20 December, 2005
Identity Fraud a Growing Problem for Higher Education
A new report that looks into the problem of identity fraud in the higher education sector also points out ways to solve it.
Entitled Identification Processes in the Higher Education Sector: Risks and Countermeasures, ther report analyses how government, business and individuals can share in the task of preventing identity thieves from dishonestly enrolling and graduating from higher education institutions.
Identity fraud is one of this century's most intractable crime problems, said the Director of the Australian Institute of Criminology, Dr Toni Makkai,
"In 2001-02 it was estimated that identity fraud cost $1.1 billion in Australia alone," Dr Makkai said. “Computer technologies provide opportunities for the alteration or counterfeiting of documents used to support an individual's identity.”
He said student cards were sometimes accepted with only rudimentary forms of security against alteration or counterfeiting.
“Often only one method of proof of identity is required. Few attempts are made to validate the applicant's name, date of birth, citizenship and education record with external issuing authorities. A false student identity card can be used in conjunction with other documents which can also be counterfeited to form part of a chain of documents used to perpetrate a wide range of financial crimes."
The new report looks at different types of fraud in the higher education sector, including enrolment, Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) certificates, student identity cards, student loans, examinations, essays, dishonest use of databases, qualifications, testamur, HECS debt evasion, employment applications and administration and research grants.
Dr Makkai said enrolment was the point at which the most stringent verification procedures should be applied to prospective students.
Prevention strategies are needed to address the use of improperly granted qualifications or misleading resumes to obtain academic positions, promotion and research funding.
The report concluded that while computer technology had increased the opportunity for identity-related fraud, it also provided the means to verify the authenticity of information more easily.
New Facility Takes Air Control to New Heights
A new $2.9 million air traffic control centre in Melbourne will enable Airservices Australia to maintain its status as a world leader in air traffic controller training.
Nick Burton Taylor, chairman of Airservices Australia opened the new facility that will fulfil the organisation’s in-house and external training requirements.
“Airservices Australia and its predecessor organisations have a proud history of training and this new facility will ensure our world-leading reputation is maintained,” Mr Burton Taylor said.
“The new facility includes an array of simulators, improved amenities for students and importantly is close to our Melbourne air traffic control centre from where we manage six per cent of the world’s airspace.”
A review of aviation safety events between 2000 and 2003 concluded that locating the facility with easy access to an operational area would assist controller training.
“With our dedicated staff continuing to provide the highest quality training and the new facility open for business, Airservices is ready to meet the organisation’s future personnel needs and also provide a world-class service to potential external clients.
“One of our first priorities will be to further explore the obvious synergies between Airservices Australia and the Australian Defence Force, particularly the Royal Australian Air Force.
“Providing a fully integrated training and development capability will ensure we can exceed the Government’s requirements in the national interest.”
The previous training facility was located five kilometres from the Melbourne air traffic control centre making it logistically difficult to visit an operational area.
20 December, 2005
Women’s Diplomatic Exhibition to Tour the World
An exhibition depicting the changing role of Australia's women diplomats is touring Australia and is soon to tour the world.
Entitled Women Working for Australia, the exhibition was developed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the 1975 International Year of Women. It was launched earlier this year by Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer.
The exhibition sets women's achievements against a backdrop of changing attitudes to gender equality. It pays tribute to women who, despite the prejudices and constraints of their era, played a role on the international stage and in Australia's diplomatic service.
Departmental Secretary, Michael L'Estrange, said although there were few women in the early days, they made an important contribution to our international representation and laid the foundations for more equitable involvement by Australian women in our international life.
"Their legacy continues - in the productive relations we enjoy with countries around the world, and in the more representative staff profile of today's department," Mr L'Estrange said.
Today, women make up more than 49 per cent of the department's staff. In 2005, women made up 25.5 per cent of the Senior Executive Service compared with 12.5 per cent a decade ago. Eighteen of Australia's diplomatic posts were headed by women in 2005, compared with just six a decade ago.
The exhibition includes photos, news clippings and official and personal correspondence depicting Australian women on the international stage (1920s), the department's first female cadets (1940s), female delegates to the UN in the 1940s, clerical staff (1920-1960s), the first high-level female diplomatic appointments (1950-70s), recent and contemporary female Ambassadors, Indigenous staff, women serving in war zones, women promoting peace, women in the department's Senior Executive and recent graduate recruits.
It's a tribute to the many talented women who have served the department and Australia.
20 December, 2005
Study Finds Most Students Work As Well
The Bureau of Statistics has found that most Australian students also hold down jobs, many of the full-time.
Sixty per cent of Australians aged 15-64 who were studying in May this year were employed the Bureau said. For those studying for a Bachelor degree or higher, the proportion was even greater, with two-thirds employed, and 39 per cent working full-time.
Around 2.3 million people were studying, of whom three in 10 (28 per cent) were studying for a Bachelor Degree. Just over one-quarter (26 per cent) were aged 15 to 19 years and 48 per cent were aged 20 to 24 years.
About 16 per cent of students (364,500) had not been enrolled in May 2004. Most were women (57 per cent), while less than one-third (31 per cent) were aged 25 to 34 years and 22 per cent were between 20 and 24.
Just over half (51 per cent) of all Australians have non-school qualifications (Bachelor degree, TAFE certificate, etc), up from 41 per cent in May 15. The increase was mainly in people whose highest non-school qualification was a Bachelor degree or above (12 per cent in 15 to 20 per cent in 2005).
The survey showed that people with qualifications tended to enjoy better employment. Of people with a non-school qualification, 82 per cent were employed, compared to 63 per cent of people without a non-school qualification. Further, employed people with a non-school qualification were more likely to work full time (77 per cent), than those without (64 per cent).
20 December, 2005
Federal Police Honoured with Awards
Australian Federal Police Commissioner Mick Keelty honoured the dedicated work of AFP staff by presenting 59 AFP members with 66 honours and awards in Canberra recently.
Federal Agents and Protective Service Officers from the AFP were recognised at the ceremony at the Great Hall, Parliament House in Canberra.
The awards Mr Keelty presented reflected the diverse nature of the AFP's work and included the Police Overseas Service Medal, National Medal and Clasps; Commissioner’s Medals for Excellence and Innovation, the Commissioner's Commendation for Bravery, Commissioner’s Group Citations for Bravery, Conspicuous Conduct, Excellence in Overseas Service and Hazardous Overseas Service.
Commissioner Keelty said the AFP dealt with criminal activity on a global, national and local level. “Our members are renowned for their professionalism when attending an incident,” he said.
Recognising their work validated their commitment and acknowledged the personal sacrifices made, he said and thanked the award winners for their valuable efforts in protecting the community.
The Australian Federal Police honours and awards program was established in 2004 to recognise outstanding staff. The awards and winners are:
Police Overseas Service Medal
Protective Service Officer Peter Lee Cook
Senior Constable Bradley Desmond Coulter
Federal Agent Donna-Lea Hofmeier
Nada Krstin
Andrew Richard Mackenzie
Protective Service Officer Cecilia Mary Robinson
National Medal
Anthony StanleyBerry
Detective Sergeant Brett Allan Booth
Constable Anthony Noel Brown
Federal Agent Jayne Evelyn Crossling
Federal Agent Corey Ellen Heldon
Federal Agent Michael John Howard
Constable Sam Kanawati
Protective Service Officer Douglas Raymond McMurtrie
Federal Agent Peter Charles Murphy
Constable Warwick Peter Sheils
National Medal First Clasp
Federal Agent Mark Anthony Colbran
Federal Agent Peter Thomas Drennan
Federal Agent Edwin Michael Fuderer
Federal Agent Craig Lawrence Jacobsen
Federal Agent Philip Neil Kowalick
Protective Service Officer Sava Matic Detective Sergeant Delia Josephine Quigley
Federal Agent Mark James Simpson
Federal Agent Michael Seiji Ward
Sergeant Melita Donna Zielonko
National Medal Second Clasp
Protective Service Officer Michael Devenish
Commissioner’s Medal for Excellence
Sergeant Stephen Paul Cooke
Anthony Thomas McInerny
Commissioner’s Medal for Innovation
Graham Phillip Wise
Commissioner’s Commendation for Bravery
Sergeant Melita Donna Zielonko
Commissioner’s Commendation for Conspicuous Conduct
Kathryn Frances Brookes
Detective Sergeant Mick Calatzis
Federal Agent Yvonne Kim Van Bree
Stewart Waters
Sergeant Benjamin Jeffrey Willis
Paul Shu Wong
Commissioner’s Group Citation for Bravery
Federal Agent Michael Stuart Kelsey
Federal Agent Ivan Kovacic
Lisa Jane Low
Commissioner’s Group Citation for Conspicuous Conduct
Constable Donna Marie Baker
Federal Agent Robert Mario Caruso
Federal Agent Gregory James Corin
Sophie Dixon
Federal Agent Karsten Wolfgang Lehn
Constable Joel Frank Van Den Brun
Constable David Joseph Wills
Commissioner’s Group Citation for Excellence in Overseas Service
Sophie Dixon
Ian Russell Edgar
Cherrone Maree Ellis
Protective Service Officer Peter Gerrard Engeler
Katrina Jane Gates
Federal Agent Bruce Edward Hill
Federal Agent Michael Stuart Kelsey
Protective Service Officer Bruce Kotz
Federal Agent Ivan Kovacic
Lisa Jane Low
Andrew Richard Mackenzie
Federal Agent Michael Shaun Murray
David John Ringrose
David John Royds
Protective Service Officer Robert Vincent Watson
Federal Agent Peter Charles Murphy
Commissioner’s Group Citation for Hazardous Overseas Service
Protective Service Officer Grade One Gregory Roy Douglas
Federal Agent Gregory Stewart Ranse
Australian Federal Police Operations Medal
Federal Agent Peter Charles Murphy
Antarctic Division taking Applications for Jobs
The Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) is looking for people prepared to take on the challenge and excitement of working in Antarctica and is advertising for staff to take up duty on the frozen continent in 2007.
Highly competent people with well developed social skills and suitable personal attributes are being sought to take part in Australia's Antarctic program for 2007 and future seasons, temporary positions available at Australia’s four research stations - Casey, Davis, Mawson and Macquarie Island.
Only Australian citizens or those who can prove they have the right to work in Australia will be considered for appointment and applications from people not living in Australia will be considered if the jobs can’t be filled locally.
Conditions of service and the selection process are outlined at www.aad.gov.au from where information, pre-requisites, closing dates and application forms can be downloaded as PDF or Word documents. The official application form must be accompanied by a relevant job questionnaire and medical history checklist.
Jobs in Station Support, the Scientific Group, Mechanical Trades, Telecommunications Group, Infrastructure Group and Expeditioners are being offered with work level standards links for further details given.
Applications for Infrastructure, Telecommunications and Mechanical Trades Groups closed on 12 December 2005 but those for Physicist and Electronics Engineer close on 16 January 2006, Station Leaders and Chefs close on 6 February 2006 and later closing dates may apply to some positions for consideration in 2007 selections.
20 December, 2005
Centrelink Busy Making Holiday Arrangements
Centrelink clients will not be disadvantaged by the Christmas/New Year public holidays under special arrangements for reporting dates.
General Manager of Centrelink, Hank Jongen said people should check the reporting dates on their forms as they may be able to return the form early.
"As the form covers the normal assessment period, customers will need to include an estimate of earnings for the full period shown on the form," Mr Jongen said.
"To make sure people provide accurate information about their earnings, customers can choose to return their form after the end of the assessment period. If a customer takes this option, they are reminded their payment cannot be paid until the form is returned.
"For people who are not required to return a form or report their earnings over the phone, their payments will not be delayed. In fact, some payments may be paid earlier than normal.
"To minimise the disruption to customers, payments made earlier than normal will be advanced by as few working days as possible.”
"However, people need to be aware the next payment will be paid on their normal payment day so customers should budget carefully to make sure the early payment lasts for an extra day or two," Mr Jongen said.
All Centrelink offices will be closed on Monday 26 December, Tuesday 27 December and Monday 2 January.
However, there will only be a limited number of staff available on 28 and 30 December, Mr Jongen said.
"We ask customers to be patient on these two days if they need to visit a Centrelink office and we apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused,"he said.
20 December, 2005
Prison Population Jumps Five Per Cent in One year
Australia's prisons held 25,400 people at 30 June 2005, a rise of five per cent on the previous year, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
For every 100,000 adults in Australia, 163 are in prison. The most common offences were acts intended to cause injury (15 per cent), unlawful entry with intent (13 per cent), sexual assault and related offences (12 per cent), robbery, extortion and related offences (11 per cent), homicide and related offences (10 per cent) and illicit drug offences (10 per cent).
Rates for indigenous Australians were up 12 per cent since 30 June 2004, the largest increase since 19, with indigenous people now making up 22 per cent (5700) of all prisoners.
The Bureau reported that most prisoners (60 per cent or 15,300) had previously served time in an adult prison before the current offence and more than half (51 per cent or 10,400) were sentenced in the 12 months preceding 30 June 2005. Two-thirds (67 per cent) of these prisoners had served a sentence in an adult prison prior to the current sentence.
; The average sentence length was three years, while the average expected time to serve was 23 months.
Other characteristics included:
* Men were almost 14 times more likely to be in prison than women (23,600 men and 1700 women)
* The number of male prisoners increased by five per cent (or 1100 prisoners) from 30 June 2004 while the number of female prisoners increased by four per cent (62 prisoners)
* The median age of all prisoners was 32 years
* The majority (71 per cent) of prisoners were aged between 20 and 39 years
* There were 5100 unsentenced prisoners on remand, an increase of four per cent from 30 June 2004
* Unsentenced prisoners in custody were on remand for an average of 2.8 months.
20 December, 2005
ASIO Launches Not-So-SecretRecruitment Drive
The usually reticent intelligence agency ASIO is to launch a high-profile advertising campaign in 2006 in an effort to attract the hundreds of new recruits it needs to fight the war on terror.
The Government has announced the agency will double its staffing to 1860 in the next five years and has decided a major advertising campaign is the way to go. It had already added 224 staff – the most ever in one year – to its establishment in the 2004-05 financial year.
The Government’s response to the terrorism threat has seen ASIO’s Budget allocation boom from $62.935 million in 2000-01 to $142.852 million in 2004-05. of that the agency spent over $750,000 on advertising which was three times the amount spent the previous year.
A spokeswoman for ASIO told the advertising industry’s B&T magazine said the agency would have an even larger budget next year to plough into advertising in a bid to encourage more Australians to become spies.
The agency would be advertising for people with a particular focus on leadership, investigative and analytical skills, language and cross-cultural training, as well as administrative and information technology training, the magazine said.
“I can confirm we will be carrying out a major campaign but I can’t say which (advertising) agencies we are using because it is confidential and we do not reveal that information,” the spokeswoman said.
The expected vacancies will be advertised in the major newspapers and the Organisation has paid for a sponsored link on the global search engine Google to find new generalist intelligence officers and would also be talking to universities to attract young graduates.
20 December, 2005
Tax Office Error Overcharges Thousands
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has admitted overcharging hundreds of thousands of taxpayers millions of dollars in excess interest and has started paying it back.
While the individual amounts involved are often less than $10, there are 218,508 people, 5,570 companies and 1,305 super funds owed somewhere between $150 million and $180 million.
The trouble was caused by an error in the Tax Office system calculating the general interest charge for 13 to 19 for some taxpayers.
All those who were overcharged will have interest refunded and receive compensation which will be applied at the base interest rate (90-day Bank Accepted Bill rate) which is currently 5.62 per cent. Those affected will be contacted directly.
The problem was identified in the ATO Annual Report for 2004-05 and staff have been working to address the issue since June this year. Work is still being done to calculate the exact amounts for refunds and compensation and affected people are asked to be patient while information is extracted from ATO’s systems. Some of this data is more than 10 years old.
Amounts to be paid have yet to be finalised so Tax Office help desks will be unable to provide assistance at this time. However by late January 2006, the ATO expects to make another public announcement about the matter. Tax agents with affected clients will be contacted directly.
The Tax Office now has systems in place to ensure the mistake is not repeated and all new systems and major changes to existing systems are to go through a legal technical assurance process.
The Tax Office is working to resolve this matter as quickly as possible and has apologised for any inconvenience.
20 December, 2005
Heritage List Salvages HMVS Cerberus
An old steam-powered warship that guarded Australia from 1871 to Federation has been placed on the National Heritage List.3
The last of its kind in the world, HMVS Cerberus reflects a period in Australia's history just after the Crimean War, when the colonies felt vulnerable to coastal attack and invasion by Russian forces, said Environment and Heritage Minister Ian Campbell.
“Named after the mythological three headed guard-dog of Hades, the HMVS Cerberus in her prime was an outstanding example of technical achievement and ingenuity,” Senator Campbell said.
“Launched in 1868, she served in three navies of the one nation. Her initial role was to protect Melbourne and Victoria’s gold riches for the Victorian Colonial Navy.
She was transferred to the Commonwealth naval forces on Federation in 1901 and was eventually commissioned as the capital ship in the Royal Australian Navy when it was formed after Federation in 1911,” he said.
HMVS Cerberus was one of the earliest Monitor style warships in the world, with hull and superstructure completely encased in iron, a radical departure from the wooden hulled warships that dominated the world’s navies at that time. Without masts, these ships were the first British designed warships to be powered purely by steam. They were also the first ships to have a central superstructure, with rotating gun turrets above deck both fore and aft.
In 53 years of service, the Cerberus never fired a shell at an enemy. The closest was an attempt to apprehend a small trading vessel when it tried to evade customs duties by sneaking up Port Phillip Bay. The crew raised the alarm but the tide had turned and the ship’s guns were facing towards the shore. As a result, their fire blew the roof off a chemist shop in St Kilda and hit the Gellibrand Lighthouse.
“Despite never seeing active service, the Cerberusremains an important part of our naval heritage, for her role in the development of Australia as a nation,” Senator Campbell said.
HMVS Cerberus was scuttled at Half Moon Bay in Black Rock, Victoria, in 1926. The Black Rock Yacht Club has used the ship as a breakwater to protect its slips from the rough waters of Port Phillip Bay.
The ship joins 20 others on the National Heritage List, including Kurnell Peninsula where Captain Cook first set foot in Australia, well known convict sites like Tasmania’s Port Arthur and Western Australia’s Fremantle Prison and the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne where Federal Parliament sat for its first 27 years.
More information is available from www.deh.gov.au/heritage/national/index.html.
20 December, 2005
South Australia Gets New Quarantine Facility
South Australian exporters and importers are set to benefit from a new $5 million one-stop-shop for the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS).
The new complex will improve access to for export facilitation and certification, assisting businesses and the community and was opened recently by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Peter McGauran, who said AQIS was being brought closer to its clients, saving them time and money.
"This helps businesses working directly with AQIS and in turn, delivers wider efficiencies and economic benefits, especially for our primary export industries," Mr McGauran said.
"In 17, there were 50 AQIS staff based in Adelaide, but this new facility will be home to more than double that number, responsible for tasks ranging from inspection and certification to scientific and administrative support.”
“This expansion underlines the importance of our quarantine regime to South Australia.
Mr McGauran said quarantine was essential to the government's commitment to border protection and to supporting the $30 billion a year agricultural export industries. The AQIS presence in South Australia had expanded to meet the challenges of providing prompt, accurate certification services to exporters.
"Last year, for example, SA exported four million tonnes of grain and seafood valued at more than $400 million," Mr McGauran said.
"Better access to markets such as China will provide new opportunities for AQIS to work with clients such as the citrus industry," he said.
Mr McGauran said the new facility complemented upgraded quarantine resources at Adelaide's International Airport, where AQIS has three detector dog teams, three X-ray machines and additional inspection benches.
AQIS systems were also designed to expand as traffic into Adelaide expands.
20 December, 2005
Government Out to Get Serial Spamsters
Public submissions are being sought as part of a review of the Spam Act 2003 which the Minister for Communication says has made Australia a leader in the war on cyber-spam.
The Minister, Senator Helen Coonan, said the Australian Spam Act was internationally recognised as a leading legislative model and was being used to crack down on the scourge of spam that was overloading people’s in-boxes and causing great frustration.
“Since the Act came into effect, many professional spammers that had been based in Australia have either shut up shop or left the country,” Seantor Coonan said.
She said Australia’s Spam Act applied to commercial electronic messages, including spam sent via email, SMS, instant messaging and multimedia messaging service. The government committed to a review within two years of the Spam Act’s implementation and the public consultation process was underway as part of that review. Feedback would contribute to a report for Parliament in 2006.
“A great deal of spam continues to be received from overseas sources,’ Sentaor Coonan said.
“It is an international problem requiring an approach that focuses on both domestic and international initiatives.”
“The government remains committed to a multi-layered strategy against spam that includes international cooperation, industry codes of practice, education and awareness activities and the promotion of technical countermeasures.”
Australia was promoting international collaboration through the OECD, International Telecommunications Union and APEC.
“In 2003 when the legislation was introduced, spam email was recognised as the most significant part of the problem. Although this is still true today, the Australian Communications and Media Authority has reported that spam sent via SMS was an increasing concern for consumers,” Senator Coonan said.
“Given the strength and general nature of the legislation, the Act is flexible enough to deal with spam sent via a range of technologies.”
Submissions would be received until 1 February 2006 and the issue paper could be viewed at www.dcita.gov.au/spam.
20 December, 2005
ASIC Informs Market about Insolvency
ASIC has released a series of information sheets to increase awareness among company directors, employees, creditors and shareholders of company insolvency procedures.
ASIC Commissioner, Professor Berna Collier, said the information sheets were designed to provide people who may be affected by a company's insolvency with a basic understanding of the three most common insolvency procedures – liquidation, voluntary administration, and receivership. She said the package also included a glossary of commonly used insolvency terms.
“Insolvency is a complex area and many people affected by the failure of a company have had no previous experience of the process and little knowledge of their rights,’’' Professor Collier said. “An understanding of what is happening should make the process less daunting.”
She said insolvency had become an increased priority for ASIC as it focused on reducing insolvent trading and encouraging directors and officers of financially troubled companies to act quickly and in the interests of creditors.
“This package supports this focus and is another important step towards ensuring the wider business community are well informed regarding insolvency laws and processes and aware of their rights and responsibilities.’’ Professor Collier said.
The information package had been endorsed by Australia's peak body for insolvency practitioners, the Insolvency Practitioners Association of Australia (IPAA), and a co-badged
ASIC/IPAA list of the sheets has been issued to insolvency professionals.
20 December, 2005
$3 Million for Community Projects from Australia Council
Forty-nine community-based arts projects and programs are to share more than $3 million being made available from the Australia Council for the Arts.
Chair of the committee that assessed the projects, Tim O’Loughlin said the funding would be for a diverse range of community arts activities - collaborations with professional artists -- among regional, disability, multicultural and youth communities across Australia.
The grants program followed recent review of grant applications by the Australia Council's newly formed Community Cultural Development (CCD) Assessment Committee.
Mr O’Loughlin said the review highlighted the breadth of community activity being undertaken across the country, and “demonstrated an active, vibrant and diverse range of artists, communities and organizations.”
“The committee was particularly impressed with the originality and diversity of the proposed activities which included a range of collaborative projects,' Mr O'Loughlin said.
Some of the projects to receive Australia Council funding are:
- InCite Youth Arts in the Northern Territory which will conduct a mentoring program engaging professional community artists to work with Indigenous youth in remote locations.
- Kickstart Arts in Tasmania will deliver five community-based cultural projects with regional communities, targeting at-risk and refugee youth through creative workshops and mentoring programs.
- Tutti Ensemble is to produce a documentary film Northern Lights, a unique collaboration between an Australian disability arts company and a partner disability organisation overseas;
- Lao Community Advancement will conduct an anthology of Lao writing, exploring the diversity of experiences and stories across generations, gender, ethnic and religious groups.
The Australia Council’s Community Cultural Development Grants Program is open to individuals, groups and organizations and will be run again in 2006. Details on how to apply are in the 2006 Australia Council Support for the Arts Handbook, available from cp@ozco.gov.au or by calling call 1800 226 12 or (02) 9215 9116.
20 December, 2005
Audit Office Finds Holes in Customs Net
An audit of the Customs’ Compliance Assurance Strategy by the Australian National Audit Office has uncovered gaps which could have made it easier for illegal goods to enter Australia.
According to the auditor, the largely self-regulated system relied on importers to declare what they brought into the country but a lack of systematic analysis of risks and emerging trends.left the process exposed to inaccuracy.
Customs welcomed the ANAO report and agreed with all the recommendations.
According to the auditor the Compliance Assurance Strategy was designed to provide assurance that industry and the international trading community were complying with legislative requirements.
Specifically, the strategy’s aims were to provide the Government and the community with
confidence that:
* reporting of all cargo and vessels entering or leaving Australia was accurate and timely;
* licence and permit requirements, prohibitions and restrictions in relation to imported and exported goods were complied with;
* the correct amount of revenue was paid or identified for collection;
* community protection programs related to imported and exported goods were
effectively implemented; and
* accurate and reliable data on trade statistics was provided to Customs.
The auditor found that Customs’ ability to target non-compliance was undermined by its lack of analysis as well as inadequate feedback mechanisms and information sharing.
The audit also highlighted significant data capture and data integrity problems with accurate and reliable data not readily available, or being used, to evaluate the effectiveness of CCAS compliance activities.
The auditor recognised that Australia’s international trading environment was complex, involved multiple industry participants and was largely self-regulated but he noted that most of the compliance activities were undertaken in a post-transaction context.
In 2004-2005 Australia imported more than 7.3 million cargo consignments valued at approximately $149,520 million. In 2005-2006 imports were expected to grow by about 8 per cent.
The report said Customs had a role to prevent illegal and harmful goods from entering Australia while at the same time balancing the need to ensure that legitimate movement of goods was not necessarily impeded.
Prohibited and restricted items included illicit drugs, weapons,
pornography, unsafe products, therapeutic goods, wildlife, quarantine items and items that breached intellectual property rights.
In its response, Customs attributed many of the shortcomings to a reduction in resources but said additional resources received for compliance activity in the 2005-2006 Budget would enable them to address many of the issues.
16 December, 2005
Welfare to Work Scheme
a Windfall for Media
The public advertising campaign promoting the recently passed “Welfare to Work” program is to cost more than $6 million for two months according to the national media journal B&T.
Planned to launch in May next year, the commitment to advertising is $150,000 a day, which includes “branding” and the possibility of a better title than “Welfare to Work.”
Six advertising agencies – three from Melbourne and three from Sydney – have been invited to pitch for the business by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.
B&T reports that research into the title “Welfare to Work” showed it was not well received by target audiences, particularly income support recipients and those on disability pensions, parenting payments, Newstart including the very long term unemployed.
The $3.6 billion program is to be implemented from July 2006 after being passed by the Senate this month. It is aimed at reducing welfare dependency and getting recipients into the workforce.
The cost of advertising the program for 2005/06 will be $5.7 million with a further $700,000 to be spent immediately after it is introduced on July 1, 2006. The pre-implementation advertising will start on May 21.
The Department’s brief to the advertising agencies calls for a campaign with a “tone and style” of communication messages that needs to be positive and optimistic, while recognising the significant challenges for both income support recipients and employers.
The Department wants income support recipients to have a more positive attitude about their ability to get a job and that getting a job can be a “foot in the door”.
The campaign will also target employers, encouraging them to hire people from the target
16 December, 2005
Statistics Data Free for All
to Mark 100th Birthday
Researchers, students and the casually curious have hit the jackpot at the Bureau of Statistics as charges for website data are lifted.
From 12 December 2005, all statistics on the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) website have been available for free.
Treasurer Peter Costello announced the move to mark the centenary of the ABS saying the government recognised the importance of access to official statistics in providing a reliable and up-to-date view of Australian society, the economy and the environment.
“Statistics are so vital to our national life, and have made such a key contribution to nation-building, that they lend themselves easily to structural analogies,” Mr Costello said. “They are the cornerstone of our decision-making, the very building-blocks of research, planning and discussion within governments and the community and are one of the important pillars of our democracy.
“Ready access to those statistics for those that need them is of paramount importance,” he said.
The change means that all statistics, tables, spreadsheets and census data are now available free to anyone simply by visiting www.abs.gov.au.
ABS statistics show that internet access by Australian households had increased from 16 per cent of all households in 18 to 53 per cent in 2003 - or nearly four million households. The access rate by all businesses in 2004 was 74 per cent - more than 500,000 businesses.
Those who prefer their statistics in hard copy can continue to buy printed publications through the ABS website.
16 December, 2005
Aussies and Indons on
Same
Side in War Games
Australian and Indonesian Special Forces will combine next year for a two-week counter-terrorism exercise called Dawn Kookaburra.
Defence Minister Robert Hill said the exercise would take place in Perth and would be a combined counter-hijack and hostage recovery exercise.
Australia’s Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) and Indonesia's Armed Forces (TNI) specialist counter-terrorism unit, Kopassus Unit 81, would take part, Senator Hill said.
“In this era of heightened terrorist threats, it is in Australia’s interests to engage with regional special forces, such as Kopassus, to safeguard the lives of Australians and Australian interests abroad,” Senator Hill said.
“The bombings in Bali in October 2005 further highlighted the need for regional countries to work together in combating this common threat.”
Senator Hill said that if a terrorist incident occurred, Australian safety could rest on effective cooperation between TNI and the ADF.
“Kopassus Unit 81 has the most effective capability to respond to a counter-hijack or hostage recovery threat in Indonesia,” he said.
The exercise is planned to hone counter-hijack and hostage recovery skills and includes training and exercise scenarios.
It forms part of Australia’s counter-terrorism strategy, which aims to develop training and exercise opportunities with Indonesia’s counter-terrorism forces. The last similar training exercise took place in 17.
Other activities include senior and working level visits, subject matter exchanges, sharing information and attendance at conferences.
16 December, 2005
ABC TV Looking Good for 2006
ABC Managing Director Russell Balding has announced a dynamic array of initiatives for ABC TV in 2006 - everything from new dramas, multi-platform programming for the youth market, to new arts ventures and an irresistible new sports quiz.
“In 2006 we will celebrate 50 years of ABC TV, so I am very pleased that our 2006 season is in keeping with the proud traditions of ABC TV. It is emphatically Australian, and an ambitious, distinctive slate of new drama, factual, arts and youth programming. ABC TV will be a must watch in 2006,” Mr Balding said.
Two new local dramas will go into production in 2006.
Bastard Boys is a four-part series about the bitter 18 waterfront dispute. Sue Smith, whose other series include Brides of Christ and The Leaving of Liverpool, has written the series. Before Dawn is the intimate story of Prime Minister John Curtin’s first six months in power in 1941.
One of the more interesting initiatives is jtv, the ABC’s first multi-platform projects that will incorporate television, radio and new media. Directed at a younger audience there will be extensive interactive components.
As well, the ABC will join forces with Film Australia to produce 10 hours of Australian history in a $7.5 million History Initiative project to be produced over three years.
Star Portraits will see Rolf Harris return to Australia to interview four much-loved Australian personalities who have contributed to the ABC’s 50 years. Each will have their portrait painted by three artists, while being interviewed by Harris. They will then discuss which portrait they wish to take home. This concept is based on a very successful BBC series.
Another major art project is Painting Australia. Part art competition, part art class and part art tour, host Sorrel Wilby, of Getaway fame, will take three competing artists to somewhere in Australia to produce a landscape.
For the sporting minded, Head to Head is searching for Australia’s greatest sports trivia mind. Running for 42 weeks, the winner of each program returns to take on a new challenger each week. The eventual winner will receive a trip for two to a major world sporting event.
Growing Up in Australia will see 10,000 Australian children placed under a sociological microscope for the first seven years of their life. Teams of experts and scientists will seek to discover what makes a happy, healthy child. What gives one child an advantage over another?
And, as the icing on the cake of the ABC’s birthday celebrations, fans of the multi-award winning series The West Wing, formerly seen on the Nine Network, will be pleased to know that the series has found a new home on the ABC, from early in 2006.
DIMIA Gets 43 New Starters in Senior Staff Shake-Up
Forty-three new senior executives have started work in the revamped Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs.
The group were introduced to their work through an intensive, three day conference led by Secretary Andrew Metcalfe and his three Deputy Secretaries.
Mr Metcalfe said new and existing managers were now well-positioned to implement a raft of changes recommended by the hard-hitting Palmer Report.
“It has positioned the Department in the right direction heading into the New Year,” Mr Metcalfe said.
More than 60 Palmer Report projects, involving funding of $231 million over five years, have already commenced, he said
“Many of the areas of the Department under considerable pressure are also those that carry significant risk.We are placing these areas on a more stable footing.
“The new structure provides organisational relief to these areas by breaking them into smaller units and providing a greater level of managerial support and accountability.”
He said it also supported a much greater focus on well-trained staff across the Department; better systems and improved records and case management.
16 December, 2005
Islands Get Help for Census Countdown
Seven Pacific Island nations will take part in a census in 2010, aided by funds and expertise from Australia.
There are believed to be around 8.5 million Pacific Islanders living in Kiribati, Tonga, Niue, Fiji, Cook Islands, Samoa and Tokelau, but without accurate national population and housing data, planning for the future can be a nightmare.
Australia’s Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Bruce Billson, announced an aid package of expertise and $1 million over three years at the Seventh Parliamentary Forum in Suva, Fiji.
“Census details can make a real difference to improving people's lives,’’ Mr Billson said. “It greatly assists national and regional policy makers plan for a better future with a major stocktake of current development.”
He said that although some Pacific countries have the capacity to conduct a census, smaller countries could struggle to produce reliable statistics.
“Important development progress is being made in the Pacific, including longer life expectancy, yet there are still many vulnerable fragile states that need quality data to tackle challenges,” he said.
The project will be supported by the Australian Government’s overseas aid agency, AusAID and the Australian Bureau of Statistics. It will be managed by the Secretariat of the Pacific Community.
The Pacific Parliamentary Forum was organised by the Centre for Democratic Institutions at the Australian National University in Canberra. It provides an opportunity for elected public officials to discuss public leadership issues.
Australia’s aid budget is nearly $2.5 billion this financial year. About $460 million – or almost one fifth – goes to development activities in the Pacific.
16 December, 2005
Government Taking a Look at Identity Issue
The Australian Government is looking at ways in which it can verify the identities of people when they interact with the government electronically.
Announcing the extension of the Australian Government e-Authentication Framework, Special Minister of State, Senator Eric Abetz, called on people with ideas to provide the Government with their views on how it should secure online communications with individuals.
“The Government is undertaking a consultation process on the Australian Government e-Authentication Framework for Individuals. The focus is on how government agencies verify the identity of people when they interact with government electronically,” the Minister said.
He said said that the AGAF(I) was an extension of the successful AGAF for Business, launched in March 2005, which was a whole-of-government approach to authentication for online transactions between government and the broader community, and was aimed at providing appropriate online levels of security while minimising cost to both parties.
At this year’s Online and Communications Council meeting, the Council agreed to adopt the AGAF to align national, state and territory electronic authentication policies.
The Minister said that in June this year the Australian Government released a report about Australians’ use of and satisfaction with e-Government services. That report revealed that individuals wanted to interact with government online and that, increasingly, they were doing so.
“Authentication is a fundamental building block towards a greater level of dialogue between government and citizens online,’’ Senator Abetz said.
“It will create a secure environment, where the identity of individuals can be verified quickly and safely, and important government transactions can take place online.”
The Australian Government Information Management Office is seeking comments on the development of the AGAF(I). Anyone can provide their thoughts on the discussion paper and comment more generally on authentication options.
“Put simply, what this means is improved service delivery for Australians,” Senator r Abetz said.
More information about the consultation process for AGAF(I), including the discussion paper, is available online at www.australia.gov.au.
16 December, 2005
Finance Advice Booklet Right on the Money
Understanding the complexities of personal finance has just been made easier with the release of a new booklet by the Australian Securities and Investment Commission and the Financial Planning Association of Australia.
Getting Advice: A practical guide to personal financial advice.helps people start off on the right foot with tips on finding the right adviser and getting advice that suits there circumstances.
“This guide will help people be better informed and more confident in choosing and working with financial advisers. It's an example of how ASIC and an industry body can work together to deliver better outcomes for Australian consumers,” said ASIC chairman, Jeffrey Lucy.
“Australians increasingly depend on personal financial advice to make decisions, especially at key financial turning points in their lives, such as planning for retirement.
“Finance can be complex. ASIC and the financial planning industry want consumers to understand their rights and know when to seek more information before making important financial decisions. This includes, where appropriate, the selection of a licensed financial adviser.
“Getting Advice offers independent and accurate information about financial advice and explains to consumers how to ensure it's as beneficial as possible.”
Kerrie Kelly, the FPA's chief executive officer, said: “Finding a professional financial planner who suits your needs will help you feel more in control of your finances and more confident about achieving your financial goals. Armed with the right questions and knowing what to expect, people will be better able to experience the benefits which come from good financial advice.”
Key tips contained in Getting advice include:
* Deal only with a licensed financial adviser. That way, you have more protection if anything goes wrong.
* Take the time to find the best person for your needs. Look for an adviser who is qualified and experienced in giving the advice you need and with whom you feel comfortable.
* Make sure the advice suits you and offers value for money. Good advice will be clear, concise and effective.
Getting advice offers special tips on how to understand advice fees and financial product costs.
“We're also working with the financial services industry on a number of other matters, for example making sure statements of advice are fit for their purpose and more meaningful to consumers,” Mr Lucy added.
Free copies of the booklet are available online through ASIC's consumer website FIDO.
16 December, 2005
Trademarks Overhaul Leads to Tighter Rules
Trade mark and patents agency IP Australia will review its scale of costs in 2006, following recommendations in a sweeping review in 2004 of trade mark enforcement by the Advisory Council on Intellectual Property (ACIP).
Parliamentary Secretary for Industry, Tourism and Resources, Warren Entsch, said the government had accepted nine of ACIP's 12 recommendations for greater clarity of trade mark rights and greater certainty in enforcement and protection.
Mr Entsch said six of the recommendations were being implemented progressively by IP Australia, while alternative measures were being looked at for the three recommendations that had not been accepted.
The three issues in dispute include recommendations that:
* IP Australia revert to its pre-July 200 cross class search list, with some amendments;
* The Registrar of Trade Marks carry out a classification check as soon as possible after the application is filed to ensure the applicant has nominated the correct classes
* Mandatory disclaimers for non-distinctive elements of trade marks, without retrospective effect.
Mr Entsch said these three issues had broad implications for Government policy for enforcement of intellectual property rights and he had consulted with the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice.
“The Government is committed to effective laws on intellectual property,” Mr Entsch said. “Without clear trademark rights and processes, there would be little incentive for industry to develop and market quality goods and services. It would also be difficult for consumers to make informed choices with any confidence about the origin of goods and services.”
Mr Entsch said he was progressing measures to strengthen the effective use of intellectual property rights in Australia, including amendments to the Trade Mark Act 15 to clarify uncertainties.
16 December, 2005
Heavy Hitters to Launch New Trade Book
Austrade’s Chief Economist Tim Harcourt will be joined by three prominent Australian women when he launches his book on international trade in Sydney on 19 December.
“Beyond Our Shores” aims to make sense of the complexities of international trade, through a collection of essays by Harcourt on Australia and the global economy.
Australian Sex Discrimination Commisioner, Pru Goward, model Kate Fischer and public relations practitioner Penny Fischer will be at the event to help their former family babysitter launch his literary child.
Mr Harcourt said the book covers topics such as women in export - a growing sector in Australia.
“Pru Goward has been a strong supporter, getting involved in community awareness campaigns to highlight the value of exports to women in business and encourage them to take up opportunities to export their goods and services,” Mr Harcourt said.
The book also looks at globalisation, advances in technologies and difficult times in international trade caused by events such as terrorism and SARS. It covers the rise of China and India in Asia, the enlargement of the European Union, stronger integration in the Americas, and the emergence trade ties with several developing economies.
“For those who like big occasions, there’s also a chapter on special events, such as the Olympic Games, the Rugby World Cup 2003 and the Oscars,” Mr Harcourt said.
16 December, 2005
Security Warning as Internet Users Flourish
A report has found that for many of the 10 million Australians who use the Internet for transactions, convenience far outweighs any security concerns.
Trust and growth in the online environment details findings of a survey of the perceptions, experiences and security practices of Australians who transact online. The report recognised the convenience factor but stressed that some people should do more to improve their online security.
“While an increasing number of people recognise the benefits of the online environment, this research shows that Australians should become more aware of the need for safe and secure online practices,” said the Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, Senator Helen Coonan.
The report also highlights that the issue of trust in online activities shapes how people and organisations use and respond to the online environment on the one hand, and how businesses and governments seek to engender trust on the other.
“The Government wants to build trust and consumer confidence in online information and services. A lack of trust would be a major impediment to the development of the online environment and subsequent productivity and social benefits,” Senator Coonan said.
“The Government recognises the critical role of building trust and has been active in the area of consumer protection in the online environment.
“The Government’s Strategic Framework for the Information Economy, identified trust and security as major issues. We have undertaken a range of activities including the introduction of anti-spam legislation, increased research into e-security, and collaborative efforts between Government agencies to address online security.”
She said the Government was also working to raise community awareness and had released a number of information papers on e-security issues such as phishing, spyware and strategies for business and consumers to ensure their online protection.
The Government recently launched the Australian Internet Security Initiative, which provides Internet service providers with data to identify computers that have been compromised or zombied.
“The report will make a significant contribution to raising awareness of online trust issues amongst providers and users of online services, in addition to contributing to research in this area,” Senator Coonan said.
More information and the report are available online at www.dcita.gov.au/ie/benchmarking/trustandgrowth
16 December, 2005
Coastal Security No Longer Borderline
The Federal Government is to spend $1 billion over 12 years to boost the protection of Australia’s borders.
Minister for Justice and Customs, Senator Chris Ellison said the new Customs Coastwatch civil maritime surveillance contract, with Surveillance Australia Pty Ltd, would double the current aircraft fleet.
“The aircraft fleet forms a vital part of Customs efforts to detect and deter illegal activity such as drug and people smuggling, illegal fishing and environmental offences around Australia, particularly across our northern coastline,” Senator Ellison said.
“Along with support from the Coastwatch Torres Strait helicopter service, regular patrols by Customs and Navy patrol boats and the trial of a High Frequency Surface Wave Radar system, the aircraft fleet will help to ensure that our northern sea borders are closely monitored and protected.
“The new service will comprise an all-Dash 8 aircraft fleet, doubling the fleet of these highly capable longer-range fully electronic surveillance aircraft available under the existing contract from five to 10.
“The contract will also allow Coastwatch to increase its use in the future of sophisticated surveillance technology, including satellite imagery and unmanned aerial vehicles.”
The new 12-year contract commences January 2008, pending successful contract negotiations with Surveillance Australia, based in Adelaide.
The contract would ensure continuity of strong border protection arrangements and utilise the sound understanding already in place by Surveillance Australia of Coastwatch requirements.
“The selection process carried out by Customs Coastwatch has been comprehensive and rigorous and has included extensive consultation with industry and thorough probity assessments,” Senator Ellison said.
“This new contract will strongly complement other maritime surveillance initiatives by the Howard Government such as the Joint Offshore Protection Command, which will combine the resources and expertise of Customs and Defence to create a single joint maritime surveillance, response and interdiction system and deliver an over-arching military capability for offshore maritime protection.
The Minister said the Government’s proposal “contrasted vividly” with that of the Labor Opposition which continued to push a Coastguard idea despite not knowing whether it supported a Coastguard costing $895 million or $300 million.
“While the Government is committed to funding a comprehensive suite of assets and skilled personnel to protect our borders, Labor’s only commitment is to rob our frontline of highly trained officers and send them to desks in Canberra.”
16 December, 2005
New Strategy To Attract Tourists to the Outback
Outback tourism is the focus for a new push to attract the tourist dollar, bringing together businesses and communities for an innovative strategy entitled Our Outback – Partnerships and Pathways to Success in Tourism.
Managed by Desert Knowledge Australia, a national organisation working towards an economical and socially sustainable future for people living in the outback, the project was based on a network of businesses and individuals in locations across regional and remote Australia.
The Minister for Small Business and Tourism, Fran Bailey, said it was all part of a Linked Business Networks Project.
“This project, which has built on the strong participation of state/territory and regional tourism organisations and other stakeholders, concentrates on bringing together networks of people and organisations to find solutions to problems, and initiates proposals for the benefit of the communities in each region,” Ms Bailey said.
“In the past each state and the Northern Territory has been marketing and developing their own part of the outback with only a limited number of examples of a coordinated approach to solving cross-border issues,” she said.
The report looks at ways to coordinate visitor information centres, review websites, staff training, linking major attractions, cooperative marketing, developing tourist and heritage trails and indigenous and heritage tourism opportunities.
16 December, 2005
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12 December, 2005
Recent Appointments:
Ozdowski Leaves as Human Rights Commissioner
The contribution of Sev Ozdowski to protecting the human rights of all Australians
has been recognised by Attorney-General Philip Ruddock who said Dr Ozdowski had played a valuable role.
Dr Ozdowski has left the position of Human Rights Commissioner and Acting Disability Discrimination Commissioner when his contract ran out recently.
“I would like to thank Dr Ozdowski for his commitment to promoting human rights in Australia since his appointment to these positions in December 2000,” Mr Ruddock said.
“Dr Ozdowski has played a valuable role in raising awareness and educating the community about the human rights of children, young people and people with a disability.”
The Minister has yet to announce a replacement for Dr Ozdowski, saying only that an appointment was under consideration
ACT Heritage Council
Michael Pearson has been appointed Chair of the ACT Heritage Council for three years.
After a period as a member of the Council Dr Pearson has been promoted to Chair, an appointment ACT Chief Minister Jon Stanhope said was in recognition of an already valuable contribution.
Dr Pearson’s company, Heritage Management Consultants, has been involved in a number of major heritage projects in including conservation management plans for the High Court of Australia, the National Gallery of Australia and Old Parliament House.
Mr Stanhope said his research had resulted in more than 70 publications including articles, chapters and books, on aspects of heritage conservation and management, whaling and archaeology.
Dr Pearson has an Honours Degree in Ancient History and a PhD in Prehistoric and Historical Archaeology. He was a Visiting Fellow at the Centre for Prehistory at the University of Western Australia and is Adjunct Professor, Cultural Heritage Management, at the University of Canberra.
He succeeds former chair, Mr Peter Freeman.
The ACT Heritage Council provides expert advice to the Chief Minister and other Territory Authorities on the identification and conservation of heritage places and objects in the ACT.
12 December, 2005
AQIS Risks All for Comcover Award
The Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) has won a prestigious 2005 Comcover award for innovative risk management for the second year in a row.
A strong field of 22 public service agencies contested 10 awards at a ceremony at the National Museum of Australia in Canberra.
Judges looked at the extent to which an agency had developed a strategic approach to risk management and a framework to be implemented across the organisation. They also assessed how agencies were promoting a risk management culture throughout the organisation.
AQIS took out the ……
AQIS Executive Director Peter Yuile said the award was a great tribute to the work by the Northern Australia Quarantine Strategy (NAQS).
“NAQS plays a vital role in minimising the risk of exotic animal and plant pests and diseases that could enter Australia from countries to the north,” Mr Yuile said.
“In our remote north the terrain is often rough, communication difficult and the climate harsh. The nature of the work is also hazardous—particularly surveying for exotic diseases such as avian influenza and rabies.
“Through risk management principles NAQS has developed a unique program involving cooperative ventures with remote area communities in Northern Australia and the Torres Strait and neighbouring countries,” Mr Yuile said.
All Australian government agencies that were members of the Comcover Fund are eligible to enter the annual competition. Winners get a five per cent discount on the next year’s insurance premium.
Mr Yuile said the award would save AQIS thousands of dollars in reduced premiums.
12 December, 2005
Baton a “Snow Show” on Way to The Games
The Commonwealth Games Queen's Relay Baton has made a slight detour to Antarctica, boarding the research vessel Aurora Australis in Hobart on December 3 and expected to arrive at the Casey station on December 16.
Australia's Governor-General, Major General Michael Jeffery farewelled the Baton, saying Antarctica must be the most remarkable place of all Commonwealth countries for the baton to visit.
Minister for the Environment and Heritage, Senator Ian Campbell said getting the baton to the frozen continent “was a major coup”.
He said it would be an important way to promote Australia's Antarctic Program.
“The Baton contains the latest digital, video and other communications technology that can transmit images of its location direct to the Commonwealth Games Melbourne 2006 website,” Senator Campbell said.
As well as the Baton, the Aurora Australis was also carrying scientists who will spend the summer on a range of research projects as well as expeditioners who will spend the next year at Casey station.
In farewelling the baton, Major-General Jeffery spoke of the work of Sir Douglas Mawson, Australia’s foremost pioneer in the region.
“This graduate of engineering and science was a man of immense courage and determination. And his exploits and travails are the stuff of legend,” Major-General Jeffery said.
“In 1907 he was a member of the expedition headed by the great British explorer Ernest Shackleton that was the first to reach the magnetic South Pole.
“In 1930, as Sir Douglas Mawson he headed home as leader of the British, Australian and New Zealand Antarctic expedition which had charted 1,600 kilometres of previously unknown Antarctic coast and recharted more than 2,400 kilometres of vaguely known coastlines. In the same year, half a world away in Hamilton, Canada, the first Commonwealth Games (then the British Empire Games) were staged.
“Australia was rated sixth of the 10 nations that competed, winning three gold, four silver and one bronze medal in athletics, boxing, rowing and swimming. As an aside, there were just nine sports open for competition in the 1930 games.
The Governor General said that since those Games Australia had conclusively proven itself on the sporting field.
“Indeed our country has demonstrated its great capacity for innovation and endurance across a very wide range of human endeavours.”
He said he could think of no finer group of outstanding Australians to see the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton on its way to Antarctica than the scientific expedition that was also aboard Aurora Australis.
When it returns from Antarctica - the 67th country it has visited - the Baton will head to warmer climes of Fiji.
The Commonwealth Games will be held in Melbourne from March 15 to March 26, 2006.
12 December, 2005
Susan is the Pride of the Government Solicitor
Susan Pryde of the Australian Government Solicitor’s Melbourne Office has been named the Australian Corporate Lawyers’ Association ‘Government Lawyer of the Year’.
It is the second time in three years that an AGS lawyer has been honoured with the title.
Ms Pryde is the AGS’s Senior Executive Lawyer in charge of the trade practices team.
In selecting her for the award, the selection committee commented on Ms Pryde’s leadership skills and her loyalty and commitment to protecting the legitimate interests of Government.
Ms Pryde is a highly experienced litigation lawyer, having acted for the ACCC in many major matters, for CSL Limited in a claim for damages and the Bureau of Meteorology following the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race in 18.
She recently acted as Director of AGS’s Adelaide office and holds a practitioner’s certificate in mediation and conciliation.
Ms Pryde said the diversity and variety of matters that arise in the AGS’s office are great benefits.
“Each matter brings with it new challenges, new people and new issues,’’ Ms Pryde said.
“My litigation team at AGS works as a tightly knit unit and it is a real plus to have such talented and dedicated colleagues. It’s a delight to see junior lawyers come through the team structure and be able to mentor them and follow their career development”.
Ms Pryde’s nomination cited a great capacity to win the respect and confidence of government clients in a short time.
The Government Lawyer of the Year Award was established three years ago, the inaugural winner being Simon Daley, Special Counsel Litigation and National Practice Leader of AGS’s litigation practice.
12 December, 2005
High Flyer Wins University Medal and Prizes
Air Force Officer Cadet at the Australian Defence Force Academy, Matthew Brown has been awarded the University of New South Wales medal for his first class honours degree in Aeronautical Engineering.
Officer Cadet Brown was also awarded ADFA’s AH Corbett Prize for the most outstanding graduate in Engineering and the Air Vice-Marshal Noble prize for distinguished performance in 4th Year Aeronautical Engineering.
Not surprisingly, Cadet Brown’s achievements have drawn critical acclaim.
Professor John Baird, Rector of UNSW at ADFA said Cadet Brown was an outstanding student.
“Across his entire four years here at the Academy, Matthew has consistently received high distinction grades,’’ Professor Brown said.
“He has worked extremely hard and all his effort has finally paid off.”
“You don’t often get such a consistent and highly talented student.”
Officer cadet Brown, 21, is from Forresters Beach on the NSW central coast. He joined the Air Force in 2002 and during his time at ADFA was awarded an academic and military commendation for every semester.
He has a very high level of fitness and has consistently been among the top performers during physical training
He has represented his squadron in athletics and swimming, cross country and aquathon events and has been involved with football and martial arts clubs.
12 December, 2005
ABC Gains Ground in Ratings Race
ABC Radio increased its audience in the past year despite considerable pressure from a myriad of new stations.
Radio ratings figures from Nielsen Media Research reveal the national broadcaster enjoyed an exceptional year, recording strong audience results across its local radio networks for 2005.
ABC Managing Director Russell Balding said the ratings result reflects the power of the ABC to expand its audiences.
“ABC Local Radio is often the heart of local news and information for communities throughout the nation,” Mr Balding said. “Local radio teams across Australia have worked together to strengthen the ABC's position as a comprehensive broadcaster and listeners have responded by continuing to come to the ABC in strong numbers.”
The survey showed ABC Local Radio attracted an audience of 2.2 million in 2005, increasing in numbers in every city except Brisbane, where listenership remained steady.
In Sydney, Local Radio attracted 9.1 per cent of the audience, the highest resulting more than 25 years.
In Perth, Local Radio won a share of 12.1 per cent, the highest in 20 years, while Adelaide local radio achieved 11.5 per cent, the highest on record.
ABC Radio audiences remained steady in 2005 in the face of growing competition - the five-city 2005 annual share of 20.3% remaining steady with the 2004 result (20.5 per cent), while maintaining reach at 3.7 million listeners a week (3.75 million in 2004).
12 December, 2005
Jungle Bells as Centrelinks Gets in Festive Spirit
Centrelink jingled to the sounds of wild jungle animals and sleigh bells when Santa Claus toured its Redfern office recently.
Santa joined forces with Redfern Centrelink, City of Sydney Council and Redfern Community Centre for a special Christmas celebration for children at “The Block” in Redfern. Mark Spinks from Redfern Centrelink organised the event, also taking on the role of Santa.
Christmas for the Kids provided entertainment for about 500 children, highlights including Taronga Park Zoo's portable zoo, clowns, fairy floss, face painting, live entertainment and presents from Santa.
Mr Spinks said it was especially satisfying for an organisation like Centrelink to be give something back to the community, particularly those less fortunate.
“It's what Christmas is all about – giant smiles on little faces,” he said.
12 December, 2005
Record-Breaking Registry to Centralise Film and Sound Holdings
Rare films and priceless records are to be listed in a central location as the National Film and Sound Archive launches its new National Registry of Moving Image and Recorded Sound Collections.
Collating the holdings of film and sound collections held around Australia, the new catalogue would be a first for the nation according to the Director of the NFSA, Paolo Cherchi Usai.
“We believe the registry will prove to be an invaluable reference resource,’’ Cherchi Usai said. “It aims to locate and record all holdings of moving image and recorded sound materials of cultural interest.’’
He said information for the registry would be gathered on a State-by-State or territory basis, starting with the ACT. More than 250 institutions and individuals in the ACT will be asked to provide details about collections they may hold and want to see included in the registry.
He said on the list were archives, libraries, Government agencies, distribution and production companies, media, educational institutions, research centres, historical societies, film societies, fan clubs, corporations, government bodies, commercial holdings such as stock shot libraries, private collectors, arts centres, sports clubs, local councils and many more.
“Our plan is to first publish the registry as a printed catalogue, with options for electronic publishing also being considered in the longer term,” he said. “If the ACT pilot is as successful as we expect, it will be rolled out nationally in stages throughout 2006, with the aim of going to press in late 2007.”
12 December, 2005
$14 Million Boost for Emergency Management
Emergency services volunteers and the communities they serve have received $14 million for 400 projects around Australia.
The grants are designed to develop self-reliance at both community and local government levels and form part of the Government’s Working Together to Manage Emergencies initiative. They are administered by Emergency Management Australia.
Attorney-General Phillip Ruddock estimated some 500,000 people in Australia volunteered their services in some emergency management capacity, with 350,000 of those involved in first response through rural fire services and State Emergency Services.
“In the event of emergencies and disasters, including a terrorist attack, our emergency services volunteer pool plays a significant role in assisting the community to respond to and recover,” Mr Ruddock said. “This new funding initiative is about supporting local governments and volunteer organisations at the frontline of emergency management.”
The range of grants included $16 million over four years to the National Emergency Volunteer Support Fund to boost recruitment, retention and training of volunteer organizations and $30 million to local councils over four years to develop and implement community emergency risk management, upgrade security around critical infrastructure and train staff.
12 December, 2005
New Guidelines Teach Companies Company Law
New compliance guidelines issued by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission will help medium to large companies learn the essential elements of obeying the law.
ACCC Chairman Graeme Samuel has issued the first of several corporate trade practices compliance guidelines being developed by the Commission. A complementary ACCC publication focusing on the requirements of small and micro business will be issued early next year
“Compliance programs provide a preventative mechanism enabling companies to identify and reduce the risk of subsequent trade practices breaches,” Mr Samuel said.
“The consequences of failing to adequately manage trade practices risks have long been recognised. Companies face significant penalties, injunctions and a variety of ancillary and remedial orders if they break the law. They may also have to contend with significant distractions to business management and damage to their brand.
Mr Samuel said that proposed changes to the law including the introduction of criminal sanctions for breaches of the anti-competitive conduct section of the Trade Practices Act and higher fines meant companies must face the need to make lasting changes to their corporate culture.
“The ACCC sees the introduction of a compliance program as a way of minimising the risk of a future compliance failure,” Mr Samuel said.
He said the guideline was developed in consultation with the compliance industry and was available at no cost.
It could be ordered through the ACCC Infocentre on 1300 302 502 or obtained from the Commission’s website www.accc.gov.au.
12 December, 2005
Excess Leave Under Fire as
Inaccurate leave records and excess leave credits are costing the Federal Government millions according to the first ever official audit of leave management and processing in the APS.
Auditor-General Ian McPhee has called for agencies to tighten up their management of leave and take steps to cut down excessive carry-overs.
In a survey of six large agencies, the Auditor found five failed his audit test with costs to the Government rising 18 to 20 per cent over the last three years.
In his report The Management and Processing of Leave the Auditor said the value of annual leave and long service leave entitlements across all Australian Government agencies was nearly $6 billion but the actual costs could be higher because proper management was lacking.
“There was a potential for leave to be taken but not recorded, resulting in extra entitlements being available to staff, to which they are not legally entitled,’’ Mr McPhee said.
He said leave liabilities across the audited agencies had all increased in the past three years with agencies failing to honour the leave arrangements included in their Certified Agreements.
He said the increased leave liabilities had two main implications for agencies.
“Firstly there is a direct cost that crystallizes when an employee leaves the public service and receives payment of their outstanding leave.’’
“Secondly, if employees are not encouraged to take leave and work uninterrupted for long periods, the productivity of staff may be adversely impaired.’’
He said agencies with tight budgets could face cashflow difficulties if they were required to pay out leave entitlements.
He said some agencies failed to include the risks associated with managing and processing leave in their operational risk management or fraud control plans and sometimes didn’t evaluate the risk prior to introducing Employee Self-Service (ESS) systems.
He said agencies should become more proactive in the management of leave for staff with high leave balances; should do more to manage unactioned leave applications in their ESS systems; should articulate better the responsibilities of particular work areas in managing leave; and should improve the reporting and monitoring of leave information for senior management.
In a range of recommendations, Mr McPhee urged agencies stick to the arrangements in their CAs for managing leave; to undertake formal risk assessment processes for their leave management practices; to monitor excess balances carefully and take action to bring them under control; and to remind staff, especially senior management, of their obligation to record their attendance.
He also recommended agencies consider, when next negotiating a Certified Agreement, whether their existing attendance recording procedures, particularly for senior staff, are appropriate.
The agencies audited for the report were the Department of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, the Department of Family and Community Services, the Australian Federal Police, Australian Protective Service, the Australian Sports Commission and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.
The full report can be viewed at the Auditor-General’s website www.anao.gov.au.
12 December, 2005
UV Warnings to Make Summer Safer
The Australian Bureau of Meteorology is to issue “UV Alerts” in a bid to stem the spread of skin cancer.
Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world with more than 1300 people dying from the condition each year. About one in every two Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime.
To help combat this crisis BOM has agreed to issue an alert when the UV Index hits 3 and the time of day to seek protection from the sun.
The move has been welcomed by the Cancer Council of Australia which says while skin cancer awareness has improved, the BOM alerts will make the SunSmart message even easier to follow.
Greg Hunt, MP, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minster for the Environment with responsibility for the Bureau of Meteorology, launched the SunSmart UV Alert program, saying BOM was encouraging people to think about the damage the sun could do to their skin when venturing outdoors this summer by adding the SunSmart UV Alert to their usual weather forecast.
“We’re proud to be partners in this new initiative, with The Cancer Council and the Australian Radiation and Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency. The fact that 380,000 Australians are still getting skin cancer every year shows that despite the SunSmart messages, people are continuing to take risks with their health,” Mr Hunt said.
“Many people rely on the Bureau of Meteorology for all kinds of weather information, and that information often saves lives. This is another opportunity for the bureau to help save the lives of Australians by reminding them of the invisible dangers of UV radiation.”
The Cancer Council is hoping to dispel the myth that you only need to protect yourself from the sun in the middle of the day. While UV levels do tend to be higher in the middle of the day it is still possible to get sunburnt outside of the hours of 10am to 3pm, primarily because the UV radiation is still strong enough to do damage to your skin. As little as 15 minutes in the sun can result in sunburn.
While the UV index has been available as part of traditional forecasts for a number of years, Mr Hunt said the BOM was now looking forward to taking a more active role in skin cancer education. He said the BOM was hoping that as well as checking the temperature before heading outdoors this summer, people would also check the UV index as well. The BOM currently provides UV index forecasts for 179 different locations in Australia and will now generate this information as the SunSmart UV Alert each day.
To be SunSmart, a combination of sun protection measures is recommended, including:
1. Seek shade,
2. Wear protective clothing that covers the arms and legs as well as the body,
3. Wear a hat that shades the face and neck,
4. Wear wrap-around sunglasses,
5. Use SPF30+ broad spectrum sunscreen and reapply every two hours. Never use sunscreen to extend the time you spend in the sun.
12 December, 2005
ABC Journalists Scoop Walkley Awards for Excellence
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation can boast the most accomplished journalists among its staff this year following a best-ever tally of 14 Walkley awards at the annual presentations for journalistic excellence held at Luna Park, Sydney earlier this month.
The stunning result saw ABC journalists starring in both radio and television categories, with Tim Palmer winning the coveted Gold Walkley for excellence in journalism.
Palmer also won awards for both radio and television news reporting, collecting the Gold Walkley for his reports on the Boxing Day Tsunami and the Australian embassy bombing in Jakarta.
Accepting the prestigious honour, Palmer praised his producer in Aceh, Ari Wuryantama.
"He had to come to terms with what had happened to his countrymen in a deeply religious context performed incredibly beyond the call of duty," Palmer said.
ABC journalists also won awards for the best use of the medium, international journalism, investigative journalism and current affairs reporting, with Monica Attard receiving an award for broadcast interviewing.
The executive producer of Australian Story Deborah Fleming scored a Walkley for Journalistic Leadership.
12 December, 2005
Army Hits Streets in Revhead Recruiting Drive
The Australian Army has injected 7-litres of V8 supercharged muscle into its latest recruiting drive, unleashing the 6-wheel “Armygeddon” dream machine onto the public in time for this year’s Summernats street machine event in Canberra.
Launched by Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Peter Leahy, the new GM-powered monster promises to put the “drive” into recruitment.
Lt Gen Leahy said Armygeddon would attract the attention of street machine lovers and open the bonnet on technical trades opportunities in today’s Army.
“This is one amazing vehicle,” Lt Gen Leahy said. “This vehicle can do what others can only dream about - driving any wheel, or wheels, while holding the others still.”
He said its unique capabilities would attract the attention of those who really know about Street Machines.
“Anyone can do a normal burnout, only this vehicle can do these incredible combinations.”
He said the maintenance and operation of the Army street machine would provide opportunities for trainees to gain experience in a technical project that complements their formal Army training.
“Summernats is a fantastic event to launch this vehicle and the opportunities available in the Army for those interested in technical trades,” Lt Gen Leahy said.
He said the vehicle was based on a 6x6 Landrover with extensive high performance modification to the engine and drive train.
“The cabin has been modified and painted in a distinctive pattern while the tray is entirely custom built by Initial Trade Trainees.
“I am very proud to say it’s one of the Army’s newest, and coolest, recruiting tools.”
More information about Army Recruiting is available from the website www.defencejobs.gov.au web site or by phone from 13 19 01.
Summernats will run in Canberra from Friday 6 to Sunday 8 January.
9 December, 2005
Library Opens Loan Account
for National Treasures
The National Library has put together a exhibition of national treasures for a tour of the nation that will finish in two years’ time.
Ned Kelly’s helmet, Sir Donald Bradman’s cricket bat and Shane Gould’s personal diary from Munich Olympics are just some of the items that will tour the country as part of the National Treasures from Australia’s Great Libraries exhibition.
More than 170 precious items from the collections of the National Library and state and territory libraries have been brought together to tell a rich and remarkable story about our history, our nation, our treasures ... and our libraries.
The exhibition contains a diverse range of manuscripts, maps, drawings, paintings and objects -from the everyday to the exotic - all linked to Australia.
Minister for the Arts and Sport, Senator Rod Kemp, launched the exhibition at the National Library of Australia in Canberra, saying “This exhibition brings together a magnificent catalogue of national treasures from the collections of Australia’s greatest libraries.”
Senator Kemp said the National Library of Australia and state and territory libraries had produced an exhibition of meticulously preserved and presented items.
“Each of these items tells a unique story of the remarkable people and events that have shaped Australia. They bring our rich history and culture to life in a way that audiences around Australia will be able to enjoy and appreciate in the one place.”
The National Treasures exhibition is based on a series of themes including the history of the Southern Cross in Australian national life, exploration and settlement, land and nature, heroes and villains, war and loss, culture and national obsessions like sport and food.
Some of the items include:
● the hospital identification bracelet for Azaria Chamberlain, who was born on June 11 1980 and disappeared at Uluru on August 17, 1980.
● the Endeavour journal of James Cook, his personal account of the voyage to Australia.
● bound pages bearing the title List of Darwin Evacuees, a 733-page document containing the names, ages and destinations of the 32,862 residents who were compulsorily evacuated from Darwin in the days following Cyclone Tracey in 1974.
● Norman Lindsay’s original illustrations for The Magic Pudding, which were produced around 1918.
The exhibition is an initiative of the Council of Australian State Libraries (CASL) and has been managed by the National Library of Australia. The tour set off on 3 December and will cover every state and territory capital city until late 2007.
More information is available on the National Treasures website, www.nationaltreasures.nla.gov.au
Commission adds Security to Retirement Planning
Unravelling the mysteries of retirement planning has been made easier with a new allocated pension calculator launched by the Australian Securities and Investment Commission.
With so many superannuation products on the market, comparison can be a daunting and confusing task and that prompted ASIC to develop the calculator to compare various products and see how fees and charges would affect the regular payments received during retirement.
Allocated pensions can be purchased with superannuation funds and can be tax-effective ways to receive regular payments while maintaining the right to withdraw lump sums at any time.
ASIC Executive Director of Consumer Protection, Mr Greg Tanzer, said the financial decisions people have to make when they retire could often be daunting.
“It's a time when many people seek advice from a licensed financial adviser, but even then, the products and language can be complex and unfamiliar, even before you take tax and social security issues into account,” Mr Tanzer said.
“The FIDO allocated pension calculator can help you try and compare different options, and make the process easier.”
Choices the individual makes about fees and investment strategies can affect the regular payments. These choices will usually have the greatest impact on how much you can draw out and how long your allocated pension lasts.
“Naturally, each individual needs to consider their own circumstances carefully when using this calculator. You might need expert, licensed advice on retirement planning,” Mr Tanzer said.
ASIC also expects to develop further calculators to cover other important retirement income products. The new calculator is available on ASIC's consumer website FIDO at www.fido.gov.au/calculators
9 December, 2005
Family-Friendly Workplaces Recognised in New Book
The Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Kevin Andrews, has released a new Government booklet on the relationship between work and family.
Launched at a recent awards night honouring companies and public sector agencies that promoted a balance between work and families, the publication provides an overview of work and family issues in Australia, from labour market statistics to legislation protecting parents.
It also details Government policies to assist families as well as legal protections and opportunities under the new workplace relations legislation.
Launching the book entitled “Work and Family: The Importance of Workplace Flexibility in Promoting Balance Between Work and Family , Mr Andrews said Government recognised that flexible, family friendly working arrangements were critical in assisting both men and women to find an appropriate balance between their work and family responsibilities.
He said many employees had access to family friendly working arrangements in their Certified Agreements or AWA’s that were not included in Awards.
“Arrangements such as part-time work, hours flexibility and work from home can provide flexibility to employees with a wider range of family needs, including elder care responsibilities,’’ the Minister said.
He said flexible working arrangements negotiated with a family-friendly employer could make an “incredible difference” to a person’s life, particularly if they were going through a particularly difficult time or trying to juggle the responsibilities everyone has in their daily lives.
He said despite the growing tend towards family-friendly workplaces, there was still scope for improvement.
“Family friendly working arrangements are not evenly spread across occupations and industries,’’ Mr Andrews said.
“There are many employees and managers who are locked into the old, rigid, inflexible ways of working, constrained by third party intervention and inflexible industrial awards.”
He said the need for more flexibility in the workplace was a key to the Government’s workplace relations and welfare changes.
9 December, 2005
Death of a Leader
Long-serving Labor Senator Peter Cook has