SearchArchives for January 2010
28 January, 2010Ethical plan to
guard PS integrity
A new Ethical Services Branch in the Public Service Commission and standard contracts for Ministerial staffers are among proposals put forward by the Government to improve the integrity of interaction between the Public Service and Ministerial offices.The proposals were outlined by the Premier, Anna Bligh, and appear in a submission to the Crime and Misconduct Commission which is inquiring into the way Ministers and Ministerial staff interact with Public Servants
Ms Bligh said the measures would help prevent Ministerial staff from inappropriately giving directions to Public Servants and would clarify the parameters of interaction between them.
She said the Government was committed to integrity within the Public Service.
In the Government’s submission it said reforms were needed to clarify when Ministerial staff could give directions to Public Servants and the process available to Public Service officers to challenge or question requests from Ministers’ offices.
The plan to set up an Ethical Standards Branch in the PS was accompanied by a suggestion that the relevant Codes of Conduct be reviewed and that a single Code be introduced for the PS. The new branch would be available to advise Public Service employees on ethical issues.
Ms Bligh said that education and awareness-raising initiatives could be used to promote cultural change across the PS and increase knowledge of the role of Ministerial advisers.
“The majority of interactions between Ministerial staff and the Public Service are entirely appropriate and are an important part of ensuring Ministers meet their responsibilities,” she said.
She proposed introducing standard appointment contracts for Ministerial staff that included a clause making clear that they did not have the power or authority to direct Public Servants unless ordered to by their Minister.
“This has been a grey area and this new clause within standard Ministerial staffers’ contracts would make it perfectly clear how direction is to be delegated,” Ms Bligh said.
The submission said Ministerial staff provided political advice to Ministers, freeing Public Servants from the pressure of considering political interests and complementing the independent and apolitical advice of the PS.
“Together, the work performed by Ministerial staff and the Public Service contribute to a robust system that allows Ministers to receive information and analysis that considers all factors relevant to their position,” it says.
Ms Bligh said the Government acknowledged that there was always more that could be done to ensure clarity and broad understanding within the Public Sector regarding the levels of authority that Ministers, Ministerial advisers and Public Service employees had, and that appropriate relationships were established and maintained.
The full 19-page Government submission to the CMC can be downloaded from the Department of Premier and Cabinet website, www.premiers.qld.gov.au
28 January, 2010
PS chimes in for gongs
The Governor-General, Quentin Bryce has awarded Public Service Medals to four members of the Queensland Public Service and two from Local Government.The recipients were included in the Australia Day Awards.
PUBLIC SERVICE MEDAL (PSM)
Barry BALL PSM
Brisbane City Council
For outstanding public service, particularly in the south east Queensland region, in the area of water policy, management and reform.
Mr Ball’s outstanding leadership and successes in the field of water policy, management and reform have resulted in a significant contribution to the sustainability of water resources, not only for Brisbane but for the south east Queensland region.
He was instrumental in establishing and supporting the South East Queensland (SEQ) Water Reform, working in collaboration with the Queensland Government and several Councils, and contributing his expertise and support to stakeholder committees to achieve best outcomes for the water reform process.
Mr Ball’s initiative, abilities, skills and experience are well recognised at the local, regional, state, national and international levels and by industry and community stakeholders.
He has also been responsible for the establishment of the Moreton Bay Waterways and Catchment Partnership, a Brisbane River Corridor Management Plan, the SEQ Regional Water Quality Monitoring Program, a Waterways Forum for Brisbane City and a Regional Stormwater Information Group.
Mr Ball has displayed exceptional leadership and dedication in the area of water reform to the benefit of the Queensland community.
Professor Ernest HUNTER PSM
Queensland Health
For outstanding public service to Queensland Health, particularly in the delivery of mental health initiatives in rural Queensland.
Professor Hunter is a regional psychiatrist with Queensland Health and Adjunct Professor at James Cook University. He was previously Foundation Professor Public Health (Mental Health) with the University of Queensland’s School of Social and Preventative Medicine based in Cairns.
Over the past 15 years he has worked diligently at all levels across policy development, governance, research, education and service delivery, focusing on mental health development and capacity building in rural and remote communities.
Professor Hunter is actively involved in research activities such as the Health Interactive Technology Network and the Australian Integrated Mental Health Initiative, both of which actively engage remote communities and provide sustainable mental health outcomes.
Professor Hunter conceptualised and developed the Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health Queensland, which was launched in 2006 and is now well established and successfully pursuing a diverse range of mental health policy and practice research and activities. He remains closely affiliated with the Centre as a Foundation Fellow.
Professor Hunter is internationally recognised as an expert in mental health and is renowned for his innovative programs to the benefit of local people, particularly in Indigenous communities of far north Queensland.
Laurel LEINSTER PSM
Education & Training
For outstanding public service to Queensland education through commitment and leadership as Deputy Principal of Mareeba State School.
Mrs Leinster has provided outstanding service as Deputy Principal of Mareeba State School.
She has been an exceptional performer at all levels of her involvement as a teacher, Deputy-Principal, mentor and administrator, and has worked tirelessly to ensure equity and justice for students, their parents and extended families through understanding of each child’s unique educational and social needs.
Mrs Leinster’s initiatives have seen more Indigenous staff and trainee teachers employed within the school, and she has broken down racial barriers and achieved reconciliation within the school community.
As an administrator, Mrs Leinster is dedicated to ensuring equality of educational opportunities for all students regardless of the individual student’s culture, creed or socio-economic background.
Her collaborative, consultative approach to strengthening home-school partnerships and problem solving has resulted in many ‘at risk’ students making positive changes to achieve learning outcomes.
Mrs Leinster’s dedication, commitment and high expectations have inspired families in the community of Mareeba to embrace and value structured education.
Liz MACKIE PSM
Western Cape College
For outstanding public service to Queensland education, particularly in the community of Aurukun, through leadership and innovation as Principal of Aurukun Campus Western Cape College.
Ms Mackie has served the community of Aurukun with distinction as Principal of Aurukun Campus Western Cape College.
She has been an exceptional performer at all levels of her involvement as a teacher, principal, mentor and administrator.
Ms Mackie has worked to transform Aurukun School and has produced unprecedented results in attendance levels and graduation outcomes, with the number of graduate students steadily improving.
She has successfully executed public sector reforms to benefit Aurukun School. School vandalism and dilapidation have decreased due to her encouragement of school pride and ongoing repairs.
She also introduced nutrition programs and treatment of dental decay and hearing problems, and successfully implemented school swimming to trigger the town pool opening. Under her leadership, the school held its first ever sports carnival on the town oval.
Ms Mackie’s exceptional dedication, commitment and vision have resulted in the transformation of the Aurukun School from a previously ailing school to a place of quality education, re-invigoration and hope for the local community.
Dr John PATTEN PSM
Queensland Health
For outstanding public service to Queensland Health in the development of sexual health medicine in Queensland.
Dr Patten has worked in a senior capacity for Queensland Health in sexual health and HIV medicine for over 20 years, and was instrumental in Queensland Health’s response to the HIV/Aids epidemic during the 1980s.
Dr Patten provided leadership in the face of the HIV/Aids epidemic and has since established outstanding epidemiological data collection and a network of high quality clinical services around Queensland.
He has devoted much of his working life to enhancing the cause of public health, to prioritising, improving and expanding sexual health and HIV services across the community.
Dr Patten is renowned for reaching out to the most marginalised within the community, and has struggled consistently to achieve a place for sexual health medicine as a critical component of public health and a priority area for Queensland Health.
Dr Patten has worked to raise the profile of the sexual health specialty in Queensland and has shown enthusiasm and commitment in the face of an often unglamorous profession. He has provided exceptional service to the community of Queensland in the area of sexual health medicine.
Chris ROSE PSM
Logan City Council
For outstanding public service, particularly to the community of Logan, as Chief Executive Officer of Logan City Council.
Mr Rose has provided outstanding service in his role as Chief Executive Officer of the Logan City Council (one of Australia’s largest Local Government Councils), and has a distinct focus on effective outcomes for both the community and the Council.
Mr Rose is highly regarded throughout the community and is often called upon by non-local government bodies to advise on the development of strategic policy, legislation, guidelines and regulations.
He has provided his expertise internationally on the capacity of local government to provide efficient and effective services to its communities.
Mr Rose is an advocate in developing Logan’s youth, and champions the Logan City Council’s Traineeship Program that focuses on employing local youth and providing them with the skills and education needed to become future leaders in the community.
He has also implemented innovative programs, such as the Executive Management Performance Scheme that has realigned the organisation’s structure through the development of streams, to encourage effective processes, improved productivity and better service delivery.
Mr Rose exemplifies the modern and dedicated public sector and community leader who, in a demanding environment, consistently performs and delivers exceptional outcomes for local government and the community.
28 January, 2010
Monitor to keep eye
on civil liberties
Recruitment of the State’s first Criminal Organisation Public Interest Monitor (COPIM) to protect civil liberties in the fight against organised crime has begun.Attorney-General, Cameron Dick said the appointment of the COPIM was an important step in the Government’s fight against organised crime.
Mr Dick said the COPIM would be an independent lawyer who represented the public interest by testing police applications to the Supreme Court that sought for groups to be declared criminal organisations.
“The Government passed new laws to attack the illegal activities of criminal organisations, such as outlawing motorcycle gangs, during the last sitting of Parliament,” Mr Dick said.
“Since then, the Government has been proceeding quickly with the roll-out of the new laws.
“The Criminal Organisation Public Interest Monitor is a key safeguard in our regime to protect civil liberties while allowing police to dismantle and disrupt organised crime.”
Mr Dick said the COPIM would monitor every application made to the Supreme Court by police for orders under the Criminal Organisation Act 2009.
“Queensland is the only State to appoint a COPIM and we have ruled that applicants have to be eligible for appointment as a judge of the Supreme Court in Queensland or other Australian jurisdictions,” he said.
The successful applicant will be chosen by a panel that includes representatives of the Queensland Law Society, the Bar Association of Queensland and the Queensland Council of Civil Liberties.
Applications close on 5 February and further information is available from www.cabinet.qld.gov.au
28 January, 2010
Unionists unite to
shake quake pain
Queensland Public Sector Union delegates at the Department of Environment and Resource Management raised over $4,000 for victims of the Haiti earthquake in just 30 hours.Staff across four Brisbane offices held a series of morning teas to raise funds to help with the relief effort.
QPSU Workplace Delegate at the Department of Environment and Resource Management (DERM), Lachlan Hurse said staff contributed the funds they raised to the Union Aid Abroad’s Haiti appeal.
Union Aid Abroad is the Australian Council of Trade Union’s overseas humanitarian aid agency.
Mr Hurse spoke at one of the morning teas, saying the money raised showed the “generous spirit of DERM staff.”
“The people of Haiti are mostly descendents of African slaves and have endured a very troubled history,” he said.
“However, the current catastrophe is enormous and Haiti will require assistance for many years to come.”
Mr Hurse urged other workplaces to hold their own fundraisers to help the people of Haiti recover and rebuild.
“The DERM events were functions in which management, unionists and other employees worked in unison, and it would be good for other worksites to follow suit,” he said.
He said QPSU delegates at the Department would continue raising funds to add to their $4,021.75 total.
The Brisbane offices that participated in the fundraisers were Mineral House, 400 George Street, the Indooroopilly Science Precinct and the Toowong Herbarium.
28 January, 2010
Standards take care
of care concerns
New national standards for the treatment of children in care are to be developed by all State and Territory Governments in the coming months.Announced by the Federal Minister for Families and Community Services, Jenny Macklin, the new standards are part of a push for common policies across the nation.
“Currently, child protection systems vary markedly across the country,” Ms Macklin said, “with each State and Territory having its own child protection policy, standards and legislation.
“We need national standards of care so children who cannot live with their families can grow up in a safe, secure environment.”
Ms Macklin said options being considered included best practice standards for assessing foster carers, appropriate training and support for carers and a benchmark for regular health checks for children in foster families.
“The tragic and apparently preventable death of a 12-year-old Northern Territory girl and the Coroner’s findings on her death show just how important it is for the health and welfare of children in care to be regularly monitored,” she said.
Ms Macklin said the standards also aimed to reduce disruption for kids in foster care.
She said a 2009 study showed children in foster care moved homes an average of 5.7 times in the past five years.
“By reducing the number of placements, children can have the stable and secure environment that’s essential for their long term development and wellbeing,” Ms Macklin said.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s (AIHW) report, Child Protection Australia 2008-09, over 34,000 children were living in out-of-home care at 30 June 2009, a 9.3 per cent increase from the previous year.
Spokesperson for the AIHW, Kate Valentine said while there appears to have been a rise in children needing protection, other factors could have contributed.
Ms Valentine said these factors included greater community awareness, a broadening of what is regarded as child abuse or neglect and changes to child protection policies.
She said the Institute’s report showed the rate of Indigenous children in out-of-home care was over nine times greater than non-Indigenous kids.
Ms Macklin urged all stakeholders, including children carers, practitioners and organisations, to contribute ideas to help develop the national standards.
She said national consultations would start in February in all Australian capital cities, as well as four regional locations in Queensland, Western Australia, New South Wales and the Northern Territory.
The AIHW report was available from www.aihw.gov.au
28 January, 2010
Achievers receive
achievement awards
The Department of Community Safety has honoured many of its staff and volunteers with Australia Day achievement awards.Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Emergency Services, Peta-Kaye Croft commended the efforts of frontline, support and administrative personnel.
“Whether they are Departmental staff, or volunteers with organisations such as the Rural Fire Service, SES, Volunteer Marine Rescue or a local ambulance committee, these people give so much of themselves and their time to helping their communities and their State,” Ms Croft said.
She said 41 DCS personnel and volunteers had received Achievement Medallions in recognition of their dedication and commitment to community safety.
Award recipients were recognised for a range of services from providing frontline assistance to Queenslanders during emergencies, to working passionately and with innovation behind the scenes to enhance the delivery of services.
Ms Croft said the annual Australia Day awards, sponsored by QSuper, had become a tradition at the Department of Community Safety.
Another ceremony in Cairns honoured Far North Queenslanders working in the area of community safety.
Minister for Local Government, Desley Boyle presented 25 DCS staff and volunteers with Achievement Medallions.
Far North Queensland business, Total Safety received an Achievement Certificate in recognition of its support for the State Emergency Service.
Ms Boyle also presented National Medals, Diligent and Ethical Service Medals and Meritorious Service Medals to several Queensland Fire and Rescue and Emergency Management Queensland staff and volunteers.
28 January, 2010
Car clamp is key to
fine clamp-down
Tough new laws that clamp down on fine-dodgers are already having effect with more than $2 million recovered since their introduction on 1 January.Attorney-General, Cameron Dick said the new laws would be trialled for 12 months, targetting “long-term fine bludgers” who had refused to pay their outstanding debts.
He said the laws increased the State Penalties Enforcement Register’s (SPER’s) powers, allowing it to clamp wheels, seize property and suspend driver licences.
“Since the new laws were passed in Parliament last year, SPER has been contacting debtors who risk falling foul of the new enforcement options,” Mr Dick said.
“Almost 250 defaulters – 221 individual debtors and 26 corporate debtors – with debts totaling $2.1 million, have agreed to enter repayment plans for their outstanding fines since the new laws came into effect.”
The Attorney-General said SPER had also informed two long-term debtors who owed a combined total of more than $24,000 that the Government would clamp their vehicles if they did not meet their obligations.
“The first two notices were issued on 4 January and gave the debtors 14 days to start repaying their fines otherwise a warrant to immobilise their vehicle would be issued,” Mr Dick said.
“The notices had the desired effect with both debtors quickly contacting SPER to make upfront payments and enter payment plans.
“One of these debts had been owed for almost eight years, so the new laws are having an impact.”
He said SPER had issued a further seven wheel-clamping notices and expected to issue even more in coming weeks.
Mr Dick said publicity surrounding the new powers had also had a direct effect on SPER’s collection in the lead-up to their introduction.
“In December last year, $13.1 million was collected, an increase of $1.7 million – or 15 per cent – over December 2008, making it the highest December collection ever,” he said.
“We still have a long way to go but it seems that fine dodgers are getting the message.
“Queenslanders expect people who break the law and receive a fine to pay their debt in full,” he said.
28 January, 2010
Heat turned up on
insulation industry
Inspectors from the Electrical Safety Office and Workplace Health and Safety Queensland are on track to audit 500 roofing insulation installers by the end of this month in an industry crackdown that started last November.Minister for Industrial Relations, Cameron Dick said the inspection blitz follows the deaths of three workers in the industry, two of which occurred in Queensland.
“The inspectors have been checking that insulation installers are meeting their safety obligations as well as complying with new rules that came into effect from 1 November to improve worker and householder safety,” Mr Dick said.
“I’m encouraged that inspectors have found that insulation installers have knowledge of the key safety issues and are doing the right thing by not using metal fixings or installing insulation over downlights.”
However he said there was still room for improvement in the industry as inspectors found installers who needed to improve their on-site risk assessments and record keeping.
Mr Dick said the Electrical Safety Office and Workplace Health and Safety Queensland were investigating the deaths of the two Queensland insulation installers.
The two installers, aged 25 and 16, died in separate incidents on 14 October in Brisbane and 18 November in Stanwell.
“Two deaths only a few weeks apart highlighted, in the most tragic circumstances, the electrical and other workplace safety risks associated with installing ceiling insulation,” Mr Dick said.
“Such tragedies can be avoided if installers take basic safety precautions on every job.”
28 January, 2010
Review to fill road
safety potholes
The Minister for Main Roads, Craig Wallace, has announced a review of road signs used around road works to improve their consistency, clarity and effectiveness across the State.Mr Wallace said the review would also reduce the frustration felt by motorists.
“We know we can reduce driver frustration by ensuring smooth reductions in speed around worksites and by ensuring speed reductions through inactive worksites at night and on weekends are only in place when required for safety due to changed road conditions,” Mr Wallace said.
“You can’t spend $18 billion on road works like we’re doing over the next five years without causing a bit of disruption.”
Mr Wallace said consistent signage and placements would help to promote safer behaviour by drivers.
“This review will help us ensure current practices are the most effective in promoting safe driving while these important works are underway,” he said.
“It also is important to inform and educate all drivers that roadworks often involve changed road conditions, irrespective of whether workers are onsite. Safety is always our number one priority.”
He said topics to be considered in the review would include the nature and placement of signage around road works; speed limit changes around work zones; ensuring road workers were properly trained in signage procedures; compliance with existing rules and guidelines; and increasing speed near road works at night and on weekends if safe to do so.
Mr Wallace said that between July 2003 and March 2008 there were six deaths and 22 serious injuries in Queensland related to roadwork and civil construction.
“From 2000 to 2005 there was an average of 430 crashes a year where road works were one contributing factor,” he said.
“Better roadwork site planning, the introduction of barrier trucks to protect workers, introduction of high-visibility personal protective equipment to increase road worker visibility, the use of cement barriers to separate road works from the roadway, road signage and use of traffic cones and variable message boards have made this environment safer for both workers and road users.”
28 January, 2010
Power cuts a bonus
in energy campaign
The Government’s ClimateSmart program that fits energy-efficient light bulbs, water-efficient showerheads and smart-energy monitors in homes is expected to save participating households $66 million in power bills in the coming year.Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Kate Jones said simple things such as washing the clothes at non-peak times, cutting down on time spent in the shower and switching appliances off at the wall added up to big savings on bills.
“In 12 months, we’ve visited homes from Coolangatta to the Cape to help Queenslanders save up to $325 per year on electricity and water costs,” Ms Jones said.
She said in addition to financial savings, ClimateSmart homes were helping the Government reach its Q2 Target to cut Queensland’s carbon footprint by one-third by 2020.
The ClimateSmart Home Service is a State initiative that began in January 2009.
Through the program, households are provided with up to $450 worth of water and power-saving equipment and advice for just $50.
The fittings and light bulbs allow households to automatically save up to $325 per year on power and water bills, and thousands of residents are saving an additional estimated $20 million total per year by cutting their electricity consumption as a result of using their wireless power monitor.
Households also receive a personalised Energy and Water Efficiency Plan based on their individual energy usage habits and appliances.
More information about CimateSmart could be obtained from www.climatesmarthome.com
28 January, 2010
Councils urged to be
fair with fairer sex
A campaign designed to encourage more women to serve on Local Government Councils has been endorsed at the highest level.Federal Minister for Local Government, Anthony Albanese, announced in Sydney that the Commonwealth would back the scheme, committing $500,000 to a range of projects to help women play a more active role in leadership and management at the Local Government level.
Mr Albanese said the 2010 Year of Women in Local Government campaign would encourage Councils to reflect the communities they represent by boosting female employment.
“Local Governments make an important contribution to the nation, delivering vital infrastructure and services, such as local roads, community facilities, environmental and waste services, child care and health and welfare services,” Mr Albanese said.
“However, less than a third of Councillors are women; 20 per cent of senior managers are women; and only seven per cent of Chief Executive Officers are women.”
The national Minister for the Status of Women, Tanya Plibersek said many talented Australian women got their political start in Local Government.
“Councils are big employers in local communities,” Ms Plibersek said.
“Organisations that employ women and people from diverse backgrounds better represent and understand their community leading to better results.”
She said Governments had taken a number of steps to improve the way Councils engage with women.
Ms Plibersek said these steps included providing funding for gender equity programs and auditing the status of women in leadership roles.
Other measures include funding for scholarships, improved data collection on the status of women in the Local Government sector and identifying strategies to promote gender equity in Councils.
Further information on 2010 Year or Women in Local Government was available from www.lgwomen2010.org.au
28 January, 2010
Firework collections
skyrocket
The Minister for Mines and Energy has used the Australia Day celebrations to remind the community of their options for disposing of old explosives and fireworks.The Minister, Stephen Robertson, said a 16-year-old explosives amnesty allowed people to safely dispose of explosives and associated equipment stored on their property.
Mr Robertson said fireworks could be disposed of by calling the Government’s Explosives Inspectorate response line on1300 739 868.
He said the Explosives Inspectorate would inspect, collect and dispose of any unwanted explosives at no charge to the owner.
“We want to get explosives and old fireworks out of the community. It’s as simple as that,” Mr Robertson said.
“Queensland has the highest retrieval rate of explosives of any State in Australia, because of our proactive stance.”
The Minister said items that had been relinquished in the past included old gelignite, detonators and forgotten fireworks and flares.
He said it was an offence for an unlicensed person to possess explosives, including fireworks, without an authority under the Explosives Act 1999 and to dispose of them inappropriately.
“Fortunately, most people act responsibly with the disposal of explosives,” he said.
“Their surrender is common and Queensland explosives inspectors made 447 collections of unwanted explosives last year.”
The number of old explosives recovered or handed in to the inspectorate more than doubled to 554 separate recoveries in 2008-09 compared with 254 in 2001-02.
28 January, 2010
Insects to solve a
prickly problem
Scientists at Biosecurity Queensland are to import insects from Mexico to assist them in their war against the damaging weed, Hudson Pear.Acting Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland, Peter Lawlor said the Hudson Pear, or Cylindropuntia rosea, was originally introduced from Mexico.
Mr Lawlor said the weed was a variety of cactus and had sharp spikes strong enough to puncture car tyres.
“Although the weed is found mainly in north-western NSW, smaller infestations have been reported in Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory,” he said.
“Queensland scientists are studying the Mexican cochineal insect, Dactylopius tomentosus, to see if it is a biological control that will stop Hudson Pear from spreading.”
Mr Lawlor said if the insect proved to be safe and did not pose a danger to native vegetation or crops it would be released and was expected to breed quickly due to the abundance of the weed.
“The insects will suck the juices out of the plant, making it unhealthy and hopefully killing it,” Mr Lawlor said.
“Queensland scientists are planning a pre-emptive strike on the weed before it invades Queensland and menaces humans, animals and car tyres.”
Principal Entomologist at Biosecurity Queensland, Bill Palmer said as Hudson Pear originated from Mexico, it had no natural enemies in Australia and an insect from its native country was required to control it.
“A strain of this particular insect was highly effective in destroying a close relative of Hudson Pear in South Africa and we’re hoping to achieve similar results here,” Mr Palmer said.
Mr Lawlor said the Alan Fletcher Research Station in Sherwood, Brisbane, where the tests are taking place, has built a reputation for its world-class weed research, especially in the field of biological control.
28 January, 2010
Program takes pains
for chronic sufferers
A partnership between Queensland Health and a number of healthcare providers has led to the trial of a new care program for people with chronic diseases.The Linking Chronic Disease Services program, (LINCS) is the first of its kind in Australia and aims to improve the quality of life and reduce unplanned hospital admissions for patients with heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and other long-term chronic illnesses.
It is being trialled on the Darling Downs by an estimated 100 patients.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Health, Paul Lucas said $875,000 over two years had been pledged by Queensland Health under the Queensland Strategy for Chronic Disease 2005-2015.
The funds are to be distributed through participating partners including RHealth, GP Connections and Bluecare.
“The Government is committed to reducing rates of chronic disease by a third by 2020 and initiatives such as this will go to lengths to help us achieve this,” Mr Lucas said.
“This initiative has been recognised as an example of the future of chronic disease management and its services will contribute to managing growing demand for, and supply of, health services in the area.”
Mr Lucas said patients living with a long-term chronic condition would be allocated a Care Coordinator who would complete a comprehensive assessment and care plan in consultation with the patient’s GP.
The Care Coordinator could be the patient’s practice nurse, a nurse from a Non-Government Organisation such as BlueCare, or a community health nurse (Queensland Health), depending on the needs of the patient.
There are more than 80 private, Government and non-Government providers registered for the program across areas including physiotherapy, psychology, exercise psychology, speech pathology and pharmacy.
28 January, 2010
Grants guide has
free advice
New guidelines to assist Local Councils allocate community grants fairly and openly have been released by the Minister for Local Government, Desley Boyle.Ms Boyle said while many Councils had processes in place to guide the open and transparent allocation of community grants, some did not.
“Sometimes community groups can think others are getting favoured when it comes to the allocation of community grants,” Ms Boyle said.
“These guidelines have been developed especially to give community groups greater peace of mind and give Councils direction in how to ensure they are open and transparent when allocating community grants.”
She said the guidelines, which are free and available on the web, had been designed to help Councils in Queensland achieve best practice.
“For those Councils with grant procedures already in place, the guidelines can act as a benchmark,” Ms Boyle said.
“For Councils without processes, this tool will be invaluable in improving the management of their grant schemes.”
The Minister said the guide covered the design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of grant schemes, as well as the application and risk assessment process, training, communication and how to avoid some common pitfalls.
“It is also important for Councils to communicate the availability of grant money as well as the application and assessment process,” Ms Boyle said.
“There’s no point having funding available if no one knows about its existence.
“By using the guidelines, Local Governments will be making the most of their available funding pools.”
The guidelines also feature a range of sample forms such as a grants policy, a funding agreement, community guidelines, application form and instructions for applicants.
They were available from www.dip.qld.gov.au
28 January, 2010
Financial reform
worth the risk
New draft laws that boost the powers of the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) to regulate operators in the Australian financial sector have been released for public comment.Federal Minister for Financial Services, Superannuation and Corporate Law, Chris Bowen said the draft Bill would help Australia achieve a risk based, consultative regulatory framework that was consistent with international best practice.
Mr Bowen said the Financial Sector Legislation Amendment (Prudential Refinements and Other Measures) Bill 2010 would enhance APRA’s power to investigate and detect risks to prudentially regulated institutions and the financial system.
He said it would also help promote stability in the financial system and allow APRA to force institutions to comply with prudential requirements.
Mr Bowen said the draft Bill would allow APRA to act when regulated financial institutions were at risk of experiencing financial distress and would give it the power to administer the financial claims scheme which protects deposits of up to $1 million in Australian banks, credit unions and building societies,
It would also allow APRA to collect data need to identify and respond to developments in the financial sector.
Mr Bowen said the new Commonwealth Bill would amend the financial sector levy frameworks recommended in the Federal Treasury’s 2009 Report of the Review of Financial Sector Levies.
He encouraged interested parties to make submissions in response to the draft proposals or regulatory offsets.
Submissions close on 16 March 2010 and further information was available from www.treasury.gov.au
28 January, 2010
Wage talks continue
The Queensland Public Sector Union is continuing discussions with the State Government on the wage agreement for Senior Officers.
A spokesperson for QPSU said the appointment of the new Public Service Commissioner, Margaret Allison, in early January had slowed the process as she needed to be briefed on the issue.
While core staff received early payments and back-pay for their 4.5 per cent wage increase before Christmas last year, Senior Officers are not covered by the collective agreement.
Graduates join force
Ninety-two new police officers have graduated at a ceremony in Brisbane.
Acting Minister for Police, Andrew Fraser said the officers would serve in Metropolitan North, Metropolitan South, North Coast, South Eastern and Central Queensland.
The new constables came from a variety of backgrounds including education, professionals, trades, hospitality, human resources and administration.
Tax staff to visit Cairns
A specialist taskforce from the Australian Tax Office will visit Cairns from 1 to 5 February to provide onsite, one-on-one support to small business owners having difficulties with their finances and tax matters.
The ATO has already begun offering practical assistance to small businesses in the Cairns area over the phone.
Fifty-six officers from the ATO have been phoning small businesses in the Cairns area for the past two weeks.
Holiday warning
The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) is warning consumers of the potential pitfalls of booking holidays over the phone with telemarketers.
The OFT has received complaints from people who booked holiday vouchers only to later realise they weren’t what they expected or were promised.
The OFT urged consumers to pay attention to the telemarketer, saying legally binding contracts could be made verbally and cooling off periods were not legally required when booking by phone.
Training awards open
Nominations are open for the 49th annual Queensland Training Awards which feature 11 categories including employers, apprentices, trainees, vocational students and training providers.
Minister for Education and Training, Geoff Wilson said last year’s awards attracted more than 640 nominations from across Queensland.
Regional finals are to be held throughout the State during July and August ahead of the State final in Brisbane.
Nominations close on 18 March, with further information available from www.qta.qld.gov.au
Lighters banned
An interim ban on the sale of toy-like novelty cigarette lighters has been ordered by the Minister for Fair Trading, Peter Lawlor.
Mr Lawlor said the lighters, designed to look like toy animals such as frogs or chickens, posed a danger to children.
Statistics from the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service showed 29 house fires were started by children playing with lighters, matches or candles in 2008-09.
The interim ban complements a similar ban ordered by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) late last year.
21 January, 2010
Directive wraps up
new PS gifts policy
The Public Service Commission has released a Directive setting out new rules governing gift giving in the Public Service.The arrangements came into effect on 1 January and the Directive No. 22/09 outlines the ethical considerations and processes involved in exchanging gifts.
Under the terms of the Directive it is inappropriate for Public Servants to be offered, to accept or to give gifts that could be seen to affect the “independent and impartial performance of their official duties.”
The Directive warns staff of the QPS to be mindful “at all times” of their obligation to maintain the public’s confidence in the PS and not to accept gifts.
“Any gift of benefit accepted, regardless of monetary value, implies, or may imply, a relationship which may interfere with objectivity and independence,” it says.
The Directive says in most situations Public Servants should decline gifts and benefits by explaining it is against Agency policy to accept them.
The arrangements apply to all employees and Agencies in the State Public Service, including Chief Executives and Senior Officers.
It defines gifts as “tangible items of lasting value and intangible items of no lasting value (including hospitality.”
The Directive says all gifts or benefits accepted by Public Servants remain the property of the Agency unless the Agency determines it is appropriate for the recipient to retain it.
It also urges Agencies to consider how the public would perceive the Agency if it gave a gift for official purposes and says that any gift that is received or given with a retail value of over $150 must be recorded in the Agency’s gifts and benefits register.
The Directive also outlines when gifts can be retained by the employee, how to determine the value of a gift and other important information.
The Directive can be accessed at www.psc.qld.gov.au
21 January, 2010
Stairwells step up
for healthy future
Thirteen Government office buildings in the Brisbane CBD are to ensure their stairwells are open and accessible to staff to encourage them to adopt a healthier lifestyle and use the stairs more often.Acting Minister for Public Works, Peter Lawlor said the move would allow Government employees in the CBD to take the stairs instead of lifts in 2010.
“Up to 15,000 Queensland Government employees will now have the option of taking the stairs,” Mr Lawlor said
“Clearly there are the health benefits for the staff from doing more exercise, but there are also environmental benefits as reducing the usage of the lifts will use less power.”
He said the move boosted the Government’s Toward Q2 goal of making Queenslanders Australia’s healthiest people.
Mr Lawlor said the Healthy Lifestyles in Government Buildings initiative was being rolled out following a successful trial in the Executive Building on George Street.
“Statistics gathered by the Department of Public Works during the six-month trial period show the stairs were used on average 40,000 times a month,” he said.
“We’re confident that Queensland Government employees across the Brisbane CBD will respond in the same pro-active manner by stepping up and using the healthier and greener option.”
In addition to the Executive Building, fire stairs will be opened in the following buildings: Education House, 111 George Street, 33 Charlotte, 317 Edward Street, Neville Bonner, Mineral House, 80 George Street, Executive Annexe, 61 Mary Street, 63 George Street, State Health and Forestry House.
21 January, 2010
Unionists strike out
for members’ votes
Voting in elections for the Queensland Public Sector Union Executive will begin on 5 February.In the race for 9 executive positions, the positions of President, Junior Vice President and Delegates to Council are being contested.
Serving President, Vivienne Doogan is being challenged by Council Delegate, Tony Collins who said he was prompted to nominate in part due to moves to amalgamate the QPSU with the Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union (LHMU).
Mr Collins said he was worried the LHMU’s political affiliations would mean the QPSU would lose its independence and capacity to bargain if the merger went ahead.
“I am not a member of any political party,” he said. “My only interest is the welfare of members.”
General Secretary of the QPSU, Alex Scott said a closer relationship with the LHMU had benefitted members of both unions and that strengthening the relationship would be positive.
“The QPSU executive is committed to ensuring that any future moves to formalise this partnership through an amalgamation are put to a ballot of the membership, to ensure that each and every member of our union gets a say,” Mr Scott said.
“The QPSU has a proud record of standing up to all political parties including the current government and nothing will change that record.”
President, Vivienne Doogan said she would concentrate on creating a united group of members to successfully navigate through the challenges ahead and that the QPSU was committed to breaking down barriers between Public Service Unions.
“Unions are about workers coming together, as a group, to change things that we can’t change on our own,” Ms Doogan said.
Mr Collins said he would focus on issues of political independence, corporate governance and accountability.
The election is being run by the Electoral Commission Queensland and voting closes on 26 February.
Further information could be found at www.ecq.qld.gov.au
21 January, 2010
Consumers buy into
complaints report
The Office of Fair Trading has reported that it received more than 15,000 consumer complaints in 2009.Minister for Fair Trading, Peter Lawlor said this represented over 4,000 more complaints than were received in 2008.
“In most cases consumers who think they’ve been treated unfairly or ripped off discuss the issue with the business in question and try and work it out that way,” Mr Lawlor said.
“It they’re not successful the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has staff dedicated to looking into such complaint matters and it can often assist with coming to an agreement between parties.”
He said if breaches of the Fair Trading Act 1989 occurred, the matter was investigated and appropriate enforcement action was taken.
Mr Lawlor said topics of complaints topping the list for 2009 included household goods, scams, credit services and providers, car sales and real estate agents.
He said while economic conditions may have contributed to the increase in consumer complaints, businesses should still do the right thing and treat complaints seriously.
The Minister said 941 warnings and 806 infringements were issued in 2009, 97 matters were before a Court or tribunal and 67 conduct deeds were issued as were eight enforceable undertakings.
Mr Lawlor said throughout 2009, OFT investigators conducted business compliance checks on issues ranging from price scanning, product safety and security to real estate and motor dealer licence compliance.
21 January, 2010
Smart cards on the
go on Translink
The accessibility of TransLink’s go cards has been dramatically improved in recent weeks with Minster for Transport, Rachel Nolan announcing a 360th outlet came online last week.Ms Nolan said an additional 55 train stations now sold go cards, making the product available at all 123 manned stations.
She said the extra sites weren’t due to come online until March, but she had asked TransLink to “pull out all stops” to deliver them ahead of schedule.
“This means our smart card retail network is almost six times the size of any other State, allowing it to meet demand for go cards,” Ms Nolan said.
She said 34,000 go cards had been distributed over the past two weeks.
The Minister said 17 new generation ticketing machines were currently being installed at busway stations and major bus interchanges across the network.
“These machines are undergoing final testing, and by the end of this month, for the first time, customers will be able to purchase an adult go card from one,” Ms Nolan said.
“These machines will also issue paper tickets and allow customers to top up their go cards or check their travel history and balance.”
She said passengers would now be able to purchase go cards over the phone, over the internet, at retail outlets and train stations or from a ticket machine.
Ms Nolan said staff would continue to be stationed across the network to assist passengers as they returned from holidays.
21 January, 2010
Heart Foundation
takes PS pulse
The national Heart Foundation is targeting Public Service offices to promote healthier lifestyles by becoming involved in organised walking programs. National Senior Project Officer of Heart Foundation Walking, Michelle Wilson said 30 Government Departments across Australia had already signed up for the program which was based on a network of community-based walking groups aimed at encouraging people to be more active.
“In the past six months we have had over 30 new walking groups start in Government Departments across Australia,” Ms Wilson said.
“Many workplaces are encouraging staff to be more physically active and walking is a fun, free and social way to be active.”
She said volunteer Walk Organisers lead groups in their local area, and Public Servants were encouraged to become involved.
“Heart Foundation Walking Groups are a great way to meet people,” Ms Wilson said.
“Joining or starting a walking group in your area or workplace is easy and best of all it’s free.”
Ms Wilson said the Heart Foundation worked in partnership with Area Coordinators to establish walking groups in their local community.
“Area Coordinators may be from health or community centres, Councils or workplaces,” she said.
“These Area Coordinators work with the Heart Foundation to assist volunteer walk organisers to recruit walkers and establish groups.”
Ms Wilson said walk organisers were provided with resources, training and support to begin and maintain their group.
“They also receive complimentary merchandise as a ‘thank you’ for their role,” she said.
To become involved and find or start a group at your workplace, visit www.heartfoundation.org.au
21 January, 2010
Police claim win in
battle of the booze
A 10-week police crackdown on anti-social behaviour has been declared an overwhelming success.Acting Minister for Police, Andrew Fraser said since Operation Merit was introduced in November around $1.5 million had been spent on additional police patrols to crack down on drinking ‘hot spots’.
Mr Fraser said the operation had helped minimise dangerous alcohol-related behaviour and incidents.
“Operation Merit was designed to increase police presence where it’s needed most and the Queensland Police Service has advised that the operation has been a resounding success,” he said.
“There have been an additional 589 people arrested across Queensland for alcohol fuelled anti-social behaviour, with 1,415 additional charges.”
Mr Fraser said that during the operation, over 1,000 harm minimisation public orders were issued, 8,259 extra Random Breath Tests were conducted and police had visited 2,785 licensed premises and conducted 3,412 walk-throughs of licensed premises or businesses.
He said the additional funding had so far resulted in 16,000 extra hours of police patrolling.
Acting Police Commissioner, Kathy Rynders said the success of Operation Merit meant blitzes on entertainment hot spots would continue as needed throughout the year.
“Operation Merit has been very successful in seeing a decrease in violent alcohol fuelled behaviour over a period of increased police presence,” Acting Commissioner Rynders said.
“The Queensland Police will continue to target entertainment hot spots throughout the year and assess where an increased police presence will be beneficial to community safety.”
21 January, 2010
Premium treatment for
insurance loophole
Amendments to the law to ensure that duty is paid on insurance policies with overseas insurers have been announced by the Treasurer, Andrew Fraser.Mr Fraser said a recent decision by the New South Wales Court of Appeal which allowed a major company to avoid paying insurance duty on contracts entered into with overseas-based insurers, had flagged a potential issue with the law, prompting the Government to amend the legislation.
He said the law would be clarified to ensure the liability, which applied clearly to contracts with Australian insurers, could not be escaped by using offshore insurers.
The legislative changes also clarify that life insurance riders and similar products are liable for insurance duty where those products are taken out with either a life or general insurer.
Mr Fraser said that in each case, these types of insurance arrangements were liable for duty under the Stamp Act 1894.
“These changes bring Queensland insurance duty arrangements generally in line with the other States and make it clear when duty is payable so policy holders are treated consistently,” he said.
Mr Fraser said potential loopholes being exploited in the Duties Act 2001 would be closed in legislation expected to be introduced shortly.
He said changes to ensure duty was paid on insurance policies with overseas insurers came into effect earlier this year.
21 January, 2010
Campaign rings bell
on emergency alerts
A public awareness campaign has been launched to promote the new Emergency Alert phone warning system.Acting Premier, Paul Lucas said Emergency Alert could send text messages to mobile phones and voice messages to landlines to warn people of imminent emergencies such as bushfires and cyclones.
“Emergency Alert has the capacity to send 18,000 text messages and 1,000 voice messages per minute in areas at risk of serious or life-threatening events,” Mr Lucas said.
“Messages distributed through Emergency Alert will contain basic details of the threat, clear recommended actions and advice on where to go for further information.”
He said the print, radio and online advertising campaign was designed to let people know about the system and to remind them to have emergency plans prepared.
“The radio component of the advertising campaign will also be broadcast in a number of foreign languages to ensure these communities understand the new system,” Mr Lucas said,
He said Emergency Alert would not replace existing warning systems and that Emergency Services staff and volunteers would continue to engage the community during emergencies through traditional methods such as local radio broadcasts and door-knocking.
Mr Lucas said the system had undergone extensive testing to ensure it was functional and reliable.
“The Department of Community Safety has advised me that initial issues experienced in a trial at Esk during December have now been addressed and subsequent testing has gone smoothly,” he said.
Mr Lucas said the State had been working with the Federal Government and other States and Territories through the Council of Australian Governments on a nationally-consistent telecommunication warning system for a number of years.
21 January, 2010
Diversity is true blue
part of Australia Day
A survey conducted for the Commonwealth’s National Australia Day Council has revealed that 9 out of 10 Australians believe recognising Indigenous culture is an important aspect of Australia Day celebrations. Chief Executive of the NADC, Warren Pearson, said the results reflected a cultural shift in Australia.
“The survey results reflect the diversity of our nation now, the changing face of Australians and the huge shift in public understanding of Indigenous issues and growing appreciation of Aboriginal culture,” Mr Pearson said.
“What Australians are saying is not that we should recognise one thing over another, but that our national celebrations should reflect the many things that make Australia what it is.”
The survey also revealed that 89 per cent of Australians believed it was important to recognise the cultural diversity of our nation.
Mr Pearson said the sentiments were similar across all ages and demographic backgrounds, but particularly among those aged 18 to 34.
He said of those aged 18 to 34, 94 per cent said recognising Australia’s indigenous people and culture was important in celebrations compared to 88 per cent of those in the 50+ age bracket, he said.
“Similarly, 95 per cent of the younger generations supported the recognition of cultural diversity compared to 84 per cent of the older generation,” Mr Pearson said.
The survey also revealed that Australians perceived themselves as being laid back and easy going, with 44 per cent using terms such as “casual” and “relaxed” to describe their fellow country men and women.
Mr Pearson said almost half of all Australians - 44 per cent - believed reflecting on the nation’s past was the most important thing to think about on Australia Day, while 41 per cent said they looked to the future. A minority – 13 per cent – said the most important thing to consider was the present time, with the remainder being uncertain.
“It shows that we’re thinking about where we’ve come from and how we can make Australia a better place, rather than just enjoying the public holiday,” Mr Pearson said.
“Australia Day is the day we come together as a nation to celebrate Australia and being Australian.
“It’s wonderful that Australians see themselves as a united people made up of a rich mix of cultures and heritage and they want to celebrate their place in that mix.
“Australia Day means many different things to different people and now we’re seeing how much people value the many different influences which make Australia great.”
He said for more information about Australia Day events people could visit www.australiaday.org.au
21 January, 2010
Shooters bore in
on feral pigs
A cull of feral pigs in the Lakefield National Park near Laura in the Cape has seen 1,000 killed to protect local ecosystems and biodiversity.Acting Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Andrew Fraser said feral pigs could destroy precious ecosystems and biodiversity if left unchecked.
“Not only do they prey on native ground-dwelling frogs and eggs from turtles and freshwater crocodiles, they can significantly disturb waterway corridors, and have the potential to carry exotic diseases,” Mr Fraser said.
“If the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) hadn’t removed the pigs from this park, their numbers may have multiplied to around 5,000 in as little as 12 months.”
He said that after four years of aerial shoots in Lakefield, feral pig numbers had declined.
“On the first shoot well over 100 large boars – which do the most damage – were killed, but on this recent shoot only about 20 of these very large males were terminated,” Mr Fraser said.
“The high reproductive rate and mobility of this species means control needs to be an annual event.”
The Minister said shoots and targeted pest control programs were a critical part of the State Government’s management of Queensland’s protected areas.
“Without them, we’d be overrun with introduced species – not just pigs, but feral goats, cats, dogs, cattle and camels,” he said.
Mr Fraser urged landowners to take “reasonable steps” to keep land free of feral pigs and other Class 2 declared pests.
21 January, 2010
Raised glass to get
toast treatment
The windows in high-rise buildings are set to become safer and more secure following a national endorsement of a glass test proposed by the Queensland Government.Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, Stirling Hinchliffe said the State Government had successfully campaigned for a national safety upgrade of new window panes for high-rise buildings.
Mr Hinchliffe said that over recent years glass had spontaneously fallen from high-rise buildings in Brisbane’s CBD.
He said a new test designed to detect any flaws before the glass was installed would be implemented across Australia.
“Late last year the Australian Building Codes Board agreed to implement a national test for impurities in new toughened glass panes by heat soaking them,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
He said that from 1 May 2010 the new test for high-rise glass window panes would be phased in over a 12-month period to allow the industry to adjust.
“In simple terms it involves heat soaking the glass for two hours at 280 degrees Celsius to see whether it will break,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“Glass for windows in high-rises must already be manufactured to an Australian Standard but from 1 May toughened glass will also be heat soaked to further protect the public.”
The Minister said the Australian Building Code would be amended to include the new test provisions which will apply to all windows more than five metres above the floor or ground level. It will become mandatory in May 2011.
He said it was important to note the test would not fix glass failure problems for existing buildings.
“It’s not realistic to expect that all glass in older buildings could be replaced due to the massive costs involved,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“However, those responsible for existing buildings should regularly inspect existing glass and where failures have occurred or are likely to occur, suitable protection measures should be provided.”
21 January, 2010
Fine result from
nuisance trial
A 12-month trial of on-the-spot fines for public nuisance offences has been hailed a success by Queensland Police.The Government will now order an independent study before considering rolling the trial out further.
Acting Minister for Police, Andrew Fraser said the trial had given police in the South Brisbane and Townsville districts the ability to issue on-the-spot fines for a range of public nuisance offences.
“The trial was aimed at less paperwork and more policing - dealing with nuisance offences in a way that doesn’t tie up police and allows them to focus on the big issues of community safety,” Mr Fraser said.
“The South Brisbane and Townsville districts were selected for the trial in order to assess the effectiveness of this approach in dynamic metropolitan and regional policing environments.”
During the trial, police issued on-the-spot fines for 1,078 public nuisance offences in Townsville and 704 public nuisance offences in South Brisbane.
As part of the new approach, urinating in public was designated as a specific public nuisance offence attracting a $100 on-the-spot fine.
Police were also able to issue tickets and on-the-spot fines, ranging from $100 to $400 depending on the offence, for people who obstructed officers or disobeyed a direction in relation to public nuisance offences.
Acting Police Commissioner, Kathy Rynders said the trial meant police spent less time on Court work.
“This is an alternative to existing powers to arrest an offender and issue a notice to appear in Court, where heavier fines can be imposed depending on the circumstances of the offence,” Acting Commissioner Rynders said.
The introduction of infringement tickets and on-the-spot fines was recommended in a Crime and Misconduct Commission report on Queensland’s public nuisance offences.
21 January, 2010
Tag-along tours to
drive island tourism
Moves to introduce compulsory tag-along-tours for four wheel drive hire vehicles on Fraser Island have been announced by the Acting Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Andrew Fraser.Mr Fraser said that by 30 June 2010, 4WD hire companies will be required to provide an experienced driver to lead other 4WD vehicles on tours of the island.
He said the tag-along-tours aimed to improve safety and increase environmental protection on the Island and driver guides must be accredited by Queensland Transport by 30 November 2010.
“We want to see drivers on Fraser driving carefully, as Fraser Island is a natural habitat for several important species, such as waders and other shorebirds, and an island of unique sand dune systems,” Mr Fraser said.
“Combined with a raft of other hire vehicle restrictions being instituted by the Government, it [the tours] should significantly reduce the risk of serious accidents occurring on the island.”
He said the tag-alongs could also result in improved driver competency and better environmental outcomes.
Mr Fraser said the Island enjoyed a wonderful reputation as a Mecca for international backpackers, which fed millions of dollars into the State’s economy.
Between 2003 and 2009 there were 42 serious accidents on Fraser Island, almost 60 per cent or which involved foreign drivers.
Mr Fraser said the Government was expediting the process to introduce tag-along tours on Fraser Island and had been working with industry for several months.
“We’re ensuring that tag-along arrangements are in place as soon as possible.”
He said after industry consultation on draft Agreements, the Department of Environment and Resource Management had issued 4WD hire operators with commercial activity agreements to govern tag-along-tour operations.
“Operators will need to have these Agreements in place by 31 January 2010 and to be operating using a tag-along arrangement by 30 June, 2010,” Mr Fraser said.
Tag-along arrangements will apply to 4WD hire companies who sell seats to tourists as part of a tour.
21 January, 2010
TransLink catches
superbus for trial
A new-generation superbus capable of carrying 112 passengers has gone on trial with the TransLink bus fleet.Minister for Transport, Rachel Nolan said the superbus was the newest and highest capacity bus in the TransLink fleet.
Ms Nolan said the bus was the first of two new $750,000, low-emission diesel buses and featured larger doors and extra go card readers.
“The first of two new superbuses will be trialled throughout Logan and Brisbane on South East Busway route 555 (Loganholme-Brisbane City) by Clarks Logan City Bus Service,” she said.
“The new buses will also be trialled at special events in the near future to improve loading and passenger movements, and reduce dwell times.”
The Volvo model superbus can carry around 20 more passengers than existing articulated buses, which hold about 90 people.
“These buses are a first for south east Queensland,” Ms Nolan said.
“They are the same length as the current articulated buses but have a smaller carbon footprint per passenger.
“Their internal design means there will be fewer seats up front and more standing space which allows these buses to carry more people.”
She said the new design was expected to improve peak thoroughfare and reduce congestion.
The second superbus is expected to be on the road in the coming months.
21 January, 2010
Broadcaster airs
new Brisbane HQ
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation has unveiled concept designs for its new Queensland headquarters at South Bank, replacing the former Toowong site which was abandoned in 2006 for health and safety reasons.The facility will be state-of-the-art and capable of meeting the ABC’s expanding technological and operating requirements.
Managing Director of the ABC, Mark Scott said the headquarters would be approximately 15,500 square metres and house up to 450 ABC staff and members of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
Mr Scott said the designs demonstrated the ABC’s commitment to providing staff with a sustainable, modern and healthy working environment.
The ABC abandoned its previous headquarters at Toowong following the detection of a cancer cluster.
ABC staff have since been re-located to eight different sites across Brisbane.
“I would once again like to thank Brisbane staff for their resilience and for enduring the disruption caused by the relocation,” Mr Scott said.
“I am very pleased that we can now work towards building an environmentally sustainable broadcasting hub that will allow Brisbane to function at its full potential.”
Unveiling the concept design, the Premier, Anna Bligh said she was pleased to announce that a development lease had been granted to the ABC for the project.
“On completion, the ABC will be located in the cultural hub of Brisbane, where its neighbours will include the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Griffith University and the Queensland Conservatorium of Music,” Ms Bligh said.
The building is scheduled to be completed in late 2011 or early 2012.
21 January, 2010
Tourism package
is just the ticket
A new tourism stimulus package is to be rolled out over the next six months as part of the State’s Tourism Action Plan. Minister for Tourism, Peter Lawlor said the Action Plan was supported by $36 million in funding and that the next six months would see the delivery of over $7 million worth of tourism marketing initiatives.
“This will add to the $2.8 million that has already been invested in domestic and international marketing initiatives over the last six months,” Mr Lawlor said.
He said the key markets targeted in the Plan included Tropical North Queensland, the Whitsundays, Fraser Coast, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Brisbane.
Mr Lawlor said the stimulus package included more than $1 million to grow the China market, nearly $700,000 to encourage more New Zealanders to visit Queensland and more than $1.9 million to develop tourism opportunities from major business, sporting and cultural events.
He said Tourism Queensland (TQ) would manage the marketing activities over the next six months and $3.6 million had been earmarked for domestic marketing to encourage more Australians to holiday in Queensland.
“TQ is working on a series of hard-hitting tactical campaigns which will offer great deals aimed at encouraging Australians to holiday in Queensland,” Mr Lawlor said.
“This was a highly successful tactic employed in 2009, with campaigns such as Unreal Deals and Hey, Hey it’s Queensland, and one we will continue into 2010 as the economy heads towards recovery.”
The Minister said Tourism Queensland would work with the Queensland Events Corporation and key stakeholders to maximise tourism opportunities from events such as the forthcoming Valentino Exhibition at the Gallery of Modern Art.
21 January, 2010
Poll choice imminent
The winning choice in the State-wide poll to choose a piece of public art for the new park at Kangaroo Point will be announced at the opening of the park on 24 January.
The two contenders were Irish artist Alex Pentek’s giant kangaroo, complete with a joey in its pouch, and United Kingdom artist Wolfgang Buttress’ soaring Venus Rising that stretches more than 30 metres into the sky.
Women’s Day theme
The theme for International Women’s Day events held on 8 March in Queensland this year will be Women Leading the Way.
Minister for Women, Karen Struthers said the theme for the celebrations provided an opportunity to congratulate women and reflect on the leadership roles they play in their daily lives.
The Office for Women is to make a range of resources available, including a commemorative poster and lapel ribbons, to help with community celebrations.
Super clinic for Redcliffe
A GP Super Clinic to be built on the grounds of the Redcliffe Hospital will house multidisciplinary teams of health professionals to boost healthcare and help address increasing levels of chronic disease in the area.
Construction of the clinic is on track to start in the first half of this year - with the clinic due to open for business in 2011.
Following the signing of a contract between the Redcliffe Hospital Foundation and Queensland Health for the purchase of the land earlier this year, approval of the clinic’s Development Application is now pending.
New roo Regs
Significant fines are now in place as a penalty for trading meat from kangaroos who have suffered body shots instead of being killed humanely by a shot to the head.
New regulations, which took effect on 1 January, are expected to help to re-open the lucrative Russian market which was temporarily suspended in August last year.
The regulations make it unlawful to sell or buy kangaroos that have not been killed by clean shots to the head.
The Department of Environment and Resource Management will work with Safe Food Production Queensland to ensure compliance.
Resealing making inroads
The Federal and State Governments have joined forces with four regional Councils to ensure the $8 million resealing of 405 kilometres of road in south west Queensland is completed as quickly as possible.
The resealing program is set to begin in March and continue through until April/May, weather permitting.
Minister for Main Roads, Craig Wallace said the cost of establishing contractors in more remote areas was substantial and that Local Government saved money by having the Department of Transport and Main Roads manage the tender process.
Condamine reference panel announced
A new Community Reference Panel for the Central Condamine Region has been announced.
The Panel will play a role in shaping a draft amendment to the Condamine and Balonne Water Resource Plan which is expected to be released for public review in mid-2010.
It will work with officers from the Department of Environment and Resource Management to provide community input on the issue.
New ambulances
Two new ambulances have been delivered to the Beaudesert and Canungra’s Ambulance Service.
Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Services, Peta-Kaye Croft handed over the new Mercedes Sprinter 318 vehicles.
“These vehicles will allow paramedics to better assist the community in times of emergency - they’re a win for paramedics and a win for the community,” Ms Croft said.
