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SearchArchives for August 2011
25 August, 2011
Planning system back
to the drawing board
A major shake-up has been announced for the States’ planning system.
Minister for Urban Development and Planning, John Rau said the overhaul was needed to deliver greater transparency and restore public confidence in the land development process.
Mr Rau said Cabinet had given the go-ahead to reforming the Residential Code by the end of the year.
He said among the areas for change were improved infrastructure planning to ensure the rezoning of land near Mt Barker could never happen again; an end to the use of Major Project status to push through urban developments; and major changes to the Code to simplify requirements and streamline approvals.
He said other critical areas for change included an overhaul of the zoning system to reduce the number of zone categories from more than 600 to 27 and an immediate review of the City of Adelaide’s planning policy framework.
Mr Rau said plans were well advanced to reform zoning to ensure greater consistency across the State and make it easier for Local Councils to align their decisions with the 30-year plan.
“It is clear that the Residential Code was not delivering the improvements we were expecting,” Mr Rau said.
He said the reforms would include 22 suggested by industry.
“I am not in favour of decoupling rezoning from infrastructure planning,” Mr Rau said.
“With the benefit of hindsight, this was a problem in the Mt Barker rezoning – there will be no more Mt Barkers on my watch.”
He said he would not allow developers to push him into rezoning when infrastructure needs were “not known, not planned for and not funded”.
Mr Rau also signalled significant changes in the number of urban development projects proceeding as Major Projects.
“I believe use of major project powers has largely been the product of redundant local planning policies,” he said.
“And if we get the rezoning right, I do not foresee a future need for major project powers to be used for urban developments.”
He said once the reforms were in place, developers would interact with a transparent, flexible development policy, not with the Government.
Mr Rau also emphasised the importance of the City of Adelaide in meeting the challenges of predicted growth of 560,000 people in the greater Adelaide area over the next three decades.
25 August, 2011
New health campaign
the right medicine
A new lifestyle campaign to improve the health of workers in South Australian workplaces has been launched by SA Health.
Acting Minister for Health , Patrick Conlon said the new Healthy Workers - Healthy Futures initiative would invite industry and regional organisations to submit proposals to host Healthy Workers Advisers.
Mr Conlon said the Healthy Workers Advisers would work with industries and SA Health to come up with targeted, realistic and sustainable changes.
“This could include workplace policies and activities to encourage employees to quit smoking, reduce their alcohol intake, get active and eat more healthy food,” Mr Conlon said.
“Healthy employees are also healthy adults who can join in family and social activities with more energy and live longer lives.”
He said South Australia had received $10.57 million from the Commonwealth under the Healthy Workers initiative announced by the Federal Minister for Health and Ageing, Nicola Roxon in June.
He said of that funding, $7.575 million was designated to appoint Healthy Workers Advisers through a series of host industry or regional agencies over the next four years.
Mr Conlon said the first Request for Proposals would close on Monday 19 September.
He said a second round would open in the first quarter of 2012 and all advisers were expected to be in place by July 2012.
Interested industries or agencies could review the Request for Proposals at this PS News link.
Mr Conlon said resources to support the Healthy Workers Advisers would also be available online to all businesses and industries to promote a healthy working environment.
He said if South Australia was successful in achieving the population-wide targets of increasing the percentage of healthy adults, as set out under the National Partnership Agreement on Preventative Health, the State may be eligible for additional reward payments.
25 August, 2011
After school care
guide passes test
The first national guidelines for after school and vacation care have been released by the Federal Minister for Early Childhood, Peter Garrett.
Mr Garrett said My Time, Our Place – Framework for School Age Care in Australia emphasised the importance of allowing children to learn through fun and playtime.
He said the guidelines would be implemented across the country from the beginning of 2012.
“This is the first time we’ve had a national set of principles for a care sector that is used by a large proportion of Australian families, providing support to working parents and a safe, fun learning environment for school aged children,” Mr Garrett said.
“We know that this is one of the fastest growing sectors in child care – for example, during the December 2010 quarter, almost 256,000 children attended before and after school care, compared to 242,600 children over the same period the year before.”
He said the latest figures represented an increase of 5.5 per cent but until now there had been no national set of standards and expected results.
He said My Time, Our Place was developed for the Australian and State and Territory Governments by school age care expert Dr Jennifer Cartmel of Queensland’s Griffith University, in consultation with peak school age care bodies, educators and parent groups.
Commonwealth Minister for Child Care, Kate Ellis said the aim of the framework was to provide children with a strong sense of identity and wellbeing, to give them confidence and communication skills, and to help them feel connected to the world.
“Children thrive when families, educators, schools and the wider community work together in partnership to support children’s wellbeing and learning,” Ms Ellis said.
“We’re moving away from the highly structured, one size fits all approach and more towards a system of care which responds to the needs and interests of individual children.”
More information on the My Time, Our Place framework is available from this PS News link.
25 August, 2011
Inspectors show off
skills in showbags
Safety Officers from Consumer and Business Services (CBS) have inspected a record number of showbags this year in readiness for the Royal Adelaide Show which opens on 2 September.
Minister for Consumer Affairs Gail Gago said that from the 1,346 show bag items inspected this year, no safety breaches were detected, which was the first time in five years the safety inspectors had cleared all the show bags’ toys and novelties.
Ms Gago described the result as “outstanding” saying it was largely due to the tougher penalties in place and a more nationalised approach to product safety.
“The Australian Consumer Law was revised earlier this year to introduce tougher penalties for supplying goods which do not meet mandatory safety standards or are banned,” Ms Gago said.
“Penalties exist of up to $1.1 million for companies and $220,000 for individuals.”
She said traders could also be issued expiation notices of $1,200.
“This compares to a maximum penalty of $10,000 for the sale of unsafe items under the previous legislation.”
Ms Gago said CBS had also worked closely with national regulators to inspect show bags, as suppliers moved from one State to another.
She said suppliers provided safety inspectors with accredited product test reports from the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) which improved the inspection process and provided added confidence in the safety of the products supplied.
“Most suppliers offered test reports upfront and covered the associated costs of having the tests done by accredited labs from their own pocket,” Ms Gago said.
“The NATA reports declare that the toys and novelties have been subjected to certified testing for compliance with the relevant safety standard.”
She said CBS had contacted suppliers prior to their arrival at the show to remind them of their product safety mandatory obligations.
Ms Gago said show bags would continue to be monitored by CBS inspectors during the course of the show.
25 August, 2011
DENR swoops on
bird warnings
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has issued a warning for people outdoors to be aware of swooping birds.
Manager of Animal Welfare with DENR , Deb Kelly, said magpies were usually friendly, but became very protective of their nests during the breeding season.
“Magpies produce three to five eggs in early-to-mid August, and females sit on the eggs for about 20 days,” Dr Kelly said.
“The breeding season is normally over by the end of September.”
She said magpies were generally not aggressive, and for most of the year they happily co-existed with people, however they would strongly defend their territory against other magpies, and became very protective of their nests and young during the breeding season.
“Some magpies may swoop if people or animals move too close to their nests while chicks are present,” Dr Kelly said.
“The male magpies are responsible for most swooping.”
She swooping might seem frightening, however it was an important part of the bird’s survival and reproductive strategy.
“Our advice to people during the forthcoming breeding season is to try to avoid nesting areas where possible, even by taking a detour from your normal path.
“Most magpies will only swoop within about 50 metres of their nest.”
Dr Kelly said tips for surviving the magpie swooping season included travelling in groups where possible; carrying an open umbrella above your head; wearing sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat; and avoiding acting aggressively.
She said cyclists should walk rather than ride their bikes through magpie territory – or have a flag on the back of the bike that’s higher than their head.
DENR also warmed people to watch out for the masked lapwing which had the unfortunate habit of building nests in the middle of median strips and ovals.
Regional Ecologist, Jason Van Weenen said the grey-brown, black and white bird with long legs and a yellow face, could become highly territorial during breeding season between July and November.
“Like magpies, they can be loud and aggressive during their breeding season and they will swoop on people who get too close to their nests,” Mr Weenen said.
“The strong theme to all their nesting sites is that they have very good visibility to approaching danger.”
25 August, 2011
Forestry SA grows
by 1500 hectares
ForestrySA has added 1,500 hectares to its plantation estate with the purchase of pine plantations and blue gum stands in Victoria.
Land purchase program coordinator at the Agency, David Kenseley said the land had been added to the 93,000 hectares of primarily radiata pine plantation already owned and managed by ForestrySA in the Green Triangle, Mount Lofty Ranges and Mid North regions.
Mr Kenseley said the new transactions secured two significant areas of standing pine plantation as well as a large parcel of blue gum plantation area that spanned six separate properties.
He said the two areas of pine were located between Dartmoor and Digby in Victoria, and consisted of 370 hectares of well-managed, 20 year old pine plantation.
He said the six blue gum properties were all located in prime forest-growing areas of Western Victoria, close to the South Australian border.
He said all plantations were now being clearfelled with operations planned to conclude by the end of the year, allowing for the establishment of more than 760 hectares of new pine plantation in 2012.
Mr Kenseley said the conversion of blue gum plantation to pine had become a standard management practice.
“ForestrySA has gained considerable experience in recent years in the operational practices required for the efficient conversion of former blue gum plantation area to pine plantation,” he said.
“In the last three years we have successfully treated blue gum coppice in a number of locations in Wattle Range and Western Victoria and established more than 865 hectares to pine plantation.”
25 August, 2011
Building energy
scheme renovated
The national rating system for energy efficient buildings has been increased from five to six stars.
The six-star National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS) was launched in Sydney by the Chief Executive of the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, Lisa Corbyn.
The NSW Office administers NABERS, which is a national system.
Ms Corbyn said the extra star acknowledged that the Australian property industry was reaching a standard previously considered beyond world’s best practice.
She said NABERS included tools for Energy, Water, Waste and Indoor Environment.
“In the 10 years since the NSW Government introduced the first environmental performance rating for offices, Australian commercial buildings have become so much more efficient the time has come to introduce a sixth star,” Ms Corbyn said.
“This is a move that was called for by top performers in the commercial property industry who are already moving beyond NABERS five-star excellence towards a market-leading six star goal.”
She said office buildings using NABERS to measure and manage energy and water use improved greenhouse performance by an average11.5 per cent and water efficiency by 9 per cent.
The launch also saw the presentation of the first seventeen 5.5 and 6 star NABERS Energy and Water rating certificates to office buildings, tenancies, hotels and shopping centres in NSW that achieved “market leading performance and efficiency”.
Ms Corbyn said a further 30 buildings which had gone beyond five stars in water and emissions savings through purchasing GreenPower or recycled water in NSW would also receive 5.5 or 6 star certificates.
She said 60 per cent of Australian office space has been rated with NABERS Energy, 68 per cent of it in NSW.
She said around 5 per cent of rated buildings were currently achieving a 5 star rating which had been set as an aspirational target in 2000.
A 6-star rating would be awarded for ‘Market Leading’ performance, and would represent a 50 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions or water use from 5 stars.
More information about the system is available from this PS News link.
25 August, 2011
Railway safety
on right track
A new campaign promoting safety around railway lines has been launched to coincide with National Rail Safety Week, this week.
Road Safety Minister Tom Kenyon said the 1000 Horse Power campaign was aimed at raising awareness of the dangers associated with pedestrians trespassing on rail lines and level crossings.
“National Rail Safety Week provides the perfect platform for the community to understand how important it is to pay attention and make the right decisions when crossing rail lines,” Mr Kenyon said.
He said there had been no level crossing fatalities during the past 12 months however one female pedestrian had been killed recently.
“There’ve been more than 900 near misses at level crossings and rail lines in the metropolitan area over the past four years, including more than 80 so far this year,” Mr Kenyon said.
“These near misses are usually due to a combination of inattention, impatience, poor decision making and, at times, reckless behaviour by some people who are willing to put their lives at risk.”
He said the 1000 Horse Power tram and television advertising campaign sent a strong message to those taking a gamble and trespassing on rail lines.
“Trying to stop a moving train or tram is like trying to stop 1,000 horses, so it simply defies belief when you hear of people dicing with danger while attempting to beat them,” Mr Kenyon said.
He said up to $11 million over three years (2009-12) had been invested in engineering, education and enforcement around level crossings across the State.
Superintendent of police, Linda Fellows said that while enforcement was a key focus around rail safety, it was largely up to the community to make safe decisions at level crossings and obey the road rules.
“Human factors such as inattention, driver distraction, risk taking and disobeying warning signs have been identified as common contributors to vehicle-train level crossing crashes,” Superintendent Fellows said, “and the same applies to pedestrians who access level crossings, or for those who take a risk and trespass on the rail network.
The 6th annual National Rail Safety Week will run until Sunday 28 August 2011.
More information is available from this PS News link.
25 August, 2011
Trains off line
for upgrade
Trains on the Gawler line are to be suspended for a day this weekend in preparation for major works to begin in September.
The work is part of ongoing plans to electrify Adelaide’s rail network.
Minister for Transport, Patrick Conlon said the start of Stage Two of track works on the Gawler rail line was scheduled for Sunday 18 September with the upgrading of sections of Adelaide’s most used track between Mawson Interchange and Gawler Central.
Mr Conlon said the upgrade of the Gawler line was a vital part of the State and Federal Government’s $2.6 billion, decade-long project to improve South Australia’s public transport infrastructure.
He said that although there would be some obvious disruptions during the closure, everything possible was being done to minimise inconvenience for passengers.
“We will ensure all the relevant information is easily accessible and have been taking steps to make this transition as smooth as possible,” Mr Conlon said.
He said the opportunity would also be taken to upgrade existing stations along the line as well as build new ones at Elizabeth and Munno Para during the closure of the track.
“The revitalisation of the Gawler line will upgrade the track and key stations in preparation for new electric trains on the Adelaide transport network in 2013,” Mr Conlon said.
He said works to be undertaken in Stage Two included upgrading the base layer; removal of over 110,000 cubic metres of old ballast and soil; installing 80,000 new gauge-convertible concrete sleepers; installing over 110,000 cubic metres of new ballast; improving stormwater drainage; refurbishing or replacing up to 54 kilometres of rail; constructing new stations at Elizabeth and Munno Para; and upgrading Elizabeth South and Gawler Stations.
He said during the closure, bus services would be available at Gawler Central to transport passengers to Mawson Interchange.
Mr Conlon said the section of track between Mawson Interchange and Gawler Central was expected to re-open in April 2012.
He said train services between Adelaide and Salisbury would be suspended for the dy this Sunday (28 August) to prepare for the major works in September.
Normal train services will resume on Monday.
Details about the closure are available from this PS News link and the overall project this PS News link.
25 August, 2011
Carbon challenge
is pencilled in
A competition among designers and architects to come up with a zero-carbon house for less than $300,000 has attracted five entrants.
The winning house will be built at the Land Management Corporation’s green village, Lochiel Park, at Campbelltown.
Minister for Infrastructure, Patrick Conlon said the winning design would represent a showcase and industry benchmark of energy-efficient, environmental standards.
“The winning team will be faced with providing a house which minimises embodied and operating energy, and the lessons learned along the way will provide valuable insight into improving the affordability and environmental credentials of Adelaide homes well into the future,” Mr Conlon said.
He said the Zero Carbon Challenge, launched in June 2011 by LMC and the Integrated Design Commission (IDC) aimed to encourage industry to be innovative in designing and constructing a home with minimal environmental impact over its projected lifetime of about 50 years.
Chief Executive of the Land Management Corporation, Wayne Gibbings said the Zero Carbon Challenge had drawn a strong response from the architecture, development and construction sectors.
“The number of submissions and the strength of the individual teams are outstanding,” Mr Gibbings said.
South Australian Government Architect, Benjamin Hewett said the design phase would create the opportunity to push the limits on the latest techniques in sustainable and affordable building.
“This is an important initiative that recognises opportunities of collaboration across skills and disciplines to achieve best-practice outcomes,” Mr Hewett said.
Mr Conlon said existing homes in Lochiel Park were highly energy efficient with each house fitted with photovoltaic solar cells and, in addition to normal utilities, serviced by a non-potable water system.
He said the Zero Carbon Challenge would encourage competing teams to build on this leading-edge work and to push the boundaries of established construction practice.
He said the finalist teams – each as a minimum made up of architects, licensed builders and a student – included Team VIM, Collaborative Future, Energy Aspect Living, Sekisui House Services SA, and Swanbury Penglase.
Mr Gibbings said the finalists would be offered $10,000 to help cover the cost of preparing their final design and documentation.
He said the next stage of the competition, to be conducted through September and early October, would involve the five teams taking their initial concepts through to detailed design, costing and calculation of embodied and operating energy.
More information about the Zero Carbon Challenge is available from this PS News link.
25 August, 2011
Forestry art
in the frame
ForestrySA has embarked on a visual arts program by offering a new residency opportunity to South Australian artists.
The Agency hopes the initiative will “bring its forests to the people”.
Chief Executive of ForestrySA, Islay Robertson said the Artists in Residence initiative was being funded through ForestrySA’s Service Level Agreement with PIRSA Forestry, which provides financial support for a range of community programs on ForestrySA land.
Mr Robertson said applications from interested artists were now being sought.
He said the program was being organised in conjunction with Mount Gambier’s Riddoch Art Gallery in a bid to foster new relationships within the arts world and highlight positive forestry values to the wider public in a new way.
He said this was the first time ForestrySA had run such a program.
“We are aiming to increase awareness and broaden the appeal of ForestrySA forest reserves by giving artists time and facilities with which to develop new work, bringing forests to the people through visual arts,” Mr Robertson said.
He said the program would provide each of six selected artists with a $500 living allowance and accommodation at ForestrySA’s Thomas Hill Study Centre in the Mount Lofty Ranges from 21 to 28 November 2011.
He said during the residency, participants would be able to use their time to best suit their artistic practice, developing new work inspired by the picturesque forest reserves at Kuitpo and Mount Crawford.
Mr Robertson said new work generated by the artists as part of the program, could then be made available for exhibition at the Riddoch Art Gallery during 2012.
Director of the Riddoch Art Gallery, Lucia Pichler said she was pleased to partner ForestrySA in the project.
“This residency is a valuable opportunity for artists to become intimate with the forest environment, to create new work and have the opportunity to exhibit the work in our redeveloped gallery,” Ms Pichler said.
“It is a pleasure to work with ForestrySA on this project, building on our already existing relationship with ForestrySA as a result of the Wood Sculpture Competition – bringing art and forestry together.”
More information about the program and how to apply could be obtained by contacting Ms Pichler on (08) 8723 9566 or emailing luci...@riddochartgallery.org.au.
Applications close 30 September 2011.
25 August, 2011
New laws take aim at
criminal groups
A package of legal measures targeting organised crime and criminal groups has been announced by the Attorney-General, John Rau.
Mr Rau said the package provided new protection for victims, witnesses and jurors to combat the culture of intimidation used by criminal gangs.
He said four new pieces of legislation would attack criminal conduct head on and the package included a revised approach to anti-association legislation, which took into account recent High Court decisions.
He said under the new measures, known criminals would be prevented from associating with named people, banned from attending certain locations, have their driver licences and other licences revoked, and prevented from using electronic media.
“These measures will make life a lot more difficult for criminal gangs,” Mr Rau said.
“Not only have we found a way to disrupt the association of criminal gang members, the Government has also developed wide-ranging measures to damage the organisational structure of crime gangs, and increase the chances of securing convictions.”
He said the key measures would include new offences to criminalise participation in a criminal organisation, including a presumption that a person displaying the insignia of a criminal gang at the time of an offence was a participant in the gang; new conditions allowing for a presumption against bail to support vulnerable witnesses; and incentives to encourage informers.
He said other measures would include allowing frightened witnesses to give special evidence out of court in limited circumstances and options to prevent jury tampering by allowing prosecutors to apply for trials by a judge alone.
“Together, these measures give the Police new tools to interfere with the daily business of criminal gangs,” Mr Rau said.
“We are also giving witnesses and victims new levels of protection from intimidation, increasing the chances of putting criminals behind bars.”
Mr Rau said other measures would also be introduced to repair aspects of the Serious and Organised Crime (Control) Act that had been struck down by the High Court.
He said the Act would be amended to satisfy the Court’s issues with the anti-association measures, including removing the Attorney-General from the declaration process and placing the function with the Supreme Court.
Mr Rau said the anti-crime package would be introduced to Parliament as soon as possible.
25 August, 2011
Scammers cashing
in on tax returns
The Australian Taxation Commissioner has issued a public warning for people to watch out for tax-related scams at this time of year.
The Commissioner, Michael D’Ascenzo said typically the ATO saw a spike in scams each year around tax time.
“Anyone can be the target of a scam, and sometimes scams are so sophisticated and authentic in appearance that even the most alert can be caught out,” Mr D’Ascenzo said.
“Scammers can use a range of methods including phone calls, letters, text messages, emails, bogus websites, computer viruses and even false advertisements to try to fool people into giving away their money, passwords and personal details.”
He said once scammers had personal information they could steal a person’s identity and commit fraud against them, with potentially serious consequences such as the theft of funds.
“The ATO is aware of a number of scams currently in operation where scammers contact victims claiming to be from the ATO and offer them a tax refund in exchange for payment and their personal details,” he said.
“The ATO will never ask you to pay money to receive your tax refund or any special government payment and does not ask for personal information such your bank account details using email.”
Mr D’Ascenzo said the ATO also did not charge for the use of online tools such as e-tax.
“If something seems suspicious, too good to be true, asks you for personal details or cannot be verified by contacting an official source, it is likely to be a scam and you should report it,” he said.
“The ATO uses a range of intelligence to crack down on scammers including reports from the community.”
He said common scams reported to the ATO included cold-call emails or calls asking victims to pay money for or provide their personal details in order to obtain a tax refund; and fake e-tax notification emails encouraging victims to ‘click links’ to download other malware including malicious versions of e-tax.
Mr D’Ascenzo said more information was available from this PS News link.
25 August, 2011
Trade training
building up
A report into apprenticeships and traineeships across Australia has revealed that record numbers of South Australians are taking up the opportunity to improve their skills and complete work-related training courses.
Minister Assisting the Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education, Tom Kenyon said the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) report indicated there had been a record-high 22,800 commencements over the past 12 months to March 31 this year – an increase of 4.7 per cent.
Mr Kenyon said 5,900 of the commencements were for study for a higher-level qualification, a 34 per cent increase compared to the same period the year before.
“The report also shows a 10.7 per cent increase in the number of completions to 12,800 - more than double the national increase of 4.8 per cent over the same 12 month period,” Mr Kenyon said.
“This figure includes the highest number of completions on record for females (5,400), young people (6,500), technicians and trades workers (3,500) and higher level qualifications (2,600).”
Mr Kenyon said the new data showed that as at March 2011, the number of apprentices and trainees in training in South Australia increased by 2 per cent to 33,300 over the previous year.
“This includes the highest ever in-training figure (7,400) of those studying for a higher level qualification at Certificate IV and above – an increase of 23.3 per cent compared to 31 March 2010,” Mr Kenyon said.
“We have a robust training sector with more people than ever starting and completing training and an increase in the number of people in training,” he said.
“These encouraging figures reflect the importance of South Australian workers up-skilling and gaining higher level qualifications to build a skilled workforce for the future.”
25 August, 2011
Sports grants
are winners
Grants of up to $500,000 are on offer for community sport and recreation facilities in the latest round of funding from the Office for Recreation and Sport.
Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing , Tom Kenyon said $6.5 million was available to develop new or existing facilities through the Community Recreation and Sport Facilities Program.
“I urge any active recreation and sport clubs or organisations with sustainable facility proposals to apply for funding through this program,” Mr Kenyon said.
“Applicants can apply for up to $500,000 with all funding requests to be matched by the applicant through other funding sources or in-kind contributions.”
He said the program was crucial to assisting the sport and recreation industry in its quest for new or improved facilities needed to encourage healthy, active involvement in sport and recreation.
“There’s a strong demand for facilities funding and this increase allows us to provide a greater level of support for a range of activities and communities right across the State,” Mr Kenyon said.
He said in the last round, 69 significant facilities were developed or upgraded, including $150,000 to the Bordertown Bowling Club for its greens, $50,000 for new lights at Gladstone Oval and $100,000 to install a second grass hockey pitch at the Aldinga Sports Complex.
“Sport and active recreation clubs and associations, Local Government Authorities and school councils are eligible to apply for facility projects that meet a demonstrated community need and provide access to the general community,” Mr Kenyon said.
He said applications for the grants would close on 24 October 2011 and organisations considering applying for funding or with a future project in mind were encouraged to attend an information session at the Office for Recreation and Sport on 14 or 15 September from 6 to 7.30pm.
He said registration was essential.
“These sessions provide an opportunity to hear from a funding consultant and meet representatives from other clubs and sports, as well as share ideas about developments and programs,” Mr Kenyon said.
He said more information, including eligibility requirements or to register for an information session, was available from this PS News link.
25 August, 2011
Climate scientists
go with the grain
Scientists from the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) have been working with grain growers to plan for the impacts of climate change.
Principal Scientist for Climate Applications at SARDI, Peter Hayman said dryland farmers across the low rainfall zone of South Australia had always dealt with runs of good seasons and poor seasons, however the drought years of 2006 to 2009 proved extremely difficult for many farmers.
Dr Hayman said it would always be hard to say how much the seasonal conditions were due to natural variability and how much was due to human induced climate change.
“What is more useful is to use the run of seasons to learn about what parts of the farming system are vulnerable, what parts need strengthening and what parts need changing,” Dr Hayman said.
“Science can provide the components of a farming system such as new varieties and information on tillage and sowing times, but farmers and advisers are the ones who put the pieces together.”
He said long term climate projections for South Australia from CSIRO and the Bureau of Meteorology were for a warmer and drier future, but that did not mean every year would be a drought.
“There will still be good seasons and poor seasons, but we would expect the ratio of good seasons to poor seasons to be reduced.”
He said he and his SARDI team were working on a project funded as part of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s ‘Australia’s Farming Future’ which set out to prepare farmers for future climate change.
He said as part of the project, two half day workshops had been held in the Upper North and four on Eyre Peninsula.
Dr Hayman said farmers at the workshops were given the latest information from climate science for their region but most of the discussion focussed on what could be learnt from recent poor seasons.
He said in addition to improving management within the paddock, farmers and advisers pointed to the structure of farm businesses as an equally important area of focus.
Dr Hayman said the project highlighted the confidence that many farmers had in their ability to manage low rainfall and challenging soils as well as their concerns about rural communities and the future for young farmers.
25 August, 2011
And in Other News
Executive course
A four-day induction program for new executives has been announced by the South Australian Executive Service (SAES).
The program will be held in October and will be designed for executives with less than two year’s experience.
Topics will include Strategy and Policy, Commonwealth Relations, Financial Management, Cabinet Submissions and Implementation, and Performance Management and Evaluation.
More information from the Public Sector Management Division, 8204 9981.
Police recruits graduate
Twenty-four new police officers including five females and 19 males have graduated from two courses at the Fort Largs Police Academy.
Twenty-one members will be posted to Metropolitan Local Service Areas and three members will be posted to a Country Local Service Area.
A further 91 cadets comprising 28 female and 63 male cadets are still in training.
Record entries in food awards
A record number of entrants has been received for the 2011 SA Premier’s Food Industry Awards.
Deputy Chief Executive of the Department of Primary Industries and Resources, Don Plowman, said an ‘art of food’ themed dinner would toast the best of the State’s food industry when the awards were announced in November.
Finalists will be announced in October.
More information about the awards and details needed to obtain a ticket to the dinner are available at this PS News link.
Cockies census
Results from a recent census of vulnerable yellow-tailed black-cockatoos found a population of 2,030 across the Mount Lofty Ranges and Fleurieu Peninsula.
More than 70 community volunteers assisted with the count in May.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) initiated the census to collect information on the populations and distribution of the cockatoos and as a result of the 2011 census, will promote the planting of native food plants for the birds.
It will repeat the census exercise in 2012.
18 August, 2011
SafeWork review
in safe hands
SafeWork SA has established a working party to implement the key recommendations of an independent review into its performance.
The review of SafeWork SA’s inspection regime was conducted by Occupational Health and Safety expert Robin Stewart-Crompton and made 17 recommendations.
Minister for Industrial Relations Russell Wortley, said the Government wanted the recommendations implemented as soon as possible.
Mr Wortley said the State must protect the health and safety of all workers.
“Any workplace injury is unacceptable,” Mr Wortley said.
“Any workplace death is a tragedy.”
He said it was a fundamental right of all South Australians to expect that their loved ones would return from work each day, safe from harm.
“That is why the functions of SafeWork SA are of such importance to the community, and it is why the work undertaken by this agency needs to be of a very high standard,” Mr Wortley said.
He said the review was commissioned in line with recommendations from Coroner Mark Johns, arising from his inquest into the workplace death of teenage apprentice, Daniel Madeley in 2004.
He said the Coroner has been advised of the review’s findings.
“It is important that we take every opportunity to improve SafeWork SA’s effectiveness,” Mr Wortley said.
He said the review found that SafeWork SA was comparable in its operations, organisation and performance with most other Australian OHS regulators.
“South Australia is one of only two States whose performance has improved sufficiently to meet the national target of reducing workplace injury rates,” Mr Wortley said.
“However, the report highlights key areas in its inspection regime and its preparation of prosecution briefs that could benefit from improved processes.”
The Minister said SafeWork SA would work with the SafeWork SA Advisory Committee, which commissioned the review, to ensure that the improvements recommended would be implemented without delay.
The recommendations included that SafeWork SA collaborate with WorkCoverSA on a three-year data improvement plan; that it upgrade its own data management system; and that SafeWork SA itself prosecutes lower level offences rather than the Crown Solicitor’s Office.
The full report of the review can be accessed at this PS News link.
18 August, 2011
Union pays out
on underpays
The Public Service Association has issued guidance to its members receiving on-call allowances and overtime payments for work outside normal hours.
The union said it was aware that some members were not receiving the correct amounts of pay when working on call.
According to the PSA, the entitlements were $26.30 per night for staff rostered to be on-call during the night, ($27.00 per night from 1 October 2011); and $46.10 per day when rostered on Saturday, Sunday, a Public Holiday or any day not normally rostered on ($47.20 from 1 October 2011).
The Association said other entitlements included a minimum of three hours pay at overtime rates regardless of classification or salary level, when on-call and recalled to work.
It said overtime rates under the SA Public Sector Salaried Employees Interim Award, were calculated according to the follow criteria:
- Overtime Monday to Friday is to be paid at time and a half for the first three hours and double time hereafter;
- Overtime Saturday morning is at time and a half for the first three hours and double time thereafter;
- Overtime Saturday afternoon is at double time for all hours worked;
- Overtime Sunday is at double time for all hours worked; and
- Overtime Public Holidays is at double time and a half for all hours worked.
The PSA said that unless specifically agreed, staff members should not be rostered on-call more than seven days in any 14.
18 August, 2011
Libraries book
10-year funding
A 10-year funding agreement for public libraries has been signed by the Minister Assisting the Premier in the Arts, John Hill and the President of the Local Government Association, Mayor Kym McHugh.
Mr Hill said the agreement secured more than $185 million in State subsidies for public libraries.
He said Councils were expected to invest more than $570 million over the same period.
“South Australia will continue to have the highest per capita State funding to Councils for libraries,” Mr Hill said.
“A key element of the agreement is investment in technology, including the development of the One Library Management System which over the next three years will connect all of the State’s 134 public libraries.”
Mr Hill said South Australian communities loved their libraries and they were still the most visited public buildings in the nation.
“Libraries continue to evolve in their central role as a community hub, through traditional lending of books and materials, providing a public gateway to the internet and through their important literacy work with pre-schoolers,” Mr Hill said.
Mayor McHugh said in other States, Councils had no certain funding beyond annual budgets.
“The five-year agreements we’ve had in the past have created confidence to undertake significant system reforms,” Mayor McHugh said.
“The new 10 year agreement gives us all a long-term view which will generate even more innovations and customer benefits.”
18 August, 2011
NBN rollout to roll
over local laws
Proposed amendments to national telecommunications Determinations and Regulations to ease the passage of the National Broadband Network through the States have been released by the Commonwealth for public comment.
Federal Minister for Broadband and Communications, Senator Stephen Conroy said the proposed amendments to the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 1997 and the Telecommunications Regulations 2001 would facilitate the “timely and efficient” rollout of the National Broadband Network.
Senator Conroy said the proposed changes would enable NBN Co and operators of comparable broadband networks to make use of Commonwealth Regulations rather than State and Territory planning laws to connect premises; locate equipment in multi-unit buildings; and deploy new broadband infrastructure in streets.
“These changes, if adopted, would simplify the rollout of the NBN and enable consumers to enjoy the benefits of faster broadband services sooner,” Senator Conroy said.
“Importantly, existing protections under the Telecommunications Act would continue to apply.
“For example, carriers will still be subject to legal obligations to notify people of intended activity, minimise damage and restore work sites.”
He said the Federal Government understood local community sensitivities regarding possible changes and that was the reason comments were being sought on the draft amendments.
Senator Conroy said that in all instances the Government expected NBN Co to cause as little disturbance and inconvenience as practicable in rolling out its facilities, and for it to be restored within reasonable timeframes.
He said processes would be in place to resolve any concerns on the part of property owners and that such expectations were backed up by the legal requirements applying to carriers that used powers and immunities.
“This is an important step for the rollout of next generation broadband infrastructure,” Senator Conroy said.
“Community and industry participation is important and I encourage those interested to present their views.”
More information is available from this PS News link.
18 August, 2011
Cuts in waiting times
are dental as anything
Waiting times for public dental patients in the northern suburbs of Adelaide have been cut dramatically following the opening of the new Elizabeth GP Plus Health Care Centre.
Minister for Health, John Hill said since the Centre opened last October, more than 4,000 people had been treated in over 7,000 visits.
“Waiting times in the area have been reduced from 11 months in July last year to just 5.5 months this June,” Mr Hill said.
“Waiting lists at other clinics in the northern metropolitan area have also fallen in the past year.”
He said the waiting time for the Salisbury and Gawler Clinics had fallen from 21 months last July to 14 months in June this year.
“The Elizabeth GP Plus clinic has also played an important part in attracting dental staff, with two new dental graduates joining the SA Dental Service this year,” Mr Hill said.
“This improvement to public dental services is set to extend well beyond Elizabeth.”
The Minister said the SA Dental Service was about to start general anaesthetic services at the Gawler Hospital for children with severe dental disease – previously only available at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital.
“In addition, the recently opened Marion GP Plus has 24 dental chairs, the new Dental Clinic in the Noarlunga GP Plus Super Clinic will have 24 dental chairs and Modbury GP Plus Super Clinic will have 14 chairs,” Mr Hill said.
“Since 2002, average waiting times for public dental care have been reduced from over 4 years to 17 months.”
18 August, 2011
Electoral Commission
has edge on boundaries
The Australian Electoral Commission’s Redistribution Committee for South Australia has published its proposed changes to the electoral boundaries of the State’s 11 federal divisions.
The mandatory 7-year review of boundaries began in January this year.
Chair of the Redistribution Committee and Electoral Commissioner, Ed Killesteyn said the Committee was required by legislation to redraw the boundaries to ensure, as far as practicable that the number of electors in each division was no more than 3.5 per cent above or below the State’s average enrolment of 104,752 electors.
Mr Killesteyn said the Committee began its task when six of the 11 divisions fell outside the acceptable 3.5 per cent range.
He said as a result, the status quo could not be maintained.
“Within the numerical framework, the Committee took into consideration suggestions received from the public, communities of interest, communication and transport links, physical features and the current federal boundaries, when making its proposal,” Mr Killesteyn said.
He said the Committee adopted the broad approach of supplementing divisions with low enrolment with electors from adjacent divisions which had higher enrolment.
He said three divisions, Makin, Boothby and Hindmarsh, were below the acceptable projected enrolment range, while the Division of Sturt just met the minimum requirement.
Another three divisions, Port Adelaide, Barker and Kingston, exceeded the acceptable range,
Mr Killesteyn said while the three divisions adjoining Barker (Mayo, Wakefield and Grey) were currently within the specified numerical range, at least one needed to change as a consequence of Barker having to lose electors.
He said the consultative nature of the redistribution process meant that individuals and organisations could now lodge objections to the Committee’s proposed redistribution.
He said written objections must be lodged with the Australian Electoral Commission by 9 September 2011 and full details of the Redistribution Committee’s proposal, including maps, were available from this PS News link.
18 August, 2011
University makes call
on phone technology
The University of South Australia has launched new mobile phone technology that provides students with direct access to information about their programs, assignments, results and facilities at the click of a button.
Director of UniSA Information Strategy and Technology Services (ISTS), Paul Sherlock said the newly-launched mobile portal allows students to use their smartphones to view their results as soon as they are published and includes class information, exam timetables, current assignments and their due dates.
Mr Sherlock said there was also a security speed dial button for student safety, library information, campus maps, contacts and directions to buildings.
He said the mobile student portal complemented the UniSA’s PC Finder application which was released recently for iPhone, iPad and Android devices.
Mr Sherlock said the new technology was designed to increase convenience for students and to enhance their learning experience.
“Mobile devices are a big part of students’ daily lives,” Mr Sherlock said.
“It’s how they communicate and interact, and this will allow them to communicate and interact as part of their student experience at the University of South Australia.”
He said the portal had all the information students needed at their fingertips when they’re on the move, including any important information or alerts they might need.
“It tells them which classes they have today and their current assignments and results, which appear for around 14 days after they have come out.
“It’s tailored specifically to each student to give them the most relevant information.”
Mr Sherlock said the PC Finder allowed students to find the computing equipment they needed quickly, which saved them time when they were on campus.
“It uses the smartphone GPS to find the closest available computer on campus and provides information about opening hours, the hardware and software available on the computer, printer facilities and how to get there.
“This is just one part of a major program of investment in information technology to support students.”
The application is available to download free of charge from the iPhone App Store and the Android Market and more information is available from this PS News link.
18 August, 2011
Writing on the wall
for graffiti artists
Tough new graffiti laws that could see offenders lose their drivers’ licences or have their Learner or P-plates extended have been announced by the Attorney-General, John Rau.
Mr Rau said measures included in the laws could also see further restrictions on the sale and supply of graffiti implements.
He said courts would be given new options when sentencing offenders for graffiti offences, including ordering him or her to take part in graffiti clean-up programs (in addition to the current power to order an offender to remove the graffiti that was the subject of the offence); and ordering the offender to pay reasonable costs to a person who removes his or her graffiti.
Mr Rau said the maximum penalties for graffiti vandalism would be doubled to $5,000 or imprisonment for 12 months.
He said a range of other penalties for graffiti-related offences will also be increased significantly.
“The community clearly wants a strengthening of anti-graffiti measures, and this package delivers,” Mr Rau said.
“Graffiti vandalism causes great distress in the community: it costs businesses, individuals and government a great deal of time and money to clean it up, and it creates negative perceptions in areas targeted by vandals.”
He said the proposed amendments to the Graffiti Control Act 2001 included creating a new aggravated offence for marking graffiti on memorials, cemeteries or places of worship and introducing a new offence of supplying a spray paint can to a minor, complementing the existing ban on the sale of spray paint cans to minors.
Other amendments included giving police new powers to confiscate prescribed graffiti implements from a person in a public place and introducing a new offence of advertising a prescribed graffiti implement in a manner that was likely to incite or promote unlawful graffiti.
“The increased penalties, new offences, widened police powers and sentencing options will be a significant deterrent to potential graffiti offenders,” Mr Rau said.
“If they do make the foolish decision to offend, they will face serious consequences.”
Mr Rau said the proposed amendments were based on the results of a six-week public consultation earlier this year.
He said the amendments would be introduced into Parliament as soon as possible.
18 August, 2011
Food labelling rules
on the table
Public comment has been invited on draft Food Variation Regulations relating to kilojoule labelling on fast food menu boards.
Minister for Health, John Hill has invited feedback on the draft Food Variation Regulations 2011 as part of a four week public consultation exercise.
“We want food chains with 20 or more outlets in SA, or 50 or more nationally, to display the kilojoule content of food items at the point of sale,” Mr Hill said.
“This information would be up on menu boards, menus and leaflets for fast food restaurants and pizza, bakery, ice-cream and coffee chains.”
He said feedback on the proposals and possible exemptions was now being sought from food outlets, NGOs, public health and professional organisations, industry representatives and the community.
“It can sometimes be hard to make the best choice when you’re buying food and these changes will give simple information to help people make their decision.” Mr Hill said.
Chief Executive of the Heart Foundation, Dr Amanda Rischbieth said the Foundation strongly support the move.
“This will help address the growing prevalence of diet-related conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” Dr Rischbieth said.
“The Heart Foundation has been very keen for menu labelling at fast food outlets to be adopted nationally and we applaud Minister Hill for taking this initiative in South Australia.”
Dr Rischbieth said the Hearth Foundation hoped that the initiative would further encourage fast food outlets to improve the food they were serving by using healthier oils, removing salt from their dishes and reducing kilojoule content.
“Labelling on menus is just one part of the solution,” Dr Rischbieth said, “but it is an important step.”
Mr Hill said the proposed regulations were based on similar legislation introduced in NSW earlier this year and similar initiatives were also in place in the United States and the United Kingdom.
He said the proposed Regulations would be introduced in SA in 2012, with a 12 month implementation phase, to provide ample time for businesses to comply.
The draft Regulations and explanatory paper can be accessed at this PS News link.
18 August, 2011
Minister warns of
scammers in the works
The number of scams reported to Consumer and Business Services last year was down on the year before but their sophistication was up according to the Minster for Consumer Affairs, Gail Gago.
Ms Gago said consumers should be wary of scammers who were becoming more sophisticated than ever before.
“Social media has played a role in enabling scammers to disguise themselves as legitimate companies or individuals to persuade victims to hand over money or personal details,” Ms Gago said.
“Scammers then use these details for fraudulent purposes, and can often leave consumers out of pocket.”
She said with more consumers purchasing goods online there was now a greater risk that a consumer could become a victim of identity theft.
“Scammers use this as an opportunity to offer non-existent goods ranging from puppy dogs to motor vehicles to con unsuspecting customers,” Ms Gago said.
She said the top five scams reported in South Australia for the last financial year included computer (PC) virus checks, “Nigerian” and similar scams, overseas lotteries, false billing (blowing), and employment scams.
She said consumers should never give out credit card, online account information or other personal details over the phone to people they don’t know, and always be cautious if someone was asking them to do so.
“Remember that scammers target all sorts of people, and they can be difficult to spot as they often appear as genuine business people,” Ms Gago said.
“If something seems too good to be true, it most likely is.”
She urged consumers to report any suspected scam to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) via its SCAMwatch website this PS News link or call the information line on 1300 302 502.
18 August, 2011
Tourism tied down at
Kangaroo Island
A $3 million upgrade of tourist facilities on Kangaroo Island is expected to attract eco-tourists from all over Australia and around the world.
Announced by the Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Anthony Albanese, the upgrade was funded jointly by the Commonwealth Government and the Kangaroo Island Council with the aim of making the island a ‘must-see’ holiday destination.
Mr Albanese said the upgrades would significantly improve the range and quality of facilities available, helping to increase the number of visitors to Kangaroo Island and encouraging them to stay for longer periods.
He said the Kangaroo Island Community Camping and Day Visitor Sites Upgrade project had received over $2.6 million from the Australian Government’s Infrastructure Employment Projects initiative and more than $300,000 from the Kangaroo Island Council and local community.
“The work involved extensive landscaping and the installation of wind-powered dry toilets, gas powered barbeques, solar lighting, waste recycling options, shaded shelters with water tanks, parking and camping areas and environmentally sensitive fencing and control barriers,” Mr Albanese said.
“Work has taken place at Vivonne Bay, Hanson Bay, Western River, American River, Snellings Beach, Browns Beach, Muston Lookout, Emu Bay, Duck Lagoon, Stokes Bay, Penneshaw and Kingscote.”
He said four full time jobs and 30 short term jobs were created during the construction, with three ongoing maintenance positions.
“This is a beautiful part of Australia and the completion of the upgrade will provide ongoing benefits for residents and local businesses as well as preserving the natural beauty of the island for years to come,” Mr Albanese said.
18 August, 2011
Artists in frame for
LMC development
The Land Management Corporation is working with Arts SA to attract members of the Adelaide arts scene to the Bowden Urban Village development.
The LMC would like to see the artists turn a former warehouse into a thriving creative hub.
Minister for Infrastructure, Patrick Conlon said a key focus of the $1 billion Bowden Urban Village project was to integrate the arts community into what will be one of the city’s most exciting developments in years.
“The Bowden Urban Village precinct will be a vibrant mix of higher density housing with a diverse spread of office, retail and public space amenities and we believe having the arts community closely involved will enhance the village’s cosmopolitan buzz,” Mr Conlon said.
“The site will eventually include over 2,400 dwellings for over 3,500 people and a healthy arts culture will help ensure the precinct is an appealing and colourful place to live, work and relax.”
Mr Conlon said the Land Management Corporation was collaborating with Arts SA to reach as many potential members of the Adelaide arts scene as possible.
He said the Bowden Urban Village project site was already home to youth arts company Cirkidz, which earlier this year took up residency in a vacant building in Gibson Street.
“Cirkidz brings a real sense of performance and fun to the area and we are keen to bolster this by transforming Building 9a into a publicly accessible arts hub with a variety of activities and uses,” Mr Conlon said.
“The site could include design studios, gallery exhibitions, art classes and workshops, as well as some associated market activity and a rehearsal and performance space.”
Mr Conlon said submissions to register an interest to occupy Building 9a, 26 Sixth Street close on 6 September 2011.
More information was available from this PS News link.
18 August, 2011
Science week
put to the test
Scientists across South Australia are having a busy time celebrating National Science Week with a line-up of more than 50 special events.
Chief Executive of the Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology, Raymond Garrand said National Science Week, which runs to 21 August, gave all South Australians the chance to be involved in activities that showcased and promoted scientific endeavour in the State.
“We have outstanding scientists and researchers in South Australia and our future prosperity also depends on fostering a new generation of creative scientists and researchers,” Mr Garrand said.
“Lifting the profile of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) is critical to that endeavour.”
Mr Garrand said nominations were now open for the 2011 Science Excellence Awards - South Australia’s premier science event.
He said the awards showcased the success of the State’s scientists, researchers, PhD students and STEM educators.
“This forms part of a broader strategy to improve STEM skills across all levels of education, training and the workplace,” Mr Garrand said.
“National Science Week is a key initiative to raise the profile of STEM and it continues to go from strength to strength.”
Mr Garrand said some of the other innovative science experiences in this year’s program included the RiAUS Great Big Science Read which was run in partnership with SA Public Libraries Services, and the Tall Poppy Awards presentation on 25 August at Government House to acknowledge excellence in early-career scientists.
Further information about the 2011 Science Excellence Awards was available from this PS News link and more information about National Science Week from this PS News link.
18 August, 2011
DENR wild over
wildlife feeding
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has issued a warning not to feed native animals in the wild.
Manager of DENR’s Animal Welfare Unit, Deb Kelly said it might seem kind to feed wild native animals and birds, but it was often not in their best interests.
“What we’re asking people to do is provide habitat, not food, for our native species,” Dr Kelly said.
“Australian natives have specialised diets, so processed foods such as bread and hot chips do not provide appropriate nutrition and can cause serious health problems.”
She said when native animals were fed, or ate food discarded on the ground or in rubbish bins, they became less experienced at foraging for their natural food.
“In a worst case scenario, we can end up making them dependent on us.
“This can lead to them losing their natural fear of humans, as well as displaying aggression as they compete for food.”
Dr Kelly said feeding wildlife could lead to unnatural increases in the populations of some species, such as can already be seen with the Australian white ibis, the little raven and the silver gull.
“These species have become adept at scavenging for food and are becoming increasingly common in public areas,” Dr Kelly said.
“Little ravens and silver gulls are commonly seen loitering around shopping centre car parks, waste bins and outdoor eating areas, scavenging food.
“Areas like this would never be able to support so many of these birds if they were eating their natural diet.”
18 August, 2011
Steady support for
disability scheme
Treasurer Jack Snelling has given in-principle support to the National Disability Insurance Scheme announced by the Federal Government last week.
Mr Snelling said the Government would make sure that any new national scheme would deliver the best possible deal for South Australians with a disability.
“The concept of the NDIS would involve a fundamental change in the way disability services are provided, managed and funded,” Mr Snelling said.
“We support in-principle the concept of a national scheme and the consistency it would provide however we want to make sure that if the State Government is making a contribution to the NDIS, South Australians with a disability are being properly looked after.”
Mr Snelling said the South Australian Government also needed further clarity about the Budget impact for the state, ensuring that it was no worse off under any future arrangements.
“We deliver services to a higher proportion of our disability population than other states and we need to see how the NDIS would impact on that,” Mr Snelling said.
Mr Snelling said the Government also supported in-principle a National Injury Insurance Scheme however further work would need to be done on how that could impact on Compulsory Third Party (CTP) motor insurance premiums.
“Once we have properly considered the finer detail of the proposal we will outline our position further,” Mr Snelling said.
“We will continue close discussions with the Commonwealth on the NDIS and welcome the establishment of a COAG Select Council of Ministers to lead reform of this area at COAG next month.”
18 August, 2011
More hands needed for
Basin assessment
A long-term study of Lake Eyre Basin rivers is to be stepped up with the Lake Eyre Basin Ministerial Forum agreeing to invite qualified organisations to partner with Government agencies to perform assessments over at least three years.
The move was made at a recent meeting of the Forum which includes representatives from South Australia, the Northern Territory, Queensland and the Commonwealth.
Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and Urban Water, Senator Don Farrell said a key decision of the Forum continued support for the Lake Eyre Basin Rivers Assessment, which Ministers had inaugurated last year.
Senator Farrell said the assessment would scientifically monitor the condition of the rivers and catchments in the Lake Eyre Basin.
“Ministers agreed to invite interested research institutions, regional bodies, non-government organisations and industry players to partner with government agencies,” Senator Farrell said.
“Through these partnerships, the design, collection, analysis and interpretation of river health data would be carried out on a on a cost-recovery basis.”
Senator Farrell said a key element of the proposed partnerships was the participation of Aboriginal and other community members in the monitoring work.
“Ministers also agreed to continue the development of a Lake Eyre Basin Aboriginal Map and companion booklet to communicate the richness, diversity and vibrancy of Aboriginal culture across the Basin,” Senator Farrell said.
Further information on the Lake Eyre Basin Ministerial Forum and its outcomes was available from this PS News link.
18 August, 2011
Battling students win
Long Tan bursaries
Four South Australian students have been successful in winning $9,000 Long Tan Bursaries awarded by the Federal Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
Federal Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon said the Long Tan Bursary Scheme provided eligible children of Vietnam war veterans with financial assistance to help gain the qualifications and skills they needed to pursue their chosen career.
“I am pleased to congratulate these exceptional young people on their hard work and commitment to their education that has seen them selected to receive a Long Tan Bursary,” Mr Snowdon said.
He said more than 400 children of Vietnam veterans had received a bursary since the scheme was first introduced in 2000 and 56 Long Tan Bursaries would be awarded to students across Australia in 2011 with a total value of more than $500,000.
Mr Snowdon said the financial assistance would help cover the costs associated with post-secondary education including university courses and vocationally-oriented courses, such as those offered by TAFE institutions, business colleges and art schools.
He said the South Australian recipients included Jessica Doel Henshall from Coobowie who was studying a Bachelor of Psychological Science at the University of Adelaide, and Laura Kitschke from Enfield who was studying a Bachelor of Social Sciences (Human Services) and a Bachelor of Psychological Sciences at the University of South Australia.
Mr Snowdon said applications for each academic year opened on Vietnam Veterans’ Day, 18 August, and closed on 31 October. More information was available from this PS News link.
18 August, 2011
And in Other News...
DFC goes into print
The Department for Families and Communities has launched a new bi-annual publication profiling innovation and development across the Department.
Feature magazine will allow the Department to share some promising programs, projects and initiatives that support the community services sector in South Australia.
The theme of the first edition is Housing in the 21st Century...connecting to opportunity.
Copies of Feature can be accessed at this PS News link.
Cricketers bat for road safety
The Metropolitan Fire Service’s Road Awareness Program (RAP) has attracted the participation of future cricketing greats at the Australian Cricketers’ Association’s induction camp in Melbourne.
The nation’s newest professional cricketers have been encouraged by the MFS to become leaders in road safety.
South Australian players attending the induction camp include Ben Dougall, Elliott Opie and Tom Thornton.
Prints planted at Gardens
An exhibition of prints entitled Djalkiri - We are standing on their names – Blue Mud Bay has opened at the Adelaide Botanic Gardens.
The exhibition was created through a cross-cultural and creative exchange between artists across Australia and will feature at the Museum of Economic Botany until November.
State records record workers
The latest Labour Force figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows 826,400 South Australians in work in July, the highest number ever.
The number of people in full time work, in trend terms in July also increased to 555,300.
According to the Bureau, the youth unemployment rate dropped by 4.9 percentage points in July to 15.1 per cent – six percentage points below the national average of 21.1 per cent, and the second lowest of all the States.
Multicultural Awards open
Nominations are now open for the Governor’s Multicultural Awards.
The 2011 Awards recognise individuals and organisations that have made outstanding contributions to multiculturalism in SA.
Categories include the Arts and Culture Award, Community Sector Award, Media Award, Private Sector Award, Public Sector Award, Volunteer Award, Youth Award, and Outstanding Individual Achievement Award.
Nominations close 31 October 2011 and winners will be announced in February 2012.
Nomination forms are available from this PS News link.
11 August, 2011
Thousands gain from
workplace training
New training places for up to 23,000 workers have been announced by the Minister Assisting the Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education, Tom Kenyon.
Mr Kenyon said the new training places, worth $41 million, had prompted a strong response from local employers, industry bodies, businesses and registered training organisations applying for training places through the Productivity Places Program (PPP) for Existing Workers.
He said 84 per cent of proposed qualifications were for Certificate IV courses and above.
“The main industry sectors to benefit through this round include health and community services, education and training, and mining, engineering and Defence,” Mr Kenyon said.
“This allocation will fund 3,166 nationally endorsed training places at Certificate III level; 9,876 at Certificate IV level, 6,027 at Diploma level, and 4,026 at Advanced Diploma level across a range of high skills demand industries.”
He said the PPP for Existing Workers was worth about $117 million over four years and would provide 39,000 training places across the State by mid 2012.
He said successful funding proposals must have demonstrated a strong partnership between training providers, employers and industry.
Minister for Defence Industries, Kevin Foley said more than 2,300 new training places worth $4.5 million had been allocated to the Defence Teaming Centre through the PPP.
“The successful applicants include defence industry prime contractors, such as BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin Australia, Raytheon Australia Pty Ltd, and ASC AWD Shipbuilder Pty Ltd and members of their supply chains,” Mr Foley said.
“Ensuring that these major players in South Australia’s defence industries have access to the skilled workers they require will allow the continued expansion of this key sector of our State’s economy.”
11 August, 2011
Red light shock for
disqualified drivers
Up to 4,000 drivers are to be disqualified from driving on South Australian roads and another 10,700 will receive demerit points for motoring offences committed in 2009 and 2010.
The drivers are being notified now due to processing errors in the Courts Administration Authority (CAA).
The reigning winner of the 2011 Safe Work Australia Award, the CAA has suffered a computer glitch which failed to properly process the disqualifications. The problem was discovered last week.
Minister for Road Safety, Tom Kenyon said the full extent of the computer error only became known following a detailed audit and investigation of data provided to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles from the CAA.
Mr Kenyon said the drivers who hadn’t been notified of their penalties were those who applied to the courts between July 2009 and June 2010 seeking hardship relief and an extended period to pay their fines.
“The fault in the Courts Administration Authority’s computer system meant this information wasn’t automatically processed and forwarded to the Registrar,” Mr Kenyon said.
He said more than 4,000 offenders didn’t receive their formal disqualification notices from the Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure and a further 10,700 didn’t receive demerit point warning notices.
“It’s expected the 2010/11 figures will show a similar pattern,” Mr Kenyon said.
“Under the Motor Vehicles Act, after a court finalises an offence, the CAA is required to notify the Registrar of Motor Vehicles of the offence so that he can formally update the licence record.
“The CAA upgraded their computer system in 2009 and an error in the new system meant that notifications were not received by the Registrar, so offences and demerit points were not recorded against a driver’s licence record from July of that year.”
Mr Kenyon said under the Motor Vehicles Act, the Registrar had no discretion to vary a disqualification order.
“There’s clearly a significant backlog due to the computer error and the notifications are being processed as quickly as possible,” Mr Kenyon said.
“I’ve directed the Department to form a permanent working group with the police and the Authority to review any discrepancies that are detected in the future,” the Minister said.
11 August, 2011
Police open gates to
detention centres
An agreement that would see local police involved in security at immigration detention centres is being developed by the Federal Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).
The Department is leading preparations for a Memorandum of Understanding to be signed by police and emergency services around the country, following a series of workshops.
The matter was raised by the National Standing Council on Police and Emergency Management (SCPEM) after unrest at a number of detention centres.
The Minister for Police and Emergency Services in NSW, Michael Gallacher, said the workshops reviewed existing incident management planning for each immigration detention facility owned by the Commonwealth and comprised representatives of DIAC, the Australian Federal Police, State and Territory Police and the contractor, Serco.
“Following the riots at the Villawood (NSW) Detention centre on 20 April 2011, it became clear these arrangements needed to be settled as a matter of urgency,” Mr Gallacher said.
“Law enforcement agencies have been concerned for some time about the lack of clarity regarding their powers, responsibilities and liabilities in relation to immigration detention centres across Australia.”
He said the Memorandum of Understanding was being developed to incorporate the new arrangements and was in response to issues raised during the workshops.
He said it would establish agency responsibility between DIAC, the direct service provider (currently Serco), AFP and the relevant State or Territory Police Force.
“DIAC will also chair a working group of representatives from each jurisdiction to examine whether there are any legislative impediments to the exercise of State and Territory police powers at immigration detention facilities,” Mr Gallacher said.
“The outcomes of the working group will be reported back to SCPEM out of session.”
11 August, 2011
Crime paying off for
OCSAR website
The Office of Crime Statistics and Research (OCSAR) has launched a revamped and improved Crime Mapper website with a more accessible and easy-to-use interface.
Attorney-General John Rau announced the new Crime Mapper saying it would provide communities with access to clear, accessible and up-to-date crime statistics for their areas.
Mr Rau said the new version of Crime Mapper included statistics from 2005 to 2009, with older material still available on the previous Crime Mapper website.
“The new website is easier to use and has crime statistics arranged by Local Government Area,” Mr Rau said.
“The new version also has the advantage of providing five-year trend data for each LGA on a single page.”
He said the overall picture on crime statistics showed a steady and continuing drop in crime since 2002.
He said the fall in crime rates was testament to the work of the SA Police and the vigilance of the South Australian community.
Mr Rau said Crime Mapper statistics showed that the overall number of offences dropped by 20 per cent between 2005 and 2009.
“While we must always remain vigilant, the community can feel assured that we can make significant gains in the fight against crime with the right approach and resources,” the Attorney-General said.
To view the new Crime Mapper website visit this PS News link.
11 August, 2011
Double the desal
in water pipeline
The Adelaide Desalination Plant is to be expanded from 50 gigalitres to 100 in a joint funding program with the Commonwealth.
Minister for Water, Paul Caica said the Federal funding support would provide a substantial benefit for South Australia’s security of domestic supply while also supplying environmental benefits.
Mr Caica said the upgraded desal plant would provide South Australia with a guaranteed water supply.
“Expanding the desalination plant is critical to providing Adelaide’s increasing population with a secure drinking water supply in a future affected by a changing climate,” Mr Caica said.
“A more secure water source for Adelaide also supports the whole community through business investment and jobs.”
He said the agreement with the Commonwealth balanced the need to reduce reliance on the River Murray while providing a secure and sustainable supply for South Australia’s water users.
Mr Caica said environmental water delivery and use would be confirmed by the Murray Darling Basin Authority and would be open and publicly reported on.
He said once an appropriate accounting methodology had been agreed with the MDBA, the environmental water would be available to offset any sustainable diversion limit that may be established by the Basin Plan for South Australia.
Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and Urban Water, Senator Don Farrell said the Australian Government would provide $228 million towards the expansion, as part of its total commitment of $328 million to the plant.
“The agreement ensures a six gigalitre environmental water entitlement for the River Murray every year, and will also provide between 12 and 24 gigalitres as an environmental allocation during favourable years—capped at 120 gigalitres over a 10 year rolling period,” Senator Farrell said.
“It’s a landmark step in creating a sustainable future for Adelaide—balancing the needs of a growing population and the need to secure environmental flows for the iconic River Murray.”
11 August, 2011
Indigenous health
on the mend
A new report into Indigenous health has found significant improvements according to the Federal Minister responsible, Warren Snowdon.
Mr Snowdon said the report was the third biennial report from Australia’s State and Federal Ministers for Health against the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Performance Framework.
“The findings in the report show encouraging improvements in Indigenous health,” Mr Snowdon said.
“While this is good news, there is still a long way to go to close the gap between Indigenous health outcomes and those of the general population.”
He said the report highlighted areas where improvements still needed to be made, including chronic diseases and mortality rates which continued to grow for cancer and kidney disease.
He said it also showed no improvement in the instance of diseases such as diabetes.
Mr Snowdon said the series of reports was a valuable way to monitor progress in closing the gap in Indigenous health, and to track the factors that underpinned health outcomes.
“Further findings in the report show a 29 per cent decline in deaths due to circulatory disease - the leading cause of death for Indigenous Australians; and a 55 per cent decline in infant mortality rates, an increase in antenatal care, and greater immunisation coverage for children,” he said.
“Other improvements included a small but significant decrease in smoking rates, an increase in episodes of care by Indigenous primary healthcare services, and a narrowing of the gap for all-cause mortality and avoidable mortality.”
He said the report highlighted other factors that affected a person’s health such as education and employment; overcrowding in housing; contact with the criminal justice system; and the fact that almost half of all Indigenous Australians were in the bottom 20 per cent of equivalent household incomes.
Mr Snowdon said access to health care was also an important issue.
Copies of the report and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Performance Framework are available at this PS News link.
11 August, 2011
Visitors gear up
for driving tips
A new strategy to remind overseas visitors of South Australia’s road rules has been announced by the Minister for Road Safety, Tom Kenyon.
Mr Kenyon said important new steps were being taken to remind international drivers of the Australian road rules before they take to the State’s roads.
“We’ve introduced a series of stickers to be placed inside hire cars and point-of-sale material to remind international drivers to keep to the left hand side of the road,” Mr Kenyon said.
“Unfortunately, we’ve had five fatal crashes - two last year and three this year - involving international drivers in SA, compared to only one in the previous 10 years.”
“Consequently, we’ve been working with the rental car industry to look at ways in which basic information about driving in Australia can be further promoted.”
Mr Kenyon said ‘Drive On Left in Australia’ windscreen stickers, rear-vision mirror stickers, posters, counter cards and brochures were being sent to hire car companies, visitor information centres and Service SA centres across the State.
He said the RAA would also make the material available at their Adelaide retail branch outlets.
“Our discussions with hire car companies and the tourism industry have been very positive with strong support for this package of information,” Mr Kenyon said.
“These changes will improve driver awareness for overseas drivers.”
“We welcome travellers from overseas and we want them to enjoy all our State has to offer, but more importantly, we want them to share the road safely with South Australians.”
Mr Kenyon said there were more than 4,900 registered hire vehicles in the State, with many others coming into SA from interstate.
“We want to provide international drivers with as much information as possible to reinforce the need for them to be aware of our basic road rules, particularly the need to drive on the left hand side of the road,” Mr Kenyon said.
“I’ve written to Ministers in all States urging them to follow our lead and make this road safety material available in hire cars and at rental offices across the nation.”
Mr Kenyon said he was also considering rolling out more roadside signage in tourist “hot spots” that reminded drivers to “Drive on Left in Australia”.
More information was available from this PS News link.
11 August, 2011
Truck drivers hit
the cyberhighway
Heavy vehicle operators have embraced the Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure’s online permit system with the numbers using the scheme growing at a rapid rate.
According to DTEI’s General Manager of Transport Safety Regulation, Trent Rusby just over a third of all applications are now being submitted online, despite the scheme only being introduced in March.
“In March this year, 10 per cent of all oversize and overmass vehicle permit applications received were submitted via the online permits system,” Mr Rusby said.
“This then doubled in April and has continued to grow to just over a third of all applications.”
Mr Rusby said the rise in use of ePermits was matched by the positive feedback received about the new system.
“The system is outstanding and far more efficient than doing them manually,” he said, “saving a lot of time and reducing the administration burden for operators.”
Mr Rusby said the ePermit system was part of a Red Tape Reduction initiative which was designed to improve service delivery to the heavy vehicle industry.
“With a large number of permits issued every year, the online permit system is the first stage of an ongoing reform plan,” he said.
“DTEI is continuing to work on new initiatives to streamline the application process, including automated structural assessments.”
He said the online permit system allowed operators to Submit a Form A – vehicle listing application (self propelled and trailing unit); Submit a Form B – application for a permit; or Submit a Form C – application for permit renewal.
He said the system also allowed operators to view the status of submitted permits; search and view permit history; find vehicles listed in the permit system; copy previous permit details into a new permit application; reprint a current permit; and pay for permit transactions and print receipts.
The ePermit system was available at this PS News link.
11 August, 2011
Solar advice shines
for consumers
Consumers buying into the solar energy market have been advised not to sign contracts in haste.
Commissioner for Consumer Affairs, Paul White said South Australia had recently seen a spike in people entering contracts with solar companies to take advantage of high installation rebates and ‘feed-in’ tariffs.
“The tariff reduces from 44 cents to 16 cents per kilowatt from 1 October 2011, so demand for solar contracts appears to have increased to meet the deadline,” Mr White said.
“Consumers should not use the deadline to hastily enter into contracts with solar companies in order to receive the higher benefits.”
He said he was aware there were solar companies asking for deposits as high as 70 per cent before installation occurs.
“Outlaying several thousand dollars upfront can be risky for the consumer if the installer cannot supply or becomes insolvent,” Mr White said.
“While under Australian Consumer Law it is not illegal to pay high deposits, Consumer and Business Services recommends that consumers should obtain at least three quotes and be careful not to pay too much for a deposit.”
Mr White said for building work valued at over $12,000, consumers should pay a deposit of up to $1,000 under the Building Work Contractors Act 1995.
“Consumers should also be diligent in checking that their potential solar installer has either a Building Work Contractors Licence or an Electrical Contractors Licence and ask to see their trader’s licence card,” Mr White said.
“Alternatively you can search the licensed contractors’ register on the Consumer and
Business Services website for a list of appropriately licensed installers.”
Mr White said victims of unlicensed work could often suffer financial loss and poor quality work.
“Suspect unlicensed solar installers should immediately be reported to Consumer and
Business Services,” Mr White said.
To report concerns about suspected unlicensed solar installers, or to lodge a complaint, contact Consumer and Business Services on 131 882 or visit this PS News link.
11 August, 2011
Bushfire meeting
sparks agreement
A new national strategy to prevent bushfire arson has been agreed between State and Territory Governments and the Commonwealth.
Federal Attorney-General, Robert McClelland said the National Strategy for the Prevention of Bushfire Arson was agreed upon by the Ministers for Emergency Management and Police from all Australian jurisdictions and New Zealand.
“Arson is a major threat to the Australian community, with up to half the estimated 54,000 bushfires each year deliberately lit or started in suspicious circumstances,” Mr McClelland said.
“The strategy will help ensure a national, collaborative approach to combating the potentially deadly crime of bushfire arson.”
He said the new national strategy outlined four key principles – a national approach, information sharing, collaboration and consistency and interoperability.
He said it would include a new public website to provide ready access to community information on arson; an intranet platform to provide investigators with a secure environment to exchange information; advice on best practice arson prevention strategies; and support for a Wildfire Arson Investigation Management Course.
Mr McClelland said the strategy was the first part of the National Work Plan to reduce bushfire arson in Australia.
“Arson, in all its forms, is estimated to cost the Australian community approximately $1.6 billion per year,” he said.
“However, it is the human toll that is most devastating.”
He said bushfires were one of the leading causes of death from disaster and had accounted for more people injured than all other natural disasters combined.
“The community plays a key role in detecting suspicious behaviour of arsonists and working with police to keep the community safe,” he said.
“The national strategy will help raise awareness of arsonists in the community.”
Mr McClelland said Government and emergency authorities could not fight arson on their own and the help of the community needed to be enlisted.
He said Governments had held Bushfire Arson Forums I recent years to ensure they were all working together to fight arson.
11 August, 2011
Planning study on
the drawing board
A study into the opportunities and constraints for parts of the inner north has been announced by the Minister for Urban Development and Planning John Rau and the mayors of Port Adelaide Enfield, Gary Johanson and Prospect, David O’Loughlin.
Mr Rau said the major study would create a new vision for Kilburn, Blair Athol and part of Prospect, with the State Government and local Councils agreeing the area required fresh thinking.
Mr Rau said the study would be funded jointly by the Land Management Corporation (LMC), the City of Port Adelaide Enfield and the City of Prospect.
He said the study would look at an area between Grand Junction Road to the north, the Gawler rail line to the west, Main North Road to the east and Regency Road to the south.
He said the aim of the study would be to develop a clear picture of the opportunities and constraints facing Kilburn-Blair Athol, and then to create a shared new vision between the State Government, local councils and the community.
“This area includes a mix of industry and housing that was developed more than 50 years ago,” Mr Rau said.
“The Government, the local Councils and the community all agree that it is time to map out a new plan for the future.”
Mayor of Port Adelaide Enfield, Gary Johanson and of Prospect, David O’Loughlin agreed the study would provide a comprehensive understanding of existing State and Local Government strategies and policies that impacted on the area.
Mr Rau said when the study was completed, Port Adelaide Enfield Council, Prospect Council and LMC would engage with local industry and the community to better understand their issues and to establish a shared vision for the Kilburn and Blair Athol area.
“We will work with the local community to deliver the best possible outcome,” Mr Rau said.
He said the study, scheduled for completion later this year, would deliver a range of outcomes including identifying the issues and needs of State and Local Government; and identifying gaps in current information or critical timing information about issues impacting on the area and steps to gathering required information.
11 August, 2011
New strategy to
care for carers
A new national strategy for catering to the needs of carers has been announced.
The National Carer Strategy is supported by the South Australian Government, the Commonwealth and all other State and Territory Governments and promises to provide Australia’s 2.6 million carers with $60 million in new funding over the next four years.
Federal Minister for Families and Community Services, Jenny Macklin launched the Strategy with her along with national Minister for Health and Ageing, Nicola Roxon, and the Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, Senator Jan McLucas.
Ms Macklin said new funding under the Strategy included provisions to extend automatic eligibility for the Carer Allowance for carers of children with Type 1 Diabetes; continue the Carer Adjustment Payment following a catastrophic event involving a child; and improve access to the Carer Supplement for carers to help them maintain paid employment.
She said fairer access to Bereavement Payments and a national and targeted campaign to raise awareness of the role of carers were also be among the priorities of the Strategy.
“The National Carer Strategy will help to ensure carers have the same rights, choices and opportunities as other Australians,” Ms Macklin said.
“It also aims to help build a society which genuinely values and respects carers.”
She said the Strategy set out how Governments, business, health and community professionals and the wider community would work cooperatively together to achieve such a vision.
The launch came after a Productivity Commission report into a long-term disability care and support scheme, a report which Ms Macklin said would be considered carefully.
More information about the National Carer Strategy was available from this PS News link.
11 August, 2011
Businesses to drive
road safety push
A discussion paper urging businesses to become more active promoting road safety has been issued by the National Transport Commission (NTC).
A Corporate Approach to Road Safety Discussion Paper explores how the existing corporate commitment to workplace safety can contribute to achieving Australia’s national road safety strategy targets.
Chief Executive of the NTC, Nick Dimopoulos said that with Governments committing to reduce death and serious injury on Australia’s roads by at least 30 per cent over the next decade it was time to consider the role of the corporate sector in road safety.
“We recognise that corporate investment in road safety has to be good for business,” Mr Dimopoulos said.
“We know of a number of businesses within Australia and internationally which have introduced road safety initiatives which are good for business and good for the community.”
He said the returns for such businesses were often realised in ways not considered before, including customer loyalty, a more skilled workforce, overall reduction in corporate risk, and enhanced brand recognition.
“We’re keen to work collaboratively with the corporate sector to develop a national program that supports and encourages corporations to exert their influence over the way that the road network is used to make life safer for all Australian road users,” he said.
“Businesses can identify and act on things entirely within their control that don’t require Governments to act first and don’t require regulatory change, but will improve road safety.”
Mr Dimopoulos said the discussion paper opened the conversation with corporate Australia about the best way to harness their influence to implement positive, sustainable actions on road safety with consultation to close on 30 September, 2011.
For more information visit the Corporate Approach to Road Safety discussion paper this PS News link.
11 August, 2011
Sporting grants
make their mark
The latest round of sports grants under the Active Club Program has seen $1.1 million shared between 211 groups in regional and metropolitan areas.
Recreation, Sport and Racing Minister, Tom Kenyon said more than $21 million in Active Club funds had now been distributed to over 4,000 grassroots organisations since 2002, providing an enormous boost to recreation and sporting activities throughout the State.
“This funding is highly valued by the South Australian sporting community assisting a wide range of sport and active recreation groups to purchase equipment, deliver activities and improve their facilities,” Mr Kenyon said.
“The really pleasing aspect of the Active Club Program is that it allows us to support projects and programs that are strongly driven by all of the volunteers in the local community that keep our sports clubs alive.”
Mr Kenyon said some of the successful grants announced as part of this round of the Active Club Program included $8,000 for Whyalla Lions Soccer Club to assist with a floodlighting upgrade; $10,000 to Adelaide Comets Football Club to assist with a facility upgrade; and $6,000 to Goodwood Cricket Club to purchase sporting equipment.
He said other successful grants included $15,000 for Bridgewater Tennis Club to assist with a surface upgrade; $10,000 to Keith Swimming Club to assist with a facility upgrade; and $6,000 to West Torrens Baseball Club to assist with a fencing upgrade.
Mr Kenyon said funding for the second round of the 2011-12 Active Club Program would open on 27 August 2011.
He said active recreation and sport clubs could apply for a share of $2.35 million in funding which was provided over two rounds each financial year.
More information is available from this PS News link.
11 August, 2011
Food health dialogue
cooks up website
A new website designed to encourage healthier foods and eating across the community has been launched by the Commonwealth’s Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing, Catherine King.
Showcasing the work of the joint public/private Food and Health Dialogue, the website focuses on food innovation, including a ‘reformulation program’ that aims to reduce fat, sugar, sodium and energy in consumer food products, and increase the fibre, wholegrain, fruit and vegetable content.
Ms King said the Dialogue had already achieved commitments from industry to reduce the sodium content of more than 100 bread products and more than 20 ready-to-eat breakfast cereals and the new website would keep consumers informed about its work.
“Information on monitoring activities and the next food sectors to be engaged under the Dialogue will also appear on the website,” Ms King said.
“Over time, details of related initiatives, including food reformulation activities being undertaken in the United Kingdom and the United States, will be added to the site.”
She said sodium reduction targets had already been agreed for simmer sauces, and sodium and saturated fat reduction targets for processed meats.
She said the website would also allow consumers to see which companies had signed up to the Dialogue and which were committed to improving the nutritional profile of their products.
The website described the Dialogue’s primary activity as “action on food innovation”. It said the reformulation program set targets at challenging levels to deliver “real benefits to Australian consumers.”
It also said the reformulation program would be supported where appropriate by activities aimed at reducing and standardising portion sizes.
The website is available at this PS News link.
11 August, 2011
Greenway crossings
get green light
New pedestrian and cyclist crossings across Marion Road and Daws Road in Adelaide have been commissioned as part of the Greenways initiative.
Minister for Transport, Patrick Conlon said the new crossings were included in the $12 million project further improving safety along a key green transport route.
“The Greenways initiative is aimed at creating safer and more convenient walking and cycling routes along major transport corridors,” Mr Conlon said.
“The new crossing facilities for pedestrians and cyclists will not only improve accessibility to local amenities, but it will provide significant safety improvements.”
He said the crossings for Marion and Daws Roads were a key component of the Adelaide to Marino Rocks Greenway, providing a pedestrian and cycle-friendly route along the soon to be electrified Noarlunga train line.
Mr Conlon said Greenways offered a safe travel alternative away from busy traffic on arterial roads, linking people with their home, workplace, schools and local open spaces.
He said a key focus of the program was about improving safety for those who chose to walk or cycle, while improving connectivity to local shopping precincts, public transport and nearby schools.
Mr Conlon said in addition to the pedestrian crossings for Marion and Daws Roads, a new pedestrian crossing on Greenhill Road would be in operation by the end of the month.
“A new pedestrian crossing on Greenhill Road will link the Greenway route with the CBD,” Mr Conlon said.
“We are further improving safety here with the installation of sheltered u-turn facilities both to the east and west of Johnstone Terrace, offering a safer alternative for motorists.”
Mr Conlon said the Greenways and Cycle Paths project consisted of 15 kilometres of Greenway from Adelaide to Marino Rocks.
11 August, 2011
And in Other News...
Students fired up
Students from Roxby Downs who participated in the Metropolitan Fire Service’s (MFS) Road Awareness Program (RAP) during a recent visit to Adelaide have been prompted to invite the MFS to present RAP to fellow students, young apprentices and adults back in their home community.
MFS Station Officer, Rod Campbell presented two emotional, confronting RAP sessions in Roxby Downs this week, with the help of road crash survivor, Eli Murn – who suffers from a permanent brain injury.
Regulator removed
The Clayton Regulator in the Goolwa Channel is to be removed following an agreement between the Commonwealth and South Australian Governments.
To cost more than $3.8 million to restore the connectivity through the Goolwa Channel and a similar amount being contributed by the Murray Darling Basin Authority, removal of the Clayton Regulator will improve hydrological connectivity and navigation between Lake Alexandrina and the Goolwa Channel.
Stormwater works begin
Works are now underway along Old Port Road on Waterproofing the West - Stage One.
Stormwater harvesting and reuse projects will ease the pressure on drinking water supplies and deliver improved water quality to urban waterways.
The project will allow more harvesting, treatment, storage and supply of stormwater and will also mitigate flood risk.
Minister for water, Paul Caica said a key element of the project’s success was a strong collaboration with all tiers of government.
4 August, 2011
Superannuation plan
has defined benefits
The Federal Minister for Public Sector Superannuation has called on the States and Territories to manage some of the PS superannuation schemes centrally.
The Minister, Senator Nick Sherry, outlined the benefits of a ‘partnership’ between the administrators of PS super schemes offering ‘defined benefits’ to a conference of Government Superannuation Funds in Perth.
Senator Sherry said there were still 33 defined benefit schemes operating in Australia, mostly in the public sector and mostly closed.
He said in 1982-83 around 82 per cent of the members of PS super funds were in defined benefit schemes but by 2008 the number had fallen to two per cent.
“Looking forward [the schemes] will generate considerable challenges,” Senator Sherry said.
“Economies could be achieved across jurisdictions.”
He said the core problem was that fund managers needed to maintain effective administration of closed schemes while cash flow and membership declined.
“I believe you should consider the fundamental issue of better cooperation across jurisdictions to meet these challenges,” Senator Sherry told the fund managers.
“In the mature superannuation market we have today, is superannuation administration a core business of any government?”
He said there were a number of common factors in the old style schemes that made them difficult to administer.
“Calculating a member’s benefit in a defined benefit scheme involves a much more complex process than in a defined contribution scheme.”
He said the data and systems used to manage the schemes were sometimes ‘decades old’; there was a diminishing number of ‘subject matter experts’ who understood the intricacies of the schemes; and importantly, they were closed.
“There is a risk if we don’t start talking to each other soon that opportunities to work together to create critical mass and to reduce costs will be lost, as each jurisdiction looks to identify its own solutions,” Senator Sherry said.
“It is likely to become increasingly difficult to attract and retain capable people with aspirations of a long-term career in superannuation administration, particularly defined benefit administration.”
He said there could be opportunities for administrators to work together “given similarities in scheme designs, member demographics and challenges faced.”
The full text of the Minister’s speech can be accessed at this PS News link.
4 August, 2011
Red light cameras
get green light
New red light cameras are to be installed at six level crossings in the next year to encourage drivers to obey flashing warning lights and posted speed limits.
Minister for Road Safety Tom Kenyon said the new cameras would be installed at Leader St, Goodwood; the Cormack Rd/Magazine Rd, Dry Creek crossing; Commercial Rd, Salisbury; Kilkenny Rd, Woodville Pk; Woodville Road, Woodville; and Womma Road, Elizabeth North.
“Drivers who disobey the warning signs and drive too fast through level crossings are putting themselves and other drivers at great risk,” Mr Kenyon.
“Driver inattention, driver distraction, risk taking and disobeying warning signs are the most common contributors to vehicle-train level crossing crashes.”
He said no fatalities had been recorded at level crossings over the past 12 months however there was potential for death or serious injury from a level crossing crash.
He said there had been 24 deaths and 74 people injured in South Australia between 2001 and 2010 with 84 vehicle collisions at level crossings during the same period.
“The Road Traffic (Red Light Offences) Amendment Bill 2011 will ensure policing, fines and demerit points are consistent at both intersections and level crossings in South Australia,” Mr Kenyon said.
“The Bill allows drivers who are detected for speeding offences through level crossings and who disobey warning lights at the same time to now be fined and incur demerit points for both offences.”
Mr Kenyon said $11 million had been allocated over three years from 2009-12 for engineering, education and enforcement around level crossings across the State.
He said the programs were expected to be completed within the next 12 months.
“Currently, drivers travelling through road intersections with traffic lights can be penalised for both speeding and running a red light from a single incident,” Mr Kenyon said.
“This legislation will ensure drivers can now also be penalised for similar offences at level crossings.”
4 August, 2011
New tourism website
well worth a visit
A revamped website has given South Australia the lead in the online tourism stakes according to the Minister for Tourism, John Rau.
Mr Rau said the new website southaustralia.com with its booking technology was “a step ahead” of every other government competitor.
“Online booking is the favoured approach by the vast majority of tourists and this new website places South Australia at the forefront of tourism marketing in Australia,” Mr Rau said.
“Potential visitors will now be able to browse, plan and book their perfect holiday online without having to leave the southaustralia.com website.”
He said the new site meant that researching and booking a South Australian holiday had never been easier.
“This direct connectivity will mean more sales and revenue for the State’s tourism operators than ever before.”
Mr Rau said a team at the South Australian Tourism Commission had developed the site in conjunction with consultants.
“This site combines stunning design with a powerful backend infrastructure that is at the cutting edge of online booking technology,” Mr Rau said.
He said the new website would allow consumers to search tourism products across the entire suite of the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse product.
He said unlike any other government tourism website, when potential tourists searched on southaustralia.com their results would be filtered to first show those tourism products that were bookable online and available for particular dates.
“This feature, and the overall ease of use of the site, puts us ahead in the race for tourism dollars,” Mr Rau said.
He said the second and third phases of the website upgrade would include dedicated sites for international markets, versions for mobile devices, interactive maps and closer integration with social media websites.
He said the project was an excellent investment in a multi-billion dollar industry and had cost less so far than the previous site as well as being cheaper and easier to update.
“This is a tool that has been crafted from extensive research into how we can best engage our operators and the public in a digital world,” Mr Rau said.
4 August, 2011
Health agreement
is best medicine
The Commonwealth’s national health agreement with all the States and Territories has been welcomed by the Premier, Mike Rann and Minister for Health, John Hill.
The Ministers were particularly pleased that South Australia was the first State to sign up.
Mr Rann said the agreement would lock in the major reforms to the nation’s health services that he had played a lead role in negotiating through the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) process.
He said the agreement guaranteed the Commonwealth would meet 50 per cent of the growth in health funding from 2017-18.
Prior to that, between 2014-15 and 2016-17, it would meet 45 per cent.
“In dollar terms that means an extra $1.15 billion for South Australia between 2014-15 and 2019-20,” Mr Rann said.
“This is a huge improvement on the position we are in now.”
Minister for Health, John Hill said the agreement paved the way for a real partnership to deliver better health services.
“South Australia has a very good health care system and we have been working consistently to make it a great health system,” Mr Hill said.
“However, to achieve better results for South Australians, we needed a fair funding agreement from the Commonwealth government and that is what we have got.”
He said the National Health Reform agreement provided for a new nationally unified and locally controlled health system that would improve patient access to services and public hospital efficiency through the use of activity based funding based on a national efficient price.
“By adopting these reform proposals, we can finally create a seamless national health care system – and patients will be the beneficiaries,” Mr Hill said.
4 August, 2011
Homeless programs
bring it on home
A marked reduction in people ‘sleeping rough’ in Adelaide was evidence that homelessness programs were working in South Australia according to the Minister for Housing Jennifer Rankine and the Federal Minister for Social Housing and Homelessness, Senator Mark Arbib.
Senator Arbib said a new South Australian report showed a 50 per cent reduction in the number of people sleeping out in Adelaide over the past four years.
Ms Rankine said the report recognised the achievements of the first two years of the Homeless to Home strategy and laid out the framework and plans to building on this achievement for the next two years.
“By combining resources from different programs, we have been able to focus more than $213 million on homelessness support and services in SA over four years and are also providing more than half of the 1,360 new Nation Building Stimulus houses to homeless people or those at high risk,” Ms Rankine said.
“Our homelessness services are now more connected, consistent and responsive, with 75 new specialist homelessness services for families and individuals across South Australia, including services for women and their children who are homeless as a result of experiencing domestic violence.”
Senator Arbib said the results showed what was possible when governments worked together to assist homeless and disadvantaged Australians.
“South Australia has a range of innovative programs to tackle homelessness, including the Street to Home outreach service and Common Ground housing,” Senator Arbib said.
“Partnerships are absolutely critical and I commend the work that has taken place in South Australia, including the great efforts of the many community organisations that are dedicated to turning people’s lives around.”
He said addressing homelessness required more than putting a roof over someone’s head.
“It is about providing outreach services, accommodation support and ensuring that employment and health services continue to help them stabilise their lives.
“The dramatic reduction in rough sleeping in Adelaide shows that we can as a community end homelessness for many people when we work together.”
4 August, 2011
Schools win war with
Anzac victories
A South Australian primary school has received the top honour in this year’s national Anzac Day Schools’ Awards.
Federal Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon said the annual awards program encouraged students to learn about Australia’s wartime history and develop relationships with their local veteran and current serving communities.
Mr Snowdon said SA’s Compton Primary School showed outstanding initiative in their commemorations.
He said Compton Primary students captured the history of their town by developing a Trail of Honour commemorating 67 local Second World War veterans.
Mr Snowdon said the school also held a special service that was well attended by students, families and the wider Mount Gambier community.
“This year’s entries showed exceptional commitment to commemorating the service and sacrifice of Australia’s veterans and current serving members,” Mr Snowdon said.
“It is great to see the effort, thought and planning that schools have put in to remembering our wartime history and ensuring the commemorations of the Anzacs live on.”
He said 18 winners across the country shared in $20,000 of prize money this year, funded by the Commonwealth’s Saluting their Service program.
He encouraged all Australian primary and secondary schools to consider sharing how they commemorate and learn about Australia’s wartime history and enter the Anzac Day Schools’ Awards in 2012.
“The sharing of our veterans’ stories is becoming increasingly important as we look towards the Centenary of the First World War from 2014 to 2018,” Mr Snowdon said.
Compton Primary School won $2,000 for its overall national award and $1,000 for taking out the SA Primary Schools section.
Kildare College won the SA Secondary Schools Award for which it also received $1,000.
Playford Primary School also won $500 for best innovative activity.
4 August, 2011
Parents needled over
vaccination booster
Parents have been reminded to ensure their children have booster vaccinations before they turn four years old.
Health Minister John Hill said the Big Help For Little Adventurers campaign reminded parents that children were not fully protected until they had their booster shots.
“When children are starting kindy they’re meeting lots of new people and it’s really important they are protected against contagious diseases, such as whooping cough,” Mr Hill said.
“Making sure your child is vaccinated also helps to reduce the spread of infection between children, family and friends.”
Mr Hill said protection from some vaccines given to babies faded over time, so it was important for children to have booster shots to maintain the guard against diseases such as whooping cough, measles, tetanus, diphtheria and rubella.
He said as part of the campaign, children would receive a storybook called Jack’s Big Adventure, created as a fun way for them to learn about why they needed vaccinations.
Mr Hill said information packs, including the storybook, would be sent by Medicare Australia to the homes of parents with children aged three and a half.
He said brochures and posters would also be distributed to health care providers, child-care centres and kindergartens across the State, to help remind people about the importance of booster vaccinations.
Mr Hill said booster vaccinations could be given to children safely any time after they reached three and a half.
He said vaccinations were provided through GPs and also at free Council clinics and some health centres.
More information is available from this PS News link.
4 August, 2011
Power with people
in energy study
Homeowners in Adelaide keen to save money on their energy bills have been invited to join a new project in which the CSIRO, measures the amount of energy used to keep homes warm or cool throughout the seasons.
Senior scientist with CSIRO’s Energy Transformed Flagship, Peter Osman said the organisation was looking at how energy costs varied for different homes in different climates.
“By understanding energy use over the year, throughout different seasons, we’ll gain an accurate picture of how the energy efficiency of houses could be improved,” Dr Osman said.
He said taking part in the study had two “fantastic” benefits.
“Firstly, by understanding how energy is used we have no doubt that energy bills could be reduced,” Dr Osman said.
“Secondly, we could help improve household comfort levels by suggesting the most cost effective ways to prevent energy loss.”
He said residents of Adelaide who lived in a house less than 10 years old could register to become one of the study households.
He said those who took part would receive a unique opportunity to understand how their homes used energy better with each receiving a detailed report at the end of the survey.
Dr Osman said some participating households would be provided with an online monitoring device worth $1,500 that the whole family could use to see where and how they were using electricity.
He said taking part in the study was easy.
“Your home will be fitted with a couple of thermometers and some homes may be eligible to have the online energy monitoring device installed.
“You will also be asked to provide information, like your energy bills, so we know a little bit more about your household.”
Dr Osman said the study was being funded by the Federal Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency and would cover 500 homes in the three cities.
4 August, 2011
Retention program
not holding back
A school retention program that has helped over 10,000 youngsters stay on at school is to be expanded Statewide.
The Innovative Community Action Networks program (ICAN) was set up in 2004 as an initiative of the Social Inclusion Board and has since been expanded to regional areas.
From this term it will be operating across the State.
Education Minister Jay Weatherill said ICAN had had a real impact on the lives of the young people involved in it and was a key factor in the 16-year high in school retention rates in South Australia.
Mr Weatherill said with the roll-out of the program in Term 3 to school communities in the Barossa, Mid-North, eastern suburbs and Adelaide Hills regions, the program would be operating across South Australia.
“We know that if young people leave school or training too early they are less likely to reach their full potential,” Mr Weatherill said.
“The ICAN program has so far successfully helped more than 10,000 public school students to re-engage with studies and training.
“It provides a community support structure for young people so that by working together we are able to find ways for them to keep going with their studies and be better prepared for work and life in their community.”
Mr Weatherill said ICAN helped young people from Year 6 up to 19 years of age and involved local agencies coming together to provide specialist support.
He said the program was now running in every region, except the APY Lands, which had a different range of strategies to support Aboriginal students on the Lands.
“The involvement of the whole community supporting its young people has been the key to this program’s success,” Mr Weatherill said.
“We have extended this work into primary schools, where case managers work with Year 6 and 7 students, their teachers and their families to strengthen their engagement with schooling.”
Mr Weatherill said the new primary school model of ICAN identified and addressed individual issues that could affect a student’s ability to successfully make the step into high school.
“It looks at the barriers that can affect school attendance and engagement with study and works to strengthen students’ and families’ relationships with schools,” Mr Weatherill said.
4 August, 2011
Desalinated water
comes on stream
The Adelaide Desalination Plant has reached a major milestone by producing its first desalinated water.
Minister for Water, Paul Caica said the reverse osmosis filtration system at the $1.83 billion Plant was now producing pure desalinated water.
“The production of desalinated water from the plant is fantastic news for South Australia as we continue towards completion of the 100 gigalitre Adelaide Desalination Plant by the end of 2012,” Mr Caica said.
“This milestone is a critical step in building the desalination plant that will ensure South Australians have a secure water supply completely independent of climatic conditions.”
He said the desalinated water, which was known as ‘permeate’ by water experts, would now begin its post-treatment phase, when minerals such as lime and fluoride were added to ensure it met SA Water’s stringent drinking water quality guidelines.
“Following post-treatment, SA Water will begin a rigorous testing regime to ensure the desalinated water quality is suitable for blending with treated water from the Happy Valley Reservoir and once they are satisfied, the desalinated water can be delivered to customer taps,” Mr Caica said.
He said the volume of desalinated water entering the SA Water supply network would progressively increase until the plant reached full capacity by the end of 2012.
“At capacity, the plant will produce up to 300 million litres of drinking water per day, providing up to half of Adelaide’s water needs,” Mr Caica said.
“Everyone involved has been working incredibly hard on this project, and they are committed to delivering high quality desalinated drinking water to the people of Adelaide.”
Chief Executive of SA Water, John Ringham said he was incredibly proud of the work done by the team at the plant delivering such a complex project and wanted to reassure the community that the Corporation would continue to deliver a high-quality and safe product.
“The desalination treatment process, including ultra-filtration and reverse osmosis, removes salt and impurities from the water and turns it in to fresh, drinking water,” Mr Ringham said.
“Remineralisation is the next vital step in the plant’s process which allows beneficial compounds to be added to the water ensuring it can safely enter the SA Water supply system,” he said.
4 August, 2011
Seniors buy into
consumer guide
A new consumer guide for older people has been released by Consumer and Business Services (CBS), the new name for the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs.
Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gail Gago said the Savvy Seniors guide provided detailed information on a range of areas such as telemarketing, shopping both in stores and online, scams and product safety.
“The guide contains information on consumer rights under the new Australian Consumer Law, specifically in relation to issues that impact older people such as refund rights, door-to-door sales and sensible spending,” Ms Gago said.
“Savvy Seniors will allow consumers to know what is and isn’t acceptable conduct from retailers, and help them make informed choices when purchasing products and services.”
Ms Gago said that as many South Australians were living longer and remaining at home, the new guide had a dedicated section on unsolicited door-to-door sales.
“While there are many legitimate door-to-door traders, there are also people who use this method to scam unsuspecting consumers, causing significant distress for their victims,” Ms Gago said.
“Savvy Seniors outlines all the protective conditions associated with door-to-door sales so elderly people know their rights and can confidently deal with this situation.”
Ms Gago said helpful information provided in the guide include that door-to-door trading may only be conducted between 9am and 6pm weekdays and 9 to 5 Saturdays, unless by prior arrangement, and under the law, door-to-door traders must show their identification and other information that identified who they worked for.
Minister for Ageing, Jennifer Rankine said the new guide was another valuable resource to not only protect, but also empower older people.
“Knowing your rights as a consumer is important at any age, particularly as you get older, and being able to negotiate in the market place is integral to a person’s independence,” Ms Rankine said.
“Savvy Seniors is one of many projects supported through the Improving with Age – Our Ageing Plan for South Australia, which has seen around $2 million for initiatives and projects in 2010-11.”
The new guide can be accessed at this PS News link.
4 August, 2011
Training figures on
the right course
Data released by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) shows steady growth in the number of South Australian apprentices, trainees in-training and others completing their training.
Minister Assisting the Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education, Tom Kenyon welcomed the growth as “encouraging”.
“The latest NCVER Apprentice and Trainees Annual 2010 report shows 31,700 apprentices and trainees in-training in South Australia as at 31 December 2010,” Mr Kenyon said.
“This represents a 3.3 per cent increase on the figure 12 months earlier.”
He said the NCVER report also showed that 23,500 apprentices and trainees started their training in 2010 – a 16.5 per cent increase on the previous 12 months, and above the national growth average.
“There was a significant increase in the number of trade occupation apprentices and trainees who started their training in 2010 – an increase of 29.8 per cent from 5,400 in 2009 to 7,000 – higher than the national average,” Mr Kenyon said.
He said the data also indicated a 12.1 per cent increase in non-trade occupation commencements between 2009 and 2010.
“Completion figures were also strong in 2010, with 12,600 apprentices and trainees finishing their training – an increase of 11.2 per cent, and higher than the national average of 5.4 per cent,” Mr Kenyon said.
Mr Kenyon said the Skills for All reforms - the single greatest investment ever made in South Australia’s training system would significantly increase current skill levels, lift workforce participation and increase productivity.
4 August, 2011
Excellence awards for
excellent teachers
Two South Australian teachers have been recognised for excellence in the 2010 National Excellence in Teaching Awards (NEiTA).
Chairman of NEiTA, Terry O’Connell said the teaching awards program was developed in 1994 in recognition of the importance of teachers in helping children reach their education potential.
Principal of Kadina Primary School, Mark Sparvell and teacher at Reynella Primary School, Nicky Taylor were among 10 national award recipients chosen across three categories – leadership, innovation and community engagement.
Both Mr Sparvell and Ms Taylor won national awards for innovation.
Mr O’Connell said award winners were selected from more than 1,000 nominations received from early childhood and school communities and parents.
He said the award winners exemplified professional excellence and inspirational teaching.
“The NEiTA teaching awards program has enabled the consumers of education to identify Australia’s leading teachers and celebrate how they do what they do so well,” Mr O’Connell said.
“After 18 years of the awards program, I’m still surprised by the similarities between the outstanding teachers and also their diversity.”
Mr O’Connell said the winning teachers had qualities of passion, dedication, commitment, resourcefulness, innovation, willingness to share, and leadership.
“These qualities manifest themselves in a diverse range of people teaching across the spectrum of early childhood and school education roles and functions,” Mr O’Connell said.
“Quite simply, outstanding teachers do wonderful things in the community and the NEiTA national teaching awards program enables communities to say thank you, recognise and congratulate the contribution of these teachers and leaders,” he said.
4 August, 2011
Irrigators dig in for
infrastructure
South Australian irrigators in the Murray-Darling Basin are to benefit from 21 new projects to upgrade irrigation infrastructure.
Federal Minister for Water, Tony Burke said the projects were proposed by the irrigators and would be paid for by the Commonwealth.
Mr Burke said six applicants for funding in the second round Private Irrigation Infrastructure Program for South Australia (PIIP-SA) had been successful.
He said they included Overland Corner Estate Pty Ltd, Agriproperty Pty Ltd - Solora Farms, Agriproperty Pty Ltd - Kangara Farms, Jubilee Almonds Irrigation Trust Inc and Overland Vineyards Pty Ltd.
The South Australian Murray-Darling Basin Natural Resources Management Board was also named as a delivery partner for 16 successful projects.
Mr Burke said water reform for the Murray-Darling Basin would restore rivers to health, support strong regional communities and ensure sustainable food production.
“This program will help us achieve that and assist farmers to build on their good work and become more efficient with their water use,” Mr Burke said.
“Off-farm infrastructure upgrade projects, some of which also include on-farm works, will be rolled out right across the Riverland.”
He said the use of such infrastructure could create water savings by recovering water lost to seepage and help farmers to irrigate in a way best suited to their crops’ needs.
“The upgrades are expected to save more than 3,000 megalitres of water entitlements to be shared between the project proponents and the Australian Government,” Mr Burke said.
“Water savings returned to the Australian Government will aid the recovery of the river system and wetlands.”
He said the project works would include upgrading pumps, mainline pipes, meters and filtration systems, converting or upgrading drip and sprinkler systems, and installing soil moisture monitoring and automation equipment.
The Private Irrigation Infrastructure Program for South Australia program is a component of the Australian Government’s Water for the Future initiative.
4 August, 2011
Zero Waste zeroes
in on businesses
A new model for collaboration has been announced to increase the number of South Australian businesses working to reduce their environmental footprints.
Minister for Environment and Conservation, Paul Caica said one of South Australia’s largest organisations, ETSA Utilities, had joined the State Government in a partnership that would see Zero Waste assist it to find ways to further improve energy waste and water management.
Mr Caica said the collaboration had been formalised in a Memorandum of Understanding which sets out a course of action for the coming year.
“ETSA Utilities is one of several South Australian companies working with the State Government to improve its environmental sustainability management through our Resource Efficiency Assistance Program,” Mr Caica said.
“ETSA Utilities is now working towards a target of recycling 60–70 per cent of their waste through a range of initiatives including strong communication, education and engagement of all staff and potential recycling of waste concrete from stobie pole construction.”
He said the MoU signed by the Chief Executives of Zero Waste SA, Vaughan Levitzke and ETSA Utilities, Rob Stobbe built on this commitment and provided a platform to further support their key environmental activities.
He said the MoU would provide a template for similar future Government and private enterprises which had the potential to substantially influence improved resource efficiency among South Australian businesses and their customers.
“We know that businesses can increase efficiency and save money by introducing green practices such as better waste management,” Mr Caica said.
“We hope that this new relationship with ETSA Utilities will encourage other businesses to consider how Zero Waste SA can assist them in achieving their environmental business goals.”
4 August, 2011
Study rolled out
to help with hub
A feasibility study is to be undertaken to determine how a heavy industry hub in the Upper Spencer Gulf could help local industries take advantage of opportunities generated by the mining and energy booms.
Minister for Regional Development, Gail Gago said a $500,000 feasibility study for an Upper Spencer Gulf Heavy Industry Hub was an important step towards building the value chain associated with growing industries in the State’s north.
“The Upper Spencer Gulf is the gateway to more than half of South Australia’s 17 major operational mines in the State’s north, with at least another 10 promising projects in the pipeline,” Ms Gago said.
“A heavy industry hub in this area could boost business development opportunities for companies in high-value engineering, manufacturing and services sectors.”
She said the study was crucial to a better understanding of the needs of mining-related industries in the Upper Spencer Gulf and to determine how a hub might assist the region maximise the benefits of current and future mining growth.
“It will investigate industry requirements in terms of infrastructure, materials, trades, services and staffing, which will help inform future investment decisions in the region,” Ms Gago said.
“These findings will also help improve government and industry understanding of how mining growth can be leveraged for the benefit of related industries and how efficient local supply chains can provide a competitive advantage to the State’s mining sector.”
She said the study would be undertaken in two parts with stage one reporting on the potential economic benefits of establishing a heavy industry hub or hubs in the Upper Spencer Gulf.
Ms Gago said the research would involve targeted industry and stakeholder engagement.
4 August, 2011
Pilot program
steers the way
A pilot program to redirect Adelaide’s homeless and long-term unemployed people into volunteering, training or work, has been launched by a partnership involving the Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology (DFEST).
Chief Executive of DFEST, Raymond Garrand said the Working Solutions program was a unique partnership between industry, community and Government and was aimed at addressing some of the barriers that many disadvantaged people faced in gaining employment.
Mr Garrand said the program delivered one-on-one mentoring and worked with the 35 participants to identify ways of overcoming personal and employment barriers and entering pathways to work, study or volunteering.
He said the program was delivered in partnership with the Department through South Australia Works, the North East Development Agency, Hutt Street Centre, St Vincent de Paul and Kiikstart.
“Low levels of literacy and numeracy skills and difficulties with housing affect the ability of many adults to fully participate in their communities and benefit from economic growth in the State,” Mr Garrand said.
He said one of the key components of Skills for All was assistance to those most disadvantaged in the labour market.
“The goal for participants is to gain work ready skills and access to long term employment opportunities,” Mr Garrand said.
4 August, 2011
And in Other News...
Commissioner to boost business
Legislation has been introduced into Parliament to establish a Small Business Commissioner.
The proposal to create a Small Business Commissioner and an associated office will give the state’s Small Business sector a greater voice.
Minister for Small Business, Tom Koutsantonis said the establishment of a Small Business Commissioner would create a level playing field and would allow the small guys to stand up for themselves.
Oval gets OK
Parliament has approved Adelaide Oval legislation that will ensure the necessary approvals and certainty to build, operate and manage a world-class stadium.
The Adelaide Oval Redevelopment and Management Bill 2011 will provide protection for the Moreton Bay fig trees, the heritage scoreboard, the northern mound and guarantees the name Adelaide Oval.
Site work will begin immediately following the end of the 2011-12 cricket season in March.
Feds boost local health
The Federal Government is to fund around 30 projects to improve health education and training infrastructure in South Australia.
As part of a national program the Commonwealth will spend $15 million on new facilities at Universities, hospitals and health care facilities, as well as new equipment.
The projects will see more doctors, nurses and allied health professionals start work in places where the community needs them.
More for heritage register
Three new significant structures have been provisionally entered on the South Australian Heritage Register.
St Michael’s Church and Cemetery at Hahndorf, the Brownhill Creek stone lining, and an historic fence at the Islington Railway Workshops have been provisionally entered on the Register.
Places assessed as having state heritage significance are provisionally entered on the Register for three months to allow public comment, before they are either confirmed or removed by the Heritage Council.
Rail scheme approved
The South Australian Rail Access Regime (SARAR) has been certified as an ‘effective access regime’ under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (CCA) for a period of 10 years.
The SARAR provides a framework for third party access to South Australian rail.
The Regime covers four operational railways in South Australia including the metropolitan heavy rail passenger network, and three freight rail networks.
Aquaculture comments sought
Comments on a new aquaculture zone policy proposed for Tumby Bay, approximately 50 kilometres north-east of Port Lincoln on the Eyre Peninsula are being sought.
The Department of Primary Industries and Resources said the new zone was important for the industry’s growth in South Australia.
The proposed Tumby Bay policy is comprised of an aquaculture zone and an aquaculture exclusion zone which incorporates an area of approximately 10,327 hectares.
The draft policy and policy report are available at this PS News link.
Submissions close 30 September 2011.
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