to fully participate in the community,” Mr Lynch said.
“As well as giving valuable advice on working with health professionals, the kit also lists several Agencies and explains the various types of support they provide and shows how people with limited knowledge of English can access the Translating and Interpreter Service.”
He said the kit also provided important information on the rights and responsibilities of people when accessing disability services.
Raising kids together was an initiative of the Government’s $1.3 billion Stronger Together program for the expansion of disability services.
11 November, 2009
Disability month
standing tall
A month long celebration of the achievements of people with a disability is being held across the State.Minister for Disability Services, Paul Lynch said the Don’t DIS my ABILITY campaign included over 100 events to help raise awareness of people with a disability and their achievements.
Mr Lynch said 16 ambassadors, including marathon swimmer Susie Maroney, Paralympian Kurt Fearnley and singer-songwriter Krystel Keller, would talk about their lives and the issues faced by people with a disability.
He said the ambassadors represented the remarkable contribution people with a disability made to the State’s working, sporting and cultural life.
“Through personal experience, they demonstrate that people with a disability lead productive and exciting lives,” Mr Lynch said.
“By sharing their stories at corporate and social events, the ambassadors will actively promote and celebrate the diversity of people with a disability in our communities,” he said.
He said the campaign featured a new website and publication, Made You Look.
Mr Lynch said Made You Look displayed the remarkable stories of people who live their lives with enthusiasm and without feeling held back by their disability.
He said Made You Look would be distributed throughout metropolitan street press venues such as cafes, theatres and cinemas and through regional newsagencies.
A teacher at the North Coast Institute of TAFE, Jane Manns is an ambassador for the campaign, along with Professor in Industrial Law at the University of Sydney, Ronald McCallum.
Ms Manns has paraplegia and teaches Certificate IV in Community services.
Professor McCallum is the first blind person to have been appointed to a full professorship at any Australian university and was appointed member of the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2008.
Mr Lynch said the ambassadors would help educate people about the need for greater accessibility, awareness and understanding in all areas of the community.
“The ambassadors will help break down barriers and dispel the myths around disability,” he said.
International Day of People with a Disability is held annually on 3 December.
Further information on the events was available from www.DontDISmyABILITY.com.au
11 November, 2009
High energy guide for
low energy world
A guide to help businesses understand and manage a low carbon economy has been released as a joint initiative between the Government and international climate change organisation, The Climate Group.The Business Guide to the Low Carbon Economy: New South Wales provides practical steps to help businesses measure and curb greenhouse gas emissions from their operations.
Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, John Robertson said the guide had been commissioned by the NSW Government and prepared by The Climate Group and engineering consultancy ARUP.
Mr Robertson said the guide included concise information about climate change policies and programs across all levels of Government.
“The NSW Government is committed to assisting NSW businesses in the transition to a low carbon economy,” he said.
“This guide is a practical user-friendly tool for all NSW businesses.
“It provides an overview of climate change policies and programs at the NSW and Commonwealth levels and explains how these policies may affect NSW businesses.”
Mr Robertson said the guide would also help businesses reduce energy use and costs and improve their efficiency.
He said helping local businesses adapt to the new carbon constrained economy would be crucial in years to come.
Director of The Climate Group, Rupert Posner said the guide would help businesses unlock the opportunities that existed in transitioning to a low carbon economy.
“Those businesses that are leading the way have shown that managing and reducing emissions creates significant other benefits,” Mr Posner said.
“By moving early, businesses will ensure that they are well placed to compete in a new low-carbon era.”
The guide was available from www.theclimategroup.org
11 November, 2009
Tanning campaign all
slap and no slip-slop
The Dark Side of Tanning campaign has been ramped up to encourage people to be sun smart and summer savvy.Deputy Premier and Minister for Health, Carmel Tebbutt said the Government campaign targeted young men and women and aimed to raise awareness of the risks posed by the sun.
“Summer is on the way. If people haven’t already begun to think about the damage sun is doing to their skin, they need to start now,” Ms Tebbutt said.
“It is estimated there will be almost 4,000 new cases of melanoma in New South Wales during 2009.”
She said the Dark Side of Tanning advertisements had been put back on television in a bid to promote the sun safe message.
Ms Tebbutt said the Cancer Institute found since the Dark Side of Tanning campaign began there had been a 6 per cent decline in pro-tan attitudes in NSW.
“The aim of this campaign is to ensure people understand the dangers of not protecting themselves from the sun,” she said.
Ms Tebbutt said the latest figures released showed Australian men had the highest rate of melanoma in the world, with one in 13 developing melanoma by the age of 85.
“Melanoma is one of the most serious cancer issues affecting our young people, but we can reduce the risk by getting everyone – especially young men – to protect their skin when they’re outdoors this summer,” she said.
“Sunscreen is not the only way you should be protecting yourself.
“Protect your skin by wearing protective clothing and sunglasses, apply sunscreen and where possible seek shade.”
Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), Barbara Perry said the Dark Side of Tanning advertisement had been developed by the Cancer Institute and showed how a deadly melanoma smaller than a pin-head could spread throughout the body.
“What people fail to realise is that damage to the skin can happen even before the skin starts to show signs of burning,” Ms Perry said.
“If not detected and treated early, a melanoma no deeper than one millimetre can become an extremely deadly disease.”
11 November, 2009
Home insurance
propped up
A new home warranty insurance scheme has been announced to provide safeguards for workers and home owners facing a tightening insurance market.Premier, Nathan Rees announced the HWI scheme, saying it would be underwritten by the Government and capitalised and funded by premiums.
Mr Rees said the scheme would be managed by Treasury through the Self Insurance Corporation and operated by private sector providers.
“There are around 35,000 builders who need certainty and that is what we are delivering,” he said.
“There is also a flow on effect to thousands of homebuyers, apprentices, sub-contractors and suppliers.”
Mr Rees said home warranty insurance was mandatory in NSW for all home building work valued at more than $12,000.
“I will not allow a situation where NSW builders cannot get cover, potentially jeopardising a $20 billion industry which employs 250,000 people,” he said.
Mr Rees said the HWI Scheme Board advised the Government the market had contracted following the global financial crisis, leading to the withdrawal of insurers Lumley and CGU.
“The Board has advised that current market conditions are likely to lead to more insurers exiting the market in the near future,” he said.
“We are taking action now because there is already evidence that an increasing number of builders in NSW are unable to obtain cover.”
Mr Rees said the HWI scheme would be managed by Treasury through the Self Insurance Corporation and operated by private sector providers.
Minister for Fair Trading, Virginia Judge said the Government was working with insurers to ensure a smooth transition to the new arrangements.
“Existing consumer benefits will be maintained and there will be scope to address problems more effectively and quickly under the new arrangements,” Ms Judge said.
“Any cover that has already been issued by insurers will remain in force for the duration of the policy with the new scheme coming into effect from 1 July 2010.”
11 November, 2009
TAFE courses
to be first class
Students planning to undertake a year 10 equivalent course at TAFE in 2010 will have a wider range of courses to choose from.Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth said as part of changes to the school leaving age, from next year all NSW students must complete Year 10.
Ms Firth said while most students would do so at high school, some would choose to attend TAFE.
“For some students, TAFE may be a better option for them and they’ll be able to complete the equivalent of Year 10 at TAFE as they always have,” she said.
“In addition, students will now have the option of choosing from 150 other TAFE courses which will also be recognised as the Year 10 equivalent.”
Ms Firth said the additional courses would be offered as Certificate II courses which would give students entry-level qualifications and improve their chances of gaining employment.
She said approved Certificate II courses included: agriculture and horticulture, conservation and land management, automotive mechanical, construction and aquaculture.
Ms Firth said individual TAFE Institutes would determine which courses were available based on student needs and employment opportunities in the region.
“Our focus is to equip this small number of students with the right skills and give them a head-start for a career,” she said.
“What’s suitable for a student in the city may not be suitable for a student in Dubbo or Ballina - that’s why the courses will be offered on a case-by-case, region-by-region basis.”
Ms Firth said the school setting was still the best place for students who wanted a general education to complete their studies.
11 November, 2009
Children’s safety
comes of age
New safety regulations aimed at reducing the number of children injured in car accidents have been announced by the Premier, Nathan Rees.Mr Rees said the rules would come into effect on 1 March 2010 and require children up to the age of seven to wear restraints or travel in approved seats.
“We needed to act on the high numbers of children being injured and even killed when traveling in cars,” Mr Rees said.
“In NSW there have been around 10 deaths of children under seven and around 480 injuries from cars annually.
“National statistics are horrific with up to 80 children killed and almost 4,000 injured each year.”
Mr Rees said current regulations only made it compulsory for children up to the age of one to travel in approved baby capsules or seats which contained their own restraints.
“Research shows that younger children using adult seat belts greatly increase their risk of injury,” he said.
“For around $100 for a booster seat, families can reduce the risks and even save lives.”
Mr Rees said the changes would not come into effect until next year to give parents time to learn the new rules and purchase restraints such as booster seats.
Under the new regulations, children younger than six months must be secured in rearward facing restraints; kids between six months and four years must be secured in a rear or forward facing restraint; those aged four to seven must be secured in a forward facing child restraint or booster seat; children under four cannot travel in the front seat of a vehicle; and children between four and seven cannot travel in the front seat of a vehicle unless all other back seats are occupied.
Minister for Transport, David Campbell said there would be an amnesty on enforcement of the new regulations for the first four months to help parents get used to the changes.
“Too many children are being hurt on our roads and these regulations will ensure that all children are protected every time they travel in a car,” Mr Campbell said.
“Before the regulations come into effect there will be an extensive education campaign so every parent will know what type of restraint they will need for their child.”
Information was available to parents in the 2009 Safer Child Restraints Guide from the Roads and Traffic Authority.
“This brochure provides guidelines for parents to follow when buying a restraint and information about the level of safety and ease of use,” Mr Campbell said.
Further information was available from www.rta.nsw.gov.au
11 November, 2009
Speed conference
hits road running
The NSW Centre for Road Safety has hosted the inaugural Intelligent Speed Adaptation Conference to explore technology aimed at saving lives on the roads.The conference brought together international specialists to focus on the benefits of Intelligent Speed Adaptation (ISA) technology and how it can help change driver behaviour.
A spokesperson for the Roads and Traffic Authority’s Centre for Road Safety, Dr Soames Job said the ISA trial launched earlier this year had received widespread international interest.
Dr Job said the conference gave attendees a chance to explore early results of the NSW trial and international research.
“The ISA program is a $1 million trial with cutting-edge road safety technology installed in private fleet vehicles,” he said.
“It is the largest road safety technology trial conducted in Australia by a Government Agency and involves over 100 light vehicles from private and business fleets from the Illawarra region.”
Dr Job said the ISA used satellites and in-car technology to help motorists stay within the speed limit.
“The devices are similar to a GPS device and inform the driver of the legal speed limit and warn drivers if they are travelling above the limit,” he said.
Dr Job said the conference, which was held in Sydney on 10 November, was based on the theme of ‘From Research to Reality’.
“It is exciting to share the experiences and outcomes of this innovative trial with road safety organisation overseas,” he said.
11 November, 2009
Bar room fights
drying up
The number of assaults on the 100 most assaulted licensed premises in NSW has fallen over the past year, according to new figures released by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research.The Bureau conducted research to evaluate the effect of Government restrictions placed on licensed premises that were the target of a large number of assaults.
The restrictions, which came into effect on 1 December 2008, included mandatory lock outs at two in the morning, cessation of alcohol service 30 minutes before closing time, drink purchase limits after midnight and 10-minute alcohol sale ‘time outs’ every hour after midnight.
Director of the Bureau, Dr Don Weatherburn said BOCSAR found the incidence of assault on the 48 licensed premises upon which restrictions were imposed declined, but that the decline was not restricted to these premises and did not coincide with the imposition of restrictions.
Dr Weatherburn said there was a general decline in the number of assaults and ‘glassings’ on licensed premises occurred across the top 100 licensed premises listed on the BOCSAR website, beginning around March 2008.
He said the falls occurred in aggravated and common assault and were particularly strong in the ‘after-midnight’ time period.
The total number of assaults recorded by police on the top 100 licensed premises reached a peak of around 200 assaults per month in late 2007 but had fallen to around 100 per month by June 2009.
Dr Weatherburn said the Bureau tested whether staff had become less willing to report assaults, but did not find any evidence showing they had.
He said the decline in assaults was probably the result of a combination of factors, including publicly listing the top 100 licensed premises in terms of assault.
“In response to a public disturbance complaint lodged by NSW Police with the former Liquor Administration Board in July 2007, the Board imposed unprecedented restrictions on a number of licensed premises operating in the Newcastle CBD,” Dr Weatherburn said.
“These events were the subject of extensive publicity. They were later followed by vigorous enforcement action.
“All of these factors would have put pressure on the top 100 licensed premises to serve alcohol more responsibly.”
The report was available from www.bocsar.nsw.gov.au
11 November, 2009
WorkCover warning
WorkCover NSW has warned businesses to beware of phone calls from fake sales representatives offering to sell ‘WorkCover authorised safety procedures packages.’
WorkCover has received a number of reports of people being contacted by the bogus salespeople.
WorkCover said it did not sell or authorise ‘safety packages’ and did not allow anyone else to do so under their name.
Ombudsman restructures
The NSW Ombudsman has implemented a number of changes to the structure of his office.
It now has four branches: Human Services Branch, Public Administration and Strategic Projects Branch, Police and Compliance Branch and Corporate Branch.
The restructure was undertaken to address budgetary constraints, changes to work processes and broader Public Service structural changes.
Sea level planning
The State Government is working with Councils to take measures to guide planning for uses of land along the coast in a bid to respond to rising sea levels.
Public comment has been sought on the Draft NSW Coastal Planning Guideline, which encourages a risk-based approach to land use planning and development assessment.
Further information on the draft and how to make a submission was available from www.environment.nsw.gov.au. Consultation closes on 11 December 2009.
Lifejacket laws reviewed
Public comment has been sought on a proposal to make the most extensive changes to lifejacket rules in the past 30 years.
A Discussion Paper canvassing new categories for when it would be compulsory to wear a life lifejacket has been released and targets recreational boaters.
The Paper was available at www.maritime.nsw.gov.au, with comments closing on 8 January 2010.
Airport fire drills
Airservices Australia will be conducting simulated aviation rescue and fire fighting exercises as Sydney Airport over the next two weeks.
Airport users have been told not to be alarmed if they see flames, smoke and large numbers of emergency vehicles at the airport.
The training exercises are expected to take place between 8.30am and 4pm most days.
Comment call on gas prices
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal has called for public comment on its Review of Regulated Retail Tariffs and Charges for Gas 2010-2013.
The review considers how regulated gas tariffs should be set; risks faced by standard retailers; whether there is adequate information available to customers when choosing a gas supplier; and whether the proposed no-tariff fees and charges are reasonable.
IPART said submissions closed on 18 December 2009 and that the review was available from www.ipart.nsw.gov.au
Parramatta on fire
Parramatta residents joined Firefighters at Parramatta Fire Station over the weekend to celebrate 150 years of protecting life and property.
The Fire Station’s Open Day included an historical fire engine display, a kitchen fire demonstration, safety talks for kids and a barbeque.
The Minister for Emergency Services, Steve Whan and NSWFB Commissioner, Greg Mullins joined in the celebrations.
UTS expands research
A new research facility has been opened at the University of Technology, Sydney.
The Microbial and Cellular Imaging and Analysis Facility will enable state-of-the-art technologies for investigating microbes and how they interact with other organisms, host cells and the environment to be developed.
It will also allow Australian researchers to better detect, understand and treat human, animal and plant diseases and the environmental impact of climate change.
Holbrook on show
Residents of Holbrook in southern NSW have been invited to view and discuss the proposed Hume Highway upgrade, with the Environmental Assessment being placed on display from 11 November to 14 December 2009.
The Environmental Assessment outlines the proposal, its potential impacts and the proposed environmental measures that will be in place.
It will be displayed at the Holbrook Local Library and Greater Hume Shire Council Officers, with further information available from www.rta.nsw.gov.au
Updates offered
Fair Trading has given people interested in tenancy law reforms and changes to retirement villages legislation the opportunity to receive email updates.
Interested parties could register their details at www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au to be notified of updates to the draft tenancy legislation and the Retirement Villages Amendment Act 2008.
Festival hits Sydney
The Sydney Festival has been launched by the Premier, Nathan Rees and includes its biggest Western Sydney program yet.
Mr Rees said 2009 was the first year the Sydney Festival had boasted an exclusive Western Sydney program spanning Parramatta, Penrith and Campbelltown.
He said the Festival was Australia’s biggest annual cultural celebration and included dancing, music and performances from across the world.
4 November, 2009
Auditor throws book
at financial accounts
The NSW Government’s State Sector Accounts have received a qualified audit report from the Auditor-General, Peter Achterstraat for the second year in a row.Mr Achterstraat returned the finding because, once again, the valuation of State-owned land – particularly that under roads - could not be verified.
He also expressed concern at a $500 million taxation assessment dating back to 2006-07 which is in dispute.
“Until this matter is resolved,” the Auditor-General said, “the ultimate outcome and its impact on the Net Operating Balance (Budget Result for the General Government Centre) cannot be determined.”
In addition to qualifying the Accounts, the Auditor-General made a number of recommendations he believed were necessary to improve accountability, performance evaluation, risk management and the quality of reporting in NSW Government Agencies.
“I recommend the Treasury develop and implement procedures to improve the quality, reliability and timeliness of financial reporting in the NSW public sector,” Mr Achterstraat said.
He said 12 of the 24 largest Agencies presented financial reports containing “significant errors” in their current year’s information and five produced errors in prior years’ data.
“This delayed and increased the costs of preparing and auditing these financial reports,” the Auditor-General said.
He called for financial reports to be prepared periodically throughout the year using full accrual accounting as a way of avoiding the mistakes.
He was also concerned that too many Agencies were running over Budget too often and called for the causes to be found and fixed.
“I recommend that the reasons for significant and consistent overruns be resolved with the respective Agencies to avoid overruns occurring in future.”
Mr Achterstraat also warned on Agency amalgamations and restructures saying detailed assessments should be completed before they are implemented.
He said last June’s amalgamation of 160 Departments and Agencies into 13 super Departments went ahead without information on the practical aspects of implementing it.
“There is still some uncertainty across parts of the public sector about the practical impact of the changes,” he said.
The Auditor-General also said the Public Authorities (Financial Arrangements) Act 1987 has been in need of amendment since 2006, that the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2005 should be amended to make some targets and priorities more manageable, and that an Audit and Risk Committee be set up for the whole NSW State sector.
The Auditor-General’s report can be accessed at www.audit.nsw.gov.au
4 November, 2009
Medal call is
honour offer
Nominations have been called for the Public Service Medal which is to be awarded on the Queen’s Birthday 2010.Director General of the Department of Premier and Cabinet, John Lee encouraged Public servants from all levels to nominate for the Medal which recognises Public Servants who have made a contribution to the community through the outstanding performance of their duties.
Mr Lee reminded staff that nominations must be endorsed by heads of the State’s thirteen Super Departments.
“Nominations for the Medal are made to the Premier by heads of Super Departments, through the NSW Public Service Medal Committee which is administered by the Department of Premier and Cabinet,” he said.
“The Medal is not confined to senior officers. It is available to any Public Sector employee.”
Mr Lee said the Medal, which is conferred under the Australian Honours System, would be awarded by the Governor-General, Quentin Bryce on the recommendation of the Premier, Nathan Rees.
“As part of the Government’s commitment to excellence in Public Sector management, I encourage heads of Super Departments to consider nominating officers who deserve appropriate recognition for their efforts,” he said.
“It should be noted that the Medal is awarded for meritorious service. Long service alone is not a sufficient basis for nomination.”
Mr Lee said all Public Service employees of the Commonwealth Government, State and Territory Governments and Local governments were eligible for the Medal.
“It has been awarded in the past to administrative/clerical staff and employees involved in operational roles,” he said.
“In all of these instances, outstanding service has been the definitive criteria for the Medal.”
Mr Lee said nominations closed on 29 January 2010.
Guidelines and the Public Service Medal Nomination Form were available from the Australian Honours website, www.itsanhonour.gov.au
4 November, 2009
End-of-year accounts
brought to book
The final Government Budget result for 2008-09 has shown a lower-than-expected deficit of $897 million.Premier, Nathan Rees and Treasurer, Eric Roozendaal announced the result, saying it was better than anticipated.
Mr Rees said NSW had maintained its AAA credit rating and achieved a deficit less than that forecast in the June State Budget of $1.34 billion.
“We have got through the global financial crisis together and we are turning the corner,” he said.
Mr Rees said about half the improvement in the result could be attributed to a change in the timing of Commonwealth grants, however the changes meant NSW would receive $208 million less in grants in 2009-10 which will impact on the projections for that financial year.
He said setting aside the Commonwealth grants brought forward, the NSW 2008-09 Budget deficit was $1.1 billion, improved by increased stamp duty because of activity in the NSW housing sector.
Mr Roozendaal said other reasons the Budget deficit was lower than expected included overall tax receipts being $144 million higher than projected; mining royalties $155 million below the forecast of $1.4 billion; employee expenses $22.1 billion; NSW net financial liabilities reduced by $2 billion to $48.2 billion; and payroll tax revenue $8 million less than projected although NSW did not see a loss of jobs, just reduced hours.
Mr Roozendaal also released the monthly financial statements for July, August and September 2009, saying they showed a total deficit of $15 million so far this financial year.
“The NSW economy remains delicate,” he said.
“However, the impact of the property figures is reassuring and reaffirms we are beginning to see the green shoots of economic recovery starting to take hold.”
The report NSW Report on State Finances 2008-09 was available from www.treasury.nsw.gov.au
4 November, 2009
Speeding motorists
to get the message
Motorists caught speeding or running red lights are to receive safety messages on their penalty notices.Minister for Transport, David Campbell said the messages would be printed above details of the offence and would remind motorists of the dangers of speeding and breaking road rules.
“Penalty notices are an ideal platform for these messages as they directly target drivers who have already shown a tendency to speed,” Mr Campbell said.
He said messages to be printed on penalty notices would include:
- Around 200 people die on NSW roads each year as a result of speeding-related crashes
- Speeding is a factor in one in three fatal crashes
- Travelling at 5km/h over a 60km/h posted speed limit doubles the risk of an injury. The risk doubles again for each additional 5km/h over the limit
- Kids don’t stand a chance against a speeding car, 40km/h is the fastest you should travel in a school zone.
“Speed cameras and speeding fines are only some of the ways that the Government is working to make NSW roads safer for everyone,” he said.
“No one likes paying penalties but the choice is simple - if you don’t want a fine, obey the speed limit.
“The Government would be delighted to issue no speeding penalties at all if it meant no one was speeding on our roads.”
Mr Campbell said four major factors that contributed to crashes and their severity were speed, alcohol, fatigue and not using a seatbelt.
He said the road toll for NSW was already higher than that for 2008.
“The official declared road toll for 2008 has now been released at 374 and already this year the toll is 393,” Mr Campbell said.
“I am calling on motorists to come on board and assist us by taking care on the roads.”
4 November, 2009
Councils open door
on new housing code
An online version of the NSW Housing Code is to be trialled by 12 high-growth Councils.Minister for Planning, Kristina Keneally said the joint State and Local Government pilot would allow people to get planning approvals for their family home online within 10 days for the first time.
Ms Keneally said the trial would conclude in mid-2010 and would provide feedback for a possible State wide rollout later in the year.
“This trial will allow families to lodge complying development applications under the NSW Housing Code with just a few clicks of a mouse button,” she said.
“Putting the NSW Housing Code online will bring the Code into people’s houses, cutting paperwork, delivering speedier decisions and contributing to housing affordability.”
Ms Keneally said the 12 Councils were chosen by an independent selection panel from a field of 25 Councils.
“The Councils were evaluated on a number of criteria, including the volume of residential development applications it processes and expected future growth,” she said.
The trial has been funded by the Federal Government under the Housing Affordability Fund and is being implemented by the State Government as part of broader vision to develop an e-Planning Roadmap for NSW.
It is the first step in establishing an online system for lodging and processing complying development applications under the NSW Housing Code.
President of the Local Government Association, Genia McCaffery was quoted as saying NSW Councils were eager to move towards a simpler planning process.
“Our communities deserve this commitment from us, and I am very proud of the councils taking part, Councillor McCaffery said.
The 12 Councils taking part are: Bankstown City Council, Blacktown City Council, Gosford City Council, Lake Macquarie City Council, Liverpool City Council, Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, Rockdale City Council, Shellharbour Council, Sutherland Shire Council, Tamworth Regional Council, The Hills Shire Council and Tweed Shire Council.
4 November, 2009
Auditor hits road on
motorway handback
The Auditor General has called for a review into the handback provisions of all tollway partnership agreements following an audit into the scheduled handback of the M4 next year.Auditor General, Peter Achterstraat raised concerns about the effects of removing the toll from the M4 upon its return to the Government, and about the condition of the road.
Mr Achterstraat said Government policy dictated the toll be removed, but that doing so would increase the number of vehicles using the road in peak periods.
“More motorists will want to use the M4 than can fit on it,” he said.
“The extra demand is predicted to increase travel time in the morning peak by over 25 per cent.”
He said 500 extra vehicles an hour would want to use the road.
“If you add natural growth, this will increase to 2,000 extra cars,” he said.
The M4 tollway will be the first NSW Public Private Partnership (PPP) to reach maturity and is due to be handed back to the State in February 2010.
The M4 project deed was signed in 1989 between the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) and Statewide Roads (SWR).
Mr Achterstraat said the deed did not spell out an appropriate inspection and testing program to determine repairs required to bring the road up to a satisfactory condition at handback
“The deed did not require that road condition and maintenance be kept up to date with industry standards and best practice,” he said.
“Critically, it did not establish a simple method to cover the cost of any repairs that the operator didn’t make.”
However, the Auditor-General said despite the deed’s shortcomings, the RTA should not need to make any costly repairs to the M4.
“This positive outcome can be attributed to a combination of good management and good will between RTA and SWR,” he said.
“Such a scenario cannot be relied upon in all PPPs, so it is important to address these shortcomings in future deeds.”
Mr Achterstraat made a number of recommendations to ensure current and future deeds considered road conditions.
He called for all future tollway partnership agreements to spell out repair requirements; existing agreements to be reviewed with this in mind; for necessary roadworks to be completed by March next year; and for the RTA to communicate the impacts of removing the toll to road users.
Director of Infrastructure Partnerships Australia, Brendan Lyon, called for the toll to be retained.
Mr Lyon said removing it would make the motorway “a parking lot” during peak hour.
“It would be much more sensible to continue the toll, using the money to fund the massive new investment that is required to fix ailing public transport and complete Sydney’s road network,” he said.
The Auditor-General’s report Handback of the M4 tollway, was available from www.audit.nsw.gov.au
4 November, 2009
CityRail on line
to meet targets
CityRail has delivered the third quarter targets outlined in its Customer Charter for 2009.Minister for Transport, David Campbell congratulated the organisation saying the Charter outlined specific targets for improving frontline services for passengers and CityRail had successfully delivered all five of its commitments between July and September.
“The commitments set out in the Customer Charter are about improving frontline services for customers and making a real difference to their experience on the CityRail network each day,” Mr Campbell said.
He said CityRail had worked hard to deliver the five commitments as part of its pledge to improve services in the seven key areas identified as important by transport customers.
The Customer Charter was announced in December 2008 and committed CityRail to improve services.
The Charter stated customers must be provided with information about less crowded services by August, with a commitment from CityRail to update the information every six months.
CityRail has delivered 40 new Oscar carriages into service, as stipulated in the Charter.
It has also piloted additional hand holds on trains, which was required to be completed by December; has refurbished half of the Endeavour diesel car fleet; and has implemented a new customer feedback process.
“The latest update shows that CityRail is performing against these goals and delivering on its promises to passengers,” Mr Campbell said.
“Meeting these commitments is making a real difference to commuters on the rail network and I congratulate CityRail staff for their work.”
He said progress on the Customer Charter could be followed on www.cityrail.info
4 November, 2009
Kids’ campaign adds
consult to injury
A Children’s Safety Campaign has been announced to help parents prevent common accidents and injuries among children.Premier, Nathan Rees said the Government would sponsor the campaign which was sparked following recent cases of children being involved in avoidable accidents.
Mr Rees said the major cause for children aged 0 to 14 being admitted to hospital was injuries sustained from a fall.
“This month we have seen two incidents, one resulting in the death of a three year old who fell from the window of a Kogarah apartment,” he said.
“Between 1999 and 2008, over 470 children under the age of 15 fell from windows or balconies and tragically some of these falls resulted in a child’s death.”
Mr Rees said a taskforce led by the Head of Trauma at the Westmead Children’s Hospital, Professor Danny Cass would meet with experts to look at relevant regulation and legislation before reporting back to NSW Health.
He said the campaign would consist of a number of elements including a print and radio advertising campaign on preventing falls.
Mr Rees said safety information for new parents would be included in ‘Blue Books’ at hospitals and that safety brochures and posters would be distributed to childcare centres, pre-schools, health clinics and offices of the Department of Community Services.
“In the short term we are committing to a range measures that can be put in place quickly,” he said.
“NSW Health will review overseas campaigns that have helped to reduce injuries by reminding parents to be more aware of simple things they can do.”
Mr Rees urged parents to install locks and guards on windows, keep furniture kids could climb on away from windows and to supervise windows and balconies.
Minister for Community Services, Linda Burney said as summer approached, many parents could be tempted to leave windows open while children were playing inside, or at night.
“There are simple and cheap devices available that will allow you to let some fresh air it, but which also make it hard for smaller children to open a window or door enough to fit through,” Ms Burney said.
“Sometimes a reminder is all we need to help minimise potential risks around our homes.”
4 November, 2009
Ram raid measures
raid crime awards
A New South Wales Police initiative that helped stop ram-raids on ATMs has won a National Award at the 2009 Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards (ACVPA).The Strike Force Piccadilly initiative brought the crime prevention efforts of police, retail businesses, banking organisations and the security industry together to end a spate of ATM raids in the greater Sydney area.
The ACVPA is a joint initiative of the Federal, State and Territory Governments which rewards outstanding community-based projects that prevent or reduce crime and violence.
Strike Force Commander, Detective Inspector Murray Chapman said the project was successful because stakeholders came together to share information and commit to crime prevention measures.
Inspector Chapman said the measures included a police priority alarm response system, relocating ATMs, installing bollards to protect ATMs, developing a risk assessment and reduction tool; and sharing of intelligence reports on attempted ram raids.
“Our reports showed that we were able to stifle the robbery attempts, reducing them from 69 in the year before Strike Force Piccadilly’s two-year operation to 19 in the 12 months following the intervention,” he said.
“Between August 2005 and June 2007, 97 people were arrested by Strike Force Piccadilly for 491 offences related to ATM ram raids, with 21 separate gangs being identified and incapacitated.”
The number of successful raids was reduced over the period from 30 to two.
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor said the program was one of two ACVPA projects organised by those in the Police Sector which demonstrated a contribution above and beyond day-to-day policing activities.
“The project demonstrated the significant crime prevention benefits capable of public-private partnerships, especially when they are well-organised and include a commitment to research and information sharing,” Mr O’Connor said.
“Strike Force Piccadilly’s innovative crime prevention initiatives are still being applied to other property crime problems by police.
“The police hotline and alarm response protocols developed by the project are still being used in NSW, as are the risk assessment service, risk reduction guidelines and regular intelligence sharing.”
Mr O’Connor presented the award at Parliament House in Canberra.
A list of award winners was available from www.aic.gov.au
4 November, 2009
Transport on track
to get sale funding
The bulk of proceeds from the sale of State assets are to go towards funding new public transport projects, according to the Premier, Nathan Rees.Mr Rees said billions of dollars would be unlocked from the Government’s energy reforms and put back into transport infrastructure.
“We will invest the lion’s share of funds to transport projects across the State,” he said.
“This will allow us to meet the Commonwealth more than half way in any future funding agreements.”
Mr Rees said the Government was working on a Transport Blueprint which would include mechanisms for locking-in funding and projects.
He said further details on the funding would be released once the Blueprint was concluded, but that the Government would “promise only what we can deliver and deliver what we promise.”
Mr Rees said the funding would build on a number of projects already completed or underway including the Epping to Chatswood rail line; Stage 1 of the South West rail line; the Cronulla Line duplication; 7,000 new commuter carpaking spaces; and new buses to service the Strategic Bus Corridors and Transitways.
4 November, 2009
Electricity audits
no shock value
The Auditor General’s Volume Three Report for 2009, which includes comments on financial audits of Government Agencies in the electricity sector, has been released to Parliament.Auditor General, Peter Achterstraat said he was pleased to see the audits of the seven NSW electricity corporations’ financial reports for the year ending 30 June 2009 resulted in unqualified Independent Auditor’s Reports.
Mr Achterstraat said he did notice “significant uncertainty” in the value of power station assets due to the unknown impacts of the Commonwealth’s proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS).
“Projected electricity demand in New South Wales is currently expected to exceed supply by 2015-16,” he said.
“Planned additions to the NSW electricity supply need to be in place in time to ensure continued supply of electricity.”
Mr Achterstraat said the Government’s restructure strategy has addressed most of the relevant points he raised in his 2008 report to Parliament Oversight of Electricity Industry Restructuring.
“One point that remains unclear is whether NSW Treasury’s electricity restructure strategy includes a reserve price and retention value - important to ensuring the best outcome for the people of New South Wales,” Mr Achterstraat said.
He said a new coal mine in the Central West would be developed to provide some certainty over coal supplies and costs and to support the restructure.
He said renewable energy targets remained a challenge, with just six per cent of NSW electricity coming from renewables despite a target of 20 per cent by 2020.
Electricity entities’ distributions to the Government were $1.0 billion, down $0.5 billion from last year.
In his report, Mr Achterstraat highlighted some significant items, including the restructure of the electricity industry; the new coal mine; renewable energy; supply and demand; and an increased external debt.
The report was available from www.audit.nsw.gov.au
4 November, 2009
Regional jobs to
go the distance
Regional Development Australia is looking to fill 14 Executive Officer positions with people from regional NSW who have an interest in building their local economy.Minister for Regional Development, Phil Costa and Parliamentary Secretary for Development, Maxine McKew said the jobs would be filled by people on the ground who understood regional NSW and wanted to play an active role in helping businesses and communities in regional areas.
Mr Costa said while the application closing date had passed, one successful applicant would be placed at each of the Regional Development Australia committees across NSW.
“In addition to ensuring their committee’s work runs smoothly, the Executive Officer will have the opportunity to report on regional issues that impact on economic development,” he said.
“The Executive Officer will also provide input and make recommendations on projects.”
Ms McKew said the RDA committee would consult with the community and work with business and industry to develop the region’s economy and create new jobs.
“We are asking the RDA Committee to help drive change and development in regional NSW through its involvement in regional planning, community engagement, promotion of Government programs and other whole-of-Government activities” she said.
“Executive officers for each committee will play a central role in managing, coordinating and reporting on this type of work.”
Applications closed on 4 November 2009.
4 November, 2009
Archives award
sets record
The winner of the inaugural NSW Archival Research Fellowship was announced at the Premier’s History Awards.Dr Caroline Ford was awarded $15,000 to help her research and write a history of Sydney’s relationship with its ocean foreshores, commencing in the 1820s and extending to 1920.
Dr Ford’s submission was singled out for its promise to use sources within the NSW State Archives and records from the Department of Lands.
She is expected to use the sources to explore the complex and conflict-filled history of Sydney’s ocean beaches for the first time.
The Judging Panel noted that Dr Ford’s finished work would make extensive use of the NSW State archives when, what are now public beaches such as Bondi and Manly were included in land grants to private individuals.
Her project will also use records created by other key agencies such as the Colonial Secretary and the Surveyor General to explore coastal land acquisitions and land transactions.
Using this material, Dr Ford aims to document the history of the contest over Sydney’s coastal land and the debate over the public versus private use of the beaches.
She will place it within the modern context by relating it to current understandings of the beach as a site for recreation, which everyone has the right to access.
The Premier’s History Awards were established by the State Government in 1997 to honour distinguished achievements in history by Australians.
The awards are conducted by Arts NSW in association with the History Council of NSW.
4 November, 2009
Historic notebooks
making history
Notebooks documenting Aboriginal life, people and culture in early colonial Sydney have been digitally published in a joint effort by the State Government, Macquarie University and London University.Speaking at the launch of the digitised manuscripts of First Fleet Lieutenant William Dawes, the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Paul Lynch said the documents provided a valuable insight into Aboriginal life and language.
“Importantly, these records also document Aboriginal words, providing more building blocks for the revitalisation of Aboriginal languages,” Mr Lynch said.
He said the notebooks, which lay forgotten until 1972, centred on the friendship between William Dawes and his main teacher Patyegarang.
“The publication of these diaries from more than 200 years ago to the digital age will be welcomed by Aboriginal people, linguists, researchers and the wider public,” Mr Lynch said.
He said the NSW Government provided over $10,000 in funding to digitise the Dawes diaries.
He said linguists believed there were at least 70 Aboriginal languages in NSW before the First Fleet arrived in 1788.
“The number of people in NSW who identified as speaking an Indigenous language fell from 2,682 in 2002 to 804 in the 2006 Census,” he said.
“That’s why the NSW Government this year again invested $200,000 to support Aboriginal language revitalisation in this State.
“That’s why every school in New South Wales now has access to materials to assist the teaching of Aboriginal languages.”
4 November, 2009
Police have formula
for closing drug labs
The NSW Police Drug Squad has led a six-day expert course on how to dismantle dangerous illegal drug labs.Minister for Police, Michael Daley congratulated the 29 NSW Police Drug Squad Officers, Tactical Response Specialists and Forensic Scientists who completed the Clandestine Laboratory and Safety Certification Course which is the only course of its kind in Australia.
Mr Daley said 11 officers from interstate and New Zealand also completed the course.
“The NSW Police Force is leading the way when it comes to fighting drug crime and the fact that our Police squads are the ones training other jurisdictions is evidence of this,” he said.
“NSW Police Drug Squad is also doing an excellent job in the field, having shut down 62 illegal backyard drug labs already this year, including five this week.”
Mr Daley said the Squad has already shut down seven more labs than it did during the entirety of 2008.
“This year, Police have seized 45.8 kg of amphetamines with a street value of around $23 million,” he said.
“Not only are these illicit drugs deadly in the hands of party goers and drug addicts – they’re also a very serious danger for the Police who have to clean these illegal labs up.
“The Drug Squad can’t simply walk into these houses and pack up them up – it’s a complex operation and one that can take days.”
Commander of the NSW Police Drug Squad, Detective Superintendent Nick Bingham said the course was a compulsory requirement for all Drug Squad personnel.
Det Supt Bingham said the course was a practical clan lab course in which police and chemists learned how to keep themselves safe when attending toxic crime scenes.
“These labs are deadly. And the crooks themselves can be very dangerous. Due to what they do, they could be suffering psychosis from exposure to these drugs and the lethal environments they “work” in,” he said.
“There’s a saying we have in the Drug Squad – that if the crook doesn’t hurt you the lab crime scenes will.”
4 November, 2009
Waterfront project
to make a splash
Sydney’s new city waterfront precinct, Barangaroo, is to be a world leading ecological development, according to the Minister for Planning, Kristina Keneally.Ms Keneally said the waterfront project would enter the Clinton Climate Initiative’s Climate Positive Development Program after she signed an agreement with the Initiative’s Chairman, Ira Magaziner.
“Sydney’s new city waterfront precinct will join just 16 other developments around the world which are working with the Clinton Climate Initiative to be Climate Positive,” she said.
“Barangaroo will be one of the first CBD districts in the world to be carbon neutral, water positive and generate zero waste.”
Ms Keneally said Barangaroo would have a positive ecological and social footprint, by producing more water than it used, generating more renewable energy than it used and generating zero waste.
She said the agreement built on Premier Nathan Rees’ July 2009 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Clinton Climate Initiative.
“That partnership will address climate change, focusing on ways to accelerate deployment of low emission technologies in Government-owned buildings,” Ms Keneally said.
Mr Magaziner welcomed the news, saying Barangaroo would help set new standards in urban development.
“I congratulate Barangaroo on its vision and approach in creating a property development that will minimise its environmental impact,” he said.
Mr Magaziner said he hoped the new development would set inspire other developments to look at their environmental feasibility.
4 November, 2009
Call for Mums’ stories
The Public Service Association of NSW is calling for Public Servants to come forward with their stories about breastfeeding and milk expressing facilities in PS workplaces.
The PSA wants to know whether facilities exist and the impacts of breastfeeding arrangements on workers.
Stories can be given in confidence and will be used to build up a cross-the-service profile of how Agencies handle babying requirements.
Contact Maria on mcirillo@psa.asn.au
Records update
The State Records Authority has revised its General Retention and Disposal Authority for imaged records.
The new Authority, GA36, allows disposal of records that have been successfully copied, including those marked “Retain in agency” and those subject to legal proceedings.
The new Authority updates and replaces a 2006 version.
Building blitz nails some
A Fair Trading blitz on building sites on the South Coast has resulted in $16,500 in fines issued to 13 individuals and six companies.
Operation Tablesaw, which looked at compliance with the Home Building Act 1989 and the Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act 2004, found the majority of builders and contractors were doing the right thing.
The blitz found there was a 93 per cent compliance rate.
Gamblers reach milestone
The Gambling Help phone counselling service has reached a landmark 100,000 calls over the past 10 years.
The free helpline aims to give problem gamblers and their families crisis support and counselling 24-hours a day, seven-hours a week.
The service was available by phoning 1800 858 858.
Joint tourist attack
NSW has teamed up with Queensland to visit the United States to showcase the ‘Best of Australia’ to key trade partners and travel trade media.
The tourism trade mission aims to attract more international holiday visitors to Australia’s East Coast.
The two States are offering dual-State destination deals to increase their appeal to the American audience.
Parents reminded on prams
The Minister for Transport, David Campbell has reminded parents to focus on pram safety when travelling on the CityRail network.
Mr Campbell highlighted the importance of holding onto prams, using brakes and parking parallel to the tracks following an incident in Melbourne last month where a pram rolled in front of a train.
A CityRail education campaign on pram safety incorporates a number of initiatives including distributing a pram safety DVD, which was available from key interchange stations.
Ombudsman advises on tax complaints
The Commonwealth Ombudsman has advised taxpayers not to despair if they run into problems with the Tax Office at tax time.
Commonwealth Ombudsman and Taxation Ombudsman, Professor John McMillan said the ATO would inevitably make some mistakes - especially given that it would have to process millions of tax returns.
Professor McMillan said complaints that could not be resolved with the ATO could be passed on to his office, with further information available from www.ombudsman.gov.au
SES DVD OK
A new DVD to encourage high school students to join the State Emergency Service cadet program has been launched during a graduation ceremony for 16 SES cadets at Pennant Hills High School.
The DVD, featuring cadets, trainers and teachers from Pennant Hills High, will be used by SES units around the State to promote the cadets program to high schools.
The cadet program is a 10-week course that provides years 9 and 10 students with an overview of the SES and emergency management skills such as safety, basic first aid, communications and general rescue and search procedures.
Seniors line up at Centrelink
Centrelink Customer Service Centres now offer NSW Seniors Card application forms.
The Seniors Card scheme is a free service that aims to encourage older people to enjoy an active and healthy retirement.
The scheme is administered and funded by the Department for Ageing, Disability and Home Care and includes benefits such as concession prices, discounts on entry into some State venues and discounted goods and services.
Storage services invited
Expressions of Interest from the information technology sector are being sought to consolidate the State’s vast data storage and processing requirements.
EOIs were being sought for the construction of two separate data centres by 2011.
The Government said it was considering placing one or both of the centres in regional areas.
Further information was available from www.commerce.nsw.gov.au
Early centres announced
The providers of six new Early Learning and Care Centres have been announced.
The successful applicants are: Waverley Council, Bondi Junction; Manly Council, Fairlight; Abbotsleigh School for Girls, Wahroonga; The Infants’ Home Child and Familiy Services, Ashfield; and KU Children’s Services, Faulconbridge and Queanbeyan.
Further information was available from www.mychild.gov.au
Christmas stamps of approval
With only weeks until Christmas, Australia Post has released its traditional Christmas stamp series.
This year’s Christmas stamps will feature three themes: iconic figures from the Nativity, familiar symbols of the Christmas season and creatures from Christmas Island. Designed by Mike Heine, the Nativity issue features the Virgin Mary cradling her newborn son and the the three Wise Men offering gifts to the baby Jesus.
Other stamps feature Christmas candles, a Christmas tree, presents, Christmas baubles and bell, candy canes and the endemic Christmas Island Frigatebird.
Scriptwriters in the frame
Screen NSW has called for applications for the 2010 Aurora program, its intensive professional script development program.
Stand alone writers and writer/directors will be considered in addition to writer, director and producer teams.
Four to six projects will be selected to participate in two high-level workshops and script development.
Applications close 30 November 2009, with further information available from www.screen.nsw.gov.au
GPs enticed to bay
General Practitioners in Bateman’s Bay on the South Coast are to be offered retention grants of up to $12,000 a year under a Federal initiative to encourage them to remain in the region.
Changes to the General Practice Rural Incentives Program are expected to take effect from 1 July 2010 and aim to provide a boost for local doctors.
The changes will provide a relocation grant of $15,000 to eligible doctors who relocate to Batemans Bay from a major metropolitan city.
Clinics open
Three new breast screening clinics have been opened in Castle Hill, Blacktown and Penrith.
The clinics aim to increase rates of screening in western Sydney, with women over 50 urged to have a mammogram every two years.
The clinics, managed by the Breast Cancer Institute’s Sunflower Clinic, are three of the eight digital breast screening clinics established in western Sydney under a $5.9 million NSW and Federal government investment.
Defence home buyers have win
Reforms to the first home buyers grant have been passed to help Defence personnel make the most of the Government’s offer.
Before the changes, all homeowners receiving the grant needed to live in the dwelling for six months, creating a problem for Defence staff who could be called away at short notice.
The rules have been amended to exclude Defence personnel from the residency provision.