SearchArchives for May 2009
28 May, 2009Call for PS to go
public on privacy
The Federal Privacy Commissioner has called on all Government Agencies to nominate for the Australian Privacy Awards, now in their second year.According to the Commissioner, Karen Curtis, departments and agencies should receive more recognition for their good work in the field of privacy.
“Often, all the public hears about is when things go amiss,” Commissioner Curtis said, “but there is also a lot of good privacy work being done.”
“So many Agencies both meet and exceed their privacy obligations and they should be rewarded for their positive contributions to making Australia a place in which privacy is respected.”
Commissioner Curtis said the Awards program was an important way of recognising and rewarding Agencies and businesses.
The Australian Privacy Awards are divided into four categories: the Symantec Government Award for Government Agencies; the Large Business Award for businesses with over 100 staff; the Small-medium Business Award for businesses with less than 100 staff; and the Community and NGO Award for not-for-profit organisations.
Nominations are also been sought for the Australian Privacy Medal, which is presented to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to advancing privacy in Australia.
Former High Court Justice Michael Kirby took out the medal in 2008.
Winners of the 2008 Awards were: Medicare Australia, Telstra Corporation, Data Solutions Australia, the Australian Dental Association NSW Branch and the Child Support Agency.
Nominations close 6 August 2009, with the winners announced in November and more information can be obtained from www.privacy.gov.au/about/awards/index.html
28 May, 2009
Cemetery digs in
for world award
A South Australian cemetery has reached the finals in the United Nations Association of Australia’s 2009 World Environment Day Awards, after it introduced an innovative carbon offset scheme. Chief Executive of Centennial Park cemetery, Bryan Elliott said the recognition was awarded for the introduction of sustainable measures which have offset all the cemetery’s carbon emissions.
“We are the first cemetery in Australia – possibly the world – to manage our entire greenhouse gas emissions with a carbon offset scheme,” Mr Elliott said.
“This includes all cremations, burials and funeral services as well as operational emissions from buildings, garden maintenance, vehicles and equipment.”
Mr Elliott said the cemetery introduced a scheme where carbon offsets were compulsory for every funeral service, cremation and burial.
He said the cemetery had absorbed all the costs for the offsets, which proved more effective than offering the offsets as optional extras.
He said this complemented other sustainability measures that had been put in place at the cemetery.
“Centennial Park has a multi-faceted approach to environmental sustainability,” he said.
“No other cemetery in Australia covers the breadth and depth of environmental initiatives and improvements that we do.
He said in recent years, Centennial Park had reduced operational waste sent to landfill by 97.3 per cent, energy consumption by nine per cent and vehicle emissions by 10 per cent.
He said the cemetery had also improved its crematorium reducing gas consumption by five per cent and electricity consumption by 10 per cent.
“Centennial Park’s environmental journey is ongoing,” he said.
“It forms part of our efforts to be a good corporate citizen and helps to position us as SA’s cemetery of choice.”
“We share our experience with other cemeteries around the world and the broader business community, providing expertise to help them improve their own environmental performance.”
The award winners are to be announced at a presentation dinner in Melbourne on Friday 5 June.
28 May, 2009
Environment plan
gets green light
The Department for Environment and Heritage is holding a conference to educate students about their local environment.The Environmental Education Coordinator for DEH, Natasha Dawson said the South East Youth Environment Conference would provide a fun way for students to actively engage with their environment.
“This conference has been designed to encourage and empower children to take action towards environmental sustainability,” Ms Dawson said.
“Students will coordinate and run the morning workshop and talk about environmental initiatives and programs taking place at their schools.”
The conference is to be held on World Environment Day on Friday 5 June in Mount Gambier.
Ms Dawson said the conference would look at issues surrounding the Blue Lake, biodiversity corridors, native freshwater fish rescues and water quality monitoring at Lake Indawarra.
She said the conference would also give students a chance to do practical fieldwork in the local environment.
“Students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in fieldwork such as the hands-on removal of weeds and the identification of native plants and animals that inhabit the park,” she said.
“This session will be run by local DEH ecologists and rangers at the stringy bark forest within Telford Scrub Conservation Park.”
She said the conference gave students a firsthand look at the conservation work carried out by DEH in national parks and reserves.
She said 11 schools would be involved including Tintinara Area School, Kingston Community School, Mount Burr Primary, Naracoorte South Primary and Kongorong Primary.
She said the conference had been developed by DEH in partnership with the South East Natural Resources Management Board, PIRSA Forestry and the City of Mount Gambier Council.
28 May, 2009
Best in safety
to net awards
Nominations have been called for the 2009 Safe Work Awards, which recognise outstanding workplace health and safety practices. Minister for Industrial Relations, Paul Caica said the awards play an important role in promoting workplace safety.
“These awards not only recognise and reward good practice, they set a clear example for others to follow,” Mr Caica said.
“Some of these are smart technical innovations, some are leading workplace systems, and some are just the hard work and dedication of some very motivated individuals.”
He said people could nominate either themselves, or someone they know, if they think they have made strong contributions toward workplace safety.
He said nominations would close at 5pm on Friday 31 July, with the awards announced and presented at a gala dinner on 30 October at the Adelaide Convention Centre.
Mr Caica said there were six award categories this year, namely the best workplace health and safety management system; best solution to an identified workplace health and safety issue; best workplace health and safety practices in small business; best individual contribution to workplace health and safety; employer of the year; and best public event.
Mr Caica said the award presentations would conclude a month of Safe Work events starting on 4 October.
The Safe Work Awards, he said, were linked with the National Safe Work Australia Awards, with four winners of the South Australian competition receiving automatic nomination to be judged at the national level.
Information on the 2009 Safe Work Awards can be found at www.safework.sa.gov.au
28 May, 2009
Land Corp pencils in
carbon-friendly homes
South Australia’s first carbon-friendly residential development is set to be built at Seaford Heights in South Adelaide. Chief Executive of the Government’s Land Management Corporation (LMC), Wayne Gibbings, said the State had worked with the Fairmont Group to create a residential area that would minimise carbon emissions.
“These measures will help to reduce carbon emissions from the site and the Fairmont Group has committed to offsetting the remaining carbon emissions created through site development and housing construction by buying carbon credits,” Mr Gibbings said.
He said the development would include a range of ecologically sustainable measures, including 6-star energy rating homes, 4-star energy rating residential buildings, water sensitive designs and effective solar alignment.
He said the development would create 1,130 allotments across 77 hectares of land 34 km south of the Adelaide CBD.
“LMC has been working with the residential development industry to implement its Sustainability and Innovation Strategy (SIS) and achieve new ecological standards,” he said.
Managing Director of the Fairmont Group, David Pickard said the achievement of a carbon-managed community was a first for South Australia
He said subdivision design, infrastructure, technology and eco-friendly building guidelines would all contribute to the management of carbon in the project.
“Management of carbon will be achieved by setting higher standards for energy efficiency of homes and other buildings, implementing water sensitive urban design measures for stormwater catchment, and solar orientation of allotments.”
The Mayor of Onkaparinga, Lorraine Rosenberg said effectively responding to climate change was a key part of the local council’s agenda.
She said ensuring energy efficiency in housing development was a key part of this goal but said the area needed further infrastructure and local service development.
“To achieve sustainability, we also need jobs in new areas to reduce the need to travel long distances to work, easy access for residents to shopping and community services, and a modern, efficient public transport system,” Ms Rosenberg said.
“A commitment by the State Government to the extension of an electrified rail service and provision of a station at Seaford heights is absolutely critical to the long term sustainability of Seaford Heights.”
28 May, 2009
Students line up for
Enrol to Vote week
The Australian Electoral Commission has announced that National Enrol to Vote Week is to be held in secondary schools from 27 July to 2 August this year.National Electoral Commissioner, Ed Killesteyn said the Commission expected at least 1,700 schools to participate in the event, which would encourage students to enrol and participate in the voting process.
Commissioner Killesteyn said Enrol to Vote Week had received strong support in 2008, with over 20,000 high school students aged 17 and 18 filling in enrolment forms.
“Currently one in five 18-year-olds is not enrolled to vote, and many 17-year-olds are not aware that they can enrol now so they are able to vote as soon as they turn 18,” he said.
“Enrolling to vote is something you don’t have to wait until you’re 18 to do.”
Commissioner Killesteyn said the focus of this year’s campaign would be to encourage 17-year-olds to enrol.
He said this would enable them to be able to vote hassle free upon turning 18.
Commissioner Killesteyn said schools could register to participate in Enrol to Vote Week 2009 by visiting www.enroltovoteweek.aec.gov.au or by phoning 13 23 26 and selecting the Enrol to Vote Week option.
28 May, 2009
Councils dress up
women’s plan
The Local Government Association has released its draft Women in Local Government Strategy, aimed at increasing the representation of women in Local Government. The report was prepared by the Women in Local Government Joint Working Group which was established to assist the Minister for State/Local Government Relations, the LGA and the Office of State Local Government Relations identify key issues relating to the under-representation of women in Local Government and develop strategies to address them.
The LGA report said that currently only 26.6 per cent of South Australian Council members were women, and only 16 per cent of LGA female staff held senior managerial roles.
The LGA’s report recommended a range of strategies to encourage the participation of women in local council.
The report calls for the improvement of the reporting requirements for local Councils, to ensure more gender-specific data is recorded.
It said this data would allow for a comparison of gender participation across States, would help identify the reasons women leave local Councils, and would allow local Councils to set better targets for increasing women’s participation.
The report also recommended measures to promote local government as an employer of choice for women.
According to the report, these measures would include a marketing strategy aimed at women and information packs for Centrelink and high schools to promote employment in local Councils.
The report encouraged local Councils to adopt more flexible working conditions, including improved childcare support.
The LGA recommended the adoption of paid maternity leave and the development of professional training and development initiatives aimed at women.
The report also recommends developing a register to promote secondment opportunities from the public service and called for the establishment of a National Forum for Women in Local Government, with the possibility of Adelaide becoming a host.
It also recommended the development of an award to recognise councils who are considered the best employers of women.
The draft report will be available for comment until 30 June 2009.
28 May, 2009
Fire funding fans
upgrades to service
The Fire and Emergency services sector has received a funding boost of $1.8 million to expand the Country Fire Service and Volunteer Marine Rescue fleets, and improve emergency call centres and radio communications. Minister for Emergency Services, Michael Wright said the funding had been made available through the Community Emergency Services Fund.
“Each year there is a contingency allocated, which allows for access to emergency funds for major incidents and other requirements that can arise,” Mr Wright said.
“While the 08/09 bushfire danger season saw periods of extreme fire risk for South Australia, prevention strategies and early coordinated intervention, greatly assisted in preventing and containing major incidents.”
He said these early prevention measures had helped to save a significant proportion of the Emergency Services Fund, allowing it to be redirected toward other initiatives.
Mr Wright said around $1 million would be provided for the provision of five additional bulk water carriers for the Country Fire Service and around $450,000 would be used to establish communications training facilities for the Metropolitan Fire Service.
He said a further $140,000 would be used to buy an amphibious aircraft for the Victor Harbor-Goolwa Sea Rescue Squadron, with $60,000 to be used for improving on-the-ground radio communication for fire fighters.
Chief Executive of the SA Fire and Emergency Services Commission, David Place, welcomed the additional funding saying it would help to improve the capabilities of South Australia’s Emergency Services.
“This funding will assist our staff and volunteers be better prepared to deliver the services required to respond when incidents occur,” Mr Place said.
Mr Wright said $12.9 million was also spent during 2008/09 on 40 or so fire appliances across the emergency services sector.
He said a further $11.7 million was also being allocated towards constructing new emergency services facilities, including the MFS station at Paradise and the joint CFS/SES/Forestry SA Emergency Services Centre in Mt Gambier.
28 May, 2009
Rent plan is love all
in tenants’ game
The Government has acted to quarantine the Federal Government’s recent pension increases from being included in the State Government’s housing rents. Premier Mike Rann said it would be unfair for pensioners who live in State housing to have to use the extra money to pay off rents to the Government.
“This money has been provided to make life easier for pensioners,” Mr Rann said.
“It would not be in the spirit of the initiative to see some of the money flow through to the States.”
The Federal Government increased the aged pension by $32.49 for singles and $10.14 for couples in its recent budget, a move welcomed by Mr Rann.
Minister for Housing, Jennifer Rankine said the Government was ensuring HousingSA rents didn’t go up as a result of the pension increases.
“We have minor increases every six months for CPI but we will make sure this $32.49 increase is not taken into account,” Ms Rankine said.
“In this current climate, we don't think pensioners should have to bear a rent increase as a result of the additional once-off support.”
Mr Rann said seniors had been struggling to make ends meet in the past few years.
“In recognising that, last month I announced free public transport to holders of a State Seniors Card in off peak times, all weekend and on public holidays from July 1 this year,” Mr Rann said.
“This scheme is a thank you to those who have contributed much to South Australia’s development and a recognition of the problems being experienced by the elderly during the current period of global economic downturn.”
28 May, 2009
Lessons learned from
school involvement
Local communities have set up discussion groups to look at the future of local schools in their area, following the State Government’s proposal for voluntary school restructures. Minister for Education, Jane Lomax-Smith has commended the initiative, saying the recent announcement of Federal Government funding for South Australian schools has provided a new impetus for change.
“Many schools have been talking about changes for up to two years, but now realise that the Federal Government’s investment presents a unique opportunity,” Dr Lomax-Smith said.
“The decision for local communities is whether to invest those funds into existing schools or a new schooling configuration that might better meet the needs of children into the future.”
Dr Lomax-Smith said the discussions were part of the State Government’s $216m Education Works initiative to invest in voluntary school restructures.
She said the State Government had guaranteed no schools would close or merge without the support of local communities.
“Local communities are best placed to know what’s best for their children and make decisions about better opportunities for their future,” she said.
“A community like Whyalla, for example, currently has 19 schools and preschools servicing a school-aged population of about 3,400 children.”
She said currently the discussions were taking place in the communities of Port Augusta, Port Pirie and Whyalla.
She said the huge level of Federal Government funding provided a good opportunity for schools to restructure local education.
“Every primary school in South Australia is eligible for Federal funds to build new gymnasiums, halls, libraries and classrooms,” she said.
“While the Commonwealth has set tight timeframes for spending of these funds, we are working with them in regards to schools considering significant restructures.”
28 May, 2009
Food awards are
off and cooking
Entries are being called for the 2009 Premier’s Food Awards, which recognise outstanding achievement and excellence in the State’s food industry. Executive Director of Rural Solutions SA, Locky McLaren said Rural Solutions SA would help support the awards by sponsoring the “Services to Industry” category.
Mr McLaren said Rural Solutions SA wanted to ensure businesses were recognised for their outstanding and innovative service that assists the South Australian food industry.
To be eligible for this category, he said, businesses must provide a service to the South Australian food or beverage industry.
He said such services could include logistics, packaging, finance, legal, tourism, marketing, consulting, design or training.
Last year's winner of the Services to Industry category was the Adelaide Showground Farmers Market.
Mr McLaren said this group had provided a unique business incubation service to new food businesses in South Australia by supplying a marketing, promotional and cost effective business support system.
He said other finalists in last year’s Services to Industry category were the SA Freight Council and the Spencer Gulf and West Coast Prawn Fishermen’s Association.
He said the variety of businesses vying for the Services to Industry category in recent years reflected diverse ways in which companies can add value to the food and beverage industry.
Nominations for the Awards close on Friday, 31 July.
28 May, 2009
Blaze of publicity
for new firefighters
The ranks of the South Australian Metropolitan Fire Service have increased by 18 as the latest graduates of its 14-week training program are welcomed to the fold.Minister for Emergency Services, Michael Wright congratulated the 16 men and two women on their graduation saying it was a pleasure to see so many enthusiastic individuals join the MFS.
“They should be extremely proud of the way they’ve achieved, given the many physical challenges they’ve faced as part of a stringent selection process,” Mr Wright said.
“I wish these impressive individuals the best of luck in their new role and commend them on their efforts to successfully fulfill their dream of becoming fire-fighters.”
He said the final 18 trainees were selected from hundreds of applicants to undertake the training program, which included general fire-fighting exercises, breathing apparatus training, compartment fire-fighting as well as a range of technical rescue situations.
He said the training program is of very high quality and was not only a credit to the instructors but also to its developers from the MFS Learning & Development Department.
Chief Officer of MFS, Grant Lupton, said the recruits exemplified the fire service's focus on safety and the importance of teamwork.
“I would like to commend our new firefighters for supporting one another during their intensive, challenging 14 weeks of training,” Mr Lupton said.
“Our recruits have worked hard as a team to gain the skills that will enable them to carry out their duties in a safe, effective and efficient manner.”
Mr Wright said the State Government was committed to providing emergency services with the necessary resources to keep up with the ever-changing nature of emergency management.
He said the current Government had recruited more than 200 new MFS fire fighters.
“We’re continually on the hunt for innovative ways to provide more efficient methods of fire control, faster extinguishment and greater conservation of resources including water,” Mr Wright said.
Additionally, he said the Government had committed funds for the construction of a fire station at Seaford, following on from the recent construction of a station at Paradise, which is now operational.
28 May, 2009
SA education is
high class act
The occasion of Public Education Day has been used to celebrate the high standard of education in South Australia. Minister for Education, Jane Lomax-Smith said the Day provided South Australians with a chance to recognise the excellence of their public education system.
“At the heart of that excellence is a workforce of committed and hard-working teachers, principals, school services officers and other staff members,” Dr Lomax-Smith said.
“Teachers do so much more than teach children skills for the future.
“Often teachers are trusted and significant role models in a child’s life.”
Dr Lomax-Smith said numerous South Australian public schools had waiting lists, reflecting the level of confidence parents have in the quality of the State’s public education system.
She said the Government was seeking to build on this confidence through its $216 million Education Works Initiative, which was set to build new schools and upgrade existing facilities across the State.
“As well as six brand new schools in metropolitan Adelaide, we are investing in schools that voluntarily restructure services for the benefit of children,” she said.
“We want the quality of our classrooms and school buildings to reflect the high quality of education that goes on inside.”
Public Education Day was held on 21 May, 2009.
28 May, 2009
Rezone is go zone
for public comment
Public comment has been invited on a plan to rezone land at Gawler East in Adelaide’s north. Acting Minister for Urban Development and Planning, Michael Wright said the proposed rezoning would see the construction of 2,500 houses over 10 years, increasing the residential capacity of the Gawler area.
“The millions of dollars to be invested to develop housing in Gawler East reflect the continued strong demand for new and affordable homes in Adelaide’s north despite the pressures on the local economy from the global financial crisis,” Mr Wright said.
“This housing development and its associated retail and community centres are expected to generate jobs within South Australia’s building construction industry throughout the coming decade.”
He said members of the community, local government, industry and community groups were urged to raise any concerns about the proposed rezoning during the two-month consultation period.
He said they had until 16 July to lodge submissions with the Department of Planning and Local Government and a public meeting would be held on 30 July 2009 in the Reserve Room of the Gawler Arms Hotel.
Mr Wright said the proposed rezoning would affect about 400 hectares of land across Gawler East, Evanston Park, Gawler South and Kalbeeba and also a disused quarry.
“Developer Delfin Lend Lease is currently working with both the Town of Gawler and the Barossa Council to develop some 219 hectares of land affected by the rezoning,” he said.
“The rezoning also envisages the rehabilitation of the Cemex Australia sand quarry on Calton Road, so that this land can be returned to the South Australian community.”
He said much of the land had been brought inside the Urban Growth Boundary in December 2007 to ensure steady supplies of land for affordable housing.
He said the new zoning would seek to accommodate a mix of housing styles as well as community, educational, recreational, retail and employment purposes.
He said the proposed rezoning also supports the inclusion of wetlands and stormwater management initiatives.
More information about the consultation can be found at www.dplg.sa.gov.au
28 May, 2009
Cooling off period
for hot used cars
A cooling off period has been introduced for second-hand car and motorcycle sales to protect consumers from unfair dealer tactics.Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gail Gago said the amendments to the Second hand Vehicle Dealers Act 1995, would also benefit dealerships by raising consumer confidence in the industry.
“These changes will turn up the heat on dodgy dealers and rein in those who bring the industry into disrepute,” Ms Gago said.
“They’re designed to help combat high pressure sales tactics by introducing a two-day cooling off period during which consumers can consider their purchase.”
She said the cooling off period would give consumers two business days to arrange a mechanical inspection and weigh up their final decision.
But she said buyers could waive the right to this cooling off period, allowing them to drive the vehicle away immediately, if needed.
“Dealers are on notice that the number of waivers will be reportable and the waiving of rights is intended to be the exception not the rule,” she said.
“Abuse of this system will prompt swift action to further tighten the requirements.”
Ms Gago said the Government was also attempting to tighten constraints on traders to make it easier to prosecute unlicensed car dealers.
She said consumers would also be able to seek faster Government responses to dodgy second hand car dealing, as authority for dealing with the issue had been transferred from the Magistrates Court to the Commissioner for Consumer Affairs.
She said maximum penalties for unlicensed dealing had been increased from $20,000 to $100,000 and expiation fees had been increased to $315 from $105.
She said the cooling off periods would not apply to private sales, auction sales, new car sales, or purchases by companies.
28 May, 2009
Extra funds poured
into Basin
Additional funding of $116,000 is to be set aside to ensure the sustainability of the Lake Eyre Basin. Minister for Environment and Conservation, Jay Weatherill, said the funding would be used in conjunction with a five-year plan for Lake Eyre which was recently endorsed by the South Australian, Queensland, Northern Territory and Commonwealth Governments.
“Lake Eyre Basin is one of the biggest inland river systems in the world, extending across the southeast of the Northern Territory, southwest Queensland and northeast South Australia,” Mr Weatherill said.
“It’s important that everyone involved with the Basin can work together on ensuring the best long-term outcomes for the area, so I’m pleased to announce additional funding to that end.” He said the extra funding would be used to update and print maps of the Lake Eyre Basin and to improve coordination with local Aboriginal communities.
He said this would help ensure the success of the five-year plan, which was the result of consultation with landholders, scientists, tourism operators, conservation groups and Natural Resources Management Boards.
Mr Weatherill said the Lake Eyre region was currently experiencing rapid inflows of water from the Queensland floods, bringing life back to the drought-stricken region.
“After eight years of drought, floodwater from Queensland is spreading across the surface of Lake Eyre at a rate of a metre per minute,” he said.
“Huge colonies of waterbirds have arrived and are starting to breed, transforming the region.”
Mr Weatherill said scientists conducting aerial surveys on the lake estimate that tens of thousands of pelicans, ducks and other water-birds had arrived since the water began to flow.
He said an estimated six million birds of more than 60 species were expected to be drawn to the region by the water.
The Minister said the extra Government funding would be provided in addition to the State’s $125,000 annual contribution to the Lake Eyre Basin Agreement.
28 May, 2009
Bathroom disasters
The Office of Consumer and Business Affairs has warned consumers over an increasing number of botched bathroom renovations by unlicensed trades people.
OCBA has received 47 complaints over dodgy bathroom renovations over the last two years.
Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gail Gago said she was disturbed about the amount of bathroom renovation disasters.
“Consumers are being left with unfinished work, absolutely appalling workmanship and expensive repair bills because unlicensed contractors are just not doing the work properly,” Ms Gago said.
Women surveyed
Public Servants have been urged to participate in a Survey on the proportion of women on boards in Australia.
The Australian virtual Centre for Leadership for Women is conducting the survey after data from the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency showed the proportion of women to men on corporate boards and executive leadership roles had declined from 8.7 per cent of board directorships in 2006 to 8.3 per cent in 2008.
The survey closes on 12 August 2009 and is available at www.leadershipforwomen.com.au
Excellence in science
Nominations have been called for the South Australian Science Excellence Awards, which showcase the best science in South Australia.
Minister for Science, Michael O’Brien said the Awards recognise excellence across the full spectrum of scientific research activity, including discovery and applied research.
Nominations are being sought for South Australian Scientist of the Year, Excellence in Research, and Science Educator of the Year.
The awards are to be held on Friday 5 June.
Green development award
The Land Management Corporation has received its fourth national award for the Lochiel Park green village at Campbelltown, north-east of Adelaide.
The LMC won the Housing Industry Association’s GreenSmart Award for Community Development at an award ceremony at Parliament House, Canberra last week.
Lochiel Park was designed as a 106 home development, which includes solar panels, 7.5 star energy efficient house design, more than 160,000 plants and trees, and a recycled stormwater system.
Pipped off
Telstra has announced it will discontinue STD “pip tones”, the five beeps heard at the commencement of national long distance and satellite calls.
Customers who had already requested to not hear the tones will experience no change. The announcement is part of Telstra’s network upgrade.
Arts market announced
The Australian Performing Arts Market is to be held in Adelaide from 22 to 26 February 2010.
APAM, billed by organisers as the biggest event of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, is a one-stop opportunity to experience the best in contemporary performing arts from the Australian region.
Applications are now open to Australian artists and companies, with further information available from www.performingartsmarket.com.au
National Memorial for Sydney
The HMAS Sydney II Memorial in Geraldton, Western Australia has been made a national memorial.
The HMAS Sydney II Memorial commemorates the loss of HMAS Sydney II and her entire crew of 645 men in 1941.
The Memorial was dedicated on 18 November 2001 and overlooks the Indian Ocean where HMAS Sydney II was lost.
Button prize open
Non-fiction writers have been encouraged to enter the John Button Prize, which seeks to enhance the quality of political writing and debate in Australia.
The Prize was created in memory of the late Industry Minister, Senator and writer, John Button, and awards $20,000 to the author of the best piece of writing on politics or public policy over the past year.
Entries close 8 June 2009, with more information available from www.johnbuttonprize.org.au/
21 May, 2009
Public land laws to
dump on dumpers
Changes to State environment laws will see tough new penalties for the misuse of public land. Minister for Environment and Conservation, Jay Weatherill said fines of up to $20,000 could now be imposed for anyone squatting, dumping rubbish, riding motorbikes, or destroying sand dunes on public land.
He said before these changes the maximum fine for any of the offences was $100.
“These tough new penalties send a clear message that damaging our environment in these ways is not acceptable,” Mr Weatherill said.
“The most serious offences, such as deliberate dumping of industrial waste would attract fines of up to $20,000, while the changes will empower police to issue on-the-spot expiation notices for more minor offences.”
Mr Weatherill said damage to public land cost the State Government and Local Councils large amounts of money in clean-up costs each year.
For example, he said, dumping car bodies on public land not only costs money to clean up but also creates a haven for rabbits and foxes, increasing the costs of pest control.
He said the changes to the Crown Lands Act would also help to modernise the law surrounding public lands.
“We’ve updated the legislation to increase penalties, but also to cover more contemporary offences, such as riding motorbikes off tracks through native vegetation,” he said.
“The old offences under the Crown Lands Act such as stock wandering and leaving a gate open did not cover some of the modern-day offences that now are causing serious environmental damage.”
He said the Government now had the power to request a person to fix public land they have damaged, or alternatively, charge them the costs of fixing it.
21 May, 2009
Workplace website has
answers for young
A new website for young people to ask questions about workplace safety, fair pay and conditions has been launched by the Minister for Industrial Relations, Paul Caica.Mr Caica said the site would provide workplace-relevant information for young people and their parents, caregivers and employers.
“We know that young people have a relative lack of experience in the workplace and are more vulnerable to exploitation,” Mr Caica said.
“This puts them at greater risk of being injured at work, as well as being underpaid through illegal practices, such as so-called ‘trial work’.”
He said the site, titled Youth@Work, would provide information on what safety measures should be in place at a workplace, and advise young people on how to ensure they receive proper pay, conditions, entitlements, and fair treatment.
“These concerns and many other workplace issues of importance to young workers have been addressed in the Youth@Work site,” Mr Caica said.
He said by arming young people with information regarding their rights, the Government was allowing them to look after themselves at work.
In preparing the website, Mr caica said SafeWork SA had heard from students and young workers from across metropolitan Adelaide and regional South Australia, and had also conducted an online survey.
He said this consultation had showed a lack of knowledge about awards and enterprise agreements, trial work and bullying or harassment in the workplace.
The Youth@Work site can be found on the SafeWork SA website at www.safework.sa.gov.au/youth
21 May, 2009
Federal guarantee is
security for States
Details of the Commonwealth’s offer to guarantee State and Territory borrowing have been released by the Federal Treasurer, Wayne Swan.The Guarantee is to be administered by the Reserve Bank of Australia.
The Commonwealth announced the Guarantee in March to protect infrastructure development from the ravages of the global financial crisis by providing a time-limited, guarantee over State and Territory borrowing.
According to Mr Swan, the measure recognised that pulling back on nation-building infrastructure investment under current circumstances would hinder a recovery from the global recession, resulting in slower growth and higher unemployment into the future.
Mr Swan said that as most States and Territories provided their own guarantee over borrowings of their issuing entities, the Commonwealth would guarantee the obligations of the States and Territories rather than the obligations of the issuing entities directly.
He said the guarantee would be voluntary and unconditional but would not be able to be applied to borrowings of non‑Government owned entities.
Mr Swan said the States and Territories would have 28 days from the date they first apply to guarantee new issuances to decide whether to cover existing securities, allowing them to assess market conditions and determine whether they need to use the Guarantee.
He said the Guarantee would cover bond lines of up to 15 years including indexed securities and those with cross default clauses.
“This will cover the majority of the States and Territories' actively traded stock and will support liquidity in the secondary bond market.”
He said the Guarantee would commence once an Appropriation Bill to be introduced into the Federal Parliament during the Winter sittings receives Royal Assent and a Deed of Guarantee is executed.
The Treasurer said the Government was working closely with the States and Territories to finalise the Deed of Guarantee and the Scheme Rules.
He said the arrangement would operate until market conditions normalize and full details of the Guarantee could be found at www.stateguarantee.gov.au
21 May, 2009
Drug dogs high on
success of program
South Australian police have revealed that its drug dogs program has led to 327 people being caught in its first six months of operation.SAPOL said the offenders were detected by its team of passive alert drug detection dogs across the State since October.
Police Minister, Michael Wright, said the dogs and their handlers were producing excellent results and helping to deter drug offenders.
“Since we introduced the legislation, the three drug detection dogs have been deployed on 96 occasions between 23 October 2008 and 30 April 2009,” Mr Wright said.
“They have patrolled many metropolitan areas and popular nightspots such as Hindley Street, Adelaide, Glenelg, Bonython Park for ‘dance music’ concerts and the ‘Big Day Out’ event at Wayville.”
SAPOL said it had seized 577 ecstasy tablets, three LSD tablets, 551 grams of cannabis, 11 grams of amphetamines, six grams of ketamine and two grams of cocaine through the drug dogs program.
Mr Wright said the dogs had also been used in regional operations at Mt. Gambier, Naracoorte, Renmark, Whyalla, Port Augusta and Victor Harbor during ‘Schoolies Week’.
He said the dogs had been used at Adelaide airport and railway stations as well as along highways commonly used for drug trafficking.
“This Government is committed to protecting the people of South Australia and helping to ensure their safety at dining and entertainment precincts,” he said.
“Police now have the power to execute drug detection operations in places identified as hotspots for drug dealing and use.”
21 May, 2009
Goanna call is
talk of the town
The response to a public call for information that might save an endangered goanna has been described by the Department for Environment and Heritage as ‘overwhelming.’Ecologist with the DEH, Kirstin Long said the Department was very grateful to the community for recording 50 new sightings of the Rosenberg’s Goanna in the Mount Lofty Ranges.
“Prior to this recent community survey for the Rosenberg’s Goanna, there had been only 12 recorded sightings of the species in the Mount Lofty Ranges over the past 10 years,” Ms Long said.
“We’re very grateful to the community who provided detailed information on goanna sightings, including the date, location, a description of the reptile and even photos.”
Ms Long said the Goannas were at risk of becoming extinct due to habitat loss and predation.
She said this made sightings of the reptile extremely valuable.
“This has given us a better understanding of the distribution and status of the Rosenberg’s Goanna in this region,” Ms Long said.
“The public registered sightings of the goanna from the Barossa down to the southern Fleurieu Peninsula, but the Mount Compass area appears to be a stronghold for the species.”
She said the community could help to protect the Goannas by protecting native bushland from further clearing, encouraging the rehabilitation of native habitats, controlling dogs when in the bush, and taking care on roads in vegetated areas.
Sightings of the Goanna can still be registered by calling Kirstin Long on (08) 8336 0919.
21 May, 2009
No tiers for Senator
in nation reform call
The Leader of the National Party in the Senate, Queensland Senator Barnaby Joyce has called for reform of Australia’s three tiers of Government.In an address to the National Press Club in Canberra, Senator Joyce said the inability by some States to manage their affairs meant they were untenable.
“More and more the affairs of our Nation are run by the Federal Government,” Senator Joyce said.
“Whether we like this or not, it has become the natural course of the political stream.
“In the near future, States for all intents and purposes, will be irrelevant.”
He said there were Australian States who were “effectively bankrupt” and had lost the capacity to deliver basic services which was their core function.
He said it was only the Federal Government’s underwriting of those troubled States that kept them viable.
While Senator Joyce said he supported the Federal Parliament’s upper and lower House structure, he thought changes were needed to ensure better representation in the Senate.
He said Senators should be selected to represent regions within a State, rather than the whole State.
Senator Joyce criticised the current system, pointing to Tasmania’s 12 Senators and comparing them to the Gold Coast which had roughly the same population but no Senators based in the region.
He said regional Australia would be better served if each region selected two Senators.
“If New York can only have two Senators, the same as Montana, then Brisbane can have two Senators and North Queensland [can] have two Senators and four other regions in Queensland two each as well, elected at each election,” he said.
Senator Joyce also called for Constitutional recognition of Local Government as essential in keeping the “spread of power” in Australia.
He said the Federal Government should directly appropriate Councils for the provision of certain services, with strong oversight to stop “nepotism and corruption” at the local level.
21 May, 2009
New patient safety
rules bedded down
Tighter and more stringent patient safety measures have been introduced into South Australian hospitals with the Government adopting national Guidelines on the priorities for patient safety.Minister for Health, John Hill announced the move saying the new Guidelines were also more targeted than those in force in the past and would provide doctors, nurses and hospital staff with strong guidance on the protection of patients.
He also announced that a Safety and Quality Committee had been set up to deal with planning, implementing, monitoring and reviewing patient safety.
Mr Hill said South Australian hospitals had a huge workload, with over 360,000 admissions and around 1.5 million outpatient appointments.
He said although SA Health was doing a good job, there was always room for improvement.
“Any error is to be regretted, but there is no mistake that cannot be learned from,” Mr Hill said.
“By encouraging a culture of openness amongst staff, patients can be confident that their safety is an absolute priority.”
He said earlier this month, SA Health published the Patient Satisfaction Survey which showed an overall satisfaction score for 2008 of 88 per cent.
“I want everyone to be included in the drive to ensure patients’ safety – doctors, nurses, the whole community.”
Mr Hill said compensation claims against the State’s hospitals were settled by SA Health, with the cost of these claims being paid through SA Health’s insurance.
He said around $0.8 million was paid between July and December 2008 with $5.7 million paid in the last financial year.
He said this year SA Health had already acted to reduce errors by adopting national priorities on safety and quality, improving patient identification and preventing hospital acquired infections.
21 May, 2009
Visitors descend on
Tourism website
The South Australian Tourism Commission has revealed that since launching the State’s biggest ever tourism marketing campaign in February, its website has logged over 228,000 visits.Tourism Minister, Jane Lomax-Smith said the Isn’t It About Time campaign has already proved a success with two months still remaining.
“This campaign is specifically designed to lure high-spending city dwellers from Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide to South Australia’s regions,” Dr Lomax-Smith said.
“Since its launch, visits to southaustralia.com have skyrocketed, bringing our target market to the more than 3,000 tourism products and experiences that underpin the site.”
Dr Lomax-Smith said the Government had invested $4.5 million in the campaign with around $3 million contributed by industry partners.
She said the campaign had generated a large amount of public interest resulting in the increase in site visits and phone and email inquiries.
“In February, site visits were up 23 per cent on the same month last year, and in March, there were more than 125,000 visits to southuastralia.com – a 38.5 per cent increase compared to March 2008,” she said.
“The campaign also generated 10,000 phone calls and emails to the South Australian Visitor and Travel Centre in its first three weeks.”
The South Australian Tourism Commission said for every enquiry the Government generates, another three would go directly to travel agents.
Dr Lomax-Smith said this meant an additional 30,000 people had visited other South Australian tourism websites or called travel agents and tourism operators.
She said the marketing campaign was part of the Government’s push to make tourism a $6.3 billion industry by 2014.
“Tourism is a significant economic contributor to the State and the current economic climate means now is the time to act most strategically and purposefully to encourage more people to take a unique South Australian holiday,” she said.
“The interstate component of the campaign, which has so far included targeted TV, online and print advertising, as well as editorial, continues until June, by which time it will have reached 95 per cent of the target audience 28 times.”
21 May, 2009
Sand top-ups get
down to nitty-gritty
A damaging storm that hit Adelaide on the Anzac Day weekend has forced the Department for Environment and Heritage to modify its annual sand replenishment program for the city’s beachesManager of DEH’s Adelaide’s Living Beaches program, Rob Tucker said the program would be rescheduled to ensure there was sufficient sand to buffer against further storm activity.
“This was a one in 13-year storm event,” Mr Tucker said.
“In some locations, the storm lowered beach levels and formed a scarp on the seaward face of the dunes.”
He said the Semaphore South dune rehabilitation carting, which was to commence on 27 April, had been delayed until the current sand carting program is completed:
He said this program involved carting 20,000 cubic metres of sand from the Semaphore Breakwater at Bower Road to Semaphore Park.
Additionally, the program would cart 25,000 cubic metres from the Torrens Outlet to Henley Beach South beginning on 13 May with an expected completion date of 29 May.
He said a further 50,000 cubic metres of sand would be carted from the Torrens Outlet to the West Beach Dunes in late May, with the transfer expected to last around six to eight weeks.
Finally, Mr Tucker said, up to 25,000 cubic metres would be moved from Semaphore Jetty to Semaphore South, as part of the Semaphore South Dune Rehabilitation.
21 May, 2009
CD does rounds for
healthier children
Children from a South Australian primary school have recorded a CD for the Australian Sports Commission to encourage other children across Australia to lead healthy lifestyles.A spokesperson for the ASC said the CD was part of a joint campaign with Diabetes Australia, aimed at educating around 150,000 children about the health benefits of sport.
The music CD involves children from Adelaide’s Meadows Primary School which is part of the ASC’s Active After-school Communities program (AASC) and the music was written by South Australian singer and ASC staff member, Kristen Lawler.
The Principal of Meadows Primary School, Jacqueline Stratfold said the event was a great experience for the kids.
“Our school has a strong choir and has been involved with the AASC program from the very beginning,” Mrs Stratfold said.
“It is wonderful for both the students and staff involved to be acknowledged in this way and to see the two programs coming together.”
The ASC spokesperson said students from the Meadows Primary School provided backing vocals on the song.
He said the music was to be accompanied by a hip–hop style dance sequence, choreographed by Gymnastics Australia.
Mrs Stratfold said her students were thrilled by the prospect of working with a professional singer.
“The students are incredibly excited about this unique learning opportunity,” she said.
“The experience of performing in a professional recording studio and learning from experts in the field will be a memorable occasion.”
According to the ASC, a rehearsal was held at the school on Monday, 18 May followed by a trip to a professional studio on Wednesday 20 May to record the final vocals for the CD.
The initiative is part of the ASC’s Turning to Sport for Good Health campaign.
21 May, 2009
Higher education
comes out on top
Far-reaching reforms to the Australian higher education sector have been announced in response to the Bradley Review of Australian Higher Education.A package of $5.7 billion over four years was announced in the Federal Budget to go towards a number of measures, including an additional 55,000 university places across Australia for students from lower socioeconomic status backgrounds by 2020.
Other reforms include resources to promote equity and performance funding tied to quality; an increase to university indexation; a phased move to address the gap in funding for the indirect cost of research; and changes to student income support to help needy students and increase postgraduate stipends.
There would also be a $3 billion investment in infrastructure through the Commonwealth’s Education Investment Fund and recurrent funding of $2.1 billion over the forward estimates for higher education teaching, learning and research.
In a joint statement, the Federal Ministers for Education, Julia Gillard and Innovation, Senator Kim Carr said the investment was a key part of the Government’s “education revolution”.
“By investing now, the Government will prepare Australia for growth beyond the global recession with that growth driven by high skilled and environmentally sustainable jobs,” the Ministers said.
They said the announcement would mean less red tape and micromanagement for universities and improved facilities for teaching, learning and research.
“These reforms will drive a greater focus on students and their needs, an increased emphasis on quality teaching and learning and increased participation by students from disadvantaged backgrounds,” Ms Gillard and Senator Carr said.
“These changes will allow more Australians, irrespective of their socio-economic circumstances, to access a quality higher education qualification.”
21 May, 2009
Targetted training
hits the bullseye
South Australian employers, industry bodies, employment services and registered training organisations have all responded strongly to an invitation to take part in targetted training programs as part of the Federal Government’s Productivity Places Program for Job Seekers scheme.Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education, Michael O’Brien said the response to the program had helped the State secure additional funding to offer an extra 248 qualification places.
Mr O’Brien said the program would provide South Australia with more than $40 million over the next four years, providing benefits to 12,000 job seekers and funding for 2,748 qualification places.
“The main beneficiaries of the program include the building and construction, health, primary industries and retail sectors,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Industry sectors are demanding highly skilled workers and it is vital that job seekers are able to acquire the skills and qualifications needed to help them enter or re-enter the labour market.”
He said the program, which is administered by the State Government, would fund 1,413 nationally endorsed qualifications at Certificate II level; 827 at Certificate III level; 270 at Certificate IV level and 238 at Diploma level.
He said the program would give job seekers the training they need to help them gain employment in a wide range of industry sectors.
“Increasing the skills of job seekers during the global financial downturn will help ensure we have a highly-skilled workforce in SA when the economy turns around,” he said.
He said this success followed the announcement of the first part of the program in September 2008, which saw existing members of the workforce provided with more than $14 million to upgrade their skills and qualifications.
21 May, 2009
Transport training
on the right track
A joint program between the State Government and the transport and logistics industry is expected to lead to 155 transport workers being trained in operational supply chain lean principles.Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education, Michael O’Brien said the Lean Principle and Cadetship Industry Partnership Program would also take 10 unemployed young people under its wing to gain experience with a number of transport and logistics industry employers.
“This project is aimed at improving company procedures and will help to reduce ‘pasture to plate’ processes by implementing lean principles in supply chain organisations and training and recruiting new staff,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Lean principles involve both operational and organisational changes to work effectively with companies needing to provide their employees with high level skills and awareness of processes in all aspects of the supply chain.”
Mr O’Brien said the lean principles address three key areas within a supply chain by eliminating waste, maximising efficiency and implementing continuous improvement practices.
He said the lean principle program was a joint $891,000 initiative with Transport and Distribution Training SA, and was part of the Government’s South Australia Works Industry Partnership Program.
“The two companies involved in the initiative - T&R Pastoral and Great Southern Railway - are supporting the project by enabling 155 of their employees to attend training at work sites during work hours,” he said.
“They’ll also document best practice, identify blockages and up-skilling needs of employees, as well as providing their training facilities and equipment.”
He said the 10 young trainees would receive work placements with Cleanaway, BAE Systems, Harris Refrigerated, Yellow Cabs, Aussie Fast, Great Southern Rail, Macklins and Allied Pickfords and each company would provide a full time mentor to assist the cadets with their on-the-job training and work based projects.
Mr O’Brien said the Government would provide $358,300 towards the 12-month project, with the industry contributing $532,750.
21 May, 2009
Double desal is
in the pipeline
Adelaide’s planned desalination plant is to double in size to 100 gigalitres under a proposal announced by the Premier, Mike Rann.Mr Rann said the State would match the Federal Government’s Budget commitment of $228 million to upgrade the plant and reduce the community’s reliance on the River Murray.
“The plant will now provide Adelaide with up to half of its annual water use and will be powered using sustainable energy sources,” Mr Rann said.
“The estimated cost of the expansion is an extra $450 million for process plant and marine works and power supply and associated infrastructure upgrades.”
He said the upgrades meant that during times when the River Murray was under most stress, the State would be able to source the majority of its drinking water from the sea.
Minister for Water Security, Karlene Maywald said the first water from the desalination plant was expected in December 2010.
“The increase to 100 GL production, which will require extra reverse osmosis modules being added to the current plant under construction at Port Stanvac – will be in full production by the end of 2012,” Ms Maywald said.
“However, the plant will progressively increase production until full capacity is reached.”
Ms Maywald said connecting pipelines were already being built with capacity for a 100 GL plant.
She said a number of other water management practices were also important, including stormwater harvesting, efficient water usage and better management of catchments.
21 May, 2009
Grants to resource
resource managers
A new grants scheme introduced as part of the reforms to Natural Resources Management will see community groups across the State funded to carry out local land care, coast care and water care.Minister for the Environment and Conservation, Jay Weatherill said the grants were designed to renew the focus on community-based resource management.
“This new grants scheme is one way we can support communities to increase their involvement in local projects,” Mr Weatherill said.
“Grants will be awarded for anything from fencing watercourses to trialling sustainable farming practices and undertaking pest control works – or other priorities identified by an NRM plan.”
Mr Weatherill called on incorporated community groups to submit projects by Friday 29 May, with the grants scheme to provide funding for the current financial year.
He said he anticipated similar funding opportunities would be made available as part of the 2009-10 State Natural Resource Management program.
“Historically, water resources management, soil protection, and animal and plant control activities were managed separately by about 50 different bodies across the State,” he said.
“There are now eight NRM Boards that are finalising comprehensive plans to guide the management of natural resources in an integrated way at a regional scale.”
He said the changes would help to sustain the State’s natural resources in the face of climate change and extended drought.
Mr Weatherill said several key organisations had agreed that supporting local community groups was central to effective resource management.
“The Conservation Council, SA Farmers Federation and the Local Government Association broadly support integrated and regional approaches to the management of our natural resources,” he said.
“However, they also agree that there is scope to better support groups involved in activities ranging from sustainable farming systems through to urban habitat improvements.”
He said the Government would be exploring opportunities to reinvigorate Landcare, Coastcare and Water Care programs across the State.
Mr Weatherill said he would also take steps to reduce bureaucratic red tape and improve efficiency within the current Natural Resource Management system.
21 May, 2009
Expanded register
hangs up on callers
Proposed expansions to the Do Not Call Register will help protect businesses, fax users and emergency service providers, according to the Federal Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy.Senator Conroy said the scope of the register would be widened to include all telephone and fax numbers, including the numbers used by businesses and emergency service operators.
He said the 2009-10 Budget had provided $4.7 million of funding over 4 years to improve the service, but that around $3.5 million would be recovered from Register access fees paid by the telemarketing and fax marketing industries.
“This is consistent with the (Commonwealth) Government's election commitment that industry will bear the full direct costs of the Register,” Senator Conroy said.
He said at present the Register did not allow telephone numbers used primarily for business, emergency service numbers and fax numbers to be registered.
“Community consultation indicated that these telephone and fax users want protection from unsolicited commercial telemarketing and fax marketing representations,” Senator Conroy said.
“It was particularly concerning to me that these unwanted calls and faxes are wasting business resources and adversely affecting the operation of emergency services.”
He said the changes responded to the productivity and privacy concerns of those who had been excluded from the register.
Senator Conroy said the changes would require legislative amendments and would make allowance for legitimate business-to-business telephone calls.
He said the amendment Bill would not be introduced into Parliament until community and industry consultation.
Senator Conroy said the register was operated by the Australian Communications and Media Authority and that registered telephone account holders could lodge a complaint at www.donotcall.gov.au or by phoning 1300 792 958 if they had received an unsolicited telemarketing call.
21 May, 2009
PS Bill in Committee
Parliamentary debate on the Public Sector Bill 2008 has been deferred while proposed amendments are discussed in Committee.
During its last appearance in the Legislative Council a number of changes were proposed to the Bill, affecting the role of the Commissioner, the proposed Code of Conduct, the ability of Chief Executives to dismiss employees, appeals processes and Freedom of Information and whistleblowers’ protections.
Debate on the Bill is expected to resume in June.
NAIDOC nominations called
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation, Jay Weatherill has called for nominations for the annual NAIDOC Awards, which recognise work that improves the welfare of Aboriginal people.
Mr Weatherill said both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal South Australians could be nominated for the award.
“There are thousands of people throughout the state who work to improve the lives of Aboriginal people that live in metropolitan, regional or remote areas,” Mr Weatherill said.
“While we still have a lot of work to do to improve the quality of life of Aboriginal people all over the State, we also have to acknowledge that a lot of work is being done and real progress is being made.”
Heritage talks begin
The Department for Environment and Heritage and the State Library of South Australia have invited the public to the first in a series of free heritage talks.
To be presented by a Professor Phillip Payton from the University of Exeter, the talk will look at the history of South Australia’s Cornish mining and how Cornish immigrant miners helped shape South Australia’s cultural identity.
It will be held at the Mortlock Chamber of the State Library of South Australia, on Tuesday 19 May 2009, at 7pm.
Bookings are essential and can be made by calling (08) 8207 7215 or emailing marketing@slsa.sa.gov.au
Land information sessions
The Land Services Group of the Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure is conducting information sessions on changes to a number of real estate laws.
Sessions have already been held in the Adelaide CBD, Port Lincoln, Mount Gambier and Port Augusta, with others being held in Clare and Berri this month.
According to Land Services, the information sessions provide a formal presentation that describes the changes to the laws, and allows clients to raise concerns or queries.
The changes have been made to the Statutes Amendment (Real Property) Act 2008, the Real Property Act 1886, Community Titles Act 1996, Strata Titles Act 1988, Bills of Sale Act 1886 and the Stock Mortgages and Wool Liens Act 1924.
Third party up
Compulsory third party insurance premiums are to rise by around 8.5 per cent or around $34 a year for family vehicles.
Treasurer Kevin Foley said CTP premiums for other classes would also increase by varying amounts - but the ceiling was 8.5 pper cent.
Mr Foley said the increases were caused by the impact of the global financial crisis on investments held in the Compulsory Third Party Fund.
“Clearly nobody wants to pay more for their premiums, but the CTP fund has sustained losses as a direct result of the collapse in world financial markets,” he said.
Seafood award presented
The Department for Environment and Heritage has sponsored the “Seafood for the Future” Environment Award for the first time.
The award recognises environmental leadership in South Australia’s seafood industry and this year’s winner was Southern Rocklobster, who introduced an industry-leading Clean Green program to help improve the sustainability of rock lobster fishing.
Another wave plant
A second wave energy pilot plant has been approved for construction off Elliston on the Eyre Peninsula.
Wave Rider Energy Pty Ltd is to build the plant and aims to bring wave energy technology to a point where it is commercially viable.
Premier Mike Rann said wave energy represented a largely untapped sustainable energy resource and was one of the most environmentally benign forms of energy generation currently available.
Mr Rann said the other wave technology plant is to be built along the Limestone Coast near Port MacDonnell, and had been approved by the Government last month.
TV recycling plant opens
Environment and Conservation Minister, Jay Weatherill has launched Australia’s first television and computer monitor glass recycling plant at Gepps Cross.
The plant is expected to recycle glass from more than 300,000 TV and computer screens each year and create glass that can be reused in new TV screens and monitors.
The Government provided $290,000 to CRT Recycling to fund the installation of the glass cutting and cleaning system at the Plant.
Airport targets flies
The State Government has partnered with the Adelaide Airport to prevent the spread of fruit flies.
New signs have been erected throughout the Airport warning travelers to dispose of any fresh fruit and vegetables they may be carrying.
Agriculture Minister, Paul Caica said the signs would be central in educating people before the introduction of tough new penalties in July.
He said these penalties would include on the spot fines for anyone carrying fruit or vegetables into the State.
Research details out
Details of a new medical research institute to be built next to the new Royal Adelaide Hospital have been released.
The institute is to become headquarters for the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (HMRI), and home to 675 researchers working on cures and treatments for diseases such as cancer.
Construction of the HMRI is expected to create around 1,400 direct and 1,500 indirect jobs.
Funding for the facility was announced by the Federal Treasurer, Wayne Swan in his 2009-10 Budget.
Restrictions to stay
Irrigation restrictions along the River Murray are likely to be maintained in the new water year starting 1 July according to the Minister for the River, Karlene Maywald.
Ms Maywald said irrigators were likely to start the new year with an opening allocation of around two per cent and access to at least 50 per cent of eligible carryover.
She said although recent rain had boosted the River flow, it was still below its average levels, forcing restrictions on water use.
14 May, 2009
Hospital survey gives
clean bill of health
SA Health has released two patient safety reports showing that the majority of patients were happy with the level of care in South Australia’s public hospitals. Health Minister John Hill said the ‘Patient Satisfaction Report’ and the ‘Patient Safety Culture Report’ showed that 95.1 per cent of patients felt they received good care in the State’s public hospitals.
“The results of the survey showed SA Health was amongst the best for health service providers in the groups sampled across the world,” Mr Hill said.
“The overall positive results of the surveys are a credit to the wonderful people who provide world-class care within our public health system.”
He said the reports also showed health staff were generally happy in the workplace, with job satisfaction levels rated at 3.9 out of 5.
He said a third report, titled ‘Staff Survey on Patient Safety’, found that healthcare staff felt their patient’s were safe in the public health system.
“Staff’s perception of the safety climate in SA Health was also strong compared to other health organisations, rating 3.82 out of 5, and management and working conditions also ranked in the second highest band,” he said.
“These surveys offer us a really good insight into what patients and staff think of our hospital and health services, and give us an indication of where we can improve.”
The reports can be accessed at: www.health.sa.gov.au
14 May, 2009
Courtroom plan
to go on trial
A pilot program to facilitate early negotiations in legal trials has begun in the Adelaide Magistrates Court. Attorney-General Michael Atkinson said the Criminal Case Conferencing pilot program facilitates a meeting between the defendant and prosecution before the committal of a prosecution to the District Court.
“It not only speeds up the trial process but also enables the possibility of an early resolution between the prosecution and the defendant on a matter,” Mr Atkinson said.
“Even if the conference does not result in the matter resolving, we hope that it will result in clarity on a range of matters that will speed up pre-trial and trial timetables.”
Mr Atkinson said these meetings aimed to provide a forum for constructive discussion presided over by a Magistrate.
He said the process would be available in any major indictable matter and in any minor indictable matter where the accused has elected for a jury trial.
“This is just another forward step by the Government to maximise the efficiency of the court system,” he said.
“The Office of Crime Statistics and Research, (OCSAR) will collect data over the course of the pilot, through evaluation forms and interviews with participating Magistrates, defence counsel and prosecutors.”
He said four conferences would be held each week in the Adelaide Magistrates Court up until 2010, when the program would be evaluated.
He said if the feedback on the program was good, then it would be expanded to other Magistrates courts in metropolitan and regional areas.
Case conferencing would not be mandatory, he said, but a half-hour conference could be requested at the time of the defendant’s plea.
He said the meeting would be conducted without prejudice, and would be transcribed for use during sentencing submissions.
14 May, 2009
Building companies
nail school plans
Seventy-four building companies have been allocated building projects in the first South Australian round of the Federal Government’s Primary Schools for the 21st Century program.Premier Mike Rann said the companies were set to go as soon as the Federal funding was received.
He said South Australian schools were to receive $315 million in the first round of the program which would eventually deliver about $1 billion to South Australian schools.
“This funding will lead to a massive building boom in our schools and we expect the total injection of $1 billion will create about 4500 construction jobs,” Mr Rann said.
“Our children will have new halls, gyms, libraries and classrooms and our building industry will have more ongoing work.”
Mr Rann said building projects in regional South Australia would be allocated to regional businesses to ensure rural areas share in the benefits of the program.
“The day after the Federal Government announced this massive injection in February, we started planning to fast-track building projects,” he said.
“The Office of the Coordinator General, headed by Rod Hook, has been talking to the building industry about how we can deliver these projects within the Federally-set timeframe.”
Mr Rann said 142 schools would receive the funding in the first round of the Primary Schools for the 21st Century program.
He said work on these projects would start before the end of June 2009 and be completed before December 2010.
“A selection of modern, stylish and functional buildings constructed in South Australian schools in recent years was prepared and approved by the Commonwealth,” he said.
“Many schools chose their design from this list, plans are in place and I’m told a team of experts is visiting each of the schools to check that the site is suitable.”
14 May, 2009
Scholarship plan is
one for the books
Aspiring language teachers are to benefit under a new scholarship program recently launched by the Government. Minister for Education, Jane Lomax-Smith said the Smolicz Award Languages Teaching Scholarship would provide 15 five-year scholarships annually, offering financial support for learning languages or for studying towards teaching degrees.
“Learning a language is becoming a necessary part of living and working in today’s global society and we are giving our children a head start by teaching languages in schools,” Dr Lomax-Smith said.
“While we have many fabulous languages teachers in our schools, we hope this scholarship program will help to increase the number of trained languages teachers available for work.”
Dr Lomax-Smith said the program is designed to complement funding provided for the State’s ethnic schools.
She said ethnic schools made a valuable contribution to language and cultural education, offering 50 languages to around 7,000 students.
“More than 30 years ago, South Australia’s Labor Government was the first in Australia to fund ethnic schools and the network has grown significantly since that time,” she said.
“I would be delighted if ethnic school teachers applied for this scholarship to gain teaching qualifications so their skills can be used more broadly in mainstream schools.”
She said the scholarship honoured Professor George Smolicz, who was a leader of language and multicultural education.
She encouraged teachers and interested individuals, with or without language skills, to apply.
She said the University of Adelaide would administer the scholarship program, with support from the Minister’s Multicultural Education Committee.
Application forms are available from 16 May 2009 at www.mec.sa.edu.au
14 May, 2009
Fire heroes feted at
thankyou ceremony
South Australia’s fire and police services have been honoured for their dedication and service during the Victorian bushfires.Premier Mike Rann said the ceremony, which was held at Adelaide Oval, paid tribute to the volunteers who gave their time and skills to try to head off one of the greatest tragedies Australia has ever seen.
“I’m so proud of those who volunteered in such traumatic circumstances,” Mr Rann said.
“What they heard, saw and felt will never be forgotten.
“We’re forever indebted to them for their willingness to reach out to our fellow Australians in a crisis.”
Minister for Emergency Services, Michael Wright said firefighters and police had put their own safety at risk in the February bushfires.
“Today’s event gives us the chance to express our enormous gratitude to the 800 fire-fighters and support staff from the CFS and MFS who provided much-needed assistance to their Victorian counterparts as they struggled to battle blazes that razed entire townships,” Mr Wright said.
“We are fortunate to have such selfless individuals in our emergency services and they deserve the greatest praise for their contribution.”
Other Government agencies that contributed to the bushfire effort included South Australia Police, the Department of Environment and Heritage, Forestry SA, the State Emergency Service, Primary Industries and Resources SA, Forensic Sciences SA and the Department of Families and Communities.
Minister for Volunteers, Tom Koutsantonis said community groups and individual South Australians also volunteered their time and effort to help Victorians affected by the fires.
“The Port Lincoln Rotary Club donated 50 bales of hay to affected rural areas and established a team to replace damaged fencing; the Lyndoch Bakery donated the proceeds from their sweet muffins to the Uniting Church Appeal and Gawler man Geoff Whatley organised a group of elderly pensioners to pack and deliver 120 boxes of donated goods to bushfire victims,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
“These are just a few grass roots examples of South Australians doing whatever they could to help out. All these volunteers deserve our thanks too.”
He said, South Australians had also donated millions of dollars to the Red Cross Victorian Bushfire Appeal and other local fundraisers.
The State Government donated an extra $1 million to the Appeal and provided significant manpower to help combat the fires.
Mr Rann said South Australia also shared information with other States and Territories about its arsonist monitoring program, Operation Nomad.
14 May, 2009
New housing plan is
rental as anything
The State and Federal Governments have opened the first houses constructed under the National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS) in South Australia. Federal Minister for Housing, Tanya Plibersek said the 12 one-bedroom flats constructed in Hampstead Gardens, would provide the community with low-rent housing.
“These 12 one-bedroom units in the Hampstead Gardens are providing affordable accommodation to older Australians on low incomes, many of whom are pensioners,” Ms Plibersek said.
“Some of the tenants are saving between $70 and $140 per week on their previous rent, which can make a huge difference to their quality of life.”
Ms Plibersek said under the Scheme, the 12 units would receive $6,000 per year from the Federal Government and $2,000 from the South Australian Government.
State Minister for Housing, Jennifer Rankine said the Scheme would see a further 422 homes approved across the South Australia in the first round of the NRAS.
Ms Rankine said the South Australian Government had provided $2.8 million to help build 21 of the 33 rental homes.
“These additional 33 dwellings will provide affordable rental accommodation for older Australians and families in South Australia,” she said.
“This funding is also supporting jobs for South Australians in the construction industry during these challenging economic times.”
She said the Scheme was part of the a comprehensive housing package from the Federal Government, which sought to boost rental stocks, assist first home buyers, and lower housing infrastructure costs for some entry level housing.
Ms Plibersek said the NRAS would help to build up to 50,000 new rental properties across Australia by 2012, which will then be rented out at 20 per cent below market rate.
“The National Rental Affordability Scheme is a great example of what can happen when Governments across the country work together to tackle affordability in the rental market,” Ms Plibersek said.
“The National Rental Affordability Scheme also provides work for builders and tradies in these tough global economic times due to the fact that each dwelling needs to be new construction in order to qualify.”
Ms Plibersek said housing and construction is a major employer in the Australian economy and had been targeted by numerous stimulus measures by the Federal Government, including the first home buyers grant and investments in social housing.
14 May, 2009
Bureau does job on
working from home
The Australian Bureau of Statistics has discovered almost a quarter of all Australians in work did some, or all of their work at home.The Bureau’s research found 24 per cent of Australians employed in November 2008 worked at home, with 34 per cent saying they did so to ‘catch up on work’.
The ABS study found that another popular reason for working from home (37 per cent) was the lure of having an office at home with no overheads or rent, closely followed by 'operating a farm' (21 per cent) and 'flexible working arrangements' (15 per cent).
The report, Locations of Work, Australia, November 2008, found 62 per cent of men who worked at home were managers and professionals, while 18 per cent were technicians and trade workers.
Thirty-nine per cent of women who worked from home were professionals and 23 per cent were clerical or administrative workers.
Around one in 12 employed people worked more hours at home than at any other location, either in their main or second job.
The ABS reported that people who were owner-managers in their main job were more likely to use their own home as their main location for work than employees and that women owner-managers worked from home more often than men.
The Bureau said of the 10.1 million people at work in November 2008, 41 per cent worked at two or more locations in their main job.
More details about the study are available from the Bureau’s website, www.abs.gov.au
14 May, 2009
Free transport plan
goes extra mile
The provision of free public transport to South Australia’s seniors has been extended to allow for travel in the interpeak period.Transport Minister, Patrick Conlon said free public transport would now be available to seniors from 9.01am to 3pm from 1 July, extending the previous time of 9.30am to 3pm.
“The original time of 9.30 was put in place to allow the peak hour rush to clear however the three bus operators believe they can better manage the change-over from 9.01,” Mr Conlon said.
“We’ve listened to their feedback as well as some suggestions from the community and made the change to avoid any confusion.”
Mr Conlon said the change would apply to trains, trams and buses on the Adelaide metropolitan system every day of the year.
He said the scheme had received very positive feedback during its early stages.
“This scheme has been welcomed by many people in the community and will help the elderly during the current period of global economic downturn,” he said.
“Despite the current financial times, we want the elderly to continue to get out and about – this is a great incentive to help them do that.”
He said the program would help the Government reach its target of significantly increasing public transport by 2018 and would help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
He said the 50 per cent peak-hour ticket concession available to State Seniors Card holders and other concessions groups would be maintained.
14 May, 2009
Volunteers paid off
with infrastructure
The State’s largest ever infrastructure program for volunteers has been launched in the Adelaide Hills region. The Minister for Volunteers, Tom Koutsantonis said the Hills Volunteering service would help to support the vital contribution of volunteers in the State.
“About 600, 000 South Australians volunteer and many of them live and work in the Adelaide Hills and Mount Barker,” Mr Koutsantonis said
“ Hills Volunteering is about giving volunteers the tools to contribute in a way that suits them and their community.”
He said at last count, volunteerism in South Australia accounted for $5 billion a year or 11.5 per cent of the State’s Gross Domestic Product.
“But the contribution that volunteers make is priceless to our environment, culture, sport, welfare, health and education.”
Mr Koutsantonis said the project would operate from the Hut Community Centre in Aldgate and the Mount Barker Library Complex
He said it aimed to provide a central hub for volunteer promotion, information, resources and support in the Adelaide Hills community.
The Government has provided eight Councils across the State with grants of $15,000 to establish volunteer resource centres and Mr Koutsantonis said more funding was on the way.
“In coming months, volunteer resource centres will spring up across the State at Streaky Bay, Mount Remarkable, Renmark and the Copper Coast,” he said.
“These services will enable volunteers to make the most of their time and skills and help community groups reap the great rewards that volunteers can offer.”
He said the Hills Volunteering was a joint project of the Adelaide Hills Council and the District Council of Mount Barker and would be one of the first volunteer resource centres to open.
14 May, 2009
Intelligence Unit
in smart moves
The Correctional Services Intelligence and Investigations Unit has been praised by the Minister for Correctional Services after catching a prisoner attempting to bring illicit drugs into Yatala Labour Prison. Minister for Correctional Services, Tom Koutsantonis said intelligence gathered by the Unit helped stop the prisoner distributing what was thought to be amphetamines.
“This is yet another example of the great work that Correctional Services staff are doing each day to keep our prisons safe and stop prisoners from continuing their crimes from the inside,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
“Prison guards and other workers in our correctional system have very difficult jobs. But their diligence and commitment is helping to create a safer environment within prison and on the outside.”
He said the Correctional Services Intelligence and Investigations Unit had been highly effective in identifying and stopping prison-based crime.
“The fight continues to make South Australia’s jails free of drugs, weapons and other contraband and to ensure prisoners and the public are safe,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
“Going by recent results – we’re landing some hard punches in that fight.”
He said that in March, officers at Mobilong Prison conducted the largest prison security operation in a decade, strip searching 319 prisoners and raiding their cells.
He said six prisoners, two with known links to outlawed motorcycle gangs, were identified as being suspected of leading drug trafficking within the prison, organising drug trade outside prison walls and using ‘stand-over’ tactics against other prisoners.
Mr Koutsantonis said this most recent prisoner to be discovered breaking the rules was on remand for serious violence-related offences, and testing would be carried out to confirm he was carrying amphetamines.
“The prisoner will be charged with introducing a prohibited substance into a prison and investigations are continuing,” he said.
14 May, 2009
Cross border program
is cutting edge
Rural Solutions South Australia has combined with a Western Australian organisation to improve the ecological conditions, productivity and profitability in the Southern Rangelands.The Improving Rangeland Sustainability project, which was funded by the Federal Government, aimed to improve the sustainability of rangeland pastoral enterprises.
Rural Solutions said the project was managed by Western Australian Rangelands Natural Resource Management and was delivered in both South and Western Australia.
The major focus of the project, according to Rural Solutions, was the engagement of a wide range of interest groups, including pastoralists, stock and station agents, pastoral consultants and natural resource management boards.
By engaging with these groups, Rural Solutions said it gained information on how to achieve sustainable grazing practices without compromising the livelihoods of farmers.
Rural Solutions said the South Australian component of the project focused largely on managing water and vegetation.
It said that water management posed a major limitation to achieving sustainable grazing practices, whilst vegetation was found to be important for both grazing and maintaining rangeland biodiversity.
The impact of foxes on livestock and biodiversity was researched and several fox control methods were trialled as part of the sustainability project.
14 May, 2009
Consumer paper out
for consumption
A discussion paper on the future direction of consumer research and advocacy has been released by the Federal Consumer Affairs Minister, Chris Bowen.The paper, entitled Consumer Voices, Sustaining advocacy and research in Australia’s new consumer policy framework, is part of a national program aimed at fostering more effective consumer advocacy and research.
Mr Bowen said the paper was prompted by a 2008 Productivity Commission recommendation that the Commonwealth, in consultation with the Ministerial Council on Consumer Affairs, move to provide additional funding for the purpose.
“The Australian Government, with the States and Territories, is undertaking the most far-reaching changes to Australia’s consumer laws for a generation,” Mr Bowen said.
He said new consumer law reforms, including a national Unfair Contract Terms provision would soon be introduced to Parliament.
“The Council of Australian Governments has wasted no time in developing and beginning to implement a single, national consumer law,” he said.
“Effective consumer advocacy and research highlights the issues that affect and concern consumers and assists in ensuring that Governments can make sound and timely consumer policy interventions.”
Mr Bowen encouraged interested parties from the consumer movement and industry to make a submission by 17 July 2009.
14 May, 2009
New medical laws
are good medicine
State Cabinet has proposed strong new laws for the management of medical emergencies. Health Minister John Hill said the proposals would see stronger powers for senior health officials to order medical assessments and mandatory isolation in case of a State emergency.
“We have powers under our existing legislation, but we (have reviewed) the laws to look for areas of potential improvement,” Mr Hill said.
“These emergency management powers would be used only in the event of a serious health emergency and could help to contain the outbreak of a disease that might otherwise pose a serious threat to the wider population.”
Mr Hill said the proposed changes needed to be approved by Executive Council and then by Parliament.
He said the changes were designed to strengthen the Emergency Management Act and to prepare the state for a possible Swine Flu pandemic.
“At the moment, seasonal flu is still a risk to the health of older and more vulnerable people, so we’re encouraging seniors and people with chronic health conditions to get a vaccine shot to protect themselves and those around them from infection,” he said.
“Everyone else needs to remember that simple hand-washing and hygiene remain more important than ever – wash, wipe, cover – don’t infect another.”
Mr Hill said the proposals were already being worked on by the Department of Health over the past 12 months.
He said the current outbreak of human swine influenza had spread across 18 countries and South Australian health authorities were investigating suspected cases here.
The World Health Organisation raised the level of influenza pandemic alert to Phase 5, meaning there has been human-to-human spread of the virus in at least two countries.
Mr Hill said countries have been advised to move to a state of preparedness.
14 May, 2009
Employment figures
are a job lot
South Australia has recorded its highest ever number of employed people in trend terms for April.Employment Minister, Michael O’Brien said 792,700 people were employed in April, despite the impacts of the financial crisis.
“Today’s figures show that the headline unemployment rate in SA dropped by 0.4 percentage points during April to reach 5.5 per cent,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The State Government is doing everything in its power to protect and create jobs to prepare for future growth when the economic climate improves.”
He said the number of full-time workers also rose by 800 in April, to reach 541,400 and although the youth unemployment rate had gone up by 3.3 percentage points to 17.2 per cent, it was still significantly lower than in April last year.
“We continue to maintain our commitment to skills and employment programs to protect those at greatest risk in the labour market,” Mr O’Brien said, “particularly young people.”
“SA will benefit from our share of the $100 million federal Youth Compact which will provide an education and training guarantee to anyone under the age of 25.”
He said the Government had been taking measures to ensure it was well placed to outperform other states when global growth returns.
“These are very difficult times, but we are vigorously pursuing strategies to diversify our economy by encouraging mining and Defence activities, as well as developing our education exports industry,” he said.
“This is a critical time to invest in infrastructure and the State Government’s $9.2 billion capital works program will create thousands of new jobs.”
He said the Participation Rate had risen by 0.1 percentage points to reach 63.6 per cent showing confidence in employment prospects despite the uncertain economic climate.
14 May, 2009
SafeWork making
unsafe work safer
SafeWork South Australia’s Industry Improvement Program has reduced the number of work-related injuries occurring in unsafe businesses. Industrial Relations Minister, Paul Caica said the program had achieved a 16.2 per cent reduction in all claims and a 21.2 per cent reduction in income maintenance claims from 2006 to 2008.
“This program targets industry sectors and employers found to have contributed disproportionately to workplace injury and illness claims in South Australia,” Mr Caica said.
“The results show a very encouraging improvement within the first group targeted.”
Mr Caica said this first target group consisted of 169 medium-sized worksites including residential care facilities, supermarkets, factories and construction sites.
He said the Program, which began in April 2007, used flexible strategies to provide advice, education and enforcement actions for the management of workplace health and safety.
“SafeWork SA also received highly positive feedback from the employers who participated in the medium-sized employer strategy,” he said.
“In a telephone survey of employers, 99 per cent of respondents reported they were satisfied with the standard of service provided and 93 per cent made a change to their policies and procedures as a result of being involved in the strategy.”
He said the initial results of the program point towards an improved and more effective workplace safety culture in South Australia.
He urged all employers contacted by SafeWork to participate in the initiative and to ensure effective management of occupation health, safety and welfare in the workplace.
14 May, 2009
Tourism awards
the way to go
The South Australian Tourism Industry Council (SATIC) has become the organising body for the South Australian Tourism Awards, which were recently launched for 2009.Tourism Minister, Jane Lomax-Smith said the awards attract hundreds of entries from the best tourism operators in the State.
“This is a particularly significant year in the history of the Awards with the new South Australian Tourism Industry Council (SATIC) taking over the reigns as the organising body for the awards,” Dr Lomax-Smith said.
“That means the industry, through this new industry-led body, will own the Awards process.”
Dr Lomax-Smith said the awards were open to all South Australian tourism operators in 27 different categories, including accommodation, tour and transport operators, wineries, restaurants, events, tourism marketing and attractions.
She said the winners of the awards would go on to represent South Australia at a national level.
“The Awards are the pinnacle of excellence within the tourism industry, and they also reward innovation and foster best business practices by setting a benchmark for all tourism operators to aspire to,” she said.
“The South Australian Tourism Awards also provide a sound platform for the development of the industry and lead tourism businesses to a sustainable future.”
She said the Awards process was submission-based and included a site visit by an official judge.
She said entrants would also be required to respond to a number of questions that cover all areas of their business operation.
“I encourage all tourism operators to consider entering the 2009 South Australian Tourism Awards to showcase their success and build on the professionalism of their businesses,” she said.
“The Awards process presents the chance to review goals, foster better business practices and record achievements.”
Nominations close on 10 July and submissions are due by 17 August. The Awards Presentation and Gala Dinner will be held on Saturday 7 November at the Adelaide Convention Centre.
14 May, 2009
Sex education for
same-sex couples
A community education campaign is to be conducted to inform same sex-couples of their rights under recent changes to the law. Announced jointly by the Commonwealth Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, and its Minister for Families, Housing and Community Services, Jenny Macklin, the campaign is to complement an existing national information program being conducted by Centrelink.
Mr McClelland and Ms Macklin said under new Federal laws, same-sex couples and their children had the same entitlements and obligations as opposite-sex de facto couples.
“We are working hard to ensure all same-sex couples have access to these entitlements and understand their obligations,” they said.
The Ministers said the Commonwealth would contribute $450,000 to the campaign.
They said a website will be launched to provide an overview of the reforms; $100,000 will be given to the National Welfare Rights Network to help Centrelink clients with legal advice; and $350,000 will be allocated to community education and advertising programs.
The initiative followed amendments to 84 Commonwealth laws to eliminate discrimination against same-sex couples and their children.
The reforms cover areas such as social security, taxation, Medicare, workers’ compensation, educational assistance, superannuation, veterans’ affairs family law and child support.
Mr McClelland and Ms Macklin said Centrelink was implementing the reforms in a sensitive way, and additional training had been offered to help staff assist people in same-sex relationships.
Further information on the reforms can be found at www.ag.gov.au
14 May, 2009
Speaker warning
The Office of Consumer and Business Affairs (OCBA) says two men selling audio speakers in Adelaide are tricking people into paying exorbitant prices.
According to OCBA , the men are selling the speakers out of a white 2008 HiAce van with Queensland registration plates.
OCBA has urged people to report any sightings of the men on 8204 9777.
Something on at festival centre
The Adelaide Festival Centre has released this year’s Something On Saturday’s program.
The Something On Saturday’s theatrical program runs from the 16 May to 5 September and entertains more than 15,000 people every year.
The 2009 program includes storytelling, magic, ballet, acrobatics, puppetry, a rap musical and special programs for young children.
Tickets are already sold out for a number of performances, and patrons are being encouraged to book in early to secure their tickets.
ACT to be more efficient
The Government of the Australian Capital Territory is to introduce an efficiency dividend from the start of next financial year.
Announced as part of the Government’s medium-term Budget strategy, the dividend plan sparked concern among unions and community organisations who fear it will lead to job cuts.
It is to be levied at 1 per cent for larger Agencies and 0.5 per cent small.
Art for Whyalla
A new art gallery is to be established in Whyalla’s TAFE SA campus.
In June 2008 the State government provided the City of Whyalla with $400,000 for the new gallery which will be a prominent cultural asset for the city, alongside the existing Middlebank Theatre, Whyalla Cinema and the City of Whyalla Art Prize.
Minister Assisting the Premier in the Arts, John Hill, said that Whyalla had built up an impressive collection of artworks, and the gallery would enhance the city’s reputation as a thriving regional arts and cultural community.
Lower Lakes trial
Trials using limestone to prevent acidification in the Lower Lakes has begun in the Currency Creek and Finniss River area.
The Trials are part of the Government’s strategy for managing the Lower Lakes through the drought by neutralising soils and removing acid from the water.
Minister for the River Murray, Karlene Maywald said more than 2,000 hectares of acid sulfate soils in the Lower Lakes had acidified at the start of 2009, as falling water levels exposed them to air.
“Acidification in the Lakes is happening at a scale that is unprecedented anywhere in Australia, and possibly the world, so determining the right way to minimise its impacts is vital,” Ms Maywald said.
Students take tests
Around 75,000 South Australian students have endured three days of literacy and numeracy testing.
In a nationwide program, students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 have had their abilities tested in reading, writing, spelling, grammar, punctuation and numeracy.
Education Minister, Jane Lomax-Smith said previous State-based testing had shown large improvements in children’s literacy and numeracy skills over the past decade.
Tax Board call
Applicants are being sought for appointment to the new Tax Practitioners Board.
The Board will replace the existing State-based Tax Agents’ Boards and will be responsible for regulating the provision of tax agent services.
Applications close on 22 May, with further information available from www.apsjobs.gov.au or by emailing taxagentservices@treasury.gov.au
Watchdog to ‘do’ hairdressers
The Federal Workplace Ombudsman is targeting hairdressers and beauty salons for random audits.
According to the Executive Director of the Workplace Ombudsman’s Office, Michael Campbell inspectors will scrutinise the books of hundreds of employers throughout Australia to ensure they are complying with workplace laws.
“The hair and beauty industry is one where we receive a lot of complaints,” Mr Campbell said.
“And many of these workers, such as young people and trainees, are vulnerable, so it’s important we make sure they are being treated fairly.”
7 May, 2009
Expanded dam stand
fans grand plans
The public consultation period for comment on the Environmental Impact Statement for the Olympic Dam Expansion has been increased to 14 weeks.The Minister for Urban Development and Planning, Paul Holloway said the EIS was the largest in South Australian history and due to its scope and importance, the public needed more time to consider its thousands of pages of documents.
Mr Holloway said the extended process gave members of the public, industry and government agencies a chance to weigh up the developer’s response to the many environmental, economic and social challenges posed by the proposed Olympic Dam expansion
“The Olympic Dam Expansion EIS prepared by BHP Billiton describes the project and why it is needed as well as the potential environmental, social, cultural and economic issues that might arise during the project’s construction, operation and eventual closure,” Mr Holloway said
He said the Department of Planning and Local Government and BHP Billiton would host a series of four public meetings across South Australia at the Roxby Downs Leisure Centre, Port Augusta Institute Building, Whyalla Westlands and the Adelaide Convention Centre.
He said public and Government agency submissions on BHP’s EIS could also be lodged with the DPLG until 5pm, on 7 August 2009.
“These submissions will be made available to the South Australian, NT and Federal Governments and forwarded to BHP Billiton,” he said.
“They can then be incorporated by BHP Billiton into a response document, or supplementary EIS, which is required as part of the major development assessment process.”
He said once BHP had completed this response document, the South Australian, Commonwealth and Northern Territory Governments would then develop their own assessment reports, and could either approve, reject, or enforce conditions for the proposed expansion.
Mr Holloway said the State Government was also proposing a new development plan for the town of Roxby Downs, which is expected to almost double in population as a result of BHP’s operations.
“The expansion of the mine could swell the township’s population from 4,500 to more than 10,000 residents,” he said.
“To meet the growing demand for residential accommodation and associated facilities to support such a strong surge in population, the Government has prepared an extensive Development Plan Amendment for the township and surrounding area.”
He said that although the Olympic Dam Expansion was taking place across three jurisdictions, the South Australian Government would be coordinating public submissions to the EIS.
7 May, 2009
Expanded dam stand
fans grand plans
The public consultation period for comment on the Environmental Impact Statement for the Olympic Dam Expansion has been increased to 14 weeks.The Minister for Urban Development and Planning, Paul Holloway said the EIS was the largest in South Australian history and due to its scope and importance, the public needed more time to consider its thousands of pages of documents.
Mr Holloway said the extended process gave members of the public, industry and government agencies a chance to weigh up the developer’s response to the many environmental, economic and social challenges posed by the proposed Olympic Dam expansion
“The Olympic Dam Expansion EIS prepared by BHP Billiton describes the project and why it is needed as well as the potential environmental, social, cultural and economic issues that might arise during the project’s construction, operation and eventual closure,” Mr Holloway said
He said the Department of Planning and Local Government and BHP Billiton would host a series of four public meetings across South Australia at the Roxby Downs Leisure Centre, Port Augusta Institute Building, Whyalla Westlands and the Adelaide Convention Centre.
He said public and Government agency submissions on BHP’s EIS could also be lodged with the DPLG until 5pm, on 7 August 2009.
“These submissions will be made available to the South Australian, NT and Federal Governments and forwarded to BHP Billiton,” he said.
“They can then be incorporated by BHP Billiton into a response document, or supplementary EIS, which is required as part of the major development assessment process.”
He said once BHP had completed this response document, the South Australian, Commonwealth and Northern Territory Governments would then develop their own assessment reports, and could either approve, reject, or enforce conditions for the proposed expansion.
Mr Holloway said the State Government was also proposing a new development plan for the town of Roxby Downs, which is expected to almost double in population as a result of BHP’s operations.
“The expansion of the mine could swell the township’s population from 4,500 to more than 10,000 residents,” he said.
“To meet the growing demand for residential accommodation and associated facilities to support such a strong surge in population, the Government has prepared an extensive Development Plan Amendment for the township and surrounding area.”
He said that although the Olympic Dam Expansion was taking place across three jurisdictions, the South Australian Government would be coordinating public submissions to the EIS.
7 May, 2009
Firefighters’ courage
ignites warm words
The State’s Country and Metropolitan Fire Service members who helped keep the community safe during the fire danger season have been thanked for their courage and commitment by the Minister for Emergency Services, Michael Wright.Mr Wright said during the 2008-09 fire season, the Country Fire Service had responded to 6,393 incidents and had provided 4,493 support responses.
“The State Government extends its sincerest gratitude to all the men and women who responded to over 10,000 emergency call outs, a job well done,” Mr Wright said.
“The contribution made by Country and Metropolitan Fire Service members to the State and to our community is greatly appreciated,” he said.
Mr Wright said the South Australian Police had also played a vital role throughout the fire danger season by arresting or reporting 166 people for fire related offences.
He said common offences included deliberately lighting fires and lighting or maintaining fires during the fire season.
“87 others have also been issued with fines for breaches of the Fire and Emergency Services Act,” he said.
“All those involved in protecting our state during the fire danger season should be commended for their stellar efforts.”
Mr Wright said throughout the fire season, the Country Fire Service (CFS) had been greatly assisted by support aircraft.
He said aircraft were used 130 times over the fire season, and proved to be an effective tool in supporting fire fighters on the ground.
Although the fire season had ended, Mr Wright said, people should still use fire with caution.
“Even though the weather has started to cool down, there’s still the potential for fires to cause serious damage to life, property and the environment,” he said.
“Even beyond the fire danger season, there may be days when the weather could become conducive to increasing the fire hazard, so South Australians should remember to remain vigilant.”
7 May, 2009
Holiday at home
is just the ticket
South Australians are to be urged to ‘holiday at home’ in the coming months with the South Australian Tourism Commission launching a major marketing push to promote local accommodation providers.Tourism Minister Jane Lomax-Smith said the $4.5 million advertising blitz was the State’s largest ever local and interstate marketing campaign.
“Given the current economic climate, all the research is showing that this is the time when Australians will be choosing to holiday at home, rather than overseas,” Dr Lomax-Smith said.
“The South Australian Government is investing in clever campaigns to make sure as many as possible of those domestic holidays Australians are taking are in South Australia.”
Dr Lomax-Smith said the campaign recognises the importance of South Australian’s who holiday in their own backyard as a vital source of tourism revenue.
She said the campaign offers South Australians who book selected holidays from the South Australian Shorts book a free nights’ accommodation.
“International visitors rave about South Australia’s unique wildlife experiences, incredible wine regions and easily accessible coast and outback,” she said.
“However, a surprising number of South Australians I talk to have never experienced a Kangaroo Island holiday, nor spent a weekend wine tasting and taking it easy in a cosy B ‘n’ B in the Barossa or Clare Valley.”
“With the free night’s accommodation on offer during the Shorts Winter Sale campaign, now is the time for South Australians to discover their own State – they’ll be surprised and delighted at what they find in their own backyard.”
Dr Lomax-Smith said the campaign began with a catalogue of holiday offers in the Sunday Mail, and would continue to advertise across digital, print, mail and email.
She said tourism was currently worth $4.3 billion a year in South Australia, with the Government aiming to increase this by $2 billion by 2014.
7 May, 2009
ID scheme looks
at gaining access
A safer and more secure ID authentication system has been developed by Centrelink and is being offered to the rest of the PS and private industry free of charge.According to the Minister for Human Services, Senator Joe Ludwig, Centrelink’s Protocol for Lightweight Authentication of Identity system (PLAID) is used with ID cards for staff access to secure buildings and computer systems and allows fast, flexible, private and secure authentication as well as inter-operability within and between users.
Senator Ludwig said until the development of PLAID, existing technology in the ID field had been at risk due to hackers.
“PLAID will prevent the cracking of authentication systems and foil the cloning of smartcards and other system-access devices,” he said.
“With a vast database including millions of Australians, Centrelink takes a very serious approach to customer privacy and employee access.”
Senator Ludwig said Centrelink was making PLAID freely available on the internet for Government Agencies and private corporations concerned about staff security.
“The idea is that commercial operators will build on PLAID by developing security software and hardware for other organisations to purchase and use,” he said.
“Centrelink will save money buying an ID authentication system, rather than building and maintaining a system in-house.”
Senator Ludwig said Centrelink had around 26,000 employees and administered over $70 billion in payments and services to millions of customers annually.
“That’s why it is so important Centrelink has a reliable and strong IT system in place,” he said.
7 May, 2009
Consumer crackdown
is motherhood issue
The Office of Consumer and Business Affairs has been scrutinising ‘two-price advertising’ in the lead-up to Mother’s day to ensure retailers are providing genuine price reductions. Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gail Gago said often retailers compared the sale price with a distorted regular price, to mislead consumers and inflate apparent savings.
“OCBA is focusing on items that are heavily promoted in the lead up to Mother’s Day such as jewellery, perfume, accessories and electrical appliances,” Ms Gago said.
“If a retailer claims that an item has been reduced by $100 or that the price has been reduced by 40 per cent then that should genuinely be the case.”
Ms Gago said the OCBA had been collecting brochures from retailers using ‘two-price advertising’ and scrutinising their claims.
She said stores advertising significantly reduced sale prices were being asked to show proof that their items had been previously offered at the ‘regular’ price.
“Shoppers looking for the perfect gift for Mother’s Day may be tempted to buy items because the price has been significantly reduced,” she said.
“Retailers that compare the sale price with the previous price are being scrutinised to make sure that the savings are genuine.”
Ms Gago said traders who mislead consumers about price savings risked a maximum penalty of $100,000 for a corporation and $20,000 for an individual under the Fair Trading Act 1987.
She said consumers should shop around to compare prices and not just be tempted by the offer of a great deal.
“Don’t just look at the amount you are saving - you need to compare the actual selling price of items to find out which really is the better deal,” she said.
Consumers who have concerns about advertising claims made by traders should contact OCBA on 8204 9777, or 131 882 for regional callers at the local call cost.
7 May, 2009
Science, maths have
numbers at school
A major campaign that promotes careers in Defence and the resource sector has been launched by the State Government.Deputy Premier, Kevin Foley said the campaign aims to encourage year 9 and 10 students to take up maths and science to help them move into careers in two of the State’s major growth industries.
“We need more students thinking about careers in science, engineering and technology, as well as the mechanical, electrical and construction trades,” Mr Foley said.
“Notwithstanding the current economic slowdown, the State’s future prosperity will continue to be driven by defence, resources and energy, ICT/electronics, advanced manufacturing and construction.”
Mr Foley said the campaign, which uses the slogan ‘There’s More To It Than You Think’, would help to ensure a sufficient supply of engineers, scientists, technicians and tradespeople to support these industries.
He said that Years 9 and 10 are often periods marked by disenchantment with maths and science, which are both vital for working in these roles.
“Choosing the right subjects in the final years of high school is a vital prerequisite to working in these dynamic sectors,” he said.
“We need parents and career influencers, namely teachers and counsellors, to work with us in encouraging the study of maths and science and promoting science-related careers.”
Mr Foley said the current economic downturn was leading more young people to take up tertiary and further education.
He said the campaign would help to build on this trend, by promoting 25 young people who would talk about how their interest in maths and science helped them gain careers in the State’s key industries.
7 May, 2009
New rules floated
for waterfront land
The sale or disposal of Government land adjacent to waterways will soon be subject to the same controls as those relating to the River Torrens.The Minister for Urban Development and Planning, Paul Holloway has proposed the new rules which he said would protect Adelaide’s major waterways.
“Plans to increase the density of residential development within the urban growth boundary has made it important that we ensure the integrity of Adelaide’s key waterways,” Mr Holloway said.
“The extension of the protection provided to the River Torrens Linear Park to Adelaide’s other significant waterways will avoid a similar controversy arising as urban development begins to encroach on these creeks and rivers.”
Mr Holloway said the River Torrens was the site of a controversial release of riverfront land by the previous Government, prompting the development of the River Torrens Linear Park Act.
He said this Act would now be extended to Government land around the Gawler River, Little Para River, Dry Creek, Sturt River, Field River, Christie Creek, Onkaparinga River, Pedlar Creek and Port Willunga Creek.
“It is important for current and future generations of South Australians that the open space adjacent to Adelaide’s significant waterways are protected from development,” he said.
Mr Holloway said the Act would allow for the adding of other waterways in the future.
He said the Government had also provided funding to improve public access and safety in areas around South Australia’s waterways.
“The State Government has continued to support the improvement of the River Torrens Linear Park through land purchases at Underdale and Felixstow as well as open space grants that have funded millions of dollars of local council projects to improve public access and safety along the waterway,” he said.
“In the latest round of open space grants, $1.1 million was provided for work on the River Torrens Linear Park, $800,000 for the $15 million upgrade of Christies Creek, $192,500 to purchase land along the Sturt River and $10,000 for a parcel of land to add to the Little Para River Linear Park.”
7 May, 2009
National law puts
heat on arsonists
Attorneys-General from around the nation have agreed to strengthen the penalties for bushfire and arson offences in every State and Territory.Commonwealth Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, presented the proposals for new offences which carry penalties of up to 25 years for bushfire arson causing death or serious harm.
State and Territory Attorneys-General have commissioned a report for the next meeting of their Standing Committee of Attorneys-General dealing with incorporating the offences into the Model Criminal Code.
Mr McClelland said jurisdictions which had not yet done so would also examine implementing existing model bushfire and arson offences that included up to 15 years imprisonment.
“Given the incredible damage to property and loss of life that can be caused by bushfires, it is critical that offences across Australia are consistent and effective, and those sentences reflect the seriousness of this crime,” he said.
Mr McClelland said while each State and Territory had its own laws covering arson and bushfires, there was considerable variation in the scope of the offences and penalties that applied.
“I am hopeful that the agreed program of work will make it easier to prosecute a person who lights a fire that results in death or causes serious harm to a person,” he said.
“People who deliberately light fires must face tougher penalties, particularly when those fires result in loss of life as occurred recently in the Victorian bushfires.”
The Attorneys-General also agreed to consider enabling Courts to order a person convicted of arson to pay compensation for the damage caused by their offence.
7 May, 2009
Transport upgrade
on the right track
Plans to revitalise the State’s public transport system have led the Government to advertise for expressions of interest among companies for providing the best trains to run on Adelaide’s electrified rail network.Transport Minister, Patrick Conlon said the Government was seeking manufacturers and suppliers to provide 50 new electric trains as part of its multi-billion dollar project for the public transport system.
“We’ve made a $2 billion commitment to reinvigorate public transport and a key part of that is upgrading our railway lines and purchasing new rolling stock,” he said.
“It’s been over ten years since new heavy vehicle rolling stock was supplied to Adelaide’s rail network and during that time there has been considerable advances made in rolling stock design.”
Mr Conlon said the call for EOIs marked the start of the tender process would help the Government test the market and see what suppliers had to offer.
He said the first electric trains were expected to arrive in 2012, but a process to refurbish existing rail cars was already underway.
“We’ve already begun the process of a $37 million refurbishment of our existing rail cars which will eventually be converted to electric and we have now completed replacing windows in this fleet,” he said.
Mr Conlon said the Government’s investment in rail would see the electrification of the Noarlunga, Gawler and Outer Harbor lines.
He said an upgrade of the Belair line was already underway and the Noarlunga line was to be upgraded later this year.
“Work has now started on extending the tram to the Entertainment Centre and in time we’ll be extending tram services to West Lakes, Port Adelaide and Semaphore,” he said.
“An efficient and green public transport system, coupled with Transit Oriented Developments such as Bowden Village, will make Adelaide a more attractive and affordable place to live and a more competitive place to do business.”
7 May, 2009
Riverbank slumps
to be shored up
The Department of Water, Land and Biodiversity Conservation has called on residents and visitors to the River Murray to keep a lookout for the signs of slumping along the riverbank and to report any they see immediately. The DWLBC said that sections of the Murray riverbank between Lock 1 and Wellington were most at risk of slumping.
Previous incidents in this area had caused vehicles and trees to slide into the river without warning.
The Department said a 500m section of riverbank at Sturt Reserve, Murray Bridge, had also developed major cracking, which generally precedes riverbank slumping.
The Department said that the owners of 15 shacks in the reserve had been advised of the danger by officers from the DWLBC and the Rural City of Murray Bridge.
DWLBC said the common signs of potential slumping include longitudinal cracking, fallen or leaning trees, vegetation leaning toward water, or bubbling in the water.
The Department said slumping often occurs where banks are steep and have a sudden drop-off and where there are signs of erosion or small bank collapses.
The Department said residents and visitors to the River Murray should avoid camping, driving, or using boats in areas where signs of cracking can be seen.
Incidents of riverbank slumping, or major cracking, should be reported to the MurrayWatch Hotline on (08) 8531 0710.
For further information contact DWLBC on 8204 8548, or visit www.dwlbc.sa.gov.au
7 May, 2009
Emergency warnings
ring alarm bells
A national emergency warning system, based on the telephone network, is to be introduced across all States and Territories for use in major natural and other disasters.The new initiative will send warning alerts by recorded voice and text to landline and mobile phones, advising the public of any looming major emergency.
The new system would add to the existing range of warning measures that included television and radio alerts, public address systems, doorknocking, sirens, signage and the internet.
Under an agreement made by the Council of Australian Governments at its recent meeting in Hobart, the new system will be operated by State and Territory authorities and developed following an open tender process.
The Commonwealth will inject up to $15 million to assist the States and Territories set it up.
According to COAG, the system will be developed to ensure it can work during periods of heavy telephone traffic but would be limited to sending alerts to mobile phones based on their billing addresses, rather than where the handset was at the time of the emergency.
A research project is to be conducted to overcome this limitation.
The Federal Government has changed the law to allow access to the Integrated Public Number Database of up-to-date telephone numbers, while protecting the identity of individuals.
7 May, 2009
Drink-driving lock
is one for the road
New drink driving laws have been put in place requiring repeat offenders to fit alcohol interlocks to their cars. Road Safety Minister, Michael O’Brien said the new laws would help to protect the public from dangerous drink drivers.
“We are targetting those recalcitrant drink drivers who have little or no regard for the wider community, let alone their own safety,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Alcohol interlocks will make it impossible for these irresponsible drivers to start their cars if they register a positive alcohol reading.”
He said the laws would require anyone who had lost their licence for drink driving and then reoffended, to fit the interlocks to their vehicle for a period equal to their last disqualification.
He said the number of South Australian road fatalities found to have a blood alcohol level over 0.05 had increased from 22% to 37% over the last decade.
“In 2008, 37% of driver and rider fatalities tested had an illegal blood alcohol content,” he said.
“On average – over the same five year period – 64% of all driver and rider fatalities with a blood alcohol reading above 0.05 were, in fact, over 0.15.”
He said the interlock scheme would apply to repeat drink drivers, or anyone who has repeatedly refused to provide a breath or blood sample for alcohol testing.
He said the penalty for anyone on the interlock scheme who drives unlicenced in another car would be a fine of $5,000, or imprisonment for one year, and disqualification from holding a licence for three years.
7 May, 2009
Super advice for
pension planners
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority has released draft guidance on how superannuation funds should manage their reserves.Deputy Chairman of APRA, Ross Jones, said a discussion paper and draft had been released for consultation before the guide was finalised later this year, and interested parties were invited to have their say.
Mr Jones said the draft provided practical guidance on measures APRA regarded as good practice for a trustee and its directors to take in managing fund reserves.
“It provides examples of specific types of reserves and outlines measures for inclusion in a reserving strategy,” he said.
Mr Jones said the draft Prudential Practice Guide 235 Use of reserves in superannuation funds distinguished between amounts set aside for contingent events and provisions for accrued expenses such as administration or taxation.
He said it also focused on measures a trustee could consider in formulating a comprehensive reserving strategy.
Mr Jones said the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 (SIS Act) contained provisions relating to the maintenance and management of fund reserves, but that reserves were not defined in the Act.
He said trustees and their directors were required to develop and implement a strategy for the prudent management of these reserves.
Submissions close on 5 June 2009, with copies of the guide available from www.apra.gov.au
APRA is expected to release further superannuation prudential practice guides shortly as part of a review of existing guidance notes and circulars.
7 May, 2009
Relationship program
to smash violence
A series of education programs designed to teach young people about respectful relationships is to be set up as part of the Government’s campaign against violence.Minister for the Status of Women, Gail Gago said that five community education programs would be established to teach young people about the importance of respectful relationships.
“South Australians are fed up with violence in our community and deserve better,” Ms Gago said.
“Our anti-violence campaign needs to breakdown a cycle of abuse ranging from verbal and psychological attacks to emotional and physical impacts.”
Ms Gago said the education programs would be set up using $50,000 of Government grants, as part of its $868,000 anti-violence campaign.
She said the education programs would work in unison with the Government’s reformed rape and sexual assault laws, and the current review of domestic violence laws.
She said the education grants were directed at improving young people’s attitudes to violence and aimed at engaging youths who were inaccessible through mainstream avenues.
“We want to connect with people in ways that they will understand and using avenues they can relate to,” she said.
“Violence prevention and early intervention efforts using these grants are particularly aimed at helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups, rural and remote communities and youth from newly emerging communities and refugees.”
The grant recipients included the YWCA of Adelaide’s Changing the Face of Consent program, the Legal Services Commission’s Expect Respect program and the Mutlicultural Youth SA’s It’s All About Respect program.
Ms Gago said other projects included an anti-violence program from the Vietnamese Community in Australia, and a legal awareness program designed by the Central Northern Adelaide Health Service.
She said a broader anti-violence campaign was also being developed for mainstream media dispersal and further community engagement.
7 May, 2009
Guideline for comment
The State Procurement Board has called for public feedback on its draft Market Approaches Guideline.
The Board is asking for public authorities to provide feedback on the Guideline, which provides information and advice for procuring goods and services.
The Guideline also sets out the Board’s expected standards and requirements for procurement.
The closing date for feedback is Monday 18 May 2009 and further information is available from the Senior Policy Officer in Contract Services, Novri Spagnoletti on 8226 2096 or by email spagnoletti.novri@saugov.sa.gov.au
Response to water plan
SA Water has received over 600 responses from the community to its water security plan for the Yorke Peninsula.
Head of Regional Operations for SA Water, Rob Dowling, said the feedback had provided valuable information, particularly in relation to the mains water supply system.
Mr Dowling said 130 community members had also volunteered to help develop a long-term water security strategy for the region.
He said forums would soon be held in Yorketown, Minlaton, Maitland, Kadina and Adelaide in May so that communities could further express their views on the mains water supply system and general water security issues.
NT picks up bottle scheme
The Northern Territory Government has announced it will introduce a drink container deposit scheme similar to South Australia’s.
Environment and Conservation Minister for South Australia, Jay Weatherill said the decision was a testament to the State’s environmental leadership.
Mr Weatherill said the NT deposit scheme was largely modeled on the South Australian scheme, which had greatly increased the recycling of drinking containers in the State.
“The container deposit scheme has been an outstanding success - with drink containers making up less than 10 per cent of SA’s litter compared with 40 per cent nationally,” Mr Weatherill said.
Harbour TAFE gets OK
The Public Works Committee has approved the construction of the new TAFE SA campus at Victor Harbor.
Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education, Michael O’Brien said the $9.4 million project would now go through a tender process.
Mr O’Brien said construction was scheduled to begin on the Campus in July this year.
Teachers prepare for SACE
South Australian teachers are to take part in numerous workshops and conferences across the State in preparation for next year’s introduction of the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).
Education Minister, Jane Lomax-Smith said the Government had invested more than $10 million for professional development for teachers and for trialling new SACE subjects.
Dr Lomax-Smith said the workshops and conferences would be conducted throughout the State during the first weeks of this new term.
COAG takes SA lead
The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) has followed South Australia’s lead in education by announcing a national agreement to ensure all young people are either in school or work.
Education Minister, Jane Lomax-Smith said the scheme complements the South Australian Government’s decision to raise the compulsory education age to 17.
Dr Lomax-Smith said this decision helped to provide leadership for new national compulsory education requirements.
Roxby police all go
Construction on a $10 million police station at Roxby Downs is about to begin.
The new police station will help the town cope with the expected population increase caused by BHP’s Olympic Dam Expansion.
Police Minister, Michael Wright said the facility will accommodate an extra 30 police officers and 2 administration staff and would help to ensure security in communities in and around Roxby Downs.
A further $4.4 million has been provided to meet housing, transport and location costs for the extra officers.
Lawyers regulated
The Australian legal profession is to be regulated nationally with the Council of Australian Governments appointing a special taskforce to draft uniform legislation.
A consultative group advising the taskforce will include members from each State and Territory, representing peak legal, business and consumer groups.
The legislation will be presented to COAG for consideration by May 2010, and will replace the 55 different regulations which currently operate across the nation.