|
|
SearchArchives for August 2011
25 August, 2011
Responses flow out
of flood inquiry
The Government’s response to the interim report of the Floods Commission of Inquiry has been to put all possible measures in place before the next cyclone season.
Premier, Anna Bligh said the response detailed an additional $14 million in spending over this financial year and a total of $76 million over the next five years to improve disaster response and flood infrastructure management.
“This is on top of what Agencies are already spending in re-prioritising their existing Budgets towards improving our disaster management system,” Ms Bligh said.
“To help improve household disaster preparedness we will launch the Get Ready Queensland campaign which will include sending more than two million Queensland households guides about steps we can all take to get ready for the upcoming storm season.”
She said there would also be an advertising campaign about the dangers of driving into flood waters and a storm and cyclone campaign using the theme Can You Survive for Three Days?
Additional resources and training would be provided to Emergency Services Staff including: 19 new flood boats by the end of 2011; a minimum of 18 new disaster training courses; 2,000 additional participants in the Queensland Disaster Management Arrangements Course by 1 November; and an estimated 200 additional SES volunteers, available by 1 November.
The Premier said that in addition, a total of 253 swift water rescue technicians would be in place by the end of November; personal floatation devices (including for children) and waterproof radios would be available for all frontline personnel during disasters; and 100 helmet kits for the Queensland Fire and Rescue Special Operations Unit by 1 November
Ms Bligh said that a review of the Dam Safety Manual for Wivenhoe and Somerset Dams was well underway.
She confirmed that a dedicated delivery unit had been established within the Department of Premier and Cabinet to ensure that all Agencies were doing everything possible to implement the Floods Inquiry’s recommendations before the next wet season.
25 August, 2011
Treasury sharpens
carbon pencil
A Treasury report on the impact of the carbon tax on Queensland has been issued.
The report sets out in detail a modelling of the carbon pricing proposal and predicts it will have a relatively small economic impact on Queensland over the next decade.
The report says that the effect on growth will be marginal and the economy will grow by 41 per cent despite the carbon price over the 10-year period. .
It says this would be only 0.4 per cent less than without a carbon price – a difference so slight that the average annual growth over the decade is forecast to be 3.5 per cent with or without it.
On the Treasury analysis, Queensland would grow more quickly than the nation and generate higher jobs growth and investment through the next decade, with a carbon price in place.
Introducing the report to Parliament, Treasurer Andrew Fraser said it examined employment, regional economies and specific industry sectors.
“Just as the economy is forecast to grow and grow strongly, so too are jobs,” Mr Fraser said.
“Employment growth will be two per cent out to 2020, generating 474,000 extra jobs over the decade.
He said those parts of Queensland more reliant on mining were still expected to grow strongly, with the carbon price reducing forecast growth by just over one per cent to 2019-20.
“The coal industry will continue to generate growth, generate jobs, generate income for the nation and the State, but now will pay for the pollution that it produces,” Mr Fraser said.
The model found that the carbon price would see potential growth in coal 7.9 per cent lower by 2049-50.
25 August, 2011
Police plug in to
new powers
Changes are proposed to the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act detailing the powers that Queensland police officers have for investigating offences and enforcing the law.
The Act is reviewed every five years to ensure policing powers are adequate and appropriate.
Minister for Police, Neil Roberts said the Government had undertaken a very comprehensive review involving not only the Police Service but also non-Government stakeholders including the Queensland Law Society, Queensland Council for Civil Liberties, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service (Qld) Ltd and the Crime and Misconduct Commission.
“The changes the Government is proposing to make have been a result of the review process and aim to enhance safety for the community and police officers as well as streamlining the Act,” Mr Roberts said.
He said allowing police to search minors suspected of possessing and consuming alcohol in public places would minimise more serious offences being committed.
“Police can already search minors reasonably suspected of possessing a weapon, cans of spray paint or stolen goods,” the Minister said.
“The Government will seek to extend these powers to search for alcohol”.
He said it was also proposed to allow police to act on anonymous complaints of excessive noise.
“This will allow complainants who are scared of reprisals to be able to report excessive noise to police without fear.”
Mr Roberts said the changes would strike the right balance between the powers police needed to protect and serve the community and the rights of those living in the community.
25 August, 2011
After school care
guide passes test
The first national guidelines for after school and vacation care have been released by the Federal Minister for Early Childhood, Peter Garrett.
Mr Garrett said My Time, Our Place – Framework for School Age Care in Australia emphasised the importance of allowing children to learn through fun and playtime.
He said the guidelines would be implemented across the country from the beginning of 2012.
“This is the first time we’ve had a national set of principles for a care sector that is used by a large proportion of Australian families, providing support to working parents and a safe, fun learning environment for school aged children,” Mr Garrett said.
“We know that this is one of the fastest growing sectors in child care – for example, during the December 2010 quarter, almost 256,000 children attended before and after school care, compared to 242,600 children over the same period the year before.”
He said the latest figures represented an increase of 5.5 per cent but until now there had been no national set of standards and expected results.
He said My Time, Our Place was developed for the Australian and State and Territory Governments by school age care expert Dr Jennifer Cartmel of Queensland’s Griffith University, in consultation with peak school age care bodies, educators and parent groups.
Commonwealth Minister for Child Care, Kate Ellis said the aim of the framework was to provide children with a strong sense of identity and wellbeing, to give them confidence and communication skills, and to help them feel connected to the world.
“Children thrive when families, educators, schools and the wider community work together in partnership to support children’s wellbeing and learning,” Ms Ellis said.
“We’re moving away from the highly structured, one size fits all approach and more towards a system of care which responds to the needs and interests of individual children.”
More information on the My Time, Our Place framework is available from this PS News link.
25 August, 2011
Group takes plunge
on dive safety
A new Dive Safety Reference Group to oversee the industry’s safety regime has been announced.
The Reference Group will be chaired by MP for Barron River, Steve Wettenhall and include the Executive Officer of the Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators, Col McKenzie, Heather Thatcher from Fantasea Cruises and representatives from Workplace Health and Safety Queensland.
Minister for Industrial Relations, Cameron Dick said the new Group would meet operators in key locations including Cairns, Townsville, the Whitsundays and the Sunshine Coast to examine how Queensland’s dive industry can be made even safer than it is at present
Mr Dick said it would report on the adequacy of the current regulatory framework for the industry, including its Code of Practice, and look at how it was being implemented to determine whether further regulation was required.
He said it would also look at what other jurisdictions were doing to ensure Queensland’s industry continues to implement a world’s best practice dive safety regime and identify strategies to raise public awareness of dive safety.
Mr Dick said Queensland needed to strive for a zero harm dive industry.
“Recreational diving contributes approximately $1.4 billion to the Queensland economy every year and it is a major driver in our tourism sector,” Mr Dick said.
“This means it is in the interests of all Queenslanders that we continue to have one of the safest diving industries in the world.”
He said Diver Safety Awards would be held for the first time this year as part of Safe Work Week.
“These awards will promote best practice rescue procedures across the industry,” Mr Dick said.
25 August, 2011
Council hopefuls in
first-rate seminars
Information seminars are being held this week and next for Brisbane residents thinking of running for Local Councils.
Four Intending Candidate Seminars are to provide valuable information about the obligations and responsibilities of being a Councillor and how to nominate in next year’s elections.
Minister for Local Government, Paul Lucas said the Local Government elections in March 2012 would provide an opportunity for many Queenslanders to take an active role in the decision-making that affected their local communities.
“Local Government elections play an important role in our democratic system and these seminars are designed to provide information on how Local Government in Queensland works,” Mr Lucas said.
“This program is about providing intending candidates with the resources they need to make an informed choice about running for public office.
“It provides people with an understanding of the challenges of representing local communities and making informed decisions in the public interest.”
He said the program was being delivered by trained regional staff who provided valuable insight into how Councils operated and what it meant to be a Councillor.
“They are a useful source of information not only for potential candidates, but also for people wanting to know more about the process of Local Government,” Mr Lucas said.
“The seminars are free to attend, but registration is essential.”
He said next week’s seminars would be held at Carina on 30 August 2011and Sunnybank on 31 August and more information was available from this PS News link.
25 August, 2011
Airport suburb
takes off
Brisbane Airport has been officially named as a suburb consisting of parts of Eagle Farm and a small area of Pinkenba.
The move was made after public consultation indicated the area was already widely recognised as Brisbane Airport both locally and internationally.
Minister for Natural Resources, Rachel Nolan said this meant that the area would now hold the title for the legal and practical purposes of addressing.
Ms Nolan said suburb boundaries on a number of Queensland Place Name Plans had been altered to accommodate the change.
“The boundaries of Eagle Farm and Pinkenba have been altered as well as the boundaries of Hamilton to include the redeveloped residential and commercial precinct of Northshore Hamilton which was previously part of Eagle Farm,” Ms Nolan said.
She said copies of the Queensland Place Name plans which illustrate the changes are available from the business centre of the Department of Environment and Resource Management located on Level 2 of the Landcentre building on the corner of Main and Vulture Streets, Woolloongabba.
They can also be downloaded from Queensland Place Names at this PS News link.
Further information about the boundary changes may be obtained directly from DERM by contacting the Senior Spatial Information Officer on 3406 2546.
25 August, 2011
Drink Safe Precincts
‘working well’
Drink Safe Precincts around three of the State’s most popular nightspots are continuing to perform well six months after they came into operation.
Deputy Premier, Paul Lucas said an extra police presence has had a major impact, with more than 2,200 people arrested, 1,300 people moved on and 32 people banned from the Precincts in Surfers Paradise, Townsville and Fortitude Valley.
Mr Lucas said it was important that the thousands of people who visited the popular entertainment precincts on a Friday or Saturday nights should be able to do so in a safe environment.
“We are serious about cracking down on violence, crime and anti-social behaviour in these nightspots so everyone can enjoy a safe night out,” Mr Lucas said.
The six-month snapshot revealed that officers have made 2,284 arrests, mostly for good order and liquor type offences and the people banned from the precincts couldn’t go there for up to 13 months.
Mr Lucas said police used conflict intervention strategies 1,681 times and took 715 people to safe zones to rest and recuperate.
A total of 173 people were taken into detention for breaches of the peace and 125 were handed over to Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics for medical attention.
Mr Lucas said initiatives such as secure taxi ranks, better public transport signage and the introduction of patron support services had also helped people enjoy their nights out and get home safely.
Officers from the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR) had also played an integral part in ensuring pubs and clubs were adhering to their obligations under the Liquor Act 1992.
“In the first six months of the trial, OLGR officers conducted 19 joint operations targeting non-compliance by licensed premises in the Drink Safe Precincts,” Mr Lucas said.
25 August, 2011
Building energy
scheme renovated
The national rating system for energy efficient buildings has been increased from five to six stars.
The six-star National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS) was launched in Sydney by the Chief Executive of the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, Lisa Corbyn.
The NSW Office administers NABERS, which is a national system.
Ms Corbyn said the extra star acknowledged that the Australian property industry was reaching a standard previously considered beyond world’s best practice.
She said NABERS included tools for Energy, Water, Waste and Indoor Environment.
“In the 10 years since the NSW Government introduced the first environmental performance rating for offices, Australian commercial buildings have become so much more efficient the time has come to introduce a sixth star,” Ms Corbyn said.
“This is a move that was called for by top performers in the commercial property industry who are already moving beyond NABERS five-star excellence towards a market-leading six star goal.”
She said office buildings using NABERS to measure and manage energy and water use improved greenhouse performance by an average11.5 per cent and water efficiency by 9 per cent.
The launch also saw the presentation of the first seventeen 5.5 and 6 star NABERS Energy and Water rating certificates to office buildings, tenancies, hotels and shopping centres in NSW that achieved “market leading performance and efficiency”.
Ms Corbyn said a further 30 buildings which had gone beyond five stars in water and emissions savings through purchasing GreenPower or recycled water in NSW would also receive 5.5 or 6 star certificates.
She said 60 per cent of Australian office space has been rated with NABERS Energy, 68 per cent of it in NSW.
She said around 5 per cent of rated buildings were currently achieving a 5 star rating which had been set as an aspirational target in 2000.
A 6-star rating would be awarded for ‘Market Leading’ performance, and would represent a 50 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions or water use from 5 stars.
More information about the system is available from this PS News link.
25 August, 2011
Skilled students get
three-year welcome
Three-year working visas for international graduates in areas of skills shortages have been secured nationally after lobbying from Queensland.
The State placed the issue of international education on the Council of Australian Governments agenda at its recent meeting as a result of declining numbers of international students in recent years.
Premier, Anna Bligh said Australia was on the cusp of a resources boom but was facing a looming skills crisis.
“We shouldn’t be discouraging young, enthusiastic workers who are keen to fill these roles,” Ms Bligh said.
The international education and training sector was the State’s third largest export earner, directly and indirectly employing more than 17,000 Queenslanders.
“But the 2009 changes to arrangements for student visas have been really hurting this market,” she said.
“It was imperative that we act and act decisively.
“We have to make ourselves a more attractive and accessible destination in a very competitive global education system.”
Ms Bligh said the resources sector alone would generate 38,000 jobs in the next few years and unprecedented opportunities for Australian graduates in key disciplines such as engineering, environmental science, metallurgy, as well as law, hospitality, accounting and management.
“And we want to ensure that we are maximising these opportunities for Australian graduates,” she said.
Ms Bligh also welcomed a commitment from the Federal Government to publish the Knight Review of the student visa program and to work with the States and Territories to develop a response by October.
25 August, 2011
Science awards go
off with a bang
Science teachers and students are among those recognised as winners of the 2011 Peter Doherty Awards for Excellence in Science and Science Education.
The awards encourage Queenslanders to pursue careers in science, engineering, technology and innovation, and reward achievements in those sectors.
Minister for Education, Cameron Dick said winners would share in $89,000 prize money allowing them to continue their work and science studies.
Mr Dick said 10 senior school students would also receive Outstanding Senior Science Student Awards, with each prize worth $2,000, while seven exceptional teachers would receive prizes of $5,000 each in the Outstanding Teachers of Science Awards category
He said the awards were named after leading Queensland scientist and Nobel Laureate Peter Doherty who was named Australian of the Year in 1997.
Professor Doherty and his Swiss colleague, Rolf Zinkernagel, were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1996 for discovering the nature of cellular immune defence.
Mr Dick congratulated the award winners who were:
Science Education Partnership and Community Science Awards - $3,000:
- Peter Darben, University of Queensland Diamantina Institute
- Rose-Marie Thrupp, Central Queensland University (Bundaberg campus)
Professional Science Leadership Award - $5,000:
- Stephen Baskerville, Kirwan State High School (Townsville)
- Rob Callin, Smithfield State High School (Cairns)
- Colleen Way, Ingham State School (North Queensland)
Outstanding Science Support Officer Award - $5,000:
- Anita List, Aldridge State High School
- Gwenda Tudman, Maroochydore State High School
Outstanding Senior Science Student Award - $2,000:
- Melissa Buchholz, Western Cape College - Weipa Campus
- Suzanne Dunning, Kilcoy State High School
- Brock Lowrey, A.B. Paterson College (Gold Coast)
- Connor Mooney-Collett, Sandgate District State High School
- Ryan Rains, Kirwan State High School (Townsville)
- Samuel Rudge, Townsville State High School
- Melody Ting Ting Tai, Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology (Toowong)
Outstanding Teachers of Science Award - $5,000:
- Jan Connolly, Dunwich State School Secondary Department
- Robyn Flexman, Alexandra Hills State High School
- Ray Grundy, Woree State High School
- Roanna Hall, Urangan State High School
- Eamon Hickey, Clontarf Beach State High School
- Tracy Oades, Innisfail State College
- Linda Pilkington, Peregian Springs State School
25 August, 2011
Scammers cashing
in on tax returns
The Australian Taxation Commissioner has issued a public warning for people to watch out for tax-related scams at this time of year.
The Commissioner, Michael D’Ascenzo said typically the ATO saw a spike in scams each year around tax time.
“Anyone can be the target of a scam, and sometimes scams are so sophisticated and authentic in appearance that even the most alert can be caught out,” Mr D’Ascenzo said.
“Scammers can use a range of methods including phone calls, letters, text messages, emails, bogus websites, computer viruses and even false advertisements to try to fool people into giving away their money, passwords and personal details.”
He said once scammers had personal information they could steal a person’s identity and commit fraud against them, with potentially serious consequences such as the theft of funds.
“The ATO is aware of a number of scams currently in operation where scammers contact victims claiming to be from the ATO and offer them a tax refund in exchange for payment and their personal details,” he said.
“The ATO will never ask you to pay money to receive your tax refund or any special government payment and does not ask for personal information such your bank account details using email.”
Mr D’Ascenzo said the ATO also did not charge for the use of online tools such as e-tax.
“If something seems suspicious, too good to be true, asks you for personal details or cannot be verified by contacting an official source, it is likely to be a scam and you should report it,” he said.
“The ATO uses a range of intelligence to crack down on scammers including reports from the community.”
He said common scams reported to the ATO included cold-call emails or calls asking victims to pay money for or provide their personal details in order to obtain a tax refund; and fake e-tax notification emails encouraging victims to ‘click links’ to download other malware including malicious versions of e-tax.
Mr D’Ascenzo said more information was available from this PS News link.
25 August, 2011
Lifesavers on
crest of a wave
Formal recognition in disaster management legislation is to be given to Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ).
The move is part of the Government’s response to the Floods Inquiry and is an acknowledgement of the contribution surf lifesavers provided during this year’s floods and cyclone.
Premier, Anna Bligh said disaster management legislation would be amended to formalise surf lifesaving’s role and involvement in the State Disaster Management Group before the start of the next wet season.
“During the floods, surf lifesavers sent about 30 rubber duckies and rescue crews to Brisbane,” Ms Bligh said.
“More than 230 members assisted with the emergency response.”
She said SLSQ’s helicopter was also responsible for rescuing seven people from the Lockyer Valley as well as conducting 23 searches in the area.
She said the lifesavers’ operations presented significant opportunities for partnership including two helicopters, water craft, all-terrain and 4WD vehicles, a range of lifesaving equipment and 35,000 volunteers.
Ms Bligh said the use of those facilities would supplement, not replace, the need for additional emergency services and equipment to support the implementation of the Floods Inquiry’s recommendations.
“While surf lifesavers will always remain focused on Queensland beaches, their emergency response trained groups stationed across the State will provide considerable assistance during disaster events,” Ms Bligh said.
25 August, 2011
Mine jobs dig
in for jobless
A plan to seek new workers for the resources industry from coastal areas with high unemployment has been agreed to between the Government and mining interests.
Under the plan Work for Queensland jobs expos will be held in Cairns, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, the Whitsunday region and Wide Bay Burnett starting in October.
Premier, Anna Bligh said that as many as 38,000 construction and operation jobs would be created in the Queensland resources sector between now and 2014-2015
“The resources sector has committed to identifying the jobs and skills required immediately and in the longer term and bringing those vacancies to the expos,” Ms Bligh said.
“We have also secured the support of five Regional Councils to help us tap into these new pools of resource workers.”
She said the Government would host the Mining and Gas Jobs Expos in October with the support of Local Councils.
“TAFE Queensland will also be there offering training to people interested in mining industry jobs and Skilling Solutions Queensland will be on hand to conduct skills assessments and provide career advice,” Ms Bligh said.
“We’re taking action now to ensure Queenslanders don’t miss out on significant career opportunities.
“The resources sector will benefit because mining companies will have access to a skilled local workforce,” the Premier said.
25 August, 2011
Survey cooks up
food figures
A survey conducted by the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI) has shown that cafes and restaurants in the Gympie and Sunshine Coast region were overwhelmingly buying locally-grown foods.
The Creating Local Food Connections Survey studied the attitudes and purchasing behaviours of 103 local restaurants, cafes and catering organisations in the area
Minister for Tourism, Manufacturing and Small Business, Jan Jarratt said the majority of survey respondents – 92 per cent – purchased local foods, with 74 per cent saying they were committed to doing so.
Ms Jarratt said the detail provided by local chefs and restaurant managers regarding difficulties in sourcing local foods would inform region-wide strategies and intervention programs to assist the local food sector.
Acting Director for DEEDI at the Sunshine Coast, Brian Stockwell is leading an initiative to buy more locally-produced food in partnership with the Department’s Gympie centre and the Gympie Regional Council Economic Development Unit.
“While committed to local food suppliers, often chefs and/or restaurant managers had difficulty in knowing where to source local foods, or had difficulties with inconsistent supplies,” Mr Stockwell said.
“Restaurants and cafes also indicated they were affected by the downturn in tourism, so general economic conditions and rising overheads were also highlighted as concerns for the industry.”
Despite this, he said there was an enormous opportunity to link local growers with local food outlets better and help overcome the identified barriers
The survey results are online at this PS News link.
25 August, 2011
Welfare reforms
doing good
A joint State-Federal welfare reform trial in Cape York is to be extended following a positive report from the Family Responsibilities Commission (FRC).
The Commission is an initiative of the Queensland and Federal Governments in association with the four Cape York communities of Aurukun, Coen, Hope Vale and Mossman Gorge.
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Curtis Pitt said that since it began in January 2008, the trial had achieved encouraging results in promoting positive changes in the Far North Queensland communities.
“Extending the trial provides an opportunity to build upon the success of initiatives already underway aimed at restoring local Indigenous authority, encouraging positive behaviours and improving economic and living conditions,” Mr Pitt said.
“The decision to extend the trial followed consultation with key partners in the reform program, the Australian Government and the Cape York Institute for Policy and Leadership, coupled with the Family Responsibilities Commission, Elders, Local Councils and community representatives.”
He said one of the most positive changes from the trial was the contribution to closing the education gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students.
“The FRC works with community members to address school attendance, tenancy, Magistrate Court convictions and child safety issues,” he said.
Mr Pitt said across the four trial communities school attendance notifications dropped from 339 last quarter to 332 this quarter.
“While not a major drop, this is still a pleasing result because it demonstrates that fewer students had unexplained absences from school,” he said.
“Magistrates Court notifications decreased in all communities – and notably, Hope Vale has continued to see a decline in notifications for all quarters since quarter six.”
25 August, 2011
Literary list for
Premier’s awards
The Premier’s Literary Awards shortlist for 2011 has been announced consisting of 63 works across in 14 categories.
Premier, Anna Bligh said the shortlist included passionate, inspiring, educational and humorous works by some of Australia’s great writers, reflecting the incredible literary talent thriving in Queensland and throughout Australia.
“I am very pleased this important awards program, in its 13th year, is still attracting so many diverse and high quality entries from such exceptional established and emerging authors,” Ms Bligh said.
“It is thrilling to see a number of Queensland writers acknowledged in this year’s shortlist, including Patrick Holland for The Source of the Sound.”
She said that in 2005, Patrick won the Emerging Queensland Author – Manuscript Award for The Long Road of the Junkmailer and since being unearthed by the awards had gone on to establish a profile as an extremely talented Queensland author.
A controversial entry in the non-fiction category is the convicted supporter of terrorism, David Hicks for his book Guantanamo: My Journey.
Ms Bligh said literature touched many people and played an important role in everyday lives.
“So I am delighted my Government can continue to be a part of growing and developing this industry.”
She said the Queensland Premier’s Literary Awards was a national program that acknowledged, supported and enriched the arts throughout Australia, and offered Australian writers the opportunity to gain national recognition while developing their craft.
The winners of the 2011 awards will be announced at a ceremony on 6 September and more information was available from this PS News link.
25 August, 2011
And in Other News...
Disaster centre opened
A Disaster Management Public Education and Training Centre for the Cassowary Coast has been officially opened.
The centre was built as a partnership between all three levels of government, with the State and Federal Governments providing around $520,000 through the Natural Disaster Resilience Program and the Local Council providing around $120,000.
The state-of-the-art facility will ensure Local Authorities can deliver training and information to the community so that they can be better prepared for a disaster.
Disaster deadlines extended
The deadline for flood and cyclone assistance packages for primary producers, businesses and not-for-profit organisations has been extended until 31 January 2012.
Originally the package was due to finish on the 30 September and the Cyclone Yasi package on the 31 October but the extensions have been granted because of the inability to access some properties, the shortage of tradespeople and continued heavy rain.
To date more than $159 million had been approved for 12,417 recipients across Queensland in the form of grants and loans to assist in recovery.
Comment called on place names
The public has been asked to comment on formal names for two unnamed mountains and five unnamed gullies near the Kilkivan township.
The Department of Environment and Resource Management proposes to name the mountains Mount Boo Boo (Bu’boo – alternative name) and Mount Kilkivan and the gullies Bakers Gully, German Gully, Italian Gully, Star Gully and Skibbereen Gully, in accordance with the Place Names Act 1994.
The proposed names have significant links to the historical Kilkivan gold fields and gold mines in the district.
Submissions and comments on the proposed names close with the Department on 21 October.
Reminder on fish limits
Anglers are being reminded of the rules for catching Grunter Bream, also known as Javelin Fish.
The minimum size limit for Small Spotted Grunter (Silver Javelin) is 30cm and the minimum size limit for Spotted Grunter (Barred Javelin) is 40cm. Both Small Spotted and Spotted Grunter each have a bag limit of 10.
Anglers are urged to have a copy of Fisheries Queensland’s latest rules and regulations booklet which outlines size, bag limits and other rules.
Agricultural College opens
The Australian Agricultural College Corporation (AACC) facility at Mackay has been officially opened.
Under an agreement with Canegrowers Mackay and AACC, the Mackay facility will provide innovative and flexible training programs in partnership with the sugar industry.
The Mackay model is expected to be replicated at other planned AACC facilities elsewhere in the State.
Sponsorship program closing
Applications for the 2012 Queensland Week sponsorship program close on 2 September.
Communities can obtain grants to host events to celebrate Queensland Week next year, to be held from 2 to 11 June.
Funding on offer for events in 2012 has doubled to $100,000.
Fire appliance for Townsville
A specialist ladder appliance has been commissioned at the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service’s South Townsville station.
The new $1.7 million Bronto Telescopic Ladder Platform has a maximum working height of 44 metres vertical and a maximum side outreach of 27 metres horizontal. It also has its own pump which can deliver 4,000 litres of water per minute.
Its operational duties will include rescues from heights as well as being used as a water tower to direct water or foam on to buildings.
18 August, 2011
Carseldine home
to 1,000 PS staff
The former Carseldine Campus of the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) is to be transformed into a new Government office precinct.
Under the plan announced by Premier, Anna Bligh, up to 1,000 Public Servants will also be relocated from inner city Brisbane from the end of 2012 as part of the Government’s decentralisation commitment.
Ms Bligh said that by decentralising some services, the Government was providing employees with the opportunity to work closer to home as well as stimulating urban growth.
“The new services facility means that locals will be able to do things like renew their licence locally, pay SPER fines, and lodge vehicle transfer paperwork locally,” Ms Bligh said.
“I have always been committed to reducing congestion in the central business district and one way that we are doing this is by re-locating some Government functions.”
She said with construction due for completion and buildings occupied by the end of 2012, the new Government office precinct at Carseldine would be within walking distance of train and bus services.
“This is not only a great move for the many Public Servants that commute to the City from the north side each day, but also a great economic boost for Carseldine and its surrounds,” she said.
She said the Department of Transport and Main Roads would be the major tenant of the precinct but a number of other State Government Agencies would be relocating work units as well.
Ms Bligh said the work units concerned were currently being identified and processes developed to encourage PS staff to express their interest in the move.
18 August, 2011
Records updated
in records brief
Queensland State Archives has issued a Public Records Brief updating the General Retention and Disposal Schedule for Administrative Records (GRDS).
The GRDS lists the minimum retention periods for records created or received relating to common administrative functions and activities across the Queensland public sector.
According to the Archives, the GRDS applies to all Queensland public authorities and covers administrative functions such as asset management, financial management, human resources and strategic management.
The Schedule was first developed in 1997 and recently underwent a minor review. It has been reissued this month as version 6.
State Archives has advised Agencies that the new version supersedes all others which should be removed from circulation to avoid confusion.
“However, a master copy of the GRDS should be retained in the agency’s recordkeeping system to demonstrate that records in the past have been appropriately disposed of,” it says.
The Brief says that the GRDS applies to all record formats, including electronic records such as emails, spreadsheets and digital photographs and it includes a listing of ephemeral documents of short term informational value that are not required to be captured in a recordkeeping system.
Archives has also published a summary of the main changes from version 5 to version 6 to assist agencies re-sentence records under the new arrangements.
The changes between the versions include a series of modifications to class descriptions and headings and increases the retention period for some financial delegations from five to seven years and adds a record class for lobbyists.
The revised GRDS also expands the class description for recruitment to include records of reviews and appeals.
The new version of the GRDS can be accessed at this PS News link.
18 August, 2011
Education merger is
meeting of the minds
The Central Queensland University (CQUniversity) and Institute of TAFE are to merge, creating the State’s first dual-sector university.
The new entity will service nearly 40,000 students making it one Queensland’s largest educational institutions.
Premier, Anna Bligh said the merger would combine the strengths of TAFE – practical skills training and job readiness - with the strengths of higher education - theoretical knowledge and links to research.
“This would position local students to make the most of the region’s tremendous opportunities as Central Queensland is taking off with new mines, new port facilities and new industries,” Ms Bligh said.
“It’s estimated the CSG and LNG industries will create 41,000 jobs over the next 20 years and Central Queensland is in the box seat to benefit from the unprecedented jobs growth as these new industries get off the ground.”
She said the proposed merger would create a tertiary institution that delivered both vocational and higher education – a ‘one-stop-shop’ for skilled workers.
“There would be much greater flexibility for students. For example, someone completing an electrical apprenticeship could change to a degree in electrical engineering without changing institutions,” Ms Bligh said.
Combined, the new dual-sector institution would service an area three to four times the size of Victoria.
While the Government had approved the merger, the final green light relied on the Australian Government providing support under the Structural Adjustment Fund, further due diligence and an agreed position on governance and operational issues.
18 August, 2011
Circular wraps up
Christmas closedown
The Public Sector Industrial and Employee Relations Division (PSIER) of the Department of Justice and Attorney-General has issued a Circular on this year’s Christmas/New Year Compulsory Closure.
The Circular, signed by Acting Executive Director at PSIER, Cathy Bray details the benefits resulting from closure during a traditionally low productivity period as well as the opportunity for staff to take a substantial break for family or other reasons.
The Circular C2/11 2011/2012 Christmas/New Year Compulsory Closure says that the closure arrangements will apply only where Departmental requirements permit the absence of employees.
It says that limited staffing arrangements may need to be implemented in some areas to meet essential Government and public needs.
Leave for employees able to take it will be as follows:
Monday 26 December and Tuesday 27 December will be public holidays for Christmas Day and Boxing Day; Wednesday 28 December will be taken as leave on full pay without debit (the concessional day); Thursday 29 December and Friday 30 December will be taken as recreation leave, TOIL or accrued hours; and Monday 2 January will be the public holiday for New Year’s Day.
Employees engaged in a service requiring continuous shift operations and who receive additional leave for such work will not be entitled to take part in the closure arrangements.
Those whose shifts do not require them to work during the Christmas or New Year period but who are required to do so are to be allowed one working day on full pay without debit to any leave account.
Senior Executives and Senior Officers participating in the compulsory closure will be entitled to the concessional day of Wednesday 28 December.
In addition, they will be entitled to Thursday 29 December and Friday 30 December off without debit to their paid accrued leave entitlements, unless determined otherwise by a Chief Executive for individual officers in exceptional circumstances.
The Circular can be accessed at this PS News link.
18 August, 2011
Stats line up for
Queensland Police
The community’s current perceptions of the Queensland Police Service (QPS) have been measured in a survey undertaken by the Crime and Misconduct Commission (CMC).
The report shows that Queenslanders continue to believe that police officers were honest and generally behaved well but confidence in the QPS complaints handling process had declined.
The survey, the eighth in the Public Perceptions series, helps the CMC to monitor changes in the nature and quality of the public’s contact with police, public opinion about the behaviour and integrity of the Queensland Police Service and the public’s willingness to use complaint services.
The report found that 90 per cent of respondents agreed that police generally or mostly behaved well.
It found however that since 2008 there had been a drop (from 65 per cent to 55 per cent) in the proportion of respondents who believed police treated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples differently from white Australians.
A small proportion of respondents (13 per cent) said that over time, police behaviour had changed for the worst. This figure, though small, has almost doubled since 1999.
The public generally agreed (89 per cent) that there would always be some level of corruption in the Police Service and that perception had not changed substantially over recent surveys.
The main reasons respondents reported satisfactory experiences with police (either initiated by themselves or by the police) were that the officers had a friendly, courteous or professional manner (50 per cent) and took the appropriate action (32 per cent).
The main reasons respondents reported unsatisfactory experiences were that the officers had an unfriendly, rude or arrogant manner (36 per cent) or did nothing or not enough (22 per cent).
The report showed that since 2005 there had been an increase in the proportion of the public who believed “the police don’t have enough powers to do their job properly” (from 56 per cent to 61 per cent), however, about an equal proportion agreed (48 per cent) and disagreed (45 per cent) that “sometimes police need to break the rules to get the job done”.
One in six people who were dissatisfied with a police encounter made or tried to make a complaint while confidence in the QPS to properly investigate complaints declined (from 62 per cent to 57 per cent).
The survey identified two main areas for improvement – a need to increase public knowledge of the mechanisms the QPS had in place for dealing with misconduct and a greater emphasis on a courteous and professional manner in dealing with the public, particularly when the police initiated the contact.
In December last year the CMC released its report Setting the Standard which examined the police disciplinary system.
The independent review panel established by the Government as a result of that report has been provided with a draft of the survey results to inform its deliberations.
18 August, 2011
Conditions Directive
is Seniors’ moment
The Minister for Education and Industrial Relations has issued a new Directive setting out the employment conditions of Senior Officers.
Senior Officers are described in the Directive as staff performing a role with an assessed work value above 719 points “but below that required for inclusion in the Senior Executive Service”.
Directive 8/11 Senior Officers – Employment Conditions replaces Directive 22/10 of the same name and took effect on 1 August 2011.
According to the Directive, Senior Officers are usually appointed on tenure but can be on contract if the Chief Executive decides.
It says Senior Officers can be transferred within or between Agencies at the discretion of Chief Executives but the provisions of the Public Service Act are to apply in the event the Senior Officer does not wish to be.
It says the working hours of a Senior Officer are at the discretion of the Chief Executive taking into account “the good health and wellbeing of the Senior Officer and appropriate work-life balance.”
“Senior Officers are not entitled to be paid for work performed outside ordinary hours,” the Directive says
“However a meal allowance may be paid.”
It says Senior Officers may be required to work on public holidays for no extra pay.
According to the Directive, Senior Officers are entitled to in-house salary packaging of their personal superannuation contributions, subscriptions to professional associations and other benefits approved by the Chief Executive.
These arrangements must be in writing and are not to exceed the percentage of salary that would apply if the Agency’s fee-for-service salary packaging scheme was used.
“Senior Officers are able to access a wider menu of items for salary packaging purposes by using the services of the Agency’s salary packaging bureau service provider,” the Directive says.
It also sets out minimum periods for higher duties allowance, reimbursement arrangements for telephone charges, leave entitlements, transfer expenses and other conditions.
The Directive can be accessed at this PS News link.
18 August, 2011
Business Commissioner
doing the business
Interest in the position of Business Commissioner has been strong according to Minister for Finance, Rachel Nolan who said it had attracted 30 applications.
The soon-to-be-appointed Business Commissioner will be tasked with cutting Government red tape and driving reform to help Queensland businesses make the most of the State’s next wave of prosperity.
Ms Nolan said a shortlist of applicants would now be created.
“Queensland is climbing off the canvas following the natural disasters, and we need the business sector to drive growth across the State,” Ms Nolan said.
“We know there’s a big wave of investment coming and we want local businesses to be able to make the most of it.”
She said freeing business from unnecessary red tape would allow them to ride the wave of investment that was “washing through the economy.”
Ms Nolan said the Business Commissioner would give the business sector a direct voice in Government and identify areas of reform to benefit it and the State’s economy as a whole.
She said the Commissioner would work with the Queensland Small Business Advisory Council and report to the Minister for Finance and the Minister for Manufacturing and Small Business. She said he or she would be backed up by specialist staff.
The Commissioner’s principal tasks will be to lead a program of cutting red tape across Government and work with business through peak groups like the Australian Industry Group, Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland, the Queensland Tourism Industry Council and the Queensland Government Small Business Advisory Council.
Ms Nolan said the Business Commissioner would also advise Government Agencies on best practice in regulation and recommend timelines for Government decision-making processes.
She said the establishment of the position was part of the Government’s plan to reduce the compliance cost burden to business by $150 million per year by 2013.
Funding for the Business Commissioner would be provided through the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Industry and the Queensland Treasury.
18 August, 2011
Arts in the frame
to aid recovery
The arts are to feature in a creative recovery project to be run in some of Queensland’s most disaster-affected communities.
Minister for the Arts, Rachel Nolan said funding for the Creative Recovery Arts Corp would engage appropriately-trained arts workers to develop local projects with local communities.
Ms Nolan said the disasters had brought out the best and, in some cases the worst, in people and local community arts projects could capture the best community spirit and help people to recover from traumatic events.
“The program is based on a growing body of evidence that shows the benefits of the arts to personal and community wellbeing, including increased self confidence and resilience, reduced feelings of isolation and the promotion of a shared optimism,” Ms Nolan said.
“The Arts Corp project will achieve success by enabling local organisations to deliver art and cultural projects that are created by the community for the community with their needs as a priority.”
She said the artists would consult and work with the Queensland Reconstruction Authority, the Department of Communities, Local Councils, the Local Government Association of Queensland and economic development and local tourism bodies.
She said the Arts Corp project would build on the learning and success of Illuminated by Fire, the Australia Council project developed after the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires in Victoria which involved local artists working with affected communities.
Ms Nolan said the project would also deliver a Toolkit to guide arts programs in future recovery situations.
18 August, 2011
Electronic land deals
have property wired
A majority Government-owned company developing a national electronic system for property sales has let a contract for the design of a new e-conveyancing platform.
National E-Conveyancing Development Limited (NECDL) has appointed a company to do the work as a step forward in simplifying property settlement and cutting red tape in the industry.
NECDL is majority-owned and funded by the Queensland, Victorian, NSW and Western Australian Governments and is the company responsible for developing a national electronic system for property exchange.
It has secured funding from the four major banks, who will become minority shareholders.
Acting Treasurer, Rachel Nolan said national e-conveyancing was a key project in the Council of Australian Governments’ agenda to create a seamless national economy.
“It will reduce the need for conveyancers, solicitors and bank staff to meet in one place to complete a property settlement,” Ms Nolan said.
“It will also help streamline the property settlement process, and cut the regulatory and administrative burden for Government, business and communities.”
She said home buyers would also stand to benefit from reduced time and money spent on property conveyancing and the industry would enjoy process efficiencies.
She said the new system would also deliver increased and enhanced client identity verification and checking processes – welcome improvements in light of a spike in real estate scams.
“It will be a big win for anyone who has ever experienced the complexities associated with property transactions,” Ms Nolan said.
She said the national e-conveyancing system was expected to begin in 2012.
18 August, 2011
Towns close doors on
mining start-ups
A new policy banning mining exploration in and around urban areas of Queensland has been issued.
Announced by the Premier, Anna Bligh, the policy also takes in regional centres such as Ipswich, Toowoomba, Beaudesert, Rockhampton, Mackay and St George.
It declares an exploration Restricted Area over land bound by the South East Queensland Regional Plan as well as other regional centres and towns with a population of 1,000 or more and covers existing exploration permits as well as future permits in those areas.
Ms Bligh said there would be no more exploration activity on urban land or within a two-kilometre buffer of urban land.
“These restrictions are complementary to the existing Strategic Cropping Legislation and will provide another layer of assurance for communities,” Ms Bligh said.
“We have a tough regulatory framework and mines were always unlikely to be approved close to these urban areas.
“But what these changes do is provide certainty upfront and end the anxiety so that residents don’t have to wait for the assessment process to run its course.”
Ms Bligh said the Government would take feedback on the draft legislation to enshrine the changes which was expected to be in place later this year.
“Both the mining industry and Local Governments have previously indicated their support to resolve the uncertainty for residents on this issue,” she said.
“These consistent restrictions are a sensible approach but it is possible that some communities may wish to remove the restrictions on mining in some part of their urban area.”
She said under the framework, the Minister for Mining could consider representations from local Mayors where a Council resolution had been passed in favour of opting out of the framework for part of their urban area.
18 August, 2011
Steady support for
disability study
Queensland has given in-principle support for the Productivity Commission’s final report into reforming the way disability services are delivered in Australia.
The report proposes a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and a complementary National Injury Insurance Scheme (NIIS).
When implemented, these schemes will dramatically change the way disability services are provided throughout Australia.
Minister for Disability Service, Curtis Pitt said it was of national importance that the long-term needs of people with a disability, their families and carers, were met with the right support at the right time.
“That is why we agree, in-principle, with the intent of the Productivity Commission’s proposals for a NDIS and NIIS,” Mr Pitt said.
“This is about moving from a welfare model to an insurance model, where people with a disability and their families would be in the driver’s seat.”
He said greater investigation was needed into the impacts of both schemes on Queensland people with a disability, their families and carers, before the Government could offer its full support.
He said the Government also needed to know what changes would be needed to its current funding models.
“I look forward to working closely with the Australian Government and other States and Territories on the foundations for these schemes,” Mr Pitt said.
He said he would welcome any supports under the NDIS that assisted people with a disability to maintain their independence, particularly including any support for gaining and retaining employment.
“Following the release of the Productivity Commission’s draft report earlier this year, I established a working group made up of people who experience disability services in Queensland from many perspectives,” the Minister said.
He said the group would continue to work on its final report.
18 August, 2011
SkillsTech teacher
gets on his bike
Bicycle Mechanics Teacher at SkillsTech Australia, Brett Richardson has recently returned from Tonga where he assembled 300 bicycles donated to the developing nation.
Mr Richardson said the island country was having issues with too many cars on its roads in such a small area with the resulting pollution creating a problem.
“Also, the health of the Tongan people is affected by so many driving instead of healthy alternatives like walking or cycling,” Mr Richardson said.
“I was approached by Oceania Cycling Confederation, an affiliate of the International Cycling Union, that is charged with the development of the sport in the Oceania/South Pacific regions, to help to get bicycles into Tonga and get people cycling.”
He said the Tongan Government and Tongan Cycling Federation were trying to address the challenges and also encourage cycling clubs to compete in the Pacific Games and, ultimately, the Commonwealth Games.
“We were able to assemble bikes, I trained a local bicycle mechanic to improve his repair work, and we visited two schools in which we donated bikes and taught basic road safety,” Mr Richardson said.
“To show their appreciation, the children insisted on singing for us, which was a personal highlight for me.”
He said he hoped to keep working in the area.
“I have made contact with Rotary Australia and intend working with Rotary on future projects,” Mr Richardson said.
Since returning he has received encouraging feedback from the Public Health Division of the Tongan Government and had also heard that one of the school principals he visited now leads a Saturday ride with the school’s children.
18 August, 2011
Fostering campaign
to foster carers
A campaign to find more foster carers has been launched by Minister for Child Safety, Phil Reeves.
Titled Foster a Child. Foster a Future, the campaign encourages community and sporting groups to promote the benefits of foster care to their members.
“Prospective carers can find out everything they need to know at a new web site www.fosterafuture.qld.gov.au which has a step-by-step guide on how they can make a difference to the lives of Queensland children and young people,” Mr Reeves said.
“The website includes real life carer stories and a self-assessment tool, so potential carers can work out how fostering may fit in with their lives.”
He said a CD tool kit had been developed with a range of posters, postcards and a short video, giving organisations the tools to promote foster and kinship care.
“In addition, the campaign will be promoted with community service announcements on radio, in key national magazines and at a series of major sporting events,” he said.
“Currently in Queensland, there are more than 8,000 children who cannot live safely at home, and in Brisbane, more than 1,000 children and young people are living away from home.”
Mr Reeves said carers were an invaluable part of today’s society where more and more children were entering the child protection system.
“That’s where potential carers enter the picture. They step up to the plate and ensure children are safe and protected, while also providing opportunities for the future,” the Minister said.
“Sometimes it’s for a few hours, sometimes just a few months, and sometimes it’s for the rest of their childhood,” he said.
More information about the campaign, or becoming a foster parent, can be obtained from this PS News link.
18 August, 2011
Farmers dig in
to stop mines
Consultation on the Strategic Cropping Land Policy – aimed at protecting the best cropping land from mining and other development – has opened.
Minister for Natural Resources, Rachel Nolan said while there was a clear need to advance important mining projects, the agricultural sector should be equally valued.
“To help us get the balance right, we are consulting with stakeholders,” Ms Nolan said.
“The draft policy will ensure that strategic cropping land is protected and managed through the planning and development assessment framework under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009.”
She said as resource developments were not currently assessed under the Sustainable Planning Act, the new strategic cropping land legislation and amendments to existing resources legislation, would ensure they were.
“The new policy will commence when the strategic cropping land legislation comes into effect,” she said.
“It will operate in tandem with the existing State Planning Policy 1/92: Development and the Conservation of Agricultural Land, which applies to a broader range of agricultural land,” she said.
“I encourage all interested parties to once again take part in this important consultation process.”
The Minister said a Regulatory Assessment Statement had been issued for public consultation on 31 May and after a 62-day consultation period, more than double the required period, had now closed.
“A range of stakeholders made submissions and these will all be considered as we work towards entrenching this policy in legislation,” Ms Nolan said.
18 August, 2011
Airport upgrades
land in far west
Safety upgrades to seven airports in Far West Queensland have been announced.
Funding is to be provided by the Government and matched by Local Councils, providing a pool of $1.35 million to boost air safety throughout the Far West by the end of the financial year.
Minister for Transport, Annastacia Palaszczuk said the improvements would be welcomed by the Far Western Queensland communities that relied on air travel to overcome great distances.
Ms Palaszczuk said the funding would be provided under the Government’s Regional Airports Development Scheme (RADS), which supported Local Councils to upgrade airports in regional and remote areas.
MP for Mount Isa, Betty Kiernan, said the RADS grants where very important to local communities.
“Without additional funding from the Government, Councils would struggle to complete these upgrades,” Ms Kiernan said.
“This is especially important in the Far West, where towns are spread far apart and where, in emergency situations, quick transport becomes a life saving necessity.”
Ms Palaszczuk said RADS would also provide funding for another 20 airports across Queensland over the next year.
She said current RADS projects for the Far West included Cloncurry Airport (runway reseal and line-mark the new surface) - $46,000; Boulia Airport (construction of an animal-proof perimeter fence around the runway area) - $154,000; Camooweal Airport (resurface the existing bitumen sealed runway) - $95,000; Julia Creek Airport (runway reseal) - $96,000; Kajabbi Airport (runway reseal) - $26,000; Duchess Airport (new gravel surface to the runway) - $7,000; Bedourie Airport (bitumen seal the runway and apron) - $250,000.
18 August, 2011
Galleries focus
on arts funding
Three art galleries are to create, show and tour unique exhibitions focusing on Queensland artists and culture.
The galleries - Caloundra Regional Gallery, Tambo’s Grasslands Art Gallery and Redcliffe Art Gallery - successfully applied for funding under the Regional Gallery Partnership Program.
Minister for the Arts, Rachel Nolan said the program was designed to create career opportunities for artists and arts workers, as well as expand the programming of regional galleries.
Ms Nolan said under the new joint project Caloundra Regional Gallery would revisit the first encounters of Captain Cook with traditional owners as he navigated along the east coast of Australia in 1770, focusing on telling a fresh and balanced account through visual art, writing and song.
Its exhibition, East Coast Encounter, would receive $44,000 in Government support, open in 2012 and tour Tweed River, Caloundra, Hervey Bay, Townsville and Cairns from 2013 to 2015
“Grasslands Art Gallery will receive $40,000 to showcase drawings, models, diaries, multi-media and other mediums of possible public art projects created during a series of two- week residencies by seven key public artists during 2012 at Tambo,” Ms Nolan said.
MP for Redcliffe, Lillian van Litsenburg welcomed the funding for the Redcliffe Art Gallery.
“This is great news for our local gallery which will receive $30,000 to develop a touring exhibition, catalogue and public program Transience: A Confluence of Australian and Chinese Culture,” Ms van Litsenburg said.
“This is an outstanding project which will feature artists Joe Furlonger, Jun Chen and Pamela See, who have travelled, worked and exhibited in China.”
More information is available from this PS News link.
18 August, 2011
Projects conference
a major project
A one-day conference with the theme, Queensland – Open for Business, is to be held to offer insights into major projects across the State in the private and public sectors.
Minister for State Development and Trade, Andrew Fraser said that while the global economy faced real challenges, business investment was still being attracted to Queensland.
“From the three LNG projects in Gladstone alone more than $40 billion has been committed in investment to get the massive projects up and running,” Mr Fraser said.
“People are still looking to Queensland to invest their money and there is scope for local businesses to capitalise on contract work and other upstream opportunities.”
He said registrations for the 2011 Major Projects Conference in Brisbane in October were open and the event was expected to attract 1,000 delegates.
He said the conference would give delegates information on where the opportunities lay in their particular industry and region.
“There will be a showcase of projects currently under construction and highlights of those in the pipeline,” Mr Fraser said.
“The $6.8 billion Operation Queenslander program which is coordinating the State-wide reconstruction effort will also be on the agenda.
He said industry leaders from energy, mining, mineral processing, rail, roads, public transport, tourism and health infrastructure would benefit from the event, as would the professionals who serviced those industries.
Mr Fraser said the conference would launch the Major Projects Map 2011 which features a comprehensive list of private and public projects with a value of $350 million or more which are under study, committed or under construction.
18 August, 2011
And in Other News...
Fisheries scholarship
A Queensland Government scholarship with James Cook University aims to boost productivity in Queensland’s fisheries.
This year’s recipients are Shaye Carman and Vinay Udyawer who each receive $5,000 to support their research on North Queensland fish habitats.
The Marine Fish Habitat Scholarship Program is funded by the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation.
Coast police boosted
Gold Coast police numbers are to be boosted by 35 out of the 152 new police positions provided for in this year’s Budget.
Of the 35, 18 will be allocated to the already announced Taskforce Resolve, the serious and violent crime squad established in June with a temporary allocation of detectives.
This squad will also be strengthened by an additional two senior constable-level intelligence officers.
Bisosecurity comment extended
Consultation on the Biosecurity Bill has been extended by two weeks to 2 September.
The Bill delivers a major reform to the current regulatory framework and a significant reduction in red tape, providing uniformity and clarity with one approach to biosecurity issues.
The proposed legislation is a key initiative under the Queensland Biosecurity Strategy 2009–14 and is expected to be introduced into Parliament later this year.
Bridge building begins
Construction is scheduled to begin on a new higher-level bridge over the Dawson River at Baralaba.
The move follows a joint funding agreement between the Department of Transport and Main Roads and Cockatoo Coal Limited.
Work is expected to be complete by the end of the year.
Fraud symposium
An international symposium to focus on fraud protection for older people is to be hosted by the Queensland Police Service’s Fraud and Corporate Crime Group.
The two-day symposium will target businesses and organisations with a vested interest in fraud issues within the elderly community. It will explore not only these issues, but many others that affect businesses and communities on a daily basis.
The symposium will be held in Brisbane on 30 and 31 August at the Stamford Plaza and more information is available from this PS News link or call (07) 3364 4125.
11 August, 2011
Disaster lesson
is cooperation
One of the most important lessons for the Premier from the Flood Inquiry is the importance of all levels of Government and the community to work together preparing for and responding to disasters.
Ms Bligh made this admission when commenting on the Inquiry’s recommendations which she said were just as pertinent for the areas hit by Cyclone Yasi as they were for flood-affected parts of Queensland.
She said among the inquiry’s findings to be applied by State and Local Disaster Management Groups to cyclone-affected areas included improving local disaster management planning, including evacuation centre planning; more training for local disaster coordinators and SES volunteers; improved community education programs about preparing for natural disasters and more trained swift-water rescue technicians.
She said the Inquiry also recommended improved local warning systems including SMS alerts and greater use of social media; improved communication to tourists and those who spoke languages other than English; improved access to information about road conditions and the dangers of driving during natural disasters; and increased resourcing of Emergency Management Queensland and Queensland Fire and Rescue.
Ms Bligh said the Inquiry also called for increased capacity for call centre staff in Smart Service Queensland and the Queensland Police to respond to the significant increase in calls during a disaster.
11 August, 2011
Weapons probe in
CMC’s sights
Investigation of offences under the Weapons Act 1990 is to be stepped up following a partnership established by the Crime and Misconduct Commission and the Queensland Police Service (QPS).
The move follows heightened public concern about an apparent recent spike in violent crime and use of firearms in South East Queensland.
In a joint announcement, the Assistant Commissioner, Crime at the CMC, John Callanan and Detective Superintendent John Sheppard, who leads State Crime Operations Command’s Organised Crime Group at QPS cautioned against alarmist reactions
“Over the past decade, serious weapons-related offences, including murder and armed robbery, have declined across Queensland,” Detective Superintendent Sheppard said.
“Even with the recent spike in armed robberies on the Gold Coast, prompting the set-up of a specialist police unit focusing on violent offences [Taskforce Resolve], we have no reason to believe crime rates are on the rise.”
Mr Callanan said it was in the public interest for the CMC to elevate its readiness to act on suspected organised criminal activity involving unlawful possession, use, supply, trafficking in, manufacture and modification of weapons.
He said CMC investigations of a variety of organised crime groups suggested the increasing presence of concealed firearms, but he stressed that this did not necessarily translate into an immediate threat to the public.
Mr Callanan said further details about the CMC’s overall performance will be published next month in the organisation’s 2010-11 annual report.
11 August, 2011
Wharves plan
washed away
A Brisbane City Council proposal to develop the Howard Smith Wharves precinct has been rejected by the Minister for Local Government, Paul Lucas.
Mr Lucas said the January floods had highlighted the problems and risks with the plan for the area which included commercial and retail development on a flood-prone site.
Mr Lucas said that before the flood, the Council had worked with the Government to deal with flooding issues.
“But the Howard Smith Wharves site wasn’t partially inundated, it was essentially totally inundated,” Mr Lucas said.
“It makes no sense whatsoever to allow the amendments put forward by Brisbane City Council to proceed.”
He said he approved local area plans in Brisbane in the past, such as South Brisbane and Bulimba, which were partially but not totally subjected to flooding in January.
“In these plans, Council is required to acknowledge the January flood impacts, and to ensure any future recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry are considered and addressed when this information becomes available,” Mr Lucas said.
“For Howard Smith Wharves, the site was essentially 100 per cent flood affected in January, so it is not appropriate to approve this plan in the same manner and I will not be approving it.”
MP for Brisbane Central, Grace Grace welcomed the decision saying there were important historical buildings on the Howard Smith Wharves site.
“Whatever we do with Howard Smith Wharves, we need to get it right,” Ms Grace said.
“I’m sure that with thought and further community consultation, Brisbane City Council can come up with the appropriate mixture of tourist and community-friendly uses that will make it a Mecca, not a flood hazard,” she said.
11 August, 2011
Throwaway laws for
waste watchers
New waste laws have been introduced into Parliament to reduce landfill and create jobs.
Minister for the Environment, Vicky Darling said the Waste Reduction and Recycling Bill formed a key part of the Government’s 10-year plan to halve the amount of waste going into landfill by 2020 and would cut waste volumes and modernise waste management systems, which could mean more jobs in areas such as recycling.
Ms Darling said it was important to act now to introduce reforms in handling the mountains of rubbish produced throughout the State every day.
“Queensland generates about 32 million tonnes of waste every year,” Ms Darling said.
“We have one of the worst recycling rates in the nation and we have also become Australia’s dumping ground.
“Other States – particularly NSW – cross the border to dispose of their rubbish at our tips because it’s cheaper,” she said.
“Additionally – and worryingly – many of our Councils are reporting that they are running out of space for landfill.”
She said the new laws would tackle this issue by firstly helping Queenslanders reduce the amount of waste generated, then by improving the recovery of it that was too readily dumped in landfill.
She said the new laws would introduce a levy on commercial and industrial type waste going to landfill which would direct millions of dollars to programs to help business reduce the amount of waste they generate.
Ms Darling said the laws would come into effect on 1 December.
“This is not a levy that will affect households – it’s an Industry Waste Levy and it’s avoidable if companies can avoid landfill disposal,” she said.
“The Government will invest $159 million over the next four years to introduce programs to help companies avoid producing waste, sort their waste and recycle it.”
Ms Darling said that under the reforms, Councils would receive an $11 million boost for waste management this year – funding that could be used to upgrade waste facilities.
11 August, 2011
Social science centre
to boost research
The Queensland Centre for Social Science Innovation (QCSSI) which is expected to become a world-class research hub, has been launched.
Premier, Anna Bligh said $5 million would be provided for the new Centre over the next five years, matched by funding from the University of Queensland, the Queensland University of Technology, Griffith University, James Cook University and the Central Queensland University.
She said the QCSSI would be based at the University of Queensland with nodes at participating universities.
Ms Bligh said the aim was to make Queensland a world leader in social science research, attracting national and international experts to undertake leading edge, applied social science.
“This Australian-first collaboration is about bringing together researchers and policy-makers so we are even better at rebuilding communities after disasters, addressing Indigenous disadvantage, and educating and protecting our children,” Ms Bligh said.
“Around 75 per cent of the Queensland Government Budget is directed to social and human services, like education and health.
“Targeted, relevant research will ensure that the best use was made of this substantial financial investment.”
She said potential research projects included building individual and community resilience and improving effective governance in response to disasters, and examining what works for improving Indigenous health and wellbeing, including a focus on infant and maternal health.
The Premier said Queensland Government Agencies had already submitted around 30 proposals for initial research to be considered for inclusion in the Centre’s first Research Program for 2012.
She said QCSSI researchers would have access to anonymous data from the Office for Economic and Statistical Research under strict protocols, enabling new research opportunities through access to never-before-seen data sets.
11 August, 2011
School pilot to
take off early
High schools have been invited to take part in a pilot Year 7 scheme ahead of the State-wide introduction in 2015.
Up to 20 schools are to trial the move to ensure a smooth transition.
Premier, Anna Bligh said many State schools had indicated they wished to make the move earlier than 2015 and opening an expression of interest process would allow them to formally register their interest.
“The successful applicants will join the new Murrumba Downs High School, opening in 2012, which has been announced as the first State school to pilot Year 7,” Ms Bligh said.
Minister for Education, Cameron Dick said State high schools, in consultation with their feeder primary schools and Parents and Citizens Associations, could register their interest with their Regional Director by 22 August.
“From there, schools will be assessed on their suitability at a regional level,” Mr Dick said.
He said schools which passed that stage would then be required to make a submission based on a set of selection criteria, including their individual school model, transition plan, support for students, and plans to share their experiences throughout the pilot.
“Successful pilot schools will be announced before the end of the 2011 school year and it is expected that most pilot schools will choose to take Year 7 from 2013.”
He said the Government had allocated $328.2 million as capital funding for State schools over four years to implement the Flying Start initiatives, and there could be funding available to pilot schools requiring additional facilities or resources.
11 August, 2011
Broadband network
becoming broader
The announcement of four second release sites in Queensland for the National Broadband Network (NBN) has been welcomed by the Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Simon Finn.
Mr Finn said construction on new sites in Toowoomba, Goodna/Springfield Lakes and Aspley would begin later this year, along with extensions to existing works in Townsville.
He said the work would help connect more than 30,000 Queenslanders to the NBN by the end of 2012.
Mr Finn said the new sites were great news for the communities concerned, which would be among the first in the country to benefit from the high-speed NBN.
“The NBN is crucial to the future of the Queensland economy,” Mr Finn said.
“It will transform the delivery of key services like health and education, and it will fundamentally change our ways of doing business.
He said a recent consultant’s report had found that the value of the internet to the economy already rivalled the value of Australia’s iron-ore exports.
“It also forecasts the internet’s contribution to Australia’s gross domestic product would grow by around seven per cent a year to reach $70 billion by 2016,” Mr Finn said.
He said teams were currently working in Townsville to connect the optic fibre directly to around 3,000 homes and business premises.
“The NBN will help to connect Queensland homes and businesses like never before, driving growth, innovation and opportunities for years to come,” Mr Finn said.
11 August, 2011
Bereavement service
for grieving victims
A free bereavement service has been established to help people come to terms with the loss of loved ones in Queensland’s natural disasters.
Premier, Anna Bligh, said the service was already making contact with families who had lost a loved one.
“To date nine families have been contacted and are receiving the support they need and we will continue to identify and make contact with bereaved families,” Ms Bligh said.
She said the skilled team was ready to respond with support that had been specifically tailored to suit a person or family’s particular needs.
“This service has been established with the expectation that grief among some families may not show its face for some time after tragedy has struck and that is why we will have these services available over the next two years,” she said.
“There are six members of the team plus a State-wide coordinator who is a clinical psychologist.”
Ms Bligh said the team included psychologists, social workers, mental health nurses and an Indigenous mental health worker who was also a psychologist.
“They have also undertaken a comprehensive orientation program to train specifically for this task.”
She said the bereavement service complemented a range of services that had been put in place to help Queenslanders.
She said the Government was now delivering an extra $12.5 million for more counselling and support services to help people in emotional distress.
The bereavement service would be free for family members who had lost someone as a result of the natural disasters and the team could be contacted on (07) 3121 1441.
11 August, 2011
Rockhampton to rock
in art, culture trial
Rockhampton has been chosen as one of two locations in Australia to take part in a three-year pilot program, targeted at further developing the arts and culture scene.
The State, Federal and Local Governments will invest $1.5 million in Rockhampton under the Cultural Places initiative, to boost cultural programs and provide increased opportunities for people to become involved in, produce and experience the arts.
Premier, Anna Bligh said the investment would significantly boost the region’s arts sector, with funding directed at increasing the capacity of existing local performances, workshops and festivals to deliver cultural experiences.
She said Rockhampton was the perfect choice as it already demonstrated a growing and keen interest in the arts and cultural activities.
MP for Rockhampton, Robert Schwarten said a local artistic producer, working with the Rockhampton Regional Council, would undertake community consultation in the coming months to ensure the program was grown from the heart of the region.
“Consultation will develop a regional program that could include funding for local artists to tour with their work, grants for emerging artists to develop their craft, or support for festivals that promote a sense of community and pride,” Mr Schwarten said.
Federal Minister for the Arts, Simon Crean said the Cultural Places initiative involved all levels of government working together to deliver cultural programs to regional areas.
Mr Crean said the Queensland pilot would be independently evaluated to inform decisions about the potential and value of broader applications.
The other of the two locations was Goolwa in South Australia.
11 August, 2011
Telehealth service
is far-sighted
Telehealth services at The Prince Charles Hospital (TPCH) are helping make life easier for regional patients with cystic fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension and those requiring assessment before and after lung transplantation.
The system allows patients with complex lung disease living in regional areas to have follow-up consultations with specialists by video-link.
Minister for Health, Geoff Wilson told of Cairns woman Sarah Mulligan’s experience after being a patient of the hospital’s Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Service for eight years.
Ms Mulligan was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at six weeks of age but can now speak to specialist staff from TPCH’s CF team every six weeks at her local community health centre.
“Prior to the introduction of telehealth clinics, Ms Mulligan would only have direct contact with the CF team via outreach clinics held in Cairns twice yearly, as well as during two hospital admissions each year,” Mr Wilson said.
“More regular contact means her condition can be monitored more closely and gives her access to a wide range of specialist staff including a CF physician, CF nurse, dietician, social worker and physiotherapist.”
Ms Mulligan said it was great to be able to speak to her doctor and other members of the team face-to-face.
“Because the team is so familiar with my medical situation, they can tell how I am feeling just by looking at me,” Ms Mulligan said.
Acting Director of Telehealth Services, Andrew Bryett said the service being provided from TPCH was helping to save patients like Ms Mulligan having to journey to Brisbane each year.
“The benefits for patients are enormous with reduced travel and less stress,” Mr Bryett said.
11 August, 2011
Cattle trucks to
be fast-tracked
The Department of Transport and Main Roads is to grant special access permits for Type 2 road trains along the Warrego Highway between Mitchell and Roma to allow maximum access to cattle now that the live cattle ban has been lifted.
The aim is to promote movement of cattle to Roma Saleyards - the largest in the Southern Hemisphere.
According to the Minister for Main Roads, Craig Wallace, only Type 1 road trains are normally allowed on that particular stretch of the Warrego, but the permits would provide temporary access to the longer Type 2 road trains.
Mr Wallace said his Department had been working with primary producers since the Federal Government first announced a ban on live exports and now the ban had been lifted it was working to get cattle moving again.
“I am pleased we’re able to assist where we can in getting cattle to market, and help alleviate some of the pressure cattle producers are currently facing,” Mr Wallace said.
He said the permit system would provide producers with a cost-efficient, timely way of accessing the local cattle market via Roma Saleyards.
“There is a big supply of livestock ready for sale due to the extended wet season and flooding experienced by many parts of Australia earlier this year, as well as a backlog from live export bans,” the Minister said.
“AgForce Queensland approached the Department and the Premier for assistance in moving cattle to market, with a particular focus on increasing access from the Northern Territory and South Australia via Mitchell.”
Mr Wallace said further investigation, including discussions with local police and an escorted trial run, had shown this could be achieved under strict conditions including night-time travel when other traffic was at a minimum, control at intersections in Roma, escorts and convoys at slower than posted speed limits.
11 August, 2011
Excellence awards
for excellent schools
A total of 24 State finalists have been chosen from 67 regional winners in the 2011 Showcase Awards for Excellence in Schools.
Minister for Education, Cameron Dick said the awards were an opportunity to reward educational programs that significantly improved student learning.
Each of the finalists will receive $5,000 in development grants.
Mr Dick said the awards covered eight categories including the three phases of learning, academic excellence, inclusive or innovative practices, leadership and partnerships with industry or the community.
He said eight State winners would be announced at the Showcase Gala Dinner at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on 21 October.
“The State winners will receive an additional grant of $20,000 each,” Mr Dick said.
The awards are judged by a board which includes educational experts, media and industry representatives.
The Minister announced the finalists as:
Showcase Award for Excellence in the Early Phase of Learning:
Bald Hills State School - Kick start to learning,
Glenden State School - Success in literacy - excellence in the early phase of learning, Quilpie
State College - GAME: getting a meaningful education.
Showcase Award for Excellence in the Middle Phase of Learning:
Gin Gin State High School - Gin Gin alternative pathways program,
Gladstone Central State School - Get into vocational education (GIVE) Gladstone, Indooroopilly
STEM Cluster - 2011 KIDS’ STEM convention: inspiration, investigation, celebration.
Showcase Award for Excellence in the Senior Phase of Learning:
Brisbane School of Distance Education - Freedom to learn - anyone, anywhere, anytime,
Burnside State High School -The little school that could,
Calen District State College - Reach for the stars and shine: monitoring and mapping for multiple pathways.
Showcase Award for Excellence in Inclusive Education:
Beenleigh State School - Beenleigh great futures - unity in diversity,
Centenary Heights State High School - Flexi School Campus - Flexi school - youth attainment and transition,
Upper Mount Gravatt State School - Every child, every chance, every day: inclusion through differentiation.
Showcase Award for Excellence in Leadership:
Goodna State School - Moving on up - nothing’s going to stop us now!
Kirwan State High School - Cultivating collaboration: a strategic approach to student wellbeing,
Woodridge State High School - Leading and transforming a school community.
Showcase Award for Excellence in Innovation:
Bulimba State School - Young minds grow in this garden,
Durack State School - 2011: Year of the dragon,
Southport State High School - Reading riot.
Showcase Award for Academic Excellence:
Cairns West State School – Academic success guarantee,
Kepnock State High School - ACE ‘M,
Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology - Faster, higher, stronger- world class education, world class outcomes.
Showcase Award for Excellence in Community or Industry Partnerships:
Gold Coast Special and Secondary Schools Cluster - My future, my choice,
Thuringowa State High School – Greenheart,
Trinity Beach State School Cluster – Bikebus.
11 August, 2011
Ombudsman on
show at show
Inspectors from the Fair Work Ombudsman are to visit the Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association of Queensland’s Exhibition Show, the Ekka.
Fair Work Ombudsman, Nicholas Wilson said the inspectors would be at the show to provide education and assistance to employers.
He said they would also monitor the employment records of dozens of employers to ensure casual employees were receiving their correct entitlements.
Mr Wilson said many young and potentially vulnerable employees would be engaged to work at the Ekka by transient employers.
“We think it is important to check that they are getting their full and appropriate entitlements,” Mr Wilson said.
He said Fair Work inspectors would also ensure employers were keeping time-and-wages records for all short-term staff and were issuing payslips.
They would provide information to businesses about the free tools and resources offered by the Fair Work Ombudsman to assist employers understand and comply with their obligations.
“It’s a fact that some businesses inadvertently breach workplace laws, but when we find mistakes, we’re here to help and give practical advice to employers on how to voluntarily fix them,” Mr Wilson said.
He said the Fair Work Ombudsman randomly audited 188 employers at the Royal Adelaide Show last year, finding 98 with contraventions.
“It is likely that some of those employers will also be attending the Ekka this year, and we hope to follow up with a number of them,” Mr Wilson said.
11 August, 2011
Coast water plans
go to water
Gold Coast City Council is to be allowed to split from its water business, Allconnex – but it will have to live with the consequences.
Premier, Anna Bligh said South East Queensland Councils had been given the opportunity to take back their water businesses so they could take some responsibility on the issue.
“Gold Coast City Council will now have to prove to their ratepayers what they have been saying all along - that is that they can provide water cheaper by taking back the water business under the Council banner.”
Minister for Energy and Water Utilities, Stephen Robertson said Gold Coast City Council would still be required to provide a price mitigation plan to the Government.
“They need to clearly demonstrate to their ratepayers what the cost of water will be going forward, under their chosen structure,” Mr Robertson said.
“I sincerely hope Gold Coast City Council has considered the interests of their local community with their decision. The judge and jury will be the ratepayers of the Gold Coast.”
He said the Government was doing all it could to put downward pressure on water prices including introducing a CPI cap over the next two years and announcing a proposal to allow Councils to have representation on their water boards.
“Now the Government will concentrate our efforts on drafting the necessary legislation that will allow Councils to demerge from their water distributor-retailers,” he said
The Gold Coast City Council voted to break away from Allconnex after water prices skyrocketed by $229 in a year, prompting a public backlash.
In April, Ms Bligh announced legislation to give South East Queensland Councils the ability to opt out of the three Government-imposed water utilities established in 2009.
At the time, she said Councils were profiteering from the utilities and the Government had to “protect ratepayers”, sparking condemnation from Councils that the move was politically motivated.
11 August, 2011
Smart teachers
a class apart
The 10th Annual Smart Classroom Awards recognise 10 teachers for outstanding innovation and excellence in information and communication technologies.
Minister for Education, Cameron Dick said that for the first time two technical support staff were also recognised.
The teachers and support staff receive $5,000 in professional development grants.
Mr Dick said improved access to eLearning opportunities and initiatives such as the Smart Classroom Awards were inspiring teachers to develop innovative digital teaching and learning practices.
“The 2011-12 State Budget has allocated over $100 million towards delivering a range of Smart Classrooms initiatives to improve student, teacher and parent access to digital learning materials,” Mr Dick said.
“The awards for Customer Service Excellence for the first time recognise and demonstrate the importance of the role of technical support staff in Queensland classrooms.”
The list of winners is:
2011 Smart Classrooms Awards for Teachers:
Ashley Proud, McDowall State School;
Rose Marszalek, Peregian Springs State School;
Sharon Baker, Hambledon State School;
Chris Gauthier, Cleveland District State High School;
Hazel Orr, Narangba Valley State School;
Judith Hinton, Frenchville State School;
Lisa Noonan, Sandy Straits State School;
Kristie Blakeney, Hambledon State School;
Tammy Duncalfe, Bracken Ridge State High School;
Tony McCormack, Charleville State High School.
Smart Classrooms Awards for Customer Service Excellence:
Darrell Collins, Systems Technician, Cairns Office, Far North Queensland;
Matthew MacGregor, Technical Officer, Highland Reserve State School and Coomera Rivers State School.
11 August, 2011
New police kennels
go to the dogs
A new canine kennel facility, established by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) at Murwillumbah on the Northern NSW coast, will service the Gold Coast Airport.
The facility is the first of nine to be opened at or near major airports across Australia. The program is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2013.
National Manager for Aviation with the AFP, Assistant Commissioner Shane Connelly said the Firearm and Explosive Detection (FED) dogs housed at Murwillumbah would support additional aviation security measures including checking facilities, aircraft, baggage and freight.
“This new facility will provide a new home and vital training for our canine team and enable the AFP to continue to provide first-rate security at Gold Coast Airport,” Assistant Commissioner Connelly said.
“This opening is the first in a series of new facilities that will continue to ensure the AFP is unwavering in its provision of security and safety for passengers and visitors to Australia’s major airports.”
He said the facility featured 10 overnight kennels; two isolation kennels for sick dogs or those needing to be separated from the other animals; six day runs; a vet treatment room; and an agility yard.
At present there were 46 FED and 10 Currency and Drug dog teams operating in 10 of Australia’s 11 major airports.
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor said the dogs were a highly specialised key resource for the AFP in the provision of airport security.
“Our current aviation security is among the best in the world and this new facility will further enhance our capabilities in this area,” Mr O’Connor said.
11 August, 2011
Vienna Philharmonic
to waltz into QPAC
The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) is to simulcast a live performance by the Vienna Philharmonic to thousands of music lovers in Rockhampton, Gladstone, Mount Isa, Townsville, Mackay and Cairns.
Premier, Anna Bligh said the Vienna Philharmonic was one of the world’s finest orchestras and this would be its first visit to Queensland.
“Such is the Philharmonic’s prestige and reputation there is a 10-year waiting list to see the Orchestra in its home city of Vienna; so it is with great delight we offer the opportunity to regional Queenslanders to experience this remarkable company,” Ms Bligh said.
Approximately 4,000 patrons were expected to attend the two performances in QPAC’s Concert Hall with a further 5,000 attending simulcast events throughout the State.
“Tickets to the regional broadcast of the concert on 3 October will be free, but bookings are essential as we anticipate that demand will be high,” the Premier said.
“This is the first time a live performance at QPAC has been simulcast to regional centres, and it marks the first phase of a project that will see QPAC simulcast a number of major productions in 2012, including those by Opera Australia in Brisbane.”
She said the simulcast project would be jointly funded with the Australian Government as part of a $2.4 million package to support access to the best in the arts for regional Queensland.
11 August, 2011
And in Other News...
Flood payouts permanent
Flood and cyclone victims who gained payouts from their insurers will not have to repay any grants they received from the Premier’s Disaster Relief Appeal.
Premier, Anna Bligh said people had suffered enough and she would not be asking them to repay money they received from the Appeal.
She said the Appeal was set up to help people rebuild their lives and that’s what it would do.
Terminal designs
A cutting-edge design has been selected to replace Brisbane’s CityCat and CityFerry terminals destroyed during the January floods.
The Cox Rayner Architects/Derlot/Aurecon consortium had won the international design competition for the new terminals.
The winning design is for a floating pontoon structure tethered to a single up-stream pier, which will be highly resilient in the event of future floods.
UQ Open day
The University of Queensland Gatton Open Day is to be held on 21 August.
Visitors can tour the new pool and gym complex, residences and world-class veterinary science facilities.
Students, lecturers and industry representatives will be available to discuss all of the diverse careers in the fields of agriculture, agribusiness, animals, veterinary science and food that the facility offers.
Tax Office building
A proposed office fit-out for the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) at 55 Elizabeth Street in Brisbane, has been the subject of an inquiry by the Federal Public Works Committee.
The ATO will be the sole tenant of the office space, occupying 14 floors and 18,000 square metres in a new building in the Brisbane central business district.
The estimated cost of the proposal is $33.1 million and if approval is given, work will begin in May 2012 and be complete one year later.
Mediators wanted
Indigenous mediators who want to help their community members find workable solutions to their disputes, are being sought for Brisbane.
The Dispute Resolution Branch of the Department of Justice and Attorney-General said it wanted Indigenous people who had skills or an interest in mediation to join its staff.
Successful candidates will receive training from the Department of Justice and Attorney-General and work with the South Queensland Dispute Resolution Centre.
Mediators act as an impartial third party and guide others through a structured mediation process.
The closing date for applications is 22 August.
Crime busters launched
Crime Busters, an innovative partnership between the Queensland Police Service and the Gold Coast Bulletin, has been launched by Queensland Police Commissioner, Bob Atkinson and Assistant Commissioner, Paul Wilson.
The Bulletin has created a web page dedicated to the initiative which includes a map detailing where crime has occurred across the Gold Coast.
The map will be regularly updated, and details about the latest crimes as well as unsolved crimes, CCTV images of crime and crime prevention tips will be available.
Big idea for businesses
Innovative businesses have been urged to enter the What’s Your Big Idea Queensland? competition.
Grants of up to $50,000 are available for Queensland’s most innovative business ideas.
A successful pilot round was run earlier this year, attracting more than 600 applicants, and funding has been increased by $3 million in the State Budget.
Arts projects funded
A total of 37 arts projects have been successful in the latest round of arts funding for music, dance, design, theatre, writing and festivals.
The projects will share in $820,596, with half being delivered in regional Queensland
The successful candidates match the priorities set out in the Queensland Arts and Cultural Sector Plan 2010-2013.
4 August, 2011
DPC unit to implement
flood proposals
A new dedicated work unit is to be set up in the Department of Premier and Cabinet to co-ordinate the Government’s response to the interim report of the Queensland Floods Commission of Inquiry.
The Inquiry has made 175 recommendations so far, 104 of which apply to the State Government and all of which Premier, Anna Bligh has promised to implement.
Receiving the Inquiry’s Interim Report from the Commissioner, Supreme Court Justice Catherine Holmes, Ms Bligh said a swift and comprehensive response was necessary to honour those whose lives were lost, whose lives were devastated, and who suffered in the floods.
“We will pull out all the stops to ensure every one of the recommendations is implemented, and I will make this my responsibility,” Ms Bligh said.
“I will establish a dedicated unit within the Department of Premier and Cabinet to co-ordinate the response across a number of Government Agencies.”
She said she would be writing to all Ministers and Directors-General to convene a State Disaster Management Group to begin the implementation of the recommendations from the report.
Commissioner Justice Holmes was assisted by Deputy Commissioners, former Police Commissioner, Jim O’Sullivan and international dam expert, Phil Cummins.
They received more than 660 written public submissions and during the seven weeks of hearings heard evidence from 167 witnesses, with daily transcripts posted online.
The Commission considered thousands of pages of documents in preparing its report.
Ms Bligh said in January that she gave an undertaking that the Inquiry would have the full powers of a Royal Commission so that the preparation and response to the floods could be thoroughly examined openly, transparently and honestly.
She said the Government had already taken steps to prepare for the next wet season with 17 new disaster response staff to ensure 24/7 watch desk capacity at the State Disaster Coordination Centre, and extra regional staff for each of Emergency Management Queensland’s seven regions.
The Commission’s second report covering longer term issues such as town planning and insurance would be due on 24 February 2012.
4 August, 2011
Archives advice puts
grants on record
Queensland State Archives has issued a Public Records Brief advising public authorities on the record-keeping requirements related to the administration of grants.
The Brief states that grants can be in the nature of incentives, donations, contributions, debts forgiven, rebates, tax relief and other similar funding arrangements and may also be cash or other property.
It says a public record of grant funding was data in any form which provided evidence of how grant funds had been allocated, monitored and evaluated.
The Brief warns that as with other decisions made within Government, appropriate and sufficient evidence should be kept and filed to support all decisions and proceedings relating to the administration of a grant program, from initial approval to finalisation.
It says the best way to ensure the evidence existed was to keep full and accurate public records of everything connected with the grant.
It says that in some cases, working papers used to draft, prepare or calculate final documents related to a grant needed to be retained as public records. In other cases, drafts could be disposed of when reference to the record had ceased.
Generally, according to the Brief, the decision to keep drafts depended on the business function and activity to which it related.
High risk processes required a ‘fuller’ or more detailed record, and this may involve keeping several drafts.
The Brief makes the point that record-keeping was important because public authorities were accountable to the public via Parliament for the use of public funds.
It says appropriate and sufficient evidence should be retained to support all decisions.
Records of decisions and actions must be created and maintained within the public authority’s recordkeeping systems to allow information about a grant to be easily retrieved, understood, and reported as required.
Records should be made simultaneously or as soon as practicable following the communication, event or action to which they related.
The Public Records Brief Grant funding – recordkeeping requirements can be accessed at this PS News link.
4 August, 2011
Superannuation plan
has defined benefits
The Federal Minister for Public Sector Superannuation has called on the States and Territories to manage some of the PS superannuation schemes centrally.
The Minister, Senator Nick Sherry, outlined the benefits of a ‘partnership’ between the administrators of PS super schemes offering ‘defined benefits’ to a conference of Government Superannuation Funds in Perth.
Senator Sherry said there were still 33 defined benefit schemes operating in Australia, mostly in the public sector and mostly closed.
He said in 1982-83 around 82 per cent of the members of PS super funds were in defined benefit schemes but by 2008 the number had fallen to two per cent.
“Looking forward [the schemes] will generate considerable challenges,” Senator Sherry said.
“Economies could be achieved across jurisdictions.”
He said the core problem was that fund managers needed to maintain effective administration of closed schemes while cash flow and membership declined.
“I believe you should consider the fundamental issue of better cooperation across jurisdictions to meet these challenges,” Senator Sherry told the fund managers.
“In the mature superannuation market we have today, is superannuation administration a core business of any government?”
He said there were a number of common factors in the old style schemes that made them difficult to administer.
“Calculating a member’s benefit in a defined benefit scheme involves a much more complex process than in a defined contribution scheme.”
He said the data and systems used to manage the schemes were sometimes ‘decades old’; there was a diminishing number of ‘subject matter experts’ who understood the intricacies of the schemes; and importantly, they were closed.
“There is a risk if we don’t start talking to each other soon that opportunities to work together to create critical mass and to reduce costs will be lost, as each jurisdiction looks to identify its own solutions,” Senator Sherry said.
“It is likely to become increasingly difficult to attract and retain capable people with aspirations of a long-term career in superannuation administration, particularly defined benefit administration.”
He said there could be opportunities for administrators to work together “given similarities in scheme designs, member demographics and challenges faced.”
The full text of the Minister’s speech can be accessed at this PS News link.
4 August, 2011
Capacity review is
dam good idea
The Minister for Energy and Water Utilities has ordered his Department to fast-track an investigation into raising the Wivenhoe Dam walls to allow the dam to hold more water and mitigate possible flood damage in the future.
Stephen Robertson said he had instructed the Department to make the issue its top priority.
“This investigation will involve all the relevant Water Agencies such as Seqwater and the Queensland Water Commission,” Mr Robertson said.
He said he accepted the findings of the Floods Commission of Inquiry and the Government must do things better in the future.
“We will implement all of these findings, including reducing Wivenhoe Dam’s full supply level to 75 per cent of current design capacity if the Bureau of Meteorology provides advice, in the lead up to a wet season, that similar rainfall levels to last wet season are expected,” he said.
“We will also legislate to ensure there is greater clarity and understanding about whose role it is to undertake certain actions in relation to our dams in times of heavy rainfall.”
Mr Robertson said key initiatives already underway by Seqwater included the establishment of a new Flood Operation Centre which became fully operational last month; recruitment of additional duty engineers and flood officers; investigations into increasing the number of rainfall gauges in the catchment; and training programs to reflect a potential change in Wivenhoe Dam’s full supply level ahead of the coming wet season.
4 August, 2011
Guideline puts images
in the picture
A Public Records Brief has been issued on the management of digital photographic images.
Published by Queensland State Archives, the Brief provides an introduction to the Archives’ 51-page guideline Managing Digital Photographic Images which contains advice to assist public authorities in meeting their information management and record-keeping obligations under the Public Records Act 2002.
The guideline says that where any type of image optimisation is desired, master images should be preserved and a working copy created.
It says dependence on proprietary file formats should be avoided as far as possible to help ensure the accessibility of the images over time.
It suggests file formats be limited to TIFF (Tagged Image File Format); PNG (Portable Network Graphics); JPEG or JFIF (Joint Photographic Experts Group File Interchange Format) as well as Adobe DNG (Digital Negative).
The guideline says that to facilitate the continuing management and retrieval of digital photographic images, Queensland public authorities should adhere to at least the minimum mandatory requirements of Queensland Recordkeeping Metadata Standard and Guideline (QRKMS) as specified in Principle Seven of Information Standard 40: Record-keeping.
It says public authorities should only keep digital photographic images that provide the best evidence of business activity.
“Ephemeral photos (e.g. images not considered to be best evidence, duplicates) should be disposed of.”
“Images retained as public records should be sentenced according to the General Retention and Disposal Schedule for Administrative Records or the Agency’s core business Retention and Disposal Schedule.”
The guideline can be accessed at the Queensland State Archives website this PS News link.
4 August, 2011
New speed cameras
click with motorists
New digital fixed speed cameras have been commissioned in Ashgrove, Sunnybank Hills, Loganholme, Nudgee and in Brisbane’s north.
Minister for Police, Neil Roberts and Acting Police Commissioner Ian Stewart announced the new high-tech facilities saying said they had undergone comprehensive testing.
They said new combined digital speed/red light camera systems had been switched on in Ashgrove at the Waterworks Road and Jubilee Terrace intersection and in Sunnybank Hills at Beaudesert Road and Compton Road.
Digital fixed point speed cameras had been installed in Loganholme on the Pacific Motorway and in Nudgee on the Gateway Motorway.
Two standalone fixed speed cameras had been placed on the Bruce Highway north of Brisbane.
“The Queensland Police Service (QPS) is organising additional temporary signs at these sites to advise drivers the cameras are becoming operational,” Mr Roberts said.
“Prior to the signs being erected, the trial indicated a great number of speeding vehicles, but the QPS was not enforcing at that stage.”
He said that on one day in May, about 168,000 vehicles travelled through the six trial fixed camera sites and four per cent were speeding.
On 5 July, after signage had been erected, only one per cent was speeding.
Mr Roberts said the cameras would be switched over to point-to-point mode later in the year after further work on the technology was completed.
“These new sites will take the total number of fixed speed camera sites in South East Queensland to 16,” he said.
Acting Police Commissioner Ian Stewart said the sites selected for the new digital cameras had a history of crashes which had resulted in either fatalities or serious injuries.
4 August, 2011
Rail network links
up with internet
Queensland Rail is to install Australia’s first free wi-fi technology on trains to allow passengers to enjoy internet access while they travel.
Wi-fi will be rolled out on all new city trains from later this year.
The Minister for Transport, Annastacia Palaszczuk said the move followed a successful trial of wi-fi on trains and would cost the Government $6.5 million to install it across the network.
Ms Palaszczuk said the trial had been a huge success.
“This has never been done before on trains in Australia,” she said.
“The technology has been installed and is now fully operational on the test-train with customers able to sit back and take advantage of the free internet on their journey to and from work.”
She said installation on the first of 64 new trains would begin in October and she expected wi-fi to be installed across the entire 160 and 260 series fleet by the end of next year.
“These trains travel across the entire City network, so at any time, anywhere, a train commuter can access the internet for free.”
Chief Executive of Queensland Rail, Paul Scurrah said the wi-fi trial had allowed the technological bugs to be ironed out to make for a smooth implementation across the fleet.
“It was essential to get everything right in the trial to avoid costly and time-consuming issues when the technology was installed more broadly,” Mr Scurrah said.
“This project isn’t only about free internet for our customers, but it also increases our security capacity by allowing live streaming from our CCTV cameras on board the wi-fi trains.”
4 August, 2011
Security crackdown
threatens licences
The Government has put 144 security firms on notice.
The companies have been warned by the Office of Fair Trading they risk losing their licences if they fail to abide by strict rules and regulations around the industry.
The firms in question had failed to meet new requirements introduced in April that made it mandatory for Queensland security firms to be members of approved industry bodies.
Deputy Premier, Paul Lucas said that under the new rules, it was mandatory for security firms to become a member of an approved association which would audit them against the body’s code of conduct.
Mr Lucas said this was in addition to rigorous identification, probity testing and compliance operations carried out by the Office of Fair Trading to ensure the security industry was meeting State standards.
“The message to security firms is clear,” Mr Lucas said.
“If they are not acting lawfully, they should be dealt with and they will be dealt with.”
He said more than 1,100 firms were meeting the new requirements but those who were flouting the rules would lose their licence and individuals operating a security firm without an appropriate licence faced fines of up to $50,000.
“Like many Queensland parents, I want my children to be in a safe environment if they choose to have a night on the town,” he said.
“Security providers play a key role in keeping patrons and staff safe but it’s important we have the right people in these positions and that they conduct themselves in a professional and lawful manner.”
Mr Lucas said the Government was continuing to implement a national approach to the security industry agreed to by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) in 2008.
4 August, 2011
Skills training to
meet demand
A review of post secondary education has revealed that Queensland is on the verge of a new era in vocational education and training (VET).
A Ministerial taskforce is to be established to oversee projected reforms outlined in the review entitled the Queensland Post Secondary and Education and Training Review.
Minister for Employment and Skills, Stirling Hinchliffe said the latest Business Outlook report showed that Queensland was a magnet for massive business investment, clocking up a record $184.5 billion in known projects for the June Quarter alone.
“Those billions of dollars in projects mean skilled Queensland workers will be in high demand and that’s where the vocational education and training sector has a key, if not crucial, role to play,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“Our planned reforms are about attracting more people from rural and regional Queensland to take up tertiary education and training.
“We also want to boost the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders on our books.”
The Minister said the reforms would help the State Government reach its 2020 target of three out of four Queenslanders having a trade, training or tertiary qualification.
“To this end, we want to see public and private training and higher education providers and industry work side-by-side in building workforce skills,” he said.
“It’s a partnership that will ultimately pave the way to greater prosperity and productivity.”
He said central to the reforms was a clear and purposeful role for TAFE institutes. “That’s where the new Ministerial Taskforce will have a big role to play, providing expert advice based on the review’s findings, feedback from stakeholders and the wider national reforms,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
4 August, 2011
Boating law reforms
launched
A raft of reforms to recreational boating laws has been announced.
Minister for Marine Infrastructure, Craig Wallace unveiled the reforms saying a major focus was on enhanced night and electronic navigation training for all new licence holders.
Mr Wallace said that under the new rules, instructors providing licence courses through the BoatSafe program would offer additional training covering all aspects of safe navigation.
He said good navigation skills were always important but even more so for skippers of larger boats.
“We will also be introducing a new boating licence class to encourage a high standard of safety in larger recreational craft,” Mr Wallace said.
“We’ve found that the larger boats, 12 metres and longer, are over-represented in serious marine incidents.
“The new licences will not affect current recreational marine driver and commercial master licence holders or the size of vessel they can operate, either now or in the future.”
He said the safety reforms would come into effect from January 2012 with the exception of the enhanced licence for vessels over 12 metres which would take effect from January 2013.
Mr Wallace said the new boating safety laws were in response to the Improving Recreational Boating Safety Discussion Paper, and the findings of a number of coronial inquests.
“We’re encouraging operators of smaller recreational craft to improve their safety skills as well,” he said.
“And we strongly urge all boaties to remember to wear lifejackets in busy waterways or during bad weather and always when boating alone or at night.”
4 August, 2011
Master plan shows
way for highway
A 20-year master plan for future upgrades to the Bruce Highway has been released.
The strategy has been developed by the Department of Local Government and Planning in consultation with the Australian Government and will ensure that Queensland has a safe, efficient and reliable highway that is more resilient to extreme wet weather conditions.
The Department is now seeking feedback from the community, Councils, industry and other organisations to ensure the strategy aligns with community priorities.
The upgrade strategy has been divided into three phases: short-term (one to four years); medium-term (five to 10 years); and long-term (11 to 20 years) with the State and Federal Governments spending $2 billion over the next four years.
The plan proposes 60 projects including 10 ring roads, bypasses and deviations along the length of the highway at centres such as Gympie, Rockhampton, Mackay, Innisfail, Childers and Ingham.
It also expands the highway to at least four lanes for the entire journey between Brisbane and Bundaberg and sets out 340 kilometres of duplication over the next 20 years.
More information is available from this PS News link or by phone on 1800 093 903.
Feedback can be sent to waytogrow@qld.gov.au by 9 September.
4 August, 2011
Flu warning is
good medicine
Queensland employers have been warned that the flu season is in full swing and staff may need time off to deal with it.
Executive Director of Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, Simon Blackwood said an increase in influenza notifications compared with this time last year highlighted that many workplaces were suffering staff shortages as workers succumbed to the flu.
“It is estimated more than one million working days are lost in Australia each year to the flu, with up to 10 per cent of staff becoming ill,” Dr Blackwood said.
“Influenza is a debilitating viral illness and is contagious even before symptoms appear.
“And this year, so far, the figures are not encouraging, with more than five times the number of cases being reported than last year, including swine flu.”
He said people with serious colds and the flu should consider their fellow workers and stay away from work until they were cleared by a doctor.
Dr Blackwood said if employees were ill, employers should encourage them to stay at home until the infection subsides.
“Alternatively, employees should consider cancelling face-to-face meetings and encourage non-contact methods of communicating such as teleconferences until they are no longer contagious,” he said.
He advised employers to consider fast-tracking a flu vaccination program for employees to reduce sick-leave and absenteeism.
“It is the most effective way to prevent flu infection,” Dr Blackwood said.
4 August, 2011
Researchers go into
bat against Hendra
The Queensland and NSW Governments are to share the costs of a $6 million boost in research funding for work on the Hendra virus.
Premier, Anna Bligh announced the funding after a meeting with members of the Hendra Virus Taskforce.
Ms Bligh said the increase in Hendra incidents this year, including the announcement of a positive case in a dog, had raised new questions and challenges for scientists.
“This additional investment will ramp up vital research to help us better understand and respond to the Hendra virus,” Ms Bligh said.
The Taskforce highlighted three areas for further investigation, which included finding out why the virus spilt over from flying foxes; how horses and other animals are exposed to the Hendra virus; and why there was such a spike in cases this year.
Ms Bligh said the extra funding would quadruple research dollars to a pool of $7.8 million from the two frontline States of Queensland and NSW.
“This year we have seen an increase in the number of confirmed cases of Hendra virus infection and our analysis of local flying fox population shows a rise in the number of flying foxes carrying the virus,” she said.
“This additional funding will allow us to increase our understanding of why this may be happening and also how the disease is transmitted.”
She said the research would include examining how the disease behaved in flying fox colonies; how horses and flying foxes interacted; and how environmental factors, such as food availability, temperature and rainfall, impacted on the likelihood of the disease being transmitted from flying foxes to humans.
“If we can better understand what is occurring, we can put in place strategies to prevent disease in horses and, in turn, reduce the risk to people,” the Premier said.
“We already know that flying foxes are attracted to particular types of trees and that the virus is likely to be transmitted through flying fox excretions,” she said.
4 August, 2011
New roadsigns are
signs of recovery
In one of the largest roadside installation programs in the State, more than 5,000 new road signs are being replaced across Far North Queensland in the wake of Cyclone Yasi.
A total of $4.1 million has been set aside under Operation Queenslander to progressively install the new signs over several months.
Federal Minister Assisting the Attorney-General on Queensland Flood Recovery, Senator Joe Ludwig said the signs would make the roads better, safer and more resilient than before.
“Further,” Senator Ludwig said, “this project will create 27 direct and indirect jobs – which is particularly vital for the Far North Queensland economy.
“Cyclone Yasi wreaked havoc in the Cassowary Coast region, Cairns and on the Atherton Tablelands where gale-force winds damaged or destroyed many warning, regulatory and guide signs,” he said.
Minister for Roads, Craig Wallace said the signs, which were a mixture of white speed, yellow warning, green guide and white-on-brown tourist signs, took a severe battering during the Category 5 cyclone.
“Some of these signs, which are made of strong aluminum, were damaged to such an extent that temporary signs were needed until we were able to replace them properly,” Mr Wallace said.
“It shows just how intense the storm that Far North Queensland had to endure really was.
“It is quite incredible that an act of rain and wind could cause such destruction.”
Mr Wallace said Queensland’s road network received more damage than any other State Government asset during the flooding and cyclone events, with reconstruction efforts expected to take many years.
4 August, 2011
Student award
gets top marks
A new award scheme for undergraduates has been launched by the University of Queensland (UQ).
The UQ Career Advantage Award will be implemented in 2012.
According to the Director of the Office of Undergraduate Education at UQ, Sushila Chang the new award was a special one to accompany students’ resumes and academic transcripts upon graduation.
Professor Chang said the award would acknowledge students who had invested time, passion and commitment in the activities that provided them with the skills that gave them the edge in their future careers.
“Students coming to UQ are fortunate to have access to the UQ Advantage - this is a distinctive student experience derived from UQ’s research, international, professional and industry links,” Professor Chang said.
“UQ offers a myriad of academic and extracurricular activities and opportunities comparable to the best educational institutions in the world.
“The new Award will acknowledge students’ commitment to obtaining global, leadership, and research skills during their time at UQ.”
She said students who chose to commit themselves in that way positioned themselves to be more effective graduates and potential leaders in the future.
They would have a better understanding of their personal and professional responsibilities in the context of the global community.
Professor Chang said the UQ Advantage Award would recognise students’ participation in activities in three areas: Global and Cultural Experiences, Social Responsibility and Leadership and Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
4 August, 2011
Funny money is
serious business
A campaign to attract interstate investment in Queensland has been launched with the printing of more than $4 trillion dollars in play money.
The eye-catching $10,000 ‘notes’ are designed to attract the attention of potential investors at the same time as the $140 million Queensland Building Boost begins.
Premier, Anna Bligh said the Building Boost would provide grants of $10,000 to people buying or building a new home in Queensland under the value of $600,000.
She said applications for the funding were now open and would be received until 31 January 2012.
Ms Bligh said the Building Boost was the stimulus the construction sector needed because housing construction was a major employer in Queensland and it had been hit hard by the Global Financial Crisis.
“This is a $140 million Budget initiative aimed fairly and squarely at boosting the sector and boosting jobs and we are making a grab for investment from the Southern States as well as Queensland,” Ms Bligh said.
“Building more houses will not only stimulate employment, but it will create more housing stock – something a growing State like Queensland needs.”
She said the $1,000 notes would be mailed out to 1.4 million households in Queensland, 1.53 million in Greater Sydney and 1.45 million in Melbourne at a cost of $250,000.
“If just one of the millions of people who receive it takes up the opportunity to invest in Queensland it will have paid for itself,” Ms Bligh said.
4 August, 2011
And in Other News...
Breathalyser boat busy
Queensland’s first permanent ‘breathalysing boat’ will be on the North Queensland waters seeking out drink-drivers.
Maritime Safety Queensland purchased the $9,000 state-of-the-art breathalyser unit and has officially presented it to the Cairns Water Police.
Data has revealed alcohol was a contributing factor in 10 out of a total 50 deaths in marine incidents in the Cairns region since 1992.
Toowoomba plan out
Toowoomba Regional Council’s new draft planning scheme is open for public consultation.
The new scheme is the first in Queensland to be aligned with the Queensland Planning Provisions.
Toowoomba Regional Council is the first of 73 Local Governments in the State to launch a draft local planning scheme.
Creeks named
Two Glenwood creeks have been officially named Deacons Creek and Kelihers Creek after pioneering families.
The creeks flow through the properties that the Deacon and Keliher families owned and farmed in the early 1890s.
A gully near the Beerwah township has been officially named Waldrons Gully after Francis Waldron who immigrated to Australia in 1882.
The gully runs through the properties that Mr Waldron purchased and owned until his death in 1928.
Training centre is 5
The SkillsTech Australia trade and technician training centre is celebrating its fifth anniversary.
The centre has trained some 55,000 apprentices and trainees in the past five years in the automotive, building and construction industries, electrical trades and electronics, manufacturing and engineering.
More than 16,000 students have received qualifications in general construction and another 13,000 people have qualifications in electrotechnology from the centre.
|
|