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SearchArchives for November 2011
29 November, 2011
Procurement probe
finds toner scam
The Corruption and Crime Commission (CCC) has released a report into alleged public sector misconduct relating to the purchase of toner cartridges in exchange for gifts.
The report found PS staff who ordered the toner paid at least $415,000 too much and received gifts from the supplier including gift vouchers, iPods, MP4 players, digital camcorders and LCD TVs.
Director of Corruption Prevention at the CCC, Roger Watson said in most cases the employees did not report the gifts to their employers.
Mr Watson said a number of Agencies purchased more toner from the company than they could use.
“One Agency estimated it had enough toner to last up to five years even though the cartridges have a shelf life of only about two years,” Mr Watson said.
“The report found that generally the gift policies and accountability mechanisms for public authorities did not sufficiently address the misconduct risks.”
He said it made seven recommendations to tighten procurement procedures and policies around the recording of gifts or offers of gifts.
Mr Watson said the Agencies or staff involved in the purchase of the toner were not named as the problem was widespread across the State and Local Government sectors and was due to failing to adhere to policies and procedures.
Public Sector Commissioner, Mal Wauchope said appropriate action had already been taken at an Agency level in relation to individual conduct matters.
“The Public Sector Commission (PSC) worked with relevant Agencies to ensure an appropriate response to individual cases,” Mr Wauchope said.
“At a broader level, PSC is working with agency CEOs to ensure that integrity issues raised in relation to the offer and acceptance of gifts are appropriately managed.”
He said the Public Sector Code of Ethics, Agency Codes of Conduct, and accountability training provided guidance to PS employees relating to the need to ensure their public duty did not conflict with private interests.
“I will continue to raise awareness and provide training to increase the capacity of individuals to exercise judgement in making decisions when offered gifts,” Mr Wauchope said.
“PSC will also continue to work with the CCC and Agencies to progress the recommendations in the report to increase transparency and accountability.”
The report is available at this PS News link.
29 November, 2011
Accommodation moves
bring home reforms
Reforms to office accommodation for the Public Service have reached another milestone with the Department of Culture and the Arts (DCA) moving into Gordon Stephenson House (GSH) at 140 William Street, Perth.
Minister for Finance, Simon O’Brien said DCA was the ninth and final tenant to move into GSH.
“The Government remains on track to avoid costs of up to $25 million a year in office accommodation, at a time when the Perth CBD office rental market is the tightest in the nation,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The replacement cost for Governor Stirling Tower is $450/sqm inclusive of incentives.”
He said the Accommodation Master Plan also aimed to standardise office fit outs; provide shared meeting, training, telephone and computing facilities; and reduce office work points from 19 sqm to 15 sqm.
“Recent figures show that Perth is in the top 10 cities in the world for office rental growth, and the Government is pleased to have secured outstanding results for its office accommodation portfolio in this demanding climate,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Our office accommodation consolidation has been managed with impressive efficiency, and we have reduced our vacancy rate to a creditable 0.18 per cent.”
29 November, 2011
Violence program in
stand for women
A new national program to combat violence against women in the workplace has been unveiled by the Federal Minister for the Status of Women, Kate Ellis.
Ms Ellis said $1.1 million White Ribbon Workplace Program was important in creating long-term changes in attitudes to violence in the workplace.
“We need to pull the issue of family violence out of the shadows and challenge the notion that this is a private issue,” Ms Ellis said.
“This means standing up against violence in all spheres of our lives whether it be at home, in our schools, neighbourhoods or workplaces.”
She said the initiative was an awareness, early intervention and prevention program specifically for workplace settings.
The Minister said that in the past year a reference group of 20 members had been established and in August the group met for the first time to endorse a project work plan and terms of reference.
“The new program is structured around three key elements – the appointment of ambassadors for positive workplace cultures, accreditation of workplaces that are safe places for women, and awards for workplaces that introduce prevention strategies and speak out about violence,” Ms Ellis said.
She also announced that the Government would partner with the Australian Rugby League to run a $250,000 campaign in local rugby league clubs to prevent violence against women and promote respectful relationships.
Ms Ellis said the League would work with community clubs across the country to deliver a media campaign and develop educational resources to prevent violence against women.
29 November, 2011
Bus tracking on
track for buses
A trial project for tracking buses in real time is to be introduced by Transperth as a way of improving bus services and efficiencies.
The new system will allow Transperth’s contracted bus operators to better manage and deliver services.
A Transperth spokesperson said the introduction of the system would assist the Public Transport Authority and its operators improve the services and information they provided to existing passengers and encourage increased patronage of the bus network.
The spokesperson said the organisation would conduct a 12-month trial, starting early next year, on 80 buses operating out of Perth’s Karrinyup depot.
“Vix, an Australian-based company with a large presence in Perth, has had global experience with the technology to be used in the Perth trial,” the spokesperson said.
“The WA State Government has recently committed to a significant redevelopment project in the Perth Central Business District (and) the project, known as Perth City Link, is aimed at improving linkages and reconnecting the city centre with Northbridge, one of Perth’s major cultural and entertainment precincts.”
The spokesperson said the primary focus of the project was to remove the existing physical barrier created by the ‘at grade’ Fremantle Train Line and replace it with a below ground rail line.
“A key component of the public transport works includes the construction of a new underground bus station that will both significantly reduce the facility’s footprint and maximise the number of available bus stands, passenger amenities and terminal efficiency,” the spokesperson said.
“Real-time vehicle tracking and management on the bus network is critical to the new bus station’s successful operation, and will effective station traffic control and dynamic stand allocation functions.”
He said Vix had deployed many similar systems successfully throughout the UK, France and recently in Wellington, New Zealand resulting in an increase in patronage of those services and improved operator efficiency.
29 November, 2011
Parole audit finds
time-off back on
An audit of parole management by the Department of Corrective Services (DCS) has found that a tighter approach to enforcing conditions had led to an increase in parole cancellations.
In his audit report, The Management of Offenders on Parole, WA’s Auditor General Colin Murphy said DCS was adopting a stricter approach to non-compliance than in the past and as a result the number of cancelled parole orders was increasing.
Mr Murphy said DCS had made significant changes in both policy and practice following a number of reviews over the past two years.
“There is no doubt parole is a controversial issue and there is ongoing debate about the best way to ensure the community remains safe,” Mr Murphy said.
“Minimising the risks and maximising the benefits of parole relies on the effective and consistent supervision and monitoring of parolees, making sure that offenders comply with parole conditions, and when they do not, appropriate action is taken.”
He said stricter enforcement of parole conditions by DCS had meant that breaches were more often resulting in consequences for the parolee, such as the cancellation of their parole.
Mr Murphy said Western Australia had a lower rate of offenders on parole and a higher rate of offenders in prison compared to the Australian average.
He said figures outlined in the report showed that since 2009, the number of offenders released on parole in Western Australia had fallen significantly and there had been a significant increase in the rate of cancelled parole orders.
He said that had increased the prison population by over 700 at an estimated cost of about $115,950 per day.
“Parole carries a short term crime risk, but it is also a cost effective way to supervise some offenders, and can help reduce the long term risk of reoffending by providing controlled reintegration into the community,” Mr Murphy said.
“Even though DCS’s policy framework has been improved there is inconsistency in the management of parolees and the monitoring of some parole conditions.”
The Auditor General’s full report can be accessed at this PS News link.
29 November, 2011
Fire booklet
a hot item
The Fire and Emergency Services Authority’s (FESA) bushfire publication, Prepare. Act. Survive has been reviewed and distributed to almost 100,000 people.
The revised publication places a greater emphasis on what to expect during a bushfire and includes practical advice about how to prepare.
It also highlights the need for people to always remain aware of the conditions around them and act without waiting for a warning, especially if they notice smoke or flames.
Acting Chief Operations Officer at FESA, Lloyd Bailey said the booklet could help save properties and lives, but only if people read it and took action.
“As well as tips on how to prepare your home and family for the upcoming season, the publication includes information about Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans,” Mr Bailey said.
“The booklet is a ‘must have’ for anyone who owns property near bushland - it could save your life.”
He said as the bushfire season neared, it was more important than ever for people to prepare.
“We’ve already had a taste of summer with a few hot days here and there to remind us of the warm weather to come,” he said.
“Once summer starts it will be a lot more difficult to get outside and do all the tasks you need to do to get your home ready.”
Mr Bailey said now was the time to take action.
“Having a bushfire survival plan is the first step and you should always have a contingency plan,” he said.
“If your plan is to stay and actively defend, you will need to have an independent water supply of at least 20,000 litres and if your plan is to leave you need to think about where you will go, how you will get there and what you will need to take with you.”
The booklet is available at this PS News link.
29 November, 2011
Economic Regulator
charts 3-year plan
The Economic Regulation Authority (ERA) has issued its three-year Strategic Plan to 2014.
The independent economic regulator for Western Australia, ERA has the role of regulating the electricity, gas, water and rail industries in the State and also undertaking inquiries and making recommendations to government on important economic issues.
According to Chairman, Lyndon Rowe, the Authority will be guided for the next three years by a revised purpose statement to ensure consumers receive quality services for a reasonable price.
“At the end of the three year period of this strategic plan, the ERA wants to have greater confidence that consumers of electricity, gas and water services are paying bills that reflect efficiently incurred costs, that the services they receive are consistent with their expectations and willingness to pay, that the contracts they enter into with their service providers are fair, and that they have appropriate options should they experience difficulties in paying their accounts,” Mr Rowe said.
“We want to have greater confidence that the owners of electricity, gas, rail and water networks are all incurring expenditure efficiently, are complying with their licence obligations and, where relevant, providing access to their networks or pipelines on reasonable terms.”
He said the ERA wanted to have greater confidence that licensees – such as generators and retailers of electricity, gas and water – were all complying with their licence obligations.
“We would also like to see a much more competitive wholesale market for electricity,” he said.
Mr Rowe said the Authority’s advice would always be based on what it thought was in the long-term interests of consumers and the goals and strategies in the strategic plan had been designed to achieve that.
He said the five goals outlined in the strategy included to be a leader, to be recognised; to be accessible; to improve the efficiency; and to improve regulatory compliance.
The ERA’s three-year strategic plan can be accessed at this PS News link.
29 November, 2011
Hospitals receive
healthy report
A new report into the performance of WA hospitals has shown marked improvements across a range of key areas.
Director General of Health, Kim Snowball said the WA Health Performance Report July to September 2011 showed the WA health system continued to perform strongly in face of growing demand.
“From July to September this year 238,091 people attended our emergency departments, which is an increase of 6.1 per cent or 13,773 people compared with the same quarter in the previous year,” Mr Snowball said.
“During the same period we saw ambulance ramping reduce by almost 40 per cent from 3,137 hours to 1,891 hours.”
He described this as a “fantastic” achievement and further proof that new initiatives like the Four Hour Rule Program were making a positive difference in hospitals.
He said improvements had also been made in elective surgery wait times and credited all hospital staff with producing real results for WA patients and the community.
“Between July and September ,WA hospitals admitted a record 21,355 patients from the elective surgery wait list,” Mr Snowball said.
“This is 575 more admissions or a 2.8 per cent increase compared to the same time last year.”
He said during the period the median wait time for patients on the elective surgery wait list fell to 1.94 months, representing a 3.3 per cent reduction.
“The report also showed that for the July-September quarter 5,856 babies were born – an increase of 99 from the same time last year; 96.4 per cent of Triage 1 patients were seen within recommended time (immediately); and 2,651 people were admitted for mental health services – an 8.8 per cent increase from the same time last year,” he said.
The report is available at this PS News link.
29 November, 2011
Drug driving campaign
holds high hopes
A new drug driving campaign has been launched.
The launch follows the release of new statistics that showed illegal drugs had been detected in almost one in three drivers or riders killed in crashes on WA roads.
Director of Prevention and Workforce Development at the Drug and Alcohol Office, Gary Kirby said drug driving continued to be a problem and the current campaign would focus specifically on the harm caused by drug driving.
“The 2007 National Drug Strategy Household Survey found that 27.2 per cent of individuals aged 14 years and over drove a motor vehicle whilst under the influence of illegal drugs,” Mr Kirby said.
He said this number was up from 25.2 per cent in 2004.
“In 2007, illegal drugs were detected in 30 per cent of drivers and motorcyclists killed on our roads, up from 22 per cent in 2006. That’s a worrying increase of 8 per cent.”
He said it was generally understood in the community that drink driving was dangerous and that alcohol impaired judgement and made a driver a liability on the road.
“But it may be news to some people that drug driving can end with the same tragic results as drink driving,” he said.
Mr Kirby said the national survey covered nearly 7,000 people and found around 90 per cent of them were aware that it was very dangerous to drive under the influence of alcohol.
He said in relation to illegal drugs the survey found users’ perceptions of the dangers of driving under the influence was significantly lower than non-users.
“In relation to cannabis and stimulant drugs such as methamphetamines and ecstasy, around 80 per cent of non-users, compared with only around 35 per cent of users perceived it being dangerous to drive under the influence,” he said.
“With this campaign we are letting people know that drugs can dangerously impair your driving ability, and we are targeting illegal drug users in particular with this message.”
29 November, 2011
Radio program has
jailhouse rockin’
A prison-oriented radio program on Perth’s Noongar Radio station has been named the best new program at the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia’s 2011 Voxies awards.
The weekly radio program Inside Out is co-hosted by 100.9 FM Noongar Radio’s Mechelle Wilson and Casuarina Prison’s Coordinator of Aboriginal Services, Lea McKay.
Ms Wilson said the program was not just a requests show.
“It definitely goes beyond that,” Ms Wilson said.
“We share prisoner poetry and discuss appropriate issues and do a lot of shout outs to people in prison from friends and family from all over the country.
“This award is a really big deal for us, especially as it is voted by industry peers.”
She said the show had only been running for about 18 months and the award gave it a big morale boost for many people on the inside, as well as their families on the outside.
“It’s not just for Aboriginal listeners,” she said.
“Inside Out is about keeping family, friends and loved ones connected, about keeping people in touch, on the inside and out.”
Ms McKay said she found the award “humbling.”
“I do the show simply because I love to do it and it has helped in my job in gaining a greater rapport with Aboriginal prisoners,” she said.
“The show is a way for the prisoners to still feel that connection to their family and friends on the outside and it can be part of the healing process when a loved one has passed because condolences are a big part of the show.”
Both women volunteer their time for the program.
29 November, 2011
Alcohol damage
going down
Figures released by the Drug and Alcohol Office have revealed that the rate of hospitalisation for alcohol-related causes has dropped in four major regional areas over the past four years.
Minister for Mental Health, Helen Morton said the Alcohol related hospitalisations and deaths in WA reports revealed hospitalisations in the metropolitan area had increased however and a number of regional areas continued to have levels above the State average.
“While it is encouraging to see the figures drop in four of Western Australia’s regions since the last report, it concerns me that more people in the city are ending up in hospital because of alcohol-related causes,” Mrs Morton said.
She said the regions showing positive results were the Goldfields, Kimberley, Mid-West and Pilbara.
“Increased engagement with some regional communities and a focus on evidence-based strategies to address alcohol-related issues appears to be making a difference for those areas, and this could perhaps inform what we do here in Perth.”
She said however in despite the falls in hospitalisations, the Goldfields, Kimberley, Mid-West and the Pilbara health regions still returned rates significantly higher than the State rate, and that remained cause for concern.
“We still have a long way to go in addressing alcohol in our regions, with people in the Kimberley region 4.3 times more likely to be hospitalised for alcohol-related reasons than the State rate,” she said.
The reports are available from this PS News link.
29 November, 2011
Degree of increase
for uni places
Students in Western Australia are to benefit from the Commonwealth Government’s allocation of 1,000 new student places at the University of Notre Dame.
Federal Minister for Tertiary Education, Senator Chris Evans said funding of $28 million over four years for the new Commonwealth supported places built on past spending at Notre Dame.
“With more than 8,000 Australian students, Notre Dame makes a valuable contribution to the provision of higher education and meeting Australia’s skills needs in medicine, nursing and teaching,” Senator Evans said.
“The new places will commence from 2012 and will enable the University to expand its current health and behavioural science course offerings at its Fremantle, Broome and Sydney (NSW) campuses, ensuring it can better respond to student and employer demand.”
He said the University would also continue to make its distinctive contribution to the education of Indigenous people in Northern Australia and the funding would provide for an additional 450 Commonwealth-supported places from next year, increasing to more than 1,000 places by 2014.
“This decision follows the Government’s commitment to consult with the University on its position going into the demand driven funding system in 2012.”
He said the allocation of new places at the University of Notre Dame Australia was part of the Government’s major program of reforms to increase higher education participation and improve the quality of the system.
“The reforms have already given more Australians the opportunity to attend university than ever before,” Senator Evans said.
“An additional 100,000 Australian students are now attending university this year – with total Commonwealth-supported student places up by more than 22 per cent since 2007.”
29 November, 2011
Healthy attitudes
proving positive
A new report released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has found that most Australians are happy with their health service providers.
The Patient Experiences in Australia: Summary of Findings report found at least 80 per cent of people felt their health professional always or often spent enough time with them, listened carefully to them and showed them respect.
It said that when people were asked if they felt their health professional had spent enough time with them 95 per cent said their dental professionals had always or often done so; 88 per cent said their GPs had always or often done so; and 80 per cent said emergency department doctors and specialists had always or often done so.
However, it also said that over a quarter of Australians found cost a barrier in seeing a dental professional (26 per cent), while 12 per cent delayed seeing or did not see a specialist and eight per cent delayed seeing or did not see a GP in the past 12 months due to the cost.
“Four out of five people had seen a general practitioner (GP) in the last 12 months, with 18 per cent of them for urgent medical care,” the report said.
“A third of people had seen a medical specialist and half had seen a dental professional in this time.”
It said just over 15 per cent of Australians who had seen a GP felt that they had waited longer than acceptable to get an appointment.
“For the three out of every five people needing to see a GP for urgent care, over half had seen one within 4 hours,” it said.
“Just under one in 10 people, however, did not see a GP until two or more days after making an appointment for care they considered to be urgent.”
Further details can be found on the Bureau of Statistics website this PS News link.
29 November, 2011
Bird warning
takes wing
The Department of Agriculture and Food is urging residents in the Northern Agricultural Region to be on the lookout for a pest bird.
Biosecurity officer with the Department, Kate Detchon said there had been recent unconfirmed sightings of the Common Myna in the Walebing, Buntine and Wubin areas.
Ms Detchon said the Common Myna was a pest of cereal and horticulture crops, and was not normally found in Western Australia.
“The Common or Indian Myna is cocoa coloured, with a dark brown head and is about 22 to 27 cm long,” she said.
“It has yellow legs, a yellow beak and yellow skin extending underneath and behind the eyes. It has a long black tail tipped with white, and white patches beneath its wings are visible when it flies.”
She said the pest was often confused with native honeyeaters such as the Yellow Throated Miner.
“However, Yellow Throated Miners are native to the area and eat only insects and nectar from native flowers,” Ms Detchon said.
“To tell them part, the native miners have grey bodies, whereas the Common Mynas are brown.”
She said the Common Myna was established in eastern parts of Australia, but not in Western Australia.
“The IUCN (World Conservation Union) lists the Common Myna as one of the 100 worst alien invasive species, along with the cane toad and common starling,” she said.
“It has been known to damage standing cereal crops including wheat, maize and rice. “The bird also damages orchard fruits such as grapes, figs, apples, pears, strawberries and mangoes.”
Ms Detchon said the Common Myna was also an environmental pest and had been reported to eat eggs and young chicks.
“This bird is often found around picnic areas, near houses and in roadside vegetation. They nest in tree hollows, under roofs, in walls, or in cliff hollows,” she said.
“Any suspect sightings of the Common Myna should be reported to the Department of Agriculture and Food’s Pest and Disease Information Service on freecall 1800 084 881.”
29 November, 2011
Tidy towns clean up
West Arthur has won the title of Western Australia’s tidiest town.
The small community 200km south-east of Perth, was also named regional winner for the Great Southern region in the 2011 Tidy Towns - Sustainable Communities State Awards.
Minister for Environment, Bill Marmion said the West Arthur community had demonstrated excellence across a variety of categories, including improving and maintaining their town’s appearance and working towards environmental sustainability.
“West Arthur has a proud record in the Tidy Towns - Sustainable Communities State Awards, with previous wins in the categories of General Appearance; Natural Heritage Conservation; Recycling and Waste Management; Enhancing Cultural Identity; and Water Conservation,” Mr Marmion said.
“WA’s regional communities have a reputation for being hands-on when it comes to environmental sustainability.”
He said many of the local programs recognised by the Tidy Towns State Awards were run by volunteers, and their valuable assistance was acknowledged in helping keep such wonderful communities strong and vibrant.
He said Tidy Towns was supported by Keep Australia Beautiful WA; the Department of Environment and Conservation; and the Waste Authority.
“Tidy Towns - Sustainable Communities State Awards celebrate the contribution of regional Tidy Town committees and volunteers,” Mr Marmion said.
“Awards were first presented in 1969 and recognise water conservation, natural and cultural heritage, waste management and community involvement.”
29 November, 2011
Transport plugs
water campaign
The Department of Transport (DoT) has launched a campaign to deliver advanced warnings of closed waters for sailing championships.
The DoT campaign aims to highlight on-water closures between Woodman Point and Leighton and special arrangements at Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour (FFBH) during the upcoming Perth 2011 ISAF Sailing World Championships.
Coordinator of Safety and Compliance at DoT, Peter Beattie said the majority of skippers had responded positively to the education campaign, launched in September.
“The distribution of specially produced brochures including information about the on-water arrangements to thousands of skippers as part of regular marine safety compliance patrols, special information signage highlighting the arrangements positioned at boat ramps and advertising has helped increase awareness amongst the boating community,” Mr Beattie said.
“DoT will implement three coastal exclusion zones which will prohibit boating in race areas from 8am to sunset on each day of the event from 3 December, 2011 to 18 December, 2011.”
He said the three exclusion zones included waters north of the entrance to Fremantle Harbour extending 1.5 nm westward and to the north of Leighton Beach; waters south of the entrance to Fremantle Harbour extending west to the Parmelia Success channel and south to Woodman Point; and waters within Fremantle Inner Harbour.
He said a restricted access channel, through the exclusion zone, would operate for recreational and commercial vessel movements in and out of FFBH, Challenger Harbour and the Fremantle Sailing Club.
“During the event there is no recreational vessel access to the public boardwalk at FFBH due to the relocation of existing licensed charter operators, and on land, the car park at Sardine Wharf and between the Royal Perth Yacht Club Fremantle Annexe and the Quest Apartments will be closed,” Mr Beattie said.
“Skippers should also be aware that Perth 2011 marshal boats will direct vessels moving through the Fremantle Inner Harbour as they will be restricted to an access lane along the harbour wharf.”
He said DoT patrol vessels would be positioned at key locations on the water and officers would be on hand to assist the boating community and those needing to use the designated access channels.
He said more information was available from this PS News link.
29 November, 2011
Interest sought on
‘Murdoch Mix’
Registrations of Interest have been called for projects to be part of the ‘Murdoch Mix’, an eight-hectare mixed-use precinct in Murdoch.
Minister for Planning, John Day said along with the Fiona Stanley Public Hospital, the precinct would be a catalyst for development of the overall Murdoch Activity Centre.
“Murdoch Mix is one of five designated Specialised Centres identified in the Government’s long-term planning strategy, Directions 2031 and Beyond, that addresses urban sprawl,” Mr Day said.
“This designation acknowledges Murdoch’s strategic cluster of facilities, including the Fiona Stanley and St John of God hospitals, Murdoch University and Challenger Institute of Technology Murdoch Campus and underpins the future development of the Murdoch Activity Centre being planned as a new city centre for the southern corridor.”
He said with a forecast of 35,000 employees, the centre would have one of the highest employment levels of any area outside Perth’s CBD and potentially one of the country’s most intensive non-CBD employment centres.
Minister for Lands, Brendon Grylls said LandCorp was managing the ROI to show off the site’s potential nationwide.
“There is potential for up to 220,000sqm of development catering for a range of complementary activities, including commercial offices, allied health services, retail, residential and short-stay accommodation opportunities,” Mr Grylls said.
“LandCorp will use the ROI to gauge genuine interest from prospective commercial occupiers and developers interested in purchasing land in the precinct, which will assist project planning and help shape strategies to initiate development.”
He said it was good business sense for LandCorp to evaluate the private sector’s level of interest for a development of such scale so close to first-class transport, medical and education facilities.
More information is available from this PS News link.
29 November, 2011
And in Other News...
Firefighters’ compo easier
New legislation is expected to simplify the process for firefighters suffering work-related cancers to make a workers’ compensation claim.
The new Bill amends the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 to provide a presumption that if a firefighter develops a certain form of cancer, it is work-related for the purpose of determining their workers’ compensation claim.
The amendments will cover primary site brain cancer; primary site bladder cancer; primary site kidney cancer; primary non-Hodgkins lymphoma; primary leukaemia; primary site breast cancer; multiple myeloma; primary site prostate cancer; primary site ureter cancer; primary site colorectal cancer; primary site oesophageal cancer; and primary site testicular cancer.
City takes over Centre
The City of Perth is to assume management control and funding of the Rod Evans Senior Citizens’ Centre in East Perth.
At the association’s recent Annual General Meeting, the membership voted to transfer management of the centre to the City and to dissolve the association’s constitution.
Lord Mayor, Lisa Scaffidi said the decision meant the future of the centre would be assured with the City undertaking the cost of running it.
Marine light warning
The Department of Transport (DOT) has warned skippers planning to view Christmas lights from Mandurah’s canals that they will need to ensure their vessel meets all the safety requirements – including navigation lights.
Senior Marine Officer at DoT, Adam Rando said all vessels on the water between sunset and sunrise were required to display the appropriate navigation lights.
“We advise skippers to check their vessel’s navigation lights are operational as part of the routine safety checks undertaken before a voyage and recommend they carry spare bulbs on board,” Mr Rando said.
“The person in charge of the vessel should carry their Recreational Skipper’s Ticket (RST) and remember it is an offence for that person to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”
Scientists crack code
Western Australian scientists have cracked the lupin genetic code.
The breakthrough will provide the world’s most comprehensive and informative genetic map and help fast track the development of new varieties.
The highly detailed map was developed by the Department of Agriculture and Food’s national lupin breeding team, and shows how certain genes can be inherited to help breeders locate and select commercially important genes for future lupin varieties.
Bush fire boost
The Gingin South Bush Fire Brigade has received a boost ahead of the upcoming bushfire season with the arrival of a new $250,000 firefighting appliance.
The new appliance can pump 1,200 litres of water per minute which is a significant improvement over its predecessors.
It will give firefighters an additional resource for what is expected to be a busy bushfire season.
22 November, 2011
Premier rewards
PS excellence
Achievements in Government has once again been recognised in the 2011 Premier’s Awards for Excellence in Public Sector Management.
Twenty separate State Government Agencies and related organisations were honoured, with the Western Australian Museum, in partnership with Woodside Energy Ltd, receiving the major award for its entry, Exploring the Marine Biodiversity of Northern WA.
Premier, Colin Barnett presented the awards and said work by the WA Museum and Woodside had facilitated sound environmental management to help maintain and conserve the marine resources of the vast North-West region for future generations
Mr Barnett said the project had enhanced the respective reputations of both partners, nationally and internationally, as well as providing networking; financial and operational benefits; and employment and market advantage.
“This partnership demonstrates the value of effective co-operation between the Government, industry and the community,” he said.
Mr Barnett also announced other winners including ScreenWest for its indigenous screen strategy; Tourism WA for the Extraordinary Taxi Ride; the Challenger Institute of Technology for Weld to Life; the Insurance Commission of WA, WA Police, Main Roads WA and the Office of Road Safety for their Online Crash Reporting Facility; and the Department of Housing for its stimulus programs.
“This year, 55 entries were received from the Public Sector and private agencies, including Public Sector Departments, statutory authorities, Local Governments, hospitals and regional offices,” he said.
Mr Barnett said the Awards were established in 1996 and aimed to stimulate highly innovative projects and displays of creative leadership leading to better service to the community.
A full list of the winners is available from this PS News link.
22 November, 2011
Museum’s website
is top of the pops
The Western Australian Museum has won an Australian Web Award for its exhibition website AC/DC Australia’s Family Jewels.
The Museum was also honoured with a Museums Australia Award for its Woodside Kimberley website.
Minister for Culture and the Arts, John Day said the Australian web award was presented to the museum ahead of a competitive field of national web development agencies in recognition of the Museum’s innovation in web development.
“AC/DC Australia’s Family Jewels was one of the most successful exhibitions in the museum’s history and it is good to see it is still receiving plaudits,” Mr Day said.
“This is the fifth consecutive year the WA Museum has won an Australian Web Award and demonstrates the excellence in web design that State Government Agencies are achieving.”
He said the AC/DC website was judged in two stages against criteria such as performance, accessibility, user experience, visual design and content.
He said it took out the award ahead of websites such as those of the Australian Olympic Committee (London 2012); Mark Webber; and the Green and Gold Army.
“Over the course of the three month exhibition in Perth, more than 30,000 people visited the museum’s website with the average visit lasting more than three minutes,” Mr Day said.
“The museum developed the website in partnership with the Arts Centre, Melbourne for the national tour of the AC/DC exhibition; it is now being utilised by museums in Scotland and America for the international tour of the AC/DC exhibition.”
The winning website can be accessed at this PS News link and more information on the awards finalists is available from this PS News link.
The WA Museum Kimberley Project website is this PS News link.
22 November, 2011
New driver’s licence
to drive security
A new-look driver’s licence card with enhanced security features is to be issued to new drivers and those renewing their licences across the State from this week.
Minister for Transport, Troy Buswell said the new card aimed to deter identity theft and with a revised design and more security features it would make forgery far more difficult.
“This new licence card further increases the personal security of Western Australian licence holders and acts as a further deterrent against identity crime,” Mr Buswell said.
“Some of the security features include a barcode; a watermark; unique serial number for each licence; printing over a clear panel; and the date of birth embossed under the photo - features that are difficult for criminals to replicate.”
He said the new card ensured the State Government was one step ahead of criminals as the number of security features on the card was greater than that required under world’s best practice.
He said the Department of Transport had introduced new proof of identity requirements in September that were in line with the National Identity Security Strategy and National Gold Standard Framework.
Mr Buswell said work had also started on the introduction of facial recognition (biometrics) and the implementation of a document verification system.
“While we already have excellent measures in place to prevent identity crimes, we will keep striving to further improve our systems in order to keep a step ahead of any developments in identity fraud,” he said.
“The introduction of biometrics will make it very difficult for people to obtain a fraudulent motor driver’s licence.”
He said it would make WA the national leader in identity security.
Mr Buswell said drivers would not be charged any more for the new licence cards.
22 November, 2011
Reformers called to
reform commitment
The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) has been called on to get serious about national reforms by showing more commitment and leadership to ensure the changes it wants reach their full potential.
The call to action comes from the Chairman of COAG’s own Reform Council, Paul McClintock.
Speaking at the launch of COAG Reform Agenda: Report on Progress 2011, Mr McClintock said COAG had established a solid foundation for cooperation, through the Intergovernmental Agreement on Federal Financial Relations, around its national reform agenda.
“But for COAG to really succeed it must build a culture of trust and cooperation within and between Governments,” Mr McClintock said.
“Put simply, it is critical that COAG throws its full weight behind these reforms.”
He said this would require strong political leadership and a determined effort from all Governments.
He said COAG’s Intergovernmental Agreement aimed to advance collaboration between Governments by fostering greater flexibility in service delivery, alongside a stronger commitment to public accountability for achieving outcomes.
He said in this second annual progress report on the reforms, the Council found that 20 of the 26 major reform commitments were currently on schedule.
Mr McClintock said that while this was a positive result, there was obviously more work to be done.
“We are disappointed that some reform commitments – such as the national Rental Affordability Scheme, improving the availability of social housing and the National Strategy on Energy Efficiency – are behind schedule,” he said.
“Further progress is needed on COAG’s reform commitments, but we recognise it will take time for COAG to meet its long-term goal.”
He said the Reform Council wanted COAG to know its agenda for change was significant and there was a great deal waiting to be achieved.
“But for it to succeed in the long-term, now is the time to roll up your sleeves and give this your full commitment,” Mr McClintock said.
He said COAG’s reform agenda covered key areas such as health, Indigenous reform, education, skills, disability services, housing, water, and a range of competition and regulatory reforms.
22 November, 2011
WA students rule
in Civics studies
The results of National Civics and Citizenship testing reveal Western Australia to be the only State in the country to record significant increases.
The testing found that between 2007 and 2010, Western Australia’s year 10 students significantly increased their mean score by 32 points, moving the State from seventh to fourth place nationally.
Minister for Education, Liz Constable said year 6 students had also increased their mean score by 33 points, moving them from seventh to fifth place in the national rankings.
Dr Constable said the triennial National Civics and Citizenship Sample Assessment was conducted in October 2010 and included 1,181 year 6 students from 48 schools and 1,027 year 10 students from 45 schools across WA.
“A background survey undertaken at the same time as the assessments, asked about attitudes and engagement in citizenship activities in and out of school,” Dr Constable said.
“Responses indicated that students rated participation in activities to protect the environment, promote human rights, benefit the local community and learn about Australia’s history as the most important citizenship behaviours.”
She said less than half the year 10 students found discussing politics and involvement in peaceful protests as important for good citizenship and the police and law courts were the civic institutions they trusted most.
Dr Constable said the majority of year 10 students also expressed positive attitudes to Australian indigenous cultures and multiculturalism.
“What is particularly remarkable about these results is that our year 10 students were generally one year younger than those in other States at the time of testing,” she said.
“These results, together with recent improvements in literacy and numeracy show that we are on the right track.”
22 November, 2011
High hopes for new
drugs campaign
A new campaign on the dangers of drugs will feature the personal stories of former drug users and the impacts dangerous drugs had on their lives.
Minister for Mental Health, Helen Morton said the ‘Amphetamines turn you into something you can’t see for yourself’ campaign revealed descriptions from eminent drug researchers and doctors on how amphetamines affected brain function, decision making, propensity to violence and how they could cause hallucinations.
Ms Morton said amphetamine use was an ongoing concern with Western Australia continuing to show the highest rate of use in the country.
“It is very important we don’t take our eye off the ball when it comes to this dangerous substance and the serious impact it can have on a person’s physical and mental health,” she said.
“Young people have told us how valuable these real life stories are in helping them make informed decisions.”
She said all prevention campaigns were designed to increase awareness and knowledge of the potential health, social and legal consequences of drug use.
Ms Morton said the $230,000 multi-media campaign would feature radio advertising across metropolitan and regional radio stations; a new amphetamine campaign interface on the Drug Aware website; advertising in youth street press and festival guides; internet advertising; and youth media on sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.
More information was available from this PS News link.
22 November, 2011
New phones engaged
for emergency calls
Ministers for Police and Emergency Management from around Australia have agreed to new, standardised, phone numbers for emergency assistance.
The new agreement will see 132 500 used as the national number to call for emergency help and 131 444 for non-emergency Police Assistance.
Federal Attorney-General, Robert McClelland said the decision would improve the way the emergency call service operated in all States and Territories, including WA.
“Having one nation-wide number to call when you need assistance in non-life threatening or non-time critical situations will make it easier for people to remember and use wherever they are in Australia,” Mr McClelland said.
He said Ministers had also agreed to improvements in the national Triple Zero service.
“Triple Zero plays a crucial role in managing disaster response and it will now be better equipped to deal with increased demand during disasters,” Mr McClelland said.
He said recorded voice announcements (RVAs) would be introduced directing people to State or Territory Emergency Services, or Police Assistance national numbers, if they didn’t require urgent assistance from police, fire or ambulance.
“As nearly half of all calls to Triple Zero are non-urgent or people seeking information, these measures will go a long way to help ease the burden on Triple Zero,” Mr McClelland said.
“Triple Zero should only be dialled in emergencies that are life-threatening or for time-critical situations requiring a rapid response from police, fire or ambulance services.”
He said the new arrangements would work towards ensuring that people with genuine needs were able to access emergency assistance swiftly whilst people who required access to appropriate sources of information and non-emergency assistance were also accommodated.
He said the Ministers had agreed to build on progress by looking at setting up an all hazards Emergency Information hotline.
“This telephone hotline would give people a single number to call about information for floods, bushfire and other serious events,” he said.
“All of these initiatives will ultimately see an improved service for the public during what can be very distressing times,” Mr McClelland said.
22 November, 2011
Weather Bureau has
date with calendar
The Bureau of Meteorology has launched its 2012 Australian Weather Calendar.
Calendar project manager with the Bureau, Robert Kershaw, said the calendar showcased a carefully selected portfolio of images representing the diversity of Australia’s highly variable weather and climate.
Mr Kershaw said the calendar was published by the Bureau of Meteorology and the Australian Meteorological and Oceanographic Society and was in its 28th year. It attracted leading photographers from around the world.
He said each month included detailed information on the calendar’s broader theme ‘A Wider Environmental Perspective’ which reflected the Bureau’s expanded role as a provider of environmental information across oceans, air, land, water and space.
“It’s always an extremely challenging and rewarding task to select the images which capture the breadth of our vast country and the Bureau’s expanded role in forecasting services to meet the needs of business and the community,” Mr Kershaw said.
“This year’s cover shows a broad swathe of green light at Australia’s Mawson base in Antarctica, a space weather phenomenon known as aurora australis.”
Mr Kershaw said other highlights included a double rainbow over Wombarra beach on Australia’s east coast, a dust storm in remote northwest Australia, an aerial view of flood plains in Queensland, and a storm approaching the coast in southeast Victoria.
“Of the more than 700 images received this year, often it comes down to some tough decisions in selecting those that are visually stunning, but also represent the broadest possible range of weather phenomena across our land, sea, rivers and skies,” Mr Kershaw said.
The calendar is available from the Bureau.
22 November, 2011
New Court building
to set benchmark
The Supreme Court of Western Australia is to be the centrepiece of the redeveloped St George’s Cathedral heritage precinct in central Perth.
Attorney General, Christian Porter said the Court’s civil courtrooms, mediation rooms, legal library and judicial chambers would occupy 15 floors in the lower section of a new 35-storey office tower to be built as part of the Old Treasury Building redevelopment.
Mr Porter said the development of high-quality accommodation specially designed for the Court would make it ideal for a needed consolidation and future expansion of the Supreme Court.
“The existing historic 1903 building in the Supreme Court Gardens will continue to be used and remain the base for the Court of Appeal,” Mr Porter said.
“The State Administrative Tribunal will also be located in the development which will give Perth a distinct justice precinct, while creating an outstanding new public space in the city.”
He said the Cathedral heritage precinct project would comprise five individual construction programs: conversion of the Old Treasury Buildings into a boutique hotel; construction of a new 35-level tower to house the Supreme Court; full refurbishment of the Public Trustee building, to be renamed Church House; construction of a new City of Perth library; and an underground car park to service the entire site.
“To enable this to occur, the existing Law Chambers Building, which abuts the Public Trustee Building, will be demolished,” Mr Porter said.
“The development of the precinct has required a complex set of agreements between the State and all of the land holders and developers.”
He said the hotel and office tower developments on the Old Treasury Buildings site would be fully financed by developers Mirvac and FJM Aman, with the State providing a long-term ground lease for the site and taking up tenancy of the completed office tower.
“The development is another example of the State achieving value for money and an outstanding design and urban planning outcome through private sector financing and innovation,” Mr Porter said.
“Subject to the finalisation of the agreements, the first works are expected to start in April 2012.”
22 November, 2011
Scientists slug it out
in mollusc project
Scientists from the Western Australian Museum are to take part in a world-wide research project on the diversity of marine life in the world’s oceans.
The marine life at Albany, Esperance and Geographe Bay will all feature in the project.
Minister for Culture and the Arts, John Day said the Marine Barcoding of Life project (MarBOL) would see the Museum’s scientists work with internationally renowned scientists to collect and identify shelled-molluscs.
Mr Day said it was important that WA’s marine life be included in the study due to the high number of species unique to the region.
“Western Australia’s unique marine life has historically been well documented by the museum but recent developments in DNA sampling and barcoding will help scientists to gain a better picture of the evolutionary trends of molluscs in the region,” Mr Day said.
“The information obtained from this study will also allow our scientists to recommend effective strategies for the sustainable management of these marine species.”
He said the MarBOL study used the new technology of DNA barcoding to provide evolutionary context for marine species and the specimens collected during the south-west survey would include sea shells and land snails.
“DNA samples will be extracted to verify the species’ identities and to link DNA barcodes to their scientific names,” Mr Day said.
“The specimens will then be incorporated into the WA Museum’s unique biodiversity collections.”
He said Professor Philippe Bouchet from the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle in Paris and Dr Ellen Strong from the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC would lead the mollusc component of the project.
22 November, 2011
Reproduction aid a
growing business
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) has reported that the use of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) to help women conceive babies in Australia and New Zealand had increased by almost 50 per cent over the five years to 2009.
The report, Assisted reproductive technology in Australia and New Zealand 2009, shows that there were 70,541 ART treatment cycles in Australia and New Zealand in 2009 – a 14 per cent increase on 2008 and a 48 per cent increase on 2005.
Spokesperson for the AIHW, Associate Professor Liz Sullivan said the numbers of ART treatment cycle births grew steadily each year, with recent estimates showing about three per cent of all women who gave birth in Australia receiving some form of ART treatment.
Professor Sullivan said that in the vast majority of ART cycles in 2009, women used their own fresh or frozen eggs, while the remainder used either donor eggs or other forms of ART, such as surrogacy.
She said of the 70,541 cycles in 2009, almost 23 per cent (15,975) resulted in a clinical pregnancy and about 17 per cent (12,127) resulted in the birth of at least one liveborn baby.
She said the rate of multiple birth deliveries for ART treatment dropped to 8.2 per cent in 2009 compared with 8.4 per cent in 2008 and 14.1 per cent in 2005.
“This reduction is due to the continuing uptake of single embryo transfer by clinicians and patients,” Professor Sullivan said.
“Importantly, this substantial decrease in the multiple delivery rate was achieved while clinical pregnancy rates remained stable at around 23 per cent.”
She said about eight per cent of all deliveries resulting from ART in 2009 resulted in the birth of twins and 0.2 per cent resulted in triplets.
The average age of women undergoing ART treatment using their own eggs was 35.8, with almost one in four being 40 or over.
President of the Fertility Society of Australia, Associate Professor Peter Illingworth said advancing women’s age was associated with a decrease in live delivery rates.
“Of those who used their own eggs, the live delivery rate was almost 27 per cent for cycles in women aged 30-40 years, but decreased to less than one per cent for cycles in women aged over 44.”
The full report from the AIHW can be accessed at this PS News link.
22 November, 2011
Resources map is
new resource
The world’s largest satellite-derived geosciences map capturing the entire State of Western Australia has been released by the Minister for Mines and Petroleum, Norman Moore.
Mr Moore said the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection map (ASTER) provided a new generation of satellite information, which would change the way explorers looked for mineral deposits.
“The suite of satellite-derived ASTER products that make up the map will supply basic information about the dominant rock and soil-forming mineral components of WA,” Mr Moore said.
“The resources sector will benefit greatly from access to the map, which provides better characterisation and understanding of the State’s geology.”
He said such innovative projects ensured WA remained an attractive destination for responsible resource development.
Mr Moore said the project was supported by a $300,000 contribution from the State Government’s $80 million Exploration Incentive Scheme (EIS), funded by Royalties for Regions.
He said the ASTER map was a collaboration between the Department of Mines and Petroleum’s (DMP) Geological Survey of Western Australia (GSWA) and the Centre for Three Dimensional Mineral Mapping Centre of Excellence (C3DMM).
He said the project was led by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation’s (CSIRO) Minerals Down Under Flagship.
“CSIRO developed the software and computing capabilities to piece together 14 different surface-composition maps of various mineral suites, resulting from the surface weathering of rocks,” Mr Moore said.
“The WA mosaic is sourced from 12,000 ASTER scenes with about 1,500 used in the final mosaic.
“Each ASTER image is 60km by 60km, with pixel elements ranging from 15m -90m.”
He said the ASTER WA suite of maps was available for purchase from GSWA for $132.
For more information visit this PS News link or this PS News link.
22 November, 2011
Katanning claims
prompt inquiry
An independent inquiry has been ordered into allegations of sexual abuse at a Katanning hostel.
The inquiry will look specifically at the conduct and response of Public Service officials and Government Agencies in relation to the allegations.
Premier, Colin Barnett said former Supreme Court judge Peter Blaxell would lead the inquiry which will have similar powers to a Royal Commission.
Mr Barnett said Justice Blaxell would have the power to compel witnesses to attend and to require them to produce documents and give evidence under oath.
“A number of current and former public officials and members of the public have recently made public comments that their concerns about the conduct of a public officer at the St Andrew’s Hostel in Katanning were ignored and not dealt with appropriately,” Mr Barnett said.
“Serious questions have been raised about the response to complaints of abuse of children at the hostel.
“Those questions must be answered.”
He said all Government Agencies and officers of Agencies would be required to fully and openly co-operate with the inquiry and provide access to all information, documentation or other records as requested by the inquirer.
Mr Barnett said Local government Agencies would be expected to co-operate in the same terms.
“Any issues relating to criminal behaviour that arise in the course of the inquiry will be referred to WA Police,” he said.
“The inquiry will also refer any allegations of corruption to the Corruption and Crime Commission.”
He said a 24-hour hotline (1800 227 792) had been set up to assist members of the public with queries about the special inquiry and the Department of Child Protection was also boosting the support services available in Katanning with an additional social worker made available to assist former students and family members.
Mr Barnett said Justice Blaxell would report by early June 2012.
Queries regarding the special inquiry can be directed to blaxellinquiry@psc.wa.gov.au
22 November, 2011
Prisoners lock in
qualifications
A partnership between the C.Y.O’Connor Institute and Acacia Prison has delivered tangible training outcomes for prisoners determined to forge a new path in life.
Minister for Training and Workforce Development, Peter Collier presented certificates and statements of attainment to 87 student inmates who had undertaken training courses in small business management, financial services, or micro-business operations while in prison.
Mr Collier said the latest graduation was the third in the five years since the private company Serco had been contracted to operate Acacia, which could house 1,000 prisoners.
“Many of the people who are studying are looking to improve their opportunities and develop their skills as part of their rehabilitation by arming themselves with valuable educational tools that will assist them in building a brighter future,” Mr Collier said.
“This initiative allows unskilled or semi-skilled people, many who speak English as a second language, to make the most of economic and social opportunities now and in the future.”
He said as part of their training, some of the students prepared business plans to help set up businesses while others planned to undertake more training after leaving Acacia.
22 November, 2011
Artificial reef
the real thing
The trial of the first artificial reef in West Australian waters has been given the go-ahead for Geographe Bay on the South West coast.
Minister for Fisheries, Norman Moore said the South-West Recreational Fishing Enhancement Pilot Project was designed to increase available habitat for key fish species.
“If these structures meet their potential, they will benefit the local environment and local communities; complement Western Australia’s robust and adaptive fisheries’ management approach; and help ensure fish stocks are kept sustainable,” Mr Moore said.
He said the project announcement followed the signing of an agreement between the State Government and the Korea Fisheries Resources Agency to share information on the development of artificial reefs and sustainable fisheries management, for mutual benefit.
He said the Memorandum of Understanding would allow the Department of Fisheries and the Agency to identify and harness opportunities for research and development projects and facilitate the transfer of expertise, technology and capacity.
“This agreement represents a unique opportunity for our State to learn and benefit from work the Korea Fisheries Resources Agency has put into artificial reef development as we consider these structures as a potential option to help ensure future fish stocks are kept sustainable,” he said.
“At the same time, the agency will have access to WA advice and expertise on matters related to the management of fish stocks, including monitoring and assessment, fisheries compliance and aquatic biosecurity.”
Mr Moore said the Federal Government’s proposed marine sanctuary within Geographe Bay may prevent it being used as a focal area for the trial.
“The State Government will be making strong representation to the Federal Government to ensure the bay is available for all users, including fishers,” he said.
22 November, 2011
Woylies bounce back
in DEC project
The woylie conservation project in the South-West being run by the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) has seen numbers of the endangered marsupial double in less than a year.
Minister for the Environment, Bill Marmion said in December 2010, 41 woylies were released by DEC into Perup Sanctuary, a predator-free 420ha enclosure and recent radio-tracking and trapping had revealed there were now more than 83 woylies in the sanctuary.
“The population has doubled in less than a year, which is a really promising result considering this species has been declining rapidly in the past few years,” Mr Marmion said.
“The woylie population growth rate is on track to meet the aim that the sanctuary will support at least 400 woylies within the next five to 10 years.”
He said the fact that woylies were doing so well in areas where predators had been excluded showed that predation was playing a major role in limiting the recovery of the species, which had undergone a dramatic and mysterious decline in the past decade.
“State Government Agencies and others are working hard to determine the reasons for these declines so we can prevent this important species from becoming extinct,” he said.
“DEC is controlling feral cat and fox populations across key areas of the State through its Western Shield wildlife recovery program, which involves extensive baiting and reintroduction of native animals into their former range.”
Mr Marmion said researchers were also looking at the role disease may have been playing in the decline.
“Major collaborators in the research program include DEC, Murdoch University, Perth Zoo, Australian Wildlife Conservancy, the South Australian Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Warren Catchment Council, the Federal Government’s Caring For Our Country program and The University of Western Australia,” he said.
22 November, 2011
And in Other News...
Beach wheelchair for hire
A new wheelchair to assist people with disability to access Scarborough beach is to be available for free use, every day, from January.
The freewheeler beach wheelchair is funded by a $5,500 grant from the State Government as part of the Accessible Community grants program.
A tandem wheelchair bicycle; automatic doors; beach matting; audio equipment to assist hearing at meetings; pool hoists; and accessible playground equipment are among other projects supported by the grants.
Shark funding increased
New funding to establish a Shark Response Unit has been announced.
$13.65million is to be spent over the next five years to help reduce the potential risk of shark attacks in response to a review of the State’s shark mitigation strategies.
The new strategies will include more helicopter and beach patrols and support for four shark-related research projects.
The announcement follows three tragic incidents this year.
Partygoers warned
Party organisers booking vessels for Christmas functions have been warned to check the vessel was registered to operate as a commercial vessel and met safety requirements.
All vessels should have a current Certificate of Survey outlining their area of operation, maximum number of passengers and required number of crew.
In the weeks leading up to Christmas Marine Officers from the Department of Transport are to patrol waterways monitoring compliance and conducting inspections.
New school for Esperance
Construction of the new Esperance Primary School is set to begin within months.
The new school, scheduled for completion by February 2013, will replace the original buildings and create new recreation spaces for more than 500 students.
The replacement school will include 12 classrooms with air-cooling; an early childhood block with a kindergarten classroom; two pre-primary classrooms; and two general classrooms.
It will also feature a covered area with a canteen and stores; oval; cricket nets; hard-courts; and parking, as well as an administration block with dental therapy.
15 November, 2011
Historic documents
law on the shelf
A new law has been proposed to allow the State Library of Western Australia to collect and protect important public documents relating to the State’s cultural heritage.
Minister for Culture and the Arts, John Day said the Legal Deposit Bill 2011 would ensure the preservation of WA’s published documentary heritage for current and future generations.
“Legal deposit legislation will be welcomed by historians, researchers, librarians and all those who use and value our documentary cultural heritage,” Mr Day said.
“West Australians will benefit from this legislation as it will provide them with comprehensive coverage and access to the published record of the State’s economic, social, creative, scientific and educational activities for centuries to come.”
He said the Bill would put WA at the forefront of Australian States in terms of the range of materials to be deposited.
“The Bill is deliberately broad in scope to ensure any document related to the heritage of WA will be collected, regardless of length, format and medium,” he said.
“The definition of materials to be deposited under this legislation is very broad.”
Mr Day said that as the means by which information was disseminated had changed, the capture of digital information to record the State’s history and culture was now critically important.
He said legal deposit would extend to commercial publishers, as well as private individuals and organisations and would include published government information.
He said it would exclude public records as defined by the State Records Act 2000.
15 November, 2011
Audit report brings
Agencies to book
The Auditor General has issued his annual report on the results of his financial audits over the past year and once again has found areas of concern.
Acting Auditor General, Glen Clarke said his Audit Results Report – Annual 2010-11 Assurance Audits covered 160 audit opinions and 88 certifications.
He said six Agencies receiving qualified audit reports.
Mr Clarke said overall Agencies had improved their annual financial reporting and more than half were now rated as ‘better practice’.
“Encouragingly, significant ‘financial control deficiencies’ fell 20 per cent and significant and moderate ‘information system control’ weaknesses fell 12 per cent,” Mr Clarke said.
He said the Agencies receiving the ‘qualified’ opinions were the Department of Agriculture and Food, the Department for Communities, the Legal Contribution Trust, the WA Country Health Service, the WA Land Information Authority and the Metropolitan Public Hospitals.
He said an area of concern was the increase in deficiencies in key performance indicators (KPIs) with 79 deficiencies discovered over the year compared to 45 last year, but that was partly a result of putting a greater focus onto KPIs this year.
“An ongoing issue again identified in this latest report is the lengthy delay in the tabling of annual Statements of Corporate Intent (SCIs) of government corporations,” Mr Clarke said.
“At 30 September 2011, the SCIs of 11 of the 23 agencies had not been tabled by the responsible Minister.”
The Acting Auditor General expected all Agencies to take note and act on the findings of the report.
He recommended that Agencies ensure that management control deficiencies brought to their attention during their audit were addressed to ensure the continuing integrity of their financial control environment and accuracy of financial reporting.
He said all Agencies should take appropriate action to address issues reported to them and ensure that their KPIs remained relevant and appropriate, and fairly presented their performance.
Mr Clarke also called for Statements of Corporate Intent to be tabled within timeframes required by the relevant legislation.
The complete Audit Results Report: Annual 2010-11 Assurance Audits can be accessed at this PS News link.
15 November, 2011
Elvis on song to
help bushfires
The world-renowned flying bushfire tanker ‘Elvis’ has been booked to help protect WA communities during the coming bushfire season.
The giant Erickson Skycrane water bomber is part of an expenditure program of more than $6.25 million for additional specialised fire fighting equipment this year. ‘Elvis’ is to cost $3.8 million.
Minister for Emergency Services, Rob Johnson said Elvis was capable of dropping 9,500 litres of water in a single load, which was more than double the amount of Type 1 water bombers and nine times the amount of the smaller Helitac water bombers.
“‘Elvis’ will play a key role in protecting homes located in the urban and rural interface such as the Perth Hills, which are at high risk of bushfire,” Mr Johnson said.
“The funding to purchase five new fire appliances and re-equip four appliances as part of a roving standby fleet will support career and volunteers firefighters in the metropolitan area, as well as in the North-West and South-West of the State, depending on the fire season.”
He said while the use of the aircraft and new appliances would reduce the fire risk to life and property, the community also needed to take responsibility and ensure their properties were well prepared and that they had a survival plan.
Minister for the Environment, Bill Marmion said the trial of the Erikson Skycrane was a welcome boost in bushfire suppression this season and would allow the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) and Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) to evaluate the effectiveness of the larger aircraft.
“This aircraft will enhance our aerial fleet in its key role to support our ground crews to protect lives and property and will ensure we are better equipped to respond to major bushfires,” Mr Marmion said.
“In addition, DEC also maintains a specialised fleet of trucks, heavy equipment and fire spotter aircraft, as well as extensive networks of roads, tracks and bridges, water sources, lookout towers and communications, which are all vital in bushfire suppression and mitigation efforts.”
15 November, 2011
Website tightens net
around offenders
A new website that provides information on sex offenders in the community has been proposed by the Minister for Police, Rob Johnson as way of helping parents protect their children.
Mr Johnson said the new laws that set up the website would also strike a balance between the rights of parents to have the information and the need to ensure proper management of sex offenders by WA Police.
He said the public would be able to access information about sex offenders through the website which would provide for three levels of disclosure about offenders.
He said Tier 1 would notify the public about at-large reportable sex offenders who had gone underground; Tier 2 would make the public aware of repeat or highly dangerous sex offenders in their general locality through a request process; and Tier 3 would allow parents and guardians to determine if a person with direct access to their children was a reportable offender.
Mr Johnson said both he and Attorney General Christian Porter had worked together to develop the legislation.
He said Tier 3 of the proposed register was based on UK legislation, which was trialled in two police districts in 2007 and resulted in 311 applications for information which revealed 21 positive disclosures.
“That is 21 instances where a parent was able to be notified that a sex offender had access to their child,” he said.
“The trial found no examples of vigilante action during the course of the trial and has since been expanded to cover all UK police districts.”
Mr Johnson said safeguards, including records of persons accessing the website, and strict penalties for misusing information , would be in place to ensure the register was used only to improve the safety of the community.
15 November, 2011
City reserve given up
without reservation
The City of Perth has decided to hand over the Esplanade Reserve to the State Government so it can become part of the Perth Waterfront Project.
The City holds freehold title to the 4.8 hectares of land which also houses the Alan Green Conservatory, The Landing performance stage, Alf Curlewis Gardens and the Florence Hummerston Building.
Lord Mayor, Lisa Scaffidi said the Council was a committed and enthusiastic partner in the Perth Waterfront Project and for that reason it was supportive of the State taking the area at no cost rather acquiring it compulsorily and paying compensation.
“The significance of this agreement should not be underestimated,” Ms Scaffidi said.
“The Esplanade Reserve is a significant and historic city asset but if we are to achieve the modern city we aspire to, then we are willing to forgo that asset as our contribution to the Waterfront Project.”
She said the City’s Strategic Plan sought to ensure that the Council had meaningful input into the project to see it properly integrated with the city as a whole.
“In line with this strategy, it is important that Council be represented on the Land Redevelopment Committee that is to be established to oversee the project,” she said.
“The Council also believes the value of the City’s contribution to the project should be publicly recognised, based on the valuation of the land and buildings, using the reinstatement method of valuation.”
Ms Scaffidi said the City wanted the State Government to enhance the Supreme Court Gardens as a ceremonial space and venue for outdoor events as a way of off-setting the loss of the Esplanade Reserve.
“Another issue to be resolved is the relocation of the Florence Hummerston Building which is currently occupied by a restaurant on a long-term Council lease,” she said.
“The Council has authorised Chief Executive Officer Frank Edwards to sign the application for development to commence and for subdivision approval, subject to the State Government agreeing not to undertake any development until the Land Title has been transferred.”
15 November, 2011
Migrant directory
migrates to web
A new online directory of the services available to newly-arrived migrants and refugees has been officially launched by the Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Interests, John Castrilli.
Mr Castrilli said the Catalogue of Settlement Services and Programs would improve co-ordination and the delivery of services by State and Federal Government Agencies.
“The online directory is an initiative of the Interagency Settlement Group (ISG) which was set up in August 2009 by myself and the then Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans,” Mr Castrilli said.
“One of the major projects for the ISG has been the development of an online, searchable catalogue of services for use by government agencies, non-government organisations and individuals.”
He said areas of priority were education, employment, health, housing, justice, language services, transport, civic participation, and family and social support.
Mr Castrilli said the information was collected as part of a national cataloguing of programs and services provided in each State and Territory and WA was the first jurisdiction to place it online.
He said the ISG had also developed an action plan to address feedback from non-government organisations and community groups regarding information raised at a community consultation in September 2010.
He said the Office of Multicultural Interests would monitor the action plan and report on its progress.
The online directory can be accessed at this PS News link.
15 November, 2011
WA king of the kids for
kindergarten access
The latest annual report on access to early childhood services has found that Western Australia is performing well according to the Federal Minister for Early Childhood, Peter Garrett.
Mr Garrett said the Commonwealth was spending $970 million on helping provide every Australian four-year-old with 15 hours of kindergarten a week for 40 weeks a year, delivered by a university-trained teacher, by 2013.
“Nationally, the reports confirm that more Australian children than ever before are accessing preschool or kindergarten, with four in five children enrolled last year and attending for an average of more than 13 hours a week,” he said.
“More than a third of children are already attending for 15 hours a week just two years into the five-year rollout of the universal access commitment.”
He said Western Australia was already well advanced in early childhood education access, and in 2010 had increased its enrolment rate from 95.5 per cent of children in the year before school, to 97.5 per cent – above the universal access target of 95 per cent.
“Children were attending kindergarten for an average of 12 hours a week, a great result,” Mr Garrett said.
“There are still some challenges ahead for Western Australia, but it is out in front compared to most other States, especially given that these results are from last year.”
He said other results in the 2010 annual report found Western Australia had maintained its estimated Indigenous enrolment at more than 95 per cent, and had seen an increase in attendance to 80 per cent; there were now 812 full time equivalent teachers in early childhood education, compared to 584 in 2009; and weekly costs to parents had remained low.
“Given more than 60 per cent of Commonwealth funding has yet to come, I look forward to Western Australia’s results continuing to build to the 2013 target,” he said.
“We know that all States face challenges in some form, and we will continue working with them to help them find the best solution that fits their needs, including by allowing a range of flexible models to help them increase kindergarten hours.”
The annual reports can be accessed at this PS News link.
15 November, 2011
WorkSafe blast for
cyclone centres
WorkSafe WA has issued a warning to businesses in the North-West to ensure they have cyclone contingency plans in place now that the season has opened.
Acting WorkSafe Commissioner, Lex McCulloch said it was crucial that everyone on sea and land knew what to do when there was a cyclone in the area.
“The cyclone season officially began on 1 November and under WA’s occupational safety and health laws, employers must have adequate plans and provide adequate training to protect workers in the event of a cyclone,” Mr McCulloch said.
“The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast a slightly higher than average number of tropical cyclones in the waters off the North-West coast this season.”
He said the Bureau had forecast that the area could expect around two coastal impacts, with one of those likely to be severe.
“The tragic circumstances surrounding Cyclone George in 2007 demonstrated that it only takes one cyclone to cause significant damage and suffering,” Mr McCulloch said.
“WorkSafe has for many years issued reminders to the fishing industry to ensure contingency plans are in place, but the Cyclone George experience prompted the reminder to be extended to land areas as well.”
He said the North-West of WA continued to experience a high level of activity and there were a huge number of workers in the area, including workplaces with employees of several companies all working on the same site.
“It is particularly important that emergency evacuation plans are coordinated so every worker – regardless of their employer – knows exactly what he or she needs to do in the event of a cyclone threat,” he said.
“Fishing vessels need to keep a list of sheltered anchorages and have information on how to use them, along with a specific action plan for each vessel depending on the distance from the cyclone and safe havens.”
He said employers should not leave anything to chance when a cyclone was threatening, and must make sure safe work practices were in place well before a cyclone was in their vicinity.
“Everyone in the workplace – whether a fishing vessel or any other workplace – should be trained in the cyclone contingency plan and follow all instructions given when a cyclone is approaching,” Mr McCulloch said.
He said more information on planning for a cyclone was available from this PS News link or this PS News link.
15 November, 2011
School trial
passes test
The success of WA’s independent public school initiative has encouraged the Commonwealth to press ahead with its plan to give parents and principals across Australia a bigger say in school decision making.
Federal Minister for School Education, Peter Garrett said the WA experience was “proof that the model of offering schools more autonomy reaps big benefits for schools and students.”
“We know from international experience that schools with more autonomy tend to show improved results,” Mr Garrett said.
He said more schools were set to benefit as the Commonwealth’s Empowering Local Schools initiative was rolled out across 1,000 schools nation-wide from next year.
“Principals have a unique knowledge and understanding of their school and the needs of their students, and are in the best position to make the decisions which impacts on their students’ results,” he said.
“All States and territories agreed to the scheme earlier this year and we’re now working with them on how it can be implemented.”
He said the Federal Government would spend $69.1 million on the initiative in the first phase, and a total of $480 million until 2018.
15 November, 2011
Reproduction aid a
growing business
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) has reported that the use of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) to help women conceive babies in Australia and New Zealand had increased by almost 50 per cent over the five years to 2009.
The report, Assisted reproductive technology in Australia and New Zealand 2009, shows that there were 70,541 ART treatment cycles in Australia and New Zealand in 2009 – a 14 per cent increase on 2008 and a 48 per cent increase on 2005.
Spokesperson for the AIHW, Associate Professor Liz Sullivan said the numbers of ART treatment cycle births grew steadily each year, with recent estimates showing about three per cent of all women who gave birth in Australia received some form of ART treatment.
Professor Sullivan said that in the vast majority of ART cycles in 2009, women used their own fresh or frozen eggs, while the remainder used either donor eggs or other forms of ART, such as surrogacy.
She said of the 70,541 cycles in 2009, almost 23 per cent (15,975) resulted in a clinical pregnancy and about 17 per cent (12,127) resulted in the birth of at least one liveborn baby.
She said the rate of multiple birth deliveries for ART treatment dropped to 8.2 per cent in 2009 compared with 8.4 per cent in 2008 and 14.1 per cent in 2005.
“This reduction is due to the continuing uptake of single embryo transfer by clinicians and patients,” Professor Sullivan said.
“Importantly, this substantial decrease in the multiple delivery rate was achieved while clinical pregnancy rates remained stable at around 23 per cent.”
She said about eight per cent of all deliveries resulting from ART in 2009 resulted in the birth of twins and 0.2 per cent resulted in triplets.
The average age of women undergoing ART treatment using their own eggs was 35.8, with almost one in four being 40 or over.
President of the Fertility Society of Australia, Associate Professor Peter Illingworth said advancing women’s age was associated with a decrease in live delivery rates.
“Of those who used their own eggs, the live delivery rate was almost 27 per cent for cycles in women aged 30-40 years, but decreased to less than one per cent for cycles in women aged over 44.”
The full report from the AIHW can be accessed at this PS News link.
15 November, 2011
Sporting kids win
registration help
Up to 30,000 budding young sportspeople are to be given a leg-up by the State Government which has launched a scheme to pay their sport registration fees.
Premier Colin Barnett said the $10 million KidSport initiative would provide registration fee relief for children who may have been prevented from joining sport and recreation clubs because of their financial circumstances.
“Under the scheme, eligible children aged between five and 18 years will receive membership fee subsidies of up to $200 annually, with no restrictions on the number of children assisted in the same family,” Mr Barnett said.
“While the primary objective of KidSport is to ensure all WA children can participate in sport and recreation clubs, its secondary objective is to engage these children and their families in the community.”
Minister for Sport and Recreation, Terry Waldron said he was a firm believer in the important role that sport and recreation played in the development of healthy children and healthy communities.
“Physical activity improves health, school performance and decision making skills,” Mr Waldron said.
“Club membership provides children and their families with positive role models, new friendships and opportunities for community engagement.”
He said Local Governments had a unique role to play in the KidSport initiative and would partner with the Department of Sport and Recreation as administrators of the program.
“Already 13 local government authorities have agreed to become KidSport sites and a further 21 Local Governments are expected to sign up for the winter season,” he said.
15 November, 2011
Coastal awards draw
line in the sand
The 2011 Western Australian Coastal Awards for Excellence have been presented by the Minister for Planning, John Day, in Perth.
Coordinated by the Department of Planning and the Western Australian Planning Commission’s Coastwest program, the awards acknowledge and reward the commitment to WA’s vast coastline by community groups, individuals, organisations, Government Agencies and Local Governments.
Mr Day said the awards demonstrated how much work was undertaken by individuals and groups to manage and enhance the State’s coastline.
“The Great Southern region figured prominently in the 2011 Awards for Excellence - winning four awards of the six categories - and I congratulate all the winners for their conservation efforts and for actively working towards its preservation and rehabilitation of the WA coast,” Mr Day said.
He said it was good to see a variety of nominations received from all along the WA coast.
“Nominations were received from Broome to Bremer Bay and the level of dedication shown by all those who were nominated proved a difficult task for the judging panel.”
Mr Day said the panel was chaired by the State Coastwest Coordinator and was comprised of representatives from Perth Region Natural Resource Management Incorporated; Western Australian Local Government Association; Coastal Planning and Coordination Council; and the Department of Planning.
He said the Awards were conducted every two years.
A full list of the Coastal Awards winners can be accessed at this PS News link.
15 November, 2011
Mid-west planning off
the drawing board
A draft framework for future regional planning and infrastructure development in the State’s Mid-West has been released for public comment.
Minister for Planning, John Day said the draft Mid West Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework provided an approach that would build on the characteristics and opportunities of one of the State’s key economic and cultural regions.
“The release of this framework by the Government provides strategic policy direction and infrastructure co-ordination for an important region in Western Australia,” Mr Day said.
“The Mid-West’s strategic location in central WA between the resources centre of the North-West and the Perth metropolitan region - and its proximity to key Asian markets - gives it an undeniable advantage.”
He said the framework would enable the Mid-West to continue to develop as a robust economy, yet respond to the increasing challenges posed by the economy and environment.
“The importance of the region to not only WA, and its indigenous people, but also the nation, will increase as it develops its potential as a place to live, work and invest,” he said.
“The integration of regional planning and infrastructure decisions will help maximise opportunities to attract private and public investment for the region’s communities and key stakeholders.”
Mr Day said the Mid West Regional Planning Committee, in consultation with the Western Australian Planning Commission’s Infrastructure Coordinating Committee, and the Mid West Development Commission, would advise the Government on the priorities and progress of the Mid-West region.
He said public consultation would be open until 20 January, 2012 and the draft framework was available at this PS News link.
15 November, 2011
Fisheries Officers
net offender
Not having a fishing or boat licence and obstructing Fisheries Officers doing their job has cost a 23 year-old Baldivis man almost $3,000 in fines, penalties and court costs.
Rockingham Court was told two uniformed Fisheries and Marine Officers had approached the accused and another man who were retrieving a vessel from the water at Rockingham’s Palm Beach Boat Ramp.
The Court heard that when asked whether he had any crabs, the accused took an esky from the vessel removed two crabs from it and threw them into the water without warning.
It found that by throwing the crabs into the water, the offender had prevented the officers from measuring them and fined him $1,500.
He was also fined $700, plus an additional mandatory penalty of $40, for having a spawning female (a totally protected fish) among the crabs remaining in the esky.
He was then fined $600 for not having the required licence and also ordered to pay court costs of $121.95.
South Metro Compliance Manager at the Department of Fisheries, John Breeden said while most fishers did the right thing, this case was a reminder that everyone was required to follow the lawful direction of Fisheries and Marine Officers.
“The Officers have a job to do to ensure that Western Australia’s fishing rules are enforced and there is a community expectation that we do that,” Mr Breeden said.
“It is up to fishers to be aware of whether or not they need a licence for the fishing activity they are involved in and what the rules apply to the species they are targeting.”
15 November, 2011
Travelling nurses on
mission of mercy
Twenty West Australian student nurses are to travel to Tanzania to broaden their skills and experience while providing care to those in need.
Minister for Health, Kim Hames said the nurses would make the trip with expert clinicians and undertake placements at Mission Mikocheni Hospital which was attached to the Hubert Kairuki Memorial University; and Amana Hospital in the Tanzanian former capital city of Dar Es Salaam.
Dr Hames said they would also spend time at two rural clinics in the surrounding region.
He said it was the second tranche of students to travel to Tanzania from WA under the program.
“Our nurses will learn invaluable skills, working in a unique environment where quality health care is much needed,” he said.
“Not only will it broaden their cultural awareness but also better prepare them to be a part of improved health care delivery in rural and remote WA.”
Dr Hames said the international placements were funded through grants provided by the Global Health Alliance Western Australia.
He said the grants were part of State Government funding to the alliance to provide aid and clinical expertise to developing countries.
He said the 20 grant recipients chosen included Sophie Henry, Daniel Ballenger, Sasha Webb Ware, Regan Preston, Sarah Duckworth, Rhiannon Italiano, Claire Bammer, Tor Nilsen, Sibaunne Mumford-Holmes, Kamarra Morris, Robin Benson and Brooke Hunter.
Dr Hames said Katherine Powell, Melanie Walker, Chloe Obst, Claire Hutchinson, Tarnee Bidzinski, Jessee Jenson, Emma Egerton-Warburton and Danielle Ovens were also awarded grants.
He said the Global Health Alliance Western Australia was an initiative of the Department of Health’s Nursing and Midwifery Office and was established in December 2009 to allow WA nurses and midwives to work in the developing world to improve their own skills, as well as train and educate health workers in those countries.
15 November, 2011
Forest management
logs onto south-west
A new forest management plan is being developed by the Conservation Commission of WA and the Department of Environment and Conservation with consultations beginning with interested stakeholders.
The new Plan will cover about 2.5 million hectares in the State’s south-west.
Minister for the Environment, Bill Marmion said the plan would set out, in a transparent manner, the principles and rules by which the State’s forests and timber reserves would be managed.
“This includes the forests and timber reserves in the State’s south-west, extending from Moore River to the South Coast,” Mr Marmion said.
“It is important that input from key stakeholders is obtained early in the consultation process.
“Initially, this will be with Government Agencies.”
He said consultations would then move to key stakeholder groups such as the Conservation Council of WA and Forest Industries Federation of WA.
“The non-statutory consultation process will help ensure the views of key stakeholder groups are considered so that biodiversity is conserved; ecosystems are sustained; and the social, cultural and economic benefits valued by the community are given full consideration,” he said.
Mr Marmion said discussions had been held with the Environmental Protection Authority, which would be required to assess the plan.
“It is anticipated that a draft management plan will be released for public comment about mid-2012,” he said.
15 November, 2011
And in Other News...
Work study open
Submissions are open for Australia’s first formal investigation into the rise of insecure work.
The Independent Inquiry into Insecure Work has been commissioned by the ACTU to analyse the increase in casual, contract, labour hire and other forms of insecure work in Australia over recent decades, and the impact it has on workplace rights, household finances, and wider society.
Submissions can be lodged until 16 December, and the Inquiry will hold public hearings early next year.
The terms of reference and more details can be obtained from this PS News link.
Fire agencies prepare
Western Australia’s fire agencies have tested their preparations for the coming season in a major Statewide multiagency bushfire exercise.
The exercise took place across six regions and involved the Fire and Emergency Services Authority, Department of Environment and Conservation, Local Government, Western Australia Police and the Department for Child Protection.
Legal lobsters shorter
The minimum size for recreationally-caught western rock lobsters has been reduced.
The size has dropped from 77 millimetres to 76 millimetres to encourage more catches.
The reduction is expected to help the State’s recreational rock lobster fishers achieve the five per cent catch allocation assigned to them.
Bay markers replaced
The Department of Transport is to fast track work to install navigation markers at the entrance to Herring Bay at Garden Island.
Discussions with the local boating community following the removal of unofficial markers last month resulted in a decision to install new markers as soon as possible.
The location of the network of new markers is within waters controlled by the Department of Defence which has given approval for the installation.
It is expected the new markers will be in place by Christmas.
Youth Centre opened
The new Carnarvon Youth Justice Services centre has opened.
The centre is dedicated to youth justice issues in the Mid-West Gascoyne region.
The region’s Youth Justice Services was launched in 2008, but has until now shared facilities with the branch of the Department of Corrective Services which manages adult offenders.
8 November, 2011
Emergency planning
in safe hands
More than 150 personnel from the State’s emergency services agencies have come together for their annual outlook session in preparation for the bushfire and cyclone season ahead.
The briefing involved operational staff from the Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA); Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC); Bureau of Meteorology; WA Police; and Local Governments.
Minister for Emergency Services, Rob Johnson said collaboration between agencies was a key focus for the State Government and all agencies were working together to be as prepared as possible to protect West Australians during the season.
“Community safety is the priority this summer and with cyclones predicted in the north and bushfires expected throughout the State, there’s no part of WA that can afford to be unprepared,” Mr Johnson said.
“The Seasonal Outlook is an important opportunity to ensure that all the different agencies do have a clear understanding of changes to operations management and State operational plans and can discuss any issues with their counterparts.”
He said FESA had been working in partnership with the DEC, other Departments and Local Governments to implement the major recommendations from the Perth Hills Bushfire Review and other reports following the fires last season.
Minister for the Environment, Bill Marmion said DEC had been taking every opportunity to undertake prescribed burns, particularly near communities in the Darling Scarp.
“For the period 1 July to 27 October 2011, DEC has either completed or begun 42 burns over an area of 12,034ha in the area between Moore River and Waroona,” Mr Marmion said.
“This is 10 more burns than this time last year, when DEC were hampered by an extremely dry winter and a lack of spring rain.”
More information on preparations for the coming season can be obtained from this PS News link.
8 November, 2011
Union hits out at
outsourcing
The Community and Public Sector Union/Civil Service Association (CPSU/CSA) has criticised a decision by the Government to outsource services for a new Young Adults Facility in Murdoch.
The Government has announced that operation of the first-of-its-kind facility is to be contracted to Serco Australia Pty Ltd.
Secretary of the CPSU/CSA, Toni Walkington said the decision to outsource the new facility would be “disastrous” for the State and put public safety at risk.
“Private companies exist to make profits for their shareholders,” Ms Walkington said.
“They do not exist to keep the community safe.
“Over recent months serious doubts have been cast over multi-nationals and their management of prisons, detention centres and public services.”
She said a recent comprehensive evaluation of public versus private management of a new facility showed there was no benefit to the State from outsourcing the facility.
Minister for Corrective Services, Terry Redman said the Young Adults facility would accommodate up to 80 male offenders aged 18 to 24 years at what was currently the Rangeview Juvenile Remand Centre in Murdoch.
He said the operation and maintenance of the facility was tendered after it was determined that private operators could bring a wealth of specific experience and innovation to the initiative.
“An extensive evaluation was undertaken to assess Serco’s tender against the standards set by the Government,” Mr Redman said.
“The performance of the operator will be closely monitored by the Department and the independent Inspector of Custodial Services to ensure standards are met.”
Mr Redman said the selection of Serco as the preferred respondent was the culmination of more than two years of extensive work on the Young Adults Facility.
8 November, 2011
Gas report takes
pressure off
An independent report into the Department of Mines and Petroleum’s (DMP) Regulation of ‘unconventional’ gas activity has found them to be managing the risks adequately.
In her report Regulation of Shale, Coal Seam and Tight Gas Activities Report, Dr Tina Hunter provides an independent assessment of the existing regulatory framework governing the onshore gas industry in Western Australia, under the Petroleum and Geothermal Energy Resources Act 1967 (WA).
Executive Director of environment at DMP, Dr Phil Gorey said the report also outlined areas of improvement in legal enforceability.
“The report recommended strengthening of legislation through a number of enhancements to Regulations along with improved transparency through the public release of approved Environment Management Plans (EMPs), regulatory processes and compliance measures,” Dr Gorey said.
He said while amendments to Regulation were being finalised, the Department was encouraging companies to publicly disclose their EMPs, including all chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing.
He said DMP had also undertaken other initiatives recently to ensure WA’s regulatory framework met global best practice, while being supported by appropriate and transparent processes, standards and guidelines.
“DMP has reviewed this advice and is implementing a comprehensive reform package to strengthen our regulatory framework,” he said.
“The DMP reform package will propose legislative amendments to strengthen enforcement provisions for regulators, mandate full disclosure of chemicals and public release of approved EMPs.”
Dr Gorey said unconventional gas had attracted an increased level of interest in WA and the extraction process involved rock formations undergoing hydraulic stimulation, also known as fraccing.
“DMP is preparing new Environment Management Regulations, which are expected to be released for stakeholder input by the end of 2011,” he said.
“The new Resource Management Regulations are expected to be released for stakeholder input by mid 2012.”
He said both sets of Regulations would be in place in 2012.
Dr Hunter’s full report and the Department’s response are available at this PS News link.
8 November, 2011
New timetable
fixes elections
A new law that fixes the date of future State elections as the second Saturday in March every four years has been passed by Parliament.
Minister for Electoral Affairs, Norman Moore said the Electoral and Constitutional Amendment Bill 2011 was a significant reform that had attracted the support of the political parties.
“The WA Electoral Commission will now have certainty in planning for the 2013 election and for subsequent polls,” Mr Moore said.
“The legislation is based on the existing fixed four-year term of the Legislative Council, providing for a joint general election when the Legislative Assembly is dissolved or expires after 1 November in the year prior to the Legislative Council election.”
He said from now on, Legislative Assembly elections would also have to be held on the second Saturday in March.
“The Governor’s constitutional right to dissolve the Legislative Assembly remains, however if such a dissolution occurred before 1 November 2012, it would apply only to the Assembly and not to both Houses,” he said.
“A separate election for the Legislative Council would still need to be held on the fixed date of the second Saturday in March.”
Mr Moore said it was clear the electors would reject any Government that deliberately caused an additional expensive election for its political advantage.
“Governments would therefore be unable to manipulate the date of an election, whether to avoid scrutiny or to ambush the Opposition,” he said.
“Parliamentary committees, business and community groups, and electors travelling overseas would no longer run the risk of being caught out.”
He said under the new laws, an election could be deferred to the next available Saturday in exceptional circumstances, but that would require the agreement of the Leader of the Opposition.
Mr Moore said while New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, the Northern Territory and the ACT now all had fixed election dates, the relevant legislation was different in order to fit the requirements of State and Territory constitutions.
8 November, 2011
Lotto syndicates
back a winner
Lotterywest has simplified the sale of Lotto syndicates for its retailers, promising to make them more popular, reliable and affordable.
Premier Colin Barnett said changes to the Lotteries Commission Act would give lottery ticket retailers a new option to offer their players.
“A ticket into a Lotto syndicate has always been a very popular choice by many Lotto players,” Mr Barnett said.
“This initiative will give retailers a wider choice of tickets to offer their players and the removal of the risk of them being left with unsold shares in the syndicates will make a big difference to the small businesses which sell Lotterywest products.”
He said that in the past, retailers had to set up the syndicates manually and could only give the players a receipt slip, not a proper ticket.
He said even with the changes Lotterywest made a year ago, allowing syndicate tickets to be produced from the Lotto terminal, Lotterywest retailers still carried the risk of being left with unsold shares.
“This change to the Act means Lotterywest will now be able to set up syndicates for all its retailers to sell throughout the State,” Mr Barnett said.
“Even smaller retailers and those in remote parts of the State will now be able to offer their players affordable tickets into very large systems entries, which are very popular, especially for superdraws and bigger Lotto jackpots.”
He said the new system would be available early in the New Year.
“Lotterywest estimates that these changes will generate an additional $10 million of ticket sales a year,” the Premier said.
“That means another $3 million will be raised for the community and Lotterywest retailers will benefit from the increased commission that they stand to earn,” he said.
8 November, 2011
Water account takes
water into account
Australia’s first National Water Account, produced by the Bureau of Meteorology, has been described as a landmark achievement in the accurate reporting on one of the nation’s most important natural resources.
Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and Urban Water, Senator Don Farrell said the National Water Account brought together more than 30 Water Agencies and reporting partners to provide the most comprehensive snapshot of water information available in Australia.
“It is recognised around the world that water plays a key role in prosperity and well being,” Senator Farrell said.
“The National Water Account gives Australia the ability to accurately monitor, assess, and forecast the availability, quality and use of water resources.”
He said separate accounts had been set up for Perth and the Ord region in the East Kimberley.
He said the National Water Account had been designed to be easily accessible and publicly available online and opened up a wealth of opportunities for enhanced interactivity and real-time information.
Acting Director of Meteorology at the Bureau of Meteorology, Rob Vertessy said the Account aimed to build confidence in water management across Australia through transparent, independent and rigorous annual reporting of the amount of water available, traded, accessed and used for various purposes, through scientific data and analysis.
Dr Vertessy said the National Water Account captured a nationally comparable set of water accounting reports for eight key water management regions across the country (Adelaide, Canberra, Melbourne, Murray-Darling Basin, Ord, Perth, South East Queensland, Sydney) and could be accessed at this PS News link.
The Perth account is at this PS News link and the Ord region at this PS News link.
In a related development, the CSIRO has launched a new book designed to inform business, Government and the community about the importance of water.
Water: Science and Solutions for Australia provides the latest information on the status of Australia’s water resources, their future prospects and the potential for using water more effectively to meet the growing demands of cities, agriculture, heavy industries and the environment.
Chief Executive of CSIRO, Megan Clark said the 178-page publication drew upon the scientific literature to provide a broader audience with a clear picture of the water challenges and prospects facing Australia.
8 November, 2011
Art exhibition puts
stock route in frame
An art exhibition from the Canning Stock Route that formed the backdrop for cultural activities during the recent Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) is now open to the public.
Minister for Culture and the Arts, John Day said the Yiwarra Kuju: The Canning Stock Route exhibition was a partnership between Perth-based cultural organisation FORM and 10 remote Aboriginal art and culture centres in the north of the State and would be open until 27 November 2011.
“It set out to explore for the first time the history of the century-old, 2,000km stock route that runs from Wiluna to Halls Creek, crossing three deserts along the way,” Mr Day said.
He said the project was delivered through a collaboration between the State and Federal governments, the Indigenous Land Corporation, cultural groups, corporate supporters and the community.
“The State Government provided more than $1.2 million in grants and funding to the project through Lotterywest, and the Department of Culture and the Arts which included early assistance from the Western Australian Museum,” he said.
“Yiwarra Kuju went on show at the National Museum of Australia for six months and when it closed in January this year, it had been the most successful temporary exhibition in the history of the museum, attracting more than 120,000 visitors.”
Mr Day said the original project involved an intercultural team of emerging Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal curators, photographers and film makers working with the artists to tell the uniquely WA story of the Canning Stock Route through art, oral history, photographs and new media.
“A companion publication, Ngurra Kuju Walyja - One Country, One People - Stories from the Canning Stock Route will also be launched,” he said.
“Yiwarra Kuju: The Canning Stock Route is a free exhibition at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre (PCEC).”
More information is available from this PS News link.
8 November, 2011
Marine protection in
biosecurity mix
A new biosecurity program has been launched to strengthen protections for the State’s aquatic environments.
Minister for Fisheries, Norman Moore said the $9.4 million, two-year program aimed at protecting WA waters, along with a special charter encouraging stakeholder organisations to become involved.
“The State Government recognises the significance of the financial and environmental risks of aquatic pests to our precious waters and its inhabitants,” Mr Moore said.
“Marine pests alone directly cost the global economy more than $1.5 trillion every year.”
He said such pests could cause diseases in humans; quickly disrupt ecosystems and industries; threaten tourism; and damage or even close down fisheries and aquaculture activities.
“We are committed to protecting our waters from alien pests and diseases and the launch of the biosecurity charter today will enable stakeholder organisations and the community to share the responsibility and play their part,” he said.
Mr Moore said the Department of Fisheries was the lead agency for aquatic pest prevention and had developed new initiatives and projects to strengthen frontline defences.
“The Department is already working on world-class strategies to manage the risks of introduction of alien aquatic pests here in WA, boosted by the recruitment and training of dedicated biosecurity researchers, policy staff and Fisheries and Marine Officers, to form part of the frontline response to alien aquatic pests,” he said.
“The team will be equipped with pest detection tools, such as snake-eye cameras, to undertake in-water checks of vessel hulls which may harbour aquatic pests.
“Without these measures, there is a high risk of pests being introduced to the marine environment through fouling on the hulls of visiting vessels, or from the ballast water and ongoing monitoring is a vital task.”
More information on the new program is available from this PS News link.
8 November, 2011
Aboriginal plan to
‘close the gap’
A new national health plan for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders is to be established as another step on the way to closing the gap between health outcomes in the ATSI community and the broader population.
The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan will give effect to the Council Of Australian Government’s undertaking to close the gap in life expectancy and infant mortality. All States and Territories will be invited to take part.
Federal Minister for Health, Nicola Roxon said the plan was an important step in providing a road map for action across Australia.
The plan would map the way forward for health care and service providers, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, in ensuring positive health outcomes.
“By working together, we can further reduce barriers, waste and duplication, and further enhance the services provided by Commonwealth and State and Territory health services,” Ms Roxon said.
She said the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Equality Council, chaired by Ian Anderson, would provide strategic policy advice on the plan.
An advisory group co-chaired by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing and the National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples would inform the plan’s development and content.
Federal Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon said the cooperative approach to the plan would help ensure its objectives were clear and address the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“It is important this plan is thorough and inclusive, covering not only health but also factors which impact on health, such as education, housing, employment and early childhood development,” Mr Snowdon said.
8 November, 2011
Multicultural awards
for world of honour
Nominations for the 2012 Western Australian Multicultural Community Service Awards are now open.
Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Interests, John Castrilli said the awards recognised individuals and organisations dedicated to improving service delivery, removing cultural barriers and promoting the ideals of a multicultural society.
“There are so many people in Western Australia worthy of this recognition,” Mr Castrilli said.
“The Western Australian Multicultural Community Service Awards allow us to acknowledge and celebrate those who have accomplished outstanding work in advancing multicultural inclusiveness and participation.”
He said through the inspiring work of those nominated, all West Australians were empowered to take part fully in society regardless of their linguistic, religious, racial or ethnic background.
He said the awards would be presented in five categories: Multicultural Community Service Individual Excellence Awards; Engaging the Community Innovation Award; Community Service Excellence Award; Implementing Multiculturalism Locally Award; and Business Migrant of the Year Award.
Mr Castrilli said the awards emphasised the shared values of all West Australians and encouraged an inclusive and vibrant multicultural society.
“I encourage people to nominate a remarkable individual, organisation or business whose achievements have promoted our multicultural State,” he said.
“Nominations close 5pm Friday 6 January 2012.”
The Minister said nomination guidelines and forms were available from this PS News link.
8 November, 2011
Skilled workforce is
learning new tricks
A progress report on the Skilling WA workforce development plan has found positive results after six months according to the Minister for Training and Workforce Development, Peter Collier.
Mr Collier said the report revealed good progress was being made on meeting Western Australia’s current and future skilled workforce needs.
“The report shows Skilling WA is achieving exceptional results in the key areas of growth in the State’s workforce, and developing the skills of West Australians,” he said.
“Record numbers of West Australians are now undertaking training, with an additional $33.4 million allocated in this year’s Budget to fund more than 12,000 extra training places.”
He said of the extra places, 7,500 were for training in critical occupations; 3,415 for people from culturally and linguistically different backgrounds, or wanting to return to the workforce; and 1,131 places were for Aboriginal people.
Mr Collier said the State Government had also opened Aboriginal Workforce Development Centres in Broome, Bunbury, Geraldton and Kalgoorlie-Boulder to help Aboriginal people enter the workforce.
“The Aboriginal Workforce Development Centres that have opened in regional WA complement the great results achieved by the Perth Aboriginal Workforce Centre, which opened in March 2010,” he said.
“The review period also coincided with the launch of the Western Australian Skilled Migration Strategy.”
He said WA industry needed to be able to recruit skilled migrants when skills shortages could not be met from WA or other parts of Australia.
Mr Collier said the progress report showed the strong workforce focus of the Government, industry, regions and other stakeholders.
“Industry, including the State’s Industry Training Councils, is contributing significantly to Skilling WA’s priorities through the promotion of job opportunities in specific sectors; identification of new apprenticeships and traineeships; and researching critical success factors in vocational training in schools,” he said.
The progress report can be accessed at this PS News link.
8 November, 2011
Fishers catch
new licences
The Department of Fisheries has eased Regulations that prevented commercial fishers from holding recreational rock lobster, abalone or netting licences in Western Australia.
Previously, commercial fishers were only permitted to hold recreational fishing licences for marron fishing and South West freshwater angling.
Manager of Strategic Fisheries Policy at the Department of Fisheries, Nathan Harrison said the restrictions were reviewed following the implementation of new management arrangements for the commercial rock lobster fishery and commercial line fishing on the West Coast.
“The Minister for Fisheries authorised the amendments which will allow Commercial Fishing Licence (CFL) holders to enjoy a range of recreational fishing experiences which they had been prohibited from holding in the past,” Mr Harrison said.
“Under the new approach, a CFL holder will be able to apply for and hold a Recreational Fishing Licence (RFL), in any licensed recreational fishery in the State.”
He said CFL holders would however, not be allowed to undertake recreational fishing activities from a commercially licensed fishing boat.
“When fishing from a recreational boat, CFL holders will also be required to hold a Recreational Fishing from Boat Licence,” he said.
“When granted an RFL, they will only be allowed to fish from a recreational vessel or from the shore and they would be subject to the normal bag, boat and possession limits as well as other fishing rules that apply to all recreational fishers.”
Mr Harrison said all recreational licence fees were placed in a dedicated recreational fishing account and went back directly into the management of recreational fishing.
He said more information was available from this PS News link.
8 November, 2011
Storm water project
flows into Geraldton
A new stormwater harvesting project has been unveiled for Geraldton by the Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and Urban Water, Senator Don Farrell.
Funded with $3 million from the Commonwealth Government on a dollar-for-dollar basis with the City Council, the project is expected to save more than 745 million litres of drinking water each year by 2014.
Senator Farrell said drinking water supplies would be saved by redirecting stormwater from urban catchments to shallow aquifers thus providing a new source of water to benefit wetlands and natural systems and for use irrigating local parks, sporting fields and school grounds.
“The project will also implement water efficiency measures such as installing more efficient irrigation systems and developing a water conservation plan,” Senator Farrell said.
He said securing safe and reliable water supplies for communities was a key priority for the Australian Government.
“The City of Greater Geraldton is leading the way in becoming a climate resistant, water sensitive city,” he said.
“Australian Government funding will be provided under the National Water Security Plan for Cities and Towns, an element of the Water for the Future initiative.”
8 November, 2011
DAFWA chimes in
for dung beetles
The Department of Agriculture and Food (DAFWA) is to link up with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) to launch a project examining the impact of dung beetles on bush fly populations.
Minister for Agriculture and Food, Terry Redman said the two-year study would investigate interaction between existing species and help identify the best sites to establish new dung beetle species.
“The DAFWA survey will link into research currently under way by the CSIRO, which will import two new species of dung beetle into Australia,” Mr Redman said.
“CSIRO has agreed to make the beetles available to the Department on the basis that suitable release sites be identified and the beetles are carefully managed.”
He said dung beetles were already active in Western Australia as a result of a program which ran for 28 years from 1968.
“Bush flies are native insects that have affected the lives of West Australians since the first settlement,” he said.
“Seven introduced dung beetle species remain abundant in rural regions of WA. “Research has shown that the beetles provide many benefits, including improved nutrient recycling, a reduction in worms in livestock and a reduction in fly populations.”
Mr Redman said although proposals to import new species could take many years due to strict quarantine requirements, the CSIRO project was well advanced.
“The State Government, through DAFWA, has supported this work and has reached a funding arrangement with CSIRO to fast-track access to these beetles,” he said.
8 November, 2011
Remembrance Day
remembered
Australia Post has announced the release of its 2011 Remembrance Day commemorative stamps.
Managing Director and Chief Executive of Australia Post, Ahmed Fahour said this year’s issue had a very significant time and date sequence.
“One minute’s silence will be observed at 11am on 11.11.11 – a sequence which only occurs every 100 years,” Mr Fahour said.
“It is fitting for Australia Post to commemorate Remembrance Day in Australia given the observance of silence was originally proposed by Melbourne journalist and World War I veteran, Edward George Honey in 1919.”
He said the two stamps in the Remembrance Day 11.11.11 issue captured the essence and origins of Remembrance Day.
He said a silhouetted shadow of two soldiers featured on one design and a bugler on the other, each in combination with a Flanders poppy and the first stanza of John McCrae’s famous poem In Flanders Fields, written in 1915.
Mr Fahour said Melbourne-based designer, Tim Hancock was commissioned to illustrate the stamp issue which draws attention to the shadow cast by history of those who were affected, injured or lost during their wartime service.
“As part of the issue, Australia Post will also release a limited edition stamp and coin cover (11,111 units in total), with a $5 pad printed coin specially made by the Royal Australian Mint.”
Mr Fahour said the stamp was available at participating Australia Post retail outlets, via mail order on 1800 331 794 or online at this PS News link.
8 November, 2011
Time off taken to open
good Behaviour Centre
The State’s sixth Behaviour Centre has been officially opened in Geraldton for Mid-West students struggling with behavioural problems.
Minister for Education, Liz Constable said staff at the facility had already helped more than 50 students who had benefitted from a positive learning environment and focus on improving behaviour.
“The Centre’s many successes include changing the outlook of a once difficult student who has now entered Training WA and is on a productive life path; and another who regularly attends class after previously attending school only 20 per cent of the time,” Dr Constable said.
“These achievements are a result of the principal, senior school psychologist, staff and the students working together to properly address the needs of those who, for many reasons, have found attending school previously challenging.”
She said the Geraldton Endeavour Centre was one of a number State-wide that included others in Port Hedland, Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Bunbury.
She said the Centre’s opening followed a 2009 State Government commitment of $46 million to improve student behaviour, which also included funding for pastoral care, more school psychologists and additional psychologist training on mental health issues.
“The centre’s staff work with parents and other agencies such as the Department for Child Protection, Youth and Family Services, WA Police, Disability Services Commission and Parenting WA to help those children who need it the most,” Dr Constable said.
“This is a great example of the State Government and the community working together to get children back to school and learning.
“I’m confident there will be many more positive stories to come out of this Centre as its important work continues,” she said.
8 November, 2011
Strata managers
to be licensed
The Department of Commerce has issued a discussion paper on a proposal to licence strata managers in Western Australia.
Minister for Commerce, Simon O’Brien said the release of the discussion paper began a four-month consultation period, ending on 29 February, 2012, aimed at collating a range of views on the issue.
“Currently only New South Wales and the Northern Territory require strata managers to be licensed,” Mr O’Brien said.
“In WA, two previous Parliamentary inquiries and an independent review on the subject recommended greater regulation in this area.”
He said the options put forward in the discussion paper included licensing strata managers; regulation without licensing; and maintaining the status quo.
“If a licensing regime is to be introduced, there needs to be consideration of whether all strata managers will require a licence or whether there’s a threshold where smaller, low-risk strata complexes can be managed without a licence,” he said.
“Strata title has become an increasingly popular form of ownership in the WA property market and strata owners have a reasonable expectation that their property will be managed properly and in a transparent manner.”
Mr O’Brien said the Government would consider the views of respondents when deciding their policy on the issue.
He said strata titles made up about one-third of all forms of titles registered in WA.
The discussion paper is available at this PS News link.
8 November, 2011
And in Other News...
PS Books online
A new book-buying service has been launched by PS News this week.
Faced with growing numbers of enquiries for orders of books appearing in its Book Review pages, PS News has introduced the new scheme as a convenient online service for readers.
Almost every book subject to review will be available for purchase under a cooperative arrangement with the Australian Institute of Management’s Management Books service.
The PS News book reviews can be accessed at this PS News link.
Mosquito warning for SW
The Department of Health has warned people living or holidaying in the south-west to take care to avoid mosquito bites following detection of Ross River virus (RRV) in the region.
The virus was detected in mosquito populations at sites in the Geographe and Leschenault regions, including Busselton, Capel and surrounds.
There are no cures or vaccines for RRV and Barmah Forest virus (BFV) and symptoms include painful or swollen joints, sore muscles, skin rashes, fever, fatigue and headaches.
The Department said people should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Test probe charges 10th suspect
A tenth person has been charged as a result of the Corruption and Crime Commission’s investigation into an English language testing scam at Curtin University.
A man was charged with four counts of bribery as part of the Commission’s investigation into allegations that a former employee of the University accepted bribes to alter International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores over a 12-month period to June 2010.
So far nine people have been convicted of 59 charges and received penalties ranging from a $20,000 fine to two years jail.
New format for abalone
A revised format for abalone fishing has been introduced for the 2011 recreational abalone fishing season.
The new format allows fishing for an hour once a month over a five-month period instead of an hour each Sunday for five consecutive Sundays.
The arrangements began on Sunday 6 November 6 between 7am and 8am and there will now be a month’s break before the next fishing opportunity.
Partner sought for seniors centre
Consumer Protection is searching for a non-Government organisation to collaborate with the Department to expand services at the newly opened Seniors’ Housing Centre.
The Centre is located on the ground floor of 219 St Georges Terrace Perth as an independent resource offering free information about the full range of housing options for Seniors.
Tender documents can be obtained online at this PS News link or by calling Consumer Protection on 1300 30 40 54 and close on 23 November 2011.
Cottage on heritage list
Bussell cottage has been chosen for State heritage listing.
The listing recognises the achievements of Western Australia’s colonial pioneering family, the Bussells.
The cottage at Cattle Chosen in Busselton, has been continuously owned and operated as a farm by John Bussell and his descendants since 1834.
Advisors for Port Hedland
An advisory group has been appointed to lead consultations and discussion on noise and air quality in Port Hedland.
Announced by the Minister for the Environment, Bill Marmion, the group will collaborate with the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) and share information with the broader community of Port Hedland.
The group will be chaired by local resident Roger Richardson and include representatives from DEC; the Port Hedland Industries Council; Care for Hedland Environmental Association; the Department of Health; Town of Port Hedland; Pilbara Development Commission and local businesses.
1 November, 2011
Accommodation savings
are rental as anything
The State Government is on track to save up to $25million a year on the costs of office accommodation.
Minister for Finance, Simon O’Brien said the consolidation of office rentals and usage was just one element of the Accommodation Master Plan.
“The Government has been able to use its buying power and negotiate significantly lower rent costs, consolidating into fewer offices in the CBD and decentralising to metropolitan offices,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The incentivised net rent for replacement of Governor Stirling Tower (GST) is about $450 a square metre.”
He said other elements of the Masterplan which saved taxpayer dollars included standardising of fit outs; shared meeting, training, telephone and computing facilities; and a reduction in average work areas from 19 square metres to 15.
“Currently, some 5,000 Public Servants from 17 locations and 22 agencies are being relocated under the Master Plan into Gordon Stephenson House (GSH); the refurbished Government-owned Albert Facey House; Dumas House; several smaller heritage buildings; and the Optima Centre in Osborne Park,” he said.
“The total vacant space across the portfolio managed by the Department of Finance’s Building Management and Works is about 3,500sqm, which represents only 0.6 per cent of the portfolio.”
Mr O’Brien said that percentage compared well against other Governments and industry although it did not include unused office space which was being refurbished.
“Vacancy rates in October 2004 were 13.4 per cent but by October 2007 had fallen sharply (one per cent) with average rents doubling in the process,” he said.
“Our Government continues to build infrastructure on time and on budget and, in this case, not waste taxpayers’ money when careful planning can save millions of dollars.”
He said more information on the Accommodation Master Plan was available from this PS News link.
1 November, 2011
PS call to spearhead
Indigenous jobs
Senior Public Service managers across Australia have been called on to copy their private sector counterparts and go into bat for Indigenous employment.
Writing in the new-look magazine of the Institute of Public Administration Australia, Public Administration Today, the National President of the IPAA, Percy Allan called on the senior echelons of the PS to pledge more jobs for Indigenous Australians.
“Indigenous success stories tell us those who find work have far fewer problems than those who don’t,” Mr Allan said.
“To find work, Indigenous Australians need skills and opportunities to escape the downward spiral of hopelessness and despair that many regrettably view as the natural fate for Australia’s original peoples.”
His plea echoes a similar call by Commonwealth’s Special Minister of State, Gary Gray for Federal Public Service Chiefs to lead by example in hiring more Indigenous employees.
Mr Gray said he expected the Australian Public Service to be doing more towards achieving the 2018 target of a further 100,000 private and public sector jobs for Indigenous Australians.
The IPAA magazine looks at other aspects of Indigenous affairs, including The
Strategic Review of Indigenous Expenditure Report to the Australian Government, which recommended 25 existing Indigenous-specific programs across the Commonwealth be closed immediately, and 51 others be consolidated into 18.
The report said Commonwealth Government expenditure on its Indigenous-specific programs amounted to some $3.5 billion annually and that it had yielded dismally poor returns to date.
Public Administration Today also features articles supporting its Indigenous employment theme by Public Service Chiefs including Federal Auditor General, Ian McPhee, former Commonwealth and ACT Ombudsman, Allan Asher and the Australian Public Service Commission.
It is distributed nationally and read by public sector employees in all three tiers of Government, Statutory Authorities and not-for-profit organisations.
Mr Allan’s comments were also featured in PS News and can be accessed at this PS News link.
1 November, 2011
Shark patrols
get more bite
Western Australian beaches are to receive better protection as seven day a week aerial shark patrols have begun.
Premier Colin Barnett said three fatal shark attacks in the past two months and an increase in the number of sharks spotted had highlighted the need for extra patrols to increase public safety.
Mr Barnett said an additional $1million funding would allow the patrols to operate for an average of four hours per day, every day until the end of April, delivering an additional 77 flying days.
He said weekend and public holiday patrols were due to start from 1 November.
“There will be helicopter patrols along the coastline between Mandurah and Yanchep from 6.30am,” Mr Barnett said.
“For the first time patrols will also sweep Rottnest Island at weekends and during school holidays.”
He said weekend and school holidays helicopter patrols would also be introduced along parts of the South-West coastline from Bunbury to beaches in Margaret River.
“It’s important the Western Australian public feel safe when enjoying WA’s beautiful beaches,” he said.
“But the State Government can only do so much and that’s why we are urging individuals to do their bit to minimise the risk.”
He said people should not dive or swim alone a long way from shore, particularly on overcast days.
He said the best way to stay safe was to swim between the flags.
“Surf Life Saving WA will have surf life savers patrolling waters from Fremantle to Mullaloo on jet skis,” Mr Barnett said.
“The Government will also provide additional funding to SLSWA to ensure extra surf life savers are patrolling major metropolitan beaches.”
He said there would also be lifeguard services in parts of the South-West and at Rottnest Island starting from Saturday 26 November, to coincide with the end of year 12 exams.
“I’d like to thank SLSWA and the volunteers who already work hard to provide this service and will now be putting in additional effort to ensure there’s increased public safety at our beaches,” the Premier said.
1 November, 2011
Campaign jacked up
for jacks awareness
A national safety campaign warning home handymen to take care working under car jacks has been announced by the Commissioner for Consumer Protection, Anne Driscoll.
Ms Driscoll said the campaign would target men aged 18 to 40 because too many died or were seriously injured each year while working under their cars using vehicle jacks, stands, and ramps.
“Research undertaken by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) found that, in less than 10 years, 46 fatalities involving car jacks, vehicle ramps or blocks were reported,” Ms Driscoll said.
“Because practitioners of DIY vehicle maintenance tend to ignore product warning labels and disregard the risk of death and serious injury from lifting and suspending vehicles, various Australian Government Agencies got together and found innovative ways to get the message to the target audience.”
She said 40,000 free postcards would hit stands in cinemas, pubs and cafés around the country encouraging car jack users to enter an online competition to win prizes like six laps in a V8 supercar.
Ms Driscoll said one West Australian was guaranteed to win.
“Entrants just have to watch a short video clip made especially for the campaign and answer a simple question about it,” she said.
“The dedicated website with all you need to know about working under a vehicle is easily viewed on a mobile phone, and the competition runs until the end of January.”
She said the competition closed at 2pm on Tuesday, 31 January 2012 and more information was available from this PS News link.
1 November, 2011
Bureau storms in for
cyclone season
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued its annual outlook for the tropical cyclone season and it’s all bad news for Australia’s four cyclone-prone regions.
The Bureau is expecting an above average number of cyclones right across northern Australia.
Climate Prediction Manager at the Bureau, Andrew Watkins, said climate models were trending toward another La Niña event, which led them to expect a slightly higher than average number of tropical cyclones.
Dr Watkins said however, no two La Niña events were the same.
“The Southern Oscillation Index, a key climate driver, was (positive) 11.7 in September this year, compared with (positive) 25 at the same time last year,” Dr Watkins said.
“While this La Niña may be weaker than the last, this doesn’t mean we can expect fewer tropical cyclones than the previous season.
“In other words, we can’t afford to be complacent.”
Climatologist with the Bureau, Joel Lisonbee said before a tropical cyclone formed it was difficult to predict its exact strength and path and whether it would make landfall.
Mr Lisonbee said however that the Bureau had a solid body of historical data which gave forecasters a likely range in which to work.
“Along the east and west coasts, less than half of all cyclones affect the coast, with most staying out to sea,” he said.
“However, along the north coast more than half of all cyclones will impact coastal regions.”
He said during a La Niña, warmer waters in the western Pacific and regions to the north of Australia, and associated changes in circulation helped focus tropical cyclone activity in the Coral and Timor seas.
“Generally we divide Australia into four regions,” Mr Lisonbee said, “with the average number of tropical cyclones in the eastern region (Queensland) being four, northern region (Northern Territory) being three, and western region (Western Australia) being seven. “The north western sub-region, which includes Western Australia and the Northern Territory, is highly active and with an average of five tropical cyclones,” he said.
More information about the Bureau’s tropical cyclone outlook can be obtained from this PS News link.
1 November, 2011
New plates get
the numbers
The Department of Transport (DoT) has launched a new series of graphic car number plates.
The new series would initially be limited to zodiac and frangipani designs and were now available to purchase from the DoT website.
General Manager of Driver and Vehicle Services with DoT, Michael D’souza said with 1.4 million cars on Western Australian roads optional plates gave drivers an opportunity to stand out from the crowd.
“Customers can choose from a great range of optional plates and the release of the zodiac and frangipani designs will allow more drivers an opportunity to express their individuality,” Mr D’souza said.
He said the zodiac series was available on a black or purple background and motorists could choose their star sign and a combination of three letters and three numbers or two letters and four numbers.
He said the frangipani series was available on a black or pink background with a combination of three letters and three numbers.
“To see if a particular plate combination is available, customers can use the ‘check now’ tool online,” Mr D’souza said.
“When a plate is known to be available the customer completes the online application form and then proceeds to the payment section online.”
He said the plates were subject to approval and cost $395.
He said it could take between three to four weeks before the plates were ready for collection and more information was available from this PS News link.
1 November, 2011
Health excels in
anti-crime award
A Department of Health program that targets young people with anti-social behavioural problems has been recognised in the 2011 Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards.
Presented in Canberra, the awards honour outstanding community-based projects that prevent or reduce crime.
The WA Department of Health’s Multi-systemic Therapy Program was awarded for its work with families who had a young person with a history of severe anti-social behavioural problems.
The program provides parent/caregivers with the skills to manage the young person’s behaviour and to assist him or her improve their behaviour.
Federal Minister for Home Affairs, Brendon O’Connor congratulated all five winners of the awards saying they were all outstanding community-based projects that prevented or reduced crime.
Mr O’Connor said two other awards also recognised police crime prevention programs.
“There was tough competition from a field of 52 contenders, but the winning projects stood out for their outstanding results in reducing local crime and offending,” Mr O’Connor said.
“The projects involved Indigenous and rural communities, drug and alcohol-related crime prevention, offenders and victims of domestic and family violence, vulnerable youth and the prevention of ATM robberies.”
Presenting the awards on behalf of Mr O’Connor, Senator Kate Lundy said this year’s winning projects particularly highlighted the importance of breaking the cycle of domestic and family violence, the effectiveness of working with vulnerable young people and early intervention.
“The awards showcase the importance of partnerships and practical solutions to prevent crime and make our communities safer,” Senator Lundy said.
1 November, 2011
City’s future is up
for comment
The community is being invited to have their say on the future of Perth.
The Metropolitan Local Government Review Panel is seeking public comment as part of its examination of the most effective Local Government structures and governance models to take the city into the future.
The panel has launched a new website to provide access to background and research papers as well as submissions received and links to other relevant sites.
Minister for Local Government, John Castrilli said the panel’s issues paper would be published on the website, which would give the community an opportunity to provide input to the review.
“The panel is examining the social, economic and environmental challenges facing Perth over the next 50 years,” Mr Castrilli said.
He said the panel was set up in June this year and was chaired by Professor Alan Robson, vice chancellor of the University of Western Australia.
He said other members were the former vice chancellor of The University of Notre Dame Australia Dr Peter Tannock; and the Chief Executive of Leadership WA, Dr Sue van Leeuwen.
Mr Castrilli said the issues paper would include questions to make the submission process easier, but respondents should feel free to provide comment on any relevant issue.
“It is expected that the panel will submit recommendations to me by June 2012 which will result in the drawing of new Local Government boundaries,” he said.
“This is an exciting time as the structure of Local Government has not significantly changed in more than 100 years.”
More information is available from this PS News link.
1 November, 2011
Tough new laws come
clean on littering
Tough new fines for littering have been announced by the Minister for the Environment, Bill Marmion.
Mr Marmion said that under a new zero tolerance policy on potentially dangerous littering behaviour, people who littered cigarette butts would face on-the-spot fines of $200, up from $75, while anyone successfully prosecuted for general littering could suffer a maximum penalty of $5,000, up from $1,000.
Mr Marmion said a Bill to amend the Litter Act 1979 would be introduced into State Parliament that would substantially increase the penalties for littering.
He said the changes would enable regulations to be introduced detailing a new offence of ‘littering that creates a public risk’.
“This new offence will target people engaged in serious littering offences that pose a safety risk to people, property or animals,” Mr Marmion said.
“This could include the littering of lit cigarettes, syringes or other dangerous materials.”
He said with summer around the corner, anyone irresponsible enough to throw a lit cigarette on a hot, dry day would face serious consequences under the zero tolerance policy for potentially dangerous littering behaviour.
“According to the Fire and Emergency Services Authority, between eight and 12 per cent of fires are started by cigarette butts, so it is important that we each do our bit to keep WA safe and litter free, whether through the enforcement process or community education,” Mr Marmion said.
He said the Bill to amend the Litter Act 1979 complemented the passage of amendments to the Environmental Protection Act 1986 in November last year which created the offence of unlawful dumping of waste, with a fine of up to $125,000.
He said annual clean-up costs of litter were estimated at more than $20million and more than 5,000 people in WA were now registered litter reporters.
1 November, 2011
Healthy report for
patient safety
A new report has found that patient safety continues to improve throughout Western Australia’s public hospitals.
Director General of the Department of Health, Kim Snowball said the Learning from Clinical Incidents: A Snapshot of Patient Safety in Western Australia report for 2008-2010 showed WA Health was committed to ensuring that clinical excellence in patient care was delivered.
“WA Health continues to make substantial improvements to prevent and reduce clinical incidents across the State,” Mr Snowball said.
He said the report documented the key features and trends of the five most common clinical incident types notified to the Advanced Incident Management System from 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2010.
He said incident types included medication errors; patient falls; behaviour incidents; injury; and others.
“It is vital that when things do go wrong within our health system we can reflect on what has happened and implement strategies to help prevent issues reoccurring,” Mr Snowball said.
“Results indicate that patient safety within WA Health continues to improve, with decreases in clinical incidents between 2008/2009 and 2009/2010.”
He said it was important to note that the majority of incidents notified for both years resulted in no harm or only minor harm to the patient.
“The report shows there were 31,054 clinical incidents notified in 2008/2009 and 28,067 in 2009/2010, a decrease of 9 per cent,” he said.
“We would like to acknowledge the patients and their families who have experienced unintended harm while receiving care in our health system.”
Mr Snowball said the frequency of clinical incidents resulting in permanent disability or death decreased during the two-year period, with 91 incidents in 2008/2009 and 44 in 2009/2010.
“Clinical incidents continue to be associated with a very small percentage of total hospital admissions,” he said.
“In 2008/2009 clinical incidents were associated with 6.8 per cent of admissions and in 2009/2010 this dropped to 5.9 per cent.”
The report is available at this PS News link.
1 November, 2011
Seeds of success in
weed partnership
A partnership between the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) and the Wunggurr Aboriginal ranger group has been announced to combat Kimberley weeds.
The partnership is part of the $63million Kimberley Science and Conservation Strategy and would target a weed infestation in the King Leopold Ranges Conservation Park.
Minister for the Environment, Bill Marmion said a population of taro (Colocasia esculenta var. aquatilis), introduced in the 1980s, had been spreading along a tributary of the Barker River at Mt Hart homestead.
“This species is native to the east Kimberley but is considered an invasive weed in the west Kimberley as it has the potential to spread rapidly and choke river systems,” Mr Marmion said.
“The taro population at the homestead has spread during the last three decades.”
He said an expedition in August involved a trial program to survey the extent of the infestation and test different weed control methods.
He said spraying foliage with herbicide was found to be the most effective, and almost two hectares of taro were sprayed twice in a follow-up expedition in September.
“DEC and Wunggurr rangers will continue to re-treat the affected area in the coming months and further survey work will be undertaken downstream to check for potential infested pockets,” Mr Marmion said.
He said collaborative weed control work was an important component of the Kimberley Science and Conservation Strategy.
“Part of the strategy is to facilitate the training and employment of Aboriginal rangers to undertake collaborative activities targeting weed invasion and biodiversity conservation work in the King Leopold Ranges Conservation Park,” he said.
“DEC’s West Kimberley district is continuing its partnership with the Wunggurr rangers to work together; share knowledge, skills and training; and facilitate on-country land management activities.”
1 November, 2011
Cockburn Coast laps
up redevelopment
Plans have been released that show how the redevelopment of Cockburn Coast will leave the area’s industrial past behind.
Minister for Lands, Brendon Grylls said the formerly industrial-zoned land would be transformed into a thriving residential and commercial community.
“The regeneration of the area will create a new community of up to 10,000 people with an exciting mix of commercial, residential and recreational activities,” Mr Grylls said.
“This project is moving forward with the masterplan and Town Planning Scheme Amendment now released for public comment by the City of Cockburn.”
He said the 140-hectare urban renewal project was five kilometres south of Fremantle and would link South Beach to the Port Coogee estate.
He said the project involved the renewal of the derelict South Fremantle Power Station and the former Robb Jetty industrial areas.
Minister for Planning, John Day said the Metropolitan Region Scheme Amendment to rezone the project area from industrial to urban had recently been approved following an extended period of consultation and stakeholder engagement.
“The release of the masterplan for public comment and the approval of the Metropolitan Region Scheme Amendment is a significant step forward,” Mr Day said.
“Cockburn Coast has been developed in line with the State Government’s Directions 2031 which addresses Perth’s population growth through lively and well connected neighbourhoods.”
He said the redevelopment would create new residential, commercial, recreation, entertainment and tourism opportunities for the region; a comprehensive network of cycle and pedestrian paths to connect the development to the coast; as well as parks and recreational areas.
More information is available from this PS News link.
1 November, 2011
Paper is first course
in national food plan
A White Paper is to be prepared as part of the process of developing Australia’s first National Food Plan.
The plan will ensure that the national policy settings are right for Australia over the short, medium and long-term.
Announcing the paper, the Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig said it would help achieve the vision of a sustainable, globally competitive, resilient food supply that supported access to nutritious and affordable food.
Senator Ludwig said consultation would be a key to that process.
He said an issues paper released in June was followed by 10 weeks of public consultation and the next step, a Green Paper, would provide stakeholders with a chance to contribute before a White Paper was prepared.
“The Government is analysing and considering the full extent of issues raised in response to the issues paper, and has already begun work developing the Green Paper,” Senator Ludwig said.
“The Green Paper will outline the Government’s vision and approach to food policy and canvas potential changes to policy, programs and governance arrangements.”
He said feedback on the Green Paper would inform the National Food Plan, to be released as a White Paper.
He said the Food Plan would be a significant policy statement that served as a platform for better informed and more strategic policy directions for the food sector.
Senator Ludwig said the objectives of the National Food Plan would include identifying and mitigating potential risks to Australia’s food security; reducing barriers to a safe and nutritious food supply; supporting long-term economic, environmental and social sustainability of the food supply chain; supporting global competitiveness and productivity growth; and reducing barriers to food businesses accessing international and domestic markets.
“We need to be ready to meet emerging risks and opportunities such as a changing global food market, population growth and climate change,” Senator Ludwig said.
“The development of Australia’s first ever National Food Plan will ensure we are ready to meet these challenges and maximise our opportunities over the decades to come.”
1 November, 2011
Incentive scheme for
hotel developers
Incentives are to be introduced to encourage hotel investment and development across Western Australia, and in particular the Perth CBD.
Minister for Tourism, Kim Hames said hotels were critical tourism and economic infrastructure for the State’s economy but needed a lift.
“Despite a significant and sustained increase in occupancy and room rates, there has been minimal hotel investment in Perth and parts of regional WA since 2006,” Dr Hames said.
“The severe shortage of hotel rooms in Perth, in particular, negatively impacts WA’s ability to successfully attract corporate and leisure visitors, major conferences and events, increase aviation capacity, and disperse travellers throughout the State.”
He said after careful consideration the Government had recognised its support was needed to encourage an increase in the supply of short stay accommodation.
He said such support was urgently required for the State’s growing economy.
Dr Hames said a number of incentives had been endorsed by the Government for application to specific development opportunities on a project by project basis.
He said these included the release of Crown land for hotel development through expressions of interests; granting longer term Crown leases for short stay accommodation developments where appropriate; and determining concessional lease payments for Crown land on the Valuer General’s advice that specifically promoted hotel accommodation developments.
He said the discount of Crown land values for hotel developments in consultation with the Department of Regional Development and Lands and other relevant agencies would also be part of the incentives, as would the consideration of leasing Crown land for hotel use at a peppercorn rent.
Dr Hames said the Government had also agreed to designate the use of land under Government control, Crown land, properties and/or buildings for future hotel use or conversion; allocate funds for the provision of infrastructure upgrades to facilitate hotel accommodation development; and allow flexible plot ratio bonuses for hotel developments.
1 November, 2011
New land ID rules to
block property fraud
Tougher new rules to combat property fraud have been announced by the Minister for Commerce, Simon O’Brien.
Mr O’Brien said the rules would require stronger identification tests for sellers following the incident at Ballajura in which the victims of identity theft had their home sold without their knowledge or permission while they were living overseas.
The Minister said it was the second successful fraudulent sale of a Western Australian property after a home in Karrinyup was sold under similar circumstances last year.
Mr O’Brien said the codes of conduct to both real estate and settlement agents had been strengthened.
“Agents will be required to undertake thorough identity verification checks to ensure they are dealing with the real owner of the property,” he said.
“Guidelines issued by the Commissioner for Consumer Protection advise agents to carry out a 100-point client identification verification to certify that they are dealing with the true owner(s) or their authorised representative.”
He said officers from the Property Industries Branch of Consumer Protection would conduct regular visits to agents to ensure they had the necessary processes in place to conform to the new requirements.
“Complying with the code of conduct is a strict requirement of their licence, so it’s essential for all real estate and settlement agents to take immediate steps to establish strong identity verification procedures in their office to avoid future fraud,” Mr O’Brien said.
“These checks are designed to detect scams at the earliest stage and are complementary to measures put in place by Landgate for transactions involving owners living overseas.”
He said details of the new arrangements could be accessed at this PS News link or this PS News link.
1 November, 2011
Disability talks make
steady progress
More than 100 Western Australians with disability, their carers and disability service providers have attended a public forum in Perth in support of a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and National Injury Insurance Scheme (NIIS) for WA.
At the forum, the Australian Government reaffirmed its agreement with the States and Territories to lay the foundations for an NDIS by mid-2013, a year ahead of the timeline set out by the Productivity Commission.
Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, Senator Jan McLucas said the recent inaugural meeting of the Select Council on Disability Reform had agreed to the accelerated work plans.
“The Australian Government wants to see improvements to disability care and support as quickly as possible,” Senator McLucas said.
She said the Government wanted to get such a major reform right.
“There is a significant amount of work to be undertaken in order to achieve this, and we have already started work,” she said.
Assistant Federal Treasurer, Bill Shorten said the Commonwealth had already made clear its support for the Productivity Commission’s vision for a system to provide individuals with the support they neede over the course of their lifetime.
“Australia must end the midnight anxiety of thousands of elderly parents caring for children with a disability,” Mr Shorten said.
“It is critical that all Governments maintain momentum to progress this important reform and to work together to lay the foundations for a National Disability Insurance Scheme.”
Special Minister of State and MP for Brand, Gary Gray said the Australian Government was working with communities across the country to understand what was needed to improve and boost the skills of the disability services sector.
“The disability sector here in Western Australia is working tirelessly to support people with disability through their many services and care programs,” Mr Gray said.
“Our Government recognises their contribution and I would like to thank the community for their support for a NDIS, which would improve the quality of life of thousands of West Australians, providing more options and support for people with disability,” he said.
1 November, 2011
And in Other News...
Northbridge goes online
The City of Perth has launched a new website.
The website aims to showcase the growing program of activities taking place at the Northbridge Piazza and will feature details of upcoming movie seasons and events as well as an easy to use Piazza TV guide.
For information go to this PS News link.
Consumer awards open
Nominations for the Consumer Protection Awards 2012 are now open.
The Awards have been running since 2004 and mark outstanding achievements in the fields of consumer protection and injury prevention for children.
Winners receive a cash prize of $2,500.
All nominations must be received by Friday, 2 December 2011 and details of award categories and how to nominate are available at this PS News link.
Fremantle safer
Funding to improve safety and security in Fremantle has been announced.
The Safer Streets in Fremantle project run by the City of Fremantle is to benefit from $149,000 in Federal money to extend the current CCTV system to cover identified crime hot spots.
The funding comes from criminal assets confiscated under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
New patrol vessel
Marine safety patrols off the Mid West coast have been boosted by the arrival of a new purpose built vessel to increase boating safety.
The new vessel is named PV14 and will be used for coastal patrols between Kalbarri and Cervantes, focussing on hot spots including the Geraldton foreshore.
PV14 will provide Regional Transport Officers with a powerful purpose built patrol vessel allowing them to respond to emergencies faster and conduct compliance checks with greater efficiency.
Bijou to be protected
Bijou Theatre in Esperance, the oldest purpose-built theatre still operating in Western Australia, has been entered on the State Register of Heritage Places.
The theatre was built in six weeks in 1896 and is a centrepiece of the town’s history.
The Esperance Theatre Guild took over the building in 1971, undertaking extensive renovation work and reinstating regular performances.
More beds at Joondalup
52 beds for patients at Joondalup Health Campus are part of reforms to boost health services in the northern suburbs of Perth.
A Federal Government funding boost of $26.75 million will provide better sub acute, emergency department and elective surgery care at Joondalup.
The funding is part of the $351 million delivered to WA from the national health reform agreement.
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