SearchArchives for June 2010
29 July, 2010Bike networks
get a leg up
Bicycle networks in Adelaide and the regions are to be improved this financial year with 29 new projects announced by the Minister for Transport, Patrick Conlon.Mr Conlon said $1.3 million would be spent on improving the city’s bicycle networks in an effort to encourage more people to ride to work or school.
“This Government has spent $105.9 million on cycling facilities since coming to office to ensure South Australia has safe and accessible places for cyclists of all ages and capabilities,” Mr Conlon said.
“Since 2002 we have increased the length of Adelaide’s bike paths and lanes by more than 60 per cent.
“We will continue to work towards comprehensive and linked bicycle networks for Adelaide and regional centres and have installed a record number of bicycle lanes in recent years.”
He said funding for the upcoming projects would come from the State Black Spot Program and the State Bicycle Fund.
The Minister said the city’s network of bicycle lanes and shared use paths would be expanded, while there would also be significant upgrades to facilities and a focus on strategic planning.
He said all nominations were assessed according to their safety benefits, strategic benefits, contribution to bicycle networks and value for money.
Fifteen metropolitan Council projects will be funded, along with seven arterial road projects and seven regional Council projects.
Mr Conlon said new bike lanes would be built in places such as Port Adelaide, Brighton, Glenelg, Underdale and Port Augusta.
He said other proposed projects included shared use paths in Whyalla, Balaklava Christies Beach, West Lakes, and Modbury, as well as a bridge and shared use path link to the Adelaide Airport north path.
The Minister said Adelaide’s Bikedirect maps could be downloaded from www.sa.gov.au/cycling
29 July, 2010
Foster parents to
have more say
A draft paper outlining plans to give foster parents more independence to deal with the children in their care has been issued for public consultation.Minister for Families and Communities, Jennifer Rankine said a key proposal was to explore the option of transferring guardianship to the carer in cases where children could not be returned to their birth parents.
Ms Rankine said this would occur following a robust assessment concluding that the care giver had the capacity to provide a high level of care for the child, and that they had sufficient personal and professional support to provide care for the child into the future.
Carer families would be required to commit to the child maintaining a connection to their family of origin, community and culture, and also make a lifelong commitment to the child.
There would also have to be a preferential relationship between the child and the carer.
Ms Rankine said changes outlined in the draft paper, Directions for Alternative Care in South Australia, would build on work already underway to increase the range of care options available and improve the lives of young people.
“We know that many wonderful carers build lifelong commitments to the children in their care and these changes will make their life easier,” Ms Rankine said.
“These changes mean a carer could apply through the Youth Court to have full guardianship and therefore have greater say in the health, education and life choices of these young children.
She said alternative care services aimed to provide care in a family environment, while keeping the existing ties that children and young people have with their families and communities, so long as it is safe to do so.
She said under the proposed changes, access arrangements with parents would continue where appropriate, but where it was not, children would be able to experience a sense of belonging with another family instead.
The Minister said FamiliesSA would consult with the sector on Directions for Alternative Care in South Australia.
29 July, 2010
Mental health team
gives early support
The Department of Health has set up an early intervention team to support mental health professionals working with young people at risk of developing a serious mental illness.Minister for Health, John Hill said the Early Psychosis Intervention Service (EPIS) would give mental health staff the skills and knowledge needed to help adolescents through a first episode of psychosis.
“Getting help early to identify and treat someone the first time they become unwell is absolutely critical, both to the individual and their family.” Mr Hill said.
“Since the start of this year, the EPIS team have been working with mental health staff across the State on how to spot the first symptoms of serious mental illness in young people.”
He said this would allow staff to begin early treatment and hopefully reduce the chances of another psychotic episode.
Mr Hill said in the majority of cases, the first episode of psychosis occurred in younger people aged between 16 and 25.
He said EPIS was a key part of the State’s mental health reform plan and would be a focus of clinical excellence, research and support for both the Adult Mental Health Services and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services.
The Minister said the Federal Government had recently announced additional funding of $2.8 million over four years to expand the Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Centre model in South Australia and would work with the State Government to implement this.
The SA Social Inclusion Board recommended the development of a specialist Early Psychosis Intervention Service in its 2007 ‘Stepping Up’ Report.
“It’s really important that mental health staff know the best ways to support young people during their first episode of mental illness and then get them on the road to treatment and a healthier future,” Mr Hill said.
29 July, 2010
Numbers wanted
for telco inquiry
The Australian Communications and Media Authority has called for as many examples of customer service problems with telecommunications companies as it can find to include in an official inquiry into the industry. Chair of the national communications watchdog, Chris Chapman said the aim of ACMA’s telecommunications industry inquiry was to improve outcomes for consumers.
“We want to understand what the problems are,” Mr Chapman said. “The way the telecommunications industry is dealing with its customers and the root causes of those problems.
“And critically, we want to identify enduring solutions that will improve customer service and complaints-handling, both now and into the foreseeable future.”
Mr Chapman said ACMA wanted to gather evidence to explain the reasons for the high number of complaints being made to the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman, problems which were broadly corroborated by strong anecdotal feedback.
He said the Authority would also be looking for ways to facilitate best practice customer service in what was an increasingly complex communications environment.
“We want consumers to regain confidence that they will receive the services they need in a way that meets their expectations,” Mr Chapman said.
Releasing a consultation paper and the inquiry’s Terms of Reference, Mr Chapman urged members of the public, consumer groups, telecommunications companies and other regulatory Agencies to have their say.
He said it was important for ACMA to work with industry players and other key stakeholders, including other regulators, in order for the inquiry to succeed.
He said the paper was designed to allow for both general and more detailed, targeted responses and workshops and other forums would be held to engage with consumers.
More information is available from www.acma.gov.au or phone 1800 062 130.
29 July, 2010
Fisheries makes call
for fish volunteers
The Department of Primary Industries and Resources’ Fisheries Division (PIRSA Fisheries) has issued a call for volunteers to help educate recreational fishers on the importance of sustainable fishing.State Fishcare Volunteer Coordinator with PIRSA Fisheries, Toni Cox said volunteers played an essential role in educating recreational fishers through face-to-face contact.
Ms Cox urged people with a passion for fishing and their local community to attend an information night at the Mount Gambier Fisheries office on 16 August to find out more on becoming a Fishcare Volunteer.
“Fishcare Volunteers help keep anglers up to date with the rules and regulations that apply to rec fishing,” Ms Cox said.
“And they have a vital role in raising community awareness of the need to protect our fish stocks.”
She said the volunteers patrol local jetties, boat ramps and other fishing hot spots providing recreational fishers with advice and assistance to ensure they don’t overfish.
“Our volunteers are the education arm of PIRSA Fisheries, they help distribute our education material as well as hand out other handy stickers and measuring devices - all aimed at helping rec fishers get the most out of their fishing experience, while doing so within the law.”
Ms Cox said at present PIRSA Fisheries did not have any volunteers in the Limestone Coast region, so there was an opportunity for a passionate fishing enthusiast to get involved.
She said those with some spare time who loved fishing and the great outdoors could learn more about the role at the information night.
The Fishcare Volunteer Information Session will be held at the PIRSA Fisheries Office, 9 Krummel St Mount Gambier at 7pm on Monday 16 August
More information was available from www.pir.sa.gov.au/fisheries
29 July, 2010
Riverbank warning
comes onstream
The Department for Water has issued a warning to residents and visitors of the River Murray to be watchful for the signs of riverbank collapse.A spokesman for the Department, Jai O’Toole said that while water levels downstream of Blanchetown, or Lock 1, had increased by as much as 80cm since the start of the year, there was still a risk of riverbank collapse.
“All river users can continue to enjoy the river, but should do so safely by knowing and keeping a lookout for the key signs of possible riverbank collapse,” Mr O’Toole said.
He said signs of riverbank collapse cold include cracking of the riverbank, leaning trees and bubbling near the water’s edge.
He said visitors and locals should avoid parking vehicles or mooring boats near areas which display those signs.
“Known riverbank collapse affected areas have been signposted and cordoned off,” Mr O’Toole said.
“Please observe these exclusions and be mindful that other areas may also be at risk, so remain alert.”
He called on members of the public who see the signs of potential collapse to report them or get further information by calling the Riverbank Collapse Hotline, a free 24-hour service, on 1800 751 970.
Mr O’Toole said in the event of a major riverbank collapse, people should call Triple Zero for emergency assistance.
Further information was also available online at www.sa.gov.au
29 July, 2010
Alcohol papers look
at sobering issue
Two discussion papers have been released by the Minister for Consumer Affairs proposing new measures to reduce alcohol-fuelled violence and anti-social behaviour.‘A Safer Night Out’ looks at ways to tackle alcohol related violence and other anti-social behaviour in licensed premises, while a Review of the Code of Practice for licensees, aims to give licensees, the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner, and the Commissioner of Police the necessary authority to stamp out alcohol-related violence.
The Minister, Gail Gago said the paper followed last year’s announcement of a review of the Liquor Licensing Act 1997.
“Unfortunately there are still people indulging in binge-drinking and alcohol-fuelled, anti-social behaviour which can ruin what should be a fun night out,” Ms Gago said.
She said the problem had grown with the introduction of 24-hour licensed trading.
Ms Gago said people ought to be able to feel safe in entertainment areas and on the streets without the threat of violence or abuse.
“We should be able to have a vibrant and exciting international city that is also free from alcohol fuelled anti-social behaviour,” she said, “and these changes are designed to strike that balance.”
Ms Gago said the proposed changes outlined in ‘A Safer Night Out’ included strengthening the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner’s powers to take action against venues where anti-social problems were occurring.
She said this could include imposing conditions on a licence, such as increasing security guards or cameras, or enforcing a lock-out at a venue if there was anti-social behaviour or violence taking place on the street outside.
Other changes outlined include new powers for the Commissioner of Police to close licensed premises in emergency situations and the introduction of a mandatory three hour closing of licensed pubs and clubs between 4.00am and 7.00am or between 5.00am and 8.00am.
Proposed changes in the draft Code of Practice include allowing discretionary action to be taken at late trading premises where anti-social behaviour was occurring.
Ms Gago said these included improved security such as CCTV, queue management, restricting liquor sales, and prohibiting breakable glasses and containers.
Submissions on the discussion papers close on 3 September and for more information, go to www.olgc.sa.gov.au
29 July, 2010
Goolwa cultivated
as culture capital
Goolwa has been selected to host the SA Regional Centre of Culture Program in 2012.It will be the third town to do so following Port Augusta in 2008 and Murray Bridge this year.
Minister Assisting the Premier in the Arts, John Hill said $800,000 would be spent on upgrading Goolwa – over a third of the $1.8 million the State had allocated to the program in 2012.
Alexandrina Council will also contribute over $700,000 to the capital upgrade, which will see the town’s historic Centenary Hall improved to provide a versatile performing arts space.
An exhibition space at Signal Point will be further developed, while the Old Police Station/South Coast Regional Arts Centre will also be upgraded.
Mr Hill said the Council won the bid because of its demonstrated commitment to the integration of arts and culture across its community.
“The Alexandrina Council and the town of Goolwa are worthy winners,” he said.
“I have no doubt that the Council, working with Country Arts SA and our State’s many great arts organisations, will deliver an exciting program of arts and cultural activities in 2012 which the community across the southern Fleurieu Peninsula will fully embrace.”
Mayor of Alexandrina, Kym McHugh said the Council was excited to have been awarded the Regional Centre for Culture funding program for 2012.
“This will be a great boost for our extensive cultural community and will mean an enormous social and economic benefit to the Alexandrina region and indeed the entire Fleurieu Peninsula,” Cr McHugh said.
The SA Regional Centre of Culture Program, which was first announced in 2006, is a major biennial arts initiative based on the European Capital of Culture model.
It aims to encourage new investment in cultural infrastructure and increase access to the arts.
29 July, 2010
Stats show internet
weaves tangled web
The Australian Bureau of Statistics has reported that over three quarters of all the children in South Australia had access to the internet.The Bureau’s figures reveal that of the 79 per cent of South Australian children who had access to the internet, 69 per cent had access at home and 71 per cent could log on at school.
The ABS said less than half of the children who accessed the internet at home used it for two hours or less each week, while about 18 per cent accessed it for more than 10 hours each week.
Children were more likely to use the internet at home as their age increased.
The ABS found that children used the internet at home primarily for educational activities, playing games, general web browsing and communication, such as email and instant messaging.
Of the children who used the internet for chat rooms, forums or instant messaging, 71 per cent were aged 12-14 years, with more girls engaged than boys.
Over half of South Australian households – 54 per cent - had broadband connection in 2008-09, the second lowest of all States and Territories and well below the national average of 62 per cent.
The data on mobile phones revealed that in April last year, less than a third of South Australian children – 31 per cent - owned a mobile phone, the same as the national average.
The ABS found that two thirds of children in the State with a mobile phone used it to contact family, while most of the remaining child population used theirs to contact friends.
Households were generally aware of the risks associated with children using these technologies and 90 per cent or more took precautions such as educating and supervising their child.
29 July, 2010
Weather Bureau’s
new baby is a buoy
The Australian Bureau of Meteorology has commissioned a new high-tech buoy in the Southern Ocean to provide better weather and climate observations.Bureau of Meteorology scientist, Dr Eric Schulz said the floating station was a first for the Southern Ocean, and would relay measurements of wind, temperature, humidity, air pressure, sunlight, and rainfall to the Bureau every few hours.
He said ocean surface properties such as salinity, carbon dioxide, oxygen, fluorescence, currents and waves would also be measured, with the information to be made available to forecasters, researchers and the general public via the internet.
“This buoy, deployed from the Marine National Facility Research Vessel Southern Surveyor, has been able to give up to the minute information on the conditions in the Southern Ocean that influence our weather,” Dr Schulz said.
He said while it was not fully clear how the Southern Ocean interacted because of its remote and inhospitable nature, he expected that the information from the Flux Station would greatly improve scientific understanding.
He said the vast ocean region south of Australia played a critical role in the global climate system, acting as a buffer to smooth out extremes in the atmosphere by soaking up and releasing heat and carbon dioxide, while transporting changes in the ocean around the southern hemisphere.
“We will be able to better understand the role of the ocean in climate variability and the impact on biological processes,” Dr Schulz said.
The Southern Ocean Flux Station is part of the Australian Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) which is funded through the Federal Government’s National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) and the Super Science Initiative.
29 July, 2010
Premier gushes over
water response
The South Australian community has been congratulated for its positive response to the need to conserve water over the past year.Premier, Mike Rann said householders had made an “outstanding” effort to save water.
Mr Rann said the latest mains water consumption figures showed that so far this year, consumption had been 73 billion litres.
“This is five billion litres less than at the same time last year,” Mr Rann said.
“And it’s a staggering 29 billion litres less than the same time in 2002.”
The Premier said South Australian residents are to be congratulated for their efforts particularly as the achievement was all the more impressive due to restrictions being eased twice in recent months.
He said South Australians could now water their gardens up to a maximum of seven hours each week, compared to only three hours a week this time last year.
He said while South Australian residents were using less water, the continued sensible use of water meant restrictions would be eased even further when the desalination plant started producing water by the end of the year.
Mr Rann said information on current permitted watering times and other water-saving tips could be found at www.sawater.com.au
29 July, 2010
Peterborough nails
trade training
New trade training facilities at Peterborough High School have been officially opened by the Minister for Education, Jay Weatherill.Mr Weatherill said the new facilities would help students gain job skills while they studied.
He said the $600,000 upgrade included a high-tech training room and accommodation for an apprentice broker who would work with students to give them a head start into trade careers.
“The facilities we are opening in Peterborough today are about keeping young people in school and giving them the skills and qualifications they need for jobs where there are skills shortages,” Mr Weatherill said.
Peterborough High School is part of the Flinders District Regional Trade Training Centre, which also includes Gladstone High School, John Pirie Secondary School and Jamestown Community School.
Students in these areas are being trained for jobs in industries including agriculture, construction, automotive, electrotechnology, engineering and horticulture.
Mr Weatherill said the Federal and State Governments were working together to help young people prepare for work and community life.
“The State Government’s upgrade of Peterborough High School also includes a training room where students could use specialist software used in training for engineering and mechanics,” he said.
Mr Weatherill said the training room was equipped with video conferencing facilities for students to communicate with other schools and training providers who would give specialised instruction.
“This is an example of teachers, trainers, parents and local employers working together to lift the skills of young people in the local area and boost their opportunities for gaining better jobs,” he said.
29 July, 2010
Gambling laws for
win each way
New laws are to be introduced into Parliament to reduce the numbers of poker machines in the State and create more responsible gambling environments.Minister for Gambling, Tom Koutsantonis said the Gaming Machines (Miscellaneous) Amendment Bill 2010 would see steeper fines for irresponsible gaming venues and removal of the fixed price on gaming machine entitlements.
“Under the Government’s plan, compliance and enforcement provisions will be significantly strengthened,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
He said under the new laws, the maximum penalty that could be applied by the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner for non-compliance, especially for venues that repeatedly broke the rules, would be increased by 33 per cent to $20,000.
Police and authorised officers of the Office of the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner would also be able to issue smaller, on-the-spot fines for less serious breaches.
The Minister said the Government wanted to remove the $50,000 fixed price on gaming machine entitlements, because it had been an impediment to reaching the target of 3,000 fewer pokies.
He said other proposals in the legislation included longer closing hours for venues without a responsible gambling agreement, and strict training and referral obligations for late trading venues which had signed up to such an agreement.
“These measures will make it easier to identify and support patrons who may have problems with gambling at an early stage,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
Other proposals include extending responsible gambling regulation to venues located on Airport land controlled by the Federal Government, and ensuring that machines are only located in enclosed, non-smoking areas.
“Problem gambling can ruin lives and tear families apart,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
“It’s an issue that this Government takes very seriously.”
The Minister said the proposed legislation had been the subject of extensive consultation.
29 July, 2010
Correctional Centre
on the right path
A new Community Correctional Centre has been opened at Noarlunga in Adelaide’s south.Minister for Correctional Services, Tom Koutsantonis said the new centre would provide safer, purpose-built facilities.
“This will be the Community Corrections hub of the greater southern metropolitan region,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
He said the centre would help to keep more than 600 offenders under supervision at any time and had been designed to cater for a growing population.
He said the new centre was a vast improvement on the previous one, which opened in the late 1980s.
Mr Koutsantonis said features of the centre included an environmentally friendly building with security screens in the reception area, duress alarms and five purpose-built interview rooms with dual access.
He said the centre also had a multi-purpose room to cater for larger interview situations, and a specific area for the delivery of rehabilitation programs targeting sexual offenders, violent offenders and those with alcohol and drug problems.
“While all this is obviously beneficial to employees, facilities such as this are instrumental in helping offenders leave the cycle of crime and build more productive lives,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
“While compliance will continue to be a key focus, it goes hand in hand with rehabilitation, reintegration and skill building.”
He said around 1,115 hours of Community Service were performed through the Noarlunga Community Corrections Centre each month, 485 of which were dedicated to the removal of graffiti, equating to more than $155,000 of work each year.
“The benefit to the local community though, in terms of creating a safer and more productive environment, cannot be quantified,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
The Minister said a new Community Corrections Centre would be opened at Gawler in the coming months.
29 July, 2010
Planners plan to plan
Murray/Mallee
A draft plan for the future development of the Murray and Mallee Region has been issued for public comment.Minister for Urban Development and Planning, Paul Holloway said the draft Murray and Mallee Region Plan was a strategic document that would provide a coordinated vision for land use and development across 50,000 square kilometres of the State.
“This region hosts some of our State’s proudest tourist attractions including national parks, the Coorong and the Riverland, as well as heritage rich towns such as Mannum,” Mr Holloway said.
“The region plan aims to ensure the long-term economic and environmental sustainability of the Murray and Mallee’s key agricultural and horticultural industries.
“The plan not only encourages local industries to adapt to changes in weather conditions and water availability, but also seeks to protect and preserve environmental assets such as coastal habitats, wetlands and the River Murray.”
Mr Holloway said the aim of the draft plan was to promote industrial growth, particularly in Tailem Bend, Monarto, Berri and Renmark.
He said the roles and functions of towns would be strengthened, growth managed to protect industry assets, and long-term sustainability considered.
The draft plan also looks at ways to promote the use of renewable energy supplies such as solar, wind and geothermal technologies, and how growth can be managed to protect natural environmental assets along the River Murray, Coorong and Lower Lakes.
Ways to expand nature-based tourism are examined, focusing on the Coorong, the River Murray and the Mallee’s wilderness and conservation parks, as well as how built heritage can be retained and linked with tourism opportunities.
“We know it is important to retain the character of local townships in the region,” Mr Holloway said.
“This plan will help to carefully build stronger links between townships and develop the growing tourism industry by planning for and prioritising where development can and cannot take place.”
The draft plan is the result of collaboration between State Agencies and eight Local Councils, the Murraylands Regional Development Board, Riverland Development Corporation and the Murray Mallee Local Government Association.
The Minister said upon finalisation, the plan would become a volume of the South Australian Planning Strategy, giving it statutory effect and providing formal direction to Local Councils and the private sector for zoning in the future.
Public consultation on the draft plan will run till 23 September.
More information was available from www.dplg.sa.gov.au/go/murray-mallee-plan
29 July, 2010
Police put brakes
on monkey bikes
Police are to crack down on the illegal use of ‘monkey bikes,’ supported by new laws foreshadowed by Attorney-General John Rau.Mr Rau said amendments to the Summary Offences Act 1953 would give police the power to charge the rider of an illegally ridden ‘monkey bike’ with a new offence that carried a fine of up to $5,000.
They would also be able to seize the bike and crush it once the legal proceedings were finalised.
Mr Rau said the miniature motorcycles were dangerous, both on roads and in public spaces.
“They are about half the size of a standard road bike and powered by a petrol motor, able to achieve speeds in excess of 70 kilometres per hour,” Mr Rau said.
“Accidents at such speeds have a very real potential to be fatal.”
He said he had been told of cases where ‘monkey bike’ riders have been killed or seriously injured.
“These bikes have no place on our roads or anywhere else that places the public at risk.”
Mr Rau said the high-pitched noise generated by the bikes was also a nuisance to residents living near where they were ridden.
He said because they did not comply with Vehicle Standards Regulations and Australian Design Rules, the bikes could not be registered and could not be used on any public road or footpath, or in public places.
Mr Rau said the bikes had no redeeming features.
“They are dangerous to the riders and other members of the public, and, they present a noise nuisance,” he said.
“My advice to anyone contemplating buying one of these bikes is – don’t.”
The Attorney-General said the new laws did not apply to mini-motor bikes that could be registered.
29 July, 2010
Flouro recyclers
get green light
A new national scheme to recycle used fluorescent lights has been announced by the Federal Minister for Environment Protection, Peter Garrett.Mr Garrett said the FluoroCycle Scheme would be administered by the Lighting Council of Australia, with the Commonwealth providing $600,000 in support over three years.
“Given that commercial and public lighting accounts for approximately 90 per cent of all lighting waste in Australia, taking it out of the waste stream and putting it into recycling means that we are increasing the recycling of mercury containing lamps and reducing the amount of hazardous waste, like mercury, going to landfill,” Mr Garrett said.
“FluoroCycle is the latest instalment in our commitment to better work with industry and with the States and Territories to improve our waste management, cut red tape and better deal with emerging issues to ensure a more sustainable future.”
The Minister said that with the National Waste Policy, all Governments were looking at waste from a national perspective.
He said the first nationally-supported program to recycle used computers and televisions would commence next year, while experience gained from rolling out FluoroCycle would help with the design of future strategies to keep household waste lamps out of landfill.
Mr Garrett said a key part of FlouroCycle was an outreach program to recruit new members to the scheme.
Recycling programs would also be developed with industry to ensure they were in line with business models.
Under the scheme, businesses and organisations responsible for commercial and public lighting in office blocks, shopping malls, streets, highways, industrial sites and sporting venues could become signatories.
Mr Garrett urged businesses and organisations to get involved.
He acknowledging the support of stakeholders such as CMA EcoCycle, Chemsal, SITA, Lamp Recyclers, the Property Council of Australia, the Facility Management Association of Australia, the National Electrical and Communications Association and the Australian Council of Recyclers in the development of the scheme.
More information is available from www.fluorocycle.org.au
29 July, 2010
Payrise vote
Government employees on weekly pay schedules stand to receive pay rises of $25 a week, as well as better conditions for paid maternity leave, on-call rates and night shift penalties.
The affected staff have been invited to vote on a proposed new Enterprise Agreement which reviews several awards and could include back-pay to October 2009.
Voting ends 9 August.
The proposed new EA could be inspected at www.pswd.sa.gov.au
Insurance call denied
The Public Service Association has rejected claims that professionals working in the public sector should have their own Professional Indemnity Insurance.
The PSA said all Government employees, including professionals, were protected by legislation from being personally sued.
The Union said it was a waste of money as it would not cover employees in relation to any criminal liability and would not protect them from the normal disciplinary process arising from any misconduct.
Forestry EA settled
ForestrySA employees have voted in favour of a new Enterprise Agreement.
The EA will now be lodged with the Industrial Relations Commission of South Australia for approval and a key feature of the arrangement is a new integrated classification structure, replacing five outdated pay structures with a single system.
Recycling hits record
South Australians are recycling more drink containers than ever before.
According to the latest figures, the return rate for all beverage containers increased by 5.6 per cent in the past financial year to an overall record high of 80.1 per cent.
Minister for Environment and Conservation, Paul Caica said the improved return rates coincided with the increase in the refund for drink containers from 5c to 10c introduced in 2008.
Call to name women
South Australians are being urged to put forward more women for Australia Day awards. Minister for the Status of Women, Gail Gago said it was important to ensure women were better recognised.
“There are many people – both men and women - doing great things for their communities and it’s important that women’s contributions are equally acknowledged and rewarded,” Ms Gago said.
Nominations for the Australian of the Year Awards close on 31 August and more information is available from www.australianoftheyear.org.au
Doctors back Gawler
The Government has come to an agreement with GpInc doctors to continue to provide a 24/7 emergency service at Gawler Hospital for the next three years.
Minister for Health, John Hill said Country Health SA had been working closely with the local GPs from GpInc to ensure that high quality emergency services for the Gawler region continued.
“This agreement means that the Gawler Hospitals A&E service will continue to provide the best emergency treatment for the local community, 24-hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.” Mr Hill said.
Rural leaders wanted
Applications have been invited for the 2010 South Australian Rural Leadership Program (SARLP).
The program provides assistance to leaders already forging ahead in their industries and to those who have the potential to become future leaders.
The course provides training to develop the skills needed by leaders and aspiring leaders.
Applications close on 24 September and more information is available from www.pir.sa.gov.au/sarlp
22 July, 2010
New guide for
Annual Reports
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has released a Circular on the preparation of annual reports.The 46-page Circular, PCO13 – Annual Reporting Requirements, provides a guide to mandatory and optional reporting for Agencies and Departments, and includes changes to reporting requirements that have arisen over the past financial year.
According to the Circular, most reporting requirements are set out in the Public Sector Act 2009 or relevant Regulations.
It provides tips on how to create a good annual report and what Agencies should avoid, such as jargon and unnecessary details of marginal activities.
“Annual reports are not promotional publications but can be a rich source of information about government activities in specific areas,” the Circular says.
“As such, they should focus on communicating the levels of success achieved through Agency activities towards Government policy outcomes in the previous financial year and to document the resources used in the process.”
It said information should be clearly set out, demonstrate how Agency objectives align with South Australia’s Strategic Plan (SASP) and what steps were taken towards SASP targets.
“They should also identify major issues or policy challenges that the Agency faces in the near future,” the Circular says.
“Agencies should include in their report significant collaborations with other public sector agencies and/or the wider community, as well as service improvements.”
The Circular also provides guidance on performance reporting.
“Reporting on performance and aligning it with the strategic objectives of the Agency and Government is challenging,” it says.
“However, there is much to gain from better performance reporting, built on robust frameworks that are directly linked to organisational plans, budgets and strategies.”
The circular reminds Agencies that any personal information included in their annual report would be broadly accessible to the public due to the report being published on Agency websites.
“Agencies should take particular care that they are not disclosing personal information outside what is permitted under Information Privacy Principle 10,” it says.
Reporting timeframes, tabling in Parliament, style and formatting preferences and contacts for further information are also outlined in the Circular.
The Circular could be downloaded from www.premcab.sa.gov.au
22 July, 2010
Election candidates
warned by Councils
Candidates standing in the Federal Election have been urged to talk to their Local Councils before erecting advertising signs on poles and other infrastructure in their areas.The Local Government Association (LGA) has already alerted the major parties to new guidelines that now apply.
President of the LGA, Felicity-ann Lewis said the guidelines required candidates to make an application to their Local Council if they wanted to erect election signage, particularly on infrastructure owned by the Department of Transport, Energy and Infrastructure (DTEI) or utilities company ETSA.
Ms Lewis said while there had been conflicting legal advice about the guidelines, the LGA had sought legislative clarification on the matter, with the State Government agreeing with the prepared guidelines.
“In the State Election, one of the legal firms advising Councils suggested that candidates no longer needed approval for signs and we advised candidates and parties of this at the time,” Ms Lewis said.
“We also alerted candidates then that we were seeking further advice and the guidelines would be reviewed.”
She urged candidates to speak to their Councils and fill in the relevant applications.
Ms Lewis said the LGA was aware that signs were going up and called for candidates to comply with the legislation by seeking approvals.
She said the approvals were important, as they ensured the protection of not only the candidates, but residents and motorists as well.
For more information, visit www.lga.sa.gov.au
22 July, 2010
Consultation starts on
job training plans
A round of public consultation sessions has begun to gather feedback on plans to modernise the State’s Vocational Education and Training (VET) system.Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education, Jack Snelling said the sessions would allow people to have their say on the Skills for All report, a 10-point reform program aimed at boosting skill levels to improve workforce participation and productivity.
“The central focus for the reforms is to transform the VET system so that it’s much more responsive to the needs of students and businesses, as well as being better linked to our schools and universities,” Mr Snelling said.
He said the Government had committed to creating another 100,000 jobs over the next six years and needed to provide greater opportunities for people wanting to participate in education and training.
“That’s why we’ve announced we’re spending $194 million to create 100,000 new training positions over that six year period, and to achieve that target, we need to create a fairer, more flexible and modern VET system.”
The Minister said that under the proposed new system, all South Australians would enjoy a Government supported entitlement to undertake education and training.
He said the system would give both individuals and employers the power to choose the skill development opportunities best suited to their needs.
Mr Snelling said the reform package was intended to support a renewed partnership between the State Government, education providers, industry, unions and the community and the Government wanted to hear representatives of all those interest groups.
Consultation sessions are to be held over the next few weeks, with further details on times and locations available at www.dfeest.sa.gov.au. Submissions close 13 August.
22 July, 2010
Population policy
to be reviewed
A review of the State Government’s population policy has been announced.Minister for Industry and Trade, Tom Koutsantonis said the review would ensure South Australia continued to grow in a sustainable way.
“We need our population to grow so that our economy continues to expand, but we also need to take into account the impact of an expanding population on issues such as climate change and water, urban planning, transport, the provision of health services and water infrastructure,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
“We already have comprehensive plans in place to address these factors, including the 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide, Water for Good and the State Infrastructure Plan.”
Mr Koutsantonis said there had been many changes since the last population policy, Prosperity Through People, which was publishedin 2004.
He said that policy had predicted a population decline in the lead-up to 2030, as well as a diminished labour force even sooner.
“What a difference a few years make,” he said.
The Minister said South Australia achieved its net overseas migration target of 8,500 a year in 2005, years ahead of schedule.
He said the State had already exceeded its fertility target of 1.7, with the birth rate at 1.88 per woman.
South Australia’s population is 1,633,900, while the target for 2014 is 1.64 million.
Mr Koutsantonis said projections by the Australian Bureau of Statistics suggested South Australia could be home to between 2 and 2.5 million people in the next 50 years.
He said the policy review followed an announcement by the Federal Government of its own review.
The Minister said the national population statement, due for release in April next year, would inform, and be informed by, South Australia’s revised policy.
He said South Australia’s revised policy was expected to be ready for Cabinet’s consideration by mid next year in order to coordinate with the Federal Government.
Mr Koutsantonis said a whole-of-Government steering group and a team of population experts would help guide future population policy development.
Public consultations are also to be held, with submissions to be called later this year.
22 July, 2010
Arts SA frames
new protocols
Arts SA has developed a set of protocols to address the way children are depicted in the works, publications and exhibitions it funds.The Protocols for working with children in art have been based on those developed by the Australia Council for the Arts, but apply to grants administered by Arts SA.
The protocols aim to help artists and arts organisations understand their legal obligations and to establish responsible steps for artists when they involve children in the creation, exhibition or distribution of their works.
They urge artists to consider their legal and ethical responsibilities regarding the safety of people under 18 years of age.
They say the South Australian Government is committed to upholding and promoting the rights of people to freedom in the practice of the arts, and to encouraging young people’s and children’s involvement.
“However, underpinning this freedom in a civil society is the rule of law and the assumption that publicly funded activity must abide by the law,” the protocols say.
They say they do not affect applicants’ eligibility to be considered for funding, however the expectations outlined are the minimum standards for people seeking grants and must be adhered to.
“Adherence to the relevant laws and to these protocols will be a condition of funding for projects supported by Arts SA,” the protocols say.
The protocols include information on working with children under 15, full and partial nudity, working with kids in public spaces, art distribution, exhibitions, consent, web policies and relevant laws.
Arts SA said it would monitor the protocols and review them after 12 months to ensure they remained consistent with the work of the Australia Council for the Arts and relevant to the SA arts community.
Factsheets on legal information could be accessed at www.artslaw.com.au while the protocols were available at www.arts.sa.gov.au
22 July, 2010
School reports
get high marks
New statistical summaries of school activities and information are to be introduced this year to improve the accountability and transparency of the education sector.Minister for Education, Jay Weatherill said the initiative would allow parents and the community to see published data on issues such as enrolment numbers, retention, attendance and truancy rates, as well as violence and bullying on school grounds.
Mr Weatherill said the Department of Education and Children’s Services would publish the data from 2010 as soon as it became available.
“Greater transparency and accountability about how well our schools are educating our children is essential to ensuring every child receives the highest quality education and opportunities both in and beyond school,” Mr Weatherill said.
“It also is essential if we are to maintain confidence in the excellence and diversity of our public education system.”
The Minister said the move was part of the Government’s effort to create greater transparency in the State’s public school system, and was in line with action being taken nationally.
He gave an assurance that individual student privacy would be protected, saying only statistical summaries would be used to highlight issues in public schools.
Mr Weatherill said figures already collected showed schools were taking a tough stance against bad behaviour.
He said DECS data revealed suspensions had increased from about 1,444 in the 2004 sample period to 1,880 in the 2009 sample period.
The Minister said the latest figures indicated that less than one per cent of the student population was involved in violent behaviour, showing that most students behaved appropriately, but that schools were not tolerating it.
22 July, 2010
Flow increased for
irrigation quotas
Irrigation allocations along the River Murray are to be increased from 21 per cent to 24 per cent due to more water in the system becoming available to South Australia.Minister for the River Murray, Paul Caica said the increase was good news for River Murray irrigators.
“The increase to 24 per cent is based on South Australia receiving a minimum of 1,461 gigalitres during the 2010-11 water year under a ‘worst case’ scenario,” Mr Caica said.
He said the allocation was considerably higher than at the same time last year, when irrigation allocations were kept at the opening entitlement of two per cent.
“In addition to this higher allocation, South Australian River Murray irrigators have access to 100 per cent of their approved carry-over.”
Mr Caica said the Government would advise irrigators of their approved carry-over volume once meter readings at the end of June were finalised.
He cautioned that River Murray storages remained low in comparison to the long-term averages.
The current volume in Hume, Dartmouth, Menindee Lakes and Lake Victoria was 4,036 gigalitres, or 43 per cent capacity, including a large amount of water for private carry-over and critical human needs.
Mr Caica said while this was higher than the same time last year - 1,737 gigalitres, or 19 per cent capacity - it was well below the long-term average for this time of year - 6,660 gigalitres, or 71 per cent capacity.
22 July, 2010
Call for changes
to family law
Leading South Australian and interstate academics have called for changes to the national family law legislation.A study led by Associate Professor Dale Bagshaw of UniSA and Professor Thea Brown of Monash University was commissioned by the Federal Attorney-General to look at the impact of reforms to the Family Law Act that were introduced in 2006.
It surveyed more than 1,000 adults and 112 children, concluding that an overhaul of the system was needed to give children’s safety the highest priority.
Associate Professor Bagshaw said the study revealed that parents who reported family violence were often not believed, while many children were not consulted or asked for their input into new parenting arrangements. If they were, their views were often disregarded.
“Putting the needs of children first was said to be a priority in the 2006 family law reform, yet the children we spoke to felt powerless and that they had no voice,” Professor Bagshaw said.
“There are children who are being subjected to serious abuse and neglect because under the current system shared parenting is given higher priority and children’s voices are often not heard.”
Professor Bagshaw said children wanted to be consulted about parenting arrangements, particularly where there was family violence.
She said there are some cases where parents have separated, and the children are put in a dangerous situation when they spend time alone with the perpetrator.
The 2006 changes to the Family Law Act were supposed to restructure and expand services to promote a change of thinking and behaviour in post-separation parenting.
Instead the study found that, where there was family violence, both men and women were very dissatisfied with responses from lawyers, Family Relationship Centres, Centrelink, the Child Support Agency and the Family Courts.
Professor Bagshaw said respondents to the survey did not think the services understood family violence, its impact on them or on their children, either before or after the 2006 legislation.
The study also found that a presence or a history of family violence affected mothers, fathers and children in terms of their decisions to separate, to access services, how they used them and how they parented post separation.
The report is available at www.apo.org.au
22 July, 2010
Crime crackdown
pays for police
Official figures from South Australia Police show the level of recorded crime fell five per cent during 2009.Minister for Police, Michael Wright said the biggest decline had been in offences against the person - particularly murders, attempted murders, serious assaults, rapes and attempted rapes, as well as assaults on police.
Mr Wright attributed the decline to having one of the nation’s best police services.
“This didn’t happen by accident, but through a partnership with our police,” Mr Wright said.
The Minister said the Government had invested in operational equipment and recruitment, and had also introduced laws to make it easier for police to do their job.
He said South Australia now had 4,400 sworn officers– up 700 from 2002 – with a further 300 recruits promised during the State election earlier this year.
He said this gave South Australia more police officers per head of population than any other State in Australia.
“We know that having an increased police presence in our communities acts as an effective crime deterrent,” Mr Wright said.
The Minister released the latest crime statistics during a visit to the United States, where he was touring the New York Police Department’s Real Time Crime Centre, which gives field officers and detectives instant and comprehensive information to help identify patterns and stop emerging crime trends.
He said police needed access to the latest technologies to target, prevent and solve crimes in order to make communities safer.
22 July, 2010
Water plan
waved away
The Murray-Darling Basin Authority has announced it will delay releasing its Guide to the proposed Murray-Darling Basin Plan until at least August due to the Federal election.The decision was made following a discussion of Authority members, who decided that deferring the release date would be consistent with the election caretaker period conventions.
In a statement the Authority said the release date would be considered at the end of August.
“The Authority understands the significant community interest in what the Proposed Basin Plan will put forward and is keen to provide stakeholders, irrigators and Basin communities with the opportunity of finding out what the Authority is proposing,” it said.
The draft plan was originally expected to be released this month.
Chief Executive of the National Irrigators Council, Danny O’Brien told the ABC however that the delay was not justified.
Mr O’Brien said he believed caretaker conventions related only to major policy decisions,
“This is not a major policy decision,” Mr O’Brien said, “It is the guide to the plan, to the draft plan in fact.
“Even the Authority has made it clear that this is a discussion paper.”
He said the Government would not be asked to make a decision on the Basin plan until next year.
“The guide should be released as soon as possible,” Mr O’Brien said.
22 July, 2010
Education projects
to build SA skills
Two new education and training projects to improve skills in the South Australian health and construction fields have been announced by the Commonwealth Government.A new health learning hub at the University of South Australia - Participate@UniSA - will receive $30 million, almost a third of its entire cost and $8.2 million will be put towards Civil Train SA’s $12.8 million Civil Train Highway to Skilling Industry project, to deliver civil construction skills via six new training simulators.
Federal Minister for Education, Simon Crean and Minister for Innovation, Senator Kim Carr said the Commonwealth was investing in the growth sectors of health and construction, which were crucial to South Australia’s economy.
“We are investing in the education and training of South Australians that will give them world-class skills that are in demand around the globe,” Mr Crean said.
Eventually the two projects will benefit up to 20,000 South Australian students a year, he said.
The funding comes from the Sustainability Round of the Federal Government’s Education Investment Fund.
Senator Carr said the initiative had injected funds into the higher education, vocational education and training, and research sectors.
“With the Commonwealth investment in these two major projects, South Australia will be better positioned to help Australia to meet its skills needs and lift its innovation performance in the future,” Senator Carr said.
Participate@UniSA will help meet the growing community need for people with skills in nursing, pharmacy, midwifery, podiatry, physiotherapy, dietetics, nutrition, and medical sciences.
It will support 1,872 additional students and 166 new onsite jobs during the construction phase, as well as one new research group.
Located near the new Royal Adelaide Hospital, the hub will include a new seven-storey building, a redeveloped library space and a state-of-the-art, multi-disciplinary health clinic.
The Civil Train SA project will provide six new simulators, along with a redeveloped building in Thebarton to house them.
A mobile training unit and simulator will also be created to travel the State.
“The Civil Train Highway to Skilling Industry project is expected to reach around 5,150 students during its first three years, of which 1,500 will be from Indigenous or disadvantaged backgrounds,” Mr Crean said.
Students will learn civil construction skills, helping them to become job-ready.
The mobile facility is to visit Port Augusta, Whyalla, Flinders Ranges, the Eyre Peninsula, the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunyjtatjara lands and other parts of South Australia.
22 July, 2010
Driving on drugs a
‘high’ risk policy
Official police figures showing that 90 people test positive to ‘drug’ driving in South Australia every month have disappointed State Premier, Mike Rann.Mr Rann said of the 46,400 drivers tested for drugs on the State’s roads over the past financial year, 1,100 were reported by police for a drug driving offence.
“On average, 20 per cent of all drivers killed on our roads test positive to detectable quantities of prohibited drugs in their system each year,” Mr Rann said.
“People who drive while under the influence of drugs, such as cannabis, methyl amphetamine or ecstasy put lives at risk – and actually feature in a significant number of road deaths.”
He said drug driving was just as “dangerous and stupid” as drink driving.
The Premier pointed to figures showing that the drug driving detection rate was more than double that of drink driving.
He said the figures were just one reason why the Government increased penalties for drug driving offences in 2008.
Mr Rann said education to dispel the safety myths surrounding drug driving was needed on top of penalties to reduce offences.
He said the Motor Accident Commission would launch an education campaign on 25 July to challenge the view that it was safe to trust people who had consumed drugs to drive.
Mr Rann said the campaign would focus on young men as they were the most common offenders.
22 July, 2010
Energy report is
power to SA
A new report into opportunities for renewable energy in South Australia could position the State as a national leader.Premier, Mike Rann said the document was a blueprint showing how South Australia could establish itself as a significant green energy power house.
Mr Rann said the study – commissioned by the State Government’s Renewables SA and conducted by a consortium of consultants – estimated that $4.5 billion in green power investment for the Eyre Peninsula would be rolled out between 2015 and 2018.
“It says $1.8 billion would be spent in South Australia which would include building strategic transmission lines to tap into the Eyre Peninsula’s outstanding wind resource,” Mr Rann said.
He said the Eyre Peninsula’s four major wind zones had the capacity to generate a potential 10,000 megawatts of power.
The Premier said the report showed that Stage One of the project could attract $4.5 billion in a further 2,000 megawatts of wind power in the State, adding to the near 1,000 megawatts of wind power already installed.
He said it also indicated that an additional 1,000 megawatts of wind generation could be accommodated within the State’s existing grid.
Mr Rann said four internationally experienced wind energy companies had already expressed interest in the project and the report established that the project would be commercially viable and would not need direct State Government financial involvement.
He said the report showed South Australia had the potential to contribute 30 per cent of Australia’s renewable energy target.
“The report estimates that the project could create 1,400 direct construction jobs and a further 1,600 indirect jobs in the construction phase and 266 ongoing jobs,” Mr Rann said.
“The lion’s share of the construction activity would be on the Eyre Peninsula.”
The Premier said that while the project would require changes to Federal regulation, the benefits highlighted in the report – including savings in greenhouse gases estimated at 2.75 million tonnes of CO2 per annum across the National Electricity Market – would hopefully accelerate the decision-making timetable.
22 July, 2010
Boaters’ warning
floated by DTEI
The Department of Transport, Energy and Infrastructure has warned boat operators that laws governing registration, licensing and marine safety equipment apply right across the State.General Manager of Transport Safety Regulation at DTEI, Trent Rusby said it was important for boat owners to remember the rules of boating safety applied to all waters in South Australia including temporarily filled areas such as Lake Eyre.
“The recent flooding in remote areas serves as a timely reminder to all boat operators that the usual requirements for registration, licensing and carriage of safety equipment apply to all South Australian waters,” Mr Rusby said.
“It’s your responsibility to be properly equipped and prepared for all emergencies prior to boating in South Australia, including recently flooded remote outback areas.”
Mr Rusby said recreational boats were required to carry a personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board, two red hand-held flares and two orange smoke signals.
“It is important that each person on board has an approved PFD for the activity and conditions that they intend to boat in and that it fits correctly,” he said.
Mr Rusby also urged boat operators to exercise caution when out on the water, particularly when visiting areas like Lake Eyre.
“The recent northern floods at Lake Eyre are a rare event which people can enjoy but I urge them to do so safely,” he said.
Mr Rusby said about 70 per cent of Lake Eyre’s surface was currently covered with water.
“This doesn’t equate to a lot of volume so anyone who ventures out there with their boat needs to do so with caution,” he said.
“Boat operators should also be aware of potential hazards under the water in these newly flooded areas including submerged bushes and logs.”
Further information about marine safety was available at www.sa.gov.au/boatingmarine
22 July, 2010
Finance seminars
on the money
A series of free financial seminars focusing on superannuation and wealth creation is being conducted by Centrelink this month and during August.The seminars aim to provide people of all ages with information on investing for the future.
Run by Centrelink’s Financial Information Service, the ‘Getting Started’ seminars include practical information on savings and wealth creation, superannuation, income streams, salary sacrifice/packaging and Centrelink payments and services.
Coordinator of the Centrelink Financial Information Service (FIS) for South Australia, Glenn Trenwith said the seminars were held every six months and were free and independent.
“You don’t have to be a Centrelink customer to attend one of these seminars which assist people to achieve a better retirement lifestyle through the best use of their own resources,” Mr Trenwith said.
He said FIS officers offered unbiased financial information to members of the local community.
“We are not financial planners, we don’t sell advice or purchase investment products, and FIS officers aren’t able to make decisions on anyone’s pension or financial choices,” Mr Trenwith said.
He said holding the seminars allowed Centrelink to give people the confidence to deal with financial matters and to improve their understanding of their own financial affairs.
Mr Trenwith said the seminars alerted people to the risk levels of various financial strategies and products and explained the role of financial industry professionals.
He said bookings were essential and could be made by phoning 13 63 57.
The seminars are to be held in Fullarton, Marion, Modbury and Adelaide.
22 July, 2010
New standard for
children’s care
A set of draft national standards for protecting children in foster homes and other out-of-home care has been released by the Federal Minister for Families and Community Services, Jenny Macklin.Ms Macklin said under the standards, State Governments and the Commonwealth would work together to strengthen out-of-home care for children across Australia.
“Currently, child protection systems vary markedly across the country with each State and Territory having its own child protection policy, standards and legislation,” Ms Macklin said.
“Out-of-home care standards will provide a national benchmark for the care of children who are no longer with their parents, no matter where they live.”
She said the 14 draft national standards focused on key areas including health, education and training, increased carer support and improving transition planning for young people.
Under the proposed reforms, Ms Macklin said children entering care would receive a comprehensive health assessment and have their own written health record that would move with them if they changed placements.
She said individual education plans would be developed, implemented, and reviewed regularly for children and young people in care, while carers would be assessed and receive ongoing training, development and support.
The Minister said the standards would provide young people with a transition from care plan from the age of 15, detailing the support to be provided after they left care.
She said the plan would be reviewed at least once a year and include input from children and young people.
Developed with input from all States and Territories, the national standards for out-of-home care are among the key actions to be taken under the National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children 2009-2020.
The National Framework was delivered last year to help protect vulnerable children.
Ms Macklin said as of 30 June 2009 there were over 34,000 children living in out-of-home care, a 9.3 per cent increase on the 2007-08 year.
Further information on the standards was available from www.fahcsia.gov.au
22 July, 2010
Chase for speedsters
SA Police is to trial the StarChase Pursuit Management System in 10 of its patrol vehicles in a bid to reduce dangerous high-speed car pursuits.
Under the StarChase system, Police can fire a miniature GPS receiver at suspect vehicles to allow them to be tracked easily and from a distance.
The United States’ Arizona Department of Public Safety is currently using the system which won the 2008 Innovation Award at the International Association of Chiefs of Police Annual Conference.
Holiday date announced
The 2011 Adelaide Cup Day public holiday will again be held in March next year to coincide with the festival calendar.
Adelaide Cup race day will be held on Monday 14 March.
The day has been a public holiday since 2006, and has been transferred on a trial basis from the third Monday in May to the second Monday in March.
Extra preschool hours
Almost one thousand children are to get extra hours of preschool this term as 38 preschools join up to the State and Federal Government program aimed at increasing their access to the service.
Minister for Education and Early Childhood Development, Jay Weatherill said hours were being boosted from a minimum of 11 to 15 per week under the Universal Access program.
Mr Weatherill said the program was being progressively rolled out to preschools across the State and had commenced at 98 preschools in Term 1 this year.
New Indigenous resource
Senior secondary teachers are to receive new CD-Rom resource on Indigenous history after State Records and the SACE Board of South Australia worked together to assemble a set of original documents from State Records’ archives.
The documents relate to the lives of Aboriginal people in South Australia and their experiences with Government in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The primary source materials have been labelled as appropriate for use in Year 10 History, Aboriginal Studies and Society and Culture classes. The free CD-Rom could be ordered from www.archives.sa.gov.au
Veteran cook-off
A cook-off by former Australian Defence Force cooks has been held as part of Veterans’ Health Week.
Veterans’ Health Week, which runs until 25 July, is aimed at encouraging war veterans, war widows and widowers to think about their health and re-evaluate their diet to ensure they live healthier and happier lives.
Deputy Commissioner for the Department of Veterans’ Affairs in South Australia, Ian Kelly said over half of Australians didn’t pay enough attention to their diet and exercise, and that it was no different in the veteran community.
A list of other Veterans’ Health Week activities was available at www.dva.gov.au
Sea dumping targeted
Fisheries Officers have stepped up their patrols in an effort to combat sea dumping.
Minister for Fisheries, Michael O’Brien said additional resources would also be committed to curb illegal dumping in South Australian waters.
Mr O’Brien called on the public to assist the campaign by reporting any suspicious ocean dumping activity to the Fishwatch hotline on 1800 065 522.
15 July, 2010
Compensation study
pays dividends
A study of workers’ compensation claims by Safe Work Australia has revealed that people in the health and community services sector are the most stressed, with those in education not far behind.Chair of Safe Work Australia, Tom Phillips said the data showed around 7,000 claims were made each year for mental stress, each costing as much as three times more than other claims because of processing times.
“It is concerning to find that there are many Australian workers suffering from mental stress, which can have a very significant impact on people’s ability to function at work and at home,” Mr Phillips said.
He said the study found health and community workers such as law enforcement officers, nurses and ambulance personnel were the most stressed, along with male train and bus drivers.
Mr Phillips said mental stress claims cost an average of $15,500 compared to the $5,400 average for other claims and entailed more time off work – around 11 weeks compared to an average of 4 weeks for other claims.
He said Safe Work Australia supported Lifeline’s ‘Stress Down Day’ which aims to raise awareness of stress in the workplace and to focus on ways to reduce it.
Chief Executive of Lifeline, Dawn O’Neil said her organisation was proud to be working with Safe Work Australia to improve the community’s awareness of mental stress.
“At the end of the day, Australians are too stressed and we are not managing our stress well enough,” Ms O’Neil said.
“That’s why we are bringing these facts into the light today, we want people to better manage their stress.”
Ms O’Neil encouraged people to wear their slippers, dress up or dress down for Stress Down Day.
Mr Phillips said Stress Down Day – to be held on 23 July – was a great opportunity for Australian workers and employers to assess their current working environments to help recognise when a colleague needed support.
Further information on Stress Down Day was available from www.stressdown.org.au
15 July, 2010
Easter holiday
eggs-tended
Easter is to be celebrated with a five-day break next year following proclamation of Tuesday 26 April as a special public holiday.Minister for Industrial Relations, Paul Holloway said Anzac Day would fall on Easter Monday next year, which was also a public holiday.
He said making the 26 April a public holiday would preserve the significance of 25 April as Anzac Day.
“Marches and ceremonies to commemorate Anzac Day will be held on 25 April,” Mr Holloway said.
“The extended long weekend will enable the community to celebrate Easter, participate in sport, recreational and family activities, or to attend Anzac Day ceremonies.”
He said the decision also ensured that the community enjoyed the same number of public holidays as it did most years.
Mr Holloway said SafeWork SA had consulted stakeholders about the change and would also talk with retail industry groups about the implications for shop trading arrangements during the five-day period.
He said details of trading arrangements will be announced closer to Easter next year.
The Minister said the last time Easter Monday fell on 25 April was in 1859 - well before the first Anzac Day - and would not happen again until 2095.
“In these unusual circumstances, a special public holiday ensures that the normal entitlements of employees are preserved,” Mr Holloway said.
“Most employers, including Government Agencies, would have budgeted for two separate public holidays each year.”
He said some industries could benefit from the arrangement through savings incurred by avoiding separate shut-down and start-up costs.
Mr Holloway said other States and Territories were planning to declare the Tuesday after Easter next year as a public holiday as well.
15 July, 2010
Re-organisation stirs
organised resistance
The Department for Families and Communities has proposed plans to reorganise the unit that manages adoptions and provides support for former wards of the State.DFC’s Adoption, Family Information and Post Care Services unit has been targeted for restructure in a bid to streamline management structures without reducing client services.
A spokesperson for DFC said the Department was undertaking a three-month consultation on the proposal.
“This involves a working group to ensure that all aspects set out in the Enterprise Agreement between the Department and its employees are met,” the spokesperson said.
“It is imperative to note that no decision has been made.”
The Public Service Association (PSA) has raised concerns about the proposed restructure of the 20-person unit, saying it would result in the loss of up to five positions, including the Manager and Business Manager.
Secretary of the PSA, Jan McMahon said the union had lodged a dispute with the DFC and would fight the changes.
Ms McMahon said the restructure was being proposed in an attempt to save money as the Government seeks to cut $750 million from the State Budget.
“Cutting senior and internationally respected staff from this vital service makes no sense,” Ms McMahon said.
She said disbanding a “highly skilled and professional interactive unit” to meet Budget costs discarded those people who required the service the most and potentially breached Clause 25 of the SA Government Wages Parity (Salaried) Enterprise Agreement 2010, which requires Agencies to “consult in good faith” and not simply advise employees of changes.
She said workplace changes that would affect a significant number of employees should not be implemented before consultation had taken place with employees’ representatives.
However the spokesperson for DFC denied the Department wasn’t consulting on the plan.
“The Department for Families and Communities refutes the Public Service Association’s assertion that we have breached the consultation clauses of the Enterprise Agreement,” the spokesperson said.
“The PSA is commenting on some proposed changes in reporting lines and some individual functions which are currently the subject of consultation.”
15 July, 2010
Union snarls at
traffic plans
A plan for more traffic police outside the city could see Adelaide’s Police motorcycle fleet cut from 50 to 22 members.Deputy Police Commissioner, Gary Burns said SAPOL wanted to place 30 officers with specialised traffic experience in country areas to combat regional fatalities which made up 70 per cent of the State’s fatal crashes so far this year.
“[Motorcycles] have a role to play, they are highly manoeuvrable and they are very much suited to the city in high volume traffic areas,” Deputy Commissioner Burns said.
“What we want is police out on the roads in the country areas and the best option is a motor vehicle.”
Deputy Commissioner Burns said there was general agreement with the new traffic model, despite there being “a lot of emotion” as some officers would continue their traffic duties in a car rather than on their bike.
“We’re looking at exactly how many (motorcycles) we need considering our model is really concentrating now on country roads,” he said.
“What we’re aiming to do is put far more police into the country in traffic specialist positions, so we’ll increase our numbers by around about 77 per cent in key locations throughout the country.”
The move has been met with resistance from the Police Association, with president Mark Carroll, saying placing extra police in country areas should not come at the expense of metropolitan Adelaide.
Mr Carroll said with the additional police recruitment undertaken by the Government, SAPOL should be able to find 30 officers to serve in new country traffic roles without cutting back on motorbike officer numbers.
He said motorcycle police were able to provide a highly mobile and efficient response to all policing incidents due to their ability to manoeuvre in and around tight and congested locations.
“It scarcely seems excessive to maintain a contingent of 50 motorcycle officers,” Mr Carroll said.
Mr Carroll called on SAPOL to make the plan open to public debate.
“Neither the Government nor the community should just accept this radical reduction if they are not convinced it is in the public interest,” he said.
15 July, 2010
Funding to heat up
bushfire campaign
The campaign to promote bushfire awareness and improve community education under the Prepare, Act, and Survive strategy is to be bolstered with an extra $12.9 million in funding over the next four years.Minister for Emergency Services, Michael Wright said the move would help residents adequately prepare for this year’s fire danger season, as would Bushfire Awareness Week, which is to be held from 10 to 17 October.
Mr Wright said the extra funds would help replicate last year’s successful campaign, which included television ads and radio and print announcements.
“At the end of last season, independent market research revealed that the overall education and awareness strategy was extremely successful, and we want to continue building on that to ensure the message reaches and is heeded by every South Australian,” Mr Wright said.
“Our target was to raise the awareness of people living in bushfire prone areas by 20 per cent to 95 per cent by the end of the 2009-10 danger season.”
He said the survey results showed that by February 2010, 99 per cent of respondents could recall ‘Prepare, Act, Survive’ bushfire awareness advertising.
Mr Wright said while he was happy with the survey results, more work could always be done.
“Public education is so crucial in our community, given our climate and the conditions it brings,” he said.
“Being Bushfire Ready is a shared responsibility and people should be under no illusions that the potential for a dangerous and life threatening bushfire is very real.”
Mr Wright said additional resources would also be dedicated to face-to-face education and instigating behavioural changes required to ensure people survive major bushfires.
15 July, 2010
New growth for
garden website
A popular website set up by the Botanic Gardens of Adelaide is to be expanded beyond the metropolitan area.The Landscapes Alive Plant Selector website, launched in 2008, will now help gardeners and landscapers in the Tumby Bay, Ceduna and Lower Eyre Peninsula Council regions create a sustainable garden.
Until recently it only contained information for the Adelaide metropolitan area.
Spokesperson for the Sustainable Landscapes Project, Sheryn Pitman said the success of the website had led its expansion.
Ms Pitman said the website would help everyone from gardening novices to professional landscapers select plants that would thrive in a garden, park, road verge or roundabout.
“The website has been a huge success since its launch in 2008, and earlier this year we added plant information for the regional areas of Loxton Waikerie and Port Augusta,” Ms Pitman said.
“We have now undertaken extensive research and collation of plant information for the regional areas of Tumby Bay, Ceduna and Lower Eyre Peninsula, and have included both native and exotic plants which require minimum supplementary water and are non-invasive.”
She said the user friendly website would give residents over 100 plants to choose from in each region, with approximately 80 per cent native and 20 per cent exotic.
Plants for all three regions include groundcovers, climbers, grasses, sedges, small and medium shrubs and small and large trees.
“A gardener or landscaper can select their own suburb and the kind of plants they would like to grow, and the website will present a range of plants suitable for the local environment,” Ms Pitman said.
The website was available at www.environment.sa.gov.au/plantselector
15 July, 2010
PS has formula for
science awards
Public Servants are prominent among the finalists for the 2010 South Australian Science Excellence Awards, announced recently.Minister for Science and Information Economy, Jack Snelling said there had been a record number of nominations this year and described the finalists as “diverse” and “outstanding.”
Mr Snelling said Finalists in the South Australian Scientist of the Year category included Professor Tanya Monro from the University of Adelaide; Professor Allan Pring of the South Australian Museum; Professor Anthony Thomas from the University of Adelaide; and Professor Angel Lopez from SA Pathology.
“These outstanding scientists epitomise the exceptional talent we have here in our State and it’s through award programs like the South Australian Science Excellence Awards that we’re able to offer recognition and acknowledgement of their important work,” Mr Snelling said.
He congratulated the Public Servants selected as finalists in the award categories relating to Excellence in Research.
He said the PS finalists for Excellence in Research Commercialisation included Professor Zbigniew Michalewicz of the University of Adelaide and the Oat Breeding Team from the South Australian Research and Development Institute.
Finalists for the Excellence in Research for Public Good included the Department of Water, Land, and Biodiversity Conservation’s Bookpurnong Experiment; Dr Lisa Jamieson from the University of Adelaide; and Dr Helen Marshall from the Children, Youth and Women’s Health Service.
In the Excellence in Research Collaboration category finalists included Professor Andrew Lowe of the University of Adelaide and Flinders University’s Medical Device Partnering Program.
Christine Chapman of Kadina Primary School is a finalist for School Science Educator of the Year, while finalists for Tertiary Science Educator of the Year include Dr Kathryn Paige of the University of South Australia, Associate Professor Simon Pyke of the University of Adelaide, and Professor Joe Shapter of Flinders University.
Finalists in the Community Science Educator of the Year category include Doug Bardsley of the University of Adelaide and Professor Barry Brook of the University of Adelaide.
Mr Snelling said winners of the 2010 awards would be announced on 13 August, with $50,000 in funding going to the SA Scientist of the Year and $10,000 to winners in other categories.
More information was available from www.scienceawards.sa.gov.au
15 July, 2010
Student inventions
are top class ideas
South Australian high school students have excelled in the Questacon Smart Moves Invention Convention held in Canberra recently.The students travelled to Canberra for a week of seminars and workshops, where they learned the skills necessary to turn their ideas into a product or business.
Director of the National Science and Technology Centre known as Questacon, Professor Graham Durant said he was impressed with the diversity of innovations from the South Australian participants.
“The range of ideas show great ingenuity and have a focus on solving problems within the delegates’ community,” Professor Durant said.
He said ideas presented by the South Australian students included an innovation to keep your doona in place at night, a jar with a magnet instead of a screw top, a way of keeping track of AFL statistics in real-time and an idea to reduce the number of back injuries for equestrians.
Twenty-two delegates from across Australia attended this year’s Invention Convention, of which six were from Naracoorte High School - the largest group from any one school or region.
“It is a remarkable achievement for six delegates to come from one school,” Professor Durant said.
“Naracoorte High School seems to be taking a lead on teaching innovation to ensure that the next generation of Australian inventors are able to pursue their ideas and work towards making them a reality.”
The students from Naracoorte High School developed their inventions as part of the school’s Advanced Learning curriculum.
The Invention Convention is part of the Questacon Smart Moves program, which travels to high schools in regional and remote Australia with the aim of inspiring young Australians to pursue future careers in science, technology and mathematics.
Over 190 young Australians have participated in the Invention Convention since 2003, with many going on develop their ideas further and a number achieving commercial success.
15 July, 2010
Workplace watchdog
gets down to work
Inspectors from the Office of the Fair Work Ombudsman are to visit about 200 South Australian businesses in the next three weeks, dropping off information packs and offering advice to employers under the national workplace relations system. About 100 businesses in West Beach, Gumeracha and Birdwood will be visited, along with 50 businesses in Murray Bridge, and a further 50 in Whyalla and Roxby Downs.
SA Director at the Fair Work Ombudsman, Carey Trundle said the informal educational visits aimed to help employers understand changes to national workplace laws, including the introduction of the National Employment Standards and Modern Awards.
Ms Trundle said the information packs included fact sheets, templates, Best Practice Guides and advice on practical steps employers could take to adjust to the new system.
“We are very serious about our job of building knowledge and creating fairer workplaces and we are strongly focused on ensuring the community understands its workplace rights and obligations,” Ms Trundle said.
She advised business operators to get the basics right to help everything else “fall into place.”
“By the basics, I mean knowing what Award applies to your employees, what the correct classifications for your employees are and what pay rates apply,” Ms Trundle said.
She said this year the Fair Work Ombudsman would make educational visits to 5,000 employers across South Australia, with additional visits planned for 2011 and 2012.
15 July, 2010
Obesity program
is scaled up
Four more Local Councils have joined the Obesity Prevention and Lifestyle program (OPAL), to encourage families in their areas to lead healthy and active lives.From September, the Cities of Charles Sturt, Port Adelaide Enfield, Whyalla and the District Council of the Copper Coast will join the six Councils already in the program.
Minister for Health, John Hill said with a quarter of South Australian children and over half of SA adults overweight, OPAL was an important way to encourage communities to live healthier lives.
“Poor nutrition and a lack of exercise can have a serious effect on the lives of families and their children, as well as the health system and the State’s economy,” Mr Hill said.
“The OPAL program aims to create a supportive community environment and encourage healthy lifestyles to help head off the obesity and chronic disease that can blight people’s lives.”
Mr Hill said he was excited to see so many areas and people across SA working to achieve healthier outcomes for their children and families.
The Minister said the new Councils signing up to OPAL would soon be working with local communities to come up with ways of making them healthier.
Existing Councils participating in the program are the City of Marion, City of Mount Gambier, City of Onkaparinga, City of Playford, City of Port Augusta and City of Salisbury.
OPAL is funded by the Federal, State and Local Governments.
15 July, 2010
Reservoir overflow
is dam good idea
Approval has been given for SA Water to release flows from the Tod Reservoir later this month as part of a program to improve water quality.Head of Regional Operations at SA Water, Rob Dowling said the Eyre Peninsula Natural Resources Management Board (EPNRMB) had given SA Water a permit to discharge water from the reservoir into the Tod River during times of significant flows during winter.
“Welcome rainfall across the Eyre region in recent weeks has resulted in good flows above 45 megalitres per day at the Tod Reservoir discharge point,” Mr Dowling said.
“It’s this consistent flow level we have required to start discharging from the Tod Reservoir and now we are informing key stakeholders of our plans to do so.”
Mr Dowling said SA Water had been working with relevant Government Agencies and the EPNRMB to develop a discharge plan.
“The agreed plan will allow us to free up some capacity in the reservoir for natural intake from rainfall,” he said.
Mr Dowling said the Tod Reservoir had not been used as a drinking water source since 2002 due to water quality issues, but remained a contingency water supply for the Eyre region.
He said the discharge process aimed to improve the quality of the supply, with the permit allowing water to be released from the reservoir into the river when flows reached 45 megalitres per day.
Once the discharge began, water quality monitoring would occur upstream and downstream of the discharge point.
“Discharge will stop when flows drop below 45 megalitres,” Mr Dowling said.
“Properties downstream of the reservoir may notice increased flows in the Tod River, however we do not expect it to be significantly higher than an average winter flow.”
He said while the discharge aimed to improve the reservoir’s water quality, he did not expect salinity levels to reach the required national drinking water guideline levels.
“There are no plans to reinstate the Tod Reservoir as a drinking water source,” he said.
15 July, 2010
Station upgrade
on right track
The Federal Government is to fund a major car park upgrade for Smithfield Station.Minister for Transport, Patrick Conlon said the upgrade would provide for future growth in the northern suburbs.
“We expect patronage at this station will increase significantly by 2018 due to large developments in the area and population growth,” Mr Conlon said.
“In 2008 we were the only State Government to successfully lobby for significant Federal contributions to public transport and this is the latest in a host of upgrades being undertaken on the Gawler line.”
He said construction was expected to start later this year and was due to be completed by the end of 2010.
Mr Conlon said the upgrade would provide an extra 97 car spaces on the eastern side of Smithfield station, bringing the car parking capacity to over 240.
He said the upgrade would also address traffic congestion and safety issues, with the construction of a Kiss and Go facility on the eastern side of the station and plans for extra lighting and the installation of CCTV.
Mr Conlon said the upgrade was just one of a number of projects already underway or scheduled, including the Elizabeth and Munno Para Stations.
Member for Wakefield, Nick Champion welcomed the announcement.
“I know many Smithfield residents who will feel much safer using Smithfield station as a result of these upgrades,” Mr Champion said.
“Together with the Federal Government’s $294 million electrification of the Gawler rail line, this will make transport even easier for northern suburbs residents commuting in and out of the city.”
Further information on the upgrade was available at www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au
15 July, 2010
Museum joins Library
for community day
The State Library of South Australia is pairing with the South Australian Museum to bring a photographic display from its collection to Murray Bridge at a community day on 31 July.As part of the ‘Out of the Glass Case Roadshow’, the Library will be sharing photos and stories of the Murray Lands with members of the local community.
At the free community day, the Library will demonstrate its LibGuide, Murray Bridge: Retro to Reality, and share other online resources accessible to regional South Australians.
Museum staff will also be present on the day to help community members discover the Murray Land’s fossil history and to answer questions from the public.
An interactive musical adventure on Diprotodons, the pre-historic giant wombat-like-creatures, will be held along with an exhibition exploring the life and lands of the Ngarrindjeri nation.
The travelling Ngarrindjeri exhibition was developed in association with the Ngarrindjeri community.
A Discovery Desk will also be available on the day to allow members of the public to identify any natural objects or specimens they’ve found.
A display of fossils from the Murray River will be available, along with hands-on activities sifting and analysing sand from the Murray Bridge region.
Dr Keryn Walshe from the SA Museum will be on hand to teach the community about artefacts and how to handle them and the mysteries of owl pellets and their role in science will be unravelled.
Other programs to be held on 31 July include how to conserve valuable items, a collection of fossil shells, how to attract butterflies and an artistic demonstration.
The community day is supported by SA Murray-Darling Basin NRMB, Department of Education and Children’s Services, Beach Energy, UniSA School of Built and Natural Environments, Santos and ABC Local Radio SA.
Further information was available from www.samuseum.sa.gov.au
15 July, 2010
SA doing good job on
employment figures
Employment figures for June released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show a record number of South Australians in jobs, according to Acting Treasurer, Paul Holloway.Mr Holloway said the total number of people employed in South Australia in trend terms in June remained steady at a record high of 802,400.
“Significantly, full time employment in SA in June rose by 200 to reach 541,000 – the ninth consecutive monthly rise,” Mr Holloway said.
He said the ABS figures showed the State’s economy continued to be resilient, with only a slight rise in the headline unemployment rate of 0.1 percentage points to 5.4 per cent, the same figure recorded in June last year.
“Pleasingly, the youth unemployment rate in South Australia in June fell by 4.5 percentage points to 23.4 per cent - the second monthly fall in a row – and below the national rate of 25.1 per cent,” Mr Holloway said.
“The participation rate in trend terms remained steady in June at 63.2 per cent, again indicating that South Australians continue to have confidence in their ability to find a job.”
He said the June figures showed growth in total employment in SA of 16.1 per cent since 2002.
Mr Holloway said 111,400 new jobs had been created in South Australia over the past eight years.
The Acting Treasurer said the State Government would spend $194 million to help create an extra 100,000 apprenticeships and training places to drive growth in key industries such as mining, defence, renewable energy, tourism, education, food and wine, and manufacturing.
15 July, 2010
CFS lands aircraft
for bushfire season
The Country Fire Service is to have access to at least 15 aircraft for the coming fire danger season, including the Erikson Air Crane.Minister for Emergency Services, Michael Wright said funding for aerial firefighting would also receive an extra boost.
Mr Wright said the Air Crane would arrive mid-December for a 12-week period, taking the Government’s investment in aerial firefighting to over $7 million, well in excess of the $800,000 spent back in 2002.
Mr Wright said aircraft firefighting capabilities were crucial to battling fires in South Australia, with firefighting aircraft accruing 653 hours of flying time during the last bushfire season.
He said basing the Erikson Air Crane in South Australia for this year’s fire season would be of enormous help and comfort to firefighters.
Aside from the Erikson Air Crane, the fleet available to the CFS in the coming season would include seven fixed wing water bombers, two medium volume helicopters, a surveillance helicopter, three fixed winged surveillance craft and access to the Adelaide Bank Rescue Helicopter and fixed wing bombers.
“The return of the Erikson Aircraft will work to ensure that South Australia has the broadest range of aerial fire fighting coverage,” Mr Wright said.
“It will complement the aerial fire fighting diversity, with a total of 15 surveillance and water bombing aircraft at our disposal, which helps accelerates response times to bushfires.”
15 July, 2010
Councils urged
to go to waste
Local Councils have been urged to sign up for two programs designed to divert more waste from landfill.Minister for Environment and Conservation, Paul Caica said Councils could apply for a share in $6.1 million to help roll-out food waste recycling initiatives as part of the Food Waste Incentives Program or$1.6 million for the Regional Implementation Program.
“Food waste recycling incentives will make it easier to recycle food waste materials and can be implemented without any change to the weekly collection of residual rubbish bins by metropolitan Councils,” Mr Caica said.
“On average, each household throws out about three kilograms of food waste a week, resulting in more than 90,000 tonnes of food waste per year going to landfill.”
He said if 70 per cent of metropolitan Adelaide Councils took up food waste recycling schemes and around 70 per cent of households in those Council areas participated, an estimated 30,000 tonnes of food waste could be diverted from landfill.
“This is equivalent to 3,000 truckloads of waste,” he said.
Mr Caica said the funding – a pre-election promise – followed a successful 12-month trial in which 10 Councils encouraged residents to dispose of food scraps in ‘bio baskets’ that were then put in green organic bins for eventual composting.
He the Regional Implementation Program would also help achieve waste diversion targets by encouraging enhanced recovery of materials in regional areas.
“It is recognised that the delivery of waste and recycling services can be significantly more difficult for communities in country areas,” Mr Caica said.
“I encourage Councils and the waste and recycling industry to consider innovative solutions for dealing with waste in country areas and to apply for funding under this program.”
15 July, 2010
SA trainees are
best trained
New figures released by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research show South Australian apprentices and trainees to be the best in the nation for staying with their training contracts.Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education, Jack Snelling said the NCVER figures showed South Australia had the lowest attrition rate of all States.
“South Australia had the lowest attrition rate in the country in 2008,” Mr Snelling said, “and we’ve consistently been the lowest, or one of the lowest States, since 2001.
“During 2008 – the latest available data – the attrition rate of apprentice and trainee contracts which were cancelled or withdrawn within one year of commencement, was 26.2 per cent, or 5.3 percentage points below the national average of 31.5 per cent.”
Mr Snelling said the attrition rate in SA for apprentices and trainees in trade occupations was 25.8 per cent, 6.4 percentage points below the 32.2 per cent national average.
He also welcomed figures from the NCVER report, Apprentice and Trainees Annual 2009 which revealed showing an estimated 30,600 apprentices and trainees in training in South Australia last year and commencements reaching an estimated 20,200.
Mr Snelling said 11,500 apprenticeship and traineeships were estimated as completed in 2009, an increase of 2.3 per cent on the 2008 figures.
He said the training rate, the percentage of all apprentices and trainees out of the total workforce, was 3.8 per cent in 2009, equal third highest in Australia.
“The training rate for SA apprentices and trainees aged 15 to 19 years in 2009 was 16.5 per cent, higher than the national figure of 16.3 per cent,” Mr Snelling said.
The full report was available from www.ncver.edu.au
15 July, 2010
Food relief announced
Storage space donated to Foodbank SA in Whyalla by the Department of Primary Industries and Resources SA (PIRSA) is to become an emergency food relief centre for 12,000 needy people across the Upper Spencer Gulf and West Coast.
Whyalla Foodbank is to share space within PIRSA’s core library, allowing it to distribute 100 tonnes of staple food and groceries to disadvantaged families across the region.
The arrangement aims to provide a strategically located centre to deliver food relief to marginalised people across the region.
Student bursaries
Four students from South Australia are to receive up to $9,000 each from the Commonwealth Department of Veterans’ Affairs under its Long Tan Bursary Scheme.
The Scheme aims to help children of Vietnam veterans achieve their long-term education goals by easing the financial cost of tertiary study.
Fifty-six students across Australia will be presented with the bursaries, with the South Australian recipients being Tenielle Daly; Esther Doel Henshall; Katina Jonas; and Kristel Klitscher.
Festival unveiled
The Adelaide Festival Centre has announced details of the fourth annual OzAsia Festival, which will be held between 17 September and 2 October and feature the best of Asia’s arts and culture.
The festival is sponsored by the Commonwealth Government and promotes cultural understanding and tolerance through creative collaboration, with 133 artists from Korea, Indonesia, Tibet, Malaysia, India, Vietnam, China, Hong Kong and Australia featuring in events.
A full program of events was available from www.ozasiafestival.com.au
Birds discovered
The largest breeding colony of banded stilts ever recorded in South Australia has been found at Lake Torrens National Park in the South Australian outback.
Staff from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources made the discovery of and estimated 150,000 banded stilts on a small island in the lake.
The medium-sized wading birds are found only in Australia and are listed as vulnerable under the South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972.
Heritage awards close
Nominations for the 2010 South Australian Heritage Heroes awards close tomorrow, 16 July.
The awards recognise volunteers who have made an outstanding contribution to the preservation of the State’s heritage.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources is calling for nominations in three categories - Individual Heritage Volunteer, Heritage Volunteer Group, and the new category of Youth Heritage Volunteer/Group.
More information is available from www.heritage.sa.gov.au
8 July, 2010
Time running out for
long working hours
A new workplace code that recognises the health and safety dangers of excessive working hours has been released by the Minister for Industrial Relations, Paul Holloway.Mr Holloway said the new Approved Code of Practice for Working Hours came into effect last week and reflected a contemporary understanding of working hours, work intensification and work-life balance.
“The Code recognises the significant risk excessive working hours, and the resulting fatigue, may pose to the health, safety and welfare of South Australian workers and their families,” Mr Holloway said.
“The new Code specifically addresses workplace issues that might arise, such as extended hours, shiftwork and on-call work.”
He said the Code explained how employers could comply with the law and provided them with flexibility where an equivalent or better standard of health and safety could be achieved by other means.
Mr Holloway said the Code provided a best practice approach to formulating policy on rostering and hours of work and took the diversity of the State’s workplaces into account.
The Code of Practice – which brings South Australia into line with other States which have similar guidelines on fatigue and working hours - followed a recommendation from the SafeWork SA Advisory Committee.
Mr Holloway said extensive consultation was also undertaken by SafeWork SA as part of its Work Life Balance Strategy
He said the Government was committed to work-life balance, as highlighted in South Australia’s Strategic Plan.
Mr Holloway said a key target of the plan was to improve the quality of life for all South Australians by maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
The Code could be downloaded from www.safework.sa.gov.au
8 July, 2010
Lessons learnt in
skills training
A new program to upgrade the State’s work skills training system has been announced by the Premier, Mike Rann and Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education, Jack Snelling.Mr Rann and Mr Snelling released the Skills for All report for public comment. The report outlines a 10-point program to reform the vocational education and training (VET) system.
Mr Rann said the program would ensure South Australia had the skills needed to grow its existing, new and emerging industries by increasing skill levels, lifting workforce participation and increasing productivity.
“The central focus for the reforms is to transform the VET system so that it’s much more responsive to the needs of students and businesses, as well as being better linked to our schools and universities,” he said.
“We’ve committed to creating another 100,000 jobs over the next six years, so we need to also provide greater opportunities for people wanting to participate in education and training.”
Mr Rann said the State needed a “fairer, more flexible and modern” VET system to achieve its jobs target.
Mr Snelling said under the proposed new system all South Australians would have a Government-supported entitlement to undertake education and training and individuals and employers would be given the chance to choose the skill development opportunities best suited to them.
“We’re aiming to significantly change the way VET is currently operating to a demand driven system where, through the entitlement, individual students and employers are provided with purchasing power to undertake training of their choice,” Mr Snelling said.
“This will create a more efficient and effective system because of increased competition between training providers.”
He said the entitlement would reduce current barriers for young people choosing to move into VET once they had completed secondary school.
Mr Snelling said TAFE SA would be the key public training provider.
“Training, subsidy and fee arrangements will also be simplified, and we’re proposing to introduce a HECS-style income/loan arrangement for VET, subject to arrangements with the Commonwealth,” he said.
The proposals were based on two reports, the Keating Review of Skills and Workforce Development in SA – The Challenge for the Next Decade, released in 2008; and the Training and Skills Commission’s Skills for Jobs Five Year Plan, released last year.
Anyone wishing to make a comment on the Skills for All report should visit www.dfeest.sa.gov.au. Consultation closes 13 August.
8 July, 2010
Stormwater plan a
gift from heaven
A national research program that promises to recycle stormwater to boost the water supplies of communities is to be supported by the State Government.Minister for Water, Paul Caica said the Government would invest over $1 million into the program Cities as Water Supply Catchments, which is aimed at fundamentally changing the way urban communities manage their stormwater.
Mr Caica said the groundbreaking research planned to create a national blueprint to better manage stormwater in urban areas.
“South Australia is already a leader in stormwater harvesting and while we have made good progress in recent times, we know there are challenges ahead to ensure we can maximise the productive use of stormwater,” Mr Caica said.
“Cities as Water Supply Catchments will ensure stormwater was increasingly recognised as an asset and managed in a way that adds value, not cost, to urban communities.”
The Minister said the program would support South Australia’s Water for Good plan and the 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide.
He said Cities as Water Supply Catchments was a $20 million project partly funded by the National Water Commission and being undertaken by researchers from Monash, Queensland and Melbourne universities and global design firm AECOM.
Commissioner for Water Security, Robyn McLeod is to represent South Australia on the project.
Ms McLeod said the research would help maximise the capture and reuse of stormwater.
“The program aims to develop more efficient approaches to urban water demand management and supply and planning, including Water Sensitive Urban Design,’’ she said.
“Water Sensitive Urban Design involves designing the urban landscape in ways that make use of all the potential sources of water rather than relying on mains water.’’
Several potential sites have been nominated as demonstration sites for the project, including the Bowden Urban Village development on the former Clipsal site and the Lochiel Park Green Village development under construction at Campbelltown.
Further information was available from www.wsud.org
8 July, 2010
Ocean monitor is
a current affair
The Southern Australian Integrated Marine Observing System (SAIMOS) has been officially launched at the South Australian Research and Development Institute’s Aquatic Sciences North Arm Marine Facility at Port Adelaide.Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, Michael O’Brien launched the $9.4 million system which is expected to provide insights into the role of the Southern Ocean in climate, ecosystems and seafood production.
Established by Aquatic Sciences and Flinders University over the past three years, the system uses cutting-edge technologies to reveal critical information about managing the State’s fisheries and how to respond to climate change.
Mr O’Brien said the system would enable research to guide fisheries management, the selection of aquaculture sites, inform the establishment of marine parks, sewage outfalls and potential biosecurity risks.
He said SAIMOS used equipment such as sub-ocean gliders, shelf moorings, autonomous underwater vehicles and even sea lions to collect and interpret data.
Leader of the SAIMOS program, Associate Professor John Middleton said the advanced data being collected by SAIMOS had already led to several new projects.
“SAIMOS data streams have revealed the intensity of two extreme upwelling events that occurred in 2008 and 2010,” Professor Middleton said.
“We are now using this data to investigate whether there is any link between these and the subsequent decline in rock lobster production.”
He said another project was providing advice on the placement and sustainable growth of new aquaculture zones in Spencer Gulf.
SAIMOS was funded by the national Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) through the Commonwealth’s National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy, the South Australian Government, Marine Innovation SA, SARDI, Flinders University and the Victorian Government.
All SAIMOS data will soon be available via the IMOS Ocean Portal at imos.aodn.org.au
8 July, 2010
Cemetery memorial
for grave injustice
A memorial to the 50,000 people buried in unmarked graves at West Terrace Cemetery has been officially unveiled.Minister for Urban Development and Planning, Paul Holloway said the commemorative Caroline Clark Memorial Garden was a sign of respect to those buried in unmarked graves from settlement to the mid 20th century.
“From the colony’s earliest days, many families facing hardship relied on the State to bury their loved ones,” Mr Holloway said.
“This often translated into burial in common graves and without ceremony.”
The Minister said this approach reflected society’s attitude at the time and contrasted sharply with Government and community values in the 21st century.
“This memorial is an important step in acknowledging our history,” he said.
Mr Holloway said in today’s society families could access Government-assisted funerals to give their loved ones the same dignity and respect as any other member of the community.
He said the memorial gave those related to people buried in unmarked graves the opportunity to place a lasting tribute to their ancestors.
The memorial was named after the 19th century philanthropist and reformer Caroline Emily Clark, who worked to improve the treatment and lives of destitute children.
“Caroline’s main achievement was a ‘boarding out system’, which placed destitute children in homes with people who were subsidised to care, clothe and educate them,” Mr Holloway said.
“This system provided the children with better conditions and heavily reduced the burden on the Destitute Board’s limited resources.”
Chair of the Adelaide Cemeteries Authority, Catherine Shultz said the Authority was pleased to provide families with an area they could visit, reflect and remember those who had gone before them.
“The burial of people in unmarked graves is just as much a part of this cemetery’s long history as those more prominent South Australians who were often given lavish farewells,” Ms Shultz said.
8 July, 2010
Photos put visitors
in the picture
Cleland Wildlife Park is searching for past visitors with enduring memories to share their experiences and receive 2-for-1 entry.Visitors are being encouraged to submit a photo of themselves or one of their favourite memories from a previous visit to the Park.
Acting Manager of Cleland, Nalini Klopp said visitors would receive 2-for-1 entry if the presented a photo of themselves on a past visit to the Park when entering or posted a photo on the Park’s Facebook page.
Ms Klopp said participants would also go in the running to win a Family Wildcard Pass when they uploaded their Park photo onto Cleland’s Facebook page.
She encouraged people to take up the 2-for-1 offer, saying winter was one of the best times to visit the Park.
“When I talk to people within the park, or even when I’m outside work, many of them have great memories of visiting when they were a child,” Ms Klopp said.
“South Australians have such a unique bond with Cleland, so we thought this would be a great opportunity to thank them for their ongoing support.”
She said without the summer crowds, visitors could get even closer to some of the Park’s most unique native wildlife.
“Being prepared to rug up and bring an umbrella can really pay off at this time of the year,” Ms Klopp said.
“And as a bonus, we’ve just welcomed some new additions with twin baby bilbies and a baby wombat.”
She said the offer was valid until 31 August 2010 and further information was available from www.clelandwildlifepark.sa.gov.au
8 July, 2010
Measurement office
to measure up
The National Measurement Institute has taken on the responsibility for trade measurement across Australia, creating a national team of inspectors to monitor the accuracy of weights and scales used in business.It picks up where local consumer and fair trading authorities left off.
Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Innovation and Industry, Richard Marles said the new system would cut red tape for business and give consumers confidence that they were getting what they paid for.
“Consumers need to know the meat, firewood or petrol they buy has been weighed and measured correctly,” Mr Marles said.
“That means having properly calibrated scales and fuel flow meters and accurately labelled packaged goods.”
He said the National Measurement Institute’s (NMI’s) inspectors would monitor compliance right across industry, from manufacturing plants to retail outlets.
He said traders found to be in breach of the law could receive penalties ranging from warnings and infringement notices to prosecutions carrying fines of up to $110,000.
Chief Executive of the NMI, Dr Laurie Besley said although penalties were not new, there was now national consistency after 109 years of separate State and Territory regimes.
“Importantly, a national system will allow NMI to track non-compliance among industries, resulting in better access to statistics and information,” Dr Besley said.
Mr Marles said trade transactions relying on some form of measurement were estimated to be worth over $400 billion a year to the national economy.
He said information about the new trade measurement arrangements was available from www.measurement.gov.au
8 July, 2010
Gas warning puts
pressure on users
The Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure has issued a warning to the community on the dangers of gas leaks.Technical Regulator at DTEI, Rob Faunt said anyone who suspected a gas leak inside or around their home should report it on 1800 808 526.
“It’s paramount people are aware of the importance in reporting all gas leaks - you should never be complacent with reporting gas leaks, even if it’s outside of your own property,” Mr Faunt said.
“Gas leaks are often more noticeable in the cold and wet weather and can be potentially more dangerous, so it’s important you don’t ignore it.”
He said even if a gas leak appeared to be some distance away, wet weather conditions could cause the gas to spread and cause a fire or explosion.
Mr Faunt said reticulated natural gas was colourless but had an odour that was added to help people identify leaks.
He said gas was lighter than air and for an underground leak would generally rise through the soil near a leak and escape into the atmosphere.
“If you suspect a leak don’t use anything that could act as a source of ignition and do not try to locate a leak using an ignition source – this is extremely dangerous,” Mr Faunt said.
“Open and ventilate your home and if possible and if it is safe to do so, turn off your gas and electricity at the meter.
“Then from a safe location call 1800 808 526 for assistance, this number is a free call 24 hours a day and is located on your gas bill.”
Further information on gas leaks was available from www.energy.sa.gov.au
8 July, 2010
Learning Greek
as easy as pi
The Federal Government has been urged to include the Greek language in the new Australian curriculum for schools.Premier, Mike Rann said he had written to the Federal Minister for Education, Simon Crean to set out South Australia’s position on Greek language teaching in schools.
“Australia is all the richer because of the influence of Greek language and culture,” Mr Rann said.
“The State Government strongly believes that Greek should be included in the languages learning section of the Australian Curriculum.”
Mr Rann said South Australia had one of the nation’s largest Greek communities, adding it had played a major role in shaping the State’s rich multicultural heritage.
“Many educational opportunities for children have been shaped by our Greek communities and teachers at schools such as the Sturt Street Community School and our ethnic community schools,” he said.
Mr Rann said South Australia had a Memorandum of Understanding which involved the Greek Government funding the placement of Greek language teaching assistants in South Australian public schools.
Minister for Education, Jay Weatherill said members of the Greek community were concerned that Greek might not be included in the national curriculum being developed by the Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority.
Mr Weatherill said no decisions about which languages would be included in the national curriculum had yet been made.
“However, we are advocating on behalf of Greek communities in South Australia to ensure their voices are heard at a national level,” he said.
“I have encouraged community members to continue speaking up for the inclusion of the Greek language.”
Mr Weatherill said South Australian schools made decisions about second language programs in consultation with school communities.
He said in 2009 Greek was taught at 36 schools, with more than 4,500 students enrolled in the subject.
8 July, 2010
Councils counselled
on grants program
Local Councils have been urged to get community services and infrastructure works underway by taking advantage of early payments under the Commonwealth’s Financial Assistance Grants.South Australian Minister for State/Local Government Relations, Gail Gago said $34.6 million in grants had already been distributed to SA Councils over the past week after the Commonwealth approved the State’s recommendations on how the funding should be distributed.
Ms Gago said the first grants to Councils were being distributed by the Federal Government ahead of schedule to ensure they could put them to use at the start of the new financial year.
“The Financial Assistance Grants are part of an important partnership to build and modernise infrastructure in Australia’s local and regional communities by supporting the local delivery of roads, water and sewerage, infrastructure and services,” Ms Gago said.
“I urge Local Councils to take full advantage of the early grants to boost recovery in their communities while, at the same time, providing them with new facilities and services.”
She said the funds released this week were the first from an estimated
$138 million worth of grants expected to be handed out to Councils this financial year.
Ms Gago said the final figure would be determined in August following the release of final population and Consumer Price Index data and recommendations from the SA Local Government Grants Commission.
She said when finalised, the remaining 2010-11 funding would be distributed to Councils in four equal instalments.
8 July, 2010
Health draws line on
network boundaries
A set of proposed boundaries for the new primary health care organisations have been released for public comment.To be known as Medicare Locals, the entities will serve their local communities, health professionals and service providers, and are a key component of the new National Health and Hospitals Network.
Federal Minister for Health, Nicola Roxon said the Australian General Practice Network (AGPN) had provided an independent report into potential geographic boundaries for primary health care organisations.
Ms Roxon said Medicare Locals would be independent legal entities with strong local links to enable them to respond more effectively to local need.
“Medicare Locals will continue the excellent work of the AGPN Divisions and support health professionals to provide more co-ordinated care, improve access to services, and drive integration across the primary health care, hospital and aged care sectors,” Ms Roxon said.
“They will be responsible for improving and co-ordinating GP and primary care services in local communities.”
The Minister said the report provided a comprehensive geographic analysis, based on Local Government Areas, where GP, primary care services and local hospitals currently existed.
“While the Australian Government acknowledges the comprehensive work of the independently commissioned report, the report does not represent a Government view of the number or boundaries of Medicare Locals,” she said.
Ms Roxon said consultation on Local Hospital Network (LHN) boundaries would also be undertaken by States and Territories.
She said it was likely that the final number of LHNs would be significantly greater than Medicare Locals.
Ms Roxon said the first group of 15 Medicare Locals would commence operation mid-next year tasked with their first assignment of improving access to after-hours GP services.
She said the first group would be drawn from the Divisions of General
Practice network.
Submissions on potential boundaries for LHNs and Medicare Locals could be made online at www.yourhealth.gov.au up until 30 September.
8 July, 2010
Planning plan has
plans for North
A new planning strategy that recognises the pace of growth in the mining and tourism industries across the far North has been adopted to guide future development in the region.Minister for Urban Development and Planning, Paul Holloway said the Far North Region Plan addressed the changes underway in the Far North due to the growing tourism and mining industries.
Mr Holloway said the plan addressed the industries’ expected impact on population growth.
“Spending on mineral and geothermal exploration has been consistently rising in South Australia, and most of that work is being carried out in the State’s Far North,” Mr Holloway said.
“The Far North is experiencing a huge investment in mining infrastructure with the proposed Olympic Dam expansion likely to transform that project into one of the largest mines in the world.”
He said anticipating the impact of the fast-growing mineral industry on the Far North region played a key role in developing the Plan.
Mr Holloway said the Plan identified where housing, population and industry growth would be best located – and not located – across the region.
He said it also identified the roles and functions various towns and regions could play and tackled issues such as the interface between industry, residential areas and environmental assets, such as the Flinders Ranges.
Mr Holloway said the Far North Region Plan was developed through a collaborative process involving four Local Councils as well as the Outback Areas Community Development Trust, the Northern Regional Development Board and the Northern and Arid Lands Natural Resource Management Boards.
He said it features four broad maps – ‘Environment and Culture’, ‘Economic Development’, ‘Population and Settlements’ and ‘Integrated Vision for the Far North Region’.
Mr Holloway said 19 principles and their corresponding objectives and plans had also been identified for the region.
A copy of the plan was available from www.planning.sa.gov.au
8 July, 2010
Mobile office
on the move
Centrelink has announced its Australian Government Mobile Office is to visit Paringa, Spalding and Wilmington next week, offering residents direct access to a wide range of Government payments and services.The Mobile Office is designed to give rural communities improved access to Government services.
Since late last year the Mobile Office has visited around 200 towns, travelled more than 32,000km and seen over 11,000 Centrelink clients.
Mobile Office Team Leader, Andrew Gregory said the Mobile Office was particularly useful for people who did not have easy access to a Centrelink or Medicare Australia office.
“Staff on board the Mobile Office live and work in rural communities and can provide information, assistance and support to seniors, students, families, farmers and farm-dependent small businesses,” Mr Gregory said.
He said Centrelink Rural Services Officers and Rural Social Workers staff would be on board to help clients with a wide range of services such as new claims for Centrelink payments, updating personal information and confirming customer documents and supporting information.
Mr Gregory said other services offered by the Mobile Office included information on how financial matters could impact on Centrelink payments, drought assistance claims, non-cash Medicare Australia transactions, Medicare Australia enrolments and social work support and referrals.
He said the Mobile Office was custom-built to provide flexibility and space to clients and featured a small waiting area, two separate interview rooms, three service desks, wireless technology and self-service facilities.
“The floor inside the Mobile Office is completely flat, even when the side is extended, and a special ramp at the rear of the vehicle means it is wheelchair accessible,” Mr Gregory said.
“The versatility of the Mobile Office means we can adapt the services we offer to suit the specific needs of the community and its people.”
He urged people to visit the Mobile Office in Paringa on 13 July, Spalding on 14 July and in Wilmington on 15 July.
Further information on locations and dates was available at www.centrelink.gov.au
8 July, 2010
Mental Health Act
making headway
A new law that improves the treatment, care and rehabilitation of people with mental illness has come into effect following significant reforms to mental health services for South Australians.Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse, John Hill said the Mental Health Act 2009 underpinned reforms to South Australia’s mental health services.
Mr Hill said the new Act helped mental health experts and psychiatrists across the State to intervene quickly to help patients before their condition deteriorated.
“This Government is absolutely committed to delivering better services to South Australians suffering mental illness, investing over $300 million to help build a modern, humane system which treats, supports and protects patients and their carers,” Mr Hill said.
He said the Act would enable better communication between mental health experts, patients, carers and families.
Mr Hill said mental health experts could now share information to help with the care and treatment of a person with a mental illness with their carer if it was in the best interest of the patient.
“The sharing of appropriate clinical information gives carers a better understanding of the treatment their patient is receiving and the issues they may be facing,” he said.
The Minister said the new laws also allowed for the use of audio-visual conferencing facilities to enable mental health experts and psychiatrists to assess patients in rural and remote areas.
Mr Hill said patients would have treatment and care plans, while their physical and mental health would be monitored and regularly reviewed.
He said the Act created the new position of Chief Psychiatrist, which had been filled by Dr Margaret Honeyman.
Dr Honeyman said a significant part of her new role would be to safeguard the rights of people accessing mental health services in South Australia and to monitor the use of the Act.
“This includes providing the Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse with a comprehensive annual report regarding the status of mental health services throughout the State,” Dr Honeyman said.
She said the Act also provided for a Community Visitor Scheme from June next year to allow community visitors to inspect treatment centres and act as advocates for patients.
She said under the new Act, children would be cared for and treated separately from other patients to take their different needs into account
“For example, the new Act provides safeguards for children and young people in the form of shorter orders, with more frequent reviews.”
The Mental Health Act 2009 could be downloaded from www.health.sa.gov.au
8 July, 2010
Paper has data on
research workers
A new strategy to develop the nation’s workforce of researchers has been proposed in a consultation paper released by the Federal Minister for Innovation, Senator Kim Carr.Senator Carr said the paper aimed to focus discussion on the Strategy and to generate ideas to rejuvenate and expand Australia’s research workforce.
“It is about planning for the future and making sure that we have the highly skilled researchers we need to stay competitive, to maintain living standards, and to fulfil the aspirations of working Australians,” Senator Carr said.
“Everyone with an interest in the future of Australian research should take part in this process.”
He said the consultation paper highlighted challenges and opportunities that should be considered when planning to expand Australia’s research workforce.
Senator Carr said it had been developed with advice from a reference group established to support the Strategy development process, which included members from universities, research institutes and peak industry and representative bodies.
He said the Government was investing in innovation, science and research because the industries of the future would be more knowledge-intensive and technology-driven.
Senator Carr said public information sessions on the Strategy would be held in Adelaide on 20 July, Sydney on 12 July, Brisbane on 13 July, Melbourne on 14 July and Perth on 19 July.
Submissions close on 6 August, with the final Strategy expected to be considered toward the end of the year.
The consultation paper and locations of the information session were available at www.innovation.gov.au
8 July, 2010
United input for
UN report
A national consultation process on the success or otherwise of Australia’s services for people with disability has been launched by the Federal Attorney-General, Robert McClelland and Commonwealth Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities, Bill Shorten.The consultation will inform an Australian report under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Mr McClelland said the convention requires Australia to submit a comprehensive report every four years on measures taken to promote the rights and freedoms of people with a disability.
He said the draft report, Australia's Initial Report under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, was Australia’s first since it became a party to the Convention in 2008.
He said the draft included information about the development of the National Disability Strategy and explained policies, programs and laws relating to the rights of people with disabilities.
“This report demonstrates the Australian Government’s commitment to removing barriers and accommodating the needs of persons with disabilities to enable them to enjoy their rights on an equal basis with all Australians,” Mr McClelland said.
He said significant steps had been taken towards enhancing and promoting the rights of people with a disability, including acceding to the Optional Protocol to the Convention, developing disability standards for access to premises and reforming the Disability Discrimination Act.
Mr Shorten urged members of the public, non-Government organisations and people with a disability to comment on the draft report.
“People with a disability are still too often treated as second-class citizens in this country,” Mr Shorten said.
He said the National Disability Strategy would be released this year and would outline the Government’s approach to further protecting the rights of people with disabilities and encouraging their inclusion in society.
“The NDS will play an important role in protecting and promoting the human rights of people with a disability,” Mr Shorten said.
Submissions close on 6 August 2010 and copies of the draft and supporting documents were available from www.ag.gov.au
8 July, 2010
SARDI head moves on
Affiliate Professor Rob Lewis is leaving his position as Executive Director of the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) after serving in the South Australian Public Service for 38 years.
At his farewell celebrations many staff paid tribute to Professor Lewis, who joined the Department of Fisheries as a research Officer in 1973 and was appointed Director of Fisheries in 1987.
Professor Lewis will continue to serve on public and private sector boards including as Chair of the Primary Industries Standing Committee Fisheries and Aquaculture Research National Priorities Forum.
Valuations listed
The Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure’s Land Services Group has announced the Annual Property Valuation Listing for 2010-11 was now available.
The new listing has the statutory valuations for all properties applicable from 1 July 2010 until 30 June 2011.
The listing includes valuation numbers, property locations, title references, Land Use Codes, site area, zoning, and site and capital values (for current and previous year.)
The listing was available at www.landservices.sa.gov.au
Research grants open
Applications are being sought for grants to help fund research into workplace health and safety issues in South Australia.
Minister for Industrial Relations, Paul Holloway said the grants supported university-based or independent researchers who undertook applied research aimed at preventing work-related injury and illness.
Mr Holloway said a total of $600,000 was available from the current round of grants, with a suggested minimum of $50,000 to be allocated to each of the successful applicants.
Applications close on 27 August and further information was available from www.safework.sa.gov.au
Buses added to routes
Twenty new buses are to come into service across Adelaide’s busiest bus routes over the coming weeks.
Minister for Transport, Patrick Conlon said the buses would bolster capacity on existing timetables and provide around 160 extra services.
Mr Conlon said the new buses will be deployed across all AdelaideMetro contract areas including O-Bahn, Main North Road, Sir Donald Bradman Drive and Glen Osmond Road.
More information on the new buses was available from www.adelaidemetro.com.au
Arts funding up
Over $1 million in funding has been announced to enhance arts, cultural venues and infrastructure across the State.
Minister Assisting the Premier in the Arts, John Hill said the extra funding would improve access to venues and help purchase equipment.
Mr Hill said projects to receive funding included the introduction of ‘real time’ audio captioning at the Dunstan Playhouse and the improvement of facilities at Country Arts SA.
Details of other projects were available from www.ministers.sa.gov.au
Dental truck for NT
A new mobile dental truck, to be based in Alice Springs, will provide services to 8,000 people in surrounding communities including Utopia, Lake Nash, Papunya and Epenarra.
Federal Minister for Indigenous Health, Rural and Regional Health and Regional Services Delivery, Warren Snowdon said for many communities it would mean the difference between people seeing a dentist and not being able to get treatment at all.
Mr Snowdon said the program pilot was part of an $11 million program, Closing the Gap - Indigenous dental services in rural and regional areas program.
1 July, 2010
Infrastructure plans
are making inroads
A program of infrastructure improvements and upgrades around the Greater Edinburgh Parks precinct has been unveiled in readiness for an influx of interstate Defence personnel and their families.Minister for Defence Industries, Kevin Foley said significant upgrades to roads and transport corridors across Elizabeth and Salisbury would commence in August.
Mr Foley said the works would be undertaken in the lead up to the relocation of the 1,200 member 7th Royal Australian Regiment Battle Group, which will start to arrive at the end of the year.
“This relocation has been five years in the making and as we enter the final stages of preparation we are now delivering a major boost to roads and transport facilities across the northern suburbs,” Mr Foley said.
“Locals will benefit from the upgrades to roads, stations, pedestrian paths and cycling lanes in the area as well as from the creation of tens of thousands of jobs within the precinct over the next couple of decades.”
He said the $24 million project included an upgrade of Elizabeth South station, the duplication of Commercial Road from Purling Avenue to Salisbury Highway, and improvements to the traffic signals at the Commercial Road/Salisbury Highway intersection.
The Minister said several existing roundabouts would be converted to dual lanes while the T-junction at Womma Road and Heytesbury Road would become a roundabout.
Other infrastructure works would include improvements to pedestrian and cycling facilities and an upgrade for the Nurlutta Railway station/crossing.
Mr Foley said the upgrades were being funded by the State Government in partnership with the Cities of Playford and Salisbury.
The Commonwealth announced the Battle Group would be relocated in 2005 and the construction of new facilities within RAAF Base Edinburgh has been underway since 2008.
1 July, 2010
Drivers driven
to new website
A new website has been developed for P-platers, learner drivers, their parents and driving instructors to introduce them to changes in the State’s road rules which will come into effect from 4 September.Minister for Road Safety, Jack Snelling said the website, mylicence.sa.gov.au, included information about the changes, different licence stages and road safety risks to young drivers.
Mr Snelling said the rules for drivers with a Learner’s permit or a Provisional licence would be tightened under the State’s Graduated Licensing Scheme.
“We’re continually reminded that drivers under the age of 25 are more likely to be involved in a crash, so the new licence restrictions will apply specifically to drivers in this age group,” Mr Snelling said.
He said L-platers under 25 would need to have at least 12 months supervised driving time and P-platers under 25 would be banned from driving high-powered vehicles.
“More supervised driving experience will also be required for drivers of any age progressing from a L-plate to a P-plate, increasing from 50 hours (including 10 at night) to 75 hours (including 15 at night),” Mr Snelling said.
“Drivers who break the rules and are disqualified from driving have to go back a licence stage.”
The Minister said curfew conditions would also be tightened for provisional drivers returning from a serious disqualification offence to prohibit passengers other than the required qualified supervising driver between midnight and 5am.
“The current disqualification penalty for not displaying L or P plates will be replaced with a reduced penalty of two demerit points and a fine,” he said.
“L-platers will also be able to practise driving up to speeds of 100km/h under the guidance of their qualified supervising driver.”
Mr Snelling said the new website also included online practice tests for the Theory and Hazard Perception tests.
“I urge all young drivers to visit the website, which is the first stage of an extensive communications campaign to encourage young drivers to familiarise themselves with the new rules well before September,” he said.
1 July, 2010
Police graduates
to fill the Bill
The SA Police Force has welcomed 100 new graduates, taking the Force strength to over 4,400 and fulfilling a Government election promise from 2006.Minister for Police, Michael Wright said the milestone was a “groundbreaking and outstanding” achievement by the Government.
Mr Wright said having reached its commitment to have an extra 400 officers on the beat and achieving its target of 4,400, the Government would now focus on its recent election pledge to recruit a further 300.
He said the 100 graduates had completed 10 weeks of training.
“The State Government is extremely proud of our police officers, they are entrusted with the important task of helping to make SA a better and safer place to live and on behalf of the community,” Mr Wright said.
“Per capita, South Australia continues to lead the nation, having highest rate of sworn police officers of any Australian State.”
He said 81 of the new police officers were from the United Kingdom, one was from the Queensland Police Force and 18 were from South Australia.
Officer in Charge of Eastern Adelaide Local Service Area, Superintendent John Thomas said 24 graduates, all originally from the UK, had been allocated to his area.
Superintendent Thomas said their arrival coincided with the introduction of a seven week policing roster in the CBD.
“The new officers start at a time when changes are being introduced to improve our policing capability,” Superintendent Thomas said.
“The 17 men and seven women bring us 232 years of experience from the UK.
“Their presence will have an immediate impact within the city.”
Superintendent Thomas said the new seven week roster – to start on 1 July – aimed to increase police presence and capability and replaced the standard five week roster.
1 July, 2010
Green light for
gender blueprint
A blueprint for further reform in closing the gender gap has been released by the national Sex Discrimination Commissioner, Elizabeth Broderick.Entitled Gender Equality Blueprint 2010, Ms Broderick said it was the next stage of reform stemming from her 2007 national listening tour.
Ms Broderick said in the wake of securing the paid parental leave scheme for Australia, there was a risk that gender equality would be considered “finished business”, making further reform unnecessary.
“Nine major national reviews have considered how best to improved gender equality in Australia and, if they tell us anything, it is that there remains a major gap in equality between women and men,” she said.
Ms Broderick said the Blueprint contained 15 recommendations in five priority areas identified during her national listening tour.
She said the recommendations focused on “practical, achievable changes” that could be made immediately and, in some areas, were already under way.
The Commissioner said three main areas of focus were childcare and out of school care, promoting women in leadership and preventing violence against women.
“We need a national childcare body, adequately empowered and resourced, that will oversee ongoing development towards a system of high quality, accessible, affordable universal childcare,” Ms Broderick said.
She said a major national prevention strategy was needed to help stop violence against women and to drive down the incidence of sexual harassment in workplaces.
“We need an independent body to monitor the implementation of the national plan to reduce violence against women,” Ms Broderick said.
The Commissioner urged the adoption of the Blueprint and encouraged the business sector to put innovative gender equality strategies in place.
The Gender Equality Blueprint 2010 was available from www.humanrights.gov.au
1 July, 2010
Waste watchers count
losses in tonnes
More than 2.5 million tonnes of waste material was diverted away from landfill in the 12 months to July last year, the highest level in the past six years.Minister for Environment and Conservation, Paul Caica said this was the environmental equivalent of taking more than 205,300 cars off the road.
Mr Caica said the Recycling Activity in South Australia report for 2008-09 found 70.4 per cent of all waste generated was dealt with other than by dumping it as landfill.
He said the report showed recycling activity in the State was having a significant impact on greenhouse gas emissions by preventing the equivalent of about 890,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere.
“It’s pleasing to see that South Australia continues to maintain one of the highest diversion rates in Australia,” Mr Caica said.
“These results show that the State Government’s waste strategy, financial incentives to encourage recycling and resource recovery and other supportive measures have helped to increase recycling activity.”
The Minister said the total waste generated in South Australia had decreased over the past year and the amount sent to landfill continued to drop.
“It is at its lowest level in the past six years despite South Australia’s population increasing to 1.622 million in 2008-09,” he said.
Mr Caica said while recycling activity in the State was slightly lower in 2008-09 compared to the previous year, this was a result of the global financial crisis, which reduced market demand for recyclables.
He said it was pleasing that the rate of waste going to landfill continued to fall, with research showing each South Australian recycled an average of 1,573kg of waste per year – a rate exceed only by the residents of the ACT.
According to the report, 13,778 tonnes of plastics were recovered for recycling, with plastic soft drink bottles being the largest contributor at almost 38 per cent.
“Recycling is improving South Australia’s sustainability by saving energy, conserving resources and reducing emissions of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere,’’ Mr Caica said.
Recycling Activity in South Australia could be accessed at www.zerowaste.sa.gov.au
1 July, 2010
Hospital charts show
events for the worse
The Minister for Health has tabled a report of serious events recorded in South Australia’s public hospitals between July 2008 and June 2009.The Minister, John Hill said hospital staff often worked under “intense pressure” as they attended to the almost 3 million people who sought treatment from a public hospital in South Australia each year.
“Unfortunately there are occasions where patients are adversely affected while they are being treated,” Mr Hill said.
“It’s really important that staff continue to report every incident so they and their colleagues can refine procedures where necessary and learn from each and every unforseen event.”
Mr Hill said since 2004, public hospitals had reported nationally on ‘sentinel events’ which consist of eight agreed upon categories of events used as indicators of issues that need to be reported.
He said his report showed there were 15 sentinel events in 2008-09 in South Australia, three more than the previous year.
These events included two maternal deaths, seven cases where instruments were mistakenly left in patients’ bodies and six cases in which in-patients committed suicide.
In 2008-09 there were no cases of other sentinel events, which are categorised as procedures involving the wrong body parts or patients; medication errors leading to death; intravascular gas embolism resulting in death or neurological damage; haemolytic blood transfusion reaction; and discharging an infant to the wrong family.
Mr Hill said the National Sentinel Events Report’s criteria had been changed to clarify events involving the wrong body part or wrong patient.
He said while in previous years events like the wrong x-ray or scan were included, the new national definition included only events which resulted in a patient’s death or permanent loss of function.
Chief Public Health Officer of SA Health, Dr Stephen Christley said SA Health had a “robust” reporting and management system, and an excellent safety culture.
“Extensive work has been, and continues to be, conducted across SA Health to address the State and national patient safety priorities,” Dr Christley said.
“This includes improving patient identification procedures, programs to improve team work and communication and new initiatives to help prevent health care associated infections.”
1 July, 2010
On-the-job trainers
getting more work
Participation in Vocational Education and Training (VET) in South Australia is on the rise according to new figures released by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research.Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education, Jack Snelling said the latest statistics showed subject enrolments and delivery hours increased significantly in 2009.
“The number of VET hours delivered in 2009 increased by 11.4 per cent from 2008, a rise of 2.9 million hours to a total of 28 million hours,” Mr Snelling said.
“This is well above the national increase in delivery hours of 7.3 per cent.”
The Minister said the number of VET enrolments during 2009 increased by 45,000 to 870,200, an increase of 5.5 per cent.
Mr Snelling said the data showed the number of VET course completions in 2008 increased by 18.4 per cent – or 4,300 – on the 2007 figure to 28,100, well above the national average increase of 10.1 per cent.
“The total number of students undertaking VET across the State in 2009 was 121,900,” he said.
“This is a slight fall of 2.7 per cent on the 2008 figure because Workers’ Education Association of South Australia (WEA) data is not included in the 2009 NCVER report, as was recorded in previous data.”
Mr Snelling said if WEA data was included, it was estimated the student figure would have been approximately 127,800, an increase of 2 per cent.
He said that in 2009 South Australia had 302 registered training organisations delivering training across 800 locations including 47 TAFE SA campuses, 168 Adult Community Education sites and 585 private colleges.
1 July, 2010
Overseas students
in foreign capital
The Australian Bureau of Statistics has reported that South Australia’s income from international students in 2009 was $990 million, or almost 10 per cent (9.6%) of the State’s total export income.The figures represent an average annual growth rate of 18.9 per cent, with the income from international students more than three times higher than in 2002.
Commenting on its findings, the ABS said because international students were not permanent residents of the State, their expenditure – such as tuition fees, course materials, food, accommodation and transport – was treated as income from international trade in services, or export income.
The ABS figures showed that in 2002, 2.6 per cent of the nation’s international student enrolments in vocational education training (VET) were in South Australia, with this proportion increasing to 3.8 per cent last year.
It said between 2007 and 2009, international student enrolments in the South Australian VET sector trebled from 2,961 to 8,919 - a higher average annual rate than any other sector of education.
The ABS research revealed that while the number of enrolments in Government and non-Government VET providers was similar in 2005, since 2007 enrolment numbers had diverged markedly.
“In 2005 the number of enrolments in Government VET courses (primarily TAFE) was 831 whilst non-Government VET courses attracted 971 enrolments,” the ABS said.
“By 2009 the numbers had increased to 1,338 and 7,581 respectively.”
It said in 2009, the most popular fields of study in the State for international student enrolments in non-Government provided VET were Society and Culture (23.7 per cent), Management and Commerce (21.1 per cent), Food Hospitality and Personal Services (16.1 per cent), and Engineering and Related Technologies (15.6 per cent).
Further information could be obtained from www.abs.gov.au
1 July, 2010
OCBA to close gate
on backyard dealers
The Office of Consumer and Business Affairs has announced it is cracking down on the State’s ‘backyard’ car dealers. Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gail Gago, said an investigation by OCBA had triggered a number of reports about dodgy car dealings in the State.
Ms Gago said over the past four months OCBA had reported a number of individuals for interfering with the odometers of second hand vehicles, issued warnings to people about carrying on business as a second-hand dealer while unlicensed and issued warnings to licensed dealers for failing to advertise correctly.
“OCBA is currently investigating further reports of unlicensed second-hand vehicle dealing and it is expected that more alleged offenders will be reported,” Ms Gago said.
“This work is a great step in helping to protect consumers and also helping to create a fairer and more ethical industry for legitimate licensed second-hand vehicle dealers who do the right thing.”
The Minister said consumers often believed they were dealing with a genuine private seller who had owned the car for years and that it had been reliable, when in truth the seller had only recently acquired the car him or herself.
“Cases of odometer interference detected by OCBA are usually associated with ‘backyard’ car dealing,” Ms Gago said.
“Buying a used car through a licensed dealer affords greater protection for the consumer under the Second-hand Vehicle Dealers Act 1995.”
She said it wasn’t just buyers being ripped off.
“Instances of backyard car dealing often go unreported and can be very hard to detect,” she said.
“Backyarders gain a commercial advantage over licensed dealers as they do not offer warranty on any of the vehicles they sell.”
Ms Gago said the Second-hand Vehicle Dealers Act 1995 required any person who carried on business as a second-hand vehicle dealer, be licensed.
She said the maximum penalty for unlicensed dealing in South Australia was $20,000 and encouraged consumers to contact OCBA on (08) 8204 9777 if they were aware of unlicensed vehicle dealings.
Further information was also available from www.ocba.sa.gov.au
1 July, 2010
NRM board plants
weed spotter idea
The South East Natural Resources Management Board has launched a new initiative to blow the whistle on pest plants.The Board has unveiled its new Weed Spotters Program which includes pest presentations and is urging members of the public to become involved.
The Weed Spotters Program is aimed at preventing weeds in the South East region from further impacting on the environment.
Participants in the program will keep an eye out for new weeds to make sure they are destroyed before they become established.
Weed Spotters will watch for, report, collect, and deliver specimens of potential, new and emerging weeds to their regional co-ordinator in an attempt to stop the further detrimental effects of weeds in the region.
The South East NRM Board urged anyone with an interest in natural resources or who worked in agriculture or the natural environment to get involved in the Weed Spotters program.
“A Weed Spotter is like our front line defence against invading plant species,” the Board said.
“Extensive plant knowledge is not required to be a good Weed Spotter - just a keen eye and the motivation to protect our natural resources.”
The Board will provide all training, resources and support, and is offering free pest presentations to community groups.
The Board said weeds cost South East landholders an estimated $19 million each year in control and lost production costs.
It said the South East Weed Risk Assessment highlighted 37 ‘Alert’ species that had the potential to establish and spread in the South East.
“Prevention and early intervention are the most effective options for dealing with new and emerging weeds,” the Board said.
Further information on joining the Weed Spotters Program or how to arrange a pest presentation was available by phoning (08) 8463 7427.
1 July, 2010
Women’s business
not so secret
A new resource to assist Indigenous women succeed in business has been welcomed by the Minister for the Status of Women, Gail Gago.Ms Gago said the Business Toolkit for Indigenous Women was designed to provide Aboriginal women across the country with practical guidance and advice on how to succeed in business.
She said the toolkit featured the stories of six successful Aboriginal businesswomen who shared their tips and experiences on how to get started, balance family and community obligations, manage the demands of business life and when and where to get help.
Ms Gago said the toolkit was the result of recommendations made by the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women’s Gathering (NATSIWG), which met in Canberra last month.
She said South Australia was represented by Violet Buckskin, Pat Waria-Read and Mabel Lochowiak who were all elected at the State Aboriginal Women’s Gathering for their contribution to providing community-focused advice and support to Indigenous women.
“The sharing of ideas helps shape the NATSIWG agenda and provide a voice for issues affecting South Australian Indigenous women such as employment, housing, safety and well-being, and human rights, at a national level,” Ms Gago said.
The Minister said many Indigenous women lived in rural and remote areas with less access to essential business services such as postal, phone and banking services.
“The toolkit addresses these issues with a number of useful fact sheets, covering business planning to exporting goods, and provides access to a range of useful local resources,” Ms Gago said.
“Being your own boss can offer greater flexibility for women to combine family, culture and business.”
She said another exciting development in Indigenous women’s leadership was the recent appointment of international human rights lawyer, Megan Davis from Queensland, to the United Nations’ Indigenous Advisory Group.
Ms Davis is to join the Advisory Group next year and will be the first Australian Indigenous woman to be elected to a United Nations body.
The toolkit could be downloaded from www.fahcsia.gov.au
1 July, 2010
Iraqis unveiled as
farm trainees
A group of 20 specialists from Iraq’s Ministry of Agriculture have completed an advanced course in agricultural training conducted by Rural Solutions SA.Minister for Agriculture, Michael O’Brien said staff from Rural Solutions SA conducted the training with the help of funding from the Federal aid agency, AusAID.
Mr O’Brien said the training program was part of the Commonwealth’s bid to support the reconstruction and development of Iraq’s agricultural sector.
He said the course participants arrived in Australia at the beginning of May and had attended a graduation ceremony last week (23 June) before returning to Iraq.
“This practical training is an excellent example of international aid being applied in a constructive way, through building the capacity of Iraqi citizens themselves,” Mr O’Brien said.
He said the program gave the Iraqis an opportunity to develop new approaches to working with farmers, in terms of extending new information and ideas on modern dryland farming systems, enhancing food security, and building the capacity and skills of Iraq’s rural people engaged in agriculture.
“The focus was to develop participant skills with agricultural extension methodologies so they can assist farmers to adopt better farming practices as part of the rebuilding process,” Mr O’Brien said.
He said the trainees took part in a variety of activities including group workshops, seminar presentations and field trips and experienced a range of extension delivery models and learned many new communication skills.
“Rural Solutions SA is rapidly becoming a provider of choice for international agricultural training programs,” Mr O’Brien said.
He said as a business unit within PIRSA, Rural Solutions SA had provided on-ground training and development activities in a number of Middle Eastern countries.
1 July, 2010
Aborigines buy into
consumer strategy
A new national consumer strategy has been developed to protect Indigenous consumers.Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gail Gago said the National Indigenous Consumer Strategy identified trading practices, housing and consumer literacy as three priority areas.
Ms Gago said the strategy, Taking Action – Gaining Trust, would run from mid-2010 to 2013.
“Consumer Agencies throughout Australia acknowledge that the needs of Indigenous communities are unique when it comes to consumer protection,” Ms Gago said.
“Due to factors such as geographic isolation, low English literacy levels and fewer choices when it comes to what is available for purchase, Indigenous consumers in remote areas can be exploited more easily.”
The Minister said the strategy’s three priority areas tended to have the most adverse impact on Indigenous consumers.
“Fair Trading Agencies across the nation will work with the Indigenous community, traders, landlords and utilities companies to address this disadvantage.”
Ms Gago said NSW Fair Trading took the lead in developing the strategy, with input from all other jurisdictions.
She said the plan committed Commonwealth, State and Territory consumer protection Agencies to promoting basic consumer rights recognised by the United Nations for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to improving market outcomes for ATSI consumers.
Ms Gago said Agencies must also ensure Indigenous consumers had equal access to its services.
“All State and Territory consumer protection Agencies will work together on the strategy, will regularly review progress and further develop the plan accordingly,” she said.
Ms Gago also invited traders to take steps to make sure they were doing the right thing when it came to Indigenous consumers.
“I’d also like to see Indigenous legal and medical services, Land Councils and housing providers adopt this action plan and put forward suggestions on how real improvements can be achieved for Indigenous people,” she said.
Further information on the strategy was available from www.nics.org.au
1 July, 2010
Plans take Mickey
out of mouse plague
A working party is to be established to manage a State-wide response to the looming mice plague.Minister for Environment and Conservation, Paul Caica and Minister for Agriculture, Michael O’Brien said the working party would examine how industry, community and the Government could work together to manage future mice plagues.
The Ministers said the Government would consult with farmers and communities as part of its review of current policy on the plagues.
Mr Caica said parts of the State, and the Eyre Peninsula in particular, were experiencing an increase in mice numbers which caused distress for farmers and the wider community.
“While we believe the current mice management strategy is appropriate, this working party will be charged with reviewing that strategy and identifying other possible options to support farmers and industry,” Mr Caica said.
He said the working party would explore issues such as baiting, communication, regional monitoring, research and policy review and management options.
Mr Caica said the Working Party would comprise Government, community and industry representatives, including the newly established Biosecurity SA, the Eyre Peninsula Natural Resources Management Board, SA Farmers Federation, Eyre Peninsula farmers, Local Government, the Regional Drought Taskforce and the Eyre Peninsula Regional Development Board.
“The Eyre Peninsula NRM Board expressed their concerns to us about the current mice plague in the region, and has put forward a request to establish a working party,” Mr Caica said.
He urged farmers to keep an eye out for mice around newly-sown crops and encouraged them to employ management strategies if necessary.
Mr O’Brien said he was concerned about the mouse plague’s impact on primary producers who were just emerging from the drought.
“After discussing the issue with farmers and the Eyre Peninsula NRM Board, I feel it is necessary to set in place a sustainable long-term policy regime to meet future outbreaks,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The working party will assist the Government in this process.”
1 July, 2010
Minister unloads
freight report
The Federal Minister for Transport and Regional Development, Anthony Albanese has released the findings of the Adelaide Rail Freight Movement Study, describing it as one of the most comprehensive reviews of the Adelaide region’s rail infrastructure needs.Mr Albanese said the report found the existing line would have the capacity to handle expected freight traffic up until at least 2025.
“Nonetheless we’re determined to get the long term planning right and not repeat the mistakes of the past,” Mr Albanese said.
“Before any major change to one section of the interstate network can be contemplated we need to ascertain its implications for the whole.”
The Minister said the Government would submit the Study to Infrastructure Australia for its consideration as it finalises the National Freight Network Strategy, a blueprint aimed at guiding the future of long-term investment decisions.
He said the South Australian Government would also be able to consider the Study’s findings for possible inclusion in its strategic planning for the State.
Mr Albanese said the Commonwealth was a strong supporter of rail, highlighting a $9 billion investment in Australia’s passenger and freight rail infrastructure as part of the National Building Program.
“This is more than just an investment in new sleepers, track, passing loops, boom gates and signalling technology - it’s an investment in a more productive and prosperous Australia,” Mr Albanese said.
He thanked members of the Project Reference Group for their insights and knowledge, as well as members of the local community who had their say on the study.
A full copy of the study could be downloaded from www.nationbuildingprogram.gov.au
1 July, 2010
PIRSA’s heads up for
livestock round-up
Primary Industry and Resources SA (PIRSA) has advised primary producers they will need to log the movements of all sheep and goats transported to properties with different location codes under the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS).Chief Veterinary Officer with PIRSA, Dr Rob Rahaley said the changes aimed to protect the sheep and goat industries from the effects of an emergency animal disease or food safety issue.
“Concerns have been raised by export markets over the ability of the NLIS-Sheep and Goats to quickly and accurately trace animals in an emergency event,” Dr Rahaley said.
“The changes to the system will enable faster and more reliable tracing of sheep and goats with minimal costs to producers.”
Dr Rahaley said PIRSA Biosecurity, Animal Health had distributed information to all South Australian sheep producers and was holding training sessions across the State.
Chairman of the South Australian NLIS-Sheep and Goat Implementation Committee, Ben Mumford said although the changes were new for producers, recording movements on the NLIS database had been occurring for saleyards and abattoirs for some time.
“Mob-based movements allows groups of animals to be traced electronically and quickly,” Mr Mumford said.
“The only cost to producers is a few minutes to fill in an easy online form.”
He said the consequences of failing to do so might not be cheap or easy.
“While these changes are very necessary for the credibility of the NLIS, they also provide a free and easy way for producers to record their sheep movements,” Mr Mumford said.
“Many producers are already using online applications like Ezi-Grain for other commodities.
“Instead of grain you’re keeping an electronic notebook for sheep and goats.”
Further information on the database was available from www.pir.sa.gov.au
1 July, 2010
Scholarships for PS
Public Servants are being encouraged to apply for the recently launched South Australian Scholarships for Public Sector Employees.
The scholarships provide financial support to organisations wishing to enrol staff into the Australian Applied Management Colloquium, a six-month program aimed at setting a new standard in the provision of skill-based management development training in Australia.
Eligible organisations are encouraged to apply for the $6,000 grant to support the development of frontline and mid-level managers.
Further information on how to apply was available from www.appliedmanagement.com.au
Kangaroo survey begins
The Department for Environment and Heritage has commenced its annual aerial kangaroo survey.
The survey is to estimate the number of kangaroos in pastoral and agricultural regions and will focus south of the dog fence, with the Marla to Oodnadatta region and the area in the Murray Mallee also included.
DEH said the survey was one of the longest continuing wildlife surveys in the world and had been running since 1978.
Ambulance upgrade
The Minister for Health, John Hill, has announced 53 ambulances from the SA Ambulance Service fleet have been replaced so far this year, with another five in commission.
Mr Hill said new ambulances had been allocated to Victor Harbour, Strathalbyn, Goolwa, the Fleurieu Peninsula, Mt Barker, Whyalla, Gawler, Berri, Renmark and metropolitan areas such as Fulham, Campbelltown, Prospect and Salisbury.
The SA Ambulance Service runs a fleet of over 220 ambulances and responds to more than 246,000 incidents a year. Vehicles are replaced every five years.
Grape fund to stay
A meeting of grapegrowers hosted by Agriculture Minister, Michael O’Brien, has decided to keep the South Australian Grape Growers Industry Fund.
The decision to retain the fund, which was established in 2007, was made following an inquiry by retired District Court judge Alan Moss.
Under the fund, one dollar is paid for each tonne of grapes delivered to South Australian winemakers for processing to promote and benefit the industry. It is the only wine grape levy of its kind in Australia.
Endangered fish funded
The Federal Government has announced funding to help save endangered fish in the lower Murray-Darling Basin.
The Australian Research Council will receive $405,000 over three years for its Linkage Projects scheme for programs aimed at reducing the risk of extinction of the Southern purple spotted gudgeon, the Yarra pygmy perch, the Southern pygmy perch, the Murray Hardyhead, and the River blackfish.
The Department for Environment and Heritage is to work with Flinders University, Native Fish Australia (SA), the SA Murray-Darling Basin NRM Board, the South Australian Museum and PIRSA on the project.