Media Statements: Statements

State Budget 2012-13: Building the State - Minerals Research Institute to help drive discoveries

Wed, 16 May 2012 03:25:34 GMT

Content:

$7.5million over three years to support mineral research
Supporting research to develop new exploration and processing technologies

A Minerals Research Institute promoting mineral research in Western Australia will be established with $7.5million in funding in the State Government's 2012-13 Budget.

Mines and Petroleum Minister Norman Moore said the initiative would focus on researching new technologies that fostered improved exploration techniques and promoted new processing methods.

“This research will promote the long-term international competitiveness of WA’s minerals industry through innovation, increased productivity and investment attraction,” Mr Moore said.

“WA is a world leader in the resources industry and the sector’s importance to the State’s economy is well known, however it is vital the Government invest in research for the future benefit of all West Australians.”

The Minister announced the new initiative while presenting the Minerals and Energy Research Institute of WA 2012 scholarship winners.

Mr Moore said the new institute would continue the work of the existing Minerals and Energy Research Institute of WA (MERIWA) scholarship program, building on its achievements.

“The institute will provide a better resourced organisation with stronger governance and board arrangements to oversee the research programs and with representatives from industry and universities on the board to ensure research programs target and deliver long-term benefits for WA’s resources sector,” he said.

“The mining sector is a finite industry and its long-term survival depends on the discovery of new resources and the development of new technologies.

“These new technologies will play a vital role in making previously uneconomic deposits attractive to industry and the establishment of this Institute represents a strategic model to support the future sustainability of the State’s minerals industry by managing and targeting minerals research in WA.”

Fact File

WA has risen to be ranked a joint leader by the Fraser Institute Survey (measuring reputation as an exploration investment destination), for survey results, go to: http://www.fraserinstitute.org

Minister's office - 6552 5400

Date: 16/05/2012

Minister: Moore;Porter

Portfolio: Mines and Petroleum;Treasurer

Region: All

Resources research gets scholarship boost

Wed, 16 May 2012 03:16:23 GMT

Content:

$65,000 offered over seven mineral and energy research scholarships
Scholarship program designed to attract and retain WA researchers
State Government invested $20million into MERIWA since 1981

Seven West Australian post-graduate students will share $65,000 in scholarships for research projects in the mineral and energy industries.

Mines and Petroleum Minister Norman Moore announced the 2012 Minerals and Energy Research Institute of Western Australia (MERIWA) scholarship winners this morning.

Mr Moore said the scholarship program was crucial in attracting and retaining future generations of researchers, to support the growth of the mineral and energy industries.

“Over the past 30 years this program has supported 284 research projects which have helped to stimulate growth in this State’s minerals and extractive energy industries,” he said.

Six scholarships of $10,000 ($5,000 for stipend, $5,000 for project maintenance) were awarded to Zoja Vukmanovic, Margaux le Vaillant, Amir Mokaramin, Bryn Funnekotter, Vida Minaeian and Maryam Jozegholami Barmi. Kerryn Chia received a half scholarship. Ms Vukmanovic and Ms Chia both received scholarships for the second consecutive year to further research they started last year.

The Minister said it was extremely important to encourage this sort of best practice research and innovation in the minerals and energy sector.

“Not only will it ensure future technological challenges faced by the minerals and energy sector are met with innovative solutions, but will also ensure WA continues to provide cutting-edge research for the mineral and energy industries through universities and other government and private laboratories,” he said.

MERIWA’s 2012 scholarship recipients and projects are:

Zoja Vukmanovic (UWA) researching the processes involved in the remobilisation of nickel sulphides

Margaux le Vaillant (UWA) researching the nature, geometry and size of hydrothermal remobilisation of base metals, platinum group elements and gold around magmatic nickel sulphide deposits

Amir Mokaramin (Curtin) focusing on introducing the technology of coiled tube drilling from existing applications in the petroleum industry, for deep mineral exploration drilling

Bryn Funnekotter (Curtin) researching effective cryo-preservation protocols

Vida Minaeian (Curtin) investigating the physical and mechanical characteristics of shale gas

Maryam Jozegholami Barmi (Murdoch) looking to produce efficient, large scale cobalt composite electrodes for base metal electro-winning systems

Kerryn Chia (UWA) further researching methods to reduce dormancy loss and promote germination in snottygobble seeds.

Fact File

More information about the scholarship program is available at the MERIWA website

Minister's office - 6552 5400

Date: 16/05/2012

Minister: Moore

Portfolio: Mines and Petroleum

Region: All

New plan identifies Peel region water availability

Wed, 16 May 2012 01:31:43 GMT

Content:

40GL available for licensing
Supporting regional growth through water availability

A new water allocation plan for the Peel region will provide certainty about groundwater availability for a range of important industries while supporting growth in the region.

Water Minister Bill Marmion said the Murray groundwater allocation plan confirmed that 40 gigalitres of water was available for licencing.

“Groundwater in the Murray area is a vital resource for the regional economy,” Mr Marmion said.

“It supports agriculture, horticulture, mining, industrial, urban and recreational activities as well as the internationally recognised significant ecosystems and wetlands of the Peel region.”

The Minister said the plan achieved a balance between the future water needs for the Peel region and the existing needs of the environment and licensed users.

“The Government has listened to concerns about over abstraction of groundwater resources and how declining rainfall could adversely affect the area’s groundwater-dependent ecosystem,” he said.

“The plan allows for water to be licenced, based on an improved understanding of the Murray system. The allocation limits have been set at 75 per cent of recharge, with the balance reserved to protect aquifer integrity and the environment.

“It therefore provides clarity for both water users and the broader community, so that the ongoing benefits from these water resources can be realised.”

Fact File:

40GL available for licensing
Allocation limits set at 75 per cent of calculated recharge
Complements the 2011 Murray drainage and water management plan
The plan and statement of response to public submissions during its comment period are available from http://www.water.wa.gov.au

Minister’s office - 6552 6800

Date: 16/05/2012

Minister: Marmion

Portfolio: Water

Region: Peel

Grants benefit boating facilities around WA

Wed, 16 May 2012 01:12:05 GMT

Content:

38 projects to share $5.79million in funding from RBFS
Includes Royalties for Regions funding of $4.66million

Recreational boating enthusiasts around the State will share the benefits of nearly $6million in State Government funding to improve boating facilities.

Announcing the latest round of Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme (RBFS) grants today, Transport Minister Troy Buswell and Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said 38 projects throughout Western Australia would receive a total of $5.79million.

“Increased funding for boating infrastructure, which is costly to implement and maintain, will ensure facilities meet the needs of WA’s growing boating community,” Mr Buswell said.

“Through the RBFS, the State Government is able to work in partnership with local government and other authorities to provide appropriate facilities."

Mr Grylls said a total of $4.66million in Royalties for Regions funding had been allocated under round 17 of the RBFS.

“Last year, Royalties for Regions committed $20million over four funding rounds of the scheme resulting in a fivefold increase in RBFS grant funding available for regional projects,” he said.

“Recreational boating is a popular pastime for both residents and visitors, and the provision of new boating facilities is an important component in improving safety and increasing the social amenity of our regional communities.”

The RBFS provides up to 75 per cent of funding for new or improved facilities which benefit the recreational boating public.

Fact File

Since its introduction the RBFS has seen $25.9m allocated to 320 projects throughout WA (rounds one to seventeen)

The Royalties for Regions fund will contribute $20m towards regional projects funded under rounds 16-19 of the RBFS

Eligible authorities may also apply for planning grants which result in detailed plans, cost estimates, approvals or similar for public recreational boating facilities

Further information about the RBFS is available at http://www.transport.wa.gov.au/rbfs or by contacting the RBFS Project Officer on 9435 7513

Transports Minister's office - 6552 6400
Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 5500

Date: 16/05/2012

Minister: Buswell;Grylls

Portfolio: Transport;Regional Development

Region: All

Celebrating excellence in Aboriginal education

Wed, 16 May 2012 00:39:31 GMT

Content:

Teachers making a difference for Aboriginal students will be recognised
Minister calls on community to nominate an inspiring educator

Western Australia’s most dedicated teachers in the area of Aboriginal education will be recognised at the WA Aboriginal Education Awards.

Education Minister Liz Constable, who called for nominations for the awards today, said outstanding teachers, educators and leaders working with Aboriginal students across Western Australia should be acknowledged, their successes shared and learned from.

“These awards will acknowledge the hard work and dedication of those committed teachers and educators who are shaping a brighter future for Aboriginal students in public schools,” Dr Constable said.

“There are inspiring people doing amazing work in schools to help Western Australian Aboriginal students achieve their potential.

“I am determined to see improvements in the education outcomes of Aboriginal students and acknowledge these people who are making progress in this important area of education.”

The five award categories are:

WA Outstanding Aboriginal and Islander Education Officer (Ben Drayton Award)
WA Outstanding Aboriginal Teacher (Barry Hayward Award)
WA Outstanding School Initiative for Aboriginal Students (Milton Thorne Award)
WA Outstanding Leader in Aboriginal Education
WA Excellence in Teaching and Learning in Aboriginal Education

The winners of the WA Outstanding Aboriginal Teacher; WA Outstanding Leader in Aboriginal Education; and WA Excellence in Teaching and Learning in Aboriginal Education category will represent Western Australian public education in the national education awards.

Tom Price Primary School teacher Freyja Lucas was last year’s nominee for this inaugural national award.

“Freyja - a year 4 teacher - is an inspirational educator, her hands-on approach to learning has helped to dramatically improve literacy and numeracy results along with attendance rates at her Pilbara school,” Dr Constable said.

Fact File

Winners of all award categories will each receive a prize of $2,500 for professional development and leadership opportunities
Nomination forms are on the WA Aboriginal Education Awards website http://www.det.wa.edu.au/aboriginaleducationawards. Nominations close on Tuesday June 5, 2012

Minister’s office - 6552 5700

Date: 16/05/2012

Minister: Constable

Portfolio: Education

Region: All

Successful industrial estate keeps pace with Pilbara growth

Wed, 16 May 2012 00:33:30 GMT

Content:

Stage 4 at Gap Ridge Industrial Estate released
Government delivering industrial land to meet growing demand

A new industrial land release in Karratha will help meet continuing demand created by major resource projects in the Pilbara region.

As part of the State Government’s Pilbara Cities initiative, Stage 4 at Gap Ridge Industrial Estate will provide a further 10 industrial lots to keep pace with the region’s strong economic growth.

Lands Minister Brendon Grylls said LandCorp was delivering the 260ha estate to boost the region’s supply of quality, strategic land for businesses supporting the oil, gas and mining sectors.

“Gap Ridge will be one of the Pilbara’s largest industrial developments, supporting demand created by more than $129billion of current and potential projects,” Mr Grylls said.

“Located on Dampier Highway, and the only route between the Burrup Dampier Port and Karratha, the estate provides a range of fully serviced lots for businesses requiring efficient transport access.

“The State Government is delivering on its commitment to create modern higher density centres in the Pilbara, supported by the delivery of light and general industrial land.”

Previous stages at Gap Ridge have sold quickly with only eight of the 41 released lots remaining.

Companies that have already purchased land at Gap Ridge include Toll, Centurion, Monadelphous, Coates Hire, Karratha Panel & Paint and Killarnee Civil and Concrete Contractors.

Fact File

120ha of land released at Gap Ridge since early 2010
Stage 4 features 10 lots (3,600sqm to 1.3ha)
Stage 3 released 6 general industrial lots sized from 4.13ha in November 2011
Located 9km west of Karratha on Dampier Highway
For more information visit http://www.landcorp.com.au/gapridge

Minister’s office - 6552 5500

Date: 16/05/2012

Minister: Grylls

Portfolio: Lands

Region: Pilbara

Boomers take on China in pre-Olympic battle

Wed, 16 May 2012 00:23:29 GMT

Content:

YouYi Games return to WA for second year
Three matches to be played in WA
Only chance to see Australia v China on Australian soil in 2012

The Australian Boomers will take on Team China in three exciting international basketball matches in Western Australia in the lead up to the London Olympics.

Tourism Minister Kim Hames said the two teams would face off as part of the YouYi Games international series, which was returning to WA for the second year.

Dr Hames said it would be the only chance for Aussie basketball fans to see their heroes in action against China in Australia this year.

“The YouYi Games are a unique feature of WA’s diverse events calendar, and this year they will see the Australian and Chinese national men’s teams play in Perth and Albany,” he said.

“Australia and China are ranked nine and 10 in the world respectively and have drawn the same group for the Olympic competition, so these three matches will be a crucial part of the pre-Olympic preparation for both sides.”

The Minister said the Perth matches would be broadcast into China via CCTV, across Australia on Fox Sports and throughout WA on WIN and Channel 9.

“The YouYi Games offers West Australians the chance to see a great sporting contest in the lead up to the London Olympics as well as creating great exposure for WA in one of our key tourism markets, China,” he said.

The first match in the series will be played at Perth’s Challenge Stadium on Saturday June 9. The teams will then travel to Albany for the second match on Monday June 11 and return to Perth on Wednesday June 13 for the final match at Challenge Stadium.

Dr Hames said the State Government, through Eventscorp, was proud to support the YouYi Games.

Fact File

YouYi is Mandarin for ‘friendship’
The series is organised by former Perth Wildcat and Boomers player Andrew Vlahov through his company RV Sport
For more information, including ticket details, visit http://www.youyigames.com

Minister’s office - 6552 5300

Date: 16/05/2012

Minister: Hames

Portfolio: Tourism

Region: All

Training Together-Working Together update

Tue, 15 May 2012 07:17:36 GMT

Content:

Aboriginal Workforce Development Centres achieving real outcomes
Training Together-Working Together placing real people in real jobs

Training and Workforce Development Minister Peter Collier has outlined the State Government’s achievements in Aboriginal training and workforce development and released an update on the progress of the Training Together-Working Together Aboriginal Workforce Development Strategy.

Mr Collier said the Liberal-National Government was creating tangible opportunities for Aboriginal people in the current landscape of high demand for skills through Aboriginal Workforce Development Centres set up in Perth, Broome, Bunbury, Geraldton and Kalgoorlie-Boulder.

“As of late March 2012, a total of 251 individual Aboriginal job seekers had been placed in employment, and another 94 in training,” he said.

“Active partnerships have been developed with hundreds of employers and service providers across the State, ensuring real people are able to find real jobs.”

The Minister said the Training Together-Working Together (TTWT) Aboriginal Workforce Development Strategy, released in 2010, was a pathway to ensure that Aboriginal people were able to connect with job opportunities, while employers were aware of funding sources and programs.

“The Department of Training and Workforce Development adopted a whole-of-agency approach to identifying and addressing the needs of Aboriginal West Australians,” he said.

“These centres operate on both sides of the equation, linking Aboriginal people with job opportunities and offering career guidance, and providing employers with advice on culturally sensitive recruitment and retention strategies. Each centre has its own local steering committee with strong Aboriginal representation to ensure that the needs of each community are recognised.

“A website has also been established to highlight a range of useful resources for job seekers and employers, including video clips of successful Aboriginal role models who can inspire young people in particular to take advantage of employment opportunities.”

Fact File

As of March 2012, a total of 251 individual Aboriginal job seekers had been placed in employment, and another 94 in training

Minister’s office - 6552 6300

Date: 15/05/2012

Minister: Collier

Portfolio: Training and Workforce Development

Region: All

WA Govt supports increase in State Wage Case

Tue, 15 May 2012 05:29:28 GMT

Content:

Submission recommends CPI-based increase for WA workers

The State Government’s submission to the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission’s State Wage Case has recommended the State minimum wage be increased in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

Commerce Minister Simon O’Brien said the Government recognised the importance of ensuring the incomes of workers who were dependent on minimum wages or award rates kept pace with the cost of living.

“It’s also important in the current economic conditions that we support the viability and competitiveness of our small businesses,” Mr O’Brien said.

“An inflation-based adjustment represents a balanced and sustainable outcome for employers and maintains the standard of living of workers in this State.”

A copy of the WA Government’s submission will soon be available on the Department of Commerce’s Labour Relations website: http://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/LabourRelations

Fact File

In 2011 the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission granted a $19.90 per week increase to the State minimum and award pay rates
This resulted in the current minimum wage of $607.10 per week, or $15.98 per hour

Minister’s office - 6552 5800

Date: 15/05/2012

Minister: O'Brien

Portfolio: Commerce

Region: All

Amendments to update Bankwest legislation

Tue, 15 May 2012 05:11:06 GMT

Content:

Legislation to be introduced into State Parliament tomorrow (Wednesday) to enable Bankwest to comply with federal policy
Key provisions ensuring Bankwest’s continued commitment to WA

The State Government will tomorrow introduce legislation securing and strengthening Bankwest’s financial and operational commitments to Western Australia.

Treasurer Christian Porter announced the commitments as part of a legislative package designed to enable Bankwest and the Commonwealth Bank (CBA) to comply with federal regulations requiring them to operate under a single banking licence.

Mr Porter said the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority required Bankwest (which has been owned by CBA since 2008) to cease operating as a separate company and operate under the same banking licence as CBA, or raise funds under its own Authorised Deposit-taking Institution (ADI) licence.

He said any change to allow Bankwest to operate under the CBA’s ADI licence meant amendments had to be made to the Bank of Western Australia Act 1995 in State Parliament.

If amendments were not made there would be costs to Bankwest customers because Bankwest would be forced to raise funds more expensively and separately to the CBA.

“Given the potential impact on the Western Australian community and small businesses, the Government has to make the necessary minor changes to the legislation,” Mr Porter said.

The Treasurer said key commitments already in the existing legislation would be maintained and updated to reflect Bankwest’s new corporate structure, including continuing to carry on the type and scale of Bankwest’s business at June 2011 levels and keeping the location of the head office and management in WA.

The legislation also means that, for a period of at least five years, Bankwest will be required to:

maintain a specified minimum number of branches, business centres etc in WA, with no closure of regional branches except for amalgamations or relocations in a local area
maintain four specified senior officers, in addition to the managing director, in WA
maintain Bankwest sponsorship and community support activities in the State at no less than current levels.

“These additional commitments go well beyond the provisions of the 1995 Act and are a good outcome for the community in Western Australia. Further, these undertakings are backed by specific enforcement provisions with significant monetary penalties if they are not complied with,” Mr Porter said.

Fact File

The four specified senior officers are chief information officer, chief financial officer, head of human resources and chief risk officer
Bankwest is required to provide an annual certificate confirming compliance

Treasurer’s office - 6552 5600

Date: 15/05/2012

Minister: Porter

Portfolio: Treasurer

Region: All

$20million ‘eye in the sky’ for WA Police

Tue, 15 May 2012 05:00:43 GMT

Content:

New hi-tech helicopter to join police Air Wing fleet
Will be a vital tool in traffic enforcement and police pursuits

Western Australia Police received a massive boost to its crime-fighting capabilities with a second state-of-the-art helicopter joining its Air Wing fleet.

Police Minister Rob Johnson today commissioned the Eurocopter Dauphin, known as Polair 62, as it prepares to begin a two-week ground and airborne trial before becoming fully operational.

Mr Johnson said the second helicopter would mean police could deliver a superior level of service to both metropolitan and regional areas and support police in delivering a safer community, a rapid response to crime and a high level of traffic enforcement.

“WA Police has spent six months reconfiguring the helicopter to accommodate the various systems that Police Air Wing need to carry out its policing role,” he said.

“More than 3,500 hours were spent on designing and integrating a range of electronic and electrical systems, including sophisticated sensor equipment, a forward-looking infra-red camera, a multi-agency communication suite, Tardis, special lighting, a rescue winch and other critical mission equipment.

“This is a major boost to our efforts to crack down on criminal activity and will ensure WA police have the most advanced equipment they need in order to rapidly respond to any incidents that occur across the State.”

The Minister said the Eurocopter Dauphin already had a stellar service history. This model is used by the United Kingdom’s Special Forces, the United States Coast Guard, and Victoria Police.

Fact File

The Eurocopter Dauphin was purchased with State Government funding in the 2009-10 Budget
WA Police worked with local WA companies, Thomson Design and Premiair Aviation Maintenance, to design and complete the integration of the helicopter
Polair 62 will add to Police Air Wing’s fleet of four aircraft, and will complement the unit’s existing BK-117 helicopter
Ground and air testing of the aircraft by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) will start this week, with deployment dependent on CASA approvals. If the testing schedule is completed within its expected timeframe, the Polair 62 could be fully operational in approximately 2 weeks

Minister’s office - 6552 5900

Date: 15/05/2012

Minister: Johnson

Portfolio: Police

Region: All

Volunteers: the backbone of WA’s community

Tue, 15 May 2012 03:10:45 GMT

Content:

National Volunteer Week under way
More than half a million volunteers contribute billions of dollars to WA economy

As National Volunteer Week gets under way, Seniors and Volunteering Minister Robyn McSweeney has expressed her deep gratitude to Western Australia’s army of more than 600,000 volunteers for their tireless and inspirational work.

“With so many West Australians volunteering many of us would encounter a volunteer nearly every day, whether it is a lifesaver, sports coach, literacy tutor, a hospital visitor or a fire and emergency volunteer,” Mrs McSweeney said.

“This week especially I ask the community to stop and thank a volunteer for the work they do in our community, usually without expecting anything in return.”

In Western Australia volunteers contribute more than 288 million hours annually, estimated to be worth $9.4billion to the WA economy last year.

“Volunteers are the backbone of many organisations and through their work they build stronger and more compassionate communities,” the Minister said.

The State Government has demonstrated its commitment to these remarkable people through its Vital Volunteering Strategy 2011-2016, which also aims to encourage West Australians to volunteer at a local level.

An important part of the strategy is to recognise and honour WA volunteers.

“Last year the Government introduced a 50-year service badge to honour people who had volunteered for half a century or more with the one organisation,” Mrs McSweeney said.

“What is tremendous is more than 200 badges have been awarded. I know there are more of these amazing people out there and encourage organisations to nominate long-serving volunteers for this year’s badge presentations.”

The State Government also makes up to $1,000 available to community organisations each year to host Thank-a-Volunteer-Day events.

In 2011-12 more than $700,000 was provided to Volunteer Development Services to strengthen volunteering within community organisations.

The State Government is also sponsoring tomorrow night’s National Volunteer Week gala dinner where WA’s volunteer of the year awards will be presented.

Fact File

National Volunteer Week runs from May 14-20
Last year more than 600,000 volunteers contributed an estimated $9.4b to WA community
50 Year Volunteer Service Badge nominations open, more information at http://www.communities.wa.gov.au

Minister’s office - 6552 6500

Date: 15/05/2012

Minister: McSweeney

Portfolio: Seniors and Volunteering

Region: All

WA can count on fire and emergency services volunteers

Tue, 15 May 2012 03:15:06 GMT

Content:

National Volunteer Week, May 14-20
WA has more than 32,000 fire and emergency services volunteers

The State Government is calling for the Western Australian community to acknowledge and reflect on the critical role of fire and emergency services volunteers during National Volunteer Week.

Emergency Services Minister Troy Buswell said WA communities were well-served and carefully watched over by thousands of dedicated volunteers during destructive bushfires, cyclones, floods and storms.

“This week provides an opportunity for West Australians to acknowledge volunteers for their strength, courage and selflessness in protecting local communities during natural disasters and emergencies,” Mr Buswell said.

“More than 32,000 men and women across this vast and diverse State are volunteer members of brigades, units and groups.

“These volunteers that put in countless hours each and every year to keep us safe are our fellow citizens; they are our neighbours, colleagues, family and friends.

“This week is not just a time to embrace our volunteers, it is also a time to recognise their supportive families and employers who ensure our volunteers are available around the clock to help others.”

The Minister said WA’s emergency services volunteers faced a wide range of challenges throughout the year and had rallied to respond during recent months when parts of the State were burnt and battered by bushfires, storms and cyclones.

“Our volunteer fire, emergency and marine rescue services perform a truly remarkable role constantly on standby to keep communities safe, and save lives on land and at sea,” he said.

“I encourage West Australians to take the time the thank these volunteers who are always there to lend a hand, in all weather conditions, protecting us in the face of danger or helping to clean up after a threat has passed.”

Fact File

In WA there are 2,094 SES volunteers, 1,421 volunteer marine rescue services members, 617 volunteer emergency service members, 404 volunteer fire service firefighters, 2,344 volunteer fire and rescue service firefighters and 25,832 bush fire service volunteer firefighters

Minister’s office - 6552 6400

Date: 15/05/2012

Minister: Buswell

Portfolio: Emergency Services

Region: All

Nominations open for 2012 WA Water Awards

Tue, 15 May 2012 03:03:18 GMT

Content:

Nominations open for WA Water Awards
Awards celebrate outstanding water achievement in WA

Water Minister Bill Marmion today called for nominations in the 2012 Australian Water Association WA Water Awards, which recognise significant contributions made by organisations and individuals to water management in Western Australia.

“Western Australia is at the forefront of water innovation and the WA Water Awards provide an excellent opportunity to highlight the outstanding work being done to ensure the sustainability of our State’s precious water resources,” Mr Marmion said.

“I encourage individuals, businesses, schools and other organisations to nominate themselves or others for achievement in areas such as water management, innovation, conservation and efficiency.”

The awards are organised by the Australian Water Association and presented by the Department of Water and the Water Corporation. They recognise achievement in the following categories:

Infrastructure innovation
Program innovation
Research innovation
Resource management
Conservation and efficiency
Recycling
Waterwise business
Waterwise council
Waterwise school
Water professional
Young water professional

Nominations close on Friday September 7, 2012 and winners will be announced at a gala dinner on Friday November 23, 2012. To find out more about the WA Water Awards or to download a nomination kit, go to http://www.awa.asn.au/awards/wa.

Fact File

The Australian Water Association is an independent group representing water professionals and organisations around Australia. Winners will automatically be entered into the 2012 Australian Water Association National Award category

Minister’s office - 6552 6800

Date: 15/05/2012

Minister: Marmion

Portfolio: Water

Region: All

Office of Bushfire Risk Management formed

Tue, 15 May 2012 02:18:02 GMT

Content:

Office of Bushfire Risk Management (OBRM) is operational and reporting directly to FESA CEO
Will assess the risks of prescribed burns and facilitate improved co-ordination between agencies involved in prescribed burning

The Office of Bushfire Risk Management (OBRM) is now operating to independently assess the risks of prescribed burns undertaken by the Department of Environment and Conservation, in accordance with the State Government’s commitment following the release of the Keelty report into the Margaret River bushfires.

Emergency Services Minister Troy Buswell said the new office reported directly to Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) CEO Wayne Gregson.

“Once fully-established, the OBRM will assess the risks of all prescribed burns, as well as the level of resources available should such burns flare out of control,” Mr Buswell said.

“This office reports directly to the FESA CEO to ensure the prescribed burning process is independently scrutinised before ignition of the burn, and has the authority to direct a burn to be delayed or even cancelled if it deems the risks to be too great.”

The Minister said prescribed burning had an important role to play in protecting local communities and important economic, social, ecological and heritage assets from bushfire, but had to be carefully managed.

“The Government is committed to achieving the benefits of prescribed burning while ensuring it is conducted in such a way that the associated risk is understood and is as low as is reasonably practicable,” he said.

“Once fully-established, the OBRM will ensure that the future approach to bushfire risk mitigation programs and decision making is consistent with international risk management practice.

“In line with the Keelty recommendations, it will also facilitate greater information sharing and co-ordination between agencies involved in prescribed burning and management of bushfire-related risk generally.”

The interim director of the OBRM is Mark Webb, who will return to his role as CEO of the Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority once a permanent appointment is made in the coming months.

Fact File

Appreciating the Risk - The Report of the Special Inquiry Into the November 2011 Margaret River Bushfire available at http://www.publicsector.wa.gov.au

Minister’s office - 6552 6400

Date: 15/05/2012

Minister: Buswell

Portfolio: Emergency Services

Region: All

7,000 criminals nabbed in summer crime operation

Mon, 14 May 2012 06:10:36 GMT

Content:

Police blitz reverses historical summer crime trend by 2.7 per cent
$3million strategy nets more than $3.1million in criminal assets
Drugs, guns and weapons taken off the streets

Western Australia Police have arrested and summonsed more than 7,000 offenders and seized drugs, weapons, cash and stolen property in a crime crackdown last summer.

Police Minister Rob Johnson said the State Government and WA Police launched the $3million Summer Crime Reduction Strategy in December to combat an expected rise in offences such as burglary and theft during the busy months to April.

Mr Johnson said last November, WA had recorded an increase in reported crime of 8.3 per cent on the previous year but the sustained police effort had driven that figure down to 5.6 per cent.

“Although reported crime is still below the five year average, we were keen to target what historically has become a time of increased crime, anti-social behaviour and requests for police assistance,” he said.

“The funding boost provided an extra 43,000 policing hours, allowing police officers to saturate the suburbs, raid hundreds of properties and dedicate time and effort to specific crime types.

“The police blitz brings the number of offenders arrested to 28,013, almost 2,000 more arrests than in the same period last year.

“Police were able to target and disrupt the activities of mid-level drug dealers and conduct more than 300 drug searches, resulting in the seizure of more than $3.1million in cash and assets.”

The summer crime crackdown comprised six operations targeting drug dealers and manufacturers, pawn brokers and second-hand dealers, property crime, graffiti and anti-social behaviour, resulting in:

3,350 arrests
9,759 charges
3,696 summonses
410 move-on notices
29 improvised drug manufacture sites (IDMS) being uncovered and dismantled

“Disturbingly, a number of the improvised drug manufacture sites raided by police were actively processing and worse still, children were present at seven of the 29 properties,” Mr Johnson said.

Among the drug arrests, was a man allegedly supplying up to 30 people with methylamphetamine every few days and another found in possession of MDMA powder, a pill press and firearms.

Other police targets included pawnbrokers and second-hand dealers in Perth who were all audited, with 12 receiving infringements and 11 being cautioned.

Fact File

Operations Safe Place, Railsafe and Sieve (anti-social behaviour and violence in public places) were also run at the same time to complement the Summer Crime Reduction Strategy
New laws that came into effect in March this year introduced minimum mandatory jail terms for adults who manufacture, cultivate or prepare illicit drugs that expose or cause harm to a child
Full list of operational results attached

Minister’s office - 6552 5900

Date: 14/05/2012

Minister: Johnson

Portfolio: Police

Region: All

Attachments: http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/Attachments/150065/summercrimereductionstrategy.pdf

Key decisions on new stadium announced

Mon, 07 May 2012 06:17:43 GMT

Content:

Stadium dimensions determined after consultation with major sports
Design to allow for expansion in the future

Premier Colin Barnett today announced the size and orientation of the new major stadium at Burswood and confirmed the initial capacity.

The Liberal-National Government has committed itself to providing regular updates on progress with planning the new stadium with the following three major decisions being made:

The stadium will have an east:west orientation - the same as Patersons Stadium and the MCG. The orientation meets the requirements of the International Cricket Council (ICC) for international cricket and will provide optimal viewing for rectangular based sports such as rugby and soccer
The field will be 165m long and 130m wide, meaning Perth’s AFL stadium will remain one of the longer grounds in Australia
The capacity of the stadium will be 60,000 initially as previously announced but it will be designed to allow expansion in the future. The ultimate capacity will need to be supported by future demand but could expand to 70,000 or even 80,000 by putting additional seating along the wings which is the optimum viewing for all sports.

“The important thing about these announcements is that they form the foundation for all of the other design requirements for the stadium,” Mr Barnett said.

Sport and Recreation Minister Terry Waldron said these decisions were a result of consultation with sporting bodies combined with the State Government’s desire to achieve a ‘Fan First’ outcome.

“One design innovation being considered is the inclusion of ‘field clubs’ - onfield hospitality facilities at ground level bringing the fans much closer to the action zone,” Mr Waldron said.

Mr Waldron said the project definition phase of the project was progressing well and he was expecting the report to Government to be completed by the middle of the year.

Fact File

Stadium field of play to be 165m x 130m (5m longer than MCG and Etihad. Patersons Stadium is 175m x 122m)
Stadium orientation to be east:west (same as Patersons Stadium and the MCG). The orientation also means that only one set of media facilities is required, compared to two for north:south orientation
Stadium will have third-biggest capacity in Australia and become second-biggest AFL home stadium
For more information go to http://www.perthstadium.com.au

Premier’s office: 6552 5000
Sport and Recreation Minister’s office: 6552 6100

Date: 7/05/2012

Minister: Barnett;Waldron

Portfolio: Premier;Sport and Recreation

Region: South Eastern Suburbs

Historic funding boost for road safety in WA

Sun, 13 May 2012 03:17:54 GMT

Content:

RTTA funding boost to upgrade metro intersections and regional roads
New concept cars for every police district in WA
WA to become the first jurisdiction in the world to trial new concept motorbikes
Drug testing of drivers to increase by 125 per cent
One million motorists to be breath tested annually
More than 64,000 hours of additional enforcement on WA roads

The State Government has today unveiled an $87.7million funding package to implement significant road safety measures across Western Australia.

Road Safety Minister Rob Johnson said the Government had carefully considered recommendations from the Road Safety Council to develop the package, which focused on metropolitan and regional road upgrades, drink and drug driving and police enforcement.

Mr Johnson said this was the first year the Road Trauma Trust Account (RTTA) had been boosted to such a record high level, thanks to the Liberal-National Government’s decision to transfer two-thirds of all speed camera revenue to the fund in 2011-12, increasing to 100 per cent from July 1 this year.

“We now have the potential to save many more lives and prevent hundreds of people from critical injuries thanks to this funding boost,” he said.

“A key aim will be to make our roads safer with upgrades to metropolitan intersections and roadside safety improvements to regional roads in line with our 12-year Towards Zero road safety strategy.

“There will be a significant expansion of police enforcement activities, particularly with the allocation of two concept cars to each of the 14 police districts across metropolitan and regional WA. These cars are the most advanced police vehicles of their kind in the world and have attracted the interest of international policing units such as the Los Angeles Police Department.

“WA will become the first jurisdiction in the world to trial two new concept motorbikes, which will enable police to identify speeding motorists, stolen vehicles, unlicensed drivers and persons of interest.

“We will also be providing 20 extra police officers and funding for additional policing hours to significantly expand breath testing operations to assist police in reaching a target of one million tests in 2012-13.

“In total, there will be a massive increase of 64,000 hours of additional traffic enforcement across the State in 2012-13, which will go a long way in saving lives and reducing serious injuries on WA roads.”

Funding highlights in the 2012-13 RTTA budget include:

$21.6million for safety upgrades to metropolitan intersections
$20.1million for regional and remote road and roadside safety improvements
$11.4million to reduce impaired driving including 48 new concept cars; two concept motorbikes; expanded breath and drug testing; 20 additional drug testing machines; and 20 additional officers to conduct testing, equating to an additional 36,800 hours of enforcement. Community education to reduce drink and drug driving
$17.9million to reduce speeding, including 27,500 hours of additional traffic enforcement; additional school crossing zone lights; and community education
$3.4million on improving vehicle safety; crash testing; and a study of motorcycle crashes and roadside crash barriers
$11.6million on community initiatives such as establishing a road trauma support service, neurotrauma research, local government programs (Roadwise), school education (Road Aware).

Fact File

WA and Queensland are the only States to place 100 per cent of speed camera revenue into a dedicated road safety account
Full list of funding highlights is below

Minister's office - 6552 5900

2012-13 Road Trauma Trust Account Budget highlights

1. Metropolitan Intersection Crashes ($21.7million or 25 per cent of the 2012-13 budget)

A total of $21.6million has been allocated for safety upgrades to metropolitan intersections.

Each year, a fatal or serious injury crash occurs at approximately 470 intersections.

The safety performance at intersections will be improved through measures such as the implementation of roundabouts, full control right turn traffic signals and measures to manage speeds at intersections.

The budget includes funding for Main Roads Western Australia (MRWA) and local governments to address priority intersections. Proposed sites to be upgraded include:

Reid Highway and Malaga Drive - City of Swan: Improve intersection geometry, install mast arms and red light cameras
South Street and Kwinana Freeway (south bound off ramp) - City of Melville: Install mast arm, upgrade signals to LED and install red light cameras
Reid Highway and Mitchell Freeway (south bound off ramp) - City of Stirling: Improve intersection geometry and lane allocation and upgrade pedestrian facilities
Ennis Avenue, Elanora Drive and Grange Drive - City of Rockingham: Install mast arms, upgrade signals to LED and improve pedestrian facilities
South Street and Findlay Road - City of Melville: Improve intersection geometry and trial Enhanced Intersection Warning system
Albany Highway and Liege Street, City of Canning: Improve intersection geometry, pedestrian facilities and signal phasing, install mast arms and red light cameras.

The scope of the above works may be altered during the planning process.

An additional $100,000 has been allocated for a cyclist safety study.

2. Run-off Crashes on Regional Roads ($21.6million or 25 per cent of the 2012-13 budget)

In 2012-13, it is proposed that around 25 per cent of the RTTA will be expended in supporting Main Roads WA and local governments in installing roadside safety treatments to help reduce run-off crashes on regional roads. A total of $20million will be spent on roadside safety treatments such as audible edge lines, roadside protective barriers, shoulder sealing and enhanced signage on regional highways and main roads that have above average run-off road crash risk on a priority safety basis. Main Roads WA is currently identifying roads to be included in these works.

An additional $100,000 has been allocated for planning future works to improve roadside safety on local government managed regional roads.

Community education initiatives on the dangers of fatigue and distracted driving related to run off the road crashes will receive $1.27million.

3. Impaired Driving Crashes ($11.4million or 13 per cent of the 2012-13 budget)

To address the unacceptable level of death and serious injury resulting from crashes involving impaired drivers and riders, funding has been allocated through the RTTA to support WA Police in their efforts to deter and detect drivers affected by alcohol and drugs.

A total of $4million will be spent to significantly enhance the existing level of drink and drug enforcement, including an increase in the number of breath and drug tests per year. The funding will provide an additional 20 police officers to support breath and drug testing activities, equating to an additional 36,800 hours per annum into traffic enforcement, which will assist WA Police to reach an estimated target of one million breath tests in 2012-13.

An additional $900,000 will be spent to expand drug testing capabilities, including the purchase of 20 additional drug testing machines. WA Police will now have a total of 30 testing machines, which will allow them to conduct 19,000 preliminary oral fluid tests per year, a massive 125 per cent increase on current testing levels.

The increase in highly visible random breath and drug testing is expected to gradually change road user behaviour and lead to a decrease in the detection of alcohol and/or illicit drugs used by drivers involved in serious or fatal crashes.

WA Police will also receive $3.5million to update 48 of their vehicles with advanced technology that will read vehicle number plates and will result in every vehicle being read an average of six times per year. This will enable WA Police to target speeding motorists, as well as people with a history of drink and drug driving and drivers who are unlicensed.

WA Police will now have a total of 49 concept cars. The Traffic Enforcement Group will have 21 of these cars, and two vehicles will be provided to each of the following 14 police districts:

Central Metro
East Metro
North West Metro
Peel District
South East Metro
South Metro
West Metro
Great Southern
Goldfields-Esperance
Kimberley
Mid West-Gascoyne
Pilbara
South West
Wheatbelt.

The Concept Car incorporates the following functionality:

Four-way Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) from the vehicle
In-car video and transmission system
Integrated computer based speed detection system
Access to all police tactical and business information systems
Improved multi-application interfaces, including voice management
Improved vehicle power management devices and systems
High visibility vehicle marking
Breath testing equipment.

The ANPR will result in many more inquiries against registration plates than are possible manually. During the past 12 months the trial concept car has regularly checked 1,000-1,200 vehicles per hour, a significant increase over the 250-300 per day performed by manual in-car computers. It is estimated every vehicle in WA will be ‘read’ an average of six times a year once the 49 cars are on the road. This will allow police to use GPS plotted intelligence data in order to identify single and repeat offenders, crime hot spots and offence time trends.

The concept car has a text-to-speech capability that allows for a voice to alert the driver to a stolen vehicle, person of interest, unregistered vehicle or driver and a range of other alerts.

Western Australia will become the first jurisdiction in the world to trial two concept motorbikes, with similar capabilities as the concept car. The motorbikes have the potential to identify speeding motorists, as well as stolen vehicles and persons of interest through Bluetooth and possibly Wi-Fi transmission through the rider’s helmet. Like the concept car, the motorbikes will have video capture and transmission of officer engagements with the public, not only improving officer safety but also enhancing the availability of evidence to the judiciary. All police motorbikes are also equipped with breath testing equipment.

The budget also includes funding for community education campaigns focusing on drink and drug driving in support of the enhanced traffic enforcement.

4. Excess and Inappropriate Speed Crashes ($17.9million or 20 per cent of the 2012-13 budget)

Main Roads WA will receive $2.5million to install electronic school zone signs to decrease vehicle speed near 60 schools. Locations are currently being finalised.

Main Roads will also receive $650,000 to test the feasibility of traffic safety management cameras at a small number of trial sites in WA.

WA Police will receive $2.18million for the Strategic Traffic Enforcement Project, which will enable WA Police to purchase additional effort from police officers through overtime to perform additional traffic operation duties. This will equate to approximately 27,500 hours of additional effort into traffic enforcement.

A community education campaign in support of the speeding program will also be funded.

5. Vehicle Safety, Unprotected Occupants and Users ($3.5million or 4 per cent of the 2012-13 budget)

This budget includes funding for actions which will improve vehicle safety and increase restraint wearing for road users in Western Australia. This includes support of the Australian New Car Assessment Program and Used Car Safety Ratings consumer schemes, work to continually improve the vehicle safety of the government vehicle fleet, including light commercials, community education campaigns to encourage the purchase of safe vehicles and the use of restraints, and workplace road safety programs engaging public and private fleet owners with vehicle safety and road safety messages

6. Inform and Mobilise Actions and Monitor and Report Results ($11.6million or 13 per cent of the 2012-13 budget)

Funding under this budget will be spent on the collection and maintenance of road safety data, research into road safety problems and solutions, monitoring and reporting on road safety performance; sustained communication and promotion of road safety including community and school education; and co-ordination of the administration of the Road Safety Council and the Road Trauma Trust Account.

In support of wider health outcomes, the Department of Health has been allocated $750,000 to establish a road trauma counselling service for victims of road accidents and their families. It is envisioned that the service will predominantly provide peer support, preventative education services, and appropriately-trained trauma and bereavement therapists for victims, their families and friends. A tender process will be initiated by the Department of Health to establish the service through a non-Government organisation.

A total of $1.7million has been allocated to the Neurotrauma Research Program to fund further neurotrauma research, which is hoped will help spinal injury victims of road accidents and other causes in the future. This work is to be assessed by an independent scientific advisory committee endorsed by the Road Safety Council.

Local governments will receive $2.7million to enable them to continue the community involvement and road safety education provided by the Roadwise program state wide.

The School Drug Education and Road Aware program (SDERA) will receive $1.25million to support road safety education in primary and secondary schools throughout the State.

The Department of Health will receive $136,000 for the PARTY program to provide road safety education to secondary students through visiting the emergency trauma centre in hospital.

Date: 13/05/2012

Minister: Johnson

Portfolio: Road Safety

Region: All

WA leading the nation in job creation

Fri, 11 May 2012 02:49:31 GMT

Content:

WA unemployment and youth unemployment rates lowest in nation
Youth unemployment well below national average
State Government’s local industry participation initiatives have helped WA business to secure more than $17.7billion in contracts since July 2011

Commerce Minister Simon O’Brien has welcomed Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) figures showing Western Australia’s youth unemployment fell from 16.2 per cent to 11.8 per cent in April.

WA’s youth unemployment rate was well below the national average of 22.5 per cent, and was in stark contrast to Victoria and South Australia at 26 per cent and 29 per cent respectively.

“The strength of the WA figures relevant to the rest of the nation is proof that Western Australia is the best place to be if you are looking for a job,” Mr O’Brien said.

The Minister said coupled with the State’s drop in the overall unemployment rate to 3.8 per cent (seasonally adjusted) in April, the data demonstrated the success of the State Government’s strategies to increase local content and create more jobs for West Australians.

“These statistics are proof that the unions’ claims that this Government is not doing enough to create local jobs are completely unfounded,” he said.

Initiatives introduced by this Government include the Industry Facilitation and Support Program (IFSP), which offers dollar-for-dollar financial assistance up to $25,000 to eligible small to medium-sized enterprises looking to supply to major resource projects under way in the State.

Mr O’Brien said 56 WA companies had received a share of more than $1.2million under the IFSP to date, with another 16 applications being assessed.

The Minister said despite the improvement in the rate of Western Australia’s youth unemployment, the State Government would continue to work with industry stakeholders on ways of reducing this further.

The Liberal-National Government has invested heavily in workforce development and training and increased the total number of training places, and the number of apprentices and trainees enrolled in training, to record numbers during this term of Government.

Fact File

WA’s unemployment rate fell to 3.8% in April (from 4.1% in March), the lowest level since January 2009 & the lowest of all States
WA’s participation rate stands at 68.9%, the highest of all States and compares to 65.2% nationally
For more information on the State Government’s local industry participation initiatives, visit http://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/ScienceInnovation/Content/About_Us/Key_focus_areas/Local_industry_participation.html

Minister’s office - 6552 5800

Date: 11/05/2012

Minister: O'Brien

Portfolio: Commerce

Region: All

Business plan help for farming families

Mon, 14 May 2012 01:16:52 GMT

Content:

Planning workshops to assist dozens of farm businesses
Opportunity to improve vital financial and planning skills

Up to 200 farming businesses in Western Australia will be able to take part in State Government-funded farm planning and management training in 2012-13.

The ‘Plan, Prepare and Prosper’ workshops, developed under joint State and Federal Government drought reform measures, have already helped more than 940 farm businesses over the past two years.

Agriculture and Food Minister Terry Redman said $2million in State Government funding would enable the Department of Agriculture and Food to deliver a refocused training program.

“This comprehensive business training encourages a shift away from a reactive, crisis management approach dealing with drought, towards farmers being better prepared to cope with climate change,” Mr Redman said.

“The training offers participants the managerial and financial skills to improve decision-making under changing business and climatic conditions.”

The Minister said previous participants had cited a range of benefits including improved work-life balance, risk management strategies and succession planning.

“This new series of ‘Plan, Prepare and Prosper’ workshops will link with other business development programs run by the department including the grains-focussed ‘Planning for Profit’ workshops,” he said.

“The department will tailor the workshops to the specific needs of regions and industries, and will make improvements in response to feedback from previous workshops.

“These training programs are part of a range of activities and tools for farmers in 2012-13 to help them improve profitability and deal with business challenges.”

Farmers interested in undertaking this farm business training should contact the department on freecall number 1800 198 231.

Fact File

The Department of Agriculture and Food has co-ordinated farm planning workshops for more than 940 farm businesses as part of the pilot of Drought Reform Measures

The two-year trial has assisted farmers better manage risks and prepare for future challenges, such as drought

Minister's office - 6552 6700

Date: 14/05/2012

Minister: Redman

Portfolio: Agriculture and Food

Region: All

Nominations open for Good Outcomes Awards

Sun, 13 May 2012 01:02:42 GMT

Content:

Nominations open today for Mental Health Good Outcomes Awards 2012
Awards recognise high level of excellence in mental health
10th anniversary of awards

Nominations have opened for the Mental Health Good Outcomes Awards 2012.

Mental Health Minister Helen Morton said the awards, now in their tenth year, honoured and recognised the exceptional achievements of the State’s mental health sector and celebrated inspiring role models whose activities and contributions have a positive impact on their community.

"Many people contribute enormously to the community every day without wanting or expecting recognition for their efforts," Mrs Morton said.

"I cannot help but be impressed by so many talented, caring, determined and positive people who have faced the challenges of living with mental illness or have helped others on their recovery journey. They need to be acknowledged.

"We are calling on individuals, groups and organisations across government, private and community sectors who have made an outstanding contribution to mental health in Western Australia to nominate anyone they think deserves public recognition."

The awards are co-ordinated by the Mental Health Commission and this year there are 12 categories, four more than in the previous year.

The Minister said the awards encouraged individuals and organisations to continue to strive for excellence in their daily lives and work and enhance the role of the mental health sector in WA.

"I encourage you to apply for the 2012 Health Good Outcomes Awards to show us the great work you do, experience or see and be part of this great program that acknowledges mental health excellence in Western Australia," she said.

The award winners will be announced at the Good Outcomes Awards presentation event, held at The University Club of Western Australia on Tuesday October 9 as part of the WA’s National Mental Health Week celebrations.

Fact File

More than 70 nominations were received for last year’s awards
Nominations close at 5pm on Friday July 30, 2012
Nominations forms are available from the Mental Health Commission’s website http://www.mentalhealth.wa.gov.au/events/awards/categories_mhgoa_.aspx

Minister's office - 6552 6900

Date: 13/05/2012

Minister: Morton

Portfolio: Mental Health

Region: All

National Families Week under way in WA

Sat, 12 May 2012 04:13:49 GMT

Content:

National Families Week celebrated at treasure hunt and community child care centre
Many events taking place across Western Australia

Community Services Minister Robyn McSweeney today marked National Families Week, celebrating the vital role Western Australian families play in the community.

Families across Perth gathered to take part in an outdoor modern-day treasure hunt and at a family fun day in Willetton, doing the most important thing a family can do, spending time together.

“We are lucky in this wonderful State that families have the opportunity to spend time together at places that cost little or nothing to access, including our beautiful parks and beaches,” Mrs McSweeney said.

“I would encourage all WA families to use families’ week as a reason to do an activity together they wouldn’t usually do.”

The Minister said it was important to acknowledge what the family unit means to a community and the crucial role families played in influencing a child’s development and learning.

“Many of a child’s first experiences happen at home, in the surrounds of their family - this is where a child learns, grows and plays,” she said.

“This year’s theme is ‘families make all the difference: helping kids to grow and learn’ and the week is an ideal opportunity for West Australians to think about what their family means to them.”

Parents, children and staff at Willetton Child Care Centre joined Mrs McSweeney for a morning of family fun including face painting, a petting zoo and a sausage sizzle.

The Minister said the Liberal-National Government acknowledged the important role centres such as Willetton played in working with families to build positive early childhood experiences.

“It’s important that day care centres provide a home away from home for young children and are a place where they feel safe and secure,” she said.

“The State Government continues to support community-based child care centres, like Willetton, that recognise the importance of the family unit.”

Earlier in the day, Mrs McSweeney took part in a modern-day treasure hunt, launching National Families Week in Western Australia with a geocaching event in Burswood Park.

National Families Week this year will take place from May 15-21 and is Australia’s premier annual celebration which draws attention to the importance of families.

Fact File

National Families Week taking place from May 15-21, 2012
Events taking place across WA
UN International Day of Families on Tuesday, May 15
For more information, visit http://www.familiesaustralia.org.au/familiesweek

Minister's office - 6552 6500

Date: 12/05/2012

Minister: McSweeney

Portfolio: Community Services

Region: All

State Budget 2012-13: Supporting our community -Better justice for people with intellectual disability

Sat, 12 May 2012 02:12:05 GMT

Content:

Nearly $18m to create declared places for people with intellectual or cognitive disability who are not fit to plead
Major social and legal issue confronting the WA community addressed

The Liberal-National Government will establish Western Australia’s first declared place to house people with intellectual or cognitive disability who have been accused but not convicted of a crime.

In the 2012-13 State Budget, the Government has committed $11.3million over four years to establish two 10-bed disability justice centres and a prison in-reach program in the Perth metropolitan area, with another $6.4million from the Disability Services Commission (DSC).

New legislation will also be introduced to allow the DSC to operate the secure centres, with a focus on rehabilitation and training, in a community, home-like environment.

Disability Services Minister Helen Morton said the key challenge was to find a balance between protecting the community and safeguarding the human rights of people who were among the most vulnerable and disadvantaged in the community.

“Legislation has always allowed for a declared place in WA, but successive governments have avoided dealing with this important social issue that has caused concern across the community until now,” Mrs Morton said.

Based on world’s best practice, the Minister said the specialist centres would be managed and operated by the DSC in close liaison with the Mentally Impaired Accused Review Board to ensure people were suitably placed, regularly reviewed and could return to the community when appropriate.

“In-reach prison support will provide therapeutic interventions and developmental opportunities for people with intellectual disability or cognitive disability who remain in the prison system,” she said.

Attorney General Christian Porter said the Liberal-National Government was the first Government in WA to commit to addressing this issue.

“This initiative is a significant milestone for the management and housing of people with intellectual or cognitive disabilities who are not fit to plead,” Mr Porter said.

Fact File

Locations will be announced after community awareness is complete
2 centres will allow for flexible management of people of different ages, gender and culture, each with differing support needs
Centres will be culturally appropriate and provide services for people with varying needs, including high-level support

Minister's office - 6552 6900

Date: 12/05/2012

Minister: Porter;Morton

Portfolio: Disability Services;Attorney General

Region: All

Local designers on Singapore fashion mission

Sat, 12 May 2012 01:10:06 GMT

Content:

WA delegation to visit Audi Fashion Festival and Blueprint Trade Show
Visit will help connect emerging designers and international buyers
Another example of burgeoning WA-Singaporean relationship

A delegation of some of WA’s most outstanding designers and fashion industry professionals will attend this year’s prestigious Asia Fashion Exchange (AFX) in Singapore.

Culture and Arts Minister John Day said the Department of Culture and the Arts (DCA) would provide $20,000 to support the delegation from Western Australia to the Audi Fashion Festival and the Blueprint Trade Show to see designs by Thierry Mugler, Zac Posen and Raoul.

“Singapore offers significant opportunities for the State’s arts and cultural sector and the delegation will be looking for opportunities for WA designers to take part in future AFX events,” Mr Day said.

“The recent opening of the WA Trade Office in Singapore underlines the importance of WA-Singaporean relations and the Government is keen to identify practical measures to build on this relationship.”

“The decision to send a delegation to Singapore follows talks between the DCA, Perth Fashion Festival and the AFX,” he said.

“The delegation comprises emerging designer One Fell Swoop, internationally renowned WA fashion designer Aurelio Costarella, and representatives from the Perth Fashion Festival and the department’s designer fashion program.

The Minister said an AFX delegation attended last year’s Perth Fashion Festival with the result that the PFF was invited to participate in the 2012 Blueprint Trade Show, one of the AFXs four major fashion events.

“Emerging WA designer duo One Fell Swoop has been selected to show a collection in Blueprint, a trade show connecting emerging designers with international buyers.

“They recently won the Most Innovative Designer Award at Perth Fashion Festival’s WA Fashion Awards and their business is at a point where they will be able to maximise the benefits from this opportunity in both the local and international markets.”

Aurelio Costarella will observe the AFX and offer an opinion from an industry perspective about the future potential of the event.

Fact File

Funding of $20,000 will be provided by the Govt to cover travel/accommodation costs
For more information: http://www.audifashionfestival.com

Minister's office - 6552 6200

Date: 12/05/2012

Minister: Day

Portfolio: Culture and the Arts

Region: All

Final management plan released for Shark Bay

Fri, 11 May 2012 07:15:49 GMT

Content:

Plan to guide Shark Bay management for next 10 years
Includes a series of upgrades and new visitor facilities

A new plan to guide the management of Western Australia’s magnificent World Heritage-listed Shark Bay area was released today.

Environment Minister Bill Marmion said the Shark Bay Terrestrial Reserves and Proposed Reserve Additions Management Plan 2012 set out a strategy for the next 10 years.

“Shark Bay is one of the State’s most biologically significant areas. It is also a tourism hotspot attracting more than 115,000 visitors a year,” he said.

“The natural, cultural and social values found in Shark Bay offer a range of nature-based tourism and recreation opportunities for visitors who are attracted to the remote and natural qualities of the area.

“The area’s diverse features and attractions include the internationally-renowned dolphins at Monkey Mia Reserve; Dirk Hartog Island National Park, where Europeans first landed in Western Australia; Steep Point, which is mainland Australia’s western-most point; Francois Peron National Park; and Shell Beach Conservation Park.

“The final management plan includes a series of upgrades and new visitor facilities for nature-based activities and also outlines strategies to manage the area’s landforms and flora and fauna, including threatened species on the islands and peninsulas.”

The management plan replaces the current Shark Bay Terrestrial Reserves Management Plan 2000-2009 and copies of the new plan are available at the Department of Environment and Conservation’s (DEC) Geraldton and Denham offices or online at http://www.dec.wa.gov.au/landmanagementplanning.

Fact File

The natural heritage of the area makes it one of only 19 sites in the world that meet all four natural criteria for World Heritage listing
The new management plan will see the area of land set aside as reserves in the region increase from 125,000ha to 520,000ha
DEC prepared the plan on behalf of the Conservation Commission of WA in consultation with the local community and stakeholders

Minister’s office - 6552 6800

Date: 11/05/2012

Minister: Marmion

Portfolio: Environment

Region: Gascoyne

Shark Bay marine and nature services boosted

Fri, 11 May 2012 07:07:50 GMT

Content:

$8.5million building to boost services to the Denham community
Shared facility improves management of important WA fishing and tourist area
Local marine rescue volunteers get new emergency operations base

A purpose-built facility to deliver better services to protect, regulate and manage Western Australia’s Shark Bay marine area was officially opened today in Denham.

Fisheries Minister Norman Moore and Environment Minister Bill Marmion opened the new $8.5million building that will be shared by the departments of Fisheries and Environment and Conservation (DEC) and local marine rescue volunteers.

Mr Moore said the new facility would support improved management, compliance and education services to local residents and the thousands of tourists who visited Denham.

“Co-location of Fisheries and DEC will reduce costs and duplication of similar activities and these better facilities will support officers from both agencies who deliver licensing services and marine park information, as well as general information, brochures and guides promoting appropriate behaviour in the marine and terrestrial environments of Shark Bay,” he said.

“The new facility provides a good vantage point to the waterfront and jetty area for Fisheries officers to monitor boating activity and improve compliance effectiveness.”

The new building will also become a new base for the local marine rescue volunteers.

“Marine rescue is a perfect fit with the government agencies that have vessels and experienced staff at call during marine emergencies, ensuring confidence for local recreational and commercial fishers and for other aquatic activities in this important fishing and tourist area,” Mr Moore said.

Environment Minister Bill Marmion said co-operation of the region’s DEC and Fisheries’ staff had led to highly successful joint servicing arrangements for Shark Bay Marine Park.

“The marine park and, in particular, sanctuary zones are subject to an extensive compliance program across both agencies. The successful joint servicing arrangements are so well regarded they are a model for other marine parks in the State,” Mr Marmion said.

DEC would also have a better base to deliver the new management plan for the area, which will guide how terrestrial conservation reserves will be managed in Shark Bay for the next 10 years, and to support science and education in the region.

The opening of the Knight Terrace building coincided with Denham’s annual Fishing Fiesta.

Fact File

For information on the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, visit http://www.sharkbay.wa.gov.au/world-heritage/
Shark Bay attracts more than 115,000 visits every year

Fisheries Minister's office - 6552 5400

Environment Minister's office - 6552 6800

Date: 11/05/2012

Minister: Moore;Marmion

Portfolio: Fisheries;Environment

Region: Gascoyne

New mobile breast screen unit for Mandurah

Fri, 11 May 2012 04:53:19 GMT

Content:

First of four new mobile digital mammogram units for regional WA opened
Additional three to be rolled out over coming months
The units will visit 97 locations across regional and remote WA over the next two years

The first of four new state-of-the-art mobile digital mammogram units has been opened today in Mandurah by Health Minister Kim Hames.

Dr Hames said the additional three units would be opened in coming months, ultimately resulting in visits to 97 locations across regional and remote Western Australia over the next two years.

“The use of digital technology in mobile units is expected to reduce unnecessary recalls following initial mammograms, enable faster test results and enhance the screening experience for women,” he said.

The units were part of joint funding from the Federal Government, which contributed $13.4million through the Health and Hospital Fund and the State Government, which contributed $800,000 through its Medical Equipment Replacement Program.

The funding has also resulted in the installation of 16 new digital mammography machines in Perth clinics.

The Mandurah unit will remain on-site until December this year.

“The new mobile screening units will also offer improved accessibility for wheelchair users and people who are mobility impaired thanks to the inclusion of an automated wheelchair lift and an improved internal layout,” the Minister said.

“The sobering fact is that nearly 250 women die from breast cancer each year in WA and one in nine Australian women is at risk of developing the disease in their lifetime.

“The best way to reduce the number of deaths from the disease is to detect and treat breast cancer as early as possible.”

Fact File

BreastScreen WA is a free screening service for women aged over 40 who do not have any breast symptoms
The program specifically targets women aged 50 to 69 years who are encouraged to have a mammogram every two years
Women of all ages who have a concern about a breast symptom should visit their GP

Minister’s office - 6552 5300

Date: 11/05/2012

Minister: Hames

Portfolio: Health

Region: Peel

WA’s mackerel fishers given greater security

Fri, 11 May 2012 04:24:47 GMT

Content:

Commercial mackerel fishery secures sustainable future
Mackerel fishers gain more secure access rights under 48 licences
The Mackerel Managed Fishery extends from the NT border to Cape Leeuwin

Western Australia’s Mackerel Managed Fishery has been transferred to full management after seven years under interim management.

Fisheries Minister Norman Moore said 48 licences had been granted, providing more secure access rights.

“The State’s Mackerel Fishery is part of WA’s success story of sustainable fisheries and world-leading eco-system based management,” Mr Moore said.

“I am working to ensure there is a constant and dependable supply of fresh fish for consumers and it is important to know that our State’s fisheries can do that in a sustainable way.

“The quota-managed Mackerel Fishery is fully sustainable, which is important for the operators who target the narrow-barred Spanish mackerel and grey mackerel species that are also popular among recreational fishers.”

WA’s Mackerel Fishery has been an interim managed fishery since 2004 and the move towards full management came after almost two years of consultation involving the Department of Fisheries, permit holders and the WA Fishing Industry Council.

The Minister said a fully-managed fishery not only strengthened access rights for its commercial fishers, but afforded licence holders a greater level of flexibility to manage their fishing businesses.

“The arrangements for the fully-managed fishery have come after extensive consultation with the permit holders from the interim managed mackerel fishery, as well as the peak bodies for the commercial and recreational fishing sectors,” he said.

The Mackerel Managed Fishery mainly operates in Kimberley, Pilbara and Gascoyne waters and is monitored through the Department of Fisheries’ Vessel Monitoring System. The management plan details conditions for the licensed operators.

Fact File

More about the Mackerel Fishery management plan is online at http://www.fish.wa.gov.au
Arrangements for the fully-managed fishery took effect on January 1, 2012
The application period for licensing closed at the end of February

Minister’s office - 6552 5400

Date: 11/05/2012

Minister: Moore

Portfolio: Fisheries

Region: All

State Budget 2012-13: Building the State - $80million redevelopment for Willetton SHS

Fri, 11 May 2012 02:36:31 GMT

Content:

New and redeveloped facilities for WA’s largest public secondary school
Rapidly increasing student population putting pressure on current facilities
School features regularly in top 20 table, based on academic achievement

Premier Colin Barnett and Education Minister Liz Constable today announced a major redevelopment of one of Western Australia’s biggest and best performing secondary schools.

Willetton Senior High School, which was named WA Secondary School of the Year in the WA Education Awards 2011, will receive $32.5million worth of new and redeveloped facilities in the State Budget 2012-13 for the first stage of works, expected to be completed in 2015, and the commencement of a second stage from 2016.

Mr Barnett said the State Government was looking at a long-term plan for the school which could see up to $80million spent to provide a 21st century learning environment to better meet the needs of some of WA’s most able students.

“This school, built in the 1970s, has been growing rapidly, with 1,736 students enrolled in semester one this year, making it the biggest public secondary school in WA,” he said.

“Significant areas of the school need refreshing, so that the increasing number of students learning here can benefit from contemporary learning facilities.”

Willetton Senior High School, which became an Independent Public School in 2011, is one of WA’s very best performing public schools and features regularly in the annual list of the top 20 schools based on results in WA Certificate of Education (WACE) courses.

“Stage one will provide for the construction of a new science block suited to the high standard of science education at the school, complete with the most up-to-date science and technology equipment, more laboratories and a dedicated planning area for staff,” the Premier said.

“It will also provide permanent classrooms to maintain and enhance student learning programs, and gifted and talented facilities, relieving the need for transportable classrooms.

“From 2015 we will begin to look at stage two facilities with a view to redeveloping the current library, mathematics and administration buildings.

“While we are looking to invest up to $80million in this school, full costs are indicative at this stage to enable the Department of Education to undertake further planning work with the school and community.”

Dr Constable praised principal Chris Booth and his staff for forging an outstanding reputation for Willetton Senior High School, based on consistently high student achievement in both academic and vocational education.

“Last year, 11 public school students won General Exhibitions from the Curriculum Council, which are awarded to the top 40 WACE students, and incredibly, five of them came from Willetton Senior High School,” Dr Constable said.

“The number of students achieving a Vocational Education Training qualification has also risen from 35 to 173 in just four years.

“Teachers and students have been doing a wonderful job in these ageing facilities. It is essential all students have the best possible environment in which to learn.

“This is particularly important because in 2015, year 7 will become the first year of secondary education, with students benefiting from the specialist expertise of teaching staff and the outstanding facilities and technology available in our secondary schools.

“However, we are very conscious that any building program in a working school must consider the interests of current staff and students, so the redevelopment program will be planned with the school community, to ensure that we keep any disruption to teaching and learning to an absolute minimum.

“Construction will begin next year, and an architect will be appointed shortly to begin detailed design and planning work in consultation with the school community.”

Fact File

The State Govt spent $3.978billion on educating WA students this financial year
About $850million was provided for education asset investment this year

Premier’s office - 6552 5000

Education Minister’s office - 6552 5700

Date: 11/05/2012

Minister: Barnett;Constable

Portfolio: Premier;Education

Region: South Western Suburbs

WA families to enjoy modern-day treasure hunt

Fri, 11 May 2012 02:19:44 GMT

Content:

Families Week launches with geocaching treasure hunt
Adventurous WA families encouraged to come to Burswood playground on Saturday, May 12 at 9.30am

Community Services Minister Robyn McSweeney will strap on her treasure-hunting shoes tomorrow morning and join more than 200 people taking part in a modern-day treasure hunt.

The geocaching hunt at Burswood Park playground marks the start of 2012 National Families Week and combines technology with outdoor adventure, and Western Australian families are encouraged to take part.

Geocaching is an outdoor treasure hunt where participants use a smart phone or dedicated GPS receiver as a compass to search for geocache ‘treasures’ hidden at various locations.

There are more than 4,500 geocaches hidden all over Perth, but specific coordinates for tomorrow’s Geocaching Fun Morning will be provided on GPS devices lent to families.

“Geocaching is a great activity for families to enjoy outdoors together and with thousands of geocaches located across the city, there is a geocache located within walking distance of most homes, and families only need an adventurous spirit and a smart phone to take part,” Mrs McSweeney said.

“It can be a challenge for families to find space in their busy schedules to spend time together and to ensure children have enough time outdoors and away from computer and TV screens.

“There is so much to be gained from outdoor play, including stimulating the imagination, sharpening the senses and reconnecting with nature. I encourage all families across the State to find a way to celebrate Families’ Week together outdoors, whether it is geocaching or going for a bike ride, a swim at the beach or just simply a walk down to the local park.”

The geocaching event is being run by the Department for Communities in partnership with the Department of Sport and Recreation and Nature Play WA to celebrate National Families Week.

Fact File

The Geocaching fun morning starts at 9.30am on May 12 at Burswood Park playground
Places are limited
To register: http://www.trybooking.com/BJLK (a $10 non-refundable deposit is required)
For more information on Families Week Geocaching Fun Morning go to: http://www.communities.wa.gov.au
National Families Week runs May 15-21, 2012
Families not attending the event can enjoy geocaching in their own time at any location. For more information go to http://www.geocaching.com
There are more than 1.7 million geocaches hidden around the world

Minister’s office - 6552 6500

Date: 11/05/2012

Minister: McSweeney

Portfolio: Community Services

Region: All