| Joint media statement - Drought Resilience Grants to revitalise Southern Rangelands | 84578 | Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements | | | | 416 | | 0 | html | 21/03/2023 7:23:54 AM | 2023-03-21T07:15:00Z | Grants for six innovative projects to rejuvenate the rangelands and improve livestock profitability McGowan Government working with pastoralists and the Albanese Government to restore the landscape and build business resilience A cutting-edge project using ag-tech and data to rehabilitate the landscape and strengthen a Mount Magnet pastoral business is among six recipients to receive inaugural Southern Rangelands Revitalisation Drought Resilience Grants. The $2 million grants program is backed equally by the McGowan Government's Agriculture Climate Resilience Fund and the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund - Resilient Soils and Landscape program. Debbie and Ashley Dowden from Challa Station will use their $146,880 grant to install virtual fencing, trap yards and biodiversity monitors to improve groundcover and biodiversity through regenerative grazing. The grant will also be invested in earthworks and a native seed nursery to improve perennial vegetation and rehabilitate degraded areas. Other recipients will use grants to decentralise watering points and establish a grass nursery, erect exclusion fencing for revegetation, install trap yards and remote water monitoring to reduce grazing pressure and explore the use of lick feeders to aid feed management. The projects emerged from the ground-breaking Southern Rangelands Revitalisation Pilot, where participants worked collectively to develop pathways to revive rangeland condition, increase livestock profitability and build business resilience. The initiatives reflect fresh approaches to pastoral production, with experiences and learnings from the pioneering projects to be shared with peers in coming field days and workshops. For a list of the grant recipients and more information on the Southern Rangelands Revitalisation Drought Resilience Grants program visit http//www.agric.wa.gov.au/southernrangelands Quotes attributed to Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Murray Watt "We know many farmers in WA have experienced dry conditions and more are likely to be on the way. That's why both levels of Government have been working together to get WA agriculture in the best possible position. "We want farmers and communities to be better prepared to withstand the pressures of drought in the future. "There are some great WA ideas that embrace new technology and will help farmers right across the country, and I'm very pleased the Albanese Government can work with the McGowan Government to deliver support for WA's ag sector. Quotes attributed to Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis "These Drought Resilience Grants are part of the McGowan and Albanese Government's support for pastoralists to enhance landscape condition, capture carbon opportunities and improve their businesses. "I am impressed by the innovative projects to revitalise the land condition of the southern rangelands, while at the same time embracing new technology and management strategies to boost livestock production. "For example, Debbie and Ashley Dowden are great champions of sustainable land management, with their Human Induced Regeneration Carbon Project, and this grant will help take their operation to the next level, enabling others to learn from their experiences. "The Southern Rangelands Revitalisation Pilot has been a great initiative, where participants have talked over land management challenges and explored new ways of doing business and enduring solutions that build a strong future for the next generation." WA Agriculture and Food Minister's office - 6552 6200 Southern Rangelands Revitalisation Drought Resilience Grants recipients Station Region Grant Project Challa Station Murchison $146,880 Virtual fencing, trap yards and biodiversity monitors to improve groundcover and biodiversity through regenerative grazing, alongside ground works and a native seed nursery to improve perennial vegetation and rehabilitate degraded areas. Wooleen Murchison $88,364 Implement an ecological rest-based grazing system to rotate cattle, supported by a centralised tank, pipelines and water points, and irrigated grass nurseries to re-introduce plants at free water points. Murchison House Murchison $150,000 Land recovery to improve revegetation and ground cover by total grazing management, with exclusion fencing and a mustering race/linear trap yard, equipped with remote gates, monitoring, and additional water points. Dairy Creek Gascoyne $79,009 Implement rotational grazing with trap yards and remote water monitoring to control total grazing pressure, support regeneration of perennials and improve cattle management through drought. Carey Downs Gascoyne $93,760 Introduce rangelands self herding strategies with paddock fencing, trap yards and lick feeders to move cattle, alongside earthworks to rehabilitate degraded areas. Hillview Murchison $93,760 Fencing to aid total grazing pressure management and earthworks to regenerate groundcover and slow landscape water flow. | |
| A wave of change as surfing events focus on mental health | 84577 | Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements | | | | 548 | | 0 | html | 21/03/2023 7:02:11 AM | 2023-03-21T07:00:00Z | Surfing WA and World Surf League to work with the McGowan Government through Healthway to support Western Australian's mental health and wellbeing at its events This includes the world-renowned Margaret River Pro and Surfing WA's young surfer's programs For the first time, the McGowan Government will work with the World Surf League and Surfing WA to support Western Australian's mental health and wellbeing at surfing events over the next two years. The surfing events include one of the most watched international events on the World Surf League's Championship Tour calendar, the Margaret River Pro. Surfing WA's programs and events that will support young surfers' mental health include the Pathway to the Pro Series, Statewide Learn to Surf Programs, WA School Surfing Titles, All Boardrider Clubs and Affiliated Surf Schools, and an Indigenous Leadership Program. State Government funding of nearly $700,000 will be used by these surfing organisations to strengthen community mental health and wellbeing. Staff will also receive mental health first aid training, and high-profile athlete event ambassadors will be present to promote positive mental health and wellbeing. In addition, the Think Mental Health message will be promoted at the surfing events. Comments attributed to Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson "The State Government's partnership with the World Surf League and Surfing WA provides a fantastic platform to create positive mental health and wellbeing at a community, State, national, and international level. "These partnerships allow us to directly engage with the surfing community and younger generations on how to proactively look after our mental health. "Both organisations have a genuine commitment to making a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of Western Australians, and we look forward to the positive community health outcomes these partnerships will bring." Comments attributed to Sports and Recreation Minister David Templeman "This is a fantastic partnership and one that will benefit young people in particular. "Sport is a wonderful tool to have in your mental health first aid toolbox as we all know that being active, being part of something bigger than ourselves and committing to something is not only fun, but also psychologically beneficial." Minister's office - 6552 5900 | |
| True Sport a game changer for WA sport sector | 84576 | Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements | | | | 656 | | 0 | html | 21/03/2023 6:01:12 AM | 2023-03-21T06:00:00Z | SportWest awarded $444,408 to develop and deliver True Sport The initiative aims to support industry, government and community objectives Focus on enriching culture and values across community sport in WA The McGowan Government has awarded SportWest more than $440,000 to develop an initiative that invests in the future of the Western Australian sport sector. SportWest's True Sport initiative will enable a cohesive, all sport approach that will align values and cultures for sport delivery across WA and enrich the sporting experience for all participants. Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman today joined SportWest Chief Executive Officer Matt Fulton to announce the funding partnership with the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC). True Sport is a contemporary approach that recognises and supports the changing landscape of sport delivery and will continue to evolve, guided by the needs of the industry. The initiative is specifically designed for the industry, by the industry to enrich the sport experience in WA. For more information visit www.sportwest.com.au Comments attributed to Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman "True Sport will be a game changer for the industry and SportWest is uniquely positioned to deliver the initiative with their links to government, industry and community organisations. "A recent social return on investment study commissioned by SportWest confirmed that the gross benefit of organised sport in Western Australia each year is $10.3 billion – it is a growing industry which requires the supports and structures in place to allow it to thrive. "Additionally, sport delivery and participation is ever changing with increased expectations and pressures on limited resources. "Through DLGSC funding True Sport, the McGowan Government is supporting the sector that continues to provide the setting where Western Australians have the opportunity to develop life skills, build resilience, establish friendships and have fun, while strengthening our communities." Minister's office - 6552 5400 | |
| Driver training puts young construction workers on road to success | 84575 | Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements | | | | 869 | | 0 | html | 21/03/2023 1:33:50 AM | 2023-03-21T01:30:00Z | McGowan Government delivering $1.26 million Driver's Licence Training Support Program to get more young people into the construction industry Access to a driver's licence has been identified as a key barrier to apprenticeship employment Program builds on McGowan Government's commitment to boost construction workforce A new driver's licence training initiative is removing barriers for young people training in the building and construction industry as part of the McGowan Government's efforts to get more workers into construction. The Construction Training Fund's $1.26 million Driver's Licence Training Support Program gives students the opportunity to obtain a driver's licence while ensuring apprentices entering the construction workforce are job ready. A driver's licence is a key requirement for many construction roles. Access to a driver's licence was identified as a key barrier to apprenticeship employment for young people at the State Government's 2021 Skills Summit. The pilot program offers standard driver training and supervision to help participants gain a valid Western Australian driver's licence. In addition, specialised training for driving in a construction environment, such as towing, safe management of vehicle loads, vehicle maintenance and driving in the sand will assist young people to develop awareness and skills in road safety and vehicle management. The program complements the McGowan Government's $10 million Driver Access and Equity program, which helps disadvantaged drivers to get their licence, particularly in regional and remote areas. The Driver's Licence Training Support Program will be available to 120 students, with 18 students currently participating in the first cohort. The initiative is open to Year 11 and 12 students in the Construction Training Fund Scholarship Program, to supplement their pre-apprenticeship training. For more information visit https//ctf.wa.gov.au/construction-futures/students/drivers-licence-support-program Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan "My Government is committed to giving apprentices every opportunity to succeed in their chosen profession and creating a pipeline of skilled workers now and into the future. "By helping construction industry trainees to get their driver's licence, we're providing practical support that will remove barriers to employment while helping to boost the workforce. "This important initiative is putting apprentices in the driver's seat - ensuring they're job ready when they complete their training." Comments attributed to Training Minister Simone McGurk "It's often said learning to drive gives us the keys to freedom - but for many young workers getting a driver's licence is also the key to employment. It can be truly life changing. "The mobile nature of construction work makes having a driver's licence a necessity for most roles - and as a Government we want to remove any barriers that prevent people from entering the industry. "This initiative gives young workers starting out in building and construction valuable life skills, ensuring they're ready to hit the ground running when they complete their training." Comments attributed to Transport Minister Rita Saffioti "Having a driver's licence opens so many doors for a young person with more education, training and employment opportunities. "This program complements our existing $10 million Driving Access and Equity Program, which is already delivering great outcomes in a number of regions across the State. "Since the Driving Access and Equity Program began in the Kimberley and Pilbara regions roughly 12 months ago, hundreds of disadvantaged people have either received a driver's licence or their learners permit, and with program expanding into other regions, that number will continue to grow." Premier's office - 6552 5000 Training Minister's office -6552 6600 Transport Minister's office - 6552 5500 | |
| Demolition makes way for prime North Beach site revitalisation | 84574 | Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements | | | | 988 | | 0 | html | 21/03/2023 12:27:03 AM | 2023-03-21T00:00:00Z | North Beach residential redevelopment to deliver new social housing dwellings Tender open for demolition of North Beach site to make way for a revitalised precinct Site well located near beach, transport, schools, public open space and other amenities A derelict and ageing former public housing site in North Beach is set for demolition to make way for an Urban Renewal Project set to revitalise and improve the precinct in a boost to the State's housing supply. The North Beach Urban Renewal Project has involved a long-term program of work, including the relocation of existing tenants and homeowners, which has been a complex undertaking. As part of this process, the Department of Communities has negotiated and settled with the last remaining private property owner on the purchase of their property, ensuring the Department owns 100 percent of the site, before the project can begin. Originally developed more than 40 years ago, the site contained a mix of 45 ageing public housing dwellings, including three single houses, 36 townhouses and six vacant lots. A tender for demolition of the site has opened today, Tuesday 21 March https//www.tenders.wa.gov.au Demolition and site preparation works are anticipated to be completed by mid-to-late 2023. Upon completion of the demolition and siteworks, the 2 ha site on Cromer Way will be released to the market, and will include a mix of social, affordable and private housing to revitalise the site. The community housing sector and development industry will then be invited to express their interest in developing the site to achieve a residential development which will improve the quality, affordability, diversity and amenity of housing stock in the suburb. Comments attributed to Housing Minister John Carey "The North Beach site is an example of some of the challenges we face with ageing and inappropriate social housing stock. "At major social housing sites like in North Beach, we have to navigate the impacts of large enclaves of social housing and ageing stock, and make decisions based on whether the significant cost of refurbishment outweighs the cost of re-building. "Sites like this have created issues in the past, including anti-social behaviour, which is why we are now tendering for its demolition to make way for a new vibrant precinct to be delivered. "I have been on the public record stating that some difficult decisions had to be made by our Government regarding ageing and inappropriate housing stock – this is one of those decisions. "This Government inherited ageing stock, which requires significant investment to lengthen its time frame and our Government has been moving to an integrated model of public housing across a number of suburbs. "My message is clear we're using every lever we can, to bolster the supply of social housing – including through urban renewal projects like this one in North Beach. "The Cromer Way site is close to nature reserves, several schools, shops, sporting amenities and just down the road from the beach. "This is all part of our Government's reforms – which includes a record $2.4 billion investment in social housing and homelessness measures over four years, which will oversee the delivery of about 3,300 social dwellings along with refurbishment and maintenance to thousands of others." Comments attributed to Scarborough MLA Stuart Aubrey "It's great to see the Cromer Way, North Beach site revitalisation is the latest project being progressed by the McGowan Government to provide more housing options including social and affordable living to the local community. "North Beach is an incredible location, in close proximity to many desirable amenities, and once the renewal project has been completed, it will enable more people to call Scarborough home." Minister's office - 6552 5300 | |
| Total Solar Eclipse preparations to leave lasting legacy | 84572 | Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements | | | | 1026 | | 0 | html | 20/03/2023 9:02:30 AM | 2023-03-20T09:00:00Z | Exmouth Town Beach upgrade unveiled one month before 2023 Total Solar Eclipse Key legacy item partly funded by McGowan Government's $22 million commitment to prepare region for tens of thousands of visitors Roads, telecommunications and infrastructure also bolstered The stage has been set for the 2023 Solar Eclipse with upgrades to Exmouth's Town Beach unveiled a month out from the rare astronomical event. Completed in two phases with support from the McGowan Government and Shire of Exmouth, the development boasts several new features including shade structures, boardwalk decking, fencing, irrigation, lawns, a drinking fountain and waste facilities. As the setting for the Dark Sky Festival highlight, First Lights Nyinggulu, a drone show celebrating the ancient dreaming story of the eclipse told by Traditional Owners, the location will be a drawcard for the town during the eclipse period and for visitors in the future. With tens of thousands of visitors expected over the event period in the region, final preparations are underway and progressing well. Representatives from 14 State Government agencies have been working in partnership with local government and the Department of Defence to ensure communities in the region, including businesses, are supported for the event. The McGowan Government's investment of almost $22 million in announced funding is helping provide a safe and enjoyable event for all with upgrades and improvements to roads, marine infrastructure, telecommunication networks and local facilities. The contribution will also provide a lasting legacy for the region, which is one of our fastest growing and most popular tourist destinations and features in our successful global tourism campaign - Walking on a Dream. Upgrades include $7.8 million committed to traffic management and infrastructure upgrades in preparation for motorists travelling to and across the region including $1.9 million to fund rest area upgrades on the Minilya-Exmouth Road; An investment of $5.4 million dollars into telecommunications including new mobile base stations and the upgrade of base stations across the region; and A commitment of over $3.9 million for a new temporary 6 million litre water tank to be erected at the Welch St Campsite in Exmouth along with the installation of permanent water infrastructure. Financial Assistance Agreements between the McGowan Government and Shires of Exmouth, Carnarvon and Onslow have also assisted readiness, including Almost $1.6 million provided to the Shire of Exmouth to support the development and running of the Welch St Campsite to accommodate visitors; $90,000 to the Shire of Exmouth to facilitate waste management to help protect the pristine environment; Eight different projects across Carnarvon and Coral Bay including upgrading the Carnarvon Visitor Centre, new car parking in both towns and the refurbishment of existing Coral Bay ablutions, water fill and sewerage disposal points for caravans and campers; Additional funding for upgrades to Town Beach Playground in Carnarvon and the development of the 2023 April Rocks Carnarvon event and the delivery of a sculpture for the community; and Upgrades to Ocean View Caravan Park in Onslow and overflow camping. The Western Australian Government also implemented the Local Capability Fund round to support local Gascoyne and Pilbara businesses helping prepare for the event on 20 April with funding available up to a maximum $25,000 per application. Forty businesses successfully applied for the grants totalling more than $837,000. The solar eclipse will occur over a three-hour period, with totality in Exmouth occurring at approximately 1129 AM (AWST) 20 April when the sun, moon and Earth align. Exmouth is located in the path of a 100 per cent solar eclipse, which is the best land-based location in the world to view the event. There will also be near total eclipses across the region, Onslow and Coral Bay will experience 99 per cent darkness while Carnarvon will enjoy about a 95 per cent eclipse. To find out more about the 2023 Solar Eclipse and the Dark Sky Festival, visit the Ningaloo Eclipse website. Comments attributed to Tourism Minister Roger Cook "This event is a rare opportunity to showcase WA to the world as a premium tourism and astro tourism destination and we are working hard to help make it a safe and enjoyable experience. "While the phenomenon on 20 April is the main event, there is lots happening in the region. "Those heading to the region for the eclipse should plan and prepare for their visit now." Comments attributed to Regional Development Minister Don Punch "The countdown is well and truly on with only one month to go to the 2023 Solar Eclipse. "While the moment of totality during the eclipse is 62 seconds, the announcement of over $22 million committed from the WA Government to this event provides a legacy for the region lasting for years to come." Tourism Minister's office - 6552 6500 Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 6900 | |
| Members appointed to new Advisory Group on homelessness | 84571 | Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements | | | | 1838 | | 0 | html | 21/03/2023 10:04:07 AM | 2023-03-20T06:00:00Z | Diverse community and Government sector experts and leaders appointed to new Housing First Homelessness Advisory Group Part of McGowan Government's homelessness reforms 11 women and six men represent client groups including Aboriginal people, people with disability, seniors and youth Advisory Group will guide and support the implementation of All Paths Lead to Home Western Australia's 10-Year Strategy on Homelessness 2020-2030 The McGowan Government has appointed 17 respected community and Government leaders, experts and people with lived experience to the new Housing First Homelessness Advisory Group. As part of the McGowan Government's homeless reforms, the new advisory group sees the consolidation of a number of homeless working groups into a single Housing First Advisory Group to the Minister, focusing on Housing First approaches to reduce rough sleeping. The Housing First Homelessness Advisory Group is made up of 11 women and six men, who have expertise from a range of areas including tenancy law, front line support services, local government and Community Housing Organisations. The membership also includes people with personal or family lived experience of homelessness and those who deliver or have delivered services in regional and remote areas of Western Australia. The Group will support and guide implementation of All Paths Lead to a Home Western Australia's 10-Year Strategy on Homelessness 2020-30 (Strategy). It will provide advice to the Minister for Homelessness about reforms towards a Housing First and No Wrong Door approach across the homelessness sector, including addressing barriers in the system. The Group, which will meet quarterly, will be chaired by Mr Mike Rowe, Director-General of Communities. The 16 other members are Mr Andrew Brien, Chief Executive Officer, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder; Ms Bettina (Tina) Ugle, Managing Director, Noongar Mia Mia; Ms Cath Hart, Chief Executive Officer, Real Estate Institute of Western Australia; Ms Corina Martin, Chief Executive Officer, Aboriginal Family Legal Service; Mr Daniel Morrison, Chief Executive Officer, Wungening Aboriginal Corporation; Mr David Pearson, Executive Officer, WA Alliance to End Homelessness and Chief Executive Officer, Australian Alliance to End Homelessness; Ms Debra Zanella, Chief Executive Officer, Ruah Community Services; Mr Jonathon Lake, Design Leader, Gresley Abas Architects; Ms Jude Thomas, Director Place and Community, City of Mandurah; Ms Kath Snell, Chief Executive Officer, Shelter WA; Ms Kim Robinson, Program Support Officer Social Policy, WACOSS; Ms Louise Olney, Director Building Communities, Minderoo Foundation; Mr Michael Chester, Co-Chief Executive Officer, Uniting WA; Ms Natalie Sangalli, General Manager, Housing Choices Western Australia Ltd; Ms Samantha Drury, Chief Executive Officer St Bartholomew's House (St Bart's); and Ms Sharon Gough, Chief Executive Officer, Indigo Junction. Other homeless reforms introduced by the McGowan Government include assisting a further 100 rough sleepers into 100 social homes in a supported landlord model in partnership with Housing Choices; acquisition of the 30-room former Murray Street Hotel, to be transformed into low barrier, supported accommodation for people sleeping rough in the Perth CBD; and ongoing work towards the consolidation of multiple outreach services into a single service. The East Perth Common Ground tender process closed on 8 February 2023 and the evaluation process is currently underway, with the 100 homes supported landlord initiative to provide an interim response to homeless accommodation during this process. For more information about the Housing First Homelessness Advisory Group visit the Department of Communities https//www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-communities/housing-first-homelessness-advisory-group Comments attributed to Housing and Homelessness Minister John Carey "The formation of the new Housing First Homelessness Advisory Group is a strong, positive initiative, bringing together a number of the State's key leaders and experts to provide advice on the delivery of our homelessness reforms. "The Advisory Group will work in a coordinated and focused way to ensure our reforms outlined in All Paths Lead to Home Western Australia's 10-Year Strategy on Homelessness 2020-2030 are fully implemented. "This Government is focused on delivering a Housing First approach that is evidence-based and provides tangible long-term outcomes. "We have a clear focus to assist people sleeping rough and give them access to appropriate accommodation and intensive wrap-around supports to enable them to transition into long-term housing options. "The Strategy is evidence based and was co-designed with State and local government agencies, community service providers, people with lived experience and local communities. "Our Government is investing $2.4 billion in housing and homelessness services in WA over the next four years, including the delivery of around 3,300 social dwellings as well as refurbishments and maintenance work to many thousands more. Minister's office - 6552 5300 | |
| New cyber security roadshow to block scammers and identity theft | 84570 | Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements | | | | 921 | | 0 | html | 20/03/2023 4:34:30 AM | 2023-03-20T04:00:00Z | WA Government has partnered with IDCARE to deliver 20 Cyber Resilience Outreach Clinics, with a focus on remote and regional areas Western Australians lost a record total of almost $16 million to scams in 2022 Report scams and suspicious activity to WA ScamNet to warn the communityThe McGowan Government has joined forces with Australia and New Zealand's national identity and cyber support service, IDCARE, to deliver 20 Cyber Resilience Outreach Clinics (CROC) throughout Western Australia. IDCARE's Team Leader Community Outreach Rob Blackmore will visit towns from the Great Southern to the Kimberley in a 'cyber truck', co-branded with WA ScamNet, to provide in-person support to communities impacted by identity theft and other cyber security incidents. A record 1,203 Western Australians reported total scam losses of $15,988,513 to ScamNet in 2022 - a $1,196,805 increase from the 1,041 losses reported in 2021, and a $4,188,513 increase from the 952 losses reported in 2020. An Australian Competition and Consumer Commission survey has indicated that approximately only 13 per cent of scam losses are reported to regulators. This alarming data shows that, as scams become more sophisticated, more Western Australians are falling victim to them, resulting in larger losses. It also highlights the importance of fostering awareness and resilience in the fight against cybercrimes, scams and identity theft. IDCARE has found Australians living in remote and regional communities are three times more likely to be impacted by cybercrime and scams than their city counterparts and experience higher financial losses. The CROC roadshow covers 20 locations across the State, including Katanning, Busselton, Bunbury, Collie, Mandurah, Perth, York, Dongara, Geraldton, Carnarvon, Roebourne, Port Hedland, Newman, Bidyadanga, Derby, Fitzroy Crossing, Halls Creek and Wyndham. These WA locations were selected based on WA ScamNet and IDCARE data, geographical events such as the Kimberley floods, and requests from the community, with each clinic tailored to the requirements and issues affecting consumers in the local area. The mobile pop-up clinics will be delivered in a format best suited to each community, such as a stall at the Harmony Festival in Katanning on 25 March, or a more formal presentation at a community resource centre, with WA ScamNet resources on hand. You can keep track of the CROC roadshow locations by following the Consumer Protection WA Facebook or Instagram page for regular updates. WA ScamNet gathers information from consumers and businesses to raise awareness of scams that are targeting Western Australians. By reporting scams, suspicious emails and text messages on the ScamNet website or calling 1300 30 40 54, WA ScamNet can stay up to date with the latest and most prevalent scams, and warn the community. Comments attributed to Commerce Minister Sue Ellery "Protecting the identities of Western Australians and helping people to avoid being scammed are important priorities for the McGowan Government. "We are excited to collaborate with IDCARE on this shared journey to raise awareness about current scams, cyber threats and online-enabled crimes, and help protect remote and regional communities in particular from malicious cyber activity. "Communities are being exposed to an environment of increasing cyber security concerns, and this partnership will provide in-person support and assurance to more people right across the State. "The WA Government is committed to improving cyber security in WA and preventing malicious cyber activity at every opportunity, which is why it is crucial for consumers to report scams to WA ScamNet." Minister's office - 6552 5700 | |
| One of Perth’s biggest rooftop solar arrays set to be switched on at Fremantle Passenger Terminal | 84569 | Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements | | | | 985 | | 0 | html | 20/03/2023 1:00:55 AM | 2023-03-20T01:00:00Z | Installation of 1100 solar panels on Fremantle Passenger Terminal now complete The new solar array will be switched on imminently The solar array will provide 100 per cent of the passenger terminal's needs during cruise ship operation System will offset around 15,000 tonnes of CO2 over the 25-year lifespan Ports Minister Rita Saffioti today announced the completion of a major solar array on the roof of the Fremantle Passenger Terminal which, from this month, will help power Victoria Quay. Comprising more than 1100 individual panels and covering much of the building's roof, the 500kw solar array will be able to supply 100 per cent of the passenger terminal's needs during cruise ship operations and 65 per cent of Fremantle Ports' administration building requirements. The system is one of the biggest rooftop solar arrays anywhere in the Perth metropolitan area. The photovoltaic system will generate approximately 836MWh of electricity every year, equivalent to 2.5 per cent of Fremantle Ports' direct usage. Over the 25-year expected lifespan of the system, it will offset 15,000 tonnes of CO2, the equivalent of planting 85,000 trees. The initiative contributes to Fremantle Ports' 2027 Strategic Plan goal to achieve net zero scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2027. This goal aims to achieve a sustainable port and supply chain over the long term and aligns with the Western Australian Climate Policy (2020) and the State Government's commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. The cost of the installation was $950,000. Fremantle Passenger Terminal is a heritage-listed building, which meant approval from the Heritage Council was required prior to the solar array being installed. Careful consideration was also given to ensuring the installation would not be visually detrimental to the building's heritage values, while a glare analysis report was undertaken to confirm there would be no increase in the glare index for adjacent residents in Fremantle or ship-board passengers. The panels cannot be seen from the surrounding area, at ground level. The installation of the new solar array complements recent investment of $3 million by the State Government to upgrade and refurbish the Fremantle Passenger Terminal. The system is expandable to meet future needs, if required. Comments attributed to Ports Minister Rita Saffioti "This is a great example of how community assets, like the Fremantle Passenger Terminal, can play a role in climate action. "The passenger terminal is a very large building which made it ideal for installing 1100 solar panels, delivering one of the largest rooftop solar arrays in the metropolitan area. "The McGowan Government is committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and, with this project, Fremantle Ports has demonstrated strong and sensible leadership at the local level in terms of cutting emissions." Comments attributed to Climate Action Minister Reece Whitby "It's exciting to see the Fremantle Passenger Terminal make the sustainable switch to solar and take action to combat climate change. "Our Government is investing significantly in renewable energy while supporting cutting-edge solutions to the climate crisis. "Western Australia is embracing the solar revolution at a rapid rate and we will continue to focus on innovative ways to power our State." Comments attributed to Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk "Fremantle locals are known for being environmentally conscious so it's great to see our iconic passenger terminal going green by embracing solar power. "This impressive installation will not only help power Victoria Quay - it will have the same benefit to the environment as planting 85,000 trees. "Renewable energy is the way of the future, but as this project shows, the benefits to the environment can be realised without compromising aesthetics. "This important heritage building holds a special place in the heart of many Freo locals and now is sustainable as well - contributing to Fremantle Ports plan to achieve net zero emissions by 2027." Minister's office - 6552 5500 | |
| Funding support to build stronger Lotto retailers | 84568 | Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements | | | | 1061 | | 0 | html | 19/03/2023 6:18:44 AM | 2023-03-19T06:00:00Z | McGowan Government to deliver funding injection to Lotterywest's retail network New Better Business program to provide $4.5 million each year directly to retailers to support around 500 small businesses Part of a five-year $39 million initiative to build business sustainability and ensure retailers benefit from all Lotterywest sales Funding for major overhaul of Lotterywest's gaming systems and in-store devices The McGowan Government has today launched a new $39 million program to support Lotterywest's retail network of almost 500 small businesses with a funding boost to ensure their long-term sustainability. The Better Business program will directly deliver $4.5 million each year to local Lotterywest retailers, who will directly benefit from the growth in Lotterywest's online market. The initiative is part of a five-year program of work to support the long-term sustainability of retailers, while ensuring Lotterywest can continue to give back to the Western Australian community through its grant program. The program will include $3.5 million in Business Support payments each year to be shared directly with around 500 small local businesses; $500,000 each year in dedicated support services for retailer businesses including sales coaching, visual merchandising and adapting to changing customer habits; and $500,000 each year in short-term incentives known as Sales Sprints. Retailers will be required to meet minimum standards in order to be eligible for the payments, which will be made quarterly. The State Government will also invest in a major overhaul of Lotterywest's gaming systems, including replacing in-store lottery devices to deliver the best possible customer experience, as well as updating technologies that underpin Lotterywest's gaming systems. Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan "As Lotterywest's online sales grow each year, it is vital that we continue to reinvest in the network of retailers at the heart of the Lotterywest model. "This investment in Lotterywest's network of retailers will help small, locally-run WA businesses become more sustainable into the future. "Lotterywest is a State icon and has been benefitting WA for almost 90 years. It's pivotal we support the small businesses who sell Lotterywest games, so it can continue providing support to the WA community." Premier's office - 6552 5200 | |
