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SearchArchives for September 2011
27 September, 2011
Budget figures
all add up
The final report on last year’s Budget’s performance has been released showing a surplus of $1.6 billion, $820 million better than estimated.
According to Treasurer Christian Porter, the 2010-11 Annual Report on State Finances (ARSF) showed that the stronger than expected surplus was due to expenses being postponed from 2010-11 into this year rather than from increases in revenue.
Mr Porter said that the stronger than expected result had allowed more money to be set aside for Perth Stadium (a further $100 million) and the New Children’s Hospital ($70 million).
“General Government expenses grew by only 5.2 per cent in 2010-11 - the lowest rate of growth since 2003-04,” Mr Porter said.
“This was $675 million lower than the recent Budget estimate.”
He said general Government sector salaries (which made up 40 per cent of total expenses) grew by only 6.6 per cent in 2010-11 - the lowest rate in nine years.
He said this was because the Government had reined in costs through voluntary separations from the PS, a ceiling on public sector staff numbers, and its PS wages policy.
He said that while the Government had controlled agency expense growth, the 2010-11 surplus was not extra money in the bank because most of the increase was committed for spending this year.
He said revenue was only $145 million higher than expected
Premier Colin Barnett said the report also highlighted the ongoing penalty Western Australia received in relation to GST revenue grants.
“WA received the same dollar amount of GST grants ($3.2billion) in 2010-11 as it did in 2003- 04, despite the national GST pool increasing by a massive 35 per cent” Mr Barnett said.
“The State Government will continue to fight for a better deal for Western Australia, as the nation’s economic stronghold.”
The ARSF can be accessed at this PS News link.
27 September, 2011
Teachers resource for
first class curriculum
A new online package of resources for teachers and students to get the most from the Australian Curriculum has been announced by the Federal Minister for School Education, Peter Garrett.
According to Mr Garrett, the $41.2 million package would give all schools in metropolitan, rural and regional areas of WA access to new materials for the first seven subject areas so far developed under the Curriculum.
It will also offer cross-curriculum capabilities.
“The new Australian Curriculum will be the first fully digital curriculum,” Mr Garrett said.
“It will be accessible online to every school and teacher and will be linked to a wealth of additional materials that will be continuously expanded and updated over time.”
He said the funding would go to the publicly owned private company Education Services Australia which will work in partnership with education authorities and other groups to source and develop the new resources.
“We’ll also be offering online professional development support and resources for teachers, to help them deliver the new curriculum as it is rolled out over the coming years,” Mr Garrett said.
“It means that teachers and kids in regional or remote schools will have the same digital resources as city schools, so all students will have equal opportunities to learn and do well.”
He said the new package included $10 million to support teachers in their professional development; $5 million for language teaching and learning; $11.4 million for online materials for teaching English, maths, science, history, geography, languages and the arts; $5 million for technical improvements to enable the materials to be used by schools across Australia; and $9.8 million to make each part of the Curriculum easy-to-find for teachers.
Mr Garrett said new Curriculum would be a “huge benefit” to students and schools across the country because for the first time Australia would have a consistent, nation-wide program of learning for all students.
He said the Australian Curriculum was already being implemented in the ACT with some subjects due to be introduced in other States and Territories in 2012.
More information is available from this PS News link.
27 September, 2011
New laws pounce
on cat owners
New laws to reduce the number of cats being euthanised across the State have been passed by the lower House of Parliament.
Minister for Local Government, John Castrilli said domestic cat laws would reduce the high proportion of stray cats and provide for responsible cat ownership.
“In essence, the new cat legislation will make way for better management of the unwanted impacts of cats on the community and the natural environment, causing nuisance and damage to property,” Mr Castrilli said.
“It also provides for the reunion of cats with their owners.”
He said the Cat Bill 2011 required the identification, registration and sterilisation of domestic cats in WA, and gave Local Governments the power to administer and enforce the legislation.
“I have listened to concerns of some groups in the community and the register will no longer be a public document,” Mr Castrilli said.
“Local governments will be able to deal with irresponsible owners, including cat hoarders, and cats that are not owned.”
He said Local Government rangers would be able to enter premises with a warrant issued by a justice when an offence had been committed.
“This is necessary to deal with situations where, for example, kittens are bred in terrible conditions or numerous cats are not being cared for,” he said.
“93 per cent of WA cat owners have already sterilised their cats and for these people this legislation will make little difference as they are already doing the right thing.”
He said there would be a phase-in period to allow Local Governments and the public time to prepare for the legislation’s introduction from 1 November 2012 and registration, microchipping and sterilisation would only be required by 1 November 2013.
27 September, 2011
Showbags survive
consumer checks
Product safety officers from Consumer Protection have given the showbags for this year’s Perth Royal Show the thumbs up for safety.
Minister for Commerce, Simon O’Brien said the officers had inspected 249 showbags and found that all contents had passed stringent tests and met national safety standards.
“The visual inspections were particularly focused on toys and novelty items for children under three years of age to make sure they didn’t pose a choking or strangulation hazard, or have sharp edges,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Specialised metal scanning equipment was used to detect if toys and novelties in the bags had high levels of lead and other dangerous elements such as cadmium, chromium, mercury or arsenic.”
He said almost 200 items were scanned and no item was found to have higher than approved levels of dangerous heavy metals.
He said annual product safety inspections were carried out at the invitation of the Royal Agricultural Society (RAS) before the showbags went on sale.
“This close co-operation between Consumer Protection and the RAS provides show goers with an assurance that all showbags meet the highest possible safety standards,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Consumers should be advised that, when selecting toys, they need to consider whether the toys are suitable for the age and stage of development of the child.”
He said buying showbags was one of the highlights of going to the Royal Show and now consumers had peace of mind that what they were buying was safe.
27 September, 2011
Public transport
the way to go
Perth’s public transport system has been described as one of the safest in the world following the official opening of a Central Monitoring Room for its network of closed circuit television surveillance cameras (CCTV).
Opening the new $7.4million monitoring room (CMR), Minister for Transport, Troy Buswell said the Public Transport Authority’s (PTA) existing CCTV facilities were recognised internationally, and had now been upgraded to a consolidated, network-wide system.
“Perth public transport users can feel even safer, knowing that this CCTV facility allows security staff to see exactly what is going on at every train station and the seven major bus interchanges at any time, day or night,” Mr Buswell said.
“The upgraded and integrated CMR allows for 1,363 cameras to watch more than 130 million boardings 24/7 and more than trebles Transperth’s monitoring capacity, from six to 20 surveillance workstations.”
He said the PTA’s 2011 Passenger Satisfaction Monitor had shown increases in passenger perceptions of their personal safety on both buses and trains.
“The survey showed that 88 per cent of train passengers and 82 per cent of bus passengers are satisfied with the system overall, and particularly pleasing is that the biggest increases were in figures for night-time safety perceptions of bus users,” he said.
“This reflects the results of a full year of heightened bus security measures implemented by the Government in late 2009, including security cabs in buses operating after 6pm, a duress alarm for every driver, and a doubling of the mobile patrols which shadow buses on certain routes.”
Mr Buswell said while Perth was already witnessing good results in terms of safety and security, the new CMR would significantly bolster previous efforts.
“The adjoining Video Surveillance Office will be used to package the CMR information required by the courts, police and for other investigations, as well as to process footage from more than 5,000 cameras on buses and trains,” he said.
27 September, 2011
Council elections
to go to the wire
The Minister for Local Government, John Castrilli has welcomed a reduction in the number of Councillors facing election in the Local Government elections due to be held in October.
Mr Castrilli said 42 of the State’s 138 Local Governments would not have to have an election due to uncontested vacancies, with seven having unfilled positions.
He said there were 662 advertised vacancies for the office of Councillor at the close of nominations, 12 for Mayor or Shire President and 244 (36 per cent) to be elected unopposed with 11 unfilled.
“Over the past two years I have advocated for Local Governments to voluntarily reduce their numbers to a range between six and nine,” Mr Castrilli said.
“As a result of voluntary reductions there were 38 fewer vacancies this year.”
He said there was ample scope to reduce the number of elected members further to increase competition for Council positions and achieve a focus on strategic and policy matters.
“Contested elections are a healthy sign of local democracy and I encourage elected Councils to operate at a more strategic level,” he said.
“There have been indications from within the Local Government sector of disconnect between some elected members and their community and I have taken steps to address those concerns through legislation.”
Mr Castrilli said the Western Australian Local Government elections would be held by popular vote on 15 October 2011.
27 September, 2011
Alcohol report is
sobering read
A new report has called for a new approach to protect children and young people from alcohol-related harm.
Commissioner for Children and Young People, Michelle Scott said Speaking out about reducing alcohol-related harm on Children and Young People had identified a community-wide culture of alcohol and excessive drinking that had a significant influence on the decisions made by young people.
Ms Scott said the report also found the ready availability of alcohol was a particularly important issue to address.
“The need for better education about the harm alcohol causes and the role parents play in actively facilitating or delaying alcohol consumption by young people is also raised in the report,” Ms Scott said.
She said the report showed a comprehensive review of the State’s approach to alcohol and the harm it had on young people was needed.
“The current strategies do not appear to be working for a significant number of young people,” she said.
“This is a multi-faceted problem and the solution requires a comprehensive strategy over the long term, but we have seen through public safety issues such as tobacco, seatbelts and car child restraints that broad cultural change is possible.”
The report was released at the Commissioner’s forum supported by the McCusker Centre for Action on Alcohol and Youth (MCAAY), the National Drug Research Institute and the Drug and Alcohol Office, which was attended by a selection of youth representatives; leading WA drug and alcohol researchers; and Government policy makers.
The full report is available from the Commissioner’s website this PS News link.
27 September, 2011
Feds warned to stay
out of WA parks
Concerns have been raised over the Federal Government’s latest move to regulate Western Australian national parks.
Minister for the Environment, Bill Marmion said the Commonwealth Government proposed to impose a further level of regulation on State national parks but Western Australia’s conservation legislation and environmental impact assessment process already provided strong protection for the parks and nature reserves.
“Essentially what the Commonwealth is proposing is that any significant management activity, improvement in visitor access or facilities or development in a national park or nature reserve would have to be referred under the Federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act,” Mr Marmion said.
“Not only would it add another layer of uncertainty, bureaucracy and delays in decision making, it would make it more difficult to get support in some quarters to establish new national parks and nature reserves in Western Australia.”
He said he had raised his concerns with the Federal Environment Minister Tony Burke at the last national environment ministers’ meeting in Canberra.
“The Environment Ministers from Victoria and New South Wales also shared my concerns,” he said.
“This is simply another unnecessary level of bureaucracy.”
Mr Marmion said the Commonwealth proposal was to include issues of biodiversity in national parks and nature reserves as a trigger for Commonwealth decision-making powers over areas under the EPBC Act.
He said the proposal would affect 1,380 parks and reserves covering almost 7 per cent of the State.
27 September, 2011
Land developers
share their plans
A survey of land developers’ intentions has been launched by the Minister for Planning to play a key role in the Urban Development Program.
The Minister, John Day said the Developers’ Intention Survey sought important information on the timing, yield and development constraints of future proposals for land development from private and public landowners and developers across Western Australia.
“Data collected through the survey is used to assess future land supply and infrastructure co-ordination needs and helps identify constraints in the planning and development process that may require intervention,” Mr Day said.
“The survey results allow developers and the wider community to make more informed development decisions.
He said the surveys also informed major programs of the Department of Planning and the Western Australian Planning Commission including the Urban Development Program; Directions 2031 and Beyond; and demographic forecasting projects.
He said information to be gathered would relate to residential land and built developments of five or more lots or dwellings; major industrial land areas; as well as commercial, retail and mixed-use developments.
Mr Day said the survey would also look into issues related to transient and workers as well as tourism developments.
“This survey is an example of how the private sector and individuals work with Government agencies to progress the development of WA,” he said.
“The survey will be widely distributed to a range of participants including private and commercial developers, State Government agencies and Local Government.”
More information about the 2011 Developers’ Intention Survey was available from this PS News link.
27 September, 2011
Heritage paper is
something new
A discussion paper has been released for public comment on a proposed replacement for the Heritage of Western Australia Act 1990.
The discussion paper sets out a series of proposals to form the basis of a new Heritage Act.
Minister for Heritage, John Castrilli said the public was invited to help shape the development of new legislation to direct the future management of the State’s cultural heritage.
Mr Castrilli said the current legislation, introduced into State Parliament 21 years ago, was outdated and out of touch.
“What we need is a Heritage Act that is open, transparent and easy for the public and property owners to understand,” he said.
“The new Act will reflect best practice in the recognition and protection of heritage buildings.”
He said the discussion paper included issues such as repair orders; simplifying registration; facilitating development; recognising local heritage; and the form and function of the Heritage Council itself.
Mr Castrilli said Western Australia’s heritage was a “rich and valuable asset” and the State Government was building a secure future for WA’s significant heritage places.
“Heritage is about respecting the past, present and future and it is important that we set a clear statement of priorities to guide us along the way,” he said.
“Extensive consultation is vital in the process of achieving a new Heritage Act and there are many people and organisations with a strong and personal interest in our cultural heritage.”
Mr Castrilli said the discussion paper was the second phase of public consultation, following the release of a consultation paper in April, which attracted more than 100 submissions.
The latest paper is available at this PS News link.
27 September, 2011
Mining module
hits paydirt
A new online module has been introduced to improve the lodgement and tracking of applications by mining companies in Western Australia.
Minister for Mines and Petroleum, Norman Moore said the new module of the Petroleum and Geothermal Register (PGR) had gone live this month, enabling online lodgement for drilling applications.
“The Department of Mines and Petroleum’s upgraded systems allow industry to electronically lodge and track the progress of an Application to Drill,” Mr Moore said.
“For example, a finance team in Houston (USA) can pay an account while an Application to Drill is lodged in Sydney and a Perth office can monitor online the progress of the company’s application.”
He said supporting documentation can be submitted electronically at the same time ensuring a streamlined and seamless lodgement and approval process.
“Internal users have an integrated workflow tracking function that allows drilling assessments to be monitored while at the same time enhancing reporting capabilities,” the Minister said.
“Industry representatives have made valuable contributions to ensure the system adequately met external user needs.”
Mr Moore said the ongoing improvements to online services for the resources sector was part of a commitment to streamlining approvals to ensure Western Australia remained an attractive investment destination.
He said WA Petroleum’s database had been judged the best in the world by the Fraser Institute Global Petroleum Survey.
For more information or to access the PGR visit this PS News link.
27 September, 2011
Pilot program
flying high
New funding has been announced for a one-year pilot program to promote the benefits of physical activity.
Reclink is an initiative of the Department of Sport and Recreation (DSR), and comprises a range of structured and unstructured, planned and informal programs and activities across the State.
The Department said the new program aimed to promote and deliver the health, social and economic benefits of physical activity to an “otherwise largely inactive population group”.
It said one of Reclink’s main programs was the grassroots AFL football program in which six teams competed in the Perth/Fremantle Football League.
The Rangeview Bulldogs, Banksia Hill Kangaroos, Halo Magpies, Balga Bombers, Midland Miracles and Gilmore College made up the Reclink Australia Grand Final Series which was considered “always a shining light on the Reclink calendar”.
“The Grand Finals allow us to gather together, renew friendships and share in the Spirit of Reclink,” a spokesperson for the program said.
“Whilst games will be played, scores kept, trophies and medals awarded, our grand final days are always remembered for the sense of community and feelings of happiness created.”
DSR said its support was aimed at increasing the number of member agencies, participants and geographical reach of the activities with the results of the pilot to be used to gauge future support for Reclink in WA.
“Reclink’s work targets some of the community’s most vulnerable and isolated people – those who are experiencing mental health issues, disability, homelessness, addictions, and social and economic hardship,” the Department said.
“Reclink Australia has facilitated cooperative partnerships with a network of nearly 40 member agencies in the Perth metro area committed to encouraging participation in physical activity in a population group very under-represented in mainstream sport and arts programs and associations.”
The Grand Finals will be held this Thursday, 29 September at Fremantle Football Oval and everyone is invited to the free event.
27 September, 2011
Livestock movements
find way to database
Sheep and goat producers in Western Australia are now required to record mob-based movements on the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) database.
Brands Registrar with the Department of Agriculture and Food, Farran Dixon said the new recording requirements were designed to accelerate the tracing of sheep and goats in the case of a disease outbreak or the detection of a residue in meat, milk or fibre.
“One or more sheep or goat constitutes a mob and a mob-based movement (MBM) must be recorded on the database within 48 hours of arrival of the sheep at their destination property,” Mr Dixon said.
“If owners buy sheep or goats through a saleyard, send them direct to an abattoir, feedlot, export depot, or exhibit them at a show, the recording will be done for them.”
He said for movement of sheep and goats between farms with different Property Identification Codes (PICs), the owner or person responsible for the animals at the destination property was responsible for recording the MBM on the NLIS database.
He said the actual entry to the database could be made by the buyer or seller or by organising a third party to complete it for them.
“Movements to agistment properties, regardless of who owns or leases those properties must also be recorded on the database,” Mr Dixon said.
“Stock owners who have an NLIS database account for cattle can use it to record sheep and goat movements.
“Those who do not have an account need to create one by going to the NLIS database at this www.nlis.mla.com.au and following the prompts.”
He said Department staff would be providing training for Community Resource Centres staff to assist stock owners without computers and paper submission forms were obtainable from Meat and Livestock Australia at a small cost.
More information is available from this PS News link or this PS News link.
27 September, 2011
Land managers
land new Act
A new Bill to give Aboriginal people a greater role in managing and using conservation reserves has been passed.
The Conservation Legislation Amendment Act 2011 was introduced into State Parliament to fulfil longstanding goals of Aboriginal people to be involved in the management of land and to carry out traditional activities ‘on country’.
Minister for the Environment, Bill Marmion said the Act recognised the intrinsic connection between Aboriginal people and country, and would help promote conservation partnerships between Aboriginal people and the State Government.
“The passing of the Bill is a significant achievement,” Mr Marmion said.
“It will allow the State to deliver on commitments under native title agreements, such as the Burrup and Maitland Industrial Estates Agreement; Ord Final Agreement; and Yawuru Indigenous Land Use Agreement, as well as the agreements for the proposed Browse LNG Precinct.”
He said a centrepiece of the agreements was the collaboration to manage land and waters by Aboriginal people and the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC).
“The Act will also help to deliver the Kimberley Science and Conservation Strategy [which] recognises that Aboriginal people have a vital role to play in maintaining the Kimberley’s rich natural and cultural heritage,” he said.
“The Act amends the Conservation and Land Management Act 1984 and the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 to provide increased opportunities for Aboriginal people to be actively involved in, and contribute their knowledge to, the management of land and waters.”
Mr Marmion said DEC would be consulting with key Aboriginal groups on the preparation of draft Regulations under the Act.
27 September, 2011
Survey digs into
mining tax
A new poll has found a majority of West Australians support a tax on the mining sector.
The Federal Government’s Special Minister of State, Gary Gray said he welcomed the release of national polling that showed 54 per cent of WA residents supporting a proposed Minerals Resource Rent Tax (MRRT).
Mr Gray said the research conducted by Per Capita indicated that most West Australians supported the principle of sharing the benefits of the success of the mining industry.
“According to the Per Capita Tax Survey, which asked 1,300 Australians their views on personal tax contributions, there is a continuing desire for a better tax system,” Mr Gray said.
He said the survey asked questions including “do you agree with the Australian Government’s intention to place a Minerals Resource Rent Tax on the ‘super’ profits earned by mining companies?”
Per Capital said their findings were “surprising” and the pattern of support by State was not as expected.
“The conventional wisdom holds that opposition would be highest in the mining states of Queensland and Western Australia, but these States exhibit relatively high levels of support at 52 per cent and 54 per cent respectively, with 27 per cent and 38 per cent opposed,” the research company said.
“Conversely, Victoria, which one might expect to provide strong backing for an MRRT, is the only State where less than half of respondents support the idea (46 per cent).”
Mr Gray said the research was carried out before the announcement of BHP Billiton’s recent annual net profit of $22.46 billion, which was an increase of 85.9 per cent on the previous year.
“The revenue from the MRRT will support all Australian businesses, including those that aren’t in the fast lane of the mining boom, through a cut to the corporate tax rate and substantial tax relief for the nation’s 2.7 million small businesses,” he said.
“In addition, the Government will invest substantial portions of the money in infrastructure, including $480 million for the Gateway project, which will deliver substantial productivity gains not just for the mining sector but the whole West Australian economy.”
27 September, 2011
New wave buoy has
ups and downs
A new directional wave buoy has been deployed to provide improved information for Commercial fishermen and the recreational boating community operating out of Esperance.
Oceanographic Team Leader at the Department of Transport (DoT), Tony Lamberto said the new buoy, which records the direction of waves as well as the height, had been deployed 10 nautical miles from Bandy Creek Boat Harbour to provide fishermen, boat owners and the wider community with comprehensive information about coastal conditions.
Mr Lamberto said the information from the buoy would significantly benefit the safety of those going to sea and provide long-term data to assist in the management of the coastline and also in the planning and design of coastal infrastructure.
“The initiative represents a significant improvement in the information available to skippers operating out of Esperance.” Mr Lamberto said.
“Now skippers can log on to DoT’s Coastal Data Centre website at any time and immediately access near real time wave height and direction to better assess conditions off the coast.”
He said DoT introduced its first directional wave buoy off Rottnest in 2004 to provide more detailed information about conditions off the metropolitan coast.
He said information from the new buoy off Esperance would add to data already being received from DoT’s network of directional wave buoys located at Albany, Cape Naturaliste, Rottnest and Jurien with another directional buoy to be deployed off Exmouth soon.
“The quality and detail of the coastal data collected by this network is a valuable resource,” he said.
“It is used for coastal infrastructure planning and design, improve marine safety and all maritime commercial and recreational activities.”
He said the information added to the understanding of the wave climate off the coast and was also used by the Bureau of Meteorology as part of daily weather forecasting.
27 September, 2011
Eye screen program
sees way to award
A CSIRO program providing eye screening in regional and remote communities of Western Australia has been recognised at a National Awards ceremony.
Minister for Regional Development, Brendon Grylls congratulated the team behind the Remote-i research project for winning two awards at the recent 2011 National iAwards in Melbourne.
Mr Grylls said Remote-I had received funding from Royalties for Regions to deliver the program in WA’s Pilbara region with the aim of saving the eyesight of people in rural and remote areas through screening and early diagnosis.
The initiative was awarded the national e-Health iAward for providing a low cost, high quality eye screening system that gave people in regional Western Australia easier access to specialist ophthalmological services, as well as receiving the Victorian Government Inspiration award.
Mr Grylls said Royalties for Regions had provided funding of $397,000 to assist CSIRO undertake eye screenings for diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and other vision abnormalities.
“Limited access to eye specialists across regional areas of the State can make early diagnoses and treatment of eye disease difficult,” Mr Grylls said.
“This is particularly so in the Aboriginal population where there is a high incidence of diabetes which makes them more susceptible to developing eye disease.
“Being able to manage eye disease using cutting edge technology over the web is a great innovation.”
He said in addition to obtaining eye images, CSIRO also collected blood pressure and information based on a questionnaire for dementia-related symptoms.
“This data will be combined with retinal image analysis to study changes in the eye due to Alzheimer’s disease, stroke and cardiovascular disease,” Mr Grylls said.
“The purpose of this work will be to look for markers which will help in the development of non-invasive screening technology.”
He said as a result of winning the awards, CSIRO was eligible to compete at the Asia Pacific regional awards to be held in November 2011 in Thailand.
27 September, 2011
Tourist papers for Library
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which will see the historical paper and digital records of the Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Council (WAITOC) archived and maintained by the State Library of Western Australia, has been signed.
WAITOC and the State Library of Western Australia entered the agreement to ensure the records of the WAITOC journey would be preserved and made accessible to current and future generations.
Western Australia remains the only State jurisdiction in Australia to have a dedicated Indigenous tourism industry association.
CHOGM faces found
Fifty local faces of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) portrait exhibition have been revealed.
‘Nomad Two Worlds’ was founded by Perth-born and internationally-renowned photographer Russell James who was commissioned to develop an outdoor exhibition of 53 large-scale portrait photographs representing the 53 Commonwealth countries.
The announcement comes after a State-wide search to find 53 West Australians born in each of the Commonwealth countries attending CHOGM resulted in people from 50 of the 53 countries being identified.
CHOGM 2011 is to be held in Perth from 28-30 October and the exhibition will be based in the Murray and Hay Street Malls from Sunday 16 October until Friday 4 November.
More information is available from this PS News link.
Volunteers for badge
Nominations are now open for the inaugural Western Australian 50-Year Volunteer Service Badge.
The Volunteer Service Badge is designed to thank volunteers who have contributed half a century or more of service to the Western Australian community.
The Department of Communities coordinates the program with nomination forms available from the department’s website or by calling 655 1 8700.
Nominations close on 31 October 2011 and the presentation will take place at Government House on 4 December 2011.
Astronomers looking up
Australia and New Zealand astronomers are one step closer to hosting host the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) after completing their written bid.
Partners in the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR), Curtin University and the University of Western Australia, were among 47 agencies across Australia and New Zealand collaborating in the proposal to build the world’s most powerful radio telescope in WA.
The SKA is the most ambitious science project ever undertaken, involving 20 countries working to enable scientists to delve deeper into questions about the origins of the universe.
More information is available at Curtin Institute of Radio Astronomy (CIRA) and ICRAR.
Planning guidelines
off drawing board
New draft guidelines for structure planning of land use and urban development issues have been released by the Minister for Planning for public comment.
The Minister, John Day, said the new guidelines would ensure a consistent approach to structure planning for residential, commercial and recreational land uses across the State.
“These new guidelines will enhance efficiency and effectiveness of the planning system to the benefit of both the community and industry,” Mr Day said.
“The State Government, the development industry and planning profession have recognised inconsistencies within the existing use and implementation of structure plans and these proposals will help plan more efficiently for cohesive communities.”
He said the Department of Planning had been working with other Government Agencies to put the new plans together to ensure that information provided within structure plans was appropriate to the scale and level of the plan and explained clearly the type of information generally not included in structure plans.
“The guidelines will establish consistency in the format and content of structure plans and provide more clarity and consistency on statutory and non-statutory elements,” Mr Day said.
“Applicants, Local Government and the Western Australian Planning Commission will be provided with better guidance on the preparation of structure plans and assistance will be given to decision-making authorities in assessing whether a structure plan has provided the required information,” he said.
The new guidelines could be accessed at this PS News link and comments will be received until 16 November 2011.
20 September, 2011
Skills on show in
training awards
The Western Australian Training Awards have been presented to the State’s top achievers in the training sector.
Minister for Training and Workforce Development, Peter Collier hosted the presentations, saying the awards recognised the outstanding efforts of apprentices, trainees and vocational students as well as the contribution of training providers and employers.
Mr Collier said he was impressed by the high standard of finalists competing for the awards which reflected the quality and strength of WA’s training sector.
“Every finalist demonstrated excellence in their field and their success is sure to inspire other West Australians to embrace training,” Mr Collier said.
“The winners have done extremely well in their chosen areas and some will go on to represent WA on the national stage at the Australian Training Awards in Brisbane in November.”
He said more than 200 nominations were received for the awards this year with 47 finalists selected across 14 individual and group categories.
Among the PS-based winners were Abbey Sergeant of the Shire of Katanning who was judged Trainee of the Year; Amanda Smith from the South West Institute of Technology who was named Trainer of the Year; the City of Cockburn chosen as Employer of the Year; the Central Institute of Technology for its Training Initiative - Solid Futures; the WA College of Agriculture, Cunderdin for VET in Schools Excellence; Polytechnic West was named Large Training Provider Year; and the Central Institute of Technology was International Training Provider of the Year.
“I congratulate all the winners for their remarkable achievement and commend them for helping to raise the profile of training in WA,” Mr Collier said.
The full list of award recipients can be accessed at this PS News link.
20 September, 2011
Review turns up heat
on water policy
A review of the ‘first in, first served’ policy of water licensing has been released for public comment.
Minister for Water, Bill Marmion released the review saying it was part of a move towards a broader water reform agenda and looked at alternatives to the current policy where water was licensed and allocated up to the full volume available on a ‘first in, first served’ basis.
The review paid special attention to how the Government prioritised access to water.
“The Department of Water has completed a discussion paper which outlines the issues surrounding the current policy and options for future policy change,” Mr Marmion said.
“As more of our groundwater and surface water areas come closer to full allocation, and as competition for water increases, this policy is becoming less effective for making sure we get the best value from our water resources.”
He said the discussion paper proposed a number of alternatives to the approach and they were receiving consideration.
“What we want now is wider discussion in the community and among water use sectors,” he said.
“I encourage comment on the discussion paper, which will be released for a period of six weeks.”
Mr Marmion said that among the proposals in the paper was retention of the ‘first in, first served’ approach until an area was 70 per cent allocated and there were no plans to change the policy allowing for water speculators.
He said the Department would finalise the policy early in 2012, based on the comments received.
The discussion paper can be accessed at this PS News link and comments would be accepted until 28 October 2011.
20 September, 2011
Minister on soapbox
over speakers corner
Potential participants in the Commonwealth Festival’s Speaker’s Corner have been urged to grasp the opportunity and register to let their views be known.
Minister for Culture and the Arts, John Day today called on the community to get behind Speaker’s Corner, one of many events involving community participation in celebrating the people and cultures of the Commonwealth.
“The concept reflects the values of the Commonwealth including democracy, good governance and egalitarianism,” Mr Day said.
“People may want to speak on the 2011 Commonwealth theme - Women as Agents of Change - or talk about issues relevant to their community and the Commonwealth.”
He said participants would be encouraged to speak out about whatever they wished but should keep in mind that the crowds that flocked to Speakers’ Corner would include all ages including young children.
“A number of organisations and causes have already signed up for the Speakers’ Corner including Count Us In, Oxfam Australia and Make Poverty History, and I encourage individuals and organisations to request a timeslot in the Speakers’ Corner and get their voice heard,” Mr Day said.
“The People’s Space is the heart of the festival and a central location where the Perth community can explore what it means to be a member of the Commonwealth community and experience live music, markets, multicultural food, displays by Commonwealth organisations, exhibitions, street theatre, kids’ activities and films,” he said.
The Commonwealth Festival Perth is to be held alongside the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) from 23 to 30 October with the People’s Space open from 26th to 29th.
Interest in the Speakers Corner can be registered at this PS News link.
20 September, 2011
Report is recipe for
teenage eating
The Department of Health has issued a report revealing that many Western Australian young people are not eating enough fruit and vegetables in their teenage years.
The report entitled Health and Wellbeing of Children in Western Australia 2010 Overview and Trends, shows that only 20.2 per cent of children aged 12 to 15 were eating the recommended daily serves of fruit compared to 98.7 per cent of children 4 to 7 years and 96.2 per cent between 8 and 11.
It also shows that only 22.3 per cent of children 12 to 15 ate the recommended daily serves of vegetables compared to 40.8 per cent of 8–11 year olds and 68.5 per cent of 4–7 year olds.
Dietician with the Department, Dr Christina Pollard said the survey findings reflected teenagers’ new found independence.
“As children get older, they start to have more control over what they eat,” Dr Pollard said.
“Many teenagers are much more susceptible to food marketing and peer group pressure than younger children and consequently the ‘healthiness’ of their diet can decline.
She said teenagers tended to eat food that may be perceived as cool rather than healthy but children who ate well early in life were more likely to continue eating healthy foods throughout adulthood.
“Eating a diet high in fruit and vegetables throughout life is essential for good nutrition,” Dr Pollard said.
“It protects us from chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and some cancers, and helps to avoid unwanted weight gain.”
She said the report provided a comprehensive picture of trends among young Western Australians across key areas including health, child development, lifestyle, mental health, school connectedness and family functioning.
She said it was based on data from the WA Health and Wellbeing Surveillance System, which monitored the health status of Western Australians of all age groups.
Dr Pollard said other findings in the report included that almost nine out of 10 children 15 and under were reported as having excellent or very good health which was similar to last year; more than a third of children were not breastfed for the recommended minimum of six months; only half the children between 5 and 15 took part in the recommended amount of physical activity; the majority (98.2%) lived in a smoke-free home; and almost a quarter were overweight or obese (22.3%).
The full report can be accessed at this PS News link.
20 September, 2011
Prisoners to make
work camp home
A new work camp has been opened at Warburton to allow more low-risk prisoners to be put to work helping out in their community.
Minister for Corrective Services, Terry Redman opened the 24-bed camp in the State’s central east saying it would enable low-risk, minimum-security prisoners from the region develop skills while undertaking valuable work on conservation, maintenance and community projects.
Mr Redman said the new work camp had a six-bed secure facility for use as short-term accommodation for selected prisoners to attend funerals and family visits.
He said the Government firmly believed in the principle of offenders giving back to the community and saw their development of work and life skills as ways of helping them avoid re-offending.
He said work camps focused on offenders undertaking projects wanted, and at times urgently needed, by the local community.
“Equally, we are committed to managing Aboriginal prisoners close to home and country, where assessed as suitable, for the benefit of prisoners and the community,” Mr Redman said.
“Through engagement in constructive activities and by staying closer to their family and the land, prisoners have a much better chance of rehabilitation.”
The Minister said that last financial year, around 70 work camp prisoners delivered more than 62,000 hours of community service worth almost $1 million.
The new Warburton Work Camp is in the Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku, 1500 km from Perth.
20 September, 2011
Safety awards awarded
The Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) and the Fire and Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia (FESA) were highly commended in the recent 2011 Australian Safer Communities Awards for their joint project, the Hazardous Material Incident Management Plan.
The top award was won by Surf Life Saving Western Australia and the Shire of Denmark was also commended in the Education, Training and Research category for its Evacuation Bag Initiative.
McWilliams top nurse
Tania McWilliams has taken top honours in the Western Australian 2011 Nurse/Midwife of the Year award.
Ms McWillliams was congratulated on her award by the State’s Chief Nurse and Midwifery Officer, Catherine Stoddart who said it was a fantastic achievement.
“Working in Princess Margaret Hospital’s Total Care Burns Unit, she has played a vital role educating and supporting staff members, so they can better help burns patients manage their wounds and improve their recovery,” Ms Stoddart said.
Name change for Kimberley
Kimberley TAFE is to become Kimberley Training Institute in a name change that signifies a change in direction for the college.
According to the Minister for Training and Workforce Development, Peter Collier, the new arrangement will allow the college more independence to deliver innovative and flexible training throughout the region.
Corrections helps RSL
The Department of Corrective Services (DCS) has signed an agreement with the WA branch of the Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) which will allow offenders sentenced to community work orders, and minimum security prisoners to assist with worthwhile projects to preserve the memory of former and serving members of the Australian Defence Force.
According to the Commissioner for Corrective Services, Ian Johnson, the deal is as much about rehabilitating offenders as it is about helping State heroes.
Volunteers to be awarded
A new award program has been established to honour volunteers who have given 50 years or more of voluntary service to a Western Australian organisation.
The new volunteering service badge is aimed at encouraging West Australians to engage in volunteering and was included in the Government’s Vital Volunteering 2011-2016 strategy.
Machinery study
WorkSafe has announced an inspection program to look at safety issues associated with machinery and equipment wholesaling.
The program will continue throughout the remainder of the financial year in both metropolitan and regional areas.
Dinosaur experts called in
Two dinosaur specialists have been engaged to find out more about dinosaur footprints found near the proposed Browse LNG Precinct north of Broome.
Deputy Director of the Department of State Development, Nicky Cusworth said the project was commissioned to improve understanding of the dinosaur footprint issue at the site and develop an appropriate approach to managing and minimising the impact of the industrial precinct on the valuable fossil records.
13 September, 2011
Auditor hits out at
conflict of interest
A performance report from the Auditor General has found that agencies needed to do more to identify and manage potential conflicts of interest when buying Information and Communication Technology products and services.
In his Second Public Sector Performance Report 2011, the Auditor General, Colin Murphy also found a need for policy improvements on the acceptance of gifts at the Department of Health.
In his examination of ICT procurement across six Agencies, Mr Murphy found that potential conflicts of interest were not effectively recognised or managed at half of them despite over $360 million being spent on the sector in 2009-10.
“Agencies need to proactively manage the risk of conflicts of interest by maintaining conflict of interest and gift registers,” Mr Murphy said.
“Where contracting arrangements present potential conflicts, these should be recognised and mitigation strategies established and documented.”
He found that most Agencies lacked comprehensive or up-to-date strategic ICT plans and half failed to fully comply with procurement policies for some of their contracting.
“This included failure to develop business cases, establish contract management plans, seek appropriate approvals and lack of competitive tendering for some contracting arrangements.”
He found Landgate to be the only agency that managed its ICT contracting and procurement well.
“Contractors can be a cost effective solution for the design and delivery of ICT systems but they can be an expensive waste of money,” Mr Murphy said.
In his investigation into the acceptance of gifts at the Department of Health, Mr Murphy found weaknesses in the management of free travel and gifts, especially the recognition of potential conflicts of interest and the management of the risks they posed.
“We did not find any evidence of improper conduct or influence,” he said.
“Even though Health has a robust policy for managing conflicts of interest, the travel requests did not document conflict of interest issues in accordance with this policy.”
He said the audit found that non-travel gifts which had been accepted by Health officers were in breach of Department policy.
“The policy does not allow gifts above a ‘negligible value’ to be accepted, but Health reported to Parliament that 25 gifts valued from $30 to $350, including wine, champagne, books and ball tickets, were accepted by a small proportion of staff.”
“Importantly, our testing found no instances of officers who reported having accepted gifts or travel benefits during the period we investigated were later involved in awarding contracts to the company that supplied them with the gift or travel,” Mr Murphy said.
He said many companies in the health-care industry offered to fund health professionals to attend local or international medical events and the potential conflicts of interest associated with accepting the offers had been the subject of much ongoing debate.
“Health has an obligation to address these risks,” Mr Murphy said.
“But quite simply, it would not be appropriate for any officers accepting gifts or travel to be involved in any procurement decisions relating to those companies.”
He said Health had now reviewed its approach to managing gifts and free travel and was implementing policy and process improvements which have been endorsed by the Public Sector Commission.
The full text of the Auditor General’s report, Second Public Sector Performance Report 2011, can be accessed at this PS News link.
13 September, 2011
Housing takes home
excellence awards
The Department of Housing has won five out of 13 award categories at the 2011 Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) Western Australia Awards for Excellence.
The honours were for its achievements in providing affordable housing through partnerships with the private and community sectors.
Minister for Housing, Troy Buswell congratulated the Department saying its awards were for Malvern Springs in Ellenbrook in the Affordable Development category, Bethanie Peel Community Housing in the Seniors Living category, Stella Orion Apartments in Success in the Medium Density Development category and for the Rising Star Award, and South Hedland New Living which won the Judges’ Awards for the second year running.
“These award-winning projects are excellent examples of how the State Government is leveraging partnerships with private developers and non-Government organisations to create attractive and affordable housing options without compromising quality,” Mr Buswell said.
“All the projects have a strong emphasis on delivering more affordable and appropriate housing for low to moderate income earners, and represent a diverse range of housing opportunities for average West Australians from first homebuyers to senior citizens, as well as for those in regional WA.”
The UDIA Awards for Excellence are among WA’s most respected and valued industry awards, and those presented to the Department of Housing recognise the commitment of the Department in working with its partners to deliver outstanding developments to the market.
Mr Buswell said the Department would continue to pursue effective partnerships to see the resources of Government combined with the expertise and experience of the private sector to ensure the successful implementation of the Affordable Housing Strategy, which had a target of delivering 20,000 affordable homes by 2020.
13 September, 2011
Anti-alcohol campaign
worth drinking to
A new advertising campaign urging women not to drink alcohol while pregnant, has been launched by the Minister for Mental Health, Helen Morton.
Mrs Morton said the campaign was also targeted at women planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.
She said the Strong Spirit Strong Future radio and TV campaign was designed to dispel any confusion within the community, even among health practitioners about drinking alcohol during pregnancy.
“The National Health and Medical Research Council guidelines warn women about the risks of drinking alcohol during pregnancy, which has associated harms to the unborn child, including Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder,” Mrs Morton said.
“This campaign is aimed at sending the clear message that the safest option is not to drink alcohol when you’re pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.”
She said research was in its early years in Australia but had identified a clear link between the consumption of alcohol during pregnancy and FASD.
She said without alcohol, FASD wouldn’t exist.”
She said children born with FASD could experience a range of permanent problems, including developmental delays; poor growth; birth defects; abnormal brain function; behavioural problems; and social skills deficits.
Mrs Morton said the campaign featured the flamboyant Aboriginal woman and health campaigner Mary G but the message was directed at the whole Western Australian community.
“While this is not just a problem for Aboriginal people, it is great to see Aboriginal people leading from the front with this campaign message to give our children a strong spirit for a strong future,” she said.
Mrs Morton said the Drug and Alcohol Office had received funding over four years from the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Indigenous Early Childhood Development National Partnership Agreement to develop a suite of Aboriginal FASD prevention initiatives.
13 September, 2011
Bikewest wheels out
spring program
The Department of Transport’s Bikewest program has launched ‘Cycle Instead in Spring’ to encourage more Western Australians to take advantage of the cycling facilities available across the State and discover the health, transport and recreational benefits of cycling.
Manager of Bikewest, Russell Greig said recent research showed cycling had already become an integral part of life for many West Australians with 512,000 people riding a bike each week.
Mr Greig said these rates were significantly higher than the national average.
“With a growing bicycle network featuring easy to access, well signed shared pathways and world-class on-road facilities where individuals and families can ride in safety, it’s easy to see why Western Australians have embraced cycling for transport and recreation,” Mr Greig said.
“The arrival of spring brings an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and what better way to do so than by cycling.”
He said a range of events had been scheduled across the State for the season, including the Cycle Instead Bike to Work Challenge from 5 September to 16 October.
He said this event was free to enter and participating teams could win up to $1,500 worth of prizes just by cycling whenever they could over the six-week period.
Mr Geig said Cycle Instead in Spring was organised by the Bikewest unit and supported by community groups and local governments.
He said more information was available from this PS News link.
13 September, 2011
Firefighters line up
for recognition
The hard work and dedication of the State’s volunteer and career firefighters have been recognised with the announcement of the finalists in the 2011 WA Firefighting Awards.
According to the Chief Operations Officer of the Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA), Craig Hynes, the 11 finalists had all gone above and beyond the call of duty to be nominated by their peers and members of the WA community.
Mr Hynes said they should be very proud of their efforts.
“These people have been recognised in their local communities for their outstanding efforts in making a difference,” Mr Hynes said.
“The Firefighting Awards not only acknowledge the hard work and commitment of these finalists, but are a great opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge the work of all firefighters in Western Australia.”
He said that last financial year, over 28,000 career and volunteer firefighters responded to more than 28,380 incidents.
“These everyday men and women go out to protect us and our homes from danger and reduce the risk to the WA community,” Mr Hynes said.
He said the nominees were judged on criteria that included devotion to duty, kindness, understanding, compassion and courage in the line of duty as well as their contribution to the efficiency and growth of firefighting, their achievements in community education or community based fire prevention programs; and their involvement in the development or implementation of a new idea or initiative.
The awards will be presented later this month.
The finalists are:
Career Fire and Rescue Award:
Andrew Hinton – South Metropolitan Region
Jason Welsh – Perth Fire and Rescue Service
Volunteer Fire and Rescue award:
Andrew Munro – Rockingham Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service
Phil Van Der Merwe – Merredin Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service
Roleystone Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service
Murray Lang Bush Fire Service Award:
Graham Rickerby – Gibson Bush Fire Brigade
Steve Thomas – Preston Beach Bush Fire Brigade
Darryle Wilson – Yarloop Bush Fire Brigade
Roleystone Bush Fire Brigade
Youth Achievement award:
Duncan Reynolds – Kalamunda Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade
Cody Woolhouse – Mt Barker Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service
13 September, 2011
Chef makes dinner
out of archives
The State Records Office has thrown open its archives to accomplished chef Hadleigh Troy to revisit the menus from State Dinners in the 1920s for ideas to cater for a public lunch during the Commonwealth Festival Perth.
Minister for Culture and the Arts, John Day today announced that Eating the Archives would be a special event and online exhibition on Friday 28 October in the People’s Space at the Perth Cultural Centre (PCC) and members of the public would be invited to take part.
“The staged luncheon will not be a re-creation of a single historic dinner but a demonstration of how historical archives can be reinterpreted to be relevant today,” Mr Day said.
“The idea for this event emerged when archivists from the State Records Office (SRO) uncovered a treasure trove of menus and documentation about State banquets.”
Minister for Agriculture and Food, Terry Redman said Mr Troy would use fresh, local produce to interpret the archives with a creative and modern twist.
“The Department of Agriculture and Food has partnered with SRO for this event and the dishes will be prepared using premium quality WA produce supported by the Buy West Eat Best campaign,” Mr Redman said.
“Eating the Archives will bring history alive and connect people with the State archive collection but it also throws the spotlight on the best local produce WA has to offer.”
Mr Troy, who is head chef and owner of Restaurant Amuse, said he never expected to find himself trawling through archives for menu ideas.
“The process of putting on the gloves and looking through all the old archives surprised me and I drew unexpected inspiration from handling original documents,” Mr Troy said.
“Asparagus and aspic were definitely the food fashions of the day, like heirloom carrots would be today; heirloom refers to vegetables grown before the 1950s - before commercial farming led to hybrids - you could call them archival vegies.”
The Commonwealth Festival Perth will run from 23 to 30 October and is supported by the Department of Culture and the Arts and Lotterywest.
Lunchgoers keen to secure a place at Mr Troy’s public table can register their interest online at the SRO’s website at this PS News link.
13 September, 2011
Union delegates congregate
Over 120 delegates from the Community and Public Sector Union/Civil Service Association of WA are meeting this week at the union’s annual Delegates convention Delcon.
Details of the meeting program can be accessed at this PS News link.
Seniors card office open
A new WA Seniors Card Centre has opened on the second floor of 140 William Street in Perth’s CBD.
The new office is more accessible for seniors clients who can catch a free train during designated times with their Seniors Card to arrive virtually at the centre’s doorstep.
The Seniors’ Telephone Information Line has also been extended by two hours a day and will now be available between 8.30am and 4.30pm.
New jobs for SW Perth
Forty new jobs for Indigenous job seekers have been announced for the south west metropolitan area of Perth in the retail, hospitality and local government sectors.
The Federal Minister for Indigenous Employment, Senator Mark Arbib and MP for Brand, Gary Gray said the South West Perth Keep Australia Working Committee had identified Indigenous disadvantage as a significant issue in the area.
They said the Job Ready To Jobs project would provide the opportunities and run for the next 18 months.
Sponge named after scientist
A new species of sponge discovered in the Perth Canyon off Rottnest Island has been named after the Chief Scientist of Western Australia, Professor Lyn Beazley,
The species, Manihinea lynbeazleyae, has been named to acknowledge Professor Beazley’s dedicated advocacy of science in WA and her strong support of sponge research and the work of the Western Australian Museum.
The sponge was identified by Dr Jane Fromont from the WA Museum in collaboration with Dr Andrzej Pisera from the Institute of Paleobiology at the Polish Academy of Sciences.
Pilbara youth workers
The Federal Government has announced that eight young Indigenous jobseekers are being trained as youth workers in their East Pilbara communities.
A partnership between the Commonwealth and the Martu Trust was providing participants with accredited qualifications and work experience through the Western Desert Youth Aspirations Program.
The participants will gain Certificate III level qualifications and be good role models for young Indigenous people living in the Western Desert.
6 September, 2011
CCC police report
ranks complaints
Internal police investigations into allegations of serious misconduct have been judged inadequate and a threat to community confidence in policing.
The Corruption and Crime Commission made the finding in its report Management of Misconduct by Western Australia Police tabled in Parliament.
The Commission found however that police had dealt adequately with over 96 per cent of allegations of misconduct.
Director of Corruption Prevention at the CCC, Roger Watson, said the report found that investigations by the Internal Affairs Unit into a small number of serious cases failed to deal with them thoroughly and rigorously.
It also found a significant number of misconduct allegations that were incorrectly recorded by police as non-misconduct.
Mr Watson said some of the report’s conclusions were based on cases up to four years old and since then there was evidence the Internal Affairs Unit had improved the quality of its work.
He said examples of inadequate investigations covered in the report included two men being attacked by a police dog and tasered following a high-speed pursuit; an alleged sexual assault by a detective that eventually went to court and recorded a conviction; a police officer firing shots into a car after a high speed pursuit while his partner was struggling with the driver inside; and an officer using his position to harass another officer’s estranged wife.
The report found positive misconduct management practices in the Police Complaints Administration Centre, the Kimberley, Pilbara, Great Southern, Central Metropolitan, West Metropolitan, Wheatbelt, Eastern Metropolitan and South East Metropolitan Districts, and the Specialist Crime Unit.
It also noted that there had been significant changes to the police management team in the Peel District and that quality control practices in the Internal Affairs Unit had been reviewed.
The CCC report made seven recommendations, including that police review their approach to apologising to complainants; that they review their approach to dealing with conflicts of interest and unauthorised computer access; and that the Internal Affairs Unit improves its quality control processes.
The full text of the report is available at this PS News link.
6 September, 2011
Building overhaul to
nail improvements
A major makeover of the Building Commission is expected to benefit both consumers and the industry according to the Minister for Commerce, Simon O’Brien.
Mr O’Brien said the new-look Commission along with a new Building Services Board would replace the former Builders’ Registration Board, Painters’ Registration Board and Building Disputes Tribunal.
He said the makeover was part of a Building Regulation Reform package that would deliver the most significant transformation to Western Australian building legislation in more than 50 years as well as reflect modern building practices.
He said the package also included new laws that provided a more flexible framework for the registration and regulation of building service providers in Western Australia.
He said under the new arrangements, the Building Commission would have powers to grant and renew registrations, grant owner-builder approvals and deal with complaints.
“Builders, painters and building surveyors are currently registered under three separate statutes, which is replaced with a single, modern and streamlined system of registration and approval,” Mr O’Brien said.
He said the Building Commission was a division of the Department of Commerce and included a new position of Building Commissioner which would monitor developments in the building industry as they related to the regulation of building services; administer registration for building occupations; deal with complaints and disputes between consumers and building service practitioners; and issue public warnings about unsatisfactory services.
Mr O’Brien said the new legislation and strengthened Commission came into effect on 29 August and transitional arrangements were in place to ensure the smooth handling of registrations, licensing, disputes, and the provision of information and advice to consumers and industry.
More information is available from this PS News link, by emailing info@buildingcommission.wa.gov.au, or by calling 1300 489 099.
6 September, 2011
Council planning
is new strategy
Changes to the law have been made to allow local governments to be more strategic in their approach to planning for the future.
According to the Minister for Local Government, John Castrilli, all local governments in Western Australia will be required to develop a Strategic Community Plan and Corporate Business Plan by June 2013.
Mr Castrilli said the Strategic Community Plan had been designed to connect community aspirations with local government long-term strategies and the Corporate Business Plan would link the strategic plan to Council operations, financial planning, asset management and workforce planning.
He said new Regulations under the Local Government Act 1995 set out a minimum requirement for integrated planning and reporting.
“Integrated planning and reporting gives local governments a framework to address issues such as community safety, financial, human resources as well as asset and infrastructure requirements,” Mr Castrilli said.
“Building the integrated planning capacity of local governments is of vital importance as we work together to strengthen the sector in WA.”
He said the framework had been introduced into WA as part of the Local Government Reform Program and the Department of Local Government was available to assist local governments with their community planning, management of assets and financial planning and had the tools and information to do so.
He said more information and assistance could be found at this PS News link.
6 September, 2011
Progress report
tackles violence
A mid-term progress report on whole-of-Government responses to family domestic violence has been released by the Minister for Child Protection, Robyn McSweeney.
Mrs McSweeney said the WA Strategic Plan for Family and Domestic Violence 2009-2013 had been launched in November 2009 with the aim of achieving State-wide reform of responses to family domestic violence and improvements in integrated responses across Government.
She said there had been 33,925 incidents of family and domestic violence reported in WA between 2009-10, a “saddening statistic” that called for more effective approaches and better co-ordinated efforts across Government.
“The cost of violence against women to the Australian economy in 2004 was $8.1 billion alone and in 2009-10, 12 people in WA lost their lives due to senseless violence,” Mrs McSweeney said.
“The mid-term report is important in assessing where we are at in implementing our domestic violence plan against three key areas including prevention and early intervention; safety for victims; and accountability for perpetrators.”
She said the work done to implement WA’s strategic plan for domestic violence put it in a position to join a national 12-year program to reduce violence against women and children.
“The focus for WA’s strategic plan will be to strengthen existing strategies and approaches towards domestic violence while increasing the numbers of women and children allowed to live in their homes without the fear of violence against them,” Mrs McSweeney said.
She also welcomed moves to tighten up Violence Restraining Orders (VRO) by imprisoning perpetrators who continued to breach them.
“The work Attorney General Christian Porter has done to improve the penalties against those who continually breach orders to only commit more serious crimes against their victims has been outstanding,” she said.
“Any victim of domestic violence can now confidently expect that if an offender breaches a VRO three times, they can be locked-up.
“This will give the community more confidence in our justice system to protect innocent victims of domestic violence,” Mrs McSweeney said.
6 September, 2011
Computer first for
kids in care
Western Australia has become the first State in Australia to embrace hi-tech computer software that dramatically improves the way children in care provide feedback on their concerns and experiences.
Minister for Child Protection, Robyn McSweeney announced details of the new resource to coincide with National Child Protection Week which runs to 11 September.
She said the web-based software tool ‘Viewpoint’ would be available by the end of the year for all children and young people in the care of the Department for Child Protection.
“The Department is leading the way in Australia as the first to adopt Viewpoint for the benefit of all children in care,” Mrs McSweeney said.
“The software is a fun way for children to have a say in their care plans and give feedback about what’s going well for them and where we need to improve the support we provide to them as partners in their care.”
She said it also gave case workers the opportunity to understand the way the world looked from the child’s perspective.
According to Mrs McSweeney, the computer program which is already being used effectively in the United Kingdom, engages children in self-administered interviews to explore their views, wishes and concerns about being in care.
She said Viewpoint provided a non-threatening environment where children could feel able to express themselves better than they might in a face-to-face conversation with adults.
She said animated characters guided the user through a series of colourful screens with questions about a range of care planning issues.
“There’s a mix of questions for four different age ranges with the web characters speaking to them out loud to help overcome any reading difficulties some children may have,” Mrs McSweeney said.
She said a pilot program had been conducted in Northam, Narrogin and Joondalup and it would now be rolled out State-wide.
“The program includes game breaks along the way to maintain a child’s interest in the task,” the Minister said.
She said the program collected feedback on the themes and issues children raised, helping the Department to provide more relevant resources and improved services to children in care.
6 September, 2011
New land rules for
property protection
Improved measures to minimise the risk of registering fraudulent property transactions in Western Australia are to be introduced by the State Government agency Landgate.
According to the Minister for Lands, Brendon Grylls, one of the new safeguarding options will be for overseas property owners to put a caveat over their property.
Mr Grylls said this could provide greater peace of mind to absentee owners.
“Any overseas property owner concerned about the possibility of identity theft is able to lodge a new caveat over their property which prevents unlawful change of ownership,” Mr Grylls said.
He said the only way to remove the caveat would be for the owners to attend in person at the Landgate Midland office and identify themselves to the satisfaction of the registrar.
He said the minimum requirement for the identification would be the 100 point check.
Mr Grylls said that among other processes introduced to protect property owners was a requirement for all transactions to be subject to extra scrutiny by Landgate with two senior officers checking them independently.
“A senior examiner will confirm evidence of a 100-point check,” Mr Grylls said. “This stage of the process will also involve the examiner confirming the validity of the witness.”
He said the Registrar of Titles would also need to be satisfied with documents witnessed overseas by an Australian Consular Official and Landgate would confirm the witnessing directly with the consular office.
“This means the Registrar will require evidence that a 100 point identity check has been carried out by the conveyancer and it must accompany the transfer documents,” Mr Grylls said.
“If confirmation isn’t provided, a stop will be put on the transaction.”
He said that over 61,000 transfers had been registered since 1 September 2010.
“These will be reviewed,” he said.
“So far, 34 per cent have gone through the first stage of the review process.”
Mr Grylls said Landgate was also considering extending its TitleWatch service to include an early email alert to advise subscribers of any potential land transaction on their nominated land titles.
“What is most significant about this service is that notification will take place prior to settlement, and before the exchange of funds and issue of title,” the Minister said.
“While no-one can completely eliminate fraud, Landgate is working with industry to minimise the likelihood of further occurrences.
“They are not common given the high number of property transactions that take place.”
Mr Grylls said he was confident in the strength and integrity of the Western Australian Torrens Land Titling System.
He said the community could be too.
6 September, 2011
WorkSafe switches
to switchboards
An inspection program of safety standards of switchboard and switchroom manufacturers is to be undertaken by WorkSafe
The inspections will focus on raising awareness of the safety risks and ensuring that employers have the information required to comply with the laws.
Director of WorkSafe, Joe Attard said this was the latest in a series of proactive inspection programs focusing on specific industries.
Stakeholders in the industry – the National Electrical Switchboard Builders Association, the National Electrical and Communications Association, Unions WA and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry had been informed of the campaign.
Employers would also be made aware of the fact that inspectors would be conducting visits via a mail-out containing relevant occupational safety and health information and checklists.
Inspectors would be concentrating on the priority areas of machinery guarding, hazardous substances, manual handling, electricity, falls from height and slips, trips and falls, and would be looking at a wide range of businesses, from large employers to small operators in the industrial and commercial sectors.
“Like all WorkSafe’s proactive inspection programs, this one aims to raise awareness and provide information, but inspectors will take enforcement action if necessary,” Mr Attard said.
Further information on workplace safety and health can be obtained by telephoning WorkSafe on 9327 8777 or from the website at this PS News link.
6 September, 2011
Warranty warning to
guarantee service
Western Australian retailers who are referring customers with warranty claims to the manufacturer when it is their responsibility under consumer law, have come to the notice of Consumer Protection.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection, Anne Driscoll said there had been a high number of calls to the Department in recent months from consumers complaining that some retailers were not taking responsibility when faulty goods were returned.
“While manufacturers have obligations to ensure their goods are not faulty, the sales contract is between the retailer and their customer,” Ms Driscoll said.
“Retailers should not be directing customers with a warranty claim to the manufacturer direct; it is their clear responsibility to offer a remedy in the form of a replacement or refund if there is a major fault and repair if it is a minor fault.”
She said while the retail market was currently fairly tight, some retailers seemed to be more interested in securing sales rather than solving problems.
“It is important that traders honour their legal obligations and further develop their customer relations at a time when repeat business is probably even more important,” she said.
Ms Driscoll said that under the Australian Consumer Law all goods sold in Australia must be of acceptable quality, safe, durable, free from defects and fit for purpose.
“These consumer guarantees apply without the consumer paying any extra money for ‘extended warranties’ which are being sold in some cases as a way for the retailer to manage faulty products,” the Commissioner said.
“The guarantees under the Australian Consumer Law apply to all products acquired by consumers and are in addition to any written guarantee that may be issued by the manufacturer.
“Consumers need to understand that their legal rights will often provide a remedy that is easier and more appropriate to access than the hoops some traders are asking consumers to jump through.”
6 September, 2011
New grains facility
is kernel of idea
The State Government and the Grains Research Development Corporation (GRDC) have come to an agreement to build a new Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre (AEGIC) in Perth.
The Government will contribute $30 million to build the facility with the Department of Agriculture and Food and GRDC each contributing $20 million over five years to research and development programs.
Other research organisations, including the CSIRO, have agreed in principle to contribute an additional $15 million over five years, taking total investment in the project to $85 million so far.
Minister for Agriculture and Food, Terry Redman said the AEGIC would be built adjacent to the Department’s new headquarters in South Perth, with research and development projects due to start next year.
He said it would include state-of-the-art laboratories, automated and air-conditioned glass houses, controlled environment plant growth rooms and irrigated field plots.
He said the Centre would also act as a research and business think-tank, with programs in economic analysis, strategic market intelligence, grain quality, bio-security and grain processing technology.
Mr Redman said AEGIC would be a vibrant hub of science, technology and innovation focused on increasing the competitiveness of the Australian grains industry.
“Scientists, economists and industry experts from around the world will come to Perth to share their knowledge and expertise with the aim of developing new varieties, new technologies and new ideas for Australian farmers,” Mr Redman said.
The GRDC is a Commonwealth statutory corporation funded by grower levies to invest in grains research and development.
6 September, 2011
DAFWA sinks teeth
into new feedlots
Approvals for the development of new feedlots have been streamlined largely through the work of the Department of Agriculture and Food (DAFWA).
Approval times have been reduced from 18 months to nine weeks on average.
Project Coordinator for Beef Feedlot at the Department, Claire Coffey said environmental safeguards had become increasingly complex though the National Beef Cattle Feedlot Environmental Code of Practice.
“Working with the industry regulator, the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC), the Department has streamlined the approval process for new feedlots, saving time, stress and cost,” Ms Coffey said.
She said DAFWA had been working with 13 feedlot projects from Geraldton to Esperance and licence applications had had a 100 per cent success rate due to the Department’s expertise and knowledge in managing the impacts of pollutions such as odour and waste water, and the intricacies of WA’s regulatory processes.
Ms Coffey said recent dry seasons were encouraging more of the cattle industry to look at lot feeding instead of traditional grass finishing. This was helping to provide consistent supplies of quality meat for consumers.
She said the Beef Feedlot Environmental Management Working Group, comprising DEC, DAFWA and the WA Lot Feeders Association was making sure that proposed new national guidelines were practical and workable.
“Because this is a new field, local private sector consultants were not available, hence the Department’s move to help,” Ms Coffey said.
“We first identified the industry gap in 2009 and have worked with DEC to create a streamlined and consistent works approval process while assisting industry with applications to expand or build new feedlots.
“We are now actively seeking private sector consultants who can provide the service,” she said.
6 September, 2011
Women winning
statistics race
Figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveal that Australian women are still living longer than men, but that men are closing the gap.
According to the ABS data, over the past 10 years life expectancy at birth had increased at a greater rate for men (by 3 years) than for women (by 2 years) but women continued to have a higher life expectancy at birth (now 84 years) than men (79 years).
Gender Indicators, Australia, looked at the differences between males and females in the main areas of wellbeing such as economic security, education, work and family balance, health and safety and justice.
It found women had increased their participation in the labour force, while it had remained relatively stable for men.
However, it also found on average women earned 11 per cent less than men per hour.
According to the figures, men and women also differed in how they spent their working time; while they all spent a similar amount of time working, men spent nearly twice as long on employment related activities.
Alternatively, women spent almost double the amount of time on unpaid work such as domestic activities, child-care and voluntary work.
The publication revealed that in 2010, more women aged 18-24 years (31%) than men (23%) were studying towards a qualification at Bachelor’s degree or above.
Overall, men were more likely than women to have poor health risk factors, such as being overweight or obese and consuming alcohol at risky levels.
Women however were more likely than men to report high or very high levels of psychological stress.
The new figures are available in the first issue of Gender Indicators, Australia, a new six-monthly publication that presents data to reflect gender roles and monitor the changes that occur over time.
The full issue can be accessed at this PS News link.
6 September, 2011
Program gets parents
back to school
Mullewa District High School has begun a program aimed at increasing parental and community involvement in school activities.
The Mullewa Passport Program aims to improve attendance and academic outcomes for students.
Minister for Education, Liz Constable said the program will reward students and their families who get involved with the school.
“By helping out in the canteen, running reading sessions, meeting with the leadership team, attending assembly and making sure their children go to school, parents can gain points for their child’s ‘passport’,” Dr Constable said.
“Students can then trade in the points for books, uniforms, stationery, canteen vouchers, sports equipment and calculators.
“It is a fantastic incentive for parents and students to get more involved in the school and education.”
Mullewa Principal, Nicki Patterson said the local community, which included police, youth workers, community health workers and Local Government representatives, strongly supported the program.
“This initiative builds on the relationships we already have in place and creates opportunities for new partnerships to be formed with the community,” Ms Patterson said.
“Since the program began last week, we have already awarded points for students attending school and for parents coming to parent-teacher forums.”
She thanked the Department for getting the program into the school, and the former Shire of Mullewa and Brookfield Rail for contributing funding.
6 September, 2011
Commonwealth floats
marine protection
The Federal Government has released draft marine bio-regional plans for proposed marine reserves networks aimed at protecting Australia’s north and north-west marine environment.
The plans and networks will now be open for three months of community feedback before they are finalised under national environmental law.
The proposed network for the north covers global refuges for turtles, dugongs and sawfish while the north-west is vital to the survival of many marine species facing population decline.
Federal Minister for the Environment, Tony Burke said that under the proposed marine reserve network there would be three zones including Marine National Park zones to provide the highest level of protection and limit activities; Multiple Use zones which would protect and maintain the conservation values of the area while allowing sustainable economic use; and Special Purpose zones which would allow some activities not allowed in other zones.
Mr Burke said the proposed networks of marine reserves were in Commonwealth waters which start 5.5 kilometres off the coast.
The proposed reserves in the north-west region cover an area of 377, 296 square kilometres and those in the north cover 121,723 square kilometres.
According to the Minister, the north region extends from the Northern Territory-Western Australian border to the Gulf of Carpentaria, Arafura Sea and the Timor Sea and the north-west region extends from Kalbarri, south of Shark Bay to the Western Australian - Northern Territory border.
“If these areas of biodiversity had been on land we would have protected them years ago,” Mr Burke said.
“It is time for the protection of our oceans to start catching up.”
He said the draft bio-regional plans and proposed marine reserves networks were developed with environment groups, the fishing industry, recreational fishing groups and other marine users.
“Now there will be a further opportunity for communities to have their say in this important process and I encourage people to get involved,” he said.
“We extended the 60-day consultation period to 90 days to ensure people have every opportunity to provide feedback.”
Officers from the federal Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water Population and Communities will be visiting coastal centres throughout the north and north-west regions in the coming weeks to hold information sessions and meet representatives of various industries and stakeholder groups.
Consultation closes on 28 November.
6 September, 2011
Stats clear the air
on lung cancer
A recent report from the WA Cancer Registry has found that lung cancer remains the most common cause of cancer-related death in men and women under 75 years of age.
However, skin cancer is still a significant risk for people aged 15 to 39.
The report Cancer Incidence and Mortality in Western Australia, 2009 says there were 10,805 new cases of cancer recorded in WA in that year.
Author of the report, Tim Threlfall said of these, 6,291 or 58 per cent, occurred in males and 4,514 or 42 per cent in females.
“In 2009, the most common cancers in males were prostate and colorectal cancers, melanomas and lung cancer; while breast cancer was the most common cancer for women,”
Dr Threlfall said.
He said breast cancer rates for women had decreased slightly since previous years, but more women were now being diagnosed with lung cancer.
“The number of women with lung cancer is increasing by an average of four per cent each year,” he said.
“In 2009, lung cancer was the most common cause of cancer-related death for males and females, killing one in 32 males and one in 53 females before age 75.”
Dr Threlfall said there were a total of 3,862 deaths due to cancer in 2009 – 2,158 males and 1,704 females.
All-cancers mortality rates for 2009 were 117 deaths per 100,000 males, which were similar to 2008 figures, and 84 per 100,000 females – a slight increase from 2008.
The report is compiled annually by the Western Australian Cancer Registry and provides population-based cancer data for use in the planning of health care services and the support of cancer-related research.
The report is available online at this PS News link.
6 September, 2011
TomorrowFund catches
up with the present
The TomorrowFund has reached its designated target after receiving pledges totalling $25 million.
The Fund was launched in 2008 with the aim of securing money to buy contemporary works for the WA art collection.
Under an agreement with the Government, the Art Gallery of Western Australia will now receive a promised $5 million of funding.
Minister for Culture and the Arts, John Day congratulated the gallery on achieving its target with the receipt of a donation, valued at more than $3 million, from Andrew and Nicola Forrest.
“It is the last of many major pledges from Western Australia’s leading companies and community figures, including the initial $1 million pledges from BHP Billiton, National Australia Bank, Wesfarmers and Woodside,” Mr Day said.”
“The success of the TomorrowFund reflects an outstanding response from WA’s corporate and private sector to the Art Gallery of Western Australia’s challenge to create an arts legacy for future generations of Western Australians.”
The Minister said that in the past 18 months the TomorrowFund had enabled the gallery to acquire 148 works of contemporary art, including 95 works by Western Australian artists, 49 works by artists from other parts of Australia and four works from overseas.
Included were works by recognised artists such as Dale Frank, Fiona Foley, Brendan van Hek, Sally Gabori and Jesper Just.
6 September, 2011
Clover scientists
turn new leaf
A new subterranean clover variety with increased resistance to red-legged earth mite has been developed.
Minister for Agriculture and Food, Terry Redman said the new variety, Narrikup, was bred by the Department of Agriculture and Food.
“It is very vigorous and productive, with better resistance to red legged earth mites - the major pest of subterranean clover,” Mr Redman said.
“Narrikup also has resistance to both known races of clover scorch disease.”
He said the new variety was expected to increase the productivity of both livestock and grains industries across southern Australia, and would reduce the reliance on insecticides.
“The last thorough estimate showed red-legged earth mites were causing losses of $228 million Australia-wide for subterranean clover-based pastures,” he said.
“WA accounted for about one third of the national losses, or about $70 million annually.”
He said a new five-year joint venture between the Department of Agriculture and Food and Seed Force Pty Ltd would provide investment to develop new sub-clover legumes and produce and market seed. Seed would be sold under Plant Breeders Rights protection.
“This joint venture also aims to bring new and innovative sub-clover legume traits to the national and international agricultural market for the ongoing benefit of the agricultural industry in Western Australia and elsewhere,” Mr Redman said.
The Minister said a public expression of interest for investment into the Department’s subterranean clover breeding was conducted last year.
“Seed Force Pty Ltd was the successful applicant and the joint venture agreement has now been signed,” he said.
“The Department is a world leader in the development of pasture cultivars.
“This new partnership with Seed Force combines its technical skills with the marketing and production skills of a commercial operator which would have significant benefits across the sector.”
6 September, 2011
Stephenson House named
A major new office complex for State Government employees in the Perth CBD is to be named Gordon Stephenson House.
Professor Stephenson was one of Western Australia’s most eminent architects and planners.
Gordon Stephenson House at 140 William Street is to be home to around 2,500 PS staff from 10 agencies including the Small Business Development Corporation and the departments of Planning; Transport; Local Government; Regional Development and Lands; Communities; Culture and the Arts; Treasury; and Finance.
Call for Council candidates
West Australians interested in standing as candidates in the upcoming Local Government elections have been urged to do so by the Minister for Local Government, John Castrilli.
Mr Castrilli encouraged younger people and those from indigenous or multicultural backgrounds to consider running as the chance only came around every two years.
He said the importance of the role of Mayor, President or Councillor could never be underestimated.
Interested and eligible people should submit their nomination to their local Returning Officer before 4pm on 8 September to run for Council.
Election day is 15 October 2011.
Weed guru honoured
The Great Southern Development Commission (GSDC) has honoured the work of Department of Agriculture and Food weeds expert, Research Officer John Moore.
Mr Moore was awarded the Commission’s Medal for Excellence in Natural Resource Management.
During his 30-year career, Mr Moore has written 144 publications including seven books, maintained a weed control website and delivered many courses and field days.
His award consisted of a sterling silver medal and $10,000 in prize money for work-related travel, study or research.
Desalination Centre opened
Australia’s first dedicated Desalination Discovery Centre and Desalination Research Facility has been opened at Rockingham.
The National Centre of Excellence in Desalination Australia (NCEDA) will be supported by $3 million funding over three years from the State Government.
Drought report out
The report on a review into the State’s ‘Drought Pilot’ has been released.
The joint State and Federal project was aimed at supporting farmers, their families and rural communities in preparing for future challenges, rather than waiting until they were in crisis to offer assistance.
The independent review panel considered the capacity of the pilot measures to improve farmers’ ability to adapt and manage farm risks; support sustainable management of natural resources; and deliver more effective and equitable social support.
The Minister for Agriculture and Food, Terry Redman, will now discuss the findings of the review with other State, Territory and national Ministers.
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