Religious freedom to be protected under equal opportunity changes
Source: Victoria. The Attorney General
"The Brumby Labor Government will better balance the right of individuals to be free from discrimination and the right to religious freedom under changes proposed to the Equal Opportunity Act. The changes would narrow the scope of the current religious exemptions to ensure that religious groups can no longer discriminate on the grounds of race, disability, age, physical features, political belief or activity, and breastfeeding.
But religious groups would continue to be able to discriminate on other grounds including sexuality or marital status if it was in accordance with their beliefs. Mr Hulls said that in striking the balance between religious freedom and protection from discrimination, it was recognised that religious groups should be allowed to discriminate on some grounds if it was in accordance with their beliefs. "

New exchange scholarship program for Indian students
Source: Premier of Victoria
Mr Brumby announced the Victorian Government would award five Victorian and five Indian undergraduate and high-level vocational education training students AUD$10,000 scholarships in 2009, as part of a new International Exchange Scholarship program. "Victoria places the highest importance on our relationship with India. Our two cultures share a common commitment to innovation and an energy and optimism to tackle the challenges of the future," Mr Brumby said. "It's crucial that both Victoria and India invest in our next generation of innovators and thinkers, as we forge stronger bonds and new solutions to secure the future. Understanding is a two way process, and we are keen to have Victorian students bring home a fuller understanding of India as well as Indian students of Victoria."

Premier Bartlett kick starts Dairy Fighting Fund
Source: Tasmania. The Premier
"The State Government's $50,000 contribution towards a fighting fund comes on top of work by Minister Llewellyn which includes:
Talks with dairy industry farmers to obtain grass roots understanding of what farmers are facing and action being taken,
Meeting with representatives from the TFGA Dairy Council and Tas Dairy,
Writing to and meeting with the CEO of National Foods over unacceptable prices being paid to local dairy farmers,
Writing to the CEOs of Fonterra and Cadbury's expressing concern on the low price offered for milk solids,
A plan to convene a Ministers' Advisory Committee composing government and dairy industry representatives to determine the needs of the dairy industry and the role the Government might play.
The State Govt has a long history of being there for farmers such as throughout the drought and the veggie campaign."

New $8 million project launched to restore local waterways
Source: Queensland. Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland
"The Honourable Tim Mulherin has officially launched the Healthy Country project. This project is supporting communities, farmers and scientists to work together to improve water quality in South East Queensland catchments and Moreton Bay.
Steps have already been taken to address these demands. Nitrogen loads to waterways have been reduced by 40 percent, urban stormwater or catchment management plans are in place for all major catchments in the region, and riparian zones are being rebuilt. To further secure our waterways, the Queensland Government is investing $20 million over four years to reduce pollution loads and improve the health of our waterways in South East Queensland. This investment includes $8 million for Healthy Country to take action in rural areas through waterway management and best practice management of the land."

Draft Queensland Planning Provisions
Source: Queensland. Dept Infrastructure and Planning
'The draft Queensland Planning Provisions will deliver a consistent set of definitions for each local authority, which will save time and money during local government planning. This means each new local government planning scheme will continue to reflect the local characteristics of the community, but will use common terms that everyone can understand. Under the new provisions there will be no confusion about terms like 'storey' on a house or 'home-based business'.
The Minister Mr Hinchliffe said the introduction of these new planning provisions would benefit all Queenslanders through improved clarity around the state and shared understanding to improve efficiency of the development assessment process. By introducing standard planning scheme provisions, councils will benefit from reduced planning costs and lower compliance costs through standardising applications."

Minister Announces $4 Million Dementia Package
Australia. Minister for Ageing. Media Release
"Minister for Ageing, Justine Elliot today announced a $4 million package for additional dementia research, information and support for people living with dementia and their carers. "

New Influenza Testing Equipment for all States and Territories
Source: Australia. Minister for Health and Ageing. Media Release
"The Australian Government will provide $1.4 million in funding to the National Influenza Centres and other public health laboratories to purchase automated influenza testing equipment. Every State and Territory will receive funding as part of this initiative. "

Taking Australian Children's TV to the World
Source: Australia. Minister for Trade. Media Release
"A high-powered television trade mission will visit South Korea this week to promote Australian expertise in children's television production.
The mission will be looking for opportunities to partner with Korean companies to deliver content through a range of emerging digital platforms “ including mobile phone technology."

School Nutrition Program
Source: Australia. Office of Evaluation and Audit (Indigenous Programs)
"The School Nutrition Program (SNP) program aims to contribute to improved school attendance and engagement by providing breakfast and lunch to school aged children in prescribed communities, and to provide employment opportunities for local Indigenous people. The SNP was a key measure of the Northern Territory Emergency Response (NTER) and is being implemented by Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR).
The audit found that the program had been implemented quickly under challenging conditions, however, it was difficult to draw clear connections between the activities of the program and its objectives of improved school attendance and engagement and local employment creation. The audit also found that more attention needed to be given to questions of capacity building and sustainability."

Voices from the campfires: Establishing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Healing Foundation
Source: Australia. Dept of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs
"The Australian Government today welcomed the release of a report on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Healing Foundation.Voices from the campfires: Establishing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Healing Foundation is the culmination of four months of consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.The report recommends that the new Foundation focus on funding grassroots healing initiatives, and health promotion, education and skills training in the prevention and treatment of trauma. "

Review of the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 issues paper
Source: Australia. Australian Education International
"ESOS regulates Australia's world class education and training sector's involvement with overseas students studying in Australia on student visas. It has helped to put Australia at the forefront of international education provision and provides a solid foundation for the sector.
The review, led by the former Federal Member for Cook, the Hon Bruce Baird, is an opportunity to further enhance the education quality and protection of international students.
The review considers the need for enhancements to the ESOS legal framework in four key areas set out in the Terms of Reference: Supporting the interests of students; delivering quality as the cornerstone of Australian education; effective regulation; and sustainability of the international education sector."

Strategic Framework for Access to Justice
Source: Australia. Attorney-General's Dept
"On 23 September 2009, the Attorney-General, the Hon Robert McClelland MP, released the report of the Access to Justice Taskforce, "A Strategic Framework for Access to Justice in the Federal Civil Justice System". The Attorney-General also released a summary of the Strategic Framework for Access to Justice. "

Crackdown on health “quacks”
Source: South Australia. Minister for Health. Media Release.
"Bogus health practitioners who exploit ailing and vulnerable South Australians will be banned from practising, and could be jailed, under new moves by the State Government. Health Minister John Hill announced today the Government would make legislative changes to crackdown on bogus doctors and practitioners who continue to treat patients after they have been barred."

Bill to change reproductive technology laws passes in Parliament
Source: South Australia. Minister for Health. Media Release.
"Legislation to change South Australia’s reproductive technology laws has passed in Parliament. The new bill includes provisions to allow the posthumous use by women of a deceased partner’s sperm, under certain strict conditions."

Green polluters
Source: South Australia. Attorney General. Media Release.
"The Rann Government’s attempt to ban political advertisements on public structures and public roads has fallen short because of opposition from the Liberal Party and the Greens. The ban on political advertisements in public places was a key element of the Electoral Bill, which is being debated in Legislative Council."

Students to chart their successes online
Source: South Australia. Minister for Education. Media Release.
"The State’s Year 10 students can build a secure online portfolio of their work, achievements and future aspirations through new web-based technology now available to schools. Studywiz ePortfolio is available to schools and teachers to use as an optional tool as part of the compulsory new SACE subject, Personal Learning Plan."

New SMS service for recreational fishers
Source: South Australia. Minister for Fisheries. Media Release.
"South Australian anglers will now have access to the latest fishing information via their mobile phones, to ensure they’re conforming to current regulations."

Tough new property damage laws in force
Source: South Australia. Attorney General. Media Release.
"Arsonist and vandals will now face harsher penalties under changes to property damage laws, which are expected to come into force within the next month."

Expanded powers for special justices
Source: South Australia. Attorney General. Media Release.
"Special Justices of the Peace will be given expanded authority to hear more cases in a move by the Rann Government to increase the efficiency of the criminal justice system in South Australia.
Attorney-General Michael Atkinson says Cabinet gave approval to introduce into Parliament amendments the Magistrates Court Act."

Fostering aboriginal leaders for the future
Source: South Australia. Minister Employment, Training and Further Education. Media Release.
"The State Government is encouraging more Aboriginal people to take on senior management roles, positions on boards and committees and other decision-making roles through a new on-line register of Aboriginal people and their skills and qualifications. Under the initiative, Aboriginal people can register their career interests and qualifications and be matched with public and private sector employers, boards and committees that are seeking applicants for positions."

More hurdles for drug makers
Source: South Australia. Attorney General. Media Release.
"The State Government is taking further action to cripple the illegal drug-trade by banning more than 60 chemicals from the shelves of illicit drug-laboratories. The Governor in Executive Council signed the regulatory changes to the Controlled Substances (Controlled Drugs, Precursors and Cannabis) Amendment Act 2008."

New measures to raise council accountability
Source: South Australia. Minister for State/Local Government Relations. Media Release.
"Local Government finances will be subject to tougher auditing checks under new legislation tabled in Parliament. The Local Government (Accountability Framework) Amendment Bill 2009 was designed to raise standards of management and accountability in South Australia’s councils."

Major literacy drive in SA schools
Source: South Australia. Minister for Education. Media Release.
"A new Literacy Secretariat will spearhead the State’s biggest ever push to improve the literacy achievements of South Australia’s school children. Education Minister Jane Lomax-Smith says the secretariat brings together literacy expertise from across the State education department to focus on literacy improvement."

Campaign & new laws against domestic violence
Source: South Australia. Attorney General. Media Release.
"The Rann Government is launching a multi-pronged approach to tackling domestic violence with today’s introduction of new laws designed to reduce assaults and increase protection complemented by an $868,000 anti-violence education campaign."

Liquor changes to enhance responsible service
Source: South Australia. Minister for Consumer Affairs. Media Release.
"It will be easier to determine whether someone requesting alcohol in licensed premises is drunk under one of many proposed changes to South Australia’s liquor licensing laws introduced to Parliament. Minister for Consumer Affairs Gail Gago says the move to clarify what intoxication is in the Liquor Licensing Act 1997 will promote more responsible service of alcohol in licensed premises and stronger enforcement – helping protect South Australian’s wellbeing and avert alcohol-fuelled crime."

Plan to regulate education and child care
Source: South Australia. Minister for Education. Media Release.
"All providers of education and child care services to young South Australians will be required to comply with new mandated requirements under legislative changes. A new independent authority will have powers to investigate and act on breaches of registration requirements, and will work with schools and services to ensure quality and continuous improvements in the best interests of the State’s children."

Knife laws up for public consultation
Source: South Australia. Attorney General. Media Release.
"The State Government is now seeking feedback from the public on proposed knife laws that aim to stop knife related violence from occurring on our streets. The proposed amendments to the Summary Offences Act (1953) include; banning the sale of knives to children under 16; police powers to use hand held metal detectors under specific circumstances and making it an offence to supply a knife to a person knowing that the person intends to use it to commit as serious offence."

NSW Lotteries transaction process begins
Source: New South Wales.Treasurer. Media Release.
"The State Government announced the launch of the formal process to select a suitably-qualified party to operate public lotteries in NSW. A new, exclusive 40-year licence would be granted to the successful applicant to distribute lottery products throughout the State."

NSW Lotteries sale passes NSW Upper House
Source: New South Wales. Treasurer. Media Release.
"NSW Treasurer Eric Roozendaal welcomed the passage of legislation for the sale of NSW Lotteries through the Legislative Council – describing the event as "historic". "The legislation strikes the right balance between protecting newsagents and protecting the value of NSW Lotteries for taxpayers," Mr Roozendaal said."

New Mobile Technology to Help Catch Unregistered and Stolen Vehicles
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Police. Media Release.
"Minister for Police Michael Daley announced the NSW Government would be trialling mobile automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) units in seven police cars across the state to catch drivers of unregistered and stolen vehicles. Mr Daley said the introduction of the new in-car technology was a smarter way to use police resources and catch those drivers flagrantly breaking the law."

NEW 10-DAY PLANNING APPROVALS FOR BUSINESS
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Planning. Media Release.
"NSW businesses can now save up to $4,500 each under 10-day planning approval laws.
Planning Minister, Kristina Keneally, said when moving into and fitting out a shop, businesses can now use a “checklist style” 10-day Code instead of lodging a Development Application."

Legislation Introduced to Combat Truancy
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Education. Media Release.
"The NSW Government will introduce legislation to give more flexibility to the Education Department and courts in dealing with cases of school nonattendance. The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, said the aim of the legislation was to get children back to school by focussing on the causes of non-attendance and introducing a wider range of intervention options."

Occupational licences abolished
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Regulatory Reform . Media Release.
"Regulatory Reform Minister Joe Tripodi said the Occupational Licensing Legislation Amendment (Regulatory Reform) Act 2009, has passed parliament with 5 licences no longer required. These seven licences were imposing unnecessary costs on NSW businesses, with only limited benefits for consumers," Mr Tripodi said."

Homeless to do charity work to pay off fines
Source: New South Wales. Attorney General. Media Release.
"Homeless and disadvantaged people in the community will be able to pay off fines by doing charity work or treatment programs under a scheme to be officially launched by the NSW Attorney General John Hatzistergos.“For people who are homeless, mentally ill or chronically poor the accumulation of debt through unpaid fines can be a real impediment to getting their lives back together,” Mr Hatzistergos said."

Court ordered drug treatment cuts re-offending
Source: New South Wales. Attorney General. Media Release.
"NSW Attorney General and Minister for Health John Hatzistergos welcomed the new report showing an innovative program to treat drug abuse by criminal defendants has successfully reduced re-offending rates in NSW. The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) released its evaluation of the court-based drug treatment program, Magistrates Early Referral into Treatment Program or MERIT."

NSW Government helping Aboriginal Communities to Speak Up on Child Sexual Abuse
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Corrective Services. Media Release.
"Speak Up, a new resource aimed at preventing and raising awareness about child sexual
assault in aboriginal communities was launched by the NSW Government in collaboration with indigenous community leaders . The DVD resource, funded and developed by Corrective Services NSW in partnership with a number of aboriginal communities, is part of the NSW Government’s response to the Breaking the Silence report into child sexual assault."

Mobile phone sniffer-dogs unleashed on NSW Correctional Centres
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Corrective Services. Media Release.
"In an Australian first the NSW Government will unleash mobile phone detecting dogs into the state’s correctional centres to stop phone trafficking."

New Powers to Protect Community Safety
Source: New South Wales. Premier. Media Release.
"Premier Nathan Rees announced that legislation would be introduced to Parliament today to give the Government new powers to protect public safety and cancel public housing leases in extreme cases. The move follows the extraordinary situation created by Dennis Ferguson’s public housing tenancy. Last week the Premier asked key portfolios to audit policies and legislation regarding sex offenders. Today’s amendment is the Government’s first response to the review."

Land rights law helps drive economic development
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. Media Release.
"NSW Parliament today passed amendments to the State's land rights legislation, paving the way for land councils to drive economic development and generate jobs. Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Paul Lynch said the amendments to the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 provided clearer and more certain processes for Aboriginal land councils to use when they deal with, dispose of or develop land."

Incentive for businesses employing people with a disability
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Disability Services. Media Release.
" Organisations with work forces made up mainly of people with disabilities will be exempt from competitive tendering to NSW Government agencies, Minister for Disability Services Paul Lynch said. Mr Lynch told a Budget Estimates hearing today that the initiative was expected to create hundreds of jobs."

Rees Government Ensures a Strong Future for NSW Racing
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Gaming and Racing. Media Release.
"The Rees Government announced a range of initiatives to help ensure the future growth and sustainability of the NSW racing industry. Gaming and Racing Minister Kevin Greene said the NSW Government’s response to an independent review of wagering policy and regulation brought great news for punters."

Liquor licence freeze for parts of City of Sydney
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister for Sport and Recreation. Media Release.
"The Government introduced the Liquor Amendment (Temporary Licence Freeze) Amendment Bill 2009 into Parliament. The Bill imposes restrictions on the granting of certain types of liquor licences and authorisations for premises located in designated freeze precincts within the City of Sydney local government area. The designated freeze precincts have significant numbers of licensed premises, particularly those with late night trading, and are identified trouble spots for alcohol-related anti-social behaviour and violence."

Keep Them Safe: Family Referral Services
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Communities and NSW Minister for Health. Joint Media Release.
"NSW Minister for Health, Carmel Tebbutt, and Minister for Community Services, Linda Burney, today announced the plans for piloting three Family Referral Services as part of the Government’s Keep Them Safe action plan to improve the safety and wellbeing of children in NSW. These regional referral services highlight the new unified approach towards child and family wellbeing, as advocated by Hon. James Wood AO QC in his Special Commission of Inquiry into Child Protection in NSW."

Caseworkers Undergo Training in Baby Management
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Community Services. Media Release.
"Hundreds of Community Services caseworkers across Sydney will undertake training on caring for infants during October and November. Minister for Community Services Linda Burney said the training will provide caseworkers with practical information related to the physical care of children."

Green Roofs to Provide a Cooler Future for Victoria
Source: Victoria. Minister for Environment and Climate Change. Media Release
"Imagine the roofs of Melbourne’s skyscrapers covered with trees, plants and lawn. That’s the vision of the future being examined by a ‘green roofs’ research project partly funded by the Brumby Labor Government. Environment and Climate Change Minister Gavin Jennings said the Government had contributed $120,000 over three years to the University of Melbourne’s Green Roof Research Program which will look at tackling climate change through planting vegetation on city roofs. Placing vegetation on the roofs of buildings is known to help cool the urban environment especially during summer heat waves. Green roofs also assist with building heating and cooling costs, improve the quality of stormwater flows which end up in our rivers, create an urban biodiversity habitat and help reduce noise."

Public Input Sought on Onshore Carbon Storage Regulations
Source: Victoria. Minister for Energy and Resources. Media Release
"“The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to help power stations reduce greenhouse gas emissions and move to a low-carbon future,” Mr Batchelor said. “The regulations underpin the Greenhouse Gas Geological Sequestration Act 2008 (GGGS Act) introduced last year and provide the framework for ensuring the right checks and balances are in place before carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects proceed in Victoria.“The regulations are about the storage of carbon and outline the requirements such as reporting and monitoring of projects once they are underway. “The development of these regulations will help ensure communities and the environment are protected, while also sending a clear signal to investors that we are committed to exploring CCS, ensuring Victoria can capitalise on new investment in CCS. The draft regulations will be open for public submissions for a month and during this time we will also be meeting with local councils and industry to seek feedback.”

Rioli Helps Indigenous People Kick Career Goals
Source: Victoria. Minister for Skills and Workforce Participation. Media Release
"Victoria’s indigenous community will be able to follow in football great Dean Rioli’s steps and kick their own career goals thanks to a new $1 million employment initiative funded jointly by State and Federal Governments. Skills and Workforce Participation Minister Jacinta Allan announced the Dean Rioli Aboriginal Employment Service (DRAES) as the agency that will deliver the $1 million Deadly Jobs, Deadly Pathways initiative to as many as 100 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander jobseekers.“With Victoria’s 30,000-strong indigenous community facing low school retention rates, lack of post school qualifications and, as a result, greater unemployment, I am pleased to be able to announce this new initiative that will encourage more indigenous people into employment,” Ms Allan said. Victoria is facing skills shortages in a number of areas including construction and the Deadly Jobs, Deadly Pathways initiative will develop and guide indigenous people into industries facing these shortages.”

Inquiry to Drive Victorian Jobs in Financial Services
Source: Victoria. Treasurer. Media Release
"A new inquiry to further improve the future of Victoria’s financial services sector will help to remove barriers to investment and create Victorian jobs despite the impact of the Global Financial Crisis. Treasurer John Lenders said he had requested the Victorian Competition and Efficiency Commission (VCEC) to conduct the inquiry as part of the Government’s commitment to removing unnecessary red tape and creating jobs in Victoria’s important financial services sector.“This inquiry will help the Brumby Labor Government identify new ways to position Victoria to capitalise on the economic recovery,” Mr Lenders said."

$77.2 Million Boost to Child Protection
Source: Victoria. Premier. Media Release
"An additional 200 workers and the introduction of a specialist child protection intervention team are features of a $77.2 million Brumby Labor Government boost to the child protection workforce announced to help keep Victoria’s most vulnerable children safe.
The announcement follows the release of the Ombudsman’s annual report, which flagged a number of concerns about the child protection system. Mr Brumby said the investment would relieve pressure points in the current system and would ensure Victoria’s most vulnerable children are protected."

Victoria Thinks Global for International Education
Source: Victoria. Premier. Media Release
"Premier John Brumby announced a $14 million boost to secure the long-term future of Victoria’s vital international education industry. Mr Brumby said Thinking Global: Victoria’s Action Plan for International Education would ensure Victoria could continue to build on its status as a leading destination of choice for students from all over the world.“This action plan will play a key role in driving growth in the number of students travelling here to make the most of Victoria’s world-leading research infrastructure,” Mr Brumby said."
Thinking Global: Victoria's Action Plan for International Education

New laws to boost community safety during a fire
Source: WA. Dept Emergency Services
A number of critical changes to the Bush Fires Act 1954 will reflect key recommendations of the Victorian Royal Commission.
The amendments include:
-The introduction of total fire bans
-Changes to the definition of the word 'property' to include Crown land and bush, as part of the State Government's ongoing fight against arson
-A revised fire danger rating system to include the terms 'severe' and 'catastrophic'

Assault a police officer and go to jail - starting today (22/09/09)
Source: WA. Attorney General, Police
"Offenders who assault and cause bodily harm to police officers, ambulance officers, transit guards, court security officers or prison officers will face mandatory minimum jail terms starting today. Attorney General Christian Porter said the new laws came into effect today after receiving royal assent from the Governor yesterday."

Consultation begins on roadside memorials
Source: ACT. Chief Minister
"The ACT Government recently made a commitment to develop a policy for the placement of roadside memorials. The policy will also outline how the views and impact on residents in adjacent properties are to be considered. The ACT Government would like to establish a formal and consistent approach for the handling of roadside memorials. Recognising that this is a sensitive subject, they are seeking a wider range of views before finalising the policy."

New deal to boost Queensland's clinical trials industry
Source: Queensland. Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy and Minister for Trade. Media Release
"Queensland is breaking into one of the world’s major markets for clinical trials of medical and pharmaceutical products and equipment. Trade Minister Stephen Robertson oversaw the signing of an agreement between Queensland Clinical Trials Network Inc. (QCTN) and the Kurume Research Park that will promote and further medical research collaborations between Queensland and Japan. "

Planning Policy on Healthy Waters Released
Source: Queensland. Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability. Media Release
"Queenslanders are being asked to have their say on how Governments can better provide for healthier waterways when planning urban development. Climate Change and Sustainability Minister Kate Jones released a Draft State Planning Policy for Healthy Waters for public comment. Ms Jones said the new planning policy would protect the ecological health of Queensland’s waterways by minimising pollution from urban stormwater."

Tough new powers to enforce wheel clamping for fine dodgers
Source: Queensland. Attorney-General. Media Release
"Legislation introduced into Queensland Parliamentwill grant State Penalties Enforcement Registry (SPER) officers greater power to enter, search and acquire information to locate and clamp vehicles. Attorney-General Cameron Dick announced in July the government will introduce new legislation to authorise SPER officers to clamp the wheels of vehicles belonging to debtors who refuse to pay their fines. “The proposed amendments introduced will give enforcement officers the power to clamp vehicles in public places, at debtors’ residences, corporate debtors’ places of business or any other location with the occupier’s consent,” Mr Dick said."

Moratorium on late trading applications to cut down on alcohol-fuelled violence
Source: Queensland. Premier and Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading. Media Release
"The Bligh Government has placed a freeze on applications by pubs and clubs seeking to stay open after midnight in a bid to further crack down on alcohol-fuelled violence.
Premier Anna Bligh said the moratorium on all Liquor Licensing applications for extended trading hours between 12am and 5am would be effective immediately and would remain in place for the next year, pending the outcomes of a Parliamentary Inquiry into alcohol-related violence. "

Environment, community and economy all winners with new planning Act
Source: Queensland. Minister for Infrastructure and Planning. Media Release
"A faster and smarter new Queensland planning system will be operational by year’s end following another major step forward. The final reading of the Sustainable Planning Bill 2009 was held in the Queensland Parliament today, with formal proclamation as an Act due within a fortnight. Minister for Infrastructure and Planning Stirling Hinchliffe said the new Sustainable Planning Act would improve long-term decisions about land use through superior coordination of local, regional and state planning interests. It also ensures regional and local plans allocate land for houses, jobs and protection of major environmental assets,” Mr Hinchliffe said."

Partnership to help the homeless
Source: Queensland. Minister for Community Services and Housing . Media Release
"Community Services and Housing Minister Karen Struthers told State Parliament of a new $200 million partnership with the Federal Government to help the homeless in housing hot spots around the state. Minister Struthers said the Bligh Government would bring on more street to home initiatives for homeless people in Queensland. “A number of people are doing it tough right now and we know what they’re going through. That’s why we’ve entered into this new partnership with the Federal Government,” she said. Together we’re investing more than $200 million over 4 years to tackle homelessness head on."

New blueprint to guide Qld’s LNG future
Source: Queensland. Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Employment and Economic Development and Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability. Media Release
"The Bligh Government unveiled a framework for a new liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry that could provide a significant boost to Queensland’s economy. “It is estimated that Queensland’s burgeoning LNG industry could offer as many as 18,000 direct and indirect jobs – including over 4,300 in the Darling Downs – South West Region alone,” the Premier Anna Bligh told State Parliament this morning.
“To support this potential and its exciting new industry - my Government is releasing our Blueprint for Queensland’s LNG Industry."

Electrical safety laws to protect Queenslanders
Source: Queensland. Attorney-General . Media Release
"New laws passed by State Parliament will protect Queenslanders from the dangers posed by faulty electrical appliances. Industrial Relations Minister, Cameron Dick said the amendments to the Electrical Safety Act 2002, will allow the immediate recall of unsafe electrical equipment in Queensland. “These amendments will allow the Government to order a mandatory recall notice if there is evidence a product on the market poses a risk to the community,” said Mr Dick. If Queensland’s Electrical Safety Office becomes aware that there is a potentially dangerous product on the market, as the responsible Minister I will now have the power to ensure it can be recalled immediately to avoid death and injury."

$2.86 billion roads program supports jobs in Brisbane and Ipswich region
Source: Queensland. Minister for Main Roads. Media Release
"Brisbane and Ipswich will benefit from a $2.86 billion roads program over the next two years, Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace said. Mr Wallace said the Bligh Government would continue its massive infrastructure investment with the launch of the record $18 billion 2009-10 to 2013-14 Roads Implementation Program (RIP).“This massive infrastructure spend will help sustain an average of 13,000 jobs in Brisbane and Ipswich over the coming year,’’ Mr Wallace said. Overall, this record $18 billion roads program will keep an average of 30,000 Queenslanders in jobs."

Tough new laws to make Queensland pools safest in Australia
Source: Queensland. Deputy Premier and Minister for Health. Media Release
"Acting Premier Paul Lucas announced that following the toughest pool safety review in 20 years, new safety regulations will start rolling out on the first day of summer. Mr Lucas said the first stage of the nation’s strictest safety regulations would be in place on December 1 with the second stage scheduled to start in late 2010. “Stage one will apply immediately to all new residential swimming pools from December 1 2009,” he said. “This will mean all new pools must meet the latest pool fencing standards, with clear and strict non-climbable zones above and adjacent to the fence. A more comprehensive second stage will follow a year later and we expect all affected Queensland pools to meet the new pool safety standards within five years, or sooner if sold or leased first."

New guidelines to ensure local firms get a fair go
Source: Australia. Dept Innovation, Industry, Science and Research
"The Australian Government is seeking comments on proposed new guidelines for import duty concession schemes to encourage a fair go for Australian industry and reduce costs for major projects, businesses and consumers. The proposed changes to the EPBS will encourage greater interaction between major project proponents and Australian businesses by ensuring clearer Australian Industry Participation Plans are in place up-front when projects are being designed."

New R&D Tax Credit: Consulting with stakeholders
Source: Australia. Minster for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research and the Treasurer
"Today the Rudd Government will begin consultation with key stakeholders on the detailed design features of the new R&D Tax Credit. Releasing the Research and Development Tax Incentive Consultation Paper, Treasurer Wayne Swan and Innovation Minister Kim Carr urged business and other stakeholders to make their voices heard on reforms to the scheme. Mr Swan said: "The new R&D Tax Credit is the biggest reform to business innovation support for more than a decade. It will boost investment, support jobs and strengthen Australian companies so they can take full advantage of new opportunities as the economy recovers. From 1 July 2010, the Government will replace the complex and outdated R&D Tax Concession with a simplified R&D Tax Credit which cuts red tape and provides a better incentive for all businesses to invest in research and innovation"

Historic reforms to telecommunications regulation
Source: The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy
Senator Stephen Conroy announced fundamental reforms to existing telecommunications regulations in the interests of Australian consumers and businesses.These reforms will drive future growth, productivity and innovation across all sectors of the economy by:
addressing Telstra's high level of integration to promote greater competition and consumer benefits; streamlining and simplifying the competition regime to provide more certain and quicker outcomes for telecommunications companies; strengthening consumer safeguards to ensure services standards are maintained at a high level; and removing redundant and inefficient regulatory red-tape.

Further measures to combat organised crime
Source: Australia. Attorney General
Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, has introduced legislation into the Parliament to more effectively prevent, investigate and prosecute organised crime activity, and target the proceeds of organised criminal groups.
The Crimes Legislation Amendment (Serious and Organised Crime) Bill (No. 2) 2009 implements measures agreed by State and Territory Attorneys-General and builds on organised crime measures introduced by the Rudd Government in June this year.

Phasing out old style water heaters
Source: ACT. Chief Minister
"Carbon-intensive water heaters will be phased out by the ACT Government as part of its commitment to protect the environment. The government has pledged that by 2010 all new houses in areas connected to natural gas will be fitted with low-emission water heaters. This will also apply to established houses once old water heaters have reached the end of the useful lives.
From 2012, low emission water heaters will also apply to new flats, apartments and established houses in areas not connected to natural gas. "

New scheme to strengthen community sector workforce
Source: ACT. Minister for Community Services
"The ACT Government has become the first Australian jurisdiction to implement a Portable Long Service Leave Scheme to assist child care and community sector organisations with workforce retention. The Minister said the Government was delivering on its commitment to set up the scheme and would introduce a bill into the Legislative Assembly next week.
"In the Territory, the community sector is a vital industry, providing critical health and community services, and employing a significant portion of the workforce. The development of a Portable Long Service Leave Scheme by the ACT Government will strengthen the capacity and sustainability of the sector.
"It will also assist in developing more career options for community sector workers by facilitating movement between organisations and providing more variety in work with greater prospects for promotion. "

Minister approves Cotter Dam DA with conditions
Source: ACT. Minister for Planning
Minister for Planning Andrew Barr has approved the Development Application for the proposed enlargement of the Cotter Dam. Exercising his call-in powers under the Planning and Development Act, Mr Barr has applied a number of conditions to the approval.
The conditions include:
· requiring a revised Noise Management Plan including measures which address noise and vibration from blasting
· measures for addressing noise and associated health concerns in relation to residences affected by 24 hour construction
· requiring ACTEW to provide details of landscaping remediation before work starts and
· a requirement for a Decommissioning Plan, including methods for salvage of artefacts which will be subject to inundation or construction impact.

New ACTION bus an Australian first
Source: ACT Chief Minister
"The first of 100 accessible and environmentally-friendly buses is now part of the ACTION fleet, Chief Minister and Minister for Transport, Jon Stanhope, announced today. The MAN Euro 5 clean diesel bus is the first of its kind to be used in Australia and is from the first batch built in the world. The bus is the latest available from manufacturer MAN Europe and is fully accessible and climate controlled. The new bus also exceeds the current Australian emissions standards. The Euro 5 standards are not due for implementation in Australia until 2011. "

Crime Does Pay - For Environmental Solutions
Source: Victoria. Minister for Environment and Climate Change. Media Release
"The Brumby Labor Government is seeking new and creative solutions to environmental issues that will be paid for by fines levied on companies or individuals found guilty in court of environmental pollution. Environment and Climate Change Minister Gavin Jennings said the Government was seeking fresh applications to further utilise alternative sentencing provisions of the Environment Protection Act."

Victoria Takes the Lead on Climate Change Adaptation
Source: Victoria. Minister for Environment and Climate Change. Media Release
"Finding solutions to the impacts of climate change and helping Victorians adapt to its challenges will be the focus of a new $5 million Brumby Labor Government climate change research centre.
Environment and Climate Change Minister Gavin Jennings said the Climate Change Adaptation Research Centre will be coordinated by Melbourne University and be a centre of excellence in developing solutions to the impact of climate change on Victorians."

Govt to Release Commonly-Requested FOI Documents
Source: Victoria. Attorney General. Media Release
"The Brumby Labor Government will build on its commitment to open and accountable government by proactively publishing frequently-sought information. Deputy Premier and Attorney-General Rob Hulls said all departments twice yearly would publish documents commonly sought under Freedom of Information requests in five key areas."

Sentencing Act to Recognise Impact of Hate Crimes
Source: Victoria. Attorney General. Media Release
"Victoria’s sentencing laws will be amended to explicitly recognise the significant damage that crimes motivated by hate cause victims and the wider community, Deputy Premier and Attorney-General Rob Hulls said. The Sentencing Amendment Bill 2009, to be introduced to Parliament, implements fully the Sentencing Advisory Council’s recommendations on crimes motivated by hatred or prejudice. The Sentencing Act 1991 will now explicitly list hatred and prejudice of people who share common characteristics as a factor that must be taken into account by a judge when sentencing."

Crimes Reforms to Ease Burden on Sexual Assault Victims
Source: Victoria. Attorney General. Media Release
"Reform of Victoria’s criminal law system will help reduce the trauma for victims testifying in sexual assault cases, Deputy Premier and Attorney-General Rob Hulls said. Amendments introduced into Parliament will make further improvements to criminal procedure and strengthen protections for complainants in sexual offence cases.“Victims of sexual assault can experience incredible added stress and trauma as their matters go through the justice system, and giving evidence in court can be devastating and have long term effects,” Mr Hulls said."

Young Men Warned About Irresponsible Gambling
Source: Victoria. Minister for Gaming. Media Release
"A new advertising campaign encouraging young men to stop and think about their gambling was launched by Gaming Minister Tony Robinson. Mr Robinson said the campaign targeted 18-24 year old men with the message that gambling irresponsibly could cost them a fun and active social life.“The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to tackle the personal and social cost of problem gambling and to ensure problem gamblers can access a comprehensive range of support services,” he said.“This latest campaign is part of our $37.5 million commitment to promote responsible gambling and is specifically targeted at young men, a group identified by independent research as at risk of gambling to excess."

Next Generation Trial to Keep Freight Moving
Source: Victoria. Minister for Roads and Ports. Media Release
"Roads and Ports Minister Tim Pallas released guidelines for the cutting-edge trial of longer B-double trucks to significantly improve the way goods are moved around the state. Mr Pallas said the Next Generation High Productivity Freight Vehicle Trial would keep the trucks on selected key routes in a move that will considerably reduce the number of freight vehicles on Victorian roads.“We understand that people are concerned about trucks on our roads, which is why the Brumby Labor Government is building a better and more efficient freight system to take trucks off our residential streets,” Mr Pallas said.“This world-leading trial will enable goods to be carried safely and more efficiently. It’s the beginning of a major change to the way we move freight. We recognise the importance of the industry to our economy and this is a significant commitment to tackling our future freight task."

Breaking Down Barriers in Victorian Schools
Source: Victoria. Minister for Community Services. Media Release
"Schools across Victoria will be even more welcoming to people with a disability thanks to a new Brumby Labor Government resource kit that was launched. Community Services Minister Lisa Neville and Education Minister Bronwyn Pike launched the Bar None Community Awareness Kit at North Melbourne Primary School. The kit aims to assist in breaking down any fears or barriers towards people with a disability. The Bar None Community Awareness Kit for Schools includes curriculum units for prep to year 8 students that are linked to the Victorian Essential Learning Standards, a professional development module, a teacher information booklet and a DVD featuring real-life stories about students with a disability, their families, teachers and principals."

Former State Wards Better Supported
Source: Victoria. Minister for Community Services. Media Release
"Victorians who grew up in institutional care during the last century will have access to new vital support services thanks to $7.1 million Brumby Labor Government funding boost. Community Services Minister Lisa Neville announced a new, dedicated, stand alone service for former state wards and a new Victorian Care Leaver Memorial would be constructed at Southbank.“The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to help former abused or neglected children in care and ensure unacceptable past practices never happen again,’’ Ms Neville. The development of this new service is the latest in the efforts of the Brumby Labor Government to support former state wards, acknowledge the trauma and hurt suffered and go come way towards rectifying the wrongs of the past.’’

10 Per Cent Limit on Water Trades Lifted
Source: Victoria. Minister for Water. Media Release
"The 10 per cent limit on the volume of Victorian water entitlements that can be owned without being associated with land will be lifted tonight. Water Minister Tim Holding said Goulburn-Murray Water would begin processing more than 400 water trades from tomorrow that were put on hold until the Water Amendment (Non Water User Limit) Bill 2009 came into effect. “The Brumby Labor Government is working to ensure farmers and regional communities can meet the challenges of ongoing drought and climate change,” Mr Holding said.“Irrigators are making important decisions about their future in changing conditions and continuing drought, and they are looking for more flexibility. Removing the 10 per cent non-water user limit will provide more choice for irrigators who want to buy more water or those who want to sell their water entitlements."

New National Fire Warning System for Victorian Communities
Source: Victoria. Premier. Media Release
"The Premier, John Brumby, announced that Victoria was implementing a new national framework for fire warnings for the next bushfire season following an agreement by all Australian States and Territories. Mr Brumby said the fire danger rating system would have a new category of ‘catastrophic’ (code red) to warn communities of the risk of fires that are unpredictable, uncontrollable and fast moving. “The task for all levels of Government, for communities and for individuals is to make the state and individuals as fire-safe as possible,” Mr Brumby said. The new fire warnings system will provide the community with a better understanding of the level of bushfire threat on any given day based on the forecast weather conditions."

$1.9m funding injection for fantastic plastic solar research
Source: Queensland. Treasurer and Minister for Employment and Economic Development. Media Release
"A $1.9 million grant has been awarded to University of Queensland (UQ) researchers who are leading an international team developing a cheap solar cell made out of plastic. The team – involving researchers from Brisbane, Townsville, Cairns, Canberra, Melbourne and the United States – are working on a special type of plastic that is capable of capturing the sun’s energy. If the three-year project is successful, it could make tapping into solar energy easier and cheaper for householders and industry."

Evidence boosts case for restraining kids in cars
Source: Queensland. Minister for Transport. Media Release
"A national package of new road safety laws announced by Transport Minister Rachel Nolan will make car travel safer for young children in Queensland. Ms Nolan said new child restraint laws were the result of a national review and would improve safety through the use of child restraints and booster seats between the ages of one and seven. Ms Nolan said an extensive study by the Medical Journal of Australia found that premature graduation of children into adult seatbelts greatly increased the risk of injury or death. “There is clear evidence that a properly-fitted restraint can improve your child’s chances of surviving a serious crash by up to 50 per cent,” Ms Nolan said. The new child restraint laws require all children up to seven to be appropriately seated in an Australian Safety Standard approved child restraint or capsule, according to their age and size."

New fatigue campaign to open drivers' eyes
Source: Queensland. Premier and Minister for Transport. Media Release
"Tired drivers – who can be as much of a danger on the road as drunk drivers – will be targeted in a new holiday road safety campaign. Premier Anna Bligh and Minister for Transport Rachel Nolan launched the $1.3 million campaign, saying it would be a key part in keeping people safe on the road during the school holidays. Research showed fatigue was a major killer on Queensland roads and getting behind the wheel after 17 hours without sleep had the same effect on a person's driving as having a blood alcohol level of 0.05."

New Fund Focuses on Next-Generation Innovation
Source: Victoria. Minister for Innovation. Media Release
"Research into health, sustainability and productivity issues will be the focus of a new $25 million Brumby Labor Government science and technology fund. Innovation Minister Gavin Jennings said Victoria’s Science Agenda (VSA) Strategic Project Fund would support the acquisition of world class research facilities and equipment, the advancement of high level skills and the development of next-generation technologies. Through the Strategic Project Fund the Government will provide a competitive round of funding aimed at establishing new science and technology capabilities to solve major challenges faced by Victoria in the areas of health, sustainability, and productivity."

New Grant Program to Assist Victorian Biotechnology
Source: Victoria. Minister for Innovation. Media Release
"A new $500,000 Brumby Labor Government pilot program will help Victoria’s small-to-medium-sized biotechnology companies compete in global markets, Innovation Minister Gavin Jennings announced today. Mr Jennings said the Biotechnology International Partnering Program (BIPP) would provide grant assistance for eligible Victorian companies to attend recognised overseas biotechnology conferences and trade events. “The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to ensure Victoria remains at the forefront of the Australian biotech industry by supporting the growth and global potential of our biotechnology companies,” Mr Jennings said. Under the BIPP Victorian companies will be able to participate in international events such as trade fairs and conferences which may have been out of their reach previously. It will also allow them to the select events that best suit their needs."

Japan and Victoria to Collaborate on Clean Energy
Source: Victoria. Minister for Energy and Resources. Media Release
"The Brumby Labor Government has signed two ground-breaking agreements with Japan that strengthen global efforts to reduce future greenhouse gas emissions from coal-fired power generation. Speaking from Japan, Energy and Resources Minister Peter Batchelor said that under a new Memorandum of Understanding, the Victorian Government and Japan Coal Energy Centre (JCOAL) would collaborate on clean coal technologies. These agreements are an exciting opportunity for Victoria, putting us at the forefront of clean-coal technology development, which will help us attract further investment and create new jobs."

New Project to Conserve Islands' Natural Values
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Environment, Parks and Heritage
"The State Government has announced a major conservation initiative to better protect the natural values of Tasmania's islands. The Minister said the Islands Project was a partnership between the Tasmanian Government, Conservation Volunteers Australia, Natural Resource Management North, the University of Tasmania, and the Bookend Trust, and was first announced by the Premier in his 2009 State of the State Address. The partners have jointly committed $350,000 as the first stage to fund volunteer conservation works across the Tasmanian archipelago. The partnership will engage international and local volunteers, students and the philanthropic and corporate sectors in long term, practical and research-based conservation activities in Tasmania and the off-shore islands."

Technology Cluster positions Canberra as centre of Australian e-governance and innovation
Source: ACT. Chief Minister
"ACT Deputy Chief Minister, Katy Gallagher MLA, has launched the Australian e-Government Technology Cluster based at National ICT Australia (NICTA) Canberra. The ACT Government was providing $150,000 to help establish the Cluster in 2009-10, with a commitment for a further $100,000 per annum through to 2011-12. The e-Government Cluster is a partnership between NICTA, the ACT Government, several major international companies, innovative ACT companies and other research organisations to develop and demonstrate novel e-Government solutions. "

New Hi-Tech Security Measure to Tackle Licence Fraud
Source: Victoria. Minister for Roads and Ports. Media Release
"The use of state-of-the-art facial recognition technology and a new and more secure driver licence card will spearhead a Brumby Labor Government bid to tackle fraud and boost identity security in Victoria. Roads and Ports Minister Tim Pallas announced that from late November, a new look driver licence card with improved security features would be produced at a centralised, secure facility and could no longer be issued over the counter."

Organisations Urged to Find Out About New Grants Program
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Community Services. Media Release.
"Minister for Community Services Linda Burney is inviting community groups to learn how they
could benefit from up to $300,000 under a State Government funding program. The Community Builders Program is designed to build strength and capacity in local communities by funding organisations to run projects that respond directly to the needs of their
local community."

NSW Government to Attack the State's Road Toll
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Police. Media Release.
"Minister for Police Tony Kelly and Minister for Roads Michael Daley today announced a 30-point action plan to improve road safety for NSW motorists and take urgent action to address the State’s rising road toll."

New measures to make swimmers Shark Smart
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Primary Industries. Media Release.
"The NSW Government will introduce a range of measures, including the first ever public education campaign, to help keep swimmers safe this summer, Minister for Primary Industries Ian Macdonald, announced."

NSW government delivers tasers for NSW police
Source: New South Wales. Premier. Media Release.
“NSW police today took possession of almost 2,000 Taser stun guns – a $10 million NSW Government investment ensuring frontline officers have the state-of the-art equipment they need. The NSW Government makes no apology for supporting our frontline officers on the beat,” Mr Rees said.”

100,000 reasons to put 'IT' to the test
Source: New South Wales. Premier. Media Release.
“In an Australian first, Premier Nathan Rees will launch a $100,000 competition today looking for better ways to provide government information to the public. The APPS for NSW competition will encourage software developers to come up with new and innovative ways to store, use and analyse Government data on the latest technologies.”

MOU signing creates better housing for Anangu
Source: South Australia. Minister for Housing. Media Release.
“Following two years of ground-breaking negotiations, the State Government and the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Executive Board last week signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Residents of new houses will receive support to help make their tenancies a success and they will be assisted with homemaker and family support education.”

Consumer conciliation powers for Commissioner
Source: South Australia. Minister for Consumer Affairs. Media Release.
“South Australians will be better protected by a more powerful Commissioner for Consumer Affairs backed by tougher penalties.Minister for Consumer Affairs Gail Gago announced the reforms today including powers to compel traders to attend a conciliation conference and authority to immediately suspend occupational licences where consumers are at significant risk.”

Drought initiative draws on peers as mentors
Source: South Australia. Minister for Agriculture. Media Release.
“The South Australian Government has announced a $360,000 program to provide one-on-one mentoring support to drought-affected families. The Family and Business Mentor program – to be known as FaB Mentors - is a peer-support service for drought-affected families feeling stuck in their decision-making.”

Tough new penalties for water theft
Source: South Australia. Premier. Media Release.
“The State Government is massively increasing penalties for water theft – bringing the maximum fine for stealing water to $2.2 million. Currently the maximum fine for stealing water is $35,000 for an individual and $70,000 for a corporation.”

Rann introduces Lobbyist Code of Conduct
Source: South Australia. Premier. Media Release.
“Premier Mike Rann has announced a rigorous lobbyist code of conduct with stringent rules governing their work and how they interact with Ministers and other Government representatives. Mr Rann says the Code of Conduct will see the establishment of a public Register of Lobbyists, as well as impose strict rules about former Ministers and Government executives engaging in lobbying activity after leaving public employment.”

Mobile phone ban kicks in for L & P1 plate drivers
Source: South Australia. Acting Minister for Road Safety. Media Release.
“The ban on Learner and P1 platers in South Australia using mobile phones while they’re driving comes into force next week. Acting Road Safety Minister, Paul Caica says the ban, effective from this Monday 31 August, is part of the State Government’s measures to further strengthen the Graduated Licensing Scheme (GLS) for young drivers in South Australia.”

Night time restrictions to improve safety
Source: Queensland. Minister for Transport. Media Release
"Skateboards, roller-blades and foot scooters will be banned from Queensland roads after dark, Minister for Transport Rachel Nolan said. Ms Nolan said in an effort to further improve safety on Queensland roads, the State Government will ban riders of wheeled recreation devices from riding at night or on a road with a speed limit greater than 50km/h at any time."

“Battered person” defence to be introduced into Queensland law
Source: Queensland. Premier. Media Release
"A legal defence for people who commit murder as a result of domestic and family violence will be introduced into the Criminal Code, in a serious significant reform announced by the Queensland Government. Premier Anna Bligh and Attorney-General Cameron Dick said the amendment to the Criminal Code would see the introduction of a new partial defence reducing murder to manslaughter, for victims of seriously abusive relationships who kill their abusers.
“The new battered persons defence will provide an important additional protection for victims of seriously abusive relationships who use violence against their abusers,” said Ms Bligh."

Tough new laws to tackle youth crime
Source: Queensland. Minister for Community Services and Housing . Media Release
"Sweeping reforms to tackle youth crime have been passed in State Parliament, Community Services Minister Karen Struthers said.
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 wider 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.
“We’ve listened to the community and have taken their concerns on board. There were tough issues at stake that called for tough measures. That’s what these reforms are all about,” Ms Struthers said."

Positive step towards fairer domestic building contracts
Source: Queensland. Minister for Public Works and Information and Communication Technology. Media Release
"Public Works Minister Robert Schwarten signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Queensland Building Services Authority, the Queensland Master Builders Association and the Housing Industry Association to develop fairer domestic building contracts. Mr Schwarten said during the past six months the BSA, Master Builders and the HIA have been in discussions to develop fairer contracts. “Extensive consultation has occurred between these two associations and the industry regulator, the BSA, and I acknowledge their valuable contribution and cooperation in agreeing upon a series of principles to drive contractual reform in the domestic building sector,” he said. "

Amendments to the Criminal Code clarify the legality of medical procedures
Source: Queensland. Attorney-General. Media Release
"The Queensland Parliament passed the Criminal Code (Medical Treatment) Bill which ensures that Queensland doctors are allowed the same defence for medical treatments as they are currently for surgical operations. Attorney-General Cameron Dick said this amendment was introduced to Parliament on Tuesday night and debated, due to the urgency of ensuring certainty for doctors and nurses who provide medical care in Queensland. “The clarification of this law is designed to ensure that doctors can continue to provide medical care as usual in hospitals across Queensland,” Mr Dick said. "

Legislation passed to benefit victims of crime
Source: Queensland. Attorney-General. Media Release
"Queensland Parliament passed changes to the state’s compensation system for victims of crime. The sweeping reforms to benefit victims, are the most significant changes in more than a decade. Attorney-General Cameron Dick said the Victims of Crime Assistance Bill 2009 provides the legal framework to establish a new scheme called Victim Assist Queensland which will provide more timely and effective support for victims."

Local government reform to strengthen Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island councils
Source: Queensland. Minister for Local Government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships. Media Release
"Expansive reform of Queensland’s local government sector continues, with a review about to get underway into two pieces of legislation covering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island councils. Local Government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Minister Desley Boyle has announced reviews of the Local Government (Aboriginal Lands) Act 1978 and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities (Justice, Land and Other Matters) Act 1984. Both have provisions that are out-of-date and contradict provisions of the Local Government Act 2009. Ms Boyle said some provisions in the two pieces of legislation overlapped including in the areas of hunting and gathering rights and the power of councils to employ community police to enforce local laws."

Australia:The Healthiest Country by 2020 - National Preventative Health Strategy - the roadmap for action
Source: Australia. Dept of Health and Ageing
"The National Preventative Health Strategy provides a blueprint for tackling the burden of chronic disease currently caused by obesity, tobacco, and excessive consumption of alcohol. The Strategy's recommendations are directed at primary prevention and will address all relevant arms of policy and all available points of leverage, in both the health and non-health sectors."

Phone Lines Now Open for Free Small Business Support
Source: Australia. Minister for Small Business, Independent Contractors and the Service Economy. Media Release
"A free service offering small business advice and support over the phone was officially launched by Small Business Minister Dr Craig Emerson today."

Free broadband internet for seniors
Source: Australia. Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs. Media Release
"The Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, today unveiled the first of the Australian Government's free internet kiosks for seniors at the Melbourne Legacy Club.Under the Australian Government's Broadband for Seniors initiative, $15 million is being invested over three years to install up to 2000 kiosks across the country."

Australian Government Bargaining Framework Released
Source: Australia. Acting Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations. Media Release
"The Acting Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Senator Mark Arbib, has today released the new Australian Government Bargaining Framework for the Australian Public Service (APS).
The Bargaining Framework sets out Australian Government policy as it applies to workplace relations arrangements in the APS and is designed to ensure fairness and flexibility."

2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission’s Interim Report: Commonwealth Response
Source: Australia. Attorney-General. Parliamentary Secretary for Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction. Report
"The Commonwealth today provided its response to the Interim Report of the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission.
The response addresses recommendations of primary relevance to the Commonwealth, with implementation plans for each recommendation as requested by the Commission.
It also outlines actions by the Commonwealth in support of a number of recommendations directed to Victorian Government responsibilities."

More than $1 million extra to fight cane toads
Source: Australia. Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Joint media release
"The Rudd Government today announced more than $1 million in extra funding to help slow the advance of cane toads into Western Australia, Queensland and NSW."

New Institute to ensure ACT continues to have the best teachers
Source: ACT. Minister for Education and Training
"All teachers in ACT public and non-government schools will be registered with the establishment of the ACT Government’s Teacher Quality Institute, expected to open in early 2011. The Institute will have responsibility for teacher registration, ensuring teacher’s qualifications meet new minimum national standards and accrediting teacher training courses delivered in the ACT. The ACT Government has taken the first step in establishing the institute, advertising for a Senior Project Manager to work with stakeholders such as the Department of Education and Training, the non-government school peak groups, the University of Canberra and parents groups to scope out possible operating models for the institute."

Companion Card launched in the ACT
Source: ACT Minister for Disability
John Hargreaves has today launched the ACT Companion Card Scheme.
The companion card, funded by ACT Government through the Department of Disability, Housing and Community Services - is specifically for people with a significant, permanent disability who require attendant care support from a companion to access community ticketed activities, events and venues. Cardholders can show their card at participating businesses or venues to be issued with a second ticket for their companion at no charge.

Wind turbine decision welcomed
Source: Tasmania. The Premier
Premier David Bartlett and Minister Assisting the Premier on Climate Change Lisa Singh today welcomed the decision by the Sullivan Cove Waterfront Authority (SCWA) to grant a permit for wind turbines on the top of Hobart’s Marine Board building.
“This is the sort of thinking that will allow Tasmania to stamp itself into the global imagination on renewable energy,” Mr Bartlett said.
“We already lead the nation in production of renewable energy and this helps keep Tasmania at the forefront of dealing with the issue of climate change,” he said.

New Tourism Marketing for Tasmania Launched
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Tourism and the Arts,
Michelle O’Byrne, together with Tourism Tasmania’s CEO, Felicia Mariani, today launched Tasmania’s new tourism brand positioning and a national campaign for the coming months, valued at around $2 million. Ms O’Byrne said the new brand positioning and campaign, which will showcase Tasmania’s internationally recognised destinations and experiences to people interstate, will change the way Australian consumers look at our Tasmania and create a sense of immediacy to travel here.
“Tasmania has enjoyed a strong and sustained tourism performance over the past decade. If we want to continue to outperform our national counterparts and build a strong and prosperous tourism industry, we need to create new strengths and give visitors more reasons to visit - and to visit now,” she said.

Joint statement - State Government invests in sustainable transport future.
Source: WA Portfolios of Transport and Commerce
Transport Minister Simon O’Brien today officially launched the State Centre for Research into Energy for Sustainable Transport (CREST) at Murdoch University. Mr O’Brien said the State Government’s $2.29million investment in this important centre would enable Murdoch University to unite the State's leading researchers in transport fuels and technologies.
“Today’s transport industry faces many challenges, particularly with regards to the development and delivery of alternative transport fuels and markets,” he said.
“The State Government is committed to fostering the development of new transport technologies, improving environmental efficiencies and sustainable productivity is one way of doing this.”

New battery recycling bins for Perth
Source: WA. Dept of the Environment
"Environment Minister Donna Faragher today launched a new recycling initiative to encourage Perth residents to recycle common household batteries. The Metropolitan Household Battery Recycling program, the first community-based program of its kind in Australia, provides householders with the opportunity to safely dispose of and recycle old batteries.
Under the program, being rolled out by Perth’s five metropolitan regional councils, 150 new battery drop-off recycling bins have been installed in public libraries, council administration offices and leisure centres across Perth. From the bins, the batteries are collected, sorted, melted and recycled into new products. "

Industry invited to comment on draft agriculture and food plans
Source: WA. Minister for Agriculture and Food
Agriculture and Food Minister Terry Redman has urged Western Australia’s agriculture and food industries to have input into the State Government’s plans to support the future development of their multi-billion dollar sector. Mr Redman today released four draft industry plans and invited feedback on the State Government’s ‘Plans to Support Industry Development’ for horticulture, grains, livestock and food for the next three years.
“The aim of these plans is to set out clearly what Government needs to do to see our agriculture and food industries grow,” he said. “We have one of the most innovative and successful agriculture and food industries in the world. But to maintain our competitiveness, this Government wants to ensure we are continually cutting red-tape and investing in world-class research and development. The draft plans identify some of the opportunities for our industries. For example, the draft plan for grains shows industry has the potential to generate an additional $1billion for the WA economy each year and create 7,600 jobs. I want the final plan to articulate exactly what actions Government can take to help realise that potential.”

Draft Indigenous Economic Development Strategy
Source: Northern Territory. Minister for Regional Development
"Some of the key directions within the Draft Strategy include an Action Plan addressing issues such as land access, commercial partnerships, infrastructure and service delivery, business support and work readiness.
Mr Hampton said the new draft strategy builds on the first NT Indigenous Economic Development Strategy launched in 2005."

Wireless Access Boost For All Primary Schools
Source: Victoria. Minister for Education. Media Release
"Classrooms across Victoria will soon surpass the modern office thanks to a $7 million wireless access point upgrade to all Victorian Government primary schools, the Minister for Education, Bronwyn Pike, revealed while visiting Merri Creek Primary School. Ms Pike said up to 7,300 wireless access points (WAPs) delivered to schools this month are set to boost network coverage and capacity for students who access the web. “The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to provide schools with access to the very best modern technology,” Ms Pike said."

Proposed Reforms to Modernise Victoria's Planning Act
Source: Victoria. Minister for Planning. Media Release
"The Brumby Labor Government released five response papers that set out proposed reforms to improve and modernise the Planning and Environment Act 1987. Planning Minister Justin Madden said the proposed reforms were prepared in response to 150 submissions to the discussion paper Modernising Victoria’s Planning Act released in March 2009. “The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to cut-red tape and improve the efficiency of the Planning and Environment Act 1987,” Mr Madden said."

New Road Rules to Improve Safety on Victoria's Roads
Source: Victoria. Minister for Roads and Ports. Media Release
"Changes to road rules around U-turns, navigation devices and mobile phone use will be introduced in November this year as part of a Brumby Labor Government commitment to improving safety on Victorian roads. Roads and Ports Minister Tim Pallas said the changes were the result of a comprehensive assessment of the road rules, focusing on improved safety, consistency and common sense. The changes include tightening regulations around hand-held mobile phone and navigation devices use and provide consistency to overtaking and U-turn rules.”

Efficient Local Government Regulations Focus of Inquiry
Source: Victoria. Treasurer. Media Release
"The Victorian Competition and Efficiency Commission has commenced a review of the impact of local government regulations on Victorian businesses to identify potential opportunities for a more efficient system, Treasurer John Lenders announced. Mr Lenders said the VCEC inquiry demonstrated the Brumby Labor Government’s ongoing commitment to removing unnecessary administrative requirements for the Victoria’s businesses as shown by the Reducing the Regulatory Burden initiative.“This inquiry will consider the scope for further streamlining of regulation and processes administered by local government that impact on business including small businesses, such as home based businesses,” Mr Lenders said."

Government Introduces a Lobbyist Code for Victoria
Source: Victoria. Premier. Media Release
"The Premier, John Brumby, announced the Victorian Government Professional Lobbyist Code of Conduct and Register of Lobbyists would be introduced in Victoria, to further strengthen accountability in the State. Mr Brumby said the Victorian Government was again strengthening the democratic institutions of the State by increasing transparency and accountability among the lobbying industry."