SearchArchives for September 2009
24 September, 2009Shake-up Directive
to smooth moves
A new Directive covering employment arrangements for staff affected by business or workforce changes in the PS has been issued by the Public Service Commission.Entitled Employment Arrangements Following Workplace Change, the Directive outlines arrangements that support the changing needs of the Queensland Public Service while looking after the job security of PS employees.
The Directive applies to tenured Public Service employees including senior executives and those registered for service-wide deployment.
It says Chief Executives have the responsibility to manage their workforce arrangements and might resort to job redesign, job reclassification, employee transfer or restructuring at the local or organisational level to do so effectively.
It says employees affected by new workforce arrangements remain tenured employees of their Agency and are expected to work flexibly to implement the new arrangements.
“Employees must be prepared, for example, to implement changes to their existing role, transfer to a different role if required and to participate in necessary developmental activities,” the Directive says.
It says every effort must be made to ensure they do not lose their jobs.
“Tenured staff must not be forced into unemployment other than in exceptional circumstances.
“Agencies must work actively with employees affected by new workforce arrangements to secure their ongoing tenure.”
It says Agencies are to work together to meet the Government’s commitment to employment security for its employees.
The Directive requires employees who need placement to try to arrange one themselves.
“Employees requiring placement should support their own employment security by
proactively searching and applying for advertised permanent roles at level.”
It says staff redeployed to a lower level classification must be paid at the top pay point of the new classification.
“In addition, …. the employee is entitled, for a period of 12 months following redeployment, to be paid the salary and allowances applicable to the substantive role which they held prior to redeployment.”
It says any staff member moved to a new location under these arrangements would be entitled to relocation expenses.
“The Public Service workforce must be flexible and mobile if Agencies are to respond
to the challenges of constant change within their business environments,” the Directive says.
“New workforce arrangements must be reasonable and achievable.”
The Directive is available at www.psc.qld.gov.au
24 September, 2009
Honours on offer
in PS awards
The Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA) has announced the finalists in its Queensland Public Sector Excellence Awards.The inaugural awards, which celebrate 150 years of public administration and management in Queensland, have attracted the interest of hundreds of public sector individuals and teams from across the State.
Chief Executive of IPAA Queensland, Peter Rumph said the nominations came from as far away as Mackay, Townsville, Quilpie and Cairns, with a number of projects exemplifying innovation, initiative and best practice.
“The calibre and scope of the nominations was simply outstanding with projects promoting strong cross-government relations backed up with demonstrated measureable results,” Mr Rumph said.
“The incredible amount of nominations received in the first year is testament to the significant number of individuals, teams and projects making a difference right across the State.”
He said the individuals and projects recognised as finalists had come from professional fields as varied as transport, health, policy and indigenous affairs.
The winners of the six award categories will be announced at a prestigious awards night to be held on Friday, 9 October at the recently restored Old Government House in Brisbane.
“Each and every project has shown true dedication from both individuals and teams and demonstrate passion, commitment and of course, excellence through some amazing achievements,” Mr Rumph said.
The finalists are:
Public Sector Professional of the Year:
Guillermo (Bill) Capati Gold Coast Water, Gold Coast ;
Jason Deller Moreton Bay Regional Council, Moreton Bay;
Monica James Quilpie Shire Council, Quilpie;
Daryl Ross Logan City Council, Logan.
Young Leader of the Year:
Belinda Chapman Brisbane City Council, Brisbane;
Adam Francis Energex, Brisbane;
Renata Lee Smart Service Queensland, Department of Public Works, Brisbane;
Tara Waller Brisbane City Council, Brisbane.
Best Practice in State Government:
Brisbane Airport Task Force
Brisbane Airport Task Force, Department of Transport and Main Roads ;
Burke Developmental Road Project
Burke Alliance, Roadtek, Department of Transport and Main Roads;
Carbon Outlook Project
Carbon Outlook Team,Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation;
Fortitude Valley Station Refurbishment
Program Delivery Services, QR Passenger Pty Ltd;
Indigenous Driver Licensing Unit
Indigenous Driver Licensing Unit, Department of Transport and Main Roads;
Rapid Development of Molecular Assays for Swine Flu
Queensland Paediatric Infectious Diseases Lab, Queensland Health.
Best Practice in Federal Government:
Development of the 'Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report 2009'
Strategic Outlook Group, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority;
Workplace Health Strategy
Corporate Services, Centrelink;
Best Practice in Local Government:
Bold Future
Bold Future Business Owners and Operational Project Group, Gold Coast City Council;
Excellence in CEO Communication
Internal Communication Team, Brisbane City Council;
Gold Coast Waterfuture 2009 Strategy
Gold Coast Water Planning Services, Gold Coast City Council;
Logan Water Starting-on-the-Job
Logan Water SOTJ Implementation Team, Logan City Council;
Mackay Water Recycling Project
Mackay Water Recycling Unit, Mackay Regional Council;
More Libraries, More Choice and Beyond
Learning Communities Branch, Sunshine Coast Regional Council;
Water Industry Worker – Civil
Ipswich Water, Ipswich City Council.
24 September, 2009
QFleet steps on the gas
Cutting its carbon dioxide emissions by 15 per cent more than a year ahead of schedule has earned QFleet the enthusiastic congratulations of Minister for Public Works, Robert Schwarten.Mr Schwarten described the achievement as “tremendous.”
“This is in keeping with the Government’s Toward Q2 action plan ambitions to reduce Queensland’s carbon footprint by one third through reduced car and electricity use,” Mr Schwarten said.
QFleet is now fully committed to achieving the next target of 25 per cent by 2012.
“QFleet has moved to ensuring ‘green’ vehicles are on the fleet but the challenge in meeting the 2012 target is moving the fleet to ‘greener’ vehicles again,” he said.
A key strategy in achieving the 15 per cent reduction had been the introduction of minimum emission standards for vehicles, based on the greenhouse ratings from the Australian Government’s Green Vehicle Guide.
“The greenhouse ratings differentiate vehicles based on their carbon dioxide emissions – that is, the higher the rating, the lower the emissions,” Mr Schwarten said.
“The action plan sets the minimum ratings of 5.5 for QFleet’s passenger vehicles and 3.5 for its light commercial vehicles.”
By the end of July, 88.4 per cent of the passenger fleet and 96.8 per cent of the light commercial fleet were compliant with the standards.
“As the Action Plan implementation continues, I expect the Government’s fleet profile to have increased numbers of hybrid, small and light vehicles and vehicles with advanced engine technology such as diesel engine passenger cars,” the Minister said.
24 September, 2009
Road safety campaign
crashes through
An online road safety campaign developed by the Department of Transport has been entered in the 2009 Australian Marketing Institute Awards for Excellence.The campaign, Share My Story, in which road crash victims tell their stories, had previously won two State awards in the Social Marketing and the Multimedia and Interactive categories.
Minister for Transport, Rachel Nolan said the awards not only acknowledged the success of the campaign but demonstrated that Queenslanders wanted to take road safety into their own hands.
"The stories and testimonials on the website prove that many Queenslanders have already changed their dangerous driving behaviour," Ms Nolan said.
"The stories are not inventions of advertising agencies or the media – they are true, powerful stories and will hopefully make everyone think about the decisions they make every time they get behind the wheel.”
The annual awards highlighted those organisations which have achieved extraordinary success in marketing and communications, recognising innovation and creativity as well as whether a campaign had achieved results.
Share My Story, launched in January, was a world first in road safety advertising and placed road safety into the hands of the Queensland community through an on-line social networking website where Queenslanders were encouraged to share their experiences with road crashes.
The campaign comprised a social networking website and television, press and online advertising, highlighting the real impact and consequences road crashes have on friends, family and the wider community.
The Share My Story campaign will now progress to the national Australian Marketing Institute Awards for Excellence, announced on 28 October in Sydney.
24 September, 2009
Paper lobbed at
lobbyist pay
The Department of the Premier and Cabinet has released an issues paper on a proposal to ban the payment of success fees to lobbyists.Queenslanders are invited to have their say.
The paper is the result of community concern about success fees paid to lobbyists after the media reported large fees being paid to some former Government Ministers, now lobbyists, who were advising successful tenderers for large Government contracts.
The Government established a Register of Lobbyists earlier this year and implemented the Queensland Contact with Lobbyists Code, which provided that professional lobbyists who wished to lobby Government representatives must be listed on the Register.
Since it began, the Code has been amended to clarify that information about whether a lobbyist is paid a success fee must be contained on the Register of Lobbyists.
The Government has also banned lobbyists from serving on State Government boards and has implemented prohibitions around post-separation employment.
During their quarantine periods ex-Ministers, Parliamentary Secretaries, Ministerial staff and senior Public Servants must not lobby, advocate or have business meetings with members of the Government or Public Service on any matters in which they have had official dealings.
The relevant quarantine period for Ministers is two years, while the quarantine period for Parliamentary Secretaries, senior Public Servants and Ministerial staff is 18 months.
In order to send the very clear signal that business does not have to pay lobbyists fees to succeed with the State Government, the Government is proposing to ban success fees to lobbyists where the lobbyist is advising in relation to the award of a Government contract.
The proposed legislative ban would be based on the Canadian Lobbying Act, which bans the use of contingent fees (fees which are in whole or part contingent on the outcome of lobbying) with consultant lobbyists.
Under this model, both the payment of contingent fees by corporations to consultant lobbyists and the receipt of contingency fees by consultant lobbyists from corporations are banned.
24 September, 2009
Penalty clampdown
for more clamps
Officers of the State Penalties Enforcement Registry (SPER) have been granted greater powers to locate and clamp the wheels of vehicles belonging to fine dodgers.Attorney-General, Cameron Dick said the officers now had the right to enter, search and acquire information in their pursuit of the vehicles.
The Minister said the State Penalties Enforcement and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2009 includes a range of offences for activities that attempt to avoid, frustrate or interfere with the clamping, seizure and sale processes.
“The community expects that people who receive a fine for breaking the law will repay their debt in full,” Mr Dick said.
“It is critical to preserving public confidence in the law and maintaining the integrity of fines as a deterrent.”
He said offenders whose fines are referred to SPER and remain unpaid have numerous ways to pay their debt, including individual installment plans tailored to their financial circumstances
“So there is no excuse for those who continue to do the wrong thing,” Mr Dick said.
“The amendments will also authorise SPER to suspend driver licences for any unpaid fine, not just those imposed for motor vehicle offences.
The tough new laws would also strengthen SPER’s seizure and sale powers.
“The expansion of driver licence suspensions will apply to all debt defaulters who refuse to enter into compliance arrangements, but the power to clamp, seize and sell vehicles will be limited to those who owe $5,000 or more,” he said.
“They will also authorise the use of SMS technology to send messages to fine defaulters via their mobile phones, without requiring consent.”
This would allow SPER to send reminders and warnings to debtors in appropriate circumstances, such as when their installment plans were in default or enforcement action is imminent, including the suspension of driver licences.
24 September, 2009
Police Memorial Day is
Blue Ribbon event
Police Remembrance Day will be marked by tributes from Police Commissioner, Bob Atkinson and Minister for Police, Neil Roberts to the 137 Queensland Police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.Described by Commissioner Atkinson as the most significant day in the policing calendar, members of the Queensland Police Service, family, friends and the community will pay their respects at candlelight vigils, marches and memorial services.
“Every police officer swears an oath to protect and serve the people of Queensland,” Commissioner Atkinson said.
“Unfortunately the protection of our rights and freedom is not without risk. No matter how well trained or equipped an officer may be, sadly there will be times when the forces of fate conspire against us and an officer’s life is lost.”
Mr Roberts said it would be his first Police Remembrance Day as Minister for Police.
“Every day, in my discussions with the Commissioner, I am made aware of the dangers and high risk situations police officers experience,” Mr Roberts said.
“It is important the community understands that being a police officer is a tough job that takes courage and a real commitment to community safety.”
Commissioner Atkinson said the QPS was fortunate that no new names had been added to the Queensland Remembrance Day list for the past two years.
24 September, 2009
Hostels feel heat
over fire safety
Budget accommodation providers in Brisbane have been put on notice to comply with fire safety regulations or face hefty fines.The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) has launched the crackdown which targets illegal operators flouting fire safety procedures and allowing overcrowding of their premises.
Minister for Police, Corrective Services and Emergency Services, Neil Roberts said fire safety standards for budget accommodation in Queensland were some of the toughest in the country following the Childers tragedy in 2000, and owners who failed to comply could face maximum fines of between $10,000 to $200,000 and possible imprisonment.
“These fire safety standards apply to buildings which have six or more people who are not related, such as students or backpackers, and share access to a bathroom or sanitary facilities,” Mr Roberts said.
“Any buildings which are deemed as budget accommodation and do not comply with the fire safety standards must reduce their occupancy numbers to less than six persons until all safety standards are met.”
The Minister said QFRS officers continued to identify and inspect new, illegal and unregistered student and backpacker accommodation buildings in Brisbane and this year had issued 55 requisitions to comply with fire safety standards.
“QFRS has an inspection program in place where officers identify and inspect premises to ensure compliance with fire safety standards as part of their daily duties. This program involves working with other agencies such as Local Councils to ensure properties are identified and inspected for safety,” Mr Roberts said.
QFRS officers across the State had carried out 1,258 inspections on 664 buildings since January 2007. A total of 292 requisitions have been issued to reduce numbers to less than six people until fire safety standards are met since January 2007 with 37 budget accommodation operators successfully prosecuted in this period.
QFRS Assistant Commissioner for Community Safety and Training, Mark Roche said while the majority of property owners complied after they were issued with requisitions a number of operators continued to blatantly ignore warnings or failed to comply.
24 September, 2009
Workplace safety is
work in progress
A new program to reduce workplace deaths and injuries has been unveiled to industry and union leaders by the Minister for Industrial Relations, Cameron Dick. Mr Dick said Zero Harm at Work aims to reduce the shocking number of deaths and injuries in Queensland workplaces.
“Ensuring safety in the workplace is one of the most important challenges facing industry in Queensland,” Mr Dick said.
“Every year around 100 Queenslanders are killed at work and 30,000 people suffer serious injuries or work related diseases.
He said the cost to our State was more than $5 billion a year.
“My Government wants to turn these shocking statistics around, to make it clear that workplace health and safety is everyone’s business,” he said.
“We are asking our top business leaders, as well as union and public sector leaders, to join a leadership forum and drive positive workplace health and safety changes in their organisations.”
Mr Dick said while industry is making progress in the area of workplace health and safety, there was still an urgent need for change, to prevent death and injury in Queensland workplaces.
“Around 35 organisations have signed up already to the leadership forum after a pilot forum for the construction industry was held earlier this year,” he said.
“The Zero Harm at Work policy not only needs to be adopted by companies – but also needs to be made clear to employees, suppliers, contractors and industry partners, that it is the expectation for anyone who plays a part in the business.”
24 September, 2009
Crab scientist comes
out of his shell
A scientist with the Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries (QPIF) who started out as a prawn biologist 29 years ago has admitted he has never actually done any research work with prawns. Ian Brown has had his achievements highlighted by the Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland, Tim Mulherin who said it was a real love of the job that saw him stay with the same employer for nearly 30 years.
Mr Mulherin said Dr Brown had joined QPIF in 1980 and had occupied the same office at Deception Bay’s Southern Fisheries Centre ever since.
“In that time Dr Brown has been through several Departmental name changes and seen many Ministers and colleagues come and go, but he’s still here,” Mr Mulherin said.
“One area where he has made his presence felt is in the spanner crab fishery.”
The Minister said that when Mr Brown arrived, there was a new fishery starting up for a seafood oddity called spanner crabs and few people knew anything about them.
“Now we have a management process that is considered one of the best models in the world for this sort of fishery,’ he said.
“It was the first fishery in Queensland to have adopted output-controlled management, where the harvest is restricted directly (with a total allowable catch or TAC) rather than indirectly by reducing catching efficiency.”
Many in the industry had not wanted to go down that track, but the result had been a thriving, viable spanner crab resource and a sustainable fishery.
“I’m proud of the valuable work Dr Brown has done in developing a viable industry and for remaining loyal to QPIF for almost three decades.”
Dr Brown said from an early age he was fascinated by the sea and the curiosities that wash up from the deep on to the beach.
24 September, 2009
Holiday warning as
parks in overdrive
Visitors to Queensland’s parks and forests during the school holidays have been advised to take precautions.Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Kate Jones said there had been a number of recent incidents involving walkers going missing or suffering snake bites.
“It’s particularly important that campers and day visitors refrain from feeding wildlife,” Ms Jones said.
“Human foods may be harmful and deprive animals of nutrients which only their natural foods provide.”
She warned that an overlap between the dingo pup rearing season and the holiday camping period on Fraser Island could mean an increase in human-dingo encounters.
“It’s important that visitors and residents do not feed or interact with dingoes for both their own and the dingo’s safety,” she said.
With the warmer weather, snakes were more active, especially males searching for mates.
“When hiking, always stay on formed paths or tracks so that you can see and avoid snakes, always wear protective clothing such as covered shoes and trousers, and carry a torch at night so that you can see where you’re going,” Ms Jones said.
“In the unlikely event of being bitten by a snake, apply a pressure immobilisation bandage, avoid moving the patient and seek medical attention immediately.”
The Minister said that other basic safety tips for bush walkers were not to walk alone; stay on the tracks; take a backpack with wet weather gear, hat, sunscreen and sufficient food, water and a torch; plan walking time and wear comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes.
24 September, 2009
Waterway policy
in the pipeline
Public comment has been invited on a Draft State Planning Policy for Healthy Waters.Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Kate Jones said the new policy would protect the ecological health of Queensland’s waterways by minimising pollution from urban storm water.
“Last month’s release of the draft State Coastal Plan dealing with projected sea level rises and future development along our coastline is a perfect example of the Government’s resolve to protect our treasured landscape and environment from high population growth and the impacts of climate change,” Ms Jones said.
“Our sensible planning agenda doesn’t stop there. Next cab off the rank is a stronger planning regime to help cleanse our waterways, specifically targeting urban development, storm water quality and waste water.
She said many waterways had become degraded, in part, due to inappropriate urban development over many years.
“We need to arm councils with development assessment processes strong enough to stop inappropriate or harmful development from proceeding,” Ms Jones said.
The draft policy aimed to ensure that urban development was planned, designed, constructed, and operated to better manage the health of our waterways under the Integrated Planning Act 1997.
“It improves three water quality policy areas - urban storm water quality in new suburbs and commercial and industrial precincts, waste water discharge in small scale developments and the design and management of urban lakes,” she said.
“This will result in better regional and local planning practices and a new development assessment code to guide decisions about development affecting waterway health.”
Under the final policy, development applications would need to show how developers had adopted water-sensitive urban design principles.
Ms Jones said the draft SPP would be open for comment until 30 November. It is now available at www.derm.qld.gov.au
24 September, 2009
University union to
put new laws to test
Queensland Universities could be among the first workplaces in Australia to put the new ‘Fair Work Australia’ laws to the test as its new union works to negotiate collective agreements for university staff.The new organisation, the University Staff Union, covers staff from a diverse range of occupations who are the backbone of university campuses, including administration and support, as well as lab technicians and library staff.
A spokesperson for the USU, Alex Scott said the union would not hesitate to test the new legislation to its limits to ensure university professional and general staff secured fair and reasonable collective agreements.
Mr Scott said the University Staff Union was created following a vote by professional and general staff representatives from the ASU, LHMU and QPSU.
“The new University Staff Union is taking a strong, united approach to create better lives for all professional and general university staff,” Mr Scott said.
“Across the USU we are working together to improve job security and ensure fair and reasonable collective agreements.”
24 September, 2009
Joint assault to
beat violence
A joint effort to reduce violence against women has been announced by Minister for Community Services and Women, Karen Struthers and Attorney-General, Cameron Dick. The two Ministers made the commitment at the first meeting of the Ministerial Council on a National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children.
Ms Struthers said that over the past five years there had been up to 60 domestic violence-related deaths in Queensland.
“We’ve simply got to turn those statistics around. We need to bring domestic violence out from behind closed doors and deal with it,” Ms Struthers said.
“We want every State and Territory to get behind a national plan. We need to work together. We owe it to our sons and daughters.”
Ms Struthers said statistics relating to domestic and family violence in Indigenous communities were disturbing.
“Indigenous women are 35 times more likely to be hospitalised due to family violence than any other Australian women. We must address this as a top priority.”
The draft national plan would build on the Bligh Government’s recently-released five-year strategy to tackle domestic violence in Queensland.
“It’s a ground-breaking strategy and the first whole-of-government response to domestic and family violence in Queensland,” she said.
“It includes the new Death Review Panel – a team of experts who will investigate all domestic violence related deaths in Queensland over the past five years.”
She said there would also be a review of the Domestic Violence and Family Violence Protection Act so that it truly reflected the current needs of women and children.
Mr Dick said Agencies and Departments within Government and across all Australian jurisdictions need to work together to tackle the issue.
“The initial step would involve a national registration system for all domestic violence orders, which is on the Standing Committee Attorneys-General agenda,” Mr Dick said.
24 September, 2009
Review takes plunge
on pool safety
The toughest pool safety review in 20 years is to lead to new safety regulations being introduced in Queensland on the first day of summer this year.Acting Premier Paul Lucas said the first stage of the new requirements would be in place on 1 December with follow-up regulations scheduled to be introduced in late 2010.
Mr Lucas said the new regulations would be implemented in two stages so current pool owners and the industry would have time to adjust.
“Stage one will apply immediately to all new residential swimming pools from December 1,” Mr Lucas said.
“This will mean all new pools must meet the latest pool fencing standards, with clear and strict non-climbable zones above and adjacent to the fence.”
A more comprehensive second stage would follow a year later and all affected Queensland pools would meet the new pool safety standards within five years, or sooner if sold or leased first.
One of the key changes in the second stage would be mandatory safety inspections before a property with a pool is sold or leased with inspections expected to cost between $90 and $130.
“These point-of-sale or lease inspections were found by the expert committee to be more closely targeted to key risk periods than regular cyclic inspections,” Mr Lucas said.
“This is because children are at a greater risk of drowning or immersion injury in the first six months of moving to a property with a pool.”
He said the approach not only targeted this risky period, it provided real incentives for pool owners to comply and was designed to help cut the need for Councils to pursue breaches through the courts.
Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, Stirling Hinchliffe said the Government would have a register of newly licensed pool safety inspectors so that property owners could easily obtain an inspection. Those inspections will be provided by either Local Councils or private inspectors.
24 September, 2009
Seniors strategy
is new age idea
A discussion paper has been released on a new seniors strategy and action plan.Minister for Community Services, Karen Struthers said the experience and wisdom of seniors had helped shape Queensland.
“It’s partly because of their dedication and drive that we’re in such great shape today and in tough economic times their contribution is more important than ever before,” Ms Struthers said.
“The Government wants to see action on a strategy for seniors. We want to support seniors so they can continue to enrich their own lives and the lives of everyday Queenslanders.”
Ms Struthers said she was particularly keen to hear from Indigenous seniors.
“They have to deal with a lot more health, well-being, economic and social challenges than non-Indigenous seniors,” she said.
The discussion paper would be open for consultation until 4 December.
The Minister said the Government was investing more than $190 million this year on services and programs to support seniors. Queensland’s concessions for seniors were among the most comprehensive in the country.
“Some 45 per cent of tenants in social housing are seniors. There are more than 24,500 households in social housing where the main tenant is 55 years or older, and that’s another reason why we’re rolling out more than 4,000 new social housing dwellings for seniors and others who need a helping hand,” she said.
“It’s a win for workers in the local building industry and a win for people who need a roof over their head. It means jobs and job security and it couldn’t have come at a better time,” Ms Struthers said.
24 September, 2009
Population increase
Queensland’s population grew by 2.6 per cent for the year ending March 2009, the Australian Bureau of Statistics said. This compared to a national growth of 2.1 per cent.
The state was behind Western Australia at 3.1 per cent and ahead of third placed Northern Territory at 2.2 per cent.
Queensland and Western Australia gained the most people through net interstate migration from other States and Territories (20,000 and 5,900 people respectively).
Queensland’s population now stands at 4,380,000.
Trading hours on hold
Applications by pubs and clubs seeking to stay open after midnight have been put on hold.
Premier, Anna Bligh said the move was part of an attempt to crack down on alcohol-fuelled violence.
The moratorium would remain in place for the next year, pending the outcome of a Parliamentary Inquiry into alcohol-related violence.
It would also be retrospective, affecting about 127 applications currently going through the system.
More electric power
Unsafe electrical equipment can now be subject to immediate recall under new laws.
Minister for Industrial Relations, Cameron Dick said the amendments would allow the Government to order a mandatory recall notice if there was evidence a product on the market posed a risk to the community.
“If Queensland’s Electrical Safety Office becomes aware that there is a potentially dangerous product on the market, as the responsible Minister I will now have the power to ensure it can be recalled immediately to avoid death and injury,” Mr Dick said.
“Currently, designers, manufacturers and importers cannot be forced to recall products deemed unsafe by the Electrical Safety Office, once they have been sold or installed,” he said.
Circuit reopened
A walking circuit in Springbrook National Park has reopened in time for the school holidays.
Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Kate Jones said the Purling Brook track, which had cost more than $160,000, followed the same route as the original circuit, giving visitors a close-up look at the 109-metre Purling Brook Falls.
The track was severely damaged when storms swept through the park in November 2007 and then suffered further damage from storms in January 2008 and floods in May this year.
Highway upgrade review
A review into the proposed upgrade of the New England Highway between Geham and Hampton has been ordered
Minister for Main Roads, Craig Wallace said while safety was his top priority he also needed to address the concerns of the community.
“I also understand we need to maintain as much of the natural ecology as possible and minimise the impacts on the environment,” he said.
“The local community has made it clear to me they want all avenues exhausted before any works commence.”
National Parks grow
An extra 22,000 hectares has been added to Queensland’s National Parks, bringing the total to more than eight million hectares.
Acting Premier, Paul Lucas and Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Kate Jones said land that had become National Park or Conservation Park was located throughout south east Queensland, and in the Emerald, Miriam Vale and Airlie Beach areas.
Mr Lucas said Queensland now had the largest National Park area of anywhere in Australia.
ClimateSmart reaches milestone
The 100,000th ClimateSmart Home Service household has been signed up.
Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Kate Jones said ClimateSmart homes were better equipped in the war against power bills and climate change.
“These bill-busting homes will collectively save more than $23 million a year on power and water costs while also saving 1.2 million tonnes of greenhouse gas,” Ms Jones said.
“The greenhouse gas savings alone equate to taking more than 300,000 cars off the road for one year.”
17 September, 2009
Councils to account
for finance course
The State’s Mayors and Councillors have been urged to attend a master class in financial management being held in Longreach next week.Aimed at helping the representatives become more “financially savvy,” the master class will feature presentations from the Queensland Treasury Corporation, the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia and the Department of Infrastructure and Planning.
Minister for Local Government, Desley Boyle said ratepayers are demanding more from their modern Councils and so the one-day master class is designed to help Mayors and Councillors gain the skills they need.
“Over the next three years alone, we are spending more than $430 million to help Local Government build essential community infrastructure – from sewage treatment plants to community halls – and keep Queensland’s economy moving,” Ms Boyle said.
“It is important that these assets are managed for today and for the future and that their full cost, including depreciation, is accounted for.”
Ms Boyle said the master class would help ensure Councillors were able to fulfill their obligations under the Government’s Sustainability and Reporting initiative which is helping Councils achieve better planning, asset management and sustainability outcomes.
“It is critical that all elected representatives take the management of key public assets seriously, understanding that best-practice financial management and sustainability go far beyond simply voting through an annual budget,” she said.
“The new National Frameworks for Local Government stipulate that all Councils across Australia must have asset management plans in place for all asset classes by December 2010.”
The Minister said an audit of 57 mainland Councils found that there were 18 different asset classes managed by Councils across Queensland. The average was 13, however, most Councils were lucky to have asset management plans for even two of these.
Workshops are also being held in Redlands on 29 September and in Cairns on 16 October.
17 September, 2009
Students get tick
after national test
The Minister for Education and Training has welcomed the 2009 national literacy and numeracy results, saying they showed that efforts to boost Queensland students’ performances were having an effect.The Minister, Geoff Wilson said the number of Queensland students at or above the national benchmark had increased in 17 out of 20 areas tested.
“Last year about eight out of 10 of our students were at or above national benchmarks - this year it’s about nine out of 10,” Mr Wilson said.
“We are also ranked sixth this year, compared to seventh in 2008, so we have improved on our own results more than the two leading States, and reduced the gap between us and them.”
Mr Wilson said there was still a long way to go, but there was a plan to get there.
“Our teachers, principals and parents deserve a pat on the back for their efforts to help our kids improve,” he said.
“We’ve got a package of reforms including summer schools, turnaround teams, school audits, extra professional development for teachers, curriculum advisers and mandated teaching times all rolling out from the end of this year and the start of next.”
The issue would be tackled from all angles – improving teaching, supporting students, setting high expectations and reforming the system as a whole.
17 September, 2009
Bushfires ignite
building standard
Queensland is to be among the first Australian State or Territory to adopt the new national bushfire standard for residential buildings.Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, Stirling Hinchliffe said the Government would adopt the standard well ahead of the 1 May 2010 deadline when it would be incorporated into the Building Code of Australia.
Mr Hinchliffe said the recent Victorian bushfires were a stark reminder to all Australians about the dangers the country can present.
“While we cannot stop natural disasters from occurring, what we can do is help protect the lives of Queenslanders by ensuring that all steps are taken to improve safety in their homes,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“These new building standards are the result of the latest research into fire-resistant construction and we want Queenslanders to benefit from this research as soon as possible. That is why we have decided to bring in these new standards seven months early.”
He said the new standards would be incorporated into the Building Act 1975,which regulates building development in Queensland.
They will replace the 1999 Australian standard for design and construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas and will apply to residential building work in designated bushfire-prone areas.
Mr Hinchliffe said following the adoption of the new standards, the Department of Infrastructure and Planning would continue to review some aspects of the standard that may need further refinement to reflect Queensland’s varied climatic conditions and vegetation.
“In the lead up to the adoption of these new regulations, my officers have participated in training sessions across Queensland to inform stakeholders about the new regulations,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“Over 350 building certifiers, builders and building designers have attended these sessions.”
17 September, 2009
Workplace watchdog
puts bite into bark
The Federal Government’s Fair Work Ombudsman has a culture of “going the extra mile” to resolve workplace issues and was “very serious” about its duty to ensure Australian workplaces were fair, according to the Ombudsman, Nicholas Wilson. Mr Wilson told a transport industry forum in Melbourne recently that his staff were committed to building knowledge and fairer workplaces.
He said although the Agency’s 300 inspectors relied on a voluntary compliance model, they were focused on informing the community of its rights and obligations.
“We aim to build knowledge and awareness,” Mr Wilson said.
“We do not insist there is only one way to achieve compliance and will help industry through the challenge of workplace compliance.
“While we will obviously start with voluntary resolution, we will go to any length to bring about compliance if that alternative does not bring results.”
Mr Wilson said the Agency now had a legislative framework to allow it to use Enforceable Undertakings as an alternative to litigation.
“The policy decision we have taken is that there have to be admissions to our contended breaches; that the admissions have to be public and that both the Enforceable Undertaking and the duties which flow from the agreement are made public,” he said.
Mr Wilson said transport sector employers ranked seventh in terms of industries generating the most complaints to his office and should focus on the sort of workplace they wanted and where their workplace strategy would take them.
17 September, 2009
Registry marriages
dressed to nines
The Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages rose to the challenge of a busy parade of weddings last week when the auspicious date 9/9/09 prompted 29 couples to tie the knot.Attorney-General, Cameron Dick said keen interest from couples to marry on the date meant the Registry had extended ceremony times at its Brisbane Marriage Room.
"With 29 couples wanting to marry on the one day, the Registry has again organised for its celebrants to conduct ceremonies at both the Marriage Room and the Hotel Conrad’s function room next door," Mr Dick said.
"The number nine was even more significant for those couples who had their ceremony at 9am, one of which was conducted by Registrar-General Helen Lucas.”
Mr Dick said in recent times the Marriage Room has been inundated with requests for ceremonies on significant dates such as Valentine's Day and dates containing numbers considered lucky in Western and Asian cultures.
"This year at the Brisbane venue, 17 couples married on Valentine's Day, there were 11 leap year weddings on 29 February last year, 32 couples wed on the eighth of the eighth (8/8/08) and 14 couples wed on the seventh of the seventh of 2007 (7/7/07),” Mr Dick said.
Across Queensland, 422 couples married on Valentine's Day this year, 486 couples chose to wed on the 8/08/08 and there were 581 marriages on the 7/7/07.
Mr Dick said the popularity of civil ceremonies had seen record numbers of registry weddings in Brisbane in recent times.
"The Brisbane Marriage Room hosts more weddings than any other venue in Queensland, with 1,432 ceremonies held there last year, up from 1,250 in 2007," he said.
Latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed 65 per cent of all marriages were being performed by civil celebrants.
"There has also been a significant increase in marriages in Queensland in the past few years, with 26,876 registered in 2008, up from 26,008 in 2007 and 25,459 in 2006," the Attorney-General said.
17 September, 2009
Changes ordered
to change table
An investigation into the tragic death of a nine-month-old baby has led the Office of Fair Trading to ban a baby change table.Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading, Peter Lawlor said the change table was clipped on to the top of a cot for use and its straps created a risk of strangulation if it was left fitted.
It had been a popular item in Australia and New Zealand since 2004 and had been sold by nursery retailers and major department stores.
“With this particular change table the straps are of a length that allows the restraint to “be fastened underneath creating a loop of more than 95cm inside the cot,” Mr Lawlor said.
“ This creates a serious strangulation risk for a baby.”
He said some parents or carers placed their baby in the cot while the change table was still attached without realising the danger this could cause.
He said that as the cot was one of the few products where a child was left unattended it was critical it be safe.
“It is vital that consumers who have purchased one of these portable cots that includes the change table contact the company urgently so that a modification can be arranged at no charge to the consumer,” the Minister said.
“Parents should always remove the change table before placing a child in the cot,” he said.
“While this incident has prompted a change in the new draft Australian Standard to eliminate this hazard for portable cots, the Office of Fair Trading is concerned about the number of potential problem products.”
17 September, 2009
Library books space
for write stuff
A new program that brings together the cream of the State’s writers is to be set up out of the State Library of Queensland.Premier and Arts Minister, Anna Bligh said the announcement of the program had been timed to coincide with the five-day Brisbane Writers Festival and the 2009 Queensland Premier’s Literary Award winners.
The program, A State of Writing, will poolthe talents of the Queensland Writers Centre; Book Links; Queensland Poetry Festival and the Children’s Book Council of Australia to form a writing hub at the State Library.
“These organisations will work in collaboration with the State Library to add depth and scale to reading and writing activities across the State,” Ms Bligh said
She said the program follows the Government’s $400,000 investment in the relocation of the Queensland Writers Centre to the State Library of Queensland building at the Cultural Centre South Bank which will be completed in early 2010.
“This means A State of Writing will be a physical hub, to create exciting, engaging and progressive writing opportunities,” the Premier said.
Ms Bligh said one of the first outcomes for A State of Writing will be a panel of shortlisted and winning authors of the Queensland Premier’s Literary Awards featuring prominently on panel discussions and workshops at the Brisbane Writers Festival.
“This is a new partnership model for Queensland with my Government providing a platform to encourage writing and reading in Queensland,” she said.
17 September, 2009
Ambos carry off
excellence awards
The Queensland Ambulance Service’s 2009 Star Care Awards have been presented in Brisbane and the South East and Central regions.Minister for Emergency Services, Neil Roberts said the awards were Ambulance Commissioner David Melville’s personal recognition of the outstanding achievements of individuals who went beyond the call of duty and performed life-saving work within their communities.
“There is no better time than during Ambulance Week to publicly recognise the efforts of those within the QAS who have gone that extra step in the service of the community,” Mr Roberts said.
“These are the types of people that should be recognised and rewarded for their amazing community spirit.”
But Mr Roberts said that while only a few were recognised with a Star Care Award, all of the frontline ambulance officers and those who supported them deserved applause for their continuing efforts to protect Queenslanders.
The Woodford Ambulance Station was named the Station of the Year in the Brisbane Region for its innovative thinking, patient care and commitment to the local community. The station was also awarded the State level award in the same category.
Deanna (Dea) Weston was awarded the Local Ambulance Committee (LAC) Achiever of the Year for her dedication to the Spring Hill/Northgate LAC, where she has been involved for more than a decade, taking on various roles such as secretary and treasurer, and organising a number of fundraising activities.
Jarrod Bliss was named the Young Hero of the Year for Brisbane Region. Jarrod, aged seven at the time, dialed triple zero after his mother fell ill.
Awards were also presented to;
Warren Champion – Paramedic of the Year
Ian Twomey - Patient Transport Officer of the Year;
Stephen Durley - Honorary Ambulance Officer of the Year;
Colin Greig – Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) of the Year; and
Jamie Auld – Support Officer of the Year (also the State winner).
Awards were also made for the South Eastern Region at Beenleigh where Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Services, Peta-Kaye Croft joined State Member for Waterford, Evan Moorhead, QAS Deputy Commissioner, Russell Bowles and QAS South Eastern Region Assistant Commissioner, Jayne Barnes to present the annual awards
South Eastern region Awards were presented to:
Matthew Meister - Paramedic of the Year (also State winner);
Michael Gent - Emergency Medical Dispatcher of the Year;
Jacob Nolan - Young Hero of the Year
Raymond Williams – Patient Transport Officer of the Year;
Beenleigh Ambulance Station – Station of the Year;
Ross Wilson – Local Ambulance Committee (LAC) Achiever of the Year; and
Coralee Stevens – Support Officer of the Year.
Awards for Central Queensland were presented at Rockhampton and were;
Phil Baxter - Paramedic of the Year
Josie Meng - Achiever of the Year (also State winner).
Annette Cella - Honorary Ambulance Officer of the Year;
Harold Toon – Patient Transport Officer of the Year;
Jill Adams – Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) of the Year;
Julie Brooks – Support Officer of the Year; and
Agnes Water Ambulance Station – Station of the Year.
17 September, 2009
Website has formula
for world of science
A new website hosted by the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation is expected to showcase Queensland science and technology to the world.www.science.qld.gov.au has been launched by Parliamentary Secretary for Education, Carolyn Male, who said it was a one-stop-shop for all things about Queensland science and technology.
Ms Male said news, features, event information and profiles of scientists from the State’s research institutes would be featured as well as information on Government programs and support for science, technology and innovation.
“Some of the fascinating reads include how we may be filling up our cars in the future with fuel made from algae and taking home our groceries in bags made from sugarcane-based bioplastic,” she said.
Ms Male said high-profile Queensland authors helped to celebrate the website launch by putting pen to paper in a series of science-focused articles now available online.
One of the authors, science fiction writer, Jack Heath said exploring real-life alternatives to science fiction was part of his day-to-day life.
“As a writer of science-fiction, people often assume the hardest part of my job must be establishing what’s possible,” Mr Heath said.
“That part is easy, because every day, science is proving that almost anything is possible. I’m left with a much more difficult task – to work out what people will believe.”
The Government contributed $40,000 to run four free science-based events at the 2009 Brisbane Writers Festival.
The website launch was followed by a panel session where author John Birmingham, neuroscientist Mandyam Srinivasan and innovation advocate Rowan Gilmore discussed the creative passion and drive shared by authors and scientists.
17 September, 2009
Roads history is
one for the book
A new book on roads written by the Director of Project Management Services at the Department of Transport and Main Roads, Lyall Ford, has been launched by the Minister for Main Roads, Craig Wallace, in Cairns.Mr Wallace said the book, Roads in the Wilderness, depicted how roads had been at the forefront of settlement and development across the State, and were the lifelines for essential goods and supplies for many in the Far North.
“I commend Mr Ford for playing his part in acknowledging the Department's historical achievements and thank him for his contribution to preserving the Department's heritage,” Mr Wallace said.
The Minister said Mr Ford had written the book part-time over the past three years, in conjunction with his role with the Department.
“He began with the Department in 1961 when he was awarded a Main Roads Fellowship to study civil engineering at Townsville University,” Mr Wallace said.
“His knowledge and experience comes from working in many different Main Roads districts throughout Queensland, including 13 years as a District Engineer and Director in Barcaldine, Emerald and Cairns.”
Having worked with the Department for almost 50 years, not only had Mr Ford undertaken extensive research to complete the book, he had also been able to touch on his own personal experiences and recollections.
Mr Wallace urged other experienced employees to record their histories with the Department.
“In addition to the publications, the Department maintains collections of historical artifacts around the State - most notably in the Main Roads Heritage Centre in Toowoomba,” he said.
17 September, 2009
Koalas bear up under
conservation plan
Almost 100 public submissions have been received in the first round of consultation on the draft State Planning Policy for koala conservation.Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Kate Jones, said many community and other organisations had gone to the trouble of commenting including conservation groups, Local Government representatives and Redlands residents.
“The first round of public consultation was to seek the community’s views prior to drafting the policy,” Ms Jones said.
“This round has closed but a second round of formal consultation will occur later this year when a draft policy is released for public comment.”
Ms Jones urged anyone with an interest in the future of the region’s koalas to participate in this process.
She was speaking at Daisy Hill Koala Centre which was reopening after a $250,000 upgrade.
“The Daisy Hill Koala Centre, run by the Department of Environment and Resource Management, uses the latest computer technology to give visitors a better understanding of how koalas live and what each of us can do to reduce the threats they face,” she said.
Ms Jones said the centre would continue to play an important role in increasing people’s understanding of koalas and what they can do to provide a safer environment for them.
In addition to the technological upgrade, $96,000 had been spent on a new walk-through outdoor enclosure where koalas are held in a natural setting for educational purposes.
“Before it was closed for refurbishment the Daisy Hill Koala Centre hosted around 70,000 visitors a year and I’m sure the new facilities will attract an even greater number of people,” Ms Jones said.
17 September, 2009
Driving campaign sets
wheels in motion
A new $1.3 million holiday road safety campaign targeting driver fatigue has been launched by the Premier, Anna Bligh and Minister for Transport, Rachel Nolan.Ms Bligh said research showed fatigue was a major killer on Queensland roads and getting behind the wheel after 17 hours without sleep had the same effect on a person's driving as having a blood alcohol level of 0.05.
“Too many motorists think that driving tired doesn't pose the same risk on our roads as speeding or drink driving. The reality is that tired drivers die. Last year alone, fatigue played a role in 44 deaths on Queensland roads,” Ms Bligh said.
The new road safety campaign would point out the signs of fatigue and remind people of the dangers of driving tired.
As well as TV and radio advertisements, the campaign will feature billboards around the State in known fatigue hot-spots.
Ms Bligh said the Government was spending more on better roads, more on fixing black-spots, rolling out new road safety rules and education campaigns and putting more police on the beat.
“But when it comes to road safety nothing trumps personal responsibility,” she said.
Ms Nolan said fatigue could affect any motorist at any time of the day on short or long trips and was a particular problem in a big, decentralised State like Queensland where people often drove long distances.
“Studies also show that fatigue crashes are usually severe, resulting in serious injury and death, as the driver does not attempt to avoid or prevent the crash,” Ms Nolan said.
“Drivers need to recognise the warning signs of fatigue - yawning, heavy eyes, blurred vision and reduced concentration.”
“If you're seeing the signs pull over to a safe place, rest and avoid continuing to drive tired.”
She said vehicle inspectors had also been out at 10 sites across the State conducting random vehicle inspections.
17 September, 2009
Booklet is antidote
to cattle poison
A booklet written by scientists at Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries has been hailed as a new weapon in the fight to save cattle from being poisoned by the Pimelea plant.The booklet, Understanding Pimelea Poisoning of Cattle, outlines strategies for dealing with poisoning by the plants, which predominantly grow across the drier regions of Queensland, NSW and South Australia.
Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland, Tim Mulherin said in a bad year Pimelea could cost producers up to $50 million in lost production.
“Pimelea can be quite toxic to cattle and can lead to constriction of the pulmonary blood vessels, fluid leakage into the chest, anaemia, diarrhoea and death,” Mr Mulherin said.
“These plants cause serious economic consequences for the cattle industry through loss of production, stock deaths and the costs of supplementary feeding.”
The book was written by the QPIF scientists as part of a joint initiative between AgForce, the University of Queensland, NSW Department of Primary Industries, and Primary Industries and Resources in South Australia (PIRSA) with funding from the Natural Heritage Trust.
Animal Health Officer at PIRSA, Trent Scholz said the booklet would be distributed to producers across Australia.
“This guide will help landowners identify the risk factors, particularly when weather conditions may be more favourable for Pimelea growth, and how to proactively reduce the risk for stock,” Mr Scholz said.
“We also included a number of trials and case studies, detailing the personal experiences of producers, the symptoms of Pimelea poisoning, treatments and their management strategies.”
AgForce Cattle president Grant Maudsley said the initiative included herbicide trials to identify the most cost effective chemicals for controlling Pimelea.
17 September, 2009
Firefighters match
it with the best
Eight Queensland Fire and Rescue Service workers in Southport have received Diligent and Ethical Service Medals.Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Services, Peta-Kaye Croft joined QFRS South Eastern Region Assistant Commissioner, Peter Beauchamp in the presentation ceremony.
“Our local firefighters undertake essential work 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to service our growing community,” Ms Croft said.
“They put their own lives at risk to save others and protect our property, and today we have the opportunity to recognise their fantastic work.”
The Government had provided $430 million in the Budget to the QFRS, an eight per cent increase from the last financial year.
The money would be used to fund more frontline firefighters, build four new fire stations and six refurbished or replacement stations.
Ms Croft said firefighters in the QFRS South Eastern Region responded to more than 14,000 incidents during the 2008-09 financial year, including 1,850 incidents from Southport Fire and Rescue Station.
“These incidents included everything from motor vehicle crashes, to grass fires, wildfires and structural fires,” Ms Croft said.
Assistant Commissioner Beauchamp said many of the officers had spent their whole working lives protecting the Gold Coast community.
“Their valuable service protects property and people and through the safety messages and educational activities they undertake lives are saved,” Mr Beauchamp said.
17 September, 2009
Regional tourism
cleared to take off
The program of developing Tourism Opportunity Plans for Queensland’s tourism regions has been extended to Townsville with 13 major investment projects identified.Part of the 10-year Queensland Tourism Strategy, the Townsville program includes a central business district tourism precinct, sustainable tourism on Magnetic Island and an eco resort at Wallaman Fall.
Minister for Tourism, Peter Lawlor said tourism was a major industry for the Townsville region with 1.94 million visitors travelling to the region in the year ending March 2009.
“For the destination to continue to prosper and grow, we need to identify new opportunities,” Mr Lawlor said.
“This plan looks at what is already there and lists ‘catalyst investment’ projects which will take the region into the future.”
Tourism Opportunity Plans were being developed for each of the State’s tourism regions with plans for the Whitsundays/Mackay and Brisbane regions released earlier this year.
Tourism Queensland Chief Executive Officer, Anthony Hayes said the project partners worked with more than 70 stakeholders to identify a range of projects which would build on Queensland’s four key themes of natural encounters, adventures, islands, beaches and the reef, and Queensland lifestyle.
“This plan is a guide to help public and private investment and infrastructure come together to meet residents’ and visitors’ needs to ensure the region’s potential is realised while preserving its character and diversity.”
Townsville Enterprise CEO, Trevor Goldstone said the Townsville region already featured a wide variety of quality tourism products and experiences, but for the destination to continue to flourish it must explore new opportunities.
“The North Queensland Tourism Opportunity Plan is a roadmap for tourism development in our region for the next 10 years,” Mr Goldstone said.
17 September, 2009
Bilby numbers bounce back
Threatened Species Week has been completed in Queensland with the news that the once threatened bilby population is recovering.Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Kate Jones said while there were many species still in need of help, the turnaround in the bilby’s fortunes was an outstanding example of what could be achieved.
The bilby’s recovery is highlighted on a new section of the Department of Environment and Resource Management (DERM) website www.derm.qld.gov.au which was launched to coincide with Threatened Species Week.
Director and co-founder of the Save the Bilby Fund, Frank Manthey said the bilby had been the subject of intense conservation efforts since being rediscovered in Western Queensland in 1988.
“Now the bilby is found in a few places in Western Queensland, with our largest remaining group of bilbies living in one area west of the Diamantina River, which includes populations in Astrebla Downs National Park and Diamantina National Park,” Mr Manthey said
“Recently, a large bilby population was discovered on a stock route in Diamantina Shire and further bilby populations are believed to exist on other stock routes.”
Across the rest of Australia, the bilby is restricted to parts of the Great Sandy, Gibson and Tanami deserts in Central Australia and the Pilbara and West Kimberley in Western Australia.
It has also been introduced to various sites including Scotia Reserve in NSW, Western Australia, and South Australia.
Cats and foxes pose the greatest threat to the rabbit-sized bilby.
17 September, 2009
Minister dogged by
assistance animals
The Minister for Disability Services, Annastacia Palaszczuk has called for uniform national laws to cover guide dogs, hearing and assistance dogs.Speaking at a national conference in Canberra, Ms Palaszczuk said there were too many variations between States laws relating to public access for people who depended on the assistance animals for their welfare.
“In some States, access laws only exist for people with guide dogs while in other States, the legal status of people with assistance dogs is spread across a bewildering array of Acts,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“For instance, there is very little reason for a person with an assistance dog to catch a bus from Brisbane to Sydney when the person can’t get back on the bus for the return trip because the bus company is within the law in NSW to refuse access to assistance dogs.”
Ms Palaszczuk said Queensland had recently changed the law regarding public access for people with properly trained and accredited guide, hearing and assistance dogs and had introduced one of the toughest regimes of fines for individuals and companies who broke the law.
She would like to see the same laws introduced across the nation.
“In Queensland, fines of up to $10,000 for individuals and up to $50,000 for businesses now apply for refusing access to someone with a highly-trained and certified guide, hearing or assistance dog,” she said.
“The new Act means that everyone now has the same access to shops, restaurants, cinemas and entertainment venues, as well as transport services such as buses, taxis and ferries.”
She said dogs made a huge difference to the quality of life of people with a disability and opened up a new world of possibilities for them - provided they did not face discrimination from those operating transport services or public places.
17 September, 2009
Awards changes for non-PS staff
Staff of QPS Agencies other than Public Servants, have had their industrial Award modified by the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission following a lengthy review.
Changes made to the Award include extending coverage to Car Park Officers in the Department of the Premier and Cabinet and Tyre Fitters in the Department of Police but removing College Educational Assistants who are no longer employed in the Department of Education and Training.
Other amendments updated references to names, functions and responsibilities that had changed over time.
The amended Award took effect in August and can be inspected atwww.psier.qld.gov.au
Birth Certificate warning
The Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages has warned that January is one of its busiest times and applications for birth certificates should be made now.
Attorney-General, Cameron Dick said birth certificates were used as proof of identity and age for all children enrolling in their first year of school, including Prep Year.
“Many schools are already taking enrolments for Prep, even though the start of the 2010 school year is some months away,” Mr Dick said.
“I would encourage parents who have a child starting school next year to get their applications in now.”
Doctor signs contract
A five-year contract covering additional patient flying time has been awarded to the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland section).
Director General of Queensland Health, Mick Reid said the contract had been required following 10 per cent annual growth in the services required.
The Flying Doctor service had previously been providing the additional hours but not on contract.
The service is fully funded by Queensland Health.
Students win scholarships
Two honours students have been awarded Marine Fish Habitat scholarships as part of a Fisheries Queensland program.
Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland, Tim Mulherin said students Kate Maguire and Patrick Gartrell had been putting sea grasses and coral reefs under the microscope.
“The scholarship funding of $5,000 will help Kate and Patrick further highlight the importance of marine fish habitats to fisheries,” Mr Mulherin said.
“When the students’ projects are complete, their research will give the Department a better understanding of the issues faced in marine fish habitats.”
Climate comment extended
Consultation on the Draft South East Queensland Climate Change Management Plan has been extended until 9 October.
The plan aims to move the region towards a low-carbon future and help communities become more resilient to the long-term impacts of climate change.
It describes proposed actions to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions from land management and future urban development in South East Queensland
Ambulance stations opened
The new Clermont Ambulance Station and refurbished Moura Ambulance Station have been opened in time for Ambulance Week
The previous Clermont Ambulance Station dated back to the early 1960s and comprised a single building and a shed out the back.
The new $1.3 million complex consists of three buildings – the station house, a separate self-contained building to provide accommodation for relieving staff, and a four-bay shed to house the station’s vehicles.
The Moura Ambulance Station, built in 1971, has undergone several refurbishments and modifications over the years to ensure facilities and technology are kept up to date and to support the changing needs of the Queensland Ambulance Service.
Multicultural grants open
Applications for grants in the Multicultural Assistance Program are open and will be accepted for the next two months.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Annastacia Palaszczuk said the program was a key component to the Queensland Government’s Multicultural Policy, Multicultural Queensland – making a world of difference.”
“This program allows community organisations and Local Governments to apply for grants to help them stage multicultural festivals and cultural celebrations that foster positive community relations right across the State,” Ms Palaszczuk said
“The grants, which are administered through Multicultural Affairs Queensland in the Department of Communities, also help fund community development projects and help improve access to services.”
Islands closed
Some inshore islands in north Queensland have been closed for the seabird breeding season.
Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Kate Jones said that over the coming months thousands of migratory seabirds would flock to inshore islands off Mission Beach and Cardwell for another busy breeding season.
“The islands are the seasonal home to an impressive range of birds such as crested and bridled terns, black noddies and the pied imperial-pigeon,” Ms Jones said.
“Seabirds are timid by nature and easily alarmed, and will leave their nests if disturbed. If this happens, the eggs and chicks are exposed and can quickly die.”
Stats show Aboriginal growth
The Australian Bureau of Statistics has released projections showing Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island population could reach between 713,300 and 721,100 by 2021.
This is an Indigenous growth rate of 2.2 per cent per annum between 2006 and 2021, compared with an annual growth rate of between 1.2 and 1.7 per cent for the total Australian population.
The ABS said the higher growth rate was largely due to high levels of fertility in the Indigenous population and an increased number of Indigenous women entering peak child-bearing ages.
10 September, 2009
Women’s program is
far from cosmetic
The Public Service Commission has launched a new whole-of-Government mentoring program for women.Entitled Inspiring Women, the program has been designed to develop future female leaders for the Queensland Public Service and assist them reach their full career potential.
Chief Executive of the PSC, Bruce Wilson, said the program would allow women from the junior and middle levels of the PS to build their leadership skills and network in a supportive learning environment.
“It is a low cost, high value program,” Mr Wilson said, “that caters to both regional and urban public sector staff,”
He said nearly 40 per cent of the program’s first 400 participants come from regional Queensland, including Cairns, Mount Isa, Mackay and Bundaberg.
Director of Leadership, Learning and Development at the PSC, Louise Perram-Fisk said the mentoring program provided participants with a unique opportunity to engage with other women from across the PS.
“The group mentoring approach enables women from across the Queensland public sector to share their experiences and grow their skills together, instead of directly matching women to mentors, which is often what has been done in the past,” Ms Perram-Fisk said.
“Participants will progress through a self-paced 12 week program. They will also come together for a fortnightly one-hour teleconference to discuss and support progress and hear from inspirational high profile guest speakers.”
The program was launched at the Brisbane Convention Centre with a presentation by award-winning businesswoman Maureen Frank who shared her experiences of success and challenge.
Ms Perram-Fisk said the Inspiring Women program would run to December with a new intake planned for February next year.
She invited women and managers interested in obtaining more information to visit the PSC website: www.psc.qld.gov.au.
10 September, 2009
Cleaners clean up
in new PS deal
Working conditions for cleaners in Government buildings are set to improve following a new arrangement to be introduced on 1 October.Premier Anna Bligh announced the new deal which was agreed between the Department of Public Works and the Liquor Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union (LHMU).
The Premier said it would apply to all buildings occupied by the Government, whether owned or leased.
“This is linked to the national campaign CleanStart, which is about improving conditions for some of our most vulnerable workers,” Ms Bligh said.
“While there are many reputable cleaning contractors in this industry, there are those who have not valued their workers and have historically paid poor wages and provided less than reasonable work conditions.”
She said the new arrangement would address these matters.
Minister for Public Works, Robert Schwarten said the new criteria had been negotiated with the LHMU by QBuild, the Government Agency which oversees Government cleaning contracts.
“The new arrangements will ensure cleaning contractors are properly treated and appropriately paid for the good work they do,” Mr Schwarten said.
“Throughout Australia there are too many instances where cleaners are not shown proper respect, are victimised, discriminated against, underpaid and undertrained.”
He said from now on, the Government would assess tenders on both price and non-price criteria.
“The non-price component of the cleaning contract will be up to 30 per cent and reflects a number of factors including that the lowest priced tender doesn’t necessarily represent best value for money,” he said.
Mr Schwarten said non-price criteria related to whether the company possessed staff with specific skills; complying with workplace health and safety legislation; minimum engagement hours for varying areas; employee training; evaluation of work performance; following environmental best practice; and importantly, provision for pay in accordance with the best market rate in the industry.
10 September, 2009
PSC shows way with
new Directives
The Public Service Commission has issued four new directives amending allowances and expense entitlements following rulings by the Australian Taxation Office and movements in the cost of living.The Directives cover car allowances, travelling allowances and transfer and appointment expenses. They each replace equivalent Directives from 2008 and took effect on 1 September.
Under the updated Directive 8/09 for Motor Vehicle Allowances, entitlements for staff using their vehicles for official purposes have been brought into line with those allowed by the ATO. “Employees may be familiar with them through preparing their income tax returns,” the Directive says.
The new rates range from 63¢ to 75¢ per kilometre for standard and rotary cars, depending on the size of the engine, and 25.2¢ to 30¢ per kilometre for motorbikes.
Directive 9/09 Domestic Travelling and Relieving Expenses has also been updated in line with an ATO ruling with the special allowance for accommodation with relatives etc, increasing from $33.00 to $33.50 in line with the Consumer Price Index.
The Directive covering international travel includes an amended list of countries and respective cost groups in line with a Tax Office ruling but has increased the amounts of equipment allowance from $264 to $268 and $199 to $202 in line with the CPI. The Daily Personal Allowance is not changed.
The final Directive on Transfer and Appointment Expensesincludes a number of increased allowances in line with the CPI.
For full details of the new Directives visit the PSC websitewww.psc.qld.gov.au
10 September, 2009
Super definition
creating interest
A Circular has been issued by the Public Sector Industrial and Employee Relations Division (PSIER) clarifying the correct method for calculating superannuation entitlements.The Circular follows a ruling from the Australian Taxation Office that defines what is meant by ‘Ordinary Time Earnings’ (OTE) and which came into effect on 1 July.
According to the PSIER Circular, the new ruling changes the previous definition of OTE to include termination payments made instead of notice and some performance bonuses.
This means that from 1 July the minimum superannuation contribution by the employer, currently 9%, will be made for those payments.
“OTE can be defined as before tax earnings that are the result of an employee’s ordinary hours of work,” the Circular says.
“This does not include overtime or leave loading. However, it does include shift allowance, weekend penalties, higher duties allowance and locality allowances.”
The Circular says that by using a standard definition of OTE, superannuation contributions made by employers under the super guarantee rules will have the same base for all Australian employees.
It says however that QSuper would continue to apply its definition of salary for contributors to Defined Benefit accounts.
“A minimum benefit test will apply on exit (eg Retirement, resignation, etc) to ensure that the employer component equals at least 9% of the OTE from 1 July 2006,” the Circular says.
It also says the new definition of OTE will have no impact on salary sacrifice
“As OTE relates to the employer contribution there is no effect on employee salary sacrifice arrangements.”
A checklist of payments and their relationship to OTE is included wityh the Circulaar which can be downloaded from the PSIER websitewww.psier.qld.gov.au
10 September, 2009
Union gives credit
for pay rise
The Queensland Public Sector Union has welcomed finalisation in-principle of the core collective bargaining agreement which has set new wages and conditions for the majority of staff in the Queensland Public Service.General Secretary of the QPSU, Alex Scott said the settlement was only made possible by the last minute resolution of a number of outstanding matters.
“We think the 12.5 per cent pay increase for Queensland’s public sector workers is fair,” Mr Scott said, “given the current economic circumstances posed by the global financial crisis and the way that’s impacting service delivery.”
He said the Government had finally agreed to ballot affected public sector workers should it seek to change ordinary hours of work in Queensland public sector workplaces in Brisbane’s central business district.
A delay in core wage talks had been cleared for workers in the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
“Until now, core collective agreement talks have been held up as the Government opposed sending this particular matter to the Industrial Court for determination, but I’m pleased to report the Government has finally agreed this is the how the matter should proceed,” Mr Scott said.
Questions first arose about the transport and main roads industrial agreement when Transport and Main Roads was integrated into a new Department in March.
“Any of our members found by the Queensland Industrial Court to be party to Main Roads entitlements will keep those wages and conditions, while those without legal claim to the Main Roads agreement will be covered by the future core collective agreement,” Mr Scott said.
“This will help ensure the core agreement can progress while Transport and Main Roads workers’ employment is addressed.”
He said the overall agreement will now go to a ballot of QPSU members, with the Government holding a separate ballot of all affected employees. However, the Government ballot will not be held until the finalisation of legal proceedings that determine the status of workers in the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
Once the government’s ballot has concluded, assuming that it is in favour of certification, the agreement will be certified in the Industrial Relations Commission so that its provisions, including the pay increases, can take effect.
Mr Scott said the provisions relating to wage increases would be backdated to 1 August and he hoped the back pay could be received before Christmas.
10 September, 2009
Campaign warms up
to climate change
The Queensland Public Sector Union is urging its members to sign up and join the fight against climate change.The QPSU has launched a joint program with other unions and the Australian Conservation Foundation to enlist large numbers of Union Climate Connectors to work with people in their workplace, homes and community to make small changes that will help save the planet.
A statement from the union said past campaigns had shown that when workers stood together they could make a real difference.
“In 2007 thousands of QPSU members worked as part of the rights at work campaign to create a fairer Australia,” the statement said.
“In a lot of cases their motivation wasn't as much about creating a fairer country right now, but leaving behind a better country for their children.”
The union said similar action was needed against climate change to prevent future generations becoming worse off that the present one.
“Now is the time for climate action – as a Union Climate Connector you will receive materials and updates to help people in your workplace make small changes, in their homes, at work and in the community,” the statement said.
“As a union we have shown that nothing is stronger than workers standing together for change. We have the opportunity to help bring a change that will make an impact for the rest of human history.”
10 September, 2009
Brisbane takes off
in capital plan
A new law declaring for the first time that Brisbane is the capital of Queensland is among three to be the reviewed in the Government’s ongoing legislative reform program.Minister for Local Government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Desley Boyle said the next steps in the reform process included a review of the City of Brisbane Act 1924 and a review of legislation governing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Council areas.
“The City of Brisbane Act has gathered some dust over the years, with this review not only timely in our 150th year of being a State in our own right, but critical in terms of recognising formally in this legislation for the first time that Brisbane is our capital city,” Ms Boyle said.
“We will be bringing the legislation governing and supporting Brisbane City into the 21st Century, with the review to encompass the City of Brisbane Act 1924, the Brisbane City Council Business and Procedures Act 1939, and the City of Brisbane Regulation 2004.”
She said the Government would consult widely, asking Queenslanders want they wanted for their capital city and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Councils so these Local Governments can best serve them in the years ahead.
“Reviewing the Acts will reduce duplication, cut red tape and create a robust legislative framework for each of the Councils,” Ms Boyle said
Other legislation being reviewed includes the Local Government (Aboriginal Lands) Act 1978 and the Aboriginal and the Torres Strait Islander Communities (Justice, Land and Other Matters) Act 1984.
10 September, 2009
Enrolments on a roll
at Electoral office
The Australian Electoral Commission’s Enrol to Vote Week has been judged a success with Electoral Commissioner, Ed Killesteyn reporting that over 1,800 schools took part nationwide.Mr Killesteyn said Queensland contributed 340 of that record number.
Enrol to Vote Week, which was held from 27 July to 2 August, involved the Commission working in partnership with secondary schools to encourage 17 and 18-year-old students to enrol to vote.
This year’s Enrol to Vote Week focus was on increasing the provisional enrolment of 17-year-olds, with the theme: Enrolling to vote – something you don’t have to wait until you’re 18 to do.
Mr Killesteyn said working with schools across the country through Enrol to Vote Week was an important way for young people to understand they needed to be enrolled to vote to have their say.
“Currently one in two 18-year-olds is not enrolled to vote and many 17-year-olds are not aware that they too can enrol,” Mr Killesteyn said.
“Many 17-year-olds are likely to be first-time voters at the next Federal Election. Our aim is to enrol them now so they will be automatically able to vote as soon as they turn 18.”
To date, the AEC has received more than 12,700 enrolment forms from students as part of Enrol to Vote Week 2009, with more forms expected in the coming weeks.
10 September, 2009
New dog database
shows its teeth
A new database has been developed to keep track of dangerous dogs and their owners as they move about the State.The resource is expected to be especially helpful tracing owners who move from Council to Council to avoid laws requiring dangerous animals to be fenced, muzzled, micro-chipped and possibly, destroyed.
Minister for Local Government, Desley Boyle said that with an estimated 1,500 regulated dogs in Queensland and just over 200 dogs in the system so far, Councils should make registration a priority.
“Tough new laws came into force on 1 July, giving Councils and police greater powers to enter properties and seize offending dogs, and fines of up to $30,000 for breaches,” Ms Boyle said.
“Owners of regulated dogs must be responsible and follow strict rules otherwise they will face hefty fines and their animals will be seized if they maim, injure or cause fear in the community.”
She said the statistics spoke for themselves with 464 recorded dog attacks on children in the last two years alone, 21 per cent resulting in hospitalisation.
“In adults, there were 553 recorded injuries in 2007-08, 23 per cent resulting in hospitalisation,” she said.
“Kids and adults have suffered terrible injuries from dog attacks, let alone the lasting psychological damage that goes with it.
“As a community, we must hold irresponsible dog owners accountable, and Councils have a lead role to play.”
Ms Boyle said before the new laws came into force, owners of regulated dogs could move from one Council area to another, but their details and the offending histories of their dogs didn’t move with them.
“That meant an animal declared as dangerous in one Council could go under the radar, moving just a short distance away to another Council, with the details of any horrendous offences disappearing,” she said.
“The data base has been designed to catch these irresponsible dog owners, enabling Councils to track and crack down on people who fail to keep regulated dogs under control or let their dogs pose a serious risk to community safety.”
Ms Boyle said Brisbane City Council was set to start entering data on some 600 regulated dogs in its area – a task she described as “huge but necessary.”
10 September, 2009
Rescue camera to
develop skills
Mobile cameras attached to helmets have been revealed as the next major weapon in the ongoing efforts to rescue whales safely in Queensland waters.According to the Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries, Tim Mulherin, the ‘head cams’ would assist rescuers to refine their rescue techniques.
The Minister made the announcement following the season’s first rescue of a whale caught in shark nets. The eight-metre whale, a juvenile, was heavily entangled at Coolangatta, taking three hours to release it.
“Local lifeguards notified us about the whale at 11am. The entanglement was then confirmed by one of our whale watch volunteers and the volunteer Marine Animal Release Team (MART) was activated,” Mr Mulherin said.
“To further support these teams, they will trial mobile helmet cameras to film releases. The cameras will be mounted on the helmets already worn for safety during releases.”
The Minister said that if successful, the cameras would allow officers to analyse and refine their release techniques while also using the vision to train new officers.
“Following any entanglement we often get calls to remove shark control gear from our beaches during the whale migration season,” he said.
“Swimmer safety is the number one priority, and the Queensland Government is not prepared to put swimmers at risk by removing shark netting at any time of the year.”
10 September, 2009
Roadworks drive drivers
to distraction
Motorists have been urged to slow down and keep calm when driving through roadworks.Minister for Main Roads, Craig Wallace, made the call saying he had been receiving reports of poor driver behaviour across the State.
Mr Wallace said while the Department’s Safety Around Roadworks campaign had been successful in raising awareness, some motorists were still putting workers’ lives at risk by driving aggressively and impatiently through roadwork sites.
“Since the launch of the safety campaign in 2005, there has been increased awareness in the community on safety around roadworks,” Mr Wallace said.
“However, we are still hearing about poor driver behaviour resulting in casualties at roadworks.”
He said few work sites presented as many risks as oadworks, and drivers had to realise that when they ignored reduced speed limits and drove dangerously through the sites, they were endangering the lives of men and women who were simply trying to do their jobs.
Mr Wallace said statistics showed that from 2005 to 2008, there were 71 reported casualties as a result of crashes where roadworks were a contributing factor.
“These statistics do not include the many incidents which are not reported or the types of road user behaviour some roadworkers experience daily,” the Minister said.
“The Roadworker Safety Hotline, which is open to Transport and Main Roads employees, has received 82 calls this year, with reports of workers receiving verbal abuse, vehicles weaving into the worksite, and even objects being hurled at workers,” he said.
“In June alone there were 12 reported incidents of dangerous driver behaviour.
“Of those, four involved drivers speeding and eight involved motorists failing to stop at either traffic lights or hand-held signage. Several involved drivers ignoring signage and entering closed off lanes, into the path of oncoming traffic.”
Mr Wallace said in one case a motorist ignored a traffic controller’s instructions and proceeded to drive through witches hats and barriers and entered a closed off lane, driving over a traffic island and across southbound lanes.
It was disturbing that some of the incidents even involved professional drivers.
“Roadworkers have witnessed truck drivers and bus drivers speeding and ignoring traffic directions,” he said.
“And it seems that even children think it’s okay to disrespect roadworkers, with one busload of children pelting a work crew with food from a school bus window.”
10 September, 2009
Mental health shift
is feel-good move
A number of psychological services and resources in the Department of Defence have been relocated to Lavarack Barracks to improve mental health services for members of the Australian Defence Forces in North Queensland. Federal Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, Greg Combet said the relocation of the Psychology Support Section – North Queensland (PSS-NQ) will mean that ADF members at Lavarack will have greater access to mental health professionals including nurses, doctors, social workers, and chaplains.
“This is the first step in a series of events that will unfold in Townsville over the next
12 months as a result of Professor David Dunt’s review of ADF mental health care,” Mr Combet said
“The move is a significant step towards the implementation of a Primary Mental Health Care Multidisciplinary Team at Lavarack Barracks giving ADF members quick access to care when they need it, and at their workplace.”
Mr Combet said that in addition to the new Primary Mental Health Care Multidisciplinary Team, a new Regional Mental Health Team would be established at the barracks within the next 12 months.
“The Regional Mental Health Team will provide secondary level mental health services including outpatient treatment programs, supervision of more complex cases, and the delivery and coordination of mental health training for ADF personnel,” the Minister said.
“It will be created with a coordinator and a minimum of three other professionals, including a clinical psychologist.”
10 September, 2009
Builders nail contract
changes
A Memorandum of Understanding between the Queensland Building Services Authority, the Master Builders Association and the Housing Industry Association has been signed in a bid to develop fairer domestic building contracts.The MoU was also signed by the Minister for Public Works, Robert Schwarten who said it had been the result of extensive consultation.
“These principles are required as a number of issues contained within the current domestic contracts are more advantageous towards builders than home owners,” Mr Schwarten said.
He said these issues included the treatment of time in establishing a commencement date; extension of time claims; inadequate liquidator damages; contracting out of designated stage progress payments, and claims for practical completion before evidence of inspection and approval.
Mr Schwarten said the reforms were important to the Bligh Government’s Toward Q2 initiative of fair communities.
“What is pleasing is the key building industry associations and the regulator have worked so well together on this initiative to remove these unfair contractual terms,” he said
“The memorandum reflects the commitment of the organisations to an ongoing collaborative process of contractual reform.”
Mr Schwarten said the memorandum sets out seven broad principles which the organisations agree to address to improve contractual fairness for both parties.
These are the clarification of the commencement of contracted works; the need to present extension of time claims as soon as practical and with relevant supporting documents; an analysis of alternative progress payments to match progress of work; inclusion of default provisions for liquidated damages; provision of appropriate certification at practical completion; the right to suspend works for substantial breaches, and the owner’s right to terminate building contracts over the builder’s failure to hold an appropriate licence.
10 September, 2009
Indigenous art joins
dots for Centrelink
A number of specially-commissioned Indigenous artworks have been installed in the newly-renovated Centrelink Office at Palm Beach.Indigenous artist, Anthony Walker and Eddie Nona were engaged to prepare the works. Spokeswoman for Centrelink, Rebecca Halliday said the aim was to create a continuing celebration of reconciliation.
"Staff at Palm Beach wanted to share culturally significant methods of communication and provide a tool to engage with all sectors of our community, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous," Ms Halliday said.
"We want to create an environment where we show how much we value the diversity of our community and what a positive impact it has on our society."
Although Mr Nona now lives at Palm Beach, he was born on Thursday Island in the Torres Strait and said moving between the Island and nearby Badu Island taught him to respect the ocean.
"The colours that I use in my paintings are an expression of how I feel about life beneath the sea," Mr Noona said.
"Even though I am now living in the city, I know that any time I want the memories to come rushing back, I close my eyes and I can feel and see everything that’s important to me.”
"It’s for this reason that I hope to capture my dreams through painting, so that others can have a taste of my island home."
Mr Walker was taught to paint by his grandfather, Alf Walker, of the Yiman people and grandmother, Janet Martin, of the Gurreng Gurreng language group.
Dedicated to keeping the memory of his grandparents alive, Mr Walker uses his artistic talents to portray the importance of animals and the environment to his culture.
He was a finalist at the NSW Parliament Indigenous Arts Award in 2006 and went on to win the Byron Bay Art Competition in 2007 and more recently won the 2008 Gold Coast Indigenous Art and Design Award.
10 September, 2009
More Councils
rating reform
Reforms to the State’s Local Government sector are continuing with the Government announcing a review of legislation relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Councils. Minister for Local Government and ATSI Partnerships, Desley Boyle announced reviews of the Local Government (Aboriginal Lands) Act 1978 and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities (Justice, Land and Other Matters) Act 1984. Both have provisions that are dated and contradict provisions of the Local Government Act 2009.
Ms Boyle said some provisions in the two pieces of legislation overlapped, including in the areas of hunting and gathering rights and the power of Councils to employ community police to enforce local laws.
On top of that, she said, Mornington Island Shire had a local law which overrode some of the provisions.
“It is high time we reviewed and harmonised the legislation,” Ms Boyle said.
“In general, the rules in Aurukun and Mornington Island should be the same as other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Councils and the same as other Councils in Queensland.
“There’s no doubt many of these issues are going to be contentious, but I assure the Councils and the people of these communities that there will be thorough, local and genuine consultation.”
The Minister said it would be an important opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and all other stakeholders to have their say and be part of developing a modern network of Shire Councils that can operate on a level playing field with every other Council around the State.
10 September, 2009
Courts mean trouble
for young offenders
Queensland Courts are to be given wider powers to deal with juvenile offenders.Minister for Community Services, Karen Struthers said the tough new laws would help make life safer and more secure for all Queenslanders.
Ms Struthers said the changes were being made to the Juvenile Justice Act and included giving Courts wider powers to impose curfews on dangerous young offenders, allowing Courts to name dangerous young offenders convicted of serious offences and giving police stronger powers to arrest dangerous young offenders who breach bail and supervision orders.
“We’ve listened to the community and have taken their concerns on board,” Ms Struthers said. “There were tough issues at stake that called for tough measures. That’s what these reforms are all about.”
She said the vast majority of young people were responsible and did the right thing and that was reflected in the latest figures.
In 2001, the rate of juvenile crime was around nine offences per 100 young people. It had now dropped to eight offences per 100 young people.
“That’s significant bearing in mind the population of young people rose by almost 50,000 in the same period,” the Minister said.
“These figures show that police, Courts and youth justice workers are striking the right balance between helping young people in trouble and protecting the community.”
Ms Struthers said one of the more significant reforms related to jail terms for serious young offenders.
“We will increase the minimum detention period for young people sentenced to life imprisonment for multiple murders from 15 years to 20 years,” she said.
“We’re also giving the Courts the power to place curfews on young offenders in a bid to stop them from re-offending.”
The Minister said Courts would also have to consider setting a date for the transfer of offenders from youth detention to adult prison if their sentence carries through to adulthood.
“We will also ban the publication of any information that could identify a child victim of crime,” she said.
10 September, 2009
Tourism campaign has deals
Attractive accommodation deals on the Gold Coast are to be featured in a new marketing campaign announced by Minister for Tourism, Peter Lawlor.
The campaign was being run in partnership between Tourism Queensland, Gold Coast Tourism and Wotif.com Australia’s major online accommodation provider.
The campaign will be promoted online and on radio in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, with people able to book rooms subject to availability for travel until early December.
Justice Dutney dies
Supreme Court Justice Peter Dutney has died suddenly in South Australia. He was 54.
Chief Justice of Queensland, Paul de Jersey and Attorney-General, Cameron Dick paid tribute, Chief Justice de Jersey saying the Supreme Court would mourn the tragic loss of a fine judge.
Mr Dick said Justice Dutney's sudden passing would be a great loss to both the legal profession and the State.
He had been named as the inaugural President of the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal, which begins operation on 1 December.
New police boat on duty
The newest vessel in the Queensland Police Service’s fleet, the $3.75 million Brett T Handran, has been officially commissioned.
Minister for Police, Neil Roberts said the 22-metre catamaran, to be based at the Brisbane Water Police Complex in Lytton, would significantly enhance the Queensland Police Service’s capacity for search and rescue, response to marine-related incidents and general law enforcement.
Commissioner Bob Atkinson said the vessel was a fitting tribute to Constable Handran, one of the 137 Queensland police officers to be killed in the line of duty.
Constable Handran was killed in 1989 after responding to a domestic disturbance in Wynnum West.
Stock routes protected
New stock route management legislation is aimed at preserving the integrity of one of Queensland’s great icons.
Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy, Stephen Robertson said the Government would implement a range of reforms to ensure Queensland’s stock route network was preserved, both for both its primary purpose of droving stock and its significant conservation and cultural values.
The 72,000 kilometre stock route network was created more than 100 years ago. “By its very nature it also provides a network of corridors that crisscross the State, playing a vital role in the Queensland Biodiversity strategy.” Mr Robertson said.
Start for rapid transit
Survey works have begun on the 13-kilometre Gold Coast Rapid Transit project.
Minister for Transport, Rachel Nolan said that surveyors from two Gold Coast companies had begun mapping sections of the corridor in Southport, paving the way for the start of design and construction work.
The Gold Coast Rapid Transit project is the first of its kind in Australia and will generate 6,300 jobs.
It is scheduled to begin operations in early 2014.
Building seminars on
Builders and trade contractors have been invited to attend free seminars on subsidence.
Minister for Public Works, Robert Schwarten said the financial costs associated with rectifying subsidence-related defective building work could be devastating to residential builders.
“The cost of rectifying defective work commonly exceeds $100,000 and over the last two financial years, the Building Services Authority has received just over 1,400 complaints involving subsidence with the majority in the residential building sector,” Mr Schwarten said.
The seminars would include important technical DVD information and useful advice from an industry expert.
Housing open at Nerang
A new, 52-unit affordable housing complex in has been launched in Nerang, on the Gold Coast.
Minister for Housing, Karen Struthers said the $10 million project offered affordable housing to low-to-moderate income families.
“This housing complex came about out of a partnership with the Government and the YMCA. It goes to show what can be done when Government and community organisations work together,” Ms Struthers said.
In all the Government planned more than 4,000 new social housing dwellings across the State.
Crime compo updated
Changes to Queensland’s compensation system for victims of crime are the most significant in more than a decade.
Attorney-General, Cameron Dick said the Victims of Crime Assistance Bill 2009 provides the legal framework to establish a new scheme called Victim Assist Queensland which will provide more timely and effective support for victims.
Mr Dick said a Victims Assistance Unit will be created within the Department of Justice and Attorney-General to link victims to services and support through a one-stop shop.
“The new unit will help victims and their families to access financial assistance, services and practical court support,” Mr Dick said.
Seniors internet launched
The official launch of the Federal Government’s free internet kiosks for seniors has been performed at the Melbourne Legacy Club.
Under the initiative, $15 million is being invested over three years to install up to 2,000 kiosks across the country.
Forty-two kiosks are already operating, with many in regional and rural areas. Over the coming months hundreds of kiosks will be online across the country.
The Federal Government is partnering with NEC Australia, Adult Learning Australia, the Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association and the University of the Third Age Online to provide the free service.
3 September, 2009
PSC guide is good
gear for change
The Public Service Commission has published a Best Practice Guide on change management to assist Departments and Agencies dealing with the challenges of change.The 21-page Guide details five key factors it has identified as common to success in managing organisational change – planning, defined governance, committed leadership, informed stakeholders and an aligned workforce.
In an overview to the publication, the PSC says change can be a time of exciting opportunity for some and a time of loss, disruption or threat to others. The Guide was intended to amplify the former and ease the burdens of the latter, but it was not intended to be prescriptive nor exhaustive.
“A ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to managing change is ineffective, as each public sector organisation is different, with its own structure, history, culture and needs, and each change event is different,” the PSC said.
It said the characteristics of each change (type, breadth, size, origin etc.) also influenced the way change was planned and effectively managed.
“Despite the range of approaches to change management, some common factors for delivering successful change exist. These factors apply across all large and complex
organisations, whether public or private,” the PSC said.
The Guide was intended as a tool to disseminate ideas and best practice guidance on these common change success factors and the sorts of actions that public sector organisations can undertake to address them
The PSC said change was an inherent characteristic of any organisation and like it or not, all organisations, whether in the public or private sector, must change to remain relevant.
“Change can originate from external sources through technological advances, social, political or economic pressures, or it can come from inside the organisation as a management response to a range of issues such as changing client needs, costs or a human resource or performance issue,” it said.
“It can affect one small area or the entire organisation. Nevertheless, all change whether from internal or external sources, large or small, involves adopting new mindsets, processes, policies, practices and behaviour.”
3 September, 2009
Program limbers up
flexible workplaces
A program of promoting flexible workplace practices in government and the business community in the Brisbane CBD has been flagged by the Minister for Transport, Rachel Nolan, following a successful trial in July.Ms Nolan said the aim was to address congestion and the results showed a 34 per cent reduction in morning peak hour travel and a 32 per cent reduction in afternoon peak hour travel.”
She said 87 per cent of participants experienced an improvement in their work/life balance and 92 per cent of participants would like to continue working flexibly.
"Results from the pilot have been positive, showing both an increase in productivity plus more time for family and lifestyle," Ms Nolan said.
"Commuting outside of peak times, or telecommuting, can make a significant impact to the levels of congestion in South-East Queensland.
She said improved travel experience, including less traffic, was cited as the number one benefit by pilot participants.
"By encouraging working from home or staggering work hours, we can ease traffic congestion and promote a better work-life balance," Ms Nolan said.
A new TravelSmart Workplaces project would also target Queensland’s workforces to further reduce congestion.
"TravelSmart Workplaces is a $4.7 million project to engage major Queensland workplaces in developing sustainable transport options for staff," the Minister said.
"These plans will be designed to encourage people to replace some of their car trips with walking, jogging, cycling or public transport.”
3 September, 2009
Pay agreement centres
on core Departments
The Queensland Public Sector Union has negotiated the largest ever payrise in the QPS, following resolution of issues relating to some staff in the Department of Transport and Main Roads.The new package, which will be backdated to 1 August 2009, will include a pay rise of 4.5 per cent for the first year, and 4.0 per cent for the next two years, or $34 a week, whichever is the greater increase.
Payments are expected to flow through to workers by October or November.
The QPSU said the Government had been holding up the settlement of an in-principle agreement by not coming to a clear position on what agreements will cover workers in the new Department of Transport and Main Roads.
“The Government has now agreed to progress the issue of what agreement will cover these workers based on a determination of the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission,” the union said.
“Any members in the Department of Transport and Main Roads that are held by the Industrial Court of Queensland to be legally entitled to coverage under the Main Roads Agreement will retain those entitlements and only those members who have no legal entitlement to the Main Roads agreement will be included in the core ballot.”
The decision allowed complex issues concerning agreement coverage in the Department of Transport and Main Roads to be resolved without disadvantaging any workers and without holding up further progress in finalising the core agreement.
The QPSU said the other outstanding matter concerned hours of work. The Government had agreed to hold a ballot of directly-affected employees before it imposes changes to the spread of their working hours.
It would continue negotiations around minimum standards for flexible hours of work arrangements that will then be implemented through a change to the Public Service Award.
3 September, 2009
Healthy results from
ambulance survey
The Minister for Emergency Services, Neil Roberts has described the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) as one of the best in the country.He said that in 2008-09 QAS officers delivered more than 860,000 responses to Queenslanders in need.
“QAS response times to emergencies are amongst the best in the country – in 2008-09, 50 per cent of emergencies were attended to in 8.4 minutes compared to 10.3 minutes in New South Wales,” Mr Roberts said.
“In 90 per cent of cases Queensland ambulance officers responded to emergencies within 17.2 minutes.”
Queensland also has the best ambulance officer-to- population ratio in the country. With one ambulance officer to every 1,544 people compared to the national average of one officer to every 2,095 people.
Mr Roberts said that over the past two Budgets, the number of ambulance officers had increased by 505, with another 50 to be employed in the next 12 months.
Some 285 new and replacement ambulance vehicles had also been funded, with another 150 to be delivered this financial year.
The Minister said the QAS budget had increased by 79 per cent since the introduction of the Community Ambulance Cover (CAC) levy in 2003.
“Recent clinical advances implemented by QAS paramedics over the past few years have been spectacular,” he said.
“Our intensive care paramedics now deliver clot-busting heart drugs to patients in their own homes or in the community – previously these drugs were only available in a hospital environment. No other State provides this level of service.”
3 September, 2009
Indigenous reps
back on track
A Steering Committee led by Federal Social Justice Commissioner, Tom Calma has called for an independent Indigenous representative body to work with Government, industry and the community to achieve self-determination for Indigenous Australians.The Indigenous Steering Committee was commissioned by the Commonwealth Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, in December 2008 to undertake consultations and develop a model for a new national Indigenous representative body.
The Steering Committee’s report, Our future in our hands - creating a sustainable national representative body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, proposes an independent body be set up that contains an equal number of men and women in leadership roles and subject to strict ethical standards.
“This model is about a way forward,” Commissioner Calma said, “that is focused on the future and flexible enough to adapt to new or emerging priorities.
“What we are proposing today will be radically different from anything we have ever seen in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander affairs. It will certainly not be ‘business as usual’.”
He said the new body should be a private company limited by guarantee and should be funded by the Australian Government on a recurrent basis for an initial five-year period, subject to negotiation thereafter.
Commissioner Calma said it should also be granted Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status to enable it to raise corporate support and donations.
Key components of the proposed body include a National Executive led by full-time male and female co-chairs; a National Congress that would be the primary accountability mechanism; an annual congress to set national policies and priorities; an Ethics Council; and an administrative or Executive Support Unit.
“We have proposed a body that will exhibit the highest standards of ethical conduct and will set a new benchmark for gender equality in national organisations – which all Australians can learn from,” Commissioner Calma said.
Ms Macklin welcomed the report and congratulated the Steering Committee and Commissioner Calma.
She said the Government would consider the report and respond appropriately.
“The proposed model sets a high benchmark for strong, responsible and strategic leadership,” Ms Macklin said.
“They have aimed to create a body which will build a clear vision for a positive future for Indigenous Australians, through research, policy development and advocacy.”
She said the Federal Government would be prepared to provide “modest and appropriate recurrent funding” for the body once it was established and would provide support in its establishment phase.
Ms Macklin said the new body “would not be an ATSIC.”
A copy of the report was available from www.humanrights.gov.au.
3 September, 2009
Safety awards
in good hands
The Minister for Corrective Services and Emergency Serviceshas recognised the achievements of staff from the Department of Community Safety at an awards ceremony in Brisbane. The Minister, Neil Roberts, said a total of 33 nominations had been received for the 2009 Minister’s Awards for Excellence with two entries being highly commended and awards presented to winners in eight categories.
“This year’s awards recognise outstanding achievements, innovations and leadership across the Department and have shown once again that our Emergency and Corrective Services staff continues to set a benchmark for Queensland communities,” Mr Roberts said.
“Many creative initiatives were recognised at this year’s awards including recruitment campaigns, safer management procedures, community disaster assistance projects and training programs which ensure the safety of staff and a safer community for all Queenslanders.”
Mr Roberts said teams from the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS), Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) and Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) were among the award recipients for 2009.
“The initiatives acknowledged today are driving improvements at national and international levels as emergency and corrective services continue to work together to enhance community safety,” he said.
Nominations and winners from the Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Community Safety now go forward to contest the Premiers Awards for Excellence.
Winners were:
Leadership Excellence (joint winner) – Return Home and Custodial Correctional Officer Recruitment Campaigns;
Innovation and Creativity – “Hidden Danger” procedure for safe management of contaminated equipment;
Engaging and Serving Communities – Ingham flood relief operations;
Building Queensland’s Regions – Work Program – Community Disaster Assistance Projects;
Sustainable Environment – Bulimba Creek Catchment Project;
Growing Queensland’s Economy – Banana Blankeys Project; and
Zero Harm – Focusing on Our People – QAS Manual Handling Program.
3 September, 2009
Roads alliance meets
traffic safety head on
An alliance between the Department of Transport and Main Roads and the Local Government Association (LGAQ) has resulted in the launch of a State-wide project to improve road safety by identifying locations of high risk. Minister for Main Roads, Craig Wallace said the initiative was being managed through a joint body called the Roads Alliance.
“The initiative will enable targeted treatment of high-risk locations across the State’s roads,” Mr Wallace said.
“The project will be using NetRisk, a world class network safety assessment tool that uses video data to identify high risk locations for road authorities to investigate, prioritise and treat dangerous locations.”
Specially fitted vehicles would be travelling across the State over the next 12 months collecting video footage of the road network.
“This detailed video footage will enable State and Councils to target where work is needed most,” the Minister said.
President of the LGAQ, Paul Bell said the arrangement would benefit Local Governments across the State.
“This arrangement will allow regional Councils to continue to improve road safety and gain best value for money in these times of increasing economic pressure,” Mr Bell said.
“It will enable Councils to put funding where it is most needed and make an important investment to the future of road safety in Queensland communities.”
3 September, 2009
Planning panel is
big-ticket item
A new panel has been established to advise the Government on urban development and infrastructure projects.Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, Stirling Hinchliffe said the panel, which will be called the Board for Urban Places, would work in all areas of the State.
It would be chaired by Queensland Government Architect, Philip Follent with each meeting to feature between five and 12 experts.
“These highly skilled architects, planners and project managers will provide general and project-specific advice so future urban areas are better designed,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“This advisory board is non-statutory so it cannot approve projects or take town planning powers from Councils.”
Its remit would include providing much-needed expert urban design, planning, architecture, sustainability and sub-tropical design advice in the development stages of major urban infrastructure, planning projects and policies.
“This expertise should result in better outcomes for businesses and residents, reduced environmental costs and healthier Queenslanders,” the Minister said.
“The Premier and relevant Ministers can all ask the Board to provide advice on State or regionally significant projects that are near significant civic or open areas, a major river or place of heritage significance, have links with public transport, health, educational, cultural or entertainment facilities, are a significant community facility or asset or involved the creation of new streets or the revitalisation of existing ones.”
The board is expected to meet at least several times a year and the first meeting is likely to be held by mid-October, once members have undergone induction.
3 September, 2009
Taxis fare well in
mystery audit
An independent audit of the taxi industry has found that most drivers are pleasant and well groomed with a good local knowledge of key destinations. Minister for Transport, Rachel Nolan said mystery shoppers, posing as real passengers, found almost all the taxi drivers secretly audited also took the most efficient route and charged the correct fare.
“The results are extremely encouraging – the vast majority of taxi drivers across Queensland do the right thing and provide a quality service to passengers,” Ms Nolan said.
“Any gaps in service delivery identified by the mystery passengers will assist to inform the Department’s planning in regard to rules and regulations for the taxi industry.”
The independent mystery passenger audit is a key component of the Government’s Taxi Reform Package. Other changes include the requirement that taxi driver applicants have held an Australian licence for at least one year, and be at least 20.
Ms Nolan said the mystery passengers found that in 92 per cent of all trips undertaken, the passenger felt the driver was easy to understand; 92 per cent believed the driver was pleasant throughout the trip and in 94 per cent of trips undertaken passengers felt the driver took the most cost-efficient route.
“In addition, 96 per cent of drivers secretly audited were found to be tidy and well groomed, and more than 80 per cent of taxis were clean inside and out. Importantly, 97 per cent confirmed they were charged the correct fare,” the Minister said.
While the audit had identified some issues with taxi services, the Department would work closely with the taxi industry to improve adherence to rules and regulations.
“We recognise that some improvements still need to be made, but this audit clearly indicates that the taxi industry, its drivers and the Department are on the right track where customer service is concerned,” Ms Nolan said.
3 September, 2009
DERM sticks neck out
to help turtles
Data compiled by the Department of Environment and Resource Management’s Chief Scientist, Col Limpus, shows a recovery in the population of endangered loggerhead turtles.Premier Anna Bligh said that since 2000 the previous long term decline in nesting loggerhead turtle numbers had been reversed.
“It’s expected loggerhead female numbers would now be more than 600,” Ms Bligh said.
Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Kate Jones said this was a remarkable success story.
“It can be attributed in no small part to the Queensland Government’s habitat protection program,” she said.
“Loggerhead turtles that breed in eastern Australia enjoy some of the most extensive habitat protection afforded in the world.
Ms Jones said a major measure contributing to the population turnaround was the Queensland Government’s push for the regulated use of turtle exclusion devices (TEDs).
“TEDs act like a filter on trawling nests and allow the loggerheads and other turtles to escape the net’s coverage,” she said.
“The regulated use of these devices in the trawl fisheries of eastern and northern Australia has been effective in reducing turtle deaths.”
Ms Jones launched this year’s Cut the Glow campaign which is proving to be an effective way of protecting the loggerheads.”
“Bright lights and sea turtles don’t mix - during the breeding season, from October to April, artificial lights from coastal communities disorientate hatchlings, and turtles about to lay.”
Residents have been asked to support the campaign by turning off unnecessary lighting, closing curtains and blinds, installing sensor lights, planting vegetation to create a light buffer and, for campers, shading lights.
3 September, 2009
Finance watchdog
gets sharper teeth
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission is to receive stronger powers to help regulate financial markets.Under changes announced jointly by the Treasurer, Wayne Swan and Minister for Financial Services and Corporate Law, Chris Bowen ASIC will be empowered to supervise real-time trading on all of Australia’s domestic licensed markets and be responsible for enforcing laws against misconduct on financial markets.
Mr Swan and Mr Bowen said the changes would enhance the integrity of Australia’s financial markets.
“Australia's financial system has performed better than any other during the global recession and these reforms will ensure that Australia's regulatory arrangements remain among the best in the world,” Mr Swan said.
Mr Bowen said it was more appropriate for a Government Agency to perform these functions, as opposed to the current arrangement, which requires individual financial markets to self-supervise trading on their own markets.
“Having one whole-of-market supervisor will consolidate the current individual supervisory responsibilities into one entity, streamlining supervision and enforcement, and providing complete supervision of trading on the market,” he said.
“Moving to whole-of-market supervision is also the first step in the process towards considering competition between market operators.”
Mr Bowen said under the changes, ASIC would be responsible for supervising trading activities by broker participants taking place on a licensed financial market, while individual markets – such as the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) - would retain responsibility for supervising the entities listed on them.
“The supervision of listed entities raises a different set of issues,” he said.
“The Government is comfortable that there is no need for the Government to supervise listed entities.
“ASIC and the ASX are working well together in performing this role.”
Mr Bowen said the legislation was expected to be introduced into Parliament next year, with ASIC to begin performing its new functions in the third quarter of 2010.
3 September, 2009
Resources plan is
green for go
A new natural resource management plan for South East Queensland has been released to help balance the area’s environmental future with the pressures of population growth and climate change.Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy, Stephen Robertson said the South-East Queensland Natural Resource Management Plan 2009-2031 set out targets to protect and conserve the environmental value of the region.
“By 2031, Queensland’s population is expected to reach around four million, an increase of more than one million over two decades,” Mr Robertson said.
“The pressures of such rapid growth include increased demand for infrastructure, housing, essential services and consumables.”
The Minister said that a sustainable environment and natural resource management was critical for the region’s long term ‘livability’ and economic prosperity.
“To meet these challenges the South-East Queensland Natural Resource Management Plan (SEQ NRM) sets targets in the areas of air and atmosphere; community; nature conservation; coastal and marine; land including agricultural land and regional landscapes,” he said.
“Implementation of the SEQ NRM Plan will help us to continue to work towards good quality water, air and soil, as well as healthy waterways, wetlands, rainforests, woodlands and coastal environments and protect the great Queensland lifestyle we currently enjoy.”
The plan was the result of many organisations working together with the State and Local Governments to ensure the best possible result.
“In total more than 1,000 people were consulted in the development of the plan,” Mr Robertson said.
3 September, 2009
Feds urged to fire up
clean coal projects
Two major projects to develop low-emission coal technology and introduce carbon capture and storage to Queensland have been nominated as the State’s preferred recipients of funding under the Commonwealth’s $2 billion Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Flagships Program.Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy, Stephen Robertson said the Government has nominated two Queensland projects for funding under the Commonwealth’s $2 billion Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Flagships Program.
They include an industrial-scale Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) power station combined with carbon capture and storage and an accelerated carbon storage work program to identify and assess suitable sites for the long-term safe storage of carbon dioxide in Queensland.
Mr Robertson said low emission coal technologies and CCS will be critical to ensuring sustainable electricity supplies and a clean energy future for Queensland.
“We have nominated two IGCC-CCS power station projects as options for funding under the first category – the 400 megawatt ZeroGen proposal, which is being developed in conjunction with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and the 334 megawatt Wandoan proposal by GE Energy and Xstrata,” Mr Robertson said
“The second component of Queensland’s nomination focuses on accelerating the assessment of carbon storage opportunities in priority basins like the Surat, Bowen and Eromanga basins.”
The Minister said that together, low emission coal technologies and CCS had the potential to significantly reduce the level of carbon dioxide emissions from coal-fired power stations.
The Government had established the Queensland Clean Coal Council in 2007 to facilitate the development and commercial deployment of low emission coal technologies before 2020.
“We have also committed in principle around $900 million to support low emission coal demonstration projects,” he said.
3 September, 2009
Watchdog happy with
dingo policy
The Department of Environment and Resource Managementhas announced the result of an independent audit of Fraser Island dingo management.The audit, by internationally recognised dingo expert, Laurie Corbett, has confirmed the Queensland Government’s control strategy is working.
Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Kate Jones said the audit, incorporating more than 70 public submissions, had been completed and was available on the Department’s website.
“The dingo management strategy, prepared in 2001 and fully revised in 2006, provides the blueprint to reduce the risk posed to humans by dingoes and to ensure we conserve a sustainable population of dingoes on this World Heritage-listed island,” Ms Jones said.
“In particular Dr Corbett has endorsed our actions to reduce risk through better education of visitors, training of rangers and erecting dingo fencing in strategic locations.”
The Minister said data from the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPSW) showed there have been no aggressive incidents within the fenced areas around the main camping grounds, Kingfisher Bay Resort and other townships.
“Dr Corbett also endorsed the substantial increase in training of QPWS staff on the island in dingo management to help visitors be dingo wise.”
Ms Jones said critics of the strategy claimed the dingo population was becoming extinct, starving, or otherwise in decline.
“The audit has confirmed that Fraser dingoes are not starving,” she said.
“Best science suggests the population is viable and in good health across the island, with between 100 and 200 animals depending on the time of year and the season.”
3 September, 2009
Vietnam war study
set to go off
A study into the long-term effects of the Vietnam War on veterans’ families is set to go ahead now that the target number of participants had been achieved.But more participants would still be welcome.
Federal Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, said over 13,000 randomly selected Vietnam veterans, Vietnam-era Army personnel who did not deploy to Vietnam and their children had registered in the intergenerational study.
“These are the key groups that were required to take part in sufficient numbers to make the study scientifically robust,” Mr Griffin said.
“Additional partners, siblings, nieces, nephews and other family members of Vietnam veterans and Vietnam-era Army personnel have also registered.”
The study will examine the long term effects of the war and if any health differences could be attributed to it.
“The impact of service in Vietnam, beyond veterans to the impact on their loved ones, has been a concern for many years,” Mr Griffin said.
“This study will help us to better understand what those impacts are and what action should be taken to assist those who need help.
“It will also help us to understand any issues resulting from more recent deployments and the implications for the families of the veterans of today and tomorrow.”
Mr Griffin said the study comprised of several components and work had already commenced on some projects.
An independent scientific advisory committee, chaired by Professor Bryan Rodgers, will ensure the research component of the study is undertaken in a sound scientific manner. Registrations are still open to participate in the study, with further information available from www.dva.gov.au or 1800 502 302.
3 September, 2009
Sculpture honour is
affair of the art
A sculpture by Torres Strait Islander artist, Ken Thaiday Senior has been acquired for the Australian Embassy in Washington.Minister for Trade, Stephen Robertson said the acquisition would contribute to raising the artist’s international profile.
“Artists whose works are held in international collections are often more highly valued and seen as stable in the market. Their works are sought after by private collectors, curators and directors of art around the world,” Mr Robertson said.
“The entry of Ken Thaiday Senior’s art, and entry of other Queensland Indigenous art into overseas art collections, is part of a Government strategy to strengthen interest in Queensland Indigenous art within the international market.”
Mr Robertson said the Queensland Indigenous Arts Marketing and Export Agency (QIAMEA) – an arm of Trade Queensland - negotiated to permanently place the sculpture in the Embassy’s extensive collection.
Ken Thaiday Senior was born in 1950 and is from Darnley Island in the Torres Strait.
He is widely known for his sculptures - articulated dance headdresses and dance ‘machines’. Each of his works relates directly to the cultural life and ceremonies of the Erub people of Darnley Island.
He is already represented in regional and State collections throughout Australia, including the National Gallery of Australia, National Museum of Australia, National Museum of Victoria, Queensland Art Gallery, National Maritime Museum, Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory and, overseas, in the collection of the Tjibaou Cultural Centre, New Caledonia.
3 September, 2009
Perfect 10 for diving review
An industry reference group has been established by Workplace Health and Safety (WHSQ) to assist in a review of the State’s recreational diving safety codes.Industrial Relations Minister, Cameron Dick said recreational diving drew large numbers of tourists and backpackers to Queensland.
“Queensland has an international reputation as the home of some of the safest and most spectacular dive experiences in the world,” Mr Dick said.
“The establishment of the Recreational Diving Reference Group is a proactive initiative to develop even stronger awareness throughout the industry about the benefits and necessity of strong safety standards. “
It sent a clear message that safety was the number one priority of the diving industry.
Mr Dick said the group will be made up of key industry figures from all three of the main recreational diving regions in the State – Cairns and Port Douglas, the Whitsundays, Wide Bay and South East Queensland.
It would consist of employers and unions, small and large recreational diving tour operators, diver training companies and technical experts.
“The group will review the Recreational Technical Diving Code of Practice 2006 and the Compressed Air Recreational Diving and Snorkeling Code of Practice 2005, which provide practical advice on how to manage risks,” Mr Dick said.
“Leading dive operators from across the State attended Ministerial Roundtables held by WHSQ for the industry in January and July to discuss emerging issues and how safety standards could be further improved in the industry,” he said.
“We must do this because, while the annual death toll has steadily decreased since 2002, on average there are between four and six diving and snorkeling fatal workplace incidents each year.”
3 September, 2009
Plan to increase Indigenous employment
Moves to boost the number of Indigenous Public Servants are being led by the Public Service Commission (PSC).
The Commission is working with the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation and the Department of Communities across all Government portfolios to address the issue of attraction and retention of Indigenous Public Servants.
A statement from the PSC said Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples were a significant and important population within Queensland and the issues impacting on gaining better employment and training outcomes for Indigenous Queenslanders were complex and dynamic.
Tourism campaign success
Tourism Queensland’s recent marketing campaigns have generated more than $8 million in total sales for Queensland.
Describing the result as “absolutely outstanding”, Minister for Tourism, Peter Lawlor said everyone benefitted from a flow-on effect from tourism.
“Despite the most difficult economic period in recent times, these campaigns have exceeded all expectations, and could fuel up to an estimated $21 million in visitor expenditure for Queensland,” Mr Lawlor said.
“Results like this reinforce more than ever that Queensland is still the favourite holiday playground.”
Healthy winners announced
Winners have been announced in the inaugural Healthy Queensland Awards.
The awards are designed to recognise and reward communities, schools and workplaces across Queensland for healthy living programs and initiatives.
The Texas Visitors Association and the Gladstone Regional Council jointly took out the healthiest community title.
Queensland’s healthiest workplace is Jellinbah Mining which operates in the Bowen Basin; Emmanuel College on the Gold Coast took out the healthiest school award.
Discrimination fines
Individuals or organisations who refuse service to anyone with a disability who has a guide, hearing or assistance dog, face increased penalties.
Minister for Disability Services, Annastacia Palaszczuk said fines would significantly increase under the new Guide, Hearing and Assistance Dogs Act 2009.
“Hefty fines of up to $10,000 for individuals and up to $50,000 for businesses now apply for refusing access to someone with a highly-trained and certified guide, hearing or assistance dog,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“This means that everyone now has the same access to shops, restaurants, cinemas and entertainment venues, as well as transport services such as buses, taxis and ferries.”
More speed cameras
Two new fixed speed cameras have been installed in South-East Queensland.
Minister for Police, Neil Roberts said the cameras were located on the Warrego Highway at Redwood and on the Gold Coast Highway at Broadbeach.
“These sites were chosen because of a history of serious, speed-related crashes in the vicinity in recent years,” Mr Roberts said.
“The cameras will be an important tool in changing driver behaviour and attitudes and, in turn, reducing the road toll.”
Skateboard ban
In an effort to improve road safety, skateboards, roller-blades and foot scooters will be banned from roads after dark.
Minister for Transport, Rachel Nolan said skateboards and scooters were hard to see at the best of times but at night they could become almost invisible.
Unlike bicycles that could be fitted with lights and reflective gear, people riding skateboards and foot scooters after dark were significantly harder for motorists to see.
The new road rules will come into effect from October.
Coal expansion goes ahead
The largest coal railway expansion in Central Queensland has been commissioned by the Premier, Anna Bligh and Treasurer, Andrew Fraser.
The upgrade of the Jilalan Yard in Central Queensland, which includes major track work and improved maintenance and provisioning facilities, will help the coal industry increase exports by more than $3 billion a year support and create thousands of new jobs.
As part of constructing the project, nearly 1,600 jobs have been created in a project which Ms Bligh described as the cornerstone of Queensland’s future prosperity.
Defence upgrades Lavarack
The Australian Defence Force’s psychological services are to relocate to Lavarack Barracks in North Queensland.
The move is part of a strategy to improve mental health services for ADF personnel in the barracks and is expected to provide better access for ADF members to other health and support personnel including nurses, doctors, social workers, and chaplains.
New defence for killing
The Criminal Code covering murder committed as a result of domestic and family violence will be revised.
The amendments would see the introduction of a new partial defence, reducing murder to manslaughter, for victims of seriously abusive relationships who kill their abusers.
The proposed new defence would apply only in cases where the accused had suffered domestic violence in an abusive domestic relationship; the person had committed acts of serious domestic violence against the accused in the course of that relationship; at the time of the killing the accused believed the act was necessary for preservation from death or grievous bodily harm, there being reasonable grounds for this belief, having regard to the abusive relationship and all the circumstances of the case.
More paramedics
The Queensland Combined Emergency Services Academy(QCESA) has graduated a further 20 paramedics.
Minister for Emergency Services, Neil Roberts said the paramedics have learnt the practical and theoretical skills necessary to provide patients across Queensland with world-class pre-hospital care.
The paramedics will be deployed across five Queensland Ambulance Service regions with 10 posted to Brisbane, five to South Eastern, two to Far Northern, two to Central and one to North Coast.
Directors join Army
One hundred members of the Australian Institute of Company Directors have visited Townsville to experience life in the Australian Defence Force Reserves.
The members viewed water transport assets, inspected military aircraft and participated in a number of other activities.
Defence Reserves Support staff and 11 Brigade soldiers provided information to the AICD members and ensured they understood how the Employer Support Payment Scheme and Office of Reserve Service Protection could help them.
