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SearchArchives for August 2009
28 August, 2009
PS challenged to
meet challenges
Meeting the challenge of delivering public services during the economic downturn was the subject of a recent forum conducted jointly by the Public Sector Performance Commission and the Institute of Public Administration Australia.
Targetted at members of the SA Executive Service, the forum was hosted by the Chief Executive of the PSPC, Lance Worrall and featured addresses by the Chief Executive of the Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Chris Eccles and the Minister assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, Jay Weatherill.
Both Mr Weatherill and Mr Eccles saw the current financial crisis as creating problems for the delivery of public services, but also offering opportunities for improved efficiencies and better outcomes..
“The global financial crisis has had a huge impact on Government,” Mr Weatherill said.
“However, we should not only see the GFC as a problem, but also an opportunity.”
He described the crisis as the “greatest market failure in history” which had placed “great expectations” on Government.
“It’s perhaps ironic that the community expects more of Government in difficult economic times - when we have less resources at our disposal.”
He said however this expectation offered the community – and the Public Service – the chance to talk about the importance of Government and how to improve it.
Mr Weatherill defended recent cuts to the PS and the new PS Bill, saying size was no measure of performance in the public sector.
“While this reduction will undoubtedly have an impact,” he said, “I don’t think that it will drive the quality of the services that we provide.”
“Key to our performance - in difficult times and good - is our productivity.”
Mr Eccles drew on a recent speech by the Secretary of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet that discussed the broad public sector challenges of providing quality policy advice, focussing on service delivery, engaging citizens in programs and policies and attracting the best people to the PS.
“To this list I would add as a key area for development and reform the means of measuring organisational performance and driving continuous improvement in the public sector,” Mr Eccles said.
“It has always been important to ensure we have a mechanism that tells us when we are doing well, need to adjust our approach or have not achieved our goals.”
He said a recent survey conducted by the PSPC found that while many business units had such measurement mechanisms in place, they lacked consistency and were fragmented.
“For example, of the 88 leadership development activities conducted by 33 agencies only eight were shared in common.”
He said this degree of diversity could be counter-productive when planning whole-of-Government responses.
Mr Eccles said a single high performance framework was central to providing greater consistency across Government Departments and Agencies for continuous improvement.
Both Mr Weatherill and Mr Eccles believed the Public Service was capable of meeting the challenges of the financial downturn.
“It’s a difficult time I know, but also an exciting time,” Mr Weatherill said.
“It is also imperative to ensure that where Government is operating, it is doing so productively,” Mr Eccles said.
The text of both speeches can be accessed from the South Australian Executive Service website: www.saes.sa.gov.au
28 August, 2009
Minister cashes in
on wage increase
A decision by the SA Industrial Relations Commission to increase the minimum wage by $14 a week has been welcomed by the Minister for Industrial Relations Minister, Paul Caica.
The decision will see full time adult workers receiving at least $560.65 per week with apprentices and juniors having their rates adjusted proportionately, effective from 1 October 2009.
The Commission described the raise as “sustainable and appropriate”.
Mr Caica said the payrise was welcome news for low-income South Australians in the State IR system and their families.
“This will be welcome relief for these families to help pay their bills and meet their commitments,” he said.
He said SafeWork SA would be informing employers of the decision and helping them to take the necessary steps to ensure they paid the correct rates.
“I’m confident that employers will have sufficient time to prepare for the moderate adjustment at the beginning of October.”
According to Mr Caica, workers who were not covered by an Award or enterprise collective agreement would also receive $560.65 per week, under the State Minimum Wage.
State Award wages at rates higher than the minimum will also receive the rise.
28 August, 2009
Cemetery on fire
in tourism list
Centennial Park Cemetery has achieved international tourism acclaim by being featured in a newspaper article on Adelaide’s top tourist attractions.
The article appeared in the Los Angeles Times and ranked Adelaide as 14th in a list of the world’s most affordable cities.
Chief Executive Officer of Centennial Park, Bryan Elliott said the Park had worked hard to challenge the stereotypes surrounding the cemetery industry and he was pleased with the tourism recognition.
“Many people think of cemeteries as dark, dreary and depressing places, but at
Centennial Park we have bright and colourful gardens and extensive landscaping
with water features, trees and flowering plants,” Mr Elliot said.
He said Centennial Park prides itself on creating a special place where South Australians can remember and celebrate the lives of loved ones.
“We also have a focus on engaging and involving our community by welcoming them
to our grounds,” he said.
“We are open to the public 24 hours a day and will hold our annual open day on
Sunday 25 October to shed light on some of the mystery that surrounds our
industry.”
He said Centennial Park hosted a wedding in its gardens earlier this year, the bride choosing the venue or her wedding ceremony because, in her words it was “full of life”.
“This well and truly shatters the traditional notion of cemeteries,” Mr Elliott said.
He said Centennial Park’s focus on environmental sustainability was also in contrast to stereotypes.
“This reinforces Centennial Park’s commitment to evolving and maintaining our focus on life beyond death so that we remain relevant to and valued by our community.”
28 August, 2009
Science plan has
the right formula
A progress report on a 10-year plan for developing Science, Technology and Innovation opportunities has been released by the Minister for Science and the Information Economy, Michael O’Brien.
Prepared at the half-way mark of the plan, the STI10 Progress Report reveals that Government investment of a little over $200 million since 2004 had returned more than $1 billion in research projects and infrastructure.
“Realising our potential in science and technology continues to play an important role in developing a strong economy, promoting business investment and expanding new job opportunities for South Australians,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The vision expressed in this report is all about South Australia aspiring to lead with self confidence, while celebrating creativity and innovation.”
He said among the positive outcomes for the State have been the establishment of 33 Cooperative Research Centres (CRC’s) out of a national total of 58; an increase in the share of Commonwealth research funding from $90.7 million in 2005 to $113 million in 2007; earnings by universities up from $45.9 million in 2005 to $55.4 million in 2006; and a strong upward trend in venture capital increasing 75 per cent in the past year alone.
Mr O’Brien said for the plan to continue its success, it needed an ongoing commitment to three key strategies - building capability and infrastructure; maintaining momentum through collaboration; and developing people and communities.
“The STI10 Progress Report strongly advocates ongoing and continued support and promotion for science, technology and innovation and is also a statement of public accountability five years after the initial launch,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The report outlines and updates the strategies that have evolved from this vision, which are now playing an increasingly important role in enabling South Australia to meet our economic, social and environmental challenges.
“There’s much more that we can achieve for our State by working together in these crucial areas of science, innovation and new technology,” Mr O’Brien said.
He said the STI10 Progress Report can be accessed atwww.innovation.sa.gov.au/publications
28 August, 2009
Councils shine light
on public lighting
Local Councils have come together in Adelaide to look at ways they can reduce the costs of public lighting and make it more environmentally friendly.
Hosted by the Local Government Association, the sustainable public lighting forum arose from an agreement by Councils to become more energy-aware.
President of the LGA, Mayor Felicity-ann Lewis said installing more efficient public lighting was one of the criteria the Councils had agreed to in the Local Government Climate Change Sector Agreement signed by the Premier and the LGA.
“The LGA, in conjunction with Local Government Corporate Services, is constantly on the lookout for partnership possibilities for our member Councils which will improve cost efficiencies and bring best possible services to our communities," Mayor Lewis said.
"Many people are not aware that, while almost 100 percent of the infrastructure belongs to ETSA Utilities, their Councils' pick up the bill for public street lighting.”
She said South Australian Councils spent between $75,000 and $1.2 million each year on the service.
“She said as well as the cost, public lighting also contributed between 15 and 70 per cent of a Council’s greenhouse gas emissions, depending on the Council’s size.
"Local Government is dedicated to reducing our environmental impact and also making financial savings," Mayor Lewis said.
She said the LGA had engaged consulting engineers to summarise the opportunities for increased energy efficiency in public lighting in South Australia and the forum had been called to consider the engineers’ recommendations.
“The implementation of these initiatives will ensure South Australia is on the forefront of public lighting sustainability leading into the future.”
She said the forum would also draft a procedure for use in negotiations with ETSA Utilities for the introduction of new energy technologies in public lighting such as the replacement of currently used old-style bulbs with newer lamp types and control systems.
“Local Government in SA continues to operate at the cutting edge of technological advances for the best environmental and financial outcomes for our communities," Mayor Lewis said.
28 August, 2009
Premier digs in for
mine information
The State Government’s response to BHP-Billiton’s draft Olympic Dam Environmental Arial Statement has called for further investigations into a several important issues.
Premier Mike Rann said as the Olympic Dam project was the biggest the State had ever seen it would be “extraordinary if we did not find issues that we wanted to be further investigated.”
Mr Rann said the final whole-of-Government submission had been sent to the company and was a rigorous examination of the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for what would become the world’s largest mine.
“4,000 submissions were received by the deadline and those views have now been considered in the context of the Government’s own review into the EIS,” he said.
“Our review to date has considered issues not only at the site of the mine and its immediate surrounds, but across the region and the whole State.”
Mr Rann said public submissions closed earlier this month but the Government would take further time to consider issues raised during the final weeks before submitting its final draft.
He said the major areas of concern being raised by the Government included inadequate approaches to desalination; the need for further examination of process waste; further investigation into groundwater supply; the need to revise the impact of pollution on air quality; the impact on local houses and transport from the facility; concerns surrounding radiation; and greenhouse gas emissions.
Mr Rann said he believed all the issues raised in the Government’s submission could and would be addressed by BHP-Billiton.
“Olympic Dam will provide long term economic and social benefits for the region and the whole of South Australia for decades to come, but we have to make sure that the legacy is prosperity for the State, not long term environmental damage.”
BHP-Billiton is expected to prepare a revised EIS responding to the 4,000 public submissions early next year. A final Government decision on Olympic Dam is expected in mid 2010.
28 August, 2009
Women liberate
harassment report
The Federal Government’s Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency has released its 2009 Survey, revealing low levels of training on sex-based harassment in Australian organisations.
The survey found while almost all organisations had formal procedures to deal with sex-based harassment, just over half offered training to staff (59.1 per cent) or managers (55.4 per cent).
Acting Director of EOWA, Mairi Steele saidorganisations on the 2009 EOWA Employer of Choice for Women citation list have an average pay gap of 10.9 per cent, which is lower than the overall industry gap.
Figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics have shown the gender pay gap to be 17.5 per cent.
The ABS data shows the widest gap is in the finance and insurance industry, at 30.4 per cent and the smallest is in Government administration and Defence (7.1 per cent).
Ms Steele said Macquarie University researcher, Ian Watson estimated around 70 per cent of the gender pay gap was due to discrimination rather than demographic and labour market variables.
“Addressing pay discrimination is fundamental to achieving equality at work,” she said.
“However from EOWA’s experience it’s clear that the complexities of the problem are not yet fully understood by Australian business.”
Ms Steele said a gender pay audit was an effective way for organisations to uncover the gender pay gap and begin to address it.
“The fact that women are concentrated into certain occupations and in low paying positions are key causes of the gap and not excuses for it,” she said.
Ms Steele urged businesses to access the free Pay Equity Audit Tool - which can help identify pay gaps, possible causes and solutions.
The EOWA Survey on Paid Maternity Leave, Sex-based Harassment Initiatives and the Gender Pay Gap found 37 per cent of all people responsible for submitting a report to EOWA believed a gender pay gap existed in their organisation and that less than half conducted gender pay equity analyses.
Ms Steele said the survey also found over half of organisations (50.8 per cent) reporting to EOWA offer paid maternity leave, up from 48.9 per cent the previous year.
EOWA is to participate in the Equal Pay Day campaign on 1 September this year to help businesses butter understand the causes of pay inequity.
The EOWA Survey was based on the responses of more than 2,300 organisations that provided their annual equal opportunity compliance reports to the Agency in 2008.
To access the survey or Pay Equity Audit Tool, visitwww.eowa.gov.au.
28 August, 2009
WOMADelaide to dance
to longer tune
WOMADelaide 2010 is to run an extra day.
Lengthened to four days to mark the 50th anniversary of the Adelaide Festival, the world music and dance festival will continue to the Monday with extra programming created to add to the festival’s depth.
Announced in London by Premier Mike Rann after a meeting with the new UK-based Executive Director of Womad, Mike Large, the extension is being highlighted as another reason for people to go to the Adelaide Festival.
“After record advance ticket sales in 2009, Womad was keen to create a special event for this 50th Adelaide Festival and to the festival fans for their years of incredible and enthusiastic support,” Mr Rann said.
“Festival goers will now have an extra day to enjoy the familiar balance of sounds, sights and space that everyone loves about WOMADelaide.”
He said the event usually attracted about 70,000 people over its three days with about 10,000 coming from interstate or overseas.
“Over the three days, Womadelaide generates about $6 million in economic benefit to the State and nearly 100 jobs,” Mr Rann said.
Director of WOMADelaide Ian Scobie said the extra day would be “quite special” to mark the 50th anniversary “appropriately.”
He said the first round of WOMADelaide 2010 artists would be announced at the launch of the Adelaide Festival program on 22 October with more announcements to follow.
Tickets are on sale and more information is available fromwww.womadelaide.com.au.
28 August, 2009
OCBA gets handle
on show bags
Product safety inspectors from the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs (OCBA) have been busy checking the contents of show bags in the lead-up to the 2009 Royal Adelaide Show.
The inspectors have checked more than 900 items in 208 show bags to ensure that any potentially dangerous items are removed or problems rectified before the show bags go on sale between 4 and 12 September.
Only two items failed the inspector’s checks this year, a novelty tattoo and a toy stroller.
Acting Minister for Consumer Affairs, Jay Weatherill said that in all the years the checks had been carried out this year’s result was the most pleasing by far.
“I am pleased that the show bag suppliers have taken such a responsible approach to selecting items to include in their bags this year,” Mr Weatherill said.
“This shows that the annual checks are effective and that suppliers are taking the product safety message very seriously.”
Following inspection the faults were rectified before the items were approved for inclusion in show bags.
“OCBA has worked with the suppliers to ensure that these steps were taken prior to the bags going on sale,” Mr Weatherill said.
“I also remind parents that it is important to buy show bags and novelty items that are suitable for the age of their children, and that items should be used correctly to avoid unnecessary injuries.”
He said OCBA’s product safety inspectors would continue checks during the show to make sure toys and novelty items offered for sale at stalls or as prizes at Sideshow Alley were safe.
“OCBA will also be checking that traders comply with fair trading laws, particularly with regard to refund and warranty statements, and that goods sold by weight or measure are spot-on,” Mr Weatherill said.
28 August, 2009
SA energy gets
green light
A plan to establish South Australia as a green energy hub for Australia’s Eastern seaboard has been unveiled by Premier, Mike Rann.
Mr Rann said South Australia easily led the nation in renewable energy investment, but he believed there was massive scope for renewable energy to be the next big industry alongside defence and mining.
“We want to create greater capacity in the State’s electricity grid to unlock billions of dollars in green energy investment,” Mr Rann said.
“For a State with just eight per cent of the nation’s population, we have done incredibly well in attracting 56 per cent of the nation’s grid-connected wind power, about 30 per cent of its solar power and more than 90 per cent of its geothermal developments.”
He said South Australia had now set a new target of 33 per cent of South Australia’s power generation coming from renewable energy by 2020 – “which is bold, even in international terms.”
“Prime Minister Kevin Rudd says he wants Australia to be generating 20 per cent of power from renewable sources by 2020,” Mr Rann said.
“We will smash that target years ahead of time.”
He announced a $1 million contribution to a feasibility study into increasing the State’s electricity transmission capacity.
He said the feasibility study by a consortium would look at methods to improve and significantly augment capacity to transmit electricity across the grid, particularly across the Eyre Peninsula.
“We intend to remain a leader in green energy and this new feasibility study will help us ensure that we do,” he said.
“South Australia is one of the windiest and sunniest places in Australia – so it’s a prime target for renewable energy investors.
“We need to make sure those investors can hook into the best infrastructure they can to transmit that clean, green energy across the nation.”
28 August, 2009
Research guide
is fact-finder
A new web-based directory of research institutions in South Australia has been launched by the Minister for Science and the Information Economy, Michael O’Brien.
Containing a comprehensive list of more than 160 SA research institutions, the Research Capability Directory will be used to increase awareness of the State’s research expertise.
According to Mr O’Brien, the Government recognised that research and development was a major driver of economic growth and international competitiveness and the new directory provided an overview of the State’s major research infrastructure.
“Research underpins the development and sustainability of key South Australian industries, such as health, agriculture, environment, defence and advanced manufacturing,” Mr O’Brien said.
He said the Directory was compiled after wide consultations with universities, Government Agencies and research and development institutions and would complement similar industry capability databases such as those developed by the Defence Teaming Centre and the SA Centre for Innovation.
The Directory was launched at the same time 10 of South Australia’s best young scientists were recognised for their excellence in the 2009 Young Tall Poppy Science Awards.
Mr O’Brien and the Governor, Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce, announced the winners as part of this year’s National Science Week activities.
They were Drs Claudine Bonder, Joanne Bowen, Kathryn Burdon, Travis Elsdon, Matthew Haren, Hugh Harris, Karen Murphy, Nam Nguyen, Alice Rumbold, and Christopher Sumby.
“These young scientists are not only contributing to our State’s innovation and well-being, but they are also excellent role models for the next generation of scientists and I’m sure we will continue to hear more about these names in years to come,” Mr O’Brien said.
He said the Young Tall Poppies were success stories and encouraged more young South Australians to study science and maths at school.
28 August, 2009
Landfill managers to
be waste watchers
The Environmental Protection Authority is to enforce strict conditions on the dumping of low-level contaminated waste at the expanded Inkerman landfill, north of Adelaide.
Minister for Urban Development and Planning, Paul Holloway said the expansion had been approved through the major development assessment process.
Mr Holloway said the EPA’s 22 conditions would include the use of specially designed cells and management procedures to safeguard against dust emissions and leaching into the groundwater.
He said the approval followed publication of an Environmental Arial Statement, and an extensive community consultation process, which attracted three submissions from the public and eight from government.
“Much of the opposition to the expansion of the landfill to include the disposal of low level contaminated waste centred on fears emissions from the facility could affect nearby residents and primary producers,” he said.
“However, advice to the Government is that the use of a double liner and leachate detection and collection system and modified cells for disposing of the waste at the Inkerman landfill will provide acceptable safeguards against pollution.”
He said the expansion provides a number of benefits to the general community.
“Disposing of low-level contaminated waste at a landfill reduces the need for on-site remediation of land within metropolitan Adelaide, which would pose a greater risk of adverse affects,” he said.
“The conditions imposed on the expansion of the Inkerman facilities address a range of issues such as groundwater, landfill gas, buffers and landscaping, noise and dust, building rules, heritage and waste.”
28 August, 2009
Upgraded Belair
comes on line
The multi-million dollar upgrade of the Belair railway line has been delivered on time and on budget with train services now resuming.
Minister for Transport, Patrick Conlon said the project had gone extremely well.
“What was a very complex project has been completed in just four months,” Mr Conlon said.
He said it was part of the Government’s program to deliver a new era for public transport in South Australia.
He said the 15 kilometres of new track laid would form part of the Government’s $2 billion, decade-long revitalisation of Adelaide’s public transport system.
“Before the year is out work will commence on the upgrade of the Outer Harbor and Noarlunga lines while pre-construction activities have begun to extend the rail network to Seaford,” Mr Conlon said.
He said commuters could also look forward to seeing upgraded stations at Blackwood, Coromandel and Eden Hills.
He thanked the local community and Belair rail passengers who were affected during the construction period and thanked them for their patience.
“The community has been fantastic and will reap the benefits of this project for a long time to come.”
He said the renewal of the Belair line would deliver upgraded track formation; improved stormwater drainage; improvements to track geometry and alignment; and new long-life, gauge convertible concrete sleepers.
According to Mr Conlon, the Belair project has helped create local jobs with over 170 people working on the construction site, 80 per cent of whom are Adelaide based sub-contractors and labourers.
28 August, 2009
Consumer protection
gets new use-by date
Changes to implementation plans for the National Consumer Credit Protection Reform Package have seen some proposal brought forward for early adoption and others deferred until later.
Federal Minister for Financial Services and Corporate Law, Chris Bowen said responsible lending conduct laws for brokers and some lenders would now be introduced in January 2010 - one year earlier than previously proposed.
Mr Bowen said bringing forward the responsible lending conduct laws would ensure consumers were immediately protected from predatory and irresponsible lending.
“While it is recognised that many brokers and lenders already meet these requirements through industry codes and standards, it will set a national standard for responsible lending and prohibit poor credit practices at an earlier stage,” Mr Bowen said.
“It will also allow consumers to access remedies for irresponsible lending sooner.”
He said an advantage of the timetable reform was there would be no gap in consumer protection between the transition from State and credit regimes to the new national model.
He said new National Credit Code requirements for credit providers, such as the introduction of debit default notices, amendments to business purpose declarations and new notices in response to application for hardship variations and postponements, would be delayed from 1 January 2010 to 1 July 2010.
Mr Bowen said the extension would give credit providers time to make the changes necessary to operate in the new regulatory environment.
“In transitioning the State and Territory Uniform Consumer Credit Code into the new National Credit Code, substantial enhancements have been included,” he said.
“These enhancements will require lenders to change important paper and IT based disclosure and consumer information related documents.”
The responsible lending conduct requirements will commence for the remaining lenders (Authorised Deposit-taking Institutions (ADIs) and Registered Finance Corporations (RFCs)) from 1 January 2011.
This will allow them sufficient time to prepare for compliance with the new regime and ensure a smooth transition for the industry.
All remaining responsible lending requirements (such as disclosure of fees and commissions) will commence on 1 January 2011.
“It is crucial that the Government provide businesses whose lending and credit related activities rely upon extensive and complex business processes and IT systems with enough time to be ready to comply with the new regime,” Mr Bowen said.
“This revised commencement date provides an appropriate time for this to happen.”
28 August, 2009
New prison officers
locked into system
Twelve new prison officers have been welcomed to the State’s correctional services workforce following the first trainee course to be held at Port Augusta Prison in 10 years.
The new officers graduated in the presence of the Minister for Correctional Services, Tom Koutsantonis.
“All our prison officers are doing a great job and I thank them for their great contribution to delivering justice every day in South Australia,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
He said working in South Australia’s prison system was a difficult but rewarding occupation.
“The opportunity is there to make a difference to the lives of prisoners through rehabilitation and contribute to delivering justice to the South Australian public,” he said.
The graduating class of Trainee Correctional Officers have completed a three-month course of theory and practical experience to prepare them for their challenging new roles in South Australia’s prisons.
“Prison officers come from all walks of life and each person brings new ways of doing things and fresh approaches to detaining and rehabilitating prisoners,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
“This class includes a former train driver, a carpenter, the former manager of a tyre fitting company and a supervisor at the Baxter Immigration Detention Centre.”
Mr Koutsantonis said 11 of the graduates would be posted at Port Augusta, while one would be posted at Cadell Training Centre. The graduates are aged from 22 to 47 and include two women and ten men.
He said the $38 million expansion of regional prisons in the coming years would mean far more job opportunities for local people at Port Augusta, Mount Gambier and Port Lincoln.
“Our regional prisons are providing employment opportunities for local people.
“All of today’s graduates live in the towns in which they’ll work. That’s a great thing for the economic security of our country communities,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
28 August, 2009
Flu vaccine coming
SA Health has informed the State’s doctors that a vaccine for the potentially dangerous swine flu was likely to be available next month.
Director of Communicable Disease Control, Dr Ann Koehler said the program would be a Commonwealth initiative with priority vaccinations available to health care workers in direct contact with affected patients, GPs and people with chronic cardiac, respiratory, neurological, renal and some other conditions.
All Indigenous people and pregnant women in the 2nd and 3rd trimester were also included.
Inspectors in Riverland
Inspectors from the Office of Consumer and Business Affairshave been visiting Riverland to ensure shoppers were not being cheated when purchasing measurable quantities of product. The inspectors focus on scales in jewellers and pharmacists and length measurements used in hardware and automotive part traders.
Follow-ups will be conducted with traders found wanting who do not replace defected measurement devices risking fines up to $20,000.
New police on beat
Seventeen new police graduates have been added to South Australia’s police force.
Following their 36 weeks of intense training, the five female and 12 male graduates will now be posted to metropolitan areas to complete an initial phase of their probation period.
Attorney-General Michael Atkinson said South Australia was “on track to provide 700 extra police, above attrition, by mid next year.”
He said 114 cadets - 89 male and 25 female - were currently in training at the Fort Largs Police Academy.
New plan for springs
A new management plan has been adopted for Witjira National Park just a month after its Witjira-Dalhousie Springs received National Heritage listing.
The Department for Environment and Heritage’s, Trevor Naismith said the new plan included a special 50,000 hectare Dalhousie Springs Zone which prohibited exploration and mining activities near the sensitive springs environment.
Mr Naismith said the plan also provided for the national park to be managed in partnership with the local Aboriginal people, the Southern Arrente and Wangkangurru.
Norman top scientist
Professor Robert Norman has been named the 2009 South Australian Scientist of the Year.
Professor Norman is an obstetrician and gynaecologist who has specialised in the management of infertility and reproductive issues for nearly 30 years.
The award comes with a $50,000 prize.
Other recipients of $10,000 excellence awards included Professor Stephen Grano, Professor Alastair MacLennan, Professor Holger Maier, Anita Trenwith, Rona Sakko and Healthy Development Adelaide (HDA).
21 August, 2009
Cabinet opened for
release of documents
Secret Cabinet documents from the 1990s are to become available to the public under changes to the State’s Freedom of Information and Cabinet confidentiality arrangements.
South Australian Premier, Mike Rann said that from 1 October, confidential documents would be released after 10 years instead of the 20 year moratorium currently applying.
Mr Rann said he did not know of any other jurisdiction in the world that made its Cabinet documents available sooner.
He said the 10-year rule would mean that documents from as recent as 1999 would be available in South Australia while other States, including the Commonwealth, only released theirs after a minimum of 30 years.
Minister Assisting the Premier in Cabinet Business, Jay Weatherill said the Freedom of Information process had been overhauled to improve openness and accountability within Government and allow the public better access to documents.
Mr Weatherill said independent FOI officers were processing and responding to increasing numbers of applications from researchers, academics, the media, politicians and the public for the release of information.
“Cabinet documents that could be the subject of release within weeks include decisions to privatise State assets, major spending decisions, proposals to amend legislation, and a raft of other Cabinet deliberations,” Mr Weatherill said.
He said the FOI officers may decide to reject documents for release if they would “unreasonably disclose the personal or business affairs of an individual” or in other cases where it would not be in the public interest.
21 August, 2009
Bushfire report gets
hot reception
The South Australian Bushfire Task Force has met to analyse the findings of the Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission.
Acting Minister for Emergency Services, Michael Atkinson, said the taskforce would respond to the Royal Commission’s 51 recommendations in the coming weeks to determine immediate and long-term strategies for bushfire management practices in SA.
Mr Atkinson said that although South Australia’s bushfire policies had been developed over many years and had been effective, the Victorian Bushfires stressed the importance of re-examining strategies and policies.
“The more recent investigation into the Victorian disaster will be another step in our continual quest to better bushfire management in this State,” Mr Atkinson said.
He said South Australia was not immune to a bushfire of the magnitude and devastation that occurred in Victoria with climate change and drought altering their nature, ferocity and duration.
He said the Royal Commission’s findings were the result of six months work, including four weeks community consultation, examination of more than 1,260 submissions and eight weeks of public hearings involving 87 witnesses.
The SA Bushfire Task Force, chaired by the Chief Officer of the Country Fire Service, Euan Ferguson, was set up in March of this year, to determine new strategies for bushfire management practices.
Mr Atkinson said since that time the Task Force had been working closely with Agencies from all levels of Government to help prepare communities to meet the threat of bushfires better.
He said measures being considered included native vegetation clearance controls, restructuring bushfire management for better planning, modifying building standards and developing a telephone based warning system.
21 August, 2009
Cleaners clean up
in new pay policy
Cleaners working in Government owned or rented buildings in Adelaide are to enjoy improved pay and conditions under a new policy adopted by Cabinet.
Under the policy, all tenders for Government cleaning contracts will be required to adhere to Clean Start Principles which the Minister for Industrial Relations, Paul Caica said would improve the quality and stability of the State’s cleaning workforce.
Mr Caica said the initiative would be led by SafeWork SA
He said it the Clean Start Principleswere a national set of guidelines released by the Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union which aimed to protect and improve the pay, terms and conditions of cleaning workers.
“This initiative will help attract and retain a workforce that is stable, well-trained and competent, as well as significantly improving the situation of cleaners working in State Government buildings in the CBD,” Mr Caica said.
He said that the majority of affected cleaners were permanent part time, often working intensely over as short a period as a two hour minimum shift.
“These workers have traditionally been considered vulnerable in negotiating fair pay and workplace conditions,” Mr Caica said.
“The provision of an appropriate living wage for these workers will also contribute towards the State Government’s social inclusion objectives as outlined in South Australia’s Strategic Plan.”
He said by providing better wages and conditions for Government cleaners, he would anticipate a positive social and family impact on a group of workers “well in need of a fair go.”
21 August, 2009
Courts have room for
greater scrutiny
South Australia’s Court system has been urged to become more ‘media friendly’ and open itself up to greater public scrutiny.
The call was made by Premier Mike Rann who said he would like to see more filming and photography in Courts, but under strict rules, similar to those in force in New Zealand.
“For years people have criticised our Courts as being closed shops which apply suppression orders too readily,” Mr Rann said.
“That’s unfair, but unfortunately, that’s the perception.”
He denied his proposal would allow the media free rein within Courts, but would allow filming of the relevant aspects of criminal trials of public importance.
“I believe South Australians deserve to see what goes on in our Courts,” Mr Rann said, “especially when a trial of significant importance to society is being adjudicated.”
Attorney-General, Michael Atkinson offered to take the Premier’s comments to the Chief Justice, Chief Judge and Chief Magistrate for discussion before adopting any proposals.
Mr Atkinson said there was no doubt that issues relating to which parts of which trials could be filmed, the number of cameras to be allowed in a Court room and the application process for media to film would all need to be discussed at length before there was agreement on any of the details.
He said the proposal would not change the level of protection given to victims of crime.
“The New Zealand format has protections for victims and any witness who seeks them,” he said.
“The presiding Judge can grant protection at any time before the witness gives evidence.
“A similar format is appropriate for South Australia.”
21 August, 2009
Ambulance Service
picks up award
The South Australian Ambulance Service has been voted the best in Australia and New Zealand by the patients who use it.
In an annual survey conducted by the Council of Ambulance Authorities, the SAAS came out on top for overall patient satisfaction and received a top two rank in several other key areas.
The survey revealed that overall, the SAAS scored an equal first ranking of 98 per cent satisfaction among users.
It also fared in the top two States and Territories with 99 per cent satisfaction rate for response times and 98 per cent satisfaction for staff communication skills.
Health Minister John Hill congratulated the Service saying South Australia should be extremely proud of the SAAS for the fantastic job it does in providing a life-saving service to the community.
Mr Hill said the SAAS was an integral part of the State health system and its professionalism was second to none.
“The latest achievement just goes to show that the work our paramedics do out there every day is highly valued by their patients,” Mr Hill said.
He said the Government would allocate $10 million this financial year to maintain and upgrade the Ambulance Service.
21 August, 2009
Primary schools
line up for skills
An education program to boost the skills of South Australia’s primary school children has been launched by the Minister for Education, Jane Lomax-Smith.
Concentrating on mathematics, science and literacy skills, the Primary School Skills for the Future strategy will see $7.8 million in extra funding distributed to State primary schools on a per capita basis.
Announcing the plan during Science Week, Dr Lomax-Smith said the Government had identified those three areas as “core business” for every school and “critical to the economic future of South Australia.”
“This strategy will bring the focus back to the fundamentals of schooling and help to establish South Australia as a leader in science and mathematics education,” Dr Lomax-Smith said.
“Our aim is for all young people to have a better start and to be better prepared for skilled jobs.”
She said the schools would be required to direct the funds toward initiatives that improved the students’ science, mathematics and literacy skills.
“We would encourage schools to use local ingenuity to design classroom programs and lessons that respond to the needs of their students,” she said.
Dr Lomax-Smith said the Primary School Skills for the Future strategy also included specialist training in science and mathematics for every primary school teacher; minimum weekly teaching times by 2013 for maths, science and literacy; and expanding some programs and teaching methods to all schools.
21 August, 2009
Web blackspots
get green light
A Joint State and Commonwealth project to deliver a state-of-the-art internet service to broadband blackspots across Adelaide has been announced by the Minister for Science and the Information Economy, Michael O’Brien, and is Federal counterpart, Senator Stephen Conroy.
According to the Ministers the project will deliver high-speed broadband to homes and businesses across Adelaide suburbs well before the National Broadband Network is established.
“Broadband is an important part of family and business life,” Senator Conroy said, “ and this project will help ensure more people in metropolitan Adelaide have access to high-speed broadband services.
Mr O’Brien said about 10 per cent of the residents and businesses in metropolitan Adelaide were unable to use ADSL, the most common form of broadband access. He said the new service would be provided by local company, Adam Internet.
“This contract will initially create an extra 110 jobs during the network construction and customer connection phase,” Mr O’Brien said, “with 75 permanent jobs required in the longer term for ongoing operation and maintenance.”
He said work would begin almost immediately on the 350-plus blackspot locations across Adelaide.
“First connections are marked for significant problem areas in Reynella and other southern suburbs,” he said.
Mr O’Brien said resolving the broadband blackspots would have spin-off benefits for the South Australian economy.
“A study by economics consulting firm, Systems Knowledge Concepts Pty Ltd has shown that the economic benefit to the State of this initiative is estimated to be more than $87 million over five years,” Mr O’Brien said.
21 August, 2009
Public health changes
are good medicine
Stricter regulations and tougher enforcement provisions to protect public health and wellbeing are among the provisions of a new Public Health Bill released for public comment.
Health Minister John Hill said the new Public Health Bill 2009would “strengthen and modernise South Australia’s public health laws”, by replacing the outdated Public and Environmental Health Act 1987.
“The existing Act doesn’t reflect the significant changes that have taken place in our society and in public health practices over the last 20 years,” Mr Hill said.
“The Bill will provide modern, flexible health regulations and tougher enforcement powers to protect South Australians from practices that put their health and well-being at risk.”
He said the proposed changes would also improve responses to new public health challenges, like pandemic flu and SARS, and lifestyle conditions such as obesity and chronic conditions.
“Under the current Act, the maximum penalty for risking public health is only $60,000,” Mr Hill said.
“The new Bill would increase the maximum penalty to up to $1million and 10 years imprisonment.”
He said other legislative changes in the Bill included increased management of people with infectious disease who may be placing others at risk; establishing a statutory position of Chief Public Health Officer and expanding the South Australian Public Health Council to replace the Public and Environmental Health Council.
“People should expect a more transparent and accountable working relationship between State Government and Local Councils on public health issues,” Mr Hill said, “with everyone aware of their roles and responsibilities.”
21 August, 2009
Security paper
gets clearance
A Commonwealth Government discussion paper on proposed national security legislation has been circulated to State and Territory Governments and released to the public for consultation.
Federal Attorney-General, Robert McClelland said the paper proposed amendments to the law that sought to protect Australia, its people and its interests while ensuring the laws were exercised in a “just and accountable way.”
Mr McClelland said the focus of Australia’s national security and counter-terrorism laws remained on preventing terrorist attacks from occurring rather than waiting to punish people who committed them.
He said the Paper focused on extending police powers to allow them to search premises without a warrant if they believed there was a threat to the public due to terrorists and introducing new emergency powers to extend the time available to police when re-entering a premise (under search warrant) from one to 12 hours.
The paper also proposed expanding the definition of a ‘terrorist act’ to include psychological as well as physical harm; introducing a ‘terrorism hoax offence’ with a maximum punishment of 10 years for people who pretend a terrorist attack was being planned; and establishing a maximum seven day limit on the amount of time that could be specified by a magistrate and disregarded from an investigation period in relation to an alleged terrorism offence.
Mr McClelland said the paper looked at including a right of appeal for the prosecution and defendant against bail decisions; creating an offence of inciting violence against an individual on the basis of race, religion, nationality, national origin or political opinion; and extending the expiration period of regulations proscribing a terrorist organisation from two to three years.
He said proposals that the National Security Information (Criminal and Civil Proceedings) Act 2004 be amended so national security and counter-terrorism court proceedings could be expedited; and establishing a Parliamentary Joint Committee on Law Enforcement to extend parliamentary oversight were also discussed in the paper.
“This Discussion Paper provides the community and other stakeholders with the opportunity to participate in the process of amending Australia's national security and counter-terrorism laws,” he said.
“The Government has also introduced legislation to establish a National Security Legislation Monitor to review the practical operation of national security and counter-terrorism legislation on an annual basis.”
The Discussion Paper will be open for public comment until 25 September 2009 and is available at www.ag.gov.au
21 August, 2009
Watchers warned not
to bank on the whales
The Department for Environment and Heritage has issued a public warning for people to keep a safe distance from whales during the whale-watching season.
Animal Welfare Manager at DEH, Dr Deb Kelly said there had been a number of incidents recently involving surfers, boats and aircraft coming too close to whales and it was important to understand that human contact could be stressful for them.
“Regulations are in place outlining how closely people can approach whales,” Dr Kelly said.
“We urge the public to adhere to these regulations which are designed to protect whales as well as the public, and enjoy these animals from a safe distance.”
She said signs that a whale was experiencing stress included frequent diving, spending a longer time below the surface, increasing speed, repeatedly changing direction and frequent water spurts and tail slaps.
Coordinator of the SA Whale Centre, Natalie Perkins, said many people were not aware of how easily whales could be disturbed.
“To ensure whales return to our waters each year, we must maintain a safe and protected environment,” Ms Perkins said, “otherwise we run the risk of scaring them away altogether.”
She said while whale watching was a popular pastime, it was important it be carried out in an appropriate manner so whales remained relaxed in their environment.
She said the National Parks and Wildlife (Whales and Dolphins) Regulation stipulated the distance people, vessels and aircraft must keep between themselves and a whale.
She said Jet skis must not approach closer than 300 metres; motor boats, 100 metres but slowed to 5kph within 300 metres; swimmers and surfers at least 30 metres of an adult and 100 from a calf; and aircraft at least 300 metres above with helicopters no lower than 600 metres.
Ms Perkins said other rules applied to distressed whales or those with calves and the
Penalties could be as high as a $100,000 fine or two years imprisonment.
More information about whale watching, can be found atwww.environment.sa.gov.au or www.sawhalecentre.com
21 August, 2009
Prison gears up
for more guests
Mount Gambier Prison is to be expanded with 116 new beds added to the facility over the next two years.
Minister for Correctional Services, Tom Koutsantonis said three new prison units would be built at the South East jail as part of the Government’s program of improving regional prisons.
“This bed building blitz will provide a much-needed boost for the South East economy at a time of international economic uncertainty,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
“It will also provide new facilities for staff.”
He said that included in the Mount Gambier improvements was a 36-bed, low security unit with recreation and work opportunities available to the better—behaved inmates. This unit is expected to open in September 2010.
He said two new wings to accommodate another 80 prisoners would also be added to the site by 2011, including open space and a secure recreation area.
The Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure is to manage the new building project with tenders for construction to be called in the coming month.
Mr Koutsantonis said the Mount Gambier Prison was the only privately run correctional facility in the State with the facilities owned by the Government and G4S Custodial Services providing the services.
He said the prison held 159 prisoners, mainly low and medium security males, and employed about 70 local people.
21 August, 2009
Ranger Osborne
is Mate to all
The Department for Environment and Heritage has farewelled long-time ranger at Danggali Conservation Park, Mate Osborne after 23 years service.
Renowned as an ‘icon’ of the park, Mr Osborne’s retirement was greeted by DEH management as the “end of an era.”
Regional Conservator with DEH, Merridie Martin said Mr Osborne had been a valuable part of Danggali Conservation Park as well as the Department.
“We’ll miss his hard-working nature and sense of humour,” Ms Martin said.
She said Mr Osborne had worked for DEH as a construction and maintenance worker at Danggali and lived at Canopus Homestead, which was the park headquarters.
His hard work was recognised in 1998 when he was awarded a Public Service Medal for services to conservation.
According to Mr Osborne, his work in the park was often hard, but he found it very satisfying.
“My favourite parts of the job included meeting new people, fire management and the challenges of keeping the feral animal numbers under control,” he said.
“Working at Danggali has been a major part of my life and I’m not sure what I’ll miss the most about working there.
“I haven’t lived in a town since I was 14 years old, so I’m looking forward to moving to Berri, sitting under a gum tree and going fishing.”
MsMartin said despite losing Mr Osborne, Danggali would continue to have a ranger in the park and visitors were still encouraged to experience the remote, natural and cultural values it had to offer.
She said Danggali was recently declared a Wilderness Protection Area and contained some of the largest continuous stands of mallee left in Australia and had been part of the University of South Australia’s environmental education program for many years.
21 August, 2009
Indigenous housing
to blaze new trails
A discussion paper has been released on possible amendments to the Commonwealth Native Title Act aimed at speeding up public housing construction and infrastructure in remote Indigenous communities.
Federal Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin and Attorney-General, Robert McClelland said uncertainty about native title processes could cause delays to programs that delivered housing and infrastructure to Indigenous communities.
Ms Macklin and Mr McClelland said there were no current native title process for progressing housing and infrastructure development that benefited Indigenous communities.
“This uncertainty in the Act is creating delays,” they said.
The discussion paper looks at streamlining and improving provisions in the Act to allow public housing and infrastructure programs to be delivered more quickly to remote Indigenous communities.
It proposes a specific process to ensure housing and infrastructure could be built quickly following consultation with native title parties, without adversely impacting any native title rights.
Ms Macklin and Mr McClelland said the Commonwealth Government expected the new process to speed up a range of projects in Indigenous communities including public housing, medical clinics, schools and police stations, street lighting, water supply and electricity distribution.
“The proposals raised in the discussion paper protect underlying native title,” they said.
“Native title would not be extinguished, and existing heritage protection laws would continue to apply.”
They said submissions could be made until 4 September 2009, with further information available from www.fahcsia.gov.au
21 August, 2009
Land swap is grab for
transit-oriented plan
A second ‘transit-oriented development’ for Adelaide is on the drawing board with the Government negotiating a land swap in the city’s west.
Minister for Infrastructure, Patrick Conlon, said the proposed swap of the former Sheridan (Actil) factory site and the St Clair Oval on Woodville Road, which are both 4.7 hectares in size, for a TOD would help revitalise the western suburbs.
Mr Conlon said the proposal was “very exciting” and would provide an opportunity to create a ground breaking TOD but it was subject to community consultation by the City of Charles Sturt.
“A sustainable TOD at Woodville would complement the nearby green village which is currently being planned at the former Clipsal site at Bowden,” Mr Conlon said.
He said world class TODs were exactly what was wanted along the new electrified public transport routes.
“These developments are economically, socially and environmentally sustainable, and comprise an exciting mix of residential, retail and commercial activity not yet seen in Adelaide.”
He said planning could commence on the TOD early next year, subject to community consultation and Council processes.
Mr Conlon said the land swap, if approved, would deliver one of the largest areas of open space inside a residential project in the inner metropolitan area.
“Bringing together the former Cheltenham Racecourse site, the former Sheridan site and the St Clair oval will create a continuous open space with bicycle and pedestrian links between Woodville Road and Cheltenham Parade,” he said.
“I also anticipate that the land swap will increase the use of the adjacent Woodville train station, be a catalyst for the reinvigoration of Woodville Road and provide a diverse range of housing and other opportunities for the community.”
The land swap was endorsed by the Principal of Woodville High School, Meredith Edwards who said the school community would benefit as a result.
“The land swap will avoid the opening of roads which would otherwise have posed a risk to students accessing the nearby gymnasium,” Ms Edwards said.
“An additional benefit is that students and staff will have easier access to the relocated oval.”
21 August, 2009
Port Pirie blood
report a bottler
A report from SA Health into the levels of lead in the blood of children in Port Pirie has revealed a steady trend downwards.
The latest report shows that in June of this year, 67 per cent of children under five from the area had blood lead levels below 10 micrograms per decilitre, which was four per cent better than last year and 24 per cent better than in 2005.
Health Minister John Hill welcomed the figures saying they showed that the community and authorities working together were making steady progress in dealing with the issue of blood-lead levels in Port Pirie’s children.
Mr Hill said the percentage of children with blood-lead levels over 10 micrograms per decilitre – the World Health Organisation’s ‘level of concern’ - was at its lowest level since reporting began in the early 1980s.
He said the number of children with a blood-lead level equal or greater than 20 micrograms per decilitre had dropped from 63 in June 2007 to 23 in June 2009
He said the improvements could be attributed to initiatives under theTenby10 joint project between the Port Pirie Smelter, the Regional Council and the State Government.
“The Tenby10 project has achieved these excellent results with site emission control measures, community education and environmental and awareness programs,” Mr Hill said.
“These wide-reaching community education and awareness programs have increased people’s understanding of lead dust in the environment and how to limit their children’s exposure to lead dust at home,” he said.
21 August, 2009
Water plan flows
into Coorong
The next step in the process of restoring the Coorong and Lower Lakes to environmental health has been taken with the release of a new, long term plan.
The Department of Environment and Conservation has released the plan, outlined in the Managing for a Healthy Future document.
According to Environment Minister Jay Weatherill, the document presents a range of options for dealing with the environmental issues facing the region
He said the State Government would work with the community, scientists and industry to develop a long-term plan for the Coorong, Lower Lakes and Murray Mouth.
“The Coorong and lakes are suffering because of drought and over-allocation of water by upstream States,” Mr Weatherill said.
“South Australia receives only seven per cent of water allocations from the Murray-Darling, while Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland get 93 per cent.”
He said measures including in the Managing for a Healthy Futuredocument were re-vegetation and water diversion as well as pest, plant and animal control programs.
He said building on the framework outlined in the new Directions for a Healthy Future document would be new measures including increasing irrigation, reducing saliity, and optimising fish movement.
“This is about preserving the Coorong, the lakes and the Murray Mouth for future generations,” Mr Weatherill said.
He said the plan would be developed as part of the Government’sMurray Futures program which aimed to secure a healthy and sustainable future for the region.
21 August, 2009
Pay case opens
Informal discussions have commenced between Public Sector Workforce Relations and the Public Service Association on the next PS enterprise agreement.
The PSA has reported that PSWR has instigated the discussions were not due to get underway until September.
While both the Union and the PSWR accepted the talks were “without prejudice’ the PSA flagged that it would be working to ensure the new agreement included a universal salary increase for all; the protection of existing conditions; job security; improvements to conditions and Agency/classification specific schedules to deal with particular requirements.
Tenders called for ad contract
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has called tenders on the Government’s $38.8 million advertising program for the three years from July 2010.
The current master media agency contract is with Starcom and expires on 30 June next year.
The new contact will be for three years with a performance related extension of two.
Attorney-General settles
Allegations the Attorney-General defamed the Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Cannon in 2008 have led to an out-of-Court settlement to Mr Cannon of $175,000.
The terms of the settlement include an agreement by both parties not to lay blame and is inclusive of costs. The Attorney-General’s legal costs amounted to around $36,000.
The Crown Solicitor assessed the settlement as prudent and reasonable.
PS conference for Solomons
The Solomon Islands is to host the South Pacific Public Service Conference on 10 October.
Newspaper, the Solomon Star reported the Minister for Public Service, Milner Tozaka said it would give Public Servants the opportunity to meet their counterparts and discuss common issues.
The conference is funded by the Australia Public Service Commission, New Zealand Public Service Commission and Commonwealth Secretariat.
Heritage grants open
Applications for grants under the 2009-10 South Australian Heritage Fund Grant Program have been invited
Minister for Conservation, Jay Weatherill said projects involving conservation work on SA heritage places could be eligible with 39 projects sharing the funding from llast year’ss round.
Mr Weatherill said eligible applicants included private and corporate owners, church bodies, local Councils and community organisations but Government Departments were not eligible.
Applications close on 30 September and more details were available from the Department for Environment and Heritage Grants Heritage Officer on 8124 4715.
Active recipients named
Recipients of funding under the Active Club Program have been announced by the Minister for Recreation and Sport, Michael Wright.
Mr Wright said more than $1.2 million would now be shared between 205 organisations representing 44 different sports and active recreation activities.
He said the program offered financial assistance to grassroots organisations to help them strengthen and sustain active communities.
The Government had approved over $17 millionin Active Club grants since 2002.
Hospitals get $11m
More than $11 million is to be spent upgrading hospitals and improving services in country South Australia.
The Health Minister, John Hill said improving facilities and services in the country would mean more people could receive treatment closer to homes and there would be less need for some people to travel to Adelaide for health services.
He said the funding would go towards improving infrastructure at the country hospitals including upgrades to emergency departments, establishing or expanding renal services and upgrading air conditioning systems.
13 August, 2009
Call for Indigenous
to spearhead talks
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner, Tom Calma has called for Indigenous people to play a central role in developing the policies that affect them.
Commissioner Calma made his call in the lead up to the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People, held on 9 August.
He said Indigenous people needed to be involved to help find solutions to problems such as education, culture, health and human rights.
“We are not immune from these challenges in Australia and I urge us all to keep our eye on the ball and continue to build on the giant steps forward we’ve recently taken as a nation in relation to our Indigenous people,” Commissioner Calma said.
He said Governments had taken a number of positive steps towards eliminating inequality such as saying ‘sorry’ and formally supporting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
“Yet Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples remain marginalised in Australia and face entrenched poverty and ongoing discrimination on a daily basis.”
“We need to step up to the mark and put the Declaration to immediate use by ensuring it guides and articulates minimum standards for Governments to use in addressing those areas where Australia’s Indigenous people still face inequality.”
Commissioner Calma welcomed the establishment of a new national representative body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, saying it followed the UN Declaration and would offer Indigenous people “a ray of hope” for participation in the decision-making process.
“Indigenous people must be involved in the policies and programs which impact on their futures,” he said.
“We will not have provided solutions to all the challenges we face until Indigenous people have true participation and are real partners in efforts to Close the Gap in health, education, housing and have access to the same human rights protections as other Australians.”
13 August, 2009
Ministers subtracted
from Government ads
Government Ministers have been banned from appearing in official advertising, but Premier Mike Rann has confirmed that Government advertising campaigns will continue.
The Premier announced the ban the same day the Chief Executive and Acting Deputy CEO of the Department of the Premier and Cabinet were due to give evidence at a Parliamentary inquiry into taxpayer-funded political advertising.
Mr Rann said using politicians for important announcements could detract from the message, particularly because Government spending was highly scrutinised.
He reiterated that Government advertising, including drink driving, bushfire prevention, and water saving campaigns, would continue.
“We've still got to do that, I mean it's really important otherwise you're going to have people coming out saying we weren't aware of these laws,” Mr Rann said.
He said he would appoint additional staff to the independent Communications Advisory Group and all major campaign activity would be subject to an annual review by the Auditor-General.
Mr Rann said SA Greens MP Mark Parnell, would head a Parliamentary inquiry into taxpayer-funded Government advertising campaigns.
Opposition MP Rob Lucas questioned the potential effectiveness of the ban.
"The Government will still be able to spend millions of dollars on Government advertising without actually having politicians' faces on it,” Mr Lucas said.
13 August, 2009
Climate change fuels
water supply worries
Climate change is likely to have a greater impact on South Australia’s water supply than other States’ according to research and modelling carried out at the University of South Australia.
UniSA Associate Professor, Linda Zou, revealed the findings at a seminar at the University’s Mawson Lakes Campus this week and said the result would be a greater need for alternative sources of water.
Professor Zou said South Australia was well known as the driest state on the driest continent
“Consider this alongside the fact that our water supply depends heavily on the River Murray and has a smaller storage capacity than other states,” Professor Zou said.
She said the solution lay in combining traditional water sources with new sources, including desalination and water recycling.
“We’ve heard of this technology before, but recently we’ve been exploring less common desalination techniques, including those that save energy.
Professor Zou said continued research support was vital to refining these promising technologies.
She said UniSA had a major role in desalination research including a partnership with the National Centre for Excellence in Desalination that was backed by $25 million in Federal Governmental funding.
13 August, 2009
Childcare operators
to show and tell
National changes to childcare reporting requirements to be introduced this week will require all vacancy information to be posted online.
Federal Minister for Early Childhood Education and Child Care, Kate Ellis said from this week all child care services would have to report the number of vacant places for each day of the week in a bid to improve transparency in the child care sector.
Ms Ellis said parents would be able to access the information from the Child Care Access Hotline as soon as services reported the new data and from www.mychild.gov.au in the coming months.
“The inclusion of this information on 'mychild' will make it easier for parents to compare services and select appropriate care for the particular needs of their family,” Ms Ellis said.
“Through the mychild website, the Government is providing a comprehensive childcare hub which includes information on locations, fees, services and early learning programs via a searchable database of more than 8,000 child care providers.”
Ms Ellis said organisations would be required to report the number of vacant places based on a new standard definition.
“Vacancy information had previously been determined by individual child care services, with no common definition, making it difficult for parents to compare availability,” she said.
“The new standard definition is crucial to providing parents with accurate, useful and comparable information.”
For more information visit www.mychild.gov.au
13 August, 2009
Health to take
review medicine
A consultant’s review of the core business activities at the Department of Health has been completed with the reviewer making three recommendations.
Stemming for the mid-year mini-Budget which reconfigured PS activity towards front line service delivery, the review was commissioned by the Department to assist it meet its targetted efficiencies.
The review concludes that the current split of services in SA Health can be improved.
According to the Public Service Association which has been in discussion with the Department, the review team’s recommendations were:
- Immediate changes in the Finance Division with 14 full time equivalent positions declared excess;
- Development of a new Finance and Workforce/Human Resource model across SA Health within three months; and
- Implementation of specific performance improvement projects within Finance and Workforce/Human Resource, focussing on making processes consistent within six to 18 months.
“SA Health will be consulting with staff on the recommendations and the process to implement changes for a period of two weeks until close of business 18 August 2009,” the PSA says on its website.
It also says the four FTE positions judged to be excess have already been dealt with.
According to the Association, a project team is to be set up to produce a transition plan and Targeted Voluntary Separation Packages (TVSPs) may be offered to affected permanent staff.
The Union says the number of TVSPs, if any, will be decided closer to the time the positions are declared excess and Human Resource Principles will be developed to manage the process.
However, the PSA has concerns about the changes.
“If fully implemented,” it says, “(They) could see considerable reduction of full-time equivalent positions.”
It said it would be providing feedback on the review findings by the close of business 18 August.
In the meantime the Union has encouraged its members to read the report and forward their comments to PSA Senior Industrial Officer Dolly Costello.
The report can be accessed at http://in.health.sa.gov.au
13 August, 2009
New justice centre
sets bench mark
The $18.9 million Sturt St Justice Precinct is expected to be completed ahead of schedule and come on line next month.
Described by Attorney-General Michael Atkinson as the “cornerstone” of Government plans to speed-up the Court system, the overhauled precinct is expected to lead to a fast-tracking of legal processes and justice in the State.
Mr Atkinson said the refurbished complex featured two large courtrooms, three cells, two jury rooms, interview rooms, and ample space for prosecution and defence lawyers, witnesses, victims, and court administrators.
“A $3.2 million renovation, which is in the final stages of completion, will see the building fitted-out with modern technology, disabled access and security devices among many other features,” Mr Atkinson said.
He said he expected the two extra courtrooms to hear roughly 300 trials and hoped, along with other measures, the precinct would minimise waiting times in the State’s higher courts.
Mr Atkinson said three judges were recently appointed to the District Court and by the end of the financial year the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions would have an extra 78 employees.
He said the Government had also initiated improvements outside the Adelaide metropolitan area by building new Courts in Port Augusta, Berri, Port Lincoln, Port Pirie and Victor Harbor.
Mr Atkinson said other initiatives included $8.3 million to aid disadvantaged defendants, $3.1 million for faster forensics, $5.3 million to reduce the DNA backlog, and $520,000 for Aboriginal Language interpreters.
13 August, 2009
Heritage survey
sheds new light
The Department for Environment and Heritage has completed its second survey of South Australian heritage in the twentieth century.
Historical Research Pty Ltd carried out The Twentieth Century Heritage Survey of South Australia (1928 – 1945), commissioned by the Department.
Senior Heritage Officer for the Department, Hamish Angas, said the survey provided an overview of non-Aboriginal cultural heritage in South Australia.
“The survey spans the beginning of the Depression, concluding with the social and economic effects of the Second World War and the early stages of planned industrialisation,” Mr Angas said.
He said it recommended 31 new places for entry in the South Australian Heritage Register as State Heritage Places.
“The places that have been proposed for the Register include sites associated with the Second World War, industrial complexes, art deco architecture and a garden.
“The garden is the only known surviving garden in the state designed by renowned twentieth landscape designer Edna Walling, and has a special association with her life and work,” he said.
Mr Angas said a former radio station, proposed for entry in the Heritage Register, provided an example of the measures adopted for the defence of Australia during the Second World War.
“The Twentieth Century Heritage Survey also involved a review of those places that had already been entered in the South Australian Heritage Register before the Heritage Act 1993 came into force to provide better documentation for them.
He said South Australia had a unique history and the surveys identified significant heritage places to conserve for the future.
He said the Twentieth Century Heritage Survey of South Australia (1928 – 1945) could be downloaded at www.environment.sa.gov.au
13 August, 2009
Talking computers
have the last word
The federal social security agency, Centrelink is the first Government Agency to introduce a talking website.
Commonwealth Minister for Human Services, Chris Bowen said the ReadSpeaker™ system would allow Centrelink’s clients to listen to information on the website.
Mr Bowen said the new text-to-speech technology would allow the website visitors with low vision, low levels of literacy or those who spoke English as a second language to still access Centrelink information.
“Centrelink eServices, speaker verification technology, and the installation of an increased amount of self-service PCs at Centrelink offices are part of a concerted effort to improve the convenience and information for customers,” Mr Bowen said.
The breakthrough initiative was welcomed by Vision Australia’s General Manager of Policy and Advocacy, Michael Simpson, who said it would benefit people with low vision.
“This new feature for accessing Centrelink's web based information will be a real boost for thousands of people who have limited vision or who suffer eye strain,” Mr Simpson said.
“If this technology became a feature of all websites it would make information access much easier for people with low vision.”
He said the Centrelink website was a “great example” of combining the ReadSpeaker technology with web accessibility guidelines.
The ReadSpeaker application is free, works with the lowest broadband speeds and does not require a software download.
The application could be accessed by visiting www.centrelink.gov.au and selecting the listen feature.
13 August, 2009
Triple 0 warning
is plea for help
A warning that the emergency phone number triple zero (000) should only be used for life-threatening and time-critical emergencies has been issued by the Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Michael Wright.
Mr Wright said it was incredibly frustrating when members of the public wasted Fire, Police, and Ambulance resources.
“Hoax calls represent a severe drain on the resources of all of our emergency services and cost the community many hundreds of thousands of dollars each year,” Mr Wright said.
He said the South Australian Police alone dealt with an average of 40 hoax or abusive tripe zero calls each day.
“I’m disturbed by reports from SAPOL, that some people have dialled triple zero to order a Pizza or a Taxi because their house phone had been disconnected for failure to pay a bill,” he said.
Mr Wright said other examples included callers ringing to complain their hot water had broken down or that they had locked themselves out of their home.
“It is absolutely disgraceful and unacceptable that these individuals think they can tie up the phone lines when people’s lives are in serious danger and are desperate for help,” he said.
He said he was appealing for everyone to use common sense and think before they dialled triple zero.
Mr Wright said Police had the technology to catch those who misuse the service and would take all necessary action to bring them before the courts.
“People need to be aware that the Federal Criminal Code Act prohibits people making vexatious calls on the emergency network and can incur a maximum penalty of 3 years imprisonment, and South Australia has had successful prosecutions in recent times,” he said.
He said further information, including posters in 12 languages, could be found at http://www.triplezero.gov.au
13 August, 2009
Airports smoke out
new firefighters
Firefighters who enjoy a challenge have been invited to join Airservices Australia’s elite aviation rescue and fire fighting (ARFF) service.
Airservices’ If you’re fit, you’re it recruitment drive has kicked off for 2010 with male and female applicants from all cultures and backgrounds being targetted as long as they have strength, agility and overall fitness.
General Manager of ARFF, Andrew Rushbrook said the challenges inherent in aviation rescue and fire fighting often led potential applicants to believe they might not be up to the task but they were often wrong.
“Anyone with the required level of fitness and a commitment to ongoing skills development and training can pursue a career as an aviation fire fighter,” Mr Rushbrook said, “no matter what their background.”
He said ARFF was looking for a wide range of applicants to ensure its teams had the flexibility to meet all the demands of aviation-related emergencies.
“It’s a challenging and demanding career, but one with big opportunities and the chance to work at our fire stations around Australia.”
He said successful applicants would be required to complete a rigorous 10-week training regime in Melbourne and then join more than 600 fire fighters around the nation’s 21 busiest airports.
He said training included aircraft evacuation, aircraft and building fire fighting, first aid, environment protection, safety inspections, and control centre operations.
Mr Rushbrook said recruits were also trained in using some of the most sophisticated airport fire fighting equipment in the world, including high tech fire fighting vehicles and water rescue craft.
He said Airservices Australia was an equal opportunity employer and actively encouraged women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to apply.
Mr Rushbrook said applications closed on 30 August and more information was available www.airservicesaustralia.com
13 August, 2009
Tax agents collect
discussion paper
New regulations for a national tax agents system have been released for public comment.
Assistant Federal Treasurer, Senator Nick Sherry said the final version of the Exposure Draft Tax Agent Services Regulations outlined the requirements of tax agents under the new regime.
“With these new national regulations, consumers can be sure tax agent services meet the appropriate professional and ethical standards,” Senator Sherry said.
He said the draft included the qualifications and work experience requirements for registration as a tax agent or Business Activity Statement (BAS) agent under the new regime; application fees for registration; and the requirements necessary for recognition as a professional association or recognised BAS agent association.
Senator Sherry said the proposed reforms complemented the Commonwealth’s Tax Agent Services Act 2009, which went through Parliament this year, and the Tax Agent Services (Transitional Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Bill 2009 whichhas been finalised and introduced.
“Together with the Regulations released today, Australia is one step closer to finalising a national tax agent regime, a project that has been over 10 years in the making,” he said.
“I can confirm for industry and the community that we are on track for a start to the full regime in early 2010.”
Senator Sherry said the final consultation was “a very important element” of discussions with the sector and encouraged the industry to have its say.
He said the consultation period closed on 26 August 2009, with further information available from www.treasury.gov.au
13 August, 2009
Residents drink to
new water plant
Residents of Tarpeena in the State’s far South East will soon enjoy cleaner water following the completion of an iron removal plant in the township’s water supply.
South East Service Delivery Manager for SA Water, Janina Morrison, said the new plant – which filtered naturally occurring iron from the town’s water supply – would be a welcomed change for the local community.
“About 200 of our customers in Tarpeena should start to notice an improvement in their water quality, especially its colour,” Ms Morrison said.
She said in the past, the Tarpeena water supply had discoloured clothes washed using mains water.
“Now with the iron removal plant on-line and supplying the district, people will notice much clearer water coming out of their taps for washing,” she said.
Ms Morrison the project was an example of how SA Water was working to improve water quality for regional communities across the State.
She said work on the plant, located on the existing SA Water tank site at Tarpeena, began in September 2008 and was completed within 10 months.
Ms Morrison said the opening of the new plant was one of the first milestones in her new role as South East Service Delivery Manager.
“I’m looking forward to working in the operations field and ensuring we can maintain a high level of water and wastewater services for our South East customers,” she said.
Ms Morrison replaced Andy McPharlin who is now working for the Office for Water Security.
13 August, 2009
TAFE backs winner
with horse centre
A new horse skills training centre has opened at Allan Scott Park, Morphettville by TAFE SA.
Minister for Employment, Training, and Further Education, Michael O’Brien, said Morphetville was the obvious location for the Centre.
“TAFE SA has worked in partnership with Thoroughbred Racing South Australia (TRSA) and the South Australian Jockey Club (SAJC) to ensure the establishment of the centre was smooth and a benefit to the racing sector,” Mr O’Brien said.
He said the new Centre would provide comprehensive, industry-specific training to jockeys, track riders, stable hands, strappers, farmers, and stewards.
“More than 150 students are studying racing courses at TAFE SA from Certificate I to Diploma level and up to 20 are apprentice jockeys,” he said.
Mr O’Brien said the Centre, at the home of racing in South Australia, was the realisation of a vision shared by TRSA, the SAJC, and TAFE SA to create a centre of excellence in training for the racing industry.
“This is a great example of what can be achieved when the public training provider, TAFE SA, and industry work together to further skills development in our state,” he said.
He said TRSA provided $1.4 million toward the new facility, with TAFE SA contributing $80,761.
Mr O’Brien said TAFE SA worked closely with TRSA and JCSA to ensure the courses met the needs of the industry
He said the new facilities meant that racing courses could now be more flexible with a revised training package due to be implemented in 2010.
“This means in areas where there is a shortage, such as track riders, students can obtain four or five competencies rather than a whole certificate ensuring they can fill available industry positions more quickly,” Mr O’Brien said.
13 August, 2009
New suburb homes
in at Woodville
A new suburb which would house 1,200 homes on 22 hectares at Woodville in Adelaide’s west has been welcomed by the Land Management Corporation.
Chief Executive of the LMC, Wayne Gibbings, said the proposed St Clair development supported the Government’s 30-Year Plan for Greater Adelaide which was recently released.
“St Clair supports the 30-Year Plan by concentrating growth in an area that is surrounded by a transport corridor and that includes a good diversity of housing,” Mr Gibbings said.
He said St Clair supported the Government’s plans to develop suburbs and neighbourhoods that were connected, represented good urban design and incorporated sustainable practices.
The project’s Joint Venture Partners, AVJennings and Urban Pacific, said the development would feature 22 hectares dedicated to parks and wetlands.
They said it would combine the development of the former Sheridan site in Woodville and the Cheltenham Racecourse, creating an entire new suburb in Adelaide’s west.
The partners said the development had received strong endorsement from the Charles Sturt Council and the State Government.
They said St Clair would feature a $20 million stormwater recycling scheme which was funded by Charles Sturt Council and the State Government.
13 August, 2009
Minister zones off
on Glenside plan
The Minister for Urban Development and Planning, Paul Holloway, has released the final version of the Glenside Campus rezoning plan.
Mr Holloway said the final version incorporated changes that addressed many of the concerns raised during the community consultation process.
“More than 40 written submissions were received and some 150 people attended a public meeting as the Government encouraged community input into the proposed rezoning,” Mr Holloway said.
He said the rezoning would allow the Government to redevelop the Glenside Campus to include a new hospital and specialist services for mental health and substance abuse.
Mr Holloway said the rezoning would complement the new facilities by setting aside open space for public recreation, shops, an arts and film centre, and offices and housing.
He said some of the alterations incorporated in the final Ministerial Development Plan Amendment for the Glenside Campus included reinforcing the use of open space for a range of recreational activities, realigning the proposed office zone on Fullarton Road, and provisioning for open space such as courtyards, gardens and terraces in the hospital zone.
He said several concerns raised by the public were beyond the scope of the rezoning process.
“The State Government will continue to seek to work with the City of Burnside to address site development issues, such as traffic management, during the redevelopment of the Campus,” Mr Holloway said.
13 August, 2009
Grants scheme shows
that crime does pay
Local Councils, community groups, and not-for-profit organisations have been invited to apply for grants to pay for projects and programs to improve safety and reduce crime in their communities.
Attorney-General, Michael Atkinson, said the grants program was about the Government supporting locally-driven initiatives.
“Strategies to prevent crime should involve the whole community. The Crime Prevention and Community Safety Grants encourage businesses, not-for-profit organisations and local councils to work together to improve community safety for everyone,” Mr Atkinson said.
He said the grants, worth up to $50,000 each, were available for innovative projects that utilised problem solving techniques to aid in the reduction of crime.
“The scope of the grants scheme is very broad - from improving safety in public spaces and encouraging young people to make positive life choices to offender rehabilitation and home safety,” he said.
Mr Atkinson said the grants had funded a range of projects including improvements to home safety for older people, working with local youth to reduce vandalism, and decreasing homophobia in schools.
“The projects empower so many different groups in our society. To date, the grants program has funded 42 projects since its creation in 2006 and has distributed a total of $1.7M to help reduce crime and increase safety in South Australia,” he said.
Mr Atkinson said more information could be obtained by contacting the Attorney-General’s Department on (08) 8204 9855, emailing policyandresearch@agd.sa.gov.au or visiting www.agd.sa.gov.au
13 August, 2009
Magpie alert
The Department for Environment and Heritage has warned the community to be wary of swooping magpies this spring.
Animal Welfare Manager for the Department, Deb Kelly, said the birds swooped to protect their young and asked for patience from the community in the coming months.
Ms Kelly said there were several ways to prevent a bird swooping, including wearing a hat or using an umbrella, affixing a flag pole to children’s bikes, or taking an alternative route.
Systems panel unplugged
State Records has announced that the Electronic Document and Records Management Systems (EDRMS) Panel has expired and will not be renewed.
The agency said it would replace the panel with a framework of standards including the Document and Records Management Systems Standard; South Australian Recordkeeping Metadata Standard (SARKMS); EDRMS Design Standard; EDRMS Functional Specification Standard; and the EDRMS Procurement and Pre-Implementation Guideline.
Ranges a tourism hit
Minister for Tourism, Jane Lomax-Smith, has launched the inclusion of Flinders Ranges in a Tourism Australia program designed to promote and conserve Australia’s natural wonders.
Dr Lomax-Smith said the Flinders Ranges was one of nine National Landscapes to be included in the program and the National Landscapes recognition would provide a further boost to the region.
She said National Landscapes also added Kangaroo Island to its program in June.
Disability awards open
Disability SA is seeking nominations for the 2009 Peter Edwards Memorial Award.
The Award is granted in two categories:
- a person with intellectual disability – in recognition of personal development and/or achievement; and
- a person who works directly with people with intellectual disability – in recognition of personal contribution to the lives of people with intellectual disability.
Nominations will close on 31 August. Forms are available by contacting Jill Searle on 8372 1406 or at jill.searle@dfc.sa.gov.au
Community fund open
Applications are now open for round eight of the Premier’s Community Initiatives Fund, which will close at 5pm on the 28 September.
Information Sessions will be conducted by Premier’s Parliamentary, Grants and Support Services staff in Adelaide, Noarlunga, Payneham, Salisbury, Enfield, Berri (subject to demand) and Port Lincoln (subject to demand).
They will provide organisations with information on the application process and eligibility criteria.
More information can be obtained by contacting the Parliamentary, Grants & Support Services Unit on 08 8226 7671 or by emailing pcif@dpc.sa.gov.au
Dam submissions in
The Olympic Dam Taskforce will complete an initial consideration of more than 3,950 public submissions to BHP Billiton’s Environmental Arial Statement for the expansion of the Olympic Dam Mine.
Premier Mike Rann said what was proposed at Olympic Dam was the world’s largest mine and the Government needed to take into account the significant public response before completing its own final submission.
Mr Rann said the Government would publish its submission to the EIS when it was sent to the company later this month.
Students check science careers
Minister for Science and Information Economy, Michael O’Brien, said about 1,500 secondary school students joined scientists and mathematicians to learn more about education and job opportunities at Careers@ScienceAlive!.
He said it was one of many events to be held in conjunction National Science Week, which will run from 15 August to 23 August.
He said for a full program of National Science Week events in South Australia, go to www.scienceweek.info.au
6 August, 2009
Age discrimination
past its use-by date
The Federal Commissioner for Age Discrimination, Elizabeth Broderick has expressed her concern over reports that mature age workers face barriers to employment.
Commissioner Broderick said a report by National Seniors Australia, Experience Works, showed age discrimination was still occurring.
“This report reinforces the position of the Australian Human Rights Commission - that unlawful age discrimination is a critical problem faced by mature age workers in Australia today,” she said.
“Not only do we need to raise awareness of the types of age discrimination that are unlawful, but we need to strengthen the laws that protect against it.”
Commissioner Broderick said the trend of working past age 65 meant it was vital for the Government and employers to take the problem of age discrimination seriously.
She said many mature age workers worked out of necessity but faced hurdles in trying to do so.
“Everybody should be able to retire when they want to, but equally they should be able to continue working for as long as they need or want to, and we must seriously address the barriers that prevent people from doing so,” Commissioner Broderick said.
The report revealed Australia’s labour force participation rate for people aged between 55 and 64 was lower than in Scandinavia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Japan, Switzerland, Iceland and New Zealand.
“This is an issue that needs urgent attention, not only because age discrimination and misconceptions about mature age workers are occurring in our workplaces right now, but because this is an issue that is very likely to confront anyone who stays in the workforce past 45 years of age – and let’s face it, that is a significant number of us,” Commissioner Broderick said.
She said the report highlighted the need for Governments to recognise age discrimination as a barrier to mature age employment; commit to an awareness-raising campaign addressing the misconceptions surrounding mature age workers and the existence of laws protecting their rights; and to review the laws to strengthening their effectiveness.
6 August, 2009
House finance plan
creates interest
An innovative finance program that helps people move out of public housing and into a home of their own has signed up its 1,000th customer.
Minister for Housing, Jennifer Rankine, said the EquityStart Loan was a joint initiative between the State Government and HomeStart and allowed South Australians to secure their financial future.
“EquityStart has paved the way for public housing tenants to finally buy their dream home, and in the process is helping to relieve some of the pressure on the public housing system,” Ms Rankine said.
She said it was encouraging that people viewed home ownership as a goal to aspire to.
“One thousand customers is a brilliant achievement and we hope to be able to continue to provide these opportunities into the future,” she said.
Ms Rankine said the EquityStart Loan began in 2005 and was available to Housing SA tenants.
She said under the scheme, people could purchase either the property they were currently renting or another vacant public housing property. They could also buy into the private market.
Chief Executive Officer for HomeStart, Gary Storkey, said the milestone represented the strong desire of public housing tenants to stop renting and look toward their financial future.
“It was imperative that the EquityStart Loan enable customers to purchase a house without undue financial strain, and this loan makes it possible,” Mr Storkey said.
6 August, 2009
Health plans are
right medicine
SA Health has published three new plans to improve health services for older people.
Minister for Health, John Hill, said the SA Stroke Service Plan, Health Service Framework for Older People, and Palliative Care Services Plan continued the reforms that began with the release of the SA Health Care Plan in 2007.
Mr Hill said health services needed to consider what services people are likely to need and where they will need them.
“We’re looking ahead to make sure older people will have access to the best possible care and that we’re ready for an increase in demand for help with two of the big issues many people will have to face – strokes and terminal illness,” Mr Hill said.
Chief Medical Officer and Chair of the SA Clinical Senate, Professor Paddy Phillips, said as the State’s population aged, the plans would provide better outcomes for South Australians.
“This includes helping people to manage their conditions themselves as much as they can and, where possible, helping them stay out of hospital and cared for in their own home,” Professor Phillips said.
Mr Hill said The Palliative Care Services Plan 2009-1016 outlined a complete redesign of palliative care including an increase in the palliative care capacity of Country General Hospitals and an increase in the overall time patients received care at home.
Chair of the State-wide Palliative Care Clinical Network Steering Committee, Dr Peter Chapman, said meeting the emotional and spiritual needs of a patient nearing death was as important as meeting their physical needs.
“Palliative Care Services help people at end of life and their caregivers to receive the care and support wherever they want to be,” Dr Chapman said.
Mr Hill said The Health Service Framework for Older People 2009-2016 included the establishment of seven Regional Older People’s Health Services as well as the development of a clinical advisory strategy.
Joint Chair of the State-wide Older People Clinical Network Steering Committee, Professor Craig Whitehead, said the plan was a chance to improve the care of older South Australians.
“Putting this plan into practice will help many older South Australians live longer and more independent lives,” Professor Whitehead said.
Mr Hill said The SA Stroke Service Plan 2009-2016 detailed the best management of people who have suffered a stroke or at risk of a stroke, with the plan including the introduction of Comprehensive Stroke Units across major metropolitan hospitals and country general hospitals.
The Department said the plans were available on the SA Health website www.health.sa.gov.au
6 August, 2009
Library delivers on
newspaper program
The State Library of South Australia has renewed its search for old newspapers calling on people to check under their beds and in their sheds for historic old papers.
Part of the national Australian Newspaper Plan (ANPlan), the search was designed to find, collect and preserve access to historic newspapers.
Director of the State Library of South Australia, Alan Smith, said there had already been a significant find with copies of the Spring Creek Advertiser and Rodney Standard newspaper, dated 1868 to 1869, had been uncovered in Victoria.
“Such finds were important because not only did they report the news, they also told stories of their times, through ads, photographs and even their design – stories that should be saved for all Australians,” Mr Smith said.
He said the aim was to piece together Australia’s history, adding that regional papers were high on the most wanted list.
“Old newspapers are an important part of our social, political and cultural history, and they offer valuable insights into a society changed forever, and this is particularly important outside of our cities,’’ he said.
Mr Smith said Mt Gambier’s Exchange, Maitland’s Maitland Mail, and Yorketown’s Southern Yorke Peninsula pioneer were among the most sought after.
He said once the newspapers had been tracked down, they would be preserved for future generations of Australians and would be freely available through the National Library of Australia as well as State and Territory libraries
Mr Smith said a full list of the wanted newspapers could be found at www.nla.gov.au/anplan or by calling or Anthony Laube on 08 8207 7347.
6 August, 2009
Forum logs onto
internet safety
A forum showing parents how to keep children safe on the internet is to be held in Adelaide later this month.
Funded by the Government and hosted by the South Australian Association of School Parent Clubs, details were announced by the Minister for Education, Jane Lomax-Smith.
She said the forum would host a range of renowned cyber safety and anti-bullying experts.
“Technology is advancing at a rapid pace and many young people now have access to computers, mobiles and other devices with internet, photography and text messaging capabilities,” Dr Lomax-Smith said.
She said although the majority of young people used the devices responsibly, parents were concerned about the potential misuse of the technology.
“This forum will help parents to understand the capabilities of technology and how they can help to keep their child safe and also understand the consequences of their actions,” she said.
Dr Lomax-Smith said Mr Jody Melbourne, an expert on internet security, would be one of the key note speakers while a panel of experts would also be present to answer any questions from parents
“New technologies allow bullies to strike at any time of the day, night or week and taunts can be broadcast to dozens of people, or even the entire world, with the press of a button, she said.
Dr Lomax-Smith said the forum would be held at the Adelaide Festival Centre Banquet Room from 6pm on 24 August.
She said entry was free but seats were limited so it was important to register at www.decs.sa.gov.au or phone 8226 0247.
6 August, 2009
Foster parents push
brews more carers
A call by the Department for Families and Communities for more foster carers to look after children in need has led to a surge in interest according to new figures released by the Department.
Minister for Families and Communities, Jennifer Rankine, said the increase was encouraging with enquiries in May jumping 52.8 per cent higher than May of the previous year.
“This is very good news and shows that people are realising that there are many children who need good strong home-based care from a responsible carer,” Ms Rankine said.
She said more foster carers were still required, with about 100 places needed at any given time.
“Foster carers, of whom I’ve met hundreds since becoming Minister, invariably find the role extremely rewarding and I welcome more and more applicants for this important work,” she said.
Ms Rankine said a woman named Genevieve, who adopted her daughter Rachel as a foster child, had found the experience incredibly rewarding.
“It’s brilliant – I cannot remember my life before her,” Genevieve said.
Ms Rankine said Genevieve was so pleased she was planning to ask Anglicare SA for a second foster child.
“I am overwhelmingly fulfilled – it is the best thing I’ve ever done,” she said.
Ms Rankine said the Department conducted police and background checks of all foster care applicants, and contracted non-government organisations to train and allocate carers to children under guardianship orders.
6 August, 2009
Police collar
new database
A National Police Reference System which will allow the country’s 50,000 police officers in all States and territories to share information has been completed by the central database agency, CrimTrac.
Federal Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor said the NPRS allowed police to exchange information about serious criminal matters across States and Territories.
“This system will provide police with vital information for solving crime and will prove to be a powerful investigative tool,” Mr O’Connor said.
“By the end of July, police across Australia will be able to access NPRS and locate vital information about persons of interest.”
He said the shared information included warnings, warrants, offence histories, orders, firearms and bail information; whether the person was wanted or missing; and whether they were on the Australian Child Offender Register.
“The CrimTrac Agency has been working collaboratively with police and law enforcement agencies for several years to develop a national information sharing capability,” Mr O’Connor said.
“The NPRS will assist police with their day-to-day duties by providing them with a nationwide view of persons of interest and providing police with the capacity to make better-informed, critical decisions when dealing with these people.”
He said the take up of NPRS increased four-fold in the past 12 months, with CrimTrac conducting almost 150,000 transactions each day for operational police.
Mr O’Connor said police jurisdictions had given overwhelming support to expanding NPRS data sets, requesting information relating to vehicles of interest, firearms identification, driver’s licences, known associates and associations and geo-spatial data to assist with crime management.
6 August, 2009
SARDI food recipe
is taste of future
The South Australian Research and Development Institute has used its food technology expertise to transform an unappetising paste used around the world to treat malnutrition into a tasty, enjoyable medicinal cookie.
Minister for Food, Paul Caica, said SARDI food technologist, Stewart Eddie; TAFE baker, Fee Lee; and exchange student, Jessica Stephani created the recipe using sensory evaluation techniques.
He said the SARDI team was first approached about the cookie by AMA Doctor of the Year, Dr Jill Benson, who wanted to create an enriched, high energy, ready-to-eat food.
“They found an existing malnutrition paste being used in Africa by the UN contained all the necessary ingredients, but it was a sticky, mushy concoction and lacked in taste,” he said.
Mr Caica said the baked biscuit layers provided a boost of energy while the icing-type mixture was packed with vitamins and minerals.
He said the icing contained vitamins A, B-complex, C, D, E, K, and minerals calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, zinc, copper, iron, iodine, sodium, and selenium.
Mr Eddie said Jessica Stephani’s expertise had been critical in transforming the paste into an enjoyable treat
“The real breakthrough has been in experimenting with different types of flour which is making a massive difference to both the product’s texture and taste,” Mr Eddie said.
Mr Caica said the new cookie recipe would be finalised in the next few months, and would be available to health professionals.
“The student exchange program has enriched the learning for South Australian food students and we hope our local students will be inspired to take up similar placements in France to complement their food technology training,” Mr Caica said.
6 August, 2009
School survey shows
where leavers pulled
A survey of more than 2,000 South Australian school leavers has revealed that the majority went on to further study, work, or training in the year after leaving school.
Minister for Education, Jane Lomax-Smith, said the 2008 Survey of South Australian Year 12 School Leavers provided valuable information that would inform the rollout of the Federal Government’s new Compact with Young Australian and State initiatives.
She said a core principle of the Compact was that anyone under the age of 25 should be earning or learning.
“Knowing the number of school leavers who go to university, take up an apprenticeship, or find a job can help us to identify some of the factors that influence the choices made by young people,” Dr Lomax-Smith said.
She said strategies and policies could then be formulated to help students make informed decisions about their future.
“The survey results also reinforce the message that staying at school and completing the SACE is the best way to ensure a successful future,” she said.
Dr Lomax-Smith said the sample survey found 62.1 per cent of young people enrolled in Year 12 in 2007 continued in some form of education or training in 2008 and 31.9 per cent of the Year 12 school leavers were in full-time or part-time work.
She said the University of Melbourne’s Centre for Post-Compulsory Education and Lifelong Learning conducted the survey, interviewing 2035 former Year 12 students.
Dr Lomax-Smith said 57.3 per cent of the students interviewed were females while 42.7 per cent were males.
She said three quarters were from government schools, while 43 students interviewed were indigenous.
6 August, 2009
Super clinics just
what doctor ordered
GP Super Clinics are to be set up in Noarlunga, Playford North and Modbury following the State Government signing agreements with the Commonwealth.
Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd said the Noarlunga and Modbury Clinics would be jointly funded by the State Government and the Commonwealth with each receiving $25m.
He said the Noarlunga Clinic would be built within the Noarlunga Hospital and Health Village precinct, while the Modbury Clinic would be built across two sites with a hub at Tea Tree Gully and a spoke at Gilles Plains Primary Health Care Service.
Mr Rudd said the two clinics would focus particularly on patients with chronic and complex conditions.
He said Adelaide Unicare in partnership with the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia would operate the $7.5m Playford North Clinic.
Mr Rudd said the Playford North Clinic would provide one-stop primary health care to the growing suburb, with allied health services provided in areas such as physiotherapy, psychology, and exercise therapy.
He said all three clinics would have a strong focus on education and training and would support inter-professional learning by undergraduate and postgraduate medical, nursing and allied health students.
6 August, 2009
Horticulture is new
growth industry
A new website to help people start up horticultural enterprises in the Limestone Coast region has been launched by the Minister for Agriculture, Paul Caica.
Developed by Primary Industries and Resources SA and the Limestone Coast Regional Development Board, the one-stop website is expected to encourage investment in the region’s horticulture industry.
Mr Caica said the website highlighted the key strengths for horticulture in the Limestone Coast region.
“The site spells out the great range of great features that make this region ideal for horticulture: reliable rainfall, a plentiful supply of underground water and some of the state’s best horticultural soil, as well as established infrastructure and industrial diversity,” Mr Caica said.
He said the site included maps of the regions, including soil associations, water availability, and climatic condition.
Mr Caica said information regarding labour costs, the economy, plus communication and lifestyle would also be available on the site.
“The site directs potential investors to all the relevant industry bodies, organisations and government departments for further assistance,” he said.
Chief Executive Officer of the Limestone Coast Regional Development Board, Grant King, said there had been a surge in the number of potential investors interested in the region for major horticulture opportunities in the last three years
“The Limestone Coast is already home to multi-million-dollar enterprises generating a wide variety of horticultural produce that supplies domestic and international markets,” Mr King said.
He said in 2007-08 the Gross Farm Value of horticulture in the Limestone Coast Region was over $60 million and the region was deemed to be one of the fastest growing agricultural industries in this region.
“This website will be a vital tool in providing information and enhancing the profile of the Limestone Coast’s horticulture industry,” Mr King said.
6 August, 2009
War veterans target
entitlements
Aboriginal war veterans who served in the Army, Navy or Air Force, or their dependants have been urged to contact the Department of the Premier and Cabinet to take part in an Aboriginal Members and Dependants Project.
State Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Michael Atkinson, said the project, the first of its kind to be undertaken, would aim to locate all Aboriginal veterans and their dependents and inform them of their rights under Commonwealth Government legislation.
He said the Project Committee, chaired by ex-service woman Marj Trip, would also assist needy veterans and dependents to pursue any entitlements.
“Veterans do not necessarily need to have seen active service, participation within any of the services in peace or at war may give rise to an entitlement,” Mr Atkinson said.
He said there were many Aboriginal veterans who returned from service and no longer viewed themselves as part of the military family.
“Some left the services and moved to remote localities where they could not get support from any ex-service organisation or from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs,” he said.
Mr Atkinson said these veterans were the ones the Department was particularly keen to make contact with.
He said the response so far had been positive, with many veterans and dependants coming forward to apply for their entitlements.
“We are forever grateful to all the men and women who offer to serve in our armed forces and it is only appropriate that we strive to see that those who may have suffered some injury during their service are properly treated,” Mr Atkinson said.
6 August, 2009
Price not right
for consumers
The Commonwealth Consumer Affairs Advisory Council has warned that because consumers have a low level of awareness about their rights, the cost of goods was increasing.
An Issues Paper on consumer protection published by CCAAC, examines Commonwealth and State laws relating to warranties on consumer goods and according to the Federal Minister for Competition and Consumer Affairs, Craig Emerson, the paper entitled Consumer Rights. Statutory implied conditions and warranties, finds many consumers do not understand their rights in relation to refunds on defective goods.
“Signs displayed by stores such as ‘no cash refunds’, ‘no refunds after 30 days’ and ‘all care but no responsibility’, cannot negate customers’ rights under consumer protection laws,” Dr Emerson said.
He expressed concern that consumers were purchasing costly extended warranties at retail stores in the belief their rights expired when the manufacturer’s warranty did.
“Consumers tend to believe that their entitlements to a refund or repair of defective products are contained only in the formal warranties issued at retail stores,” he said.
“Implied warranties, provided through Federal and State consumer laws, can operate well beyond the expiry date of a statutory warranty.
“If a dishwasher has a one-year warranty and collapses in its 13th month of use, the consumer could still be protected by the implied warranty.”
Dr Emerson said extended warranties might not be worth the expense.
He said the paper also examined goods sold at auction, including online, which were not presently covered by implied warranties.
“Online auctions are rapidly growing in popularity and consumer protection policy needs to catch up,” he said.
It is estimated that problems relating to warranties and refunds were costing Australians around $12 billion a year.
Dr Emerson welcomed public comment on the Issues Paper, which was available at www.treasury.gov.au
6 August, 2009
New farm laws plant
seeds of protection
New laws offering stronger protection to farmers and the State’s fresh produce industry came into effect this week.
Minister for Agriculture, Paul Caica, welcomed the Plant Health Act 2009 which he said would tighten import rules for plant and plant-related products and boost South Australia’s plant biosecurity measures.
Mr Caica said on-the-spot fines would apply to anyone carrying unauthorised fruit into the Riverland, while increased penalties would apply if uncertified fruit and vegetables were brought into the State.
“This not only saves the State the considerable expense involved with eradicating outbreaks, it provides SA and our ‘fruit bowl’ in the Riverland with a definitive market advantage,” Mr Caica said.
He said the new Act provided for upgraded levels of protection of plants from pests within South Australia; the regulation of plants into, within, and out of the State; and the control of pests.
Mr Caica said the laws required the registration of all importers of plant and plant related material into South Australia, transport manifests to be provided prior to entry of plant and plant related material.
He said there were also new import verification procedures and increased penalties for non-compliance.
Mr Caica said Primary Industries and Resources SA had been working with key horticulture industry groups, the State’s produce importers and exporters, and transport companies to explain the changes and assist implementation.
He said the Plant Health Act 2009 repealed existing legislation – the Fruit and Plant Protection Act 1992 and the Noxious Insects Act 1934 and details could be found at www.pir.sa.gov.au
6 August, 2009
Aboriginal action in
activity campaign
The State’s Be Active health and wellbeing campaign has taken on a fresh look by unveiling a new strategy to include the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation Minister, Jay Weatherill, said the State-wide program, which encouraged South Australians to look after their health, was now being tailored to appeal to different sections of the community.
“Being active means different things for different people – some people like running, while others prefer walking and some people kick the footy, whereas others head to the beach,” Mr Weatherill said.
He said the Department focussed the campaign on different parts of the community including preschoolers, women, and workers.
“Recently, we went out to ask Aboriginal people what they like to do to be active,” he said.
Mr Weatherill said Aboriginal artist, Susan Betts, was then asked to paint a picture depicting those themes.
“The painting shows a strong, healthy spirit person as well as the ways people told us they like to be active – football, soccer, netball, softball, dancing, fishing and hunting.
“Different regions of the State are depicted by local bush tucker, because communities highlighted hunting as a culturally important physical activity,” he said.
Mr Weatherill when monitoring began in 2001, less than one third of South Australian adults exercised regularly.
“That figure has jumped to half the population in 2008,” Mr Weatherill said.
6 August, 2009
Grants scheme shows
that crime does pay
Local Councils, community groups, and not-for-profit organisations have been invited to apply for grants to pay for projects and programs to improve safety and reduce crime in their communities.
Attorney-General, Michael Atkinson, said the grants program was about the Government supporting locally-driven initiatives.
“Strategies to prevent crime should involve the whole community. The Crime Prevention and Community Safety Grants encourage businesses, not-for-profit organisations and local councils to work together to improve community safety for everyone,” Mr Atkinson said.
He said the grants, worth up to $50,000 each, were available for innovative projects that utilised problem solving techniques to aid in the reduction of crime.
“The scope of the grants scheme is very broad - from improving safety in public spaces and encouraging young people to make positive life choices to offender rehabilitation and home safety,” he said.
Mr Atkinson said the grants had funded a range of projects including improvements to home safety for older people, working with local youth to reduce vandalism, and decreasing homophobia in schools.
“The projects empower so many different groups in our society. To date, the grants program has funded 42 projects since its creation in 2006 and has distributed a total of $1.7M to help reduce crime and increase safety in South Australia,” he said.
Mr Atkinson said more information could be obtained by contacting the Attorney-General’s Department on (08) 8204 9855, emailing policyandresearch@agd.sa.gov.au or visiting www.agd.sa.gov.au
6 August, 2009
Road contract in
right direction
A $6 million contract to plan a section of Adelaide's dedicated north-south transport corridor has been awarded by the Federal Government.
Commonwealth Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Anthony Albanese, announced the deal saying a consortium led by AECOM had won the job to develop plans for a grade separation of South Road and Sturt Road and investigate an extension of the Tonsley Rail Line to the Flinders Medical Centre.
He said the section Of South Road was complex and involved several crucial intersections as well as a suburban rail line.
"The study includes community engagement, geotechnical investigations and an Environmental Impact Statement,” Mr Albanese said.
He said the study would give the Government an idea of the preferred scheme and once completed, the project would be ready to go to tender.
He said the South Australian Government had committed $430 million toward South Road, meaning that coupled with the Federal Government’s contribution, more than $1b would be spent on recent or new works on South Road over the next five years.
State Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Patrick Conlon, said the South Australian Government was committed to creating a free-flowing north-south corridor. "Identifying exactly what needs to be done at Darlington is the next part of this process," Mr Conlon said.
He said the construction of the Gallipoli Underpass at Anzac Highway had removed one of the State's worst bottlenecks and work had also started on the Glenelg Tram Overpass at Black Forest.
“Both projects are set for completion later this year," he said.
Mr Conlon said the Department of Transport, Energy and Infrastructure would work with other State agencies and key stakeholders including local Councils to ensure ideas developed for the Darlington Transport Study were integrated into the wider strategic picture.
6 August, 2009
Tourism awards up
Nominations for the 2009 South Australian Tourism Awards have increased 20 per cent this year, with 169 entries from across the State.
Minister for Tourism, Jane Lomax-Smith, said the increase was reversing a four-year trend.
She said the Awards Presentation Ceremony and Gala Dinner would be held on 7 November at the Adelaide Convention Centre, with the winner from each category later representing South Australia at the Australian Tourism Awards in February.
Scholarships awarded
The 2009 Dame Roma Mitchell Scholarships have been presented to two Aboriginal students who will receive $2,000 each.
Minister for Education, Jane Lomax-Smith said the winners were Melissa Clark from Adelaide High School and Shauna Carter of Ocean View College in Taperoo.
Dr Lomax-Smith said since its inception in 1993, the scholarship had supported two Aboriginal Year 10 students each year to achieve their SACE.
New school leadership
The proposed leadership structure for two new schools at Munno Para and Playford North has been announced by the Minister for Education, Jane Lomax-Smith.
Dr Lomax-Smith said under the structure, the two schools which are due to open from term four 2010, would have a Principal as well as dedicated heads for each level of schooling.
She said a series of community forums for each new school would begin soon so parents and students could speak to key staff, including principals, and view the concept designs.
Firefighter to Canada
A Regional Fire Officer for the Department of Environment and Heritage, Rob Ellis, is to travel to Canada to assist in efforts to control the large forest fires burning in British Columbia.
The Department said Mr Ellis was the only South Australian to join a 30-strong contingent from Australia and New Zealand.
Volunteers to be honoured
The Minister for Environment and Conservation, Jay Weatherill, has encouraged volunteers who devote time to conserving South Australia’s natural resources to nominate for this year’s Premier’s Natural Resources Management awards.
Mr Weatherill said there were seven award categories and entries were open until 22 August.
He said further information about the Awards could be obtained at www.nrm.sa.gov.au or by calling (08) 84636851.
Festival program unveiled
The Adelaide Festival Centre has unveiled its program for the third annual OzAsia Festival which will run from 3 October to 17 October.
The Festival will open with the Moon Lantern Festival and feature a performance by the Shandong Laizhou Martial Arts School
The program will also feature talented artists from China, Japan, the UK, Korea, Indonesia, India, Hong Kong, Pakistan and Malaysia, with President of the East Timor, Jose Ramos-Horta, delivering the keynote address at the Festival’s Symposium.
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