Patient care and safety enters the digital age
Source: NSW. Minster for Health
"The State Government has started rolling out new electronic medical records (eMR)s technology into public hospitals across the State to help improve patient care and safety.
The Minister said the new technology would also make it easier for doctors and nurses to track the condition of patients through the health system as hospital information would be linked between facilities via eMRs. "

Expert Panel and Terms of Reference for Review into the Governance, Efficiency and Structure and Operation of Australia's Superannuation System
Source: Australia. Minister for Superannuation and Corporate Law. Media Release
"Senator Nick Sherry, Minister for Superannuation and Corporate Law, has today announced the details of the Review into the governance, efficiency, structure and operation of Australia’s superannuation system including the membership of the Expert Panel and the Terms of Reference."

Pollution reduction support for Australian households
Source: Australia. Treasurer and Minister for Climate Change and Water. Joint Media Release
"Low and middle income families will be assisted in moving to a low pollution future as a result of the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme Amendment (Household Assistance) Bill 2009, tabled in Parliament today."

Australian Government to support future Indigenous media careers
Source: Australia. Minister for Employment Participation. Media release
"An Australian Government grant will help 60 Indigenous Australians to get their first big break in an Australian Football League sports media career.
Speaking at an event before the ‘Dreamtime at the G’ match, the Minister for Employment Participation, Brendan O’Connor launched the ‘Indigenous Radio Broadcasting’ project which the Rudd Government is supporting through funding of $441,600."

Rees Government helps problem gamblers inside venues
NSW. Minister for Liquor, Gaming and Racing
"The NSW Government has launched a new campaign to update anti-problem gambling
materials in the State’s gaming venues in an effort to deliver a consistent and effective message to gamblers."

National Centre for Rural Greenhouse Gas Research to be led by Professor Cowie
Source: NSW. Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy
"The NSW DPI commits close to $100 million on research, development and extension each year, supporting agricultural and forestry industries that produce more than $9 billion worth of product annually," he said. "This latest initiative will position NSW to harness the new opportunities that will be created by the shift to a low-carbon economy."

Stronger defence against cyber bullying
Source: South Australia. The Premier
"Amongst other measures, principals can also now confiscate students’ mobile phones and hand them over to police as evidence, if there is reasonable suspicion that the phones have been used to record a crime."

Government Blitz on International Education Providers
Source: Victoria. Minister for Skills and Workforce Participation. Media Release
"The Brumby Government will carry out an immediate and rapid audit into the operations of Victoria’s international education providers, Skills and Workforce Participation Minister Jacinta Allan announced. Ms Allan said this will be an Australian-first for the international education industry and has the support of the Federal Education Minister Julia Gillard and Immigration Minister Chris Evans.“The Brumby Government is taking action to ensure Victoria retains its reputation as a leader of Australia’s $15 billion education export industry,” Ms Allan said.“The Brumby Government is committed to ensuring Victoria’s international students have access to the best educational infrastructure, support and programs available."

Victoria Working to Assist Disdvantaged Jobseekers
Source: Victoria. Minister for Skills and Workforce Participation. Media Release
"The Brumby Government is encouraging industry and community organisations to lodge expressions of interest to help 1150 disadvantaged Victorians enter the labour market. Skills and Workforce Participation Minister Jacinta Allan said the 09/10 State Budget provided $10.2 million to increase its current workforce participation goals to generate more opportunities for disadvantaged jobseekers.“The Brumby Government is taking action to assist people with barriers to employment develop skills and find a job,” Ms Allan said. “Now more than ever, it is vital that as many Victorians as possible are in work or training and that’s why we’ve funded the New Workforce Partnerships (NWP) program for a further two years.“I encourage industry and community organisations to work in partnership to tender for projects that deliver employment outcomes for disadvantaged jobseekers."

$650,000 To Grow Victoria's Agribusiness Sector
Source: Victoria. Minister for Regional and Rural Development. Media Release
"A $650,000 Brumby Government initiative will help Victoria’s agribusiness industry development and boost exports. Regional and Rural Development Minister Jacinta Allan said a $250,000 independent industry study and a $400,000 industry development program will help boost opportunities for Victorian corporate agribusiness enterprises.“The Brumby Government is taking action to support industry and develop sustainable agribusinesses for the future at a time of global economic uncertainty,” Ms Allan said. “Threats to the agribusinesses include drought, water security, climate change, industry structural adjustment, growing global competition, capital availability, and the need to collaborate to develop exports and investment. This independent study will assist government and industry develop a new way forward to boost production and trade while managing the impact of the global financial crisis, introduction of a carbon pollution reduction scheme and increasing employment in the sector.”

Victoria's Workforce to Learn More About Responsible Gambling
Source: Victoria. Minister for Gaming. Media Release
"Victorian workers will learn about responsible gambling through an employee education program launched by the Brumby Labor Government in partnership with the Victorian Employer’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI), employer groups and 22 local governments. Launching the campaign at Jayco Caravans in Dandenong, Gaming Minister Tony Robinson said the initiative was a fitting start to this year’s Responsible Gambling Awareness Week (May 25 – 31). Through this employee education program, VECCI will provide responsible gambling resources to its 15,000 members across Victoria through newsletters, websites, emails and CEO messages to be distributed to their employees.”

SMALL BUSINESS TAX BREAK BOOST
Australia. Treasurer. Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research. Joint Media Release
"Small businesses will now be able to claim a bonus tax deduction of 50 per cent – up from 30 per cent previously of the cost of eligible assets acquired between 13 December 2008 and 31 December 2009, and installed by 31 December 2010."

$108M CRC FOSTERS HIGH-END MANUFACTURING
Source: Australia. Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research. Media Release
"A $108 million Advanced Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre, officially launched by Innovation Minister, Senator Kim Carr, is working hard to foster increased collaboration, innovation, and productivity among Australia’s high-end manufacturers."

New Regulations for Better Children's Services
Source: Victoria. Premier. Media Release
"Victorian parents will benefit from better childcare services for their children under significant new reforms unveiled by the Brumby Government. At Yarraberg Children’s Centre in Richmond, the Premier John Brumby said the new Children’s Services Regulations 2009 would greatly improve childcare standards, boost staff to child ratios and increase staff qualification requirements. The new Children’s Services Regulations will boost childcare standards whilst ensuring childcare remains affordable for families, adaptive to their changing needs and attractive to quality childcare workers."

SUPPORTING WORLD-CLASS UNIVERSITY RESEARCH
Source: Australia. Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research. Media Release
"The Rudd Government will increase Australia’s capacity to generate new ideas and technologies by investing more than $700 million more in world-class university research over the next four years."

GMO Ban Bill Passed
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Primary Industries and Water
"Tasmania’s ban on the release of genetically modified organisms to the environment will continue for at least another five years under a Bill passed by Parliament today (20/05/2009).
The Minister for Primary Industries and Water, David Llewellyn, said today that the State’s GMO-free status is a key factor in the Tasmanian Brand."

SUPER SCIENCE INITIATIVE
Source: Australia. Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research. Media Release
"The Government will extend the nation's horizons with a $1.1 billion boost for critical areas of scientific endeavour, including astronomy, climate change, marine and life sciences, biotechnology and nanotechnology. "

Powering Ideas: an innovation agenda for the 21st century
Source: Australia. Dept of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research. Report
"The Government has outlined its innovation agenda for Australia over the next decade in Powering Ideas: An Innovation Agenda for the 21st Century, supported by a $3.1 billion boost in funding over the next four years.
The Budget package includes more support for world class university research, a Super Science Initiative focusing on national research strengths, a new Research and Development Tax Credit and other measures to boost business innovation."

BUILDING INNOVATION IN TEXTILES, CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR
Source: Australia. Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research. Media Release
"The Government will drive innovation and renewal in the Australian textiles, clothing and footwear (TCF) industries by investing $401.0 million in a retargeted TCF package from 2009-10 to 2015 16. The package redirects $55.0 million towards innovation, including $10.0 million in new funding."

Assistance for Self Funded Retirees
Source: Australia. Treasurer. Media Release
"From 1 July 2009, the Government will halve the minimum amounts self-funded retirees have to draw down from their account-based pensions for 2009-10."

R&D Tax Credit to Boost Business Investment
Source: Australia. Treasurer. Media Release
"The Rudd Government will simplify and enhance the Research and Development (R&D) Tax Concession so that it provides better incentives and more support for Australian jobs in the face of the global recession."

Australia's Future Tax System - The Retirement Income System: Report on Strategic Issues
Source: Australia. Treasury. Report
"The Government is pleased to launch the Australia's Future Tax System (AFTS) Report on the retirement income system prepared by the AFTS Review Panel.
This vital report accompanies historic measures in today's Budget to boost the level of the pension so that older Australians can live in dignity through their retirement."

Reform of Family Payments
Source: Australia. Treasurer. Media release
"In particular, the reforms will support low and middle income families with the cost of raising children and promote workforce participation and reward for effort. They will complement other key reforms in the tax and transfer systems, including increasing the Low Income Tax Offset."

Secure and Sustainable Pension Reform
Source: Australia. Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs. Media Release
"Australia's single pensioners will receive increases of up to $32.49 a week as part of the Australian Government's Secure and Sustainable Pension Reforms."

A Working Future: Real Towns, Real Jobs, Real Opportunities
Source: Northern Territory. Minister for Indigenous Policy and the Chief Minister
"A Working Future is a visionary six-part plan that will develop 20 large service towns, set a new path for homelands and outstations, and focus and coordinate the delivery of infrastructure, services and development in the remote Territory."

Tough new laws to tackle youth crime
Source: Queensland. Minister for Community Services and Housing and Minister for Women. Media Release
" Sweeping reforms to tackle youth crime have been introduced into State Parliament by Community Services Minister Karen Struthers. Minister Struthers said the tough new laws would help make life safer and more secure for all Queenslanders. Some of the changes to the Juvenile Justice Act include:
·giving Courts specific powers to impose curfews on dangerous young offenders
·giving Courts wider powers to name dangerous young offenders convicted of serious offences; and
·giving police stronger powers to arrest dangerous young offenders who breach bail and supervision orders. "

New central tribunal to improve access to justice for Queenslanders
Source: Queensland. Attorney-General and Minister for Industrial Relations. Media Release
"Attorney-General Cameron Dick introduced a bill into State Parliament which will streamline access to civil and administrative justice in Queensland. Mr Dick said the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal Bill will enable the creation of a new central tribunal (QCAT), to make it easier for Queenslanders with civil and administrative matters to access the appropriate support and information. “This Bill represents the Bligh Government’s commitment to a fair, open and accessible justice system, that reflects the needs of Queenslanders in the 21st Century,” Mr Dick said. The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal will simplify access to justice in our state, by amalgamating the jurisdictions of 23 bodies, into a single one-stop-shop."

Submissions invited on draft laws to assist victims of crime
Source: Queensland. Attorney-General and Minister for Industrial Relations. Media Release
"Attorney-General Cameron Dick is calling for public comment on a draft bill outlining the complete overhaul of Queensland’s victims compensation system. The Victims of Crime Assistance Bill 2009 outlines the functions of the new Victims Financial Assistance Scheme, which is expected to be introduced in Queensland this December. Mr Dick said the new scheme is designed to help victims of crime to recover and get their lives back on track. “This new scheme represents the Bligh Government’s commitment to ensuring victims of crime have access to the support and assistance they need,” Mr Dick said."

Laws passed to provide authorities with phone tapping powers
Source: Queensland. Attorney-General and Minister for Industrial Relations. Media Release
"The use of phone tapping powers will now be available to Queensland law enforcement officers, following the passing of new legislation in State Parliament. The Telecommunications Interception Act 2009 will enable Queensland police and officers of the Crime and Misconduct Commission to apply for telecommunications interception warrants, to assist in the investigation of serious crime in Queensland. Attorney-General Cameron Dick said the legislation introduced by the Bligh Labor Government has ensured that the fundamental rights and liberties of Queenslanders are protected, through the inclusion of the Public Interest Monitor."

New laws passed to target rock throwers
Source: Queensland. Attorney-General and Minister for Industrial Relations. Media Release
"Any person who throws a rock at a vehicle on a Queensland road can now be sent to jail, under new laws passed in the State Parliament. Attorney-General Cameron Dick said Queensland authorities now have access to the most comprehensive range of rock throwing laws in the country. “Throwing rocks at vehicles is dangerous and deadly behaviour, that puts the lives of innocent Queenslanders at risk,” Mr Dick said. People driving on Queensland roads should not have to fear rocks being thrown at their vehicle."

Longhaus awarded rights to Government technology information
Source: Queensland. Minister for Public Works and Information and Communication Technology. Media Release
"Brisbane based IT research firm Longhaus has secured the commercialisation rights to selected Queensland Government technology information, the Minister for Public Works and Information and Communication Technology, Robert Schwarten announced. In a first for Australia, the Queensland Government will inform industry of its current and potential technology spending through a range of information products offered by Longhaus. Minister Schwarten said the aim of the arrangement was to provide an endorsed ICT profile so that local and international ICT vendors could better plan for and match their product offerings to the Government."

Online Tourism Tutor for Queensland teachers and students
Source: Queensland. Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading. Media Release
"High school teachers and students can now access an online educational tool produced by Tourism Queensland to assist them with tourism-related subjects, Tourism Minister Peter Lawlor announced. My Tourism Tutor, a comprehensive, classroom-ready online educational tool went live last week. “My Tourism Tutor provides a series of tourism-related modules for teachers to work through with their students,” Mr Lawlor said. “It’s an innovative resource for teachers of tourism-related subjects including vocational education and training-accredited tourism units, school-based tourism units for grades 11 and 12, studies of society and environment units and enterprise education units. The program facilitates learning about tourism-related issues such as sustainability and the environment, tourism trends, Queensland destinations and products.”

Bligh Government Reaffirms Koala Response Strategy
Source: Queensland. Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability. Media Release
"A freeze on clearing State Government land will continue and koala habitat will more strongly influence planning and development approvals as a new report shows a decline in the koala population on the Koala Coast. Climate Change and Sustainability Minister Kate Jones and Infrastructure and Planning Minister Stirling Hinchliffe reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to the recently released Koala Response Strategy to better protect koalas and to expand koala habitat in south east Queensland by 2020. Ms Jones said planning would commence immediately for two tunnels or overpasses with fencing at koala ‘blackspots’ on main roads at a cost of $10 million and work on a new State Planning Policy for koalas was already underway."

Nation-Building – Investing in Health and Medical Research
Source: Australia. Dept of Health and Ageing
"The Rudd Government will invest $430.3 million to build and upgrade health and medical research and training facilities across Australia, and $596 million to expand cancer research facilities, drawing from the Health and Hospitals Fund."

More GPs, Health Workers for Far North Queensland Indigenous Communities
Source: Australia. Minister for Health and Ageing. Media Release
"The Minister for Health and Ageing, Nicola Roxon and Member for Leichhardt, Jim Turnour today announced that the Rudd Government will provide almost $600,000 to improve Indigenous health care services in Far North Queensland. "

$14.9 Million for Clean Energy Trade and Investment
Source: Australia. Minister for Trade. Media Release
"The Government will provide $14.9 million over three years to attract productive investment into Australia's clean energy sector and assist Australian clean energy companies to access international markets through export and investment."

$13.0 Million to Help Improve Indigenous Electoral Participation
Source: Australia. Special Minister of State. Media Release
"The 2009-10 Budget provides $13.0 million to the Australian Electoral Commission to close the gap in areas of Indigenous disadvantage by improving the electoral enrolment and participation of Indigenous Australians."

Budget Measures: Promoting Integrity and Accountability
Source: Australia. Special Minister of State. Media Release
"The Government will provide $20.5 million over four years to establish and run the Office of the Information Commissioner. "

Government launches National Standards for the Primary Prevention of Sexual Assault through Education
Source: Australia. Minister for the Status of Women. Media Release
"The National Association of Services Against Sexual Violence (NASASV) has today taken an important step towards reducing violence against women in Australia with the release of the National Standards for the Primary Prevention of Sexual Assault through Education."

$1.3 billion towards closing the gap
Source: Australia. Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs
"The Australian Government has committed $1.3 billion to continue driving its national reform agenda to close the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. "

National carbon accounting toolbox
Source: Australia. Minister for Climate Change and Water. Media release
"The Australian Government will invest $16.1 million over four years to develop a National Carbon Accounting Toolbox. "

Australian Government Climate Change Strategy
Source: Australia. Minister for Climate Change and Water. Media release
"The Rudd Government is providing over $15 billion to implement a comprehensive response to climate change to safeguard our environment, sustain our society and support our economy."

$4.5 Billion clean energy initiative
Source: Australia. Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts. Media Release
"The Rudd Government will invest $4.5 billion to support the growth of clean energy generation and new technologies, and to reduce carbon emissions and stimulate economic activity in a sector that will support thousands of new green-collar jobs.
The Clean Energy Initiative will support clean technologies and industries and assist Australia's transition to a lower emissions path."

$4.3 billion for improving the Energy Efficiency of homes
Source: Australia. Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts. Media Release
"More than three million Australian households are set to benefit from the largest energy efficiency rollout Australia has ever seen.
The $4.0 billion Energy Efficient Homes Package will install ceiling insulation in 2.9 million homes and help more than 300,000 additional households install a solar hot water system."

New strategy to tackle Hepatitis C
Source: South Australia. Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse. Media Release.
"The State Government has launched a new strategy to tackle hepatitis C in South Australia. Treatment can cure hepatitis C in more than 50 percent of cases. At least seven percent of all people chronically infected with hepatitis C will develop liver cirrhosis after 20 years of infection."

SA leads the way on responsible gambling
Source: South Australia. Minister for Gambling. Media Release.
"The Rann Government is working on proposed amendments to the Gaming Machines Act 1992, including:
Accelerating gaming machine entitlement reduction through the removal of the fixed price and a new Approved Trading System; Strengthening the Social Effect Test for new venues; Imposing extra responsibilities on late trading venues; Prohibiting gaming machines being located in smoking areas; Extending State responsible gambling policies to airport gaming venues."

Tougher penalties for trashing public land
Source: South Australia. Minister for Environment and Conservation Minister. Media Release.
"People who trash public land by squatting, dumping rubbish, riding motorbikes through native vegetation and destroying sand dunes for development will face tough new penalties under changes to the State’s environmental laws. Environment and Conservation Minister Jay Weatherill said changes to the Crown Lands Act that have passed Parliament would mean fines of up to $20,000 for the most serious offences as well expiation notices for other offences."

NSW response to Nanotechnology Inquiry
Report & Government Response.
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Science and Medical Research. Media Release.
"The New South Wales Government has tabled its response to the NSW Legislative
Council Inquiry into the use and applications of Nanotechnology. Minister for Science and Medical Research Jodi McKay said the Government response emphasises mechanisms to ensure safety while still encouraging innovation and industry development of nanotechnology."

New regulations for community housing
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Housing. Media Release.
"Housing Minister David Borger said new community housing regulations protect current and future tenants and ensure community housing organisations deliver consistent, high-quality services. "Community housing organisations are locally based, not-for-profit organisations who manage government funded housing for people on lower incomes. It’s a growing industry in NSW and these regulations mean that tenants can expect high quality and consistent services no matter which organisation they deal with," Mr Borger said."

NEW SPEED LIMITING TECHNOLOGY TO BE TRIALLED IN NSW
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Roads. Media Release.
"Minister for Roads Michael Daley today said the NSW Government would trial new intelligent speed adaptation (ISA) devices in the cars of 100 volunteers to see if the technology is successful in helping drivers stick to the speed limit."

POINT-TO-POINT CAMERAS TO REDUCE HEAVY VEHICLE FATALITIES
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Roads. Media Release.
"Minister for Roads Michael Daley today announced the introduction of point-to-point speed cameras for heavy vehicles to reduce the number of deaths and injuries on major highways around the state. Mr Daley said the point-to-point system, which has been successful overseas, would be introduced on 20 stretches of road. The routes will range from 2km to 80km in distance and will be designed to enforce heavy vehicle speed limits on NSW’s major freight routes."

New laws to promote better financial management by councils
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Local Government. Media Release.
"Minister Perry today released the draft Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework for community consultation saying the proposed legislation is designed to encourage consistent and thorough planning by all councils on all projects. "We are proposing an integrated framework that requires councils to plan for the long term with a particular emphasis on matching infrastructure to community need," Ms Perry said."

Funds for innovative new disability housing in Goulburn
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Ageing, Disability & Home Care. Media Release.
"A new type of supported housing for people with a mild intellectual disability is to be built in Goulburn by The Abbeyfield Society with support from the NSW Government. “The Abbeyfield model does not replicate any accommodation types currently provided for people with a disability in New South Wales,” he said. He said the model was in line with the policy of the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care (DADHC) to increase the range and type of services available and to promote opportunities for people to integrate into the community."

$1.6 million to help children with challenging behaviour
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Ageing, Disability & Home Care. Media Release.
" The NSW Government will dedicate more than $1.6 million to two initiatives to support children with autism and children with challenging behaviour and their families. Mr Lynch said $1 million would establish two pilot programs for children with challenging behaviour who are at risk of school suspension or expulsion."

$6 Million for eight multicultural counselling services
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Gaming. Media Release.
"Gaming and Racing Minister Kevin Greene today announced eight specialist ethnic counseling
services will share in $6 million in funding to help people fight problem gambling. Mr Greene joined local MP Nick Lalich in Cabramatta today to meet with the staff of ‘Vietnamese Community in Australia’, a service that will receive $137,258 this year. “It can be difficult to encourage people from some non-English speaking backgrounds to seek help with problem gambling from mainstream services,” Mr Greene said."

Greyhound and harness racing reforms pass parliament
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Racing. Media Release.
"Reforms to ensure the ongoing integrity and viability of the harness and greyhound racing
industries passed through NSW Parliament today. Gaming and Racing Minister Kevin Greene said the new legislation introduces significant changes to the commercial and regulatory oversight of the two racing codes. “This is a cost efficient and effective system of regulation that brings in a single controlling body for each of the greyhound and harness codes,” Mr Greene said."

NEW PROGRAM TO PREVENT CHILDREN ENTERING FOSTER CARE
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Community Services. Media Release.
"The Rees Government is committed to helping families stay together and prevent children from
entering the out-of-home care system. Minister for Community Services Linda Burney today announced almost $900,000 funding to Barnardos to run a new family preservation and out-of-home care service for families in Inner and South East Sydney, many of whom are Aboriginal."

REFORMS FOR CHILDREN IN CARE
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Community Services. Media Release.
"The NSW Parliament today passed legislation to improve the delivery of out-of-home care
services to children and young people in care. “Amendments to the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 are part of a wider reform package of the Rees Government regarding out-of-home care services for children,” Community Services Minister Linda Burney said. “These changes to the Act will provide greater flexibility to out-of-home care agencies applying for accreditation.”

Training launched to help identify mental illness in young children
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Community Services. Media Release.
"Hundreds of staff will be trained to identify mental illness in children and young people who are in out-of-home care thanks to a joint initiative by the Department of Community Services and NSW Health. Minister for Community Services Linda Burney and Minister Assisting on Health (Mental Health) Barbara Perry said the program for Department of Community Services caseworkers and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services staff will increase awareness and skills for those working with vulnerable children."

SAFE SEXTING: NO SUCH THING
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Community Services. Media Release.
"The NSW Government today announced that it would start an education campaign to warn children about the dangers of sexting and posting images of themselves on the internet.
Minister for Community Services Linda Burney today unveiled a new fact sheet for schools, parents and young people to warn about the lifetime consequences of this growing practice."

Parliament passes new laws to protect home owners
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Lands. Media Release.
"Minister for Lands, Tony Kelly, said legislation to stop banks and other financial institutions from holding firesales of defaulted mortgages has been passed by the Parliament. Mr Kelly said the new laws require banks and financial institutions involved in ‘mortgagee in possession’ sales take all reasonable steps to ensure the property is sold at ‘not less than the market value’."

POLICE GIVEN GREATER POWERS TO MOVE ON DRUNKS
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Police. Media Release.
"Minister for Police Tony Kelly announced new legislation will allow police to disperse groups of people who are “noticeably affected” by alcohol or drugs and are likely to damage property or
threaten public safety. “By breaking up drunken and unruly gatherings, police can potentially prevent violence and other criminal activity,” Mr Kelly said."

Irrigators encouraged to participate in water sharing plan survey
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Water. Media Release.
"Water Minister Phil Costa today encouraged irrigators from areas across NSW to participate in a voluntary survey that will help build a more detailed profile of the State’s irrigation industry."

NSW Government provides consumer protection package to combat increases in electricity prices
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Energy. Media Release.
"The NSW Government has unveiled a $272 million compensation package to help families and pensioners meet IPART’s electricity price rises, Minister for Energy Ian Macdonald said today.
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) today announced its decision to increase energy prices. The $272 million Consumer Protection Package has been developed as part of the energy reform process."

Hand Hygiene Program for NSW
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Health. Media Release.
"The NSW and Federal Governments have joined forces to roll out a new hand hygiene program in the state’s public and private hospitals. NSW Minister for Health, John Della Bosca, said the aim of the national three-year program is to halve the rate of hospital infections."

Jail time for recruiting members to illegal gangs
Source: New South Wales. Premier. Media Release.
"Anyone who recruits members to a bikie gang that has been declared a criminal organisation will face up to five years' jail in NSW under new laws. Premier Nathan Rees has announced the next round of legislation aimed at outlawing motorcycle gangs, to go before state parliament on Tuesday, will include the new offence of recruiting a person to be a member of a declared organisation."

New search warrant laws for police targetting crime gangs
Source: New South Wales. Premier. Media Release.
"New laws making it easier for police to obtain search warrants to target crime gangs balance law enforcement and civil liberties, the NSW government says. Under legislation to be introduced into NSW parliament this week, police will be able to apply to a Supreme Court judge to search a premises based on "reasonable suspicion".Currently they have to satisfy a higher threshold of "reasonable belief"."

FOI Reform - Open Government Information
Source: New South Wales. Premier. Media Release.
"The Premier, Nathan Rees, today released three draft bills which adopt many of the Ombudsman's recommendations contained in a report in February on how to improve the state's FoI laws. "

NSW National broadband network taskforce.
Source: New South Wales. Premier. Media Release.
"NSW Premier Nathan Rees says he's confident Sydney can secure the headquarters of the new national broadband network." Premier Rees announced the establishment of a NSW national broadband network taskforce to accelerate the roll out."

Rees launches program to help families with their power bills
Source: New South Wales. Premier. Media Release.
"Low-income families will be the first to receive state government-issued environmental packs aimed at reducing household energy bills and water use. They also come with a free home audit worth $200." "Families could save $30 a quarter on their energy bills by making some simple changes, Mr Rees said."

New campaign to help families save power.
Source: New South Wales. Premier. Media Release.
"A major education campaign to help households save power, keep energy bills down and reduce carbon pollution was launched by the Premier Nathan Rees and Deputy Premier Carmel Tebbutt."

Outstations/homelands policy
Source: Northern Territory Government
"As part of its "Working futures" policy the NT government has announced that services to outstations/homelands will in most cases involve a form of remote delivery, based from the closest or most accessible hub town."

Labor Government sets zero net emissions target for Canberra
Source: ACT. Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Water
The ACT Government has agreed to establish a target of zero net greenhouse gas emissions for Canberra. The goal is outlined in the ACT Government's submission to the ACT Legislative Assembly Inquiry into ACT Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets, together with a reaffirmation of the commitment to legislate greenhouse gas reduction targets and an update on Government actions and achievements to date

New Agreement Means More Kindergarten and Better Qualified Early Childhood Teachers
Source: Victoria. Minister for Children and Early Childhood Development. Media Release
"Children and Early Childhood Development Minister Maxine Morand has welcomed a Heads of Agreement between peak employer associations and unions representing early childhood teachers that will provide Victorian children with more hours of quality kindergarten and improve the skills of the early childhood workforce. Ms Morand said the Heads of Agreement would make a significant contribution to the Brumby Government’s commitment that every Victorian child had access to a place in a high-quality structured kindergarten program. The agreement will also support the implementation of the Brumby Government’s Blueprint for Education and Early Childhood Development, including the Early Years Learning Framework and transition planning for children from kindergarten to school."

Red Tape Slashed for $3 Billion Education and Housing Projects
Source: Victoria. Minister for Planning. Media Release
"The Brumby Government has slashed red tape and streamlined the planning system to secure $3 billion worth of education and social housing projects and 9,000 jobs funded through the Commonwealth Nation Building and Economic Stimulus Plan. Planning Minister Justin Madden said the changes would pave the way for the largest number of simultaneous education and housing projects to be undertaken in Victoria’s history. “These reforms will mean a significant number of non-government schools will be exempt from the need for a planning permit; so they can start works sooner and secure their share of the federal funding available to Victorian schools,” he said."

Brumby Government Boost Means More Digital Jobs
Source: Victoria. Minister for Innovation. Media Release
"The Brumby Government is providing more than $1 million to Victoria’s leading-edge digital games and online applications developers to help with the final push to get their products on the global market, Innovation Minister Gavin Jennings announced. The funding will be used by the companies in the key stage of producing prototypes of their products that, once complete, can be presented to potential buyers to take on to commercialisation. The funding, provided through Film Victoria’s Digital Media Prototyping program, will be used to assist education, technology, and gaming projects that will further enhance Victoria’s position as the production hub of world-class digital content in Australia."

Net Premium Solar Feed-In Tariff Balances Rewards and Costs
Source: Victoria. Minister for Energy and Resources. Media Release
"The Brumby Government’s premium feed-in tariff scheme will help Victorian householders repay the cost of installing average sized solar panels within about 10 years, Energy and Resources Minister Peter Batchelor told an environment group in Castlemaine. “The Brumby Government is taking action to help Victorians reduce their individual carbon footprint,” Mr Batchelor said. “Through our scheme Victorian householders who put solar panels on their roof will receive 60 cents credit per kilowatt hour for the energy they feed back into the grid. That is three to four times greater then the average price of electricity."

Brumby Government and CSIRO Join Forces in Hunt for Energy Resources and Jobs
Source: Victoria. Minister for Energy and Resources. Media Release
"Exploration for energy resources in Victoria has received a significant boost with the Brumby Government and CSIRO signing a new agreement aimed at reducing exploration risk and attracting new investment and jobs. Energy and Resources Minister Peter Batchelor said that under the new agreement, the CSIRO and the Victorian Department of Primary Industries would share information, data, technology and expertise. “The three-year collaborative agreement between the CSIRO and the Brumby Government will help established and emerging industries address this challenge by sharing information and expertise through research,” Mr Batchelor said."

Australia's First Child Chief Psychiatrist Appointed
Source: Victoria. Minister for Mental Health. Media Release
"The Brumby Government is furthering its reforms of Victoria’s mental health system with the appointment of a renowned expert in child and adolescent mental health as Australia’s first Chief Child Psychiatrist. Mental Health Minister Lisa Neville announced Dr Sandra Radovini as Chief Child Psychiatrist and said the appointment was an important part of the Brumby Government’s 10-year mental health reform strategy Because Mental Health Matters, released in March this year."

Interest Free Loans for Rainwater Tanks
Source: Victoria. Minister for Water. Media Release
"South East Water is offering interest free loans for customers to install rainwater tanks at home as part of a new initiative to help households meet the Target 155 daily consumption target. The water authority is offering customers in its area a complete rainwater tank solution including 12 or 24 month interest free loans, accredited installation options and reliable onsite advice. Water Minister Tim Holding said the new initiative along with the Brumby Government rebates would help increase the uptake of rainwater tanks."

Health Professionals Make Melbourne Home
Source: Victoria. Minister for Health. Media Release
"The new agency established to run the national registration and accreditation scheme for health professionals will be based in Melbourne, Health Minister Daniel Andrews announced. Mr Andrews said the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency would be responsible for registering and accrediting practitioners in 10 health professions – nurses/midwives, doctors, dental professionals, optometrists, pharmacists, physiotherapists, psychologists, podiatrists, osteopaths and chiropractors.Mr Andrews said the 10 national boards being established to replace individual boards in each state will also be based in the same building. "

Works on Regional Rail to Start this Year after $4 Billion Project Secures Federal Funding
Source: Victoria. Premier. Media Release
"Regional Rail Link, the centrepiece of the Brumby Government’s $38 billion Victorian Transport Plan, has secured Rudd Government funding allowing works to increase services across the V/Line and metropolitan rail networks to start by the end of the year. At Bendigo Railway Station, Premier John Brumby welcomed last night’s Rudd Government Federal Budget announcement of $3.2 billion towards the project and said it demonstrated Victoria had prioritised the right nation building projects to stimulate the economy and sustain jobs.“Regional Rail Link will create a generational shift in Victoria’s rail network, for the first time separate our regional and metropolitan trains, improve capacity, allow for more services and importantly, secure at least 2,800 jobs during construction,” Mr Brumby said."

Premier Reveals More Detail on Innovations Strategy
Source: Tasmania. The Premier
“I have spoken openly about my vision for Tasmania to become the food bowl of the nation and how the massive investment the Government is making now in irrigation, can make this vision a reality. The food bowl concept is only the first of five key components of the Innovations Strategy. Today I am outlining some of the other components of a strategy that will underpin Tasmania’s economic growth for decades to come,” Mr Bartlett said.

New peak planning body
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Planning
The Minister for Planning, David Llewellyn, introduced legislation into Parliament today (20/05/2009) which will establish a new peak planning body to be known as the Tasmanian Planning Commission. Mr Llewellyn said the establishment of a new State planning body arose out of the review into the State Planning System conducted last year.

New agency to set quality benchmarks in higher education
Source: Australia. Minister for Education. Media release
"The Rudd Government is investing $57 million over four years to establish a new national quality and standards agency as a core component of its response to the Bradley Review of Australian Higher Education.
As part of a move towards a student-focused university system, the Bradley Review proposed a significant re-design of the regulatory environment for universities and the development of a new quality assurance framework. "

Rudd Government to introduce paid parental leave
Source: Australia. Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations. Prime Minister. Treasurer. Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs. Joint media release
"The Rudd Government will deliver an historic Paid Parental Leave (PPL) scheme to support Australian families and prepare Australia for the economic and social challenges of the future.
This government-funded scheme will provide the primary carer with 18 weeks post-natal leave, paid at the adult federal minimum wage (currently $543.78 per week)."

Broadcasters and broadband to invigorate and strengthen Australia's digital economy
Source: Australia. Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy. Media Release
"Substantial new funding for the national broadcasters, totalling $185.3 million over three years, will allow them to expand their range of programming and build on the success of existing initiatives."

New National Energy Efficiency Initiative
Source: Australia. Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts.Minister for Resources and Energy. Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy. Joint media release
"The Rudd Government will invest up to $100 million in partnership with the energy sector for the development of a new National Energy Efficiency Initiative using 21st century technology to assist our transition to a low carbon economy by encouraging a smarter and more efficient energy network.
This initiative builds on the Government's unprecedented investment in the National Broadband Network, household energy efficiency and renewable energy. It includes the $3.9 billion Energy Efficient Homes Package that provides rebates for the installation of insulation and solar hot water systems, the new Solar Credits Scheme supporting home micro-generation, and the expanded Solar Cities program."

Budget 2009-10
Australia.
"The central task of the 2009-10 Budget is nation building for recovery.
The 2009-10 Budget supports jobs today by investing in the infrastructure that Australia needs for tomorrow.
Key elements include:
Investing in a $22 billion Nation Building Infrastructure centrepiece, which provides funding for roads, metro rail, ports, the Clean Energy Initiative, universities, research, hospitals and broadband.
Delivering an increase for single and couple pensioners and carers, boosting innovation funding, introducing a statutory paid parental leave scheme, extending the First Home Owners Boost and providing a Small Business Tax Break.
Taking the hard decisions necessary to make the Budget sustainable, and to chart the course back to surplus. "

Review of the National Biodiversity Strategy
Source: Australia. Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
"The Natural Resource Management Ministerial Council , on behalf of the Commonwealth and all state and territory governments, is inviting public comments on the draft Australia’s Biodiversity Conservation Strategy 2010–2020."

Jobs and housing bonanza
Source: Queensland. Minister for Community Services and Housing and Minister for Women. Media Release
"Work is underway on the biggest-ever investment in social housing infrastructure since the Chifley era and Housing Minister Karen Struthers is urging local builders and developers on the Gold Coast to put their bids in for their share. Minister Struthers inspected work on a housing site in Southport, being built by the Gold Coast Housing Company, as part of the National Rental Affordability Scheme. “This housing site is being funded by subsidies from the Federal and State Governments so that companies like the Gold Coast Housing Company can provide low-cost housing for people who need a roof over their head. “The Federal Government provides a subsidy of $6,000 for each dwelling and the State Government contributes $2,000 towards the project. “That way, rents can be set at or below 80% of market rents. It’s a win for people who rely on low-cost housing and it’s a win for local builders."

Cross River Rail key to city’s transport future
Source: Queensland. Minister for Transport. Media Release
"Transport Minister Rachel Nolan has welcomed the Federal Government’s budget announcement of $20 million for Cross River Rail, a major rail project to improve rail capacity and frequency through the Brisbane CBD. Ms Nolan said the committed funding would facilitate detailed planning including the selection of a preferred corridor, the preparation of an environmental impact statement and extensive community consultation.”
Ms Nolan said the project, which could cost up to $8.2 billion when completed, would provide a new rail link through the inner city, connecting the North Coast/Caboolture rail line with the Gold Coast/Beenleigh rail line."

Gold Coast a big winner with $365 million to rapid transit project
Source: Queensland. Minister for Transport. Media Release
" Queensland Transport Minister Rachel Nolan enthusiastically welcomed the Federal Government’s Budget announcement that the Gold Coast Rapid Transit system would receive $365 million as part of its commitment to infrastructure projects across Australia.
Minister Nolan said the rapid transit project initiated by the State Labor Government would shape the future of the city."

'Adopt a School' Program skills tomorrow's transport workforce
Source: Queensland. Minister for Transport. Media Release
" High school students are being given a pathway into the transport and logistics industry through an innovative program that sees industry ‘adopt’ a school. Transport Minister Rachel Nolan said the Transport and Logistics Adopt a School program links an industry employer, a school, and a training organisation to offer 15 to 17-year-olds recognised qualifications in logistics and warehousing, and the prospect of further training or employment. “Adopt-a-School provides the industry with a strategy to meet future skill needs, give employers access to a diverse talent pool and allows young people to gain hands-on experience,” Ms Nolan said."

Assisting Indigenous employment in the Primary Industries
Source: Queensland. Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland. Media Release
"Attracting staff and empowering staff with skills to become some of the State’s future leaders in the Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries is one of the beef industry’s greatest challenges. The Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland has announced a new approach to providing skilled employees to the beef industry’s workforce. “This new approach is in response to a current initiative delivering life skills training to indigenous Australians in preparation for employment in the pastoral and processing sectors. “The strategy is part of my Beef 2020 vision which is seeking new opportunities to provide skilled workers to the beef industry. "

Motorcycle strategy to tackle rising death toll
Source: Queensland. Minister for Transport and Minister for Main Roads. Media Release
"A long-term safety strategy intended to stem the alarming rise in road deaths among motorcyclists has been launched by Transport Minister Rachel Nolan and Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace. The Queensland Motorcycle Safety Strategy 2009-2012 was described by Ms Nolan as a four-year blueprint for motorcycle safety. "With more and more people riding motorcycles, the strategy outlines a range of initiatives aimed at decreasing the number of motorcycle-related deaths," she said."

Pilot program to speed up courts process
Source: South Australia. Attorney-General. Media Release.
"Attorney-General Michael Atkinson says the Criminal Case Conferencing pilot program has just begun in the Adelaide Magistrates Court and occurs before committal of a prosecution to the District Court. It not only speeds up the trial process but also enables the possibility of an early resolution between the prosecution and the defendant on a matter,” Mr Atkinson says."

New languages scholarship announced
Source: South Australia. Minister for Education. Media Release.
"More trained languages teachers will be available to work in South Australia’s schools through a new five-year scholarship program to be unveiled today. Up to 15 scholarships will be offered each year to provide aspiring language teachers with financial support to learn a language or undertake a teaching degree."

Nowhere to hide for unregistered and uninsured drivers
Source: South Australia. Minister for Road Safety Minister. Media Release.
"Road traffic cameras around the state will begin detecting unregistered and uninsured vehicles from Monday, June 1. Road Safety Minister, Michael O’Brien says all cameras on the network, including speed and red light cameras, can now be used to detect illegal vehicles on SA roads following legislative amendments passed by State Parliament last year."

Drink drivers locked out from today
Source: South Australia. Minister for Road Safety Minister. Media Release.
"Tough new laws to protect the public from drink drivers come into effect from today (May 1). The new laws will require a drink driver who has previously lost his or her licence, and has reoffended, to fit an alcohol interlock to their vehicle for a period of time equal to their last disqualification,” Mr O’Brien said. "

Initiatives to help combat violence
Source: South Australia. Minister for the Status of Women. Media Release.
"Minister for the Status of Women Gail Gago says five community education programs will be established using $50,000 in Government grants to teach young people about the importance of respectful relationships. This work will complement the Government’s reformed rape and sexual assault laws and the current review of domestic violence legislation."

Strategy for 86 more mental health beds unveiled
Source: South Australia. Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse. Media Release.
"The Rann Government has today released details of a four-year strategy to deliver 86 more adult mental health beds across South Australia. Today’s announcement provides the detail around the Social Inclusion Board’s recommendation for a new ‘stepped’ model of mental health care in South Australia."

Premier Announces $17.7 Million to Promote Respect
Source: Victoria. Premier. Media Release
"The Premier, John Brumby, unveiled a $17.7 million strategy to promote community respect, as part of the Victorian Government’s actions to build more resilient communities and address alcohol-related violence among young people. Mr Brumby said the Victorian Government’s Respect strategy would focus on strengthening the connection of young people with their communities through volunteering and programs to address juvenile offending. "

Racing Industry Plan Secures Country Racing's Future
Source: Victoria. Minister for Racing. Media Release
"The Brumby Government welcomed the release of the racing industry’s plan for the future of country race meetings and training infrastructure. Deputy Premier and Racing Minister Rob Hulls said the plan provided the industry with certainty and a secure future.“This is a plan by the industry and for the industry,” Mr Hulls said. “This is the first time that country race clubs have had a five-year blueprint outlining race dates, training track structure and maintenance funding, and country club meeting funding."

Tax Rates Closely Aligned Across Victorian Gaming Machine Industry
Source: Victoria. Minister for Gaming. Media Release
"The Brumby Government announced a broad package of changes to Crown Casino’s licence conditions, including a progressive increase in the tax rate on the Casino’s gaming machines, reflecting the maturing of the business and virtually equalising gaming taxes for Crown and gaming venue operators. Gaming Minister Tony Robinson said the new agreement on the casino gaming machine tax rate would see the rate rise from 22.25 per cent to 32.57 per cent in 2014-15. “This reform will result in tax rates being virtually equal for Crown Casino and other gaming venues,” he said."

Government Outlines Further Water Market Reforms
Source: Victoria. Minister for Water. Media Release
"The Brumby Government will legislate to remove the 10 per cent limit on the volume of Victorian water entitlements that can be owned without being associated with land. Water Minister Tim Holding said the Government had reviewed the 10 per cent Non-Water User Limit, taking into account community feedback through the Northern Region Sustainable Water Strategy’s consultation process. Having evaluated the limit and reviewed community feedback, we will now begin work immediately to legislate to remove the 10 per cent limit. The limit is not yet an obstacle to trade, but if it is reached in the 2009/10 irrigation season, it may cause problems for willing buyers and sellers.”

Cameron Launches New Alcohol Violence Campaign
Source: Victoria. Police Minister. Media Release
"The Brumby Government and Victoria Police have teamed up with AFL coaches in a new campaign to provide young men with tactics to avoid alcohol-fuelled violence and stay safe when out with friends. Police Minister Bob Cameron launched the new $2 million Your Move/Championship Moves campaign at the MCG, which provides young men with advice on avoiding alcohol-related violent confrontations."

More Than $926 Million to Tackle Disadvantage in Victoria
Source: Victoria. Premier. Media Release
"Major investments in protecting vulnerable children, mental health services and workforce participation are part of the Victorian Government’s $926 million A Fairer Victoria program to tackle social disadvantage."

Volunteers Receive $9.3 Million Victorian Government Boost
Source: Victoria. Premier. Media Release
"Making it easier for more Victorians to volunteer, especially young people, is a key focus of the Victorian Government’s new $9.3 million volunteering strategy launched. Marking the start of National Volunteer Week in Victoria, the Premier John Brumby and Community Development Minister Peter Batchelor released the Victorian Volunteering strategy, part of the Government’s Respect strategy. New initiatives in the volunteering strategy will include:• The Premier’s Community Volunteer Awards which will involve an independent assessment panel. The criteria will be developed in consultation with community and volunteering groups;• A new portal to include matching services, information and resources for community organisations and individuals wishing to volunteer;• A major awareness and recruitment campaign to promote community participation, particularly by young people;• Resources, support, and one-off grants to help community organisations attract more and younger volunteers."

Draft cane toad strategy for Western Australia 2009-19
Source: WA. Minister for Environment and Conservation
"The draft Cane Toad Strategy for Western Australia 2009-19 has been released for public comment.
The draft strategy outlines a 10-year management plan for cane toads and aims to provide an integrated response across the whole community to reduce the impact of the invasive species on biodiversity, social and economic values."

New initiative to increase women representation
Source: Tasmania. The Premier
"Premier David Bartlett today (7/5/2009)joined Local Government Association of Tasmania President Mike Gaffney, to unveil a new program that aims to increase the number of women standing at the 2009 Tasmanian local government elections. The program was launched at a meeting of the Premier’s Local Government Council (PLGC) in Hobart. "

Amphetamine-Type Stimulants and Related Drugs Strategy
Source: Victoria. Mental Health and Drugs Division. Strategy
"The Victorian Government is concerned about the illegal use of amphetamines, including crystal methamphetamine or ‘ice’. In February 2007 the then Premier announced a package of initiatives by the Victorian Government to prevent and respond to the use of amphetamines, including crystal methamphetamine or ‘ice’ One component of this package was the development of the Victorian amphetamine-type stimulant (ATS) and related drugs strategy 2009-2012.
The strategy outlines the Victorian Government’s comprehensive response to the use of ATS and related drugs and provides the framework for a comprehensive coordinated state-wide response to ATS use in Victoria, complementing existing frameworks and strategies, including the current national ATS strategy."

Victoria - The Green Jobs State: Seizing the Opportunities
Source: Victoria. Environment Victoria. Report
"The potential to generate 25,000 new jobs across five Victorian industries, and deliver substantial greenhouse gas emission cuts, has been outlined in a new report by a peak environmental lobby group. Environment Victoria’s report identifies through a series of case studies the potential to create the new jobs in the industries of: solar water heating; rail; energy and water efficiency in residential buildings; recycling and wind.
According to the report, increasing the percentage of the state’s households that use solar hot water heating from the present level of 3% to 30% by 2020 would treble the size of the current industry and create about 1500 new jobs in the industry. This would also result in savings of 1.8 million tonnes of emissions annually, the report says."

National Strategy on Energy Efficiency 2009- 2020 Memorandum of Understanding
Source: COAG. Strategy document
"The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) has endorsed the design of the expanded Renewable Energy Target and agreed to the introduction of new 6 star standards for houses and strengthened energy efficiency standards for commercial buildings at its recent meeting.
Work will immediately commence on five key measures to drive growth in the number of highly energy efficient homes and commercial buildings across Australia."

Joint Funding to Enrich Queensland Regional Arts
Source: Queensland. Premier and Minister for the Arts. Media Release
"Premier Anna Bligh and Australia Council for the Arts Chairman James Strong AO announced a new partnership between the Queensland Government and the Australian government that will provide joint funding of $1.5 million over three years for two initiatives: Regional Stages and Regional Writing. "

COAG secures a Compact with Young Australians
Source: Australia. Prime Minister. Media release
"Under the terms of the Compact, every Australian under the age of 25 will have a guaranteed education or training place.
This education and training guarantee will ensure anyone under the age of 25, including those who lose their job, will be able to take part in further education or training."

CARBON POLLUTION REDUCTION SCHEME: SUPPORT IN MANAGING THE IMPACT OF THE GLOBAL RECESSION
Source: Australia. Prime Minister. Media Release
"The Rudd Government will delay the start of the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme by one year to help Australian companies manage the impacts of the global recession."

FIRST GRANTS TO HELP INDUSTRY TACKLE CLIMATE CHANGE
Source: Australia. Innovation Minister. Media release
"Reducing reliance on town water through effective water recycling and harnessing the benefits of solar power are two popular initiatives amongst the 23 successful projects to be awarded over $3 million in Re-tooling for Climate Change grants. The $75 million Re-tooling for Climate Change program helps small and medium enterprises reduce their environmental footprint by improving the energy and/or water efficiency of their production processes."
For information on the Re-tooling for Climate Change program visit AusIndustry's website at http://www.ausindustry.gov.au

A new target for reducing Australia’s carbon pollution
Source: Australia. Minister for Climate Change and Water. Media Release
"The Rudd Government has today committed to reduce Australia’s carbon pollution by 25 per cent below 2000 levels by 2020 if the world agrees to an ambitious global deal to stabilise levels of CO2 equivalent at 450 parts per million or lower by mid century."

Helping all Australians do their bit on climate change
Source: Australia. Minister for Climate Change and Water. Media Release
"The Rudd Government will establish the Australian Carbon Trust to help all Australians to do their bit to reduce Australia’s carbon pollution and to drive energy efficiency in commercial buildings and businesses.
The Government will also take into account the contribution of individual households that purchase accredited GreenPower in setting Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme caps. "

Australian homes to benefit from Green Loans rollout
Source: Australia. Dept of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
"Green Loans is a new Australian Government initiative to help Australians tackle climate change.
The Green Loans Program will assist Australian families to install solar, water saving, and energy efficient products.

Becoming Asia Literate: Grants to Schools
Source: Australia. Minister for Education. Media Release
"The Minister for Education, Julia Gillard, today invited primary and secondary schools to apply for grants under the $6.24 million Becoming Asia Literate: Grants to Schools program.
Becoming Asia Literate: Grants to Schools is part of the Rudd Government’s $62.4 million National Asian Languages and Studies in Schools Program (NALSSP).
For more information about the NALSSP, visit www.deewr.gov.au/schooling/NALSSP "

Country age pensioners get $500 fuel card
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Regional Development
"Age pensioners living in regional Western Australia will be eligible for $500 a year to help with their travel costs following the launch of the Country Age Pension Fuel Card Scheme. Under the State Governments Royalties for Regions program $500 per eligible applicant will be provided each financial year for the next four years towards the cost of fuel and taxi fares."

First water education tool goes live in WA
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Water
"The interactive multimedia portal built by the Department of Water brings together resources from a range of water stakeholders in a single portal accessible through the department’s new website. The tool has different pathways to help teachers and students find the resources they need quickly and easily. The catalogue includes downloads, posters, activities and video with water-related information for society and environment, science and geography subjects. Initially the majority of resources will be suitable for high school students, but the age spread of resources will continue to grow throughout the year."

Regions to benefit from regional planning approach
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Planning
"The Liberal-National Government will establish four new regional planning committees in the State’s North to deal with major regional issues and projects. These committees will allow regions to build capacity to respond to global, national and state influences and thereby help secure the prosperity of regional communities. Importantly, regional planning committees will provide a platform for a collaborative approach to planning. They will bring local governments and people into the heart of planning for their regions, provide a voice and real influence in the development. develop.”

New Protocol for Judicial Appointments
Source: Tasmania. Attorney-General
"Attorney General Lara Giddings released a new protocol for judicial appointments in Tasmania. She said improving the process for judicial appointments was a key part of the Premier’s 10 point plan to restore public confidence in democracy and the State’s political processes."

Bligh changes rules to fast-track non-State schools approvals
Source: Queensland. Premier and Minister for the Arts and Minister for Infrastructure and Planning. Media Release
"Cabinet has amended State planning regulations allowing Queensland’s more than 460 non-State schools to fast-track the delivery of projects worth over $700 million, funded under the Federal Government’s $14.7 billion schools stimulus package. “The change now means that non-State schools will not have to go through the usual local government approval processes for new buildings on their schools sites,” said the Premier."

New ‘green era’ for govt building
Source: Queensland. Minister for Public Works and Information and Communication Technology. Media Release
"The State Government has begun a new ‘green’ era in the way it builds and fits out public buildings, Public Works Minister Robert Schwarten said today. Mr Schwarten said the Green Building Council of Australia’s 5-star Green Star excellence rating was now the standard for new government offices. Having buildings constructed or refurbished to these high-rating green specifications is now Public Works Department policy,” Mr Schwarten said."

Aggressive strategy announced to support tourism
Source: Queensland. Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading. Media Release
"“In Queensland we understand just how important tourism is to our regional economies and that is why the Premier recently pledged additional funding for Tourism Queensland of $36 million over three years to ensure tourism is supported. “Tourism Queensland already has an aggressive, results-driven strategy in place to guide the Queensland tourism industry through the challenges of the next 12 months. “This includes rolling out a series major retail campaigns to drive immediate sales to the tourism industry during this difficult time. “Tourism Queensland will increase its activity in both the interstate and intrastate markets to capitalise on the short-term opportunity created by the global economic crisis and the reduced value of the Australian dollar. “Tourism Queensland will also increase its activity in the two key international markets most likely to drive growth for Queensland tourism in the short term: New Zealand and China. “Marketing will be stepped up around major Queensland events to drive visitation to Queensland destinations. This activity will support and provide opportunities to both large and small tourism operators throughout Queensland.”

Jobs and housing bonanza
Source: Queensland. Minister for Community Services and Housing and Minister for Women. Media Release
"Work is underway on the biggest ever investment in social housing infrastructure since the Chifley era – the first phase of which will see the construction of 585 new social housing dwellings across Queensland by the middle of next year. This funding means that 141 new social housing dwellings will be built across Queensland by June 30, 2010. In addition, 444 new social housing dwellings will be delivered across the state by July next year at a cost of $138.6 million under the Stage One of the Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan."

Queensland signs up to Compact to guarantee youth employment
Source: Queensland. Premier and Minister for the Arts. Media Release
"The Bligh Government will take immediate action to ensure the economic future for young Queenslanders with a new entitlement for 20-24 year olds in training and education during the global financial crisis. Premier Anna Bligh said COAG had agreed to immediately implement a new Youth Compact to increase participation of Queenslanders aged between 15-24 in education, training and jobs. The Compact will guarantee that 15-24 year old Queenslanders will have an entitlement to Government subsidised education or training places, subject to admission requirements and course availability."

Premier Releases Road Map to Lift Qld Education Standards
Source: Queensland. Premier and Minister for the Arts. Media Release
"Premier Anna Bligh today released international expert Professor Geoff Masters’ recommendations for lifting education standards in Queensland’s primary schools. Professor Geoff Masters formally handed his final report A Shared Challenge: Improving Literacy, Numeracy and Science Learning in Queensland Primary Schools to Ms Bligh and Education Training Minister Geoff Wilson. The Premier commissioned Prof Masters to review Queensland’s curriculum and educational standards for the State’s primary school students following poor results in the 2008 National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN). The full report is available at http://education.qld.gov.au/mastersreview/ ."

National Framework for Protecting Australia's Children
Source: Australia. Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs. Media Release
"The Australian Government is providing $61.6 million over four years to help protect Australia's vulnerable children from child abuse and neglect under the National Framework for Protecting Australia's Children 2009-2020.The Council of Australian Governments today (30/4/09) endorsed the National Framework, an ambitious, long-term national approach to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of Australian children"

Coordinated National Action to Drive Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Uptake
Source: Australia. Prime Minister. Media Release
"The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) today took a major step forward towards Australia’s low pollution future.
COAG today endorsed the design of the expanded Renewable Energy Target and agreed to the introduction of new 6 star standards for houses and strengthened energy efficiency standards for commercial buildings.
Details of the draft National Strategy on Energy Efficiency and the RET are now available on the COAG website (http://www.coag.gov.au/). "

COAG AGREES TO ESTABLISH NATIONAL EMERGENCY WARNING SYSTEM
Source: Australia. Attorney-General. Media Release
"The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) today agreed to develop a national telephone emergency warning system.
The Commonwealth will invest up to $15 million to assist the States and Territories to establish the national system.
It will be operated on an ongoing basis by State and Territory authorities and will be developed following an open tender process."

Time for action: The National Council's plan for Australia to reduce violence against women and their children, 2009-2021
Source: National Council to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children
"For women in Australia, sexual assault and domestic and family violence are the most pervasive human rights violations. They harm and limit the lives of a third of Australian women, and require an immediate and focused response."