PRACTICAL AND ACCESSIBLE HOMES FOR ALL VICTORIANS
Source: Victoria. Minister for Planning. Media Release
"Victorians are set to benefit from more practical and accessible homes under proposed new Brumby Labor Government building regulations. Planning Minister Justin Madden released a Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) for comment to look at making low-cost accessibility features compulsory in new Victorian homes to achieve smarter design, accessibility and affordability.“The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to make new homes more sustainable and accessible for all Victorian families,’’ Mr Madden said. A well designed house with accessible features means it can meet the changing needs of families from raising small children, to ageing parents or people living with a disability.’’

SECURING THE FUTURE FOR VICTORIA’S TIMBER INDUSTRY
Source: Victoria. Minister for Agriculture. Media Release
"The Brumby Labor Government released a Timber Industry Strategy which provides a new long-term direction for Victoria’s timber industry with a focus on resource security. Agriculture Minister Joe Helper said the new strategy would help underpin the future viability of the state’s timber industry and establish Victoria as a world leader in sustainable timber industries.“The Brumby Labor Government understands the importance of Victoria’s timber industry to regional and rural communities and that’s why we are taking action to secure its long-term future,” Mr Helper said. Our vision is for a productive, competitive and sustainable timber industry, based on secure and sustainable native and plantation forests."
Timber Industry Strategy

QUEEN TO BE REMOVED FROM LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Source: Victoria. Acting Premier. Media Release
"Criminal legal proceedings will no longer be brought in the name of the Queen and instead be brought in the name of the Director of Public Prosecutions under changes to come into effect on 1 January, 2010. Acting Premier and Attorney-General Rob Hulls said the change was part of the Brumby Labor Government’s commitment to modernise and simplify laws.“Referring to the Queen is outdated,” Mr Hulls said. Substituting the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for the Queen or Regina reflects the legal and political independence from the United Kingdom and its monarch that has been achieved by Australia.”

DRUG DRIVERS FACE TOUGHER NEW PENALTIES IN 2010
Source: Victoria. Minister for Roads and Ports. Media Release
"Tougher new penalties targeting drug drivers, including an automatic three month licence suspension and fines of at least $350, will be introduced to Parliament early next year. Roads and Ports Minister Tim Pallas said the introduction of the new laws would give Victoria Police extra powers to keep Victoria’s roads safe from dangerous drug drivers.“We are taking action against drug drivers to make Victoria’s roads safer for the overwhelming majority of drivers who do the right thing,” Mr Pallas said. One or more illicit drugs are found in 30 per cent of drivers who die on Victoria’s roads each year. In fact, there are more drivers killed with illicit drugs in their bodies than drivers with illegal levels of alcohol."

NEW SMOKING BANS IN CARS FROM 1 JANUARY TO PROTECT CHILDREN
Source: Victoria. Minister for Health. Media Release
"People will be banned from smoking in motor vehicles with children under 18 when new tobacco laws come into force on January 1, 2010. Health Minister Daniel Andrews and Quit Victoria Executive Director Fiona Sharkie today said the legal change would help protect children from exposure to second-hand cigarette smoke.“The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to reduce the impact of tobacco-related harm to the Victorian community, particularly among children,” Mr Andrews said. This new law will mean that no-one is allowed to smoke in a motor vehicle if a person under 18 is present."

GOVERNMENT ADOPTS VERTIGAN’S RECOMMENDATIONS
Source: Victoria. Treasurer. Media Release
"The Victorian Government announced it would take action to implement all recommendations made by Dr Vertigan’s review of the compensation framework in a move to ensure employees of the Victorian Funds Management Corporation (VFMC) received appropriate remuneration for the organisation’s investment returns and performance. Treasurer John Lenders said it was appropriate to fairly reward those employees in the public service who had provided strong financial returns for the state and that performance bonuses must be linked to investment outcomes. Mr Lenders said the VFMC had cooperated fully with the review and was satisfied the new leadership of the VFMC, including the recent appointments of John Fraser as Chair and Justin Arter as Chief Executive Officer, would help to implement the recommendations as soon as possible."

Putting the Public First: Partnering with the Community and Business to Deliver Outcomes
Source: WA. Treasurer. Public Sector Management
"The Liberal-National Government will consider more than 40 recommendations put forward in an independent report designed to re-focus the State’s public service to deliver better services for West Australians. The report deals more broadly with improving the delivery of services to the WA community. It provides a ‘road map’ for the public sector and the Government to enable it to deliver better quality services to West Australians that are the best in the nation and continually improving. It contains some fresh, innovative and modern thinking on how to improve the public service."

Hospital Business Reviews
Source: Ernst and Young / Tasmania. Dept of Health
"The Department has commissioned a number of core business reviews to assist service reforms flowing from Tasmania’s Health Plan. The reviews have covered the Royal Hobart, Launceston General and North West Regional Hospitals and Mental Health Services. "

New Four Year Blueprint For Tackling Homelessness
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Human Services
"Homelessness is a complex issue. People become homeless for a number of reasons including changes in the economy, at key points of transition in life and when experiencing family violence, mental health or alcohol and other drug issues. Many services are already working with people who are homeless or at risk but not in a coordinated way. Homelessness is a whole-of-government and community issue. All Government services and all levels of Government, the community and business must take responsibility and work together. The Tasmanian Homelessness Plan provides a framework for responding to homelessness. It outlines key strategies and proposes actions to achieve them through making homelessness everyone's responsibility."

Combating Climate Change
Source: Northern Territory. Chief Minister
“The Environment and Economic Sustainability are core areas of Territory 2030, and the Territory’s climate change policy is a key part of both of these. Underpinning the policy is an aspirational goal of a 60% reduction in carbon emissions on 2007 levels by 2050. This Government also strongly supports a national emissions trading scheme. This means we can drive real change and reduce emissions."

Draft sustainable energy policy released for public comment
Source: ACT. Minister for Energy
"Human-induced global warming is the greatest and most urgent threat confronting humanity. Combating climate change means a drastic reduction in emissions of greenhouse gases. In response, the ACT Government has adopted a Territory-wide target of zero net greenhouse gas emissions by 2060. The draft Sustainable Energy Policy 2010–2020 presents a range of policies that the ACT Government will consider in its move towards zero net emissions. The specific targets in the draft policy will be subject to further review to take into account research that has been commissioned by the ACT Government as well as comments from the public consultation."

Queensland kids off to a flying start with kindergarten pilot
Source: Queensland. Minister for Education and Training. Media Release
"More Queensland kids will get the flying start they deserve next year under a Bligh Government program to deliver kindergarten in long day care centres. Education and Training Minister Geoff Wilson announced the pilot program sites for long day care centres (LDCs) to offer quality early childhood education. Mr Wilson said the planned pilot of 100 had been increased to 141 centres because of strong interest from the sector. “Nearly 300 centres throughout the state jumped at the chance to be part of the pilot and 141 were independently assessed as ready to roll out a program,” he said. We have ensured a good geographical spread of trial centres and we’ve ensured they are in places where access to kindergarten services needs to be increased."

New Queensland Wine Industry Action Plan
Source: Queensland. Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland. Media Release
"A new two-year action plan will see the State Government and the wine industry continue to work closely together to create new growth opportunities. Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland Tim Mulherin launched the Wine Industry Action Plan 2009-2011 at a special discussion forum in Toowoomba for leading members of the State’s wine industry. The Minister, who is responsible for the development of Queensland’s wine industry, said the new plan would build on the Government’s previous five-year strategy."

Qld Government extends consultation on new koala protection regulations
Source: Queensland. Minister for Infrastructure and Planning. Media Release
"New koala protection regulations for South East Queensland will be deferred until early next year following requests from local government. Minister for Infrastructure and Planning Stirling Hinchliffe said the extension would not impact koala habitat protection as interim State Planning Regulatory Provisions would continue to protect key South East Queensland koala bushland habitat. “Consultation has been extended to allow for further engagement with councils on the South East Queensland Koala Conservation State Planning Provisions,’’ Mr Hinchliffe said.
Early consultation with the Council of Mayors South East Queensland about the regulations indicated more time was required for the practical implementation of this planning tool by end of year."

CHRISTMAS COMES EARLY WITH FASTER SMARTER PLANNING SYSTEM
Source: Queensland. Minister for Infrastructure and Planning. Media Release
"A faster and smarter Queensland planning system is now in place with the commencement of the Sustainable Planning Act 2009. Minister for Infrastructure and Planning Stirling Hinchliffe said the Act would improve long-term decisions on 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.
“We want to make sure development happens in the right place at the right time so a greater focus on regional planning and community involvement will determine the land for development or protection. This new system retains the decision-making our local communities want for their homes and streets, while making it easier for the State Government to manage broader, long-term planning."

‘ANYWHERE, ANYTIME’ MANTRA GETS NEW IMPETUS
Source: Queensland. Minister for Police, Corrective Services and Emergency Services. Media Release
"The Bligh Government will take its ‘Anywhere, Anytime’ speed limit enforcement mantra to a new level in the New Year by giving Police the power to extend its speed camera operations into suburban streets, Police Minister Neil Roberts announced. Mr Roberts said the significant change in policy further underlined the government’s determination to save lives and reduce injuries on Queensland roads. “We know that speed contributes to more than a quarter of fatalities on our roads each year,” Mr Roberts said. “Last week the Premier announced a raft of new measures aimed at slowing Queensland motorists down on our major roads and highways including the introduction of point-to-point speed cameras, combined speed and red light cameras and the use of covert speed camera vehicles."

Bligh Government considers major funding boost for racing industry
Source: Queensland. Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading. Media Release
"The Bligh Government is considering a major capital injection for the racing industry, Minister responsible for Racing Peter Lawlor said. Senior government officials met this week with the Chairs of the three racing control bodies – Queensland Racing Limited, Queensland Harness Racing Limited and Greyhounds Queensland Limited to look at ways to strengthen and unite the industry through an integrated control body."

New R&D Tax Credit - Exposure Draft Legislation
Source: Australia. Treasurer. Media release
"The Rudd Government today released draft legislation for the new R&D Tax Credit — the biggest reform to business innovation policy in over a decade.
The draft legislation follows through on the Government's commitment to deliver a more generous, more predictable, and less complex tax incentive by replacing the outdated and complicated R&D Tax Concession."

MINISTER WELCOMES MORE THAN $11 MILLION IN SOLAR INSTITUTE GRANTS
Source: Australia. Minister for Resources and Energy. Media release
"The Minister for Resources and Energy, Martin Ferguson AM MP, has welcomed the announcement of the first grants under the Australian Solar Institute’s competitive solar energy grants program."
Further information is available at: www.australiansolarinstitute.com.au

MINISTER UNVEILS NEW STRATEGY FOR TOURISM RESILIENCE AND ANNOUNCES $8M IN GRANTS
Source: Australia. Dept of Resources, Energy and Tourism
"The Minister for Tourism, Martin Ferguson AM MP, has outlined the Government’s commitment to a strong and competitive tourism industry, unveiling the National Long-Term Tourism Strategy and announcing more than $8 million in TQUAL Grants funding.
The National Long-Term Tourism Strategy provides a work plan for skills, infrastructure and removing barriers to investment, giving investors greater confidence in the sector’s long-term prospects. The work plan includes better research for the industry and improving regulation to encourage more tourism investment."

GEOTHERMAL ENERGY GETS A $35 MILLION BOOST
Source: Australia. Minister for Resources and Energy. Media release
"The Minister for Resources and Energy, Martin Ferguson AM MP, has announced five geothermal energy projects to receive Australian Government funding of $35 million from round two of the $50 million Geothermal Drilling Program."

$11.6 M TO HELP 30 OFFICE BUILDINGS GO GREEN
Source: Australia. Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research. Media release
"A North Sydney office building will install five vertical wind turbines as part of an upgrade supported by the Australian Government’s Green Building Fund that will reduce the building’s environmental impact by generating energy in-house.
The owners of the Pacific Highway-Miller Street corner building are among 30 applicants Australia-wide who have been offered a total of $11.6 million from the Green Building Fund’s fourth round."

$64M FOR FUND MANAGERS TO HELP START-UPS GROW
Source: Australia. Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research. Media release
"Eleven fund managers will distribute a total of $64 million in government funding to assist 35 early stage companies to continue developing and commercialising their innovative technologies.
Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, today announced that the fund managers had signed funding agreements under the Australian Government’s Innovation Investment Follow-on Fund (IIFF) program."

$130M FOR SEVEN CRCs TO ADDRESS INNOVATION PRIORITIES
Source: Australia. Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research. Media release
"Seven Cooperative Research Centres (CRC) addressing high priorities such as biotechnology, mining and remote community economics have been granted $130 million in funding in the CRC Program’s latest selection round."

MANUFACTURING AND SOCIAL INNOVATION TO BE RESEARCH PRIORITIES: 2010 CRC Program selection round opens
Source: Australia. Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research. Media release
"The 2010 Cooperative Research Centres (CRC) Program selection round opened today, with a key focus on manufacturing and social innovation."

$50 MILLION BIONIC EYE RESEARCH PROJECTS ANNOUNCED
Source: Australia. Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research. Media release
"The Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Senator Kim Carr, today announced that two outstanding research teams will share in funding of $50 million to develop a bionic eye."

A National Aviation Policy Statement - the Aviation White Paper
Source: Australia. Dept of Infrastructure, Transport,Regional Development and Local Government
"On 16 December 2009 the Australian Government released the National Aviation Policy White Paper. This represents the first ever comprehensive aviation policy statement issued by an Australian government, bringing together all strands of aviation policy into a single, forward-looking document providing planning, regulatory and investment certainty for the aviation industry out to 2020 and beyond.
The White Paper sets out the Government's commitment to a continuation of Australia's excellent aviation safety record and to strengthen aviation security systems, while providing a policy framework for the development of the aviation industry at all levels - international, domestic, regional and general aviation including through skills and productivity improvements. It sets out initiatives to ensure better planning and integrated development on and around airports and to lessen the adverse effects of aviation activity on the environment and communities."

Reform to deliver service that "works for you"
Source: Australia. Minister for Human Services
"The Minister for Human Services, Chris Bowen MP, today announced major reforms to Australian Government service delivery, which are designed to give Australians better access to Government health, social and welfare services."
More information is available online at www.worksforyou.gov.au.

Upper Coomera development delivers jobs and affordable homes
Source: Australia. Minister for Housing. Media Release
"Federal Minister for Housing Tanya Plibersek today launched an innovative Gold Coast Housing Company project that will deliver 22 affordable homes at Upper Coomera."

Tax deductible status for important environment and climate change organisations
Source: Australia. Minister for the Environment. Media release
"The Assistant Treasurer, Senator Nick Sherry, and the Minister for the Environment, Peter Garrett, have today announced that 11 organisations involved in the fight against climate change and helping to preserve and protect the environment have been granted tax deductible status. "

Energy efficiency agreement for pay TV subscribers good for the wallet and the environment
Source: Australia. Minister for the Environment. Media Release
"Australian pay television subscribers stand to save millions of dollars and prevent significant greenhouse gas emissions over the coming years, thanks to a new energy efficiency agreement struck between the Australian Government and the subscription television industry. "

$109m in tailored support for vulnerable job seekers and redundant workers
Source: Australia. Minister for Education. Media Release
"The Minister for Education, Julia Gillard, today announced continued support for vulnerable job seekers and redundant workers by awarding new contracts worth $109m to 12 organisations to deliver the Australian Apprenticeships Access Program."

R 18+ CLASSIFICATION FOR COMPUTER GAMES DISCUSSION PAPER RELEASED
Source: Australia. Attorney-General
"Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today encouraged people to share their views on whether an R 18+ classification category for computer games should be included in the Australian National Classification Scheme."

IMPORTATION OF TABLET PRESSES TO BE BANNED FROM 2010
Source: Australia. Minister for Home Affairs. Media release
"Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today announced that tablet presses will be a prohibited import from 1 March 2010.
“This is an important step in combating the manufacture of illicit drugs within Australia and the illegal profits being made by organised criminal groups,” Mr O’Connor said."

Australian Landcare Council reinstated
Source: Australia. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Media Release
"The Rudd Government has reinforced its commitment to the Landcare movement by reactivating the Australian Landcare Council and appointing former Western Australia Agriculture Minister Kim Chance as Chair of the Council.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke said Landcare plays a vital role in natural resource management across Australia and has more than 100,000 volunteers in around 4,500 groups."

Australia joins new global research alliance on agricultural greenhouse gases
Source: Australia. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Minister for Climate Change and Water. Joint media release
"Australia has become a key member of a new Global Research Alliance on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases which was launched today at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen.
Minister for Climate Change and Water, Senator Penny Wong, joined New Zealand Associate Minister for Climate Change Issues, the Hon. Tim Grosser, and American Secretary of Agriculture, Tim Vilsack in launching the Alliance, which formalises the ongoing collaboration of international research efforts on agriculture mitigation."

Trees on Farms
Source: Forestry Tasmania
"A tree planting project being developed by Forestry Tasmania will benefit farmers and help offset global warming. The project is part of an integrated farm management strategy called the Trees on Farms project which is targeted at giving farmers the opportunity to reclaim weed-infested land, secure a new revenue stream, provide shelter for stock and crops, and increase the capital value of land. Trees will be established at no cost to farmers who, in return, will protect them from stock and browsing animals. The trees will be harvested in 15 to 30 years with the profits to be shared between Forestry Tasmania and the landowner. Forestry Tasmania is currently assessing land suitable for inclusion in the Trees on Farms project, which is about to be officially launched."

IMPROVING STUDENT RESULTS IN LITERACY AND NUMERACY
Source: Victoria. Minister for Education. Media Release
"The Brumby Labor Government will expand Victoria’s successful Reading Recovery program to ensure more primary students with reading difficulties are helped early. Education Minister Bronwyn Pike said the Government would increase the number of Reading Recovery tutors working with teachers in primary schools from 16 to 25.“Reading, writing, spelling and numeracy are the building blocks for learning, and that’s why we are investing heavily in literacy and numeracy programs,” Ms Pike said.“Targeting early support to students who are struggling generates real results, which is why we have expanded the Reading Recovery program to ensure every child gets an opportunity to develop.“This Reading Recovery boost builds on our $5 million commitment to provide 81 Primary Maths Specialists.” Delivering on another of the Brumby Labor Government’s Blueprint commitments, Ms Pike also released Victoria’s first Literacy and Numeracy Statement."

PROPOSED REFORMS TO MODERNISE VICTORIA’S PLANNING ACT
Source: Victoria. Minister for Planning. Media Release
"Victoria’s planning system will be modernised and simplified under draft legislation released by the Minister for Planning, Justin Madden. Mr Madden said the Brumby Labor Government had consulted extensively with the community, industry, local government and other stakeholders on proposed reforms to the Planning and Environment Act – and this consultation would continue until February next year..“Our Government is determined to manage growth and help families secure their lifestyle,’’ Mr Madden said.“The Planning and Environment Act has provided a healthy framework for the planning of Victoria for more than two decades.“We are now taking action to cut red tape, make the planning system more efficient and ensure it is well placed to manage planning challenges and deliver policy outcomes well into the future. The proposed reforms aim to simplify current laws, remove redundant provisions and strengthen timelines in the planning process – while maintaining liveability and helping to secure housing affordability.’’

SUBMISSIONS INVITED ON FUTURE OF PLANT BIOSECURITY
Source: Victoria. Minister for Agriculture. Media Release
"The Brumby Labor Government is calling on submissions to proposed new laws designed to further protect Victoria’s $3 billion plant industry from disease outbreaks. Agriculture Minister Joe Helper said the draft Plant Biosecurity Bill, which would replace Plant Health and Plant Products Act 1995, aimed to prevent the entry of plant pests and diseases into Victoria.“The Brumby Labor Government understands the importance of keeping Victoria free of pests and diseases to ensure the long-term viability of our 11,000 plant-based industries,” Mr Helper said.“We want to protect and secure the market access of Victorian producers for plants and plant products both locally, interstate and overseas.”Mr Helper said a key component of the draft bill was the introduction of a Property Identification Code (PIC) database for plant industries that will enable Government to quickly contact property owners or find properties growing affected crops after a pest or disease detection.“The PIC database can be used to establish a comprehensive list of Victorian producers, which would greatly speed up any emergency responses,” he said."

Education partnership to boost regional job outcomes
Source: Western Australia. Training and Workforce Development
"A unique partnership between Murdoch University and Challenger TAFE announced today is set to increase the number of people in the Rockingham and Peel regions undertaking tertiary studies.Training and Workforce Development Minister Peter Collier said the partnership would allow Challenger students completing selected diplomas to transfer straight into the second year of a related degree at Murdoch University. Mr Collier said this would provide an opportunity for local students to receive a full bachelor degree that had an emphasis on practical skills with a solid theoretical foundation. "

NEW STANDARDS FOR HANDLING LIVESTOCK
Source: Victoria. Minister for Agriculture. Media Release
"New laws introduced this month will provide greater certainty relating to animal welfare, biosecurity and traceability standards for Victoria’s livestock industry. Introducing the Livestock Management Act into Parliament this week, Agriculture Minister Joe Helper said Victoria was moving to create uniform welfare standards that everyone must meet.“The Brumby Labor Government recognises that market, customer and community expectations are changing and there is a need to develop nationally consistent standards for handling livestock,” Mr Helper said.“We want to see greater clarity of owners’ responsibilities, which will then minimise the regulatory and cost burdens for industry. The new legislation will also assist in maintaining productivity and market access for livestock businesses.”

NEW GUIDELINES FOR RESPONSIBLE DRINK PROMOTIONS
Source: Victoria. Minister for Consumer Affairs. Media Release
"New guidelines on drink promotions and advertising will help make Victoria’s licensed venues safer by encouraging the more responsible service of alcohol, Consumer Affairs Minister Tony Robinson announced. Mr Robinson said the Guidelines for Responsible Liquor Advertising and Promotions were developed to clarify the Director of Liquor Licensing’s powers to ban inappropriate alcohol advertising and promotions for licensees.“The Brumby Labor Government wants people to enjoy a night out in safety and is taking action to ensure alcohol is served responsibly in our pubs and clubs to help reduce alcohol-related crime and violence,” he said. We’ve given the Director of Liquor Licensing the power to ban drink promotions and advertising because the way alcohol is sold and marketed can influence the way patrons drink and act, encouraging excessive drinking and antisocial behaviour."

MAJOR LEGISLATION PROPOSES NEW TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE CHARTERS FOR VICTORIA’S TRANSPORT AGENCIES
Source: Victoria. Minister for Public Transport. Media Release
"New legislation was introduced in the Victorian Parliament to align all state transport agencies in the biggest reform of the transport portfolio since 1983. Public Transport Minister Lynne Kosky said the Transport Integration Bill unifies the transport portfolio, including ports and marine, under the one central statute for the first time in Victoria’s history.“This Bill marks the most important change to transport legislation in a generation, replacing the outdated Transport Act 1983 as Victoria’s primary transport statute,” Ms Kosky said.Under the Bill:• All transport agencies – including the Director of Public Transport, VicRoads, VicTrack, V/Line and the Linking Melbourne Authority – will be required to work together towards the common goal of an integrated and sustainable transport system; and• Land use agencies – including the Department of Planning and Community Development, municipal Councils, the Growth Areas Authority and Parks Victoria – will be obliged to have regard to the legislation when making decisions that impact on the transport system.

NEW POLICE POWERS TO PENALISE SUMMER DRUNKS
Source: Victoria. Minister for Police & Emergency Services. Media Release
"Drunk and disorderly behaviour will attract an immediate $234 fine thanks to new Brumby Government laws that kick into action from today. Police and Emergency Services Minister Bob Cameron said under the Government’s Summary Offences and Control of Weapons Acts Amendment Bill, which takes effect from today, drunks and those acting in a disorderly manner can now be fined to further deter bad behaviour.“This action comes on the heels on last weekend’s successful police blitz on drunk and anti-social behaviour through Operation Unite,” Mr Cameron said. Victoria Police will continue operations throughout the summer months to target unruly behaviour and as of today they now have greater powers to deal with drunks and anti-social behaviour."

More kinder hours for Government schools
Source: Tasmania. The Premier
An additional 18 Tasmanian Government schools will provide an extra five hours of kindergarten from 2010, Premier David Bartlett announced today. “The additional 18 hours for Kindergarten are part of an agreement between the State and Australian Government to give all Tasmanian children access to 15 hours of kindergarten by 2013."

Planning Reforms For Houses
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Planning
"We have agreed to draft a set of standards for residential development which should be applied across the state in all normal residential zones. If development complies with these standards there will be no need to seek planning approval from local councils. All that will be needed is building approval.”
Mr Llewellyn said that these commitments are consistent with national regulatory reform for housing development and an agreement with the housing industry to reduce regulatory burden and introduce consistency throughout the state.

HIGH-LEVEL TEAM TO HELP QLD STAY AHEAD OF GROWTH
Source: Queensland. Premier. Media Release
"Premier Anna Bligh announced a high-level advisory team to help Queensland tackle the challenges of population growth. The announcement comes ahead of the Council of Australian Government meeting where population growth, and planning for it, will be a key issue.
“Growth is real and I’m determined to tackle it head on and protect Queensland’s unique lifestyle,” Ms Bligh said. “SEQ is the fastest growing region in the country with 2000 additional people calling Queensland home every week. We have to seize this opportunity and get this right.
Next year, we’ll have a growth summit which is a great opportunity to bring together people from across Queensland to help us lead the nation into the next period of prosperity and continue to enjoy the best lifestyle in Australia."

Flexible new laws simplify Queensland planning and development
Source: Queensland. Minister for Infrastructure and Planning. Media Release
"On December 18 a new era of simple, smart and flexible planning gets underway under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009. Minister for Infrastructure and Planning Stirling Hinchliffe last week released information on public notification, compliance assessment and the default standard conditions for deemed approvals to councils and other stakeholders.
As promised, councils are receiving this information early to enable them to be ready for the 18 December start date. “There are benefits for all Queenslanders from this new planning and development system,” Mr Hinchliffe said. The new public notification signs for impact assessable developments are just one example of the many changes set to make a big difference to the state’s planning system."

SEPARATION DISTANCES FOR INDUSTRY OUT FOR COMMENT
Source: Queensland. Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability. Media Release
"A new draft planning policy will direct all councils to keep future industrial activity at safe distances away from homes so Queenslanders are better safeguarded against air, noise and odour emissions, Climate Change and Sustainability Minister Kate Jones said.
Ms Jones said if adopted, the draft State Planning Policy for Air, Noise and Hazardous Materials would require an area zoned for hazardous industry be located at least 1.5 kilometres away from the nearest zone for residential development. "The new draft planning policy will benefit councils, industry and our neighbourhoods,” Ms Jones said."

It’s got to stop - tough new measures on the way
Source: Queensland. Minister for Transport. Media Release
"Premier Bligh has announced State Government plans to embark on one of the most stringent and co-ordinated road safety campaigns in Queensland’s history. New types of speed cameras and measures for an unprecedented drink driving crackdown are included in the new two year Road Safety Action Plan 2010-2011 to be released.
“Despite pleas from police, emergency personnel, road safety experts and even victim’s families, a dangerous minority continue to ignore the road safety basics on Queensland’s roads,” said the Premier. “Drink driving is a dangerous practice and the evidence that speeding costs lives is overwhelming. My message is simple – it’s got to stop." These measures are about doing what we can to make that happen.”

$44M TROPICAL INNOVATION HUB FOR CAIRNS
Source: Australia. Minister for Innovation. Media Release
"A $44 million world-class institute dedicated to research and innovation for tropical Australia will be built in Cairns.
The Rudd Government will provide $19.5 million in capital costs to develop the Cairns Institute – Tropical Innovation Hub and will contribute a further $8.75 million for research infrastructure. The institute will be located at James Cook University’s Cairns Campus, which will contribute a further $15.8 million."

Capital City Strategic Planning Systems
Source: Australia. Minister for Infrastructure, Transport,Regional Development and Local Government. Media Release
"State and Territories will have capital city strategic plans by 2012 that meet national criteria for transport, housing, urban development and sustainability.
State and Territory planning systems will be independently assessed by the COAG Reform Council in this major microeconomic reform agreed by Governments at today's COAG meeting."

New Incentives To Provide Better Health Care To Indigenous Australians
Source: Australia. Minister for Indigenous Health, Rural and Regional Health and Regional Services Delivery. Media Release
"Minister for Indigenous Health, Rural and Regional Health and Regional Services Delivery, Warren Snowdon announced a new incentive program, to help provide better health care to Indigenous Australians, in Melbourne today.Mr Snowdon said the first part of the Practice Incentives Program (PIP) Indigenous Health Incentive, costing $28 million over four years, will commence in May next year. "

Working with families to protect children
Source: Australia. Minister for Indigenous Health, Rural and Regional Health and Regional Services Delivery. Media Release
"Early intervention services, which draw on kinship ties of Aboriginal people to build strong families and protect children, are being established in the Alice Springs town camps and surrounding areas under the Alice Springs Transformation Plan."

Australian Government Funding Supports Local Communities to Take Action on Obesity
Source: Australia. Minister for Health and Ageing. Media Release
"Local government areas will receive a funding boost from the Rudd Government to foster healthier lifestyles in their communities, as the release of a sobering report shows risk factors of chronic disease continue to rise. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report, Prevention of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and chronic kidney disease: targeting risk factors, says the prevalence of some risk factors – such as obesity is increasing."

Australian Government Funding to Drive Reform in Clinical Teaching
Source: Australia. Minister for Health and Ageing. Media Release
"The Australian Government is acting to address Australia’s critical shortage of health professionals by investing $157 million in clinical teaching and training infrastructure and to support undergraduate health professional students in 2010. "

Draft CPRS and RET regulations released
Source: Australia. Dept of Climate Change
"The Rudd Government today released updated draft regulations for the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS).
The updated regulations include the second group of activities to be eligible for assistance under the emissions intensive, trade exposed (EITE) assistance program.
The Government has also today released draft regulations to deliver partial exemptions from Renewable Energy Target (RET) liability to all activities that would qualify for the EITE assistance under the CPRS.
The Government is seeking feedback from stakeholders on the draft CPRS and RET regulations by Monday 11 January 2010."

An Indicator Framework for Higher Education Performance Funding
Source: Australia. Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations. Discussion paper
"The Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) in consultation with the Indicator Development Group of higher education experts has developed a discussion paper on the framework of indicators that could be used to negotiate targets with universities for the purposes of performance funding for teaching and learning. "

National workplace relations system to commence on 1 January 2010
Source: Australia. Minister for Employment & Workplace Relations. Media Release
"The Minister for Employment & Workplace Relations, Julia Gillard, today welcomed New South Wales and Queensland into the new national workplace relations system, Fair Work.
New South Wales and Queensland today joined Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia by referring their workplace relations powers to the Commonwealth in relation to the private sector."

Digital Projects to Improve Services in Regional Communities
Source: Australia. Prime Minister. Media Release
"The Prime Minister today announced a $26.5 million investment in the first seven Digital Regions projects that will deliver more connected health, education and emergency services in regional, rural and remote communities across Australia.
The Prime Minister made the announcement at the Realising our Broadband Future Forum held at the University of New South Wales in Sydney."

New Laws To Protect Runaway Children
Source: South Australia Attorney-General Michael Atkinson
"Vulnerable children will become better protected from adults who exploit them through legislation, which formally passed through Parliament today. Attorney-General Michael Atkinson says the Statutes Amendment (Children’s Protection) Bill 2009, which passed through the Legislative Council Tuesday night, was introduced in response to recommendations made by Commissioner Ted Mullighan in his report of the Children in State Care Commission of Inquiry."

New emergency warning system for South Australia
Source: South Australia Emergency Services Minister
"Emergency Services Minister, Michael Wright, today launched a new telephone-based warning system that will alert South Australians in the event of a life-threatening emergency. A full test of ‘Alert SA’, the new emergency warning system, will take place on Kangaroo Island on Monday 14th to Wednesday 16th of December with the system expected to "go live" across the State before Christmas. ‘Alert SA’, will also offer people a dedicated major emergency website www.alert.sa.gov.au, a recorded information line and a call centre to support people seeking accurate, up to date information in a major emergency."

Premier Launches Bushfire Emergency Warning Trial
Source: NSW Premier
"Premier of NSW, Kristina Keneally today launched the first live trial of the new telephone and SMS Emergency Alert, designed to let people know of bushfire, floods or other significant emergencies in their local area.
The new Emergency Alert system will help our emergency services protect lives during bushfires, floods or even major chemical spills by allowing them to directly alert residents in danger. Warnings will be given to people via both voice messages to landline phones and text messages to mobiles registered in areas directly under threat. These live trials will give firefighters, Police and the State Emergency Service experience in using the system and the opportunity to test their operating guidelines and procedures."

Assessing the impact of urban development
Source: NSW. Dept of Planning
"Draft terms of reference for the strategic assessment of Sydney’s growth centres have been released by the New South Wales Government. The Department of Planning is undertaking the assessment of the North West and South West Growth Centres under the terms of the Federal Government’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. It will assess the impact of urban development on areas of national environmental significance within the centres.
The North West and South West Growth Centres are areas which will accommodate 181,000 new dwellings and land for employment for about half a million new residents over the next 25 to 30 years. The North West Growth Centre will contain about 70,000 new dwellings and the South West Growth Centre will have the capacity for around 110,000 new dwellings.
The draft terms of reference will be on display until December 23."

New solar bonus scheme
Source: NSW Government
"Households in New South Wales will be able to pay off their investment in solar panels in about eight years under the terms of a revised NSW Solar Bonus Scheme.
Under the gross payment scheme, families will know up-front how much they will be paid for all the energy their solar panels produce. Households with the panels will be paid 60 cents per kilowatt hour and an average household system will generate annually about 2,500 kilowatt hours.
The scheme will have a cap on the size of home solar systems of 10 kilowatts. A system of that size would generate about 16,700 kilowatt hours and pay almost $10,000 a year.
The government says creating certainty in the feed-in tariff scheme is one way families can be encouraged to invest in solar technology and support the clean energy industry. The scheme is proposed to run for seven years"

2030: Delivering for Territorians
Source: Northern Territory. Chief Minister
"The Northern Territory Government and the 2030 Steering Committee have delivered the first long-term strategic plan for the future of the Northern Territory.
Education is the number one priority of the Plan with most focus on this critical area. Other sections include society; economic sustainability; health and wellbeing; the environment; and knowledge, creativity and innovation. All the targets are inter-related and the themes are connected."

New draft strategy to continue to reduce harmful impacts of drug use
Source: ACT. Minister for Health
"Tobacco and alcohol are the drugs that cause the most harm in Australian society. Together, they account for 92% of Australian drug-related deaths, 84% of the drug-related burden of disease and injury, and 83% of the drug-related social costs. This draft Strategy focuses on the drugs associated with the greatest harms and responds with measures understood to be the most effective. "

MORE PRODUCTIVE LAND, NEW INCOME SOURCES FOR FARMERS
Source: Victoria. Minister for Environment & Climate Change. Media Release
"Victorian primary producers in regional Victoria will gain access to new income sources and their land will become more productive into the future, under a $105 million plan released by the Brumby Labor Government. Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Gavin Jennings, said Securing our Natural Future – a white paper for land and biodiversity at a time of climate change – sets out a new framework for action that will significantly change the way Victoria’s natural resources are managed.
Securing our Natural Future

TOUGHER NEW LAWS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENDERS
Source: Victoria. Attorney General. Media Release
"More child sex offenders will face a maximum 25 year jail term under tough new laws to be introduced to Parliament by the Brumby Labor Government, Deputy Premier and Attorney-General Rob Hulls said. Mr Hulls introduced legislation into Parliament to extend the maximum penalty of 25 years’ jail to offenders who sexually assault children younger than 12 years of age. Currently, the maximum penalty only applies to offenders who assault children younger than 10 years of age."

EAMES TO REVIEW LAWS RELATING TO HATE CRIMES
Source: Victoria. Attorney General. Media Release
"The Brumby Labor Government has appointed retired Supreme Court judge Geoff Eames to review existing laws to see if they adequately deal with offences motivated by hatred or prejudice. The review will consider whether current criminal offences and penalties are adequate and whether there is a need for specific hate crimes offences."

NEW TAXI AGREEMENT FOR DRIVERS AND OPERATORS
Source: Victoria. Minister for Public Transport. Media Release
"The Brumby Labor Government has developed a new model taxi agreement to help protect taxi drivers’ rights and promote consistent and fair commercial arrangements between individuals in the taxi industry. Public Transport Minister Lynne Kosky says the agreement makes it clearer and easier for taxi drivers and operators to understand their rights and responsibilities.“All Victorian taxi drivers are self-employed, so to drive a taxi they must enter into an arrangement, called a bailment agreement, with the owner of the taxi,” Ms Kosky said.“The model taxi bailment agreement better protects the rights of drivers and ensures that the agreements they are entering into are fair and transparent.”

National cooperation delivers new warning system
Source: Victoria. Minister for Police & Emergency Services. Media Release
"Attorney-General, Robert McClelland and the Victorian Police and Emergency Services Minister, Bob Cameron launched the national telephone-based emergency warning system, ‘Emergency Alert’ at the Victorian State Control Centre. The system will help warn the public in the event of a major emergency, and will add to a range of measures including television and radio alerts, public address systems, doorknocking, sirens, signage and the internet. Under the emergency alert system, warning alerts will be sent by recorded voice and text to landline and mobile phones based on an owner’s billing address.“The Australian Government has contributed $26 million to the development of a new national warning system, including $15.65 million to the development of ‘Emergency Alert’. The Australian Government welcomes the commitment of the states and territories to the ongoing operation of the system,” Mr McClelland said."

BETTER HEALTH FOR GAY AND LESBIAN PATIENTS IN VICTORIA
Source: Victoria. Minister for Health. Media Release
"Gay and lesbian people will have even better access to health services thanks to a practical new guide for Victorian health workers. Visiting the Royal Women’s Hospital, Health Minister Daniel Andrews launched Well Proud: A Guide to Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex Inclusive Practice for Health and Human Services, and said it would make it easier for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people to seek health help when and where they need it.“The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to reduce health inequalities and provide the very best health services for all Victorians, including gay and lesbian people,” Mr Andrews said."

NEW HEALTHY FOOD GUIDELINES FOR VICTORIAN HOSPITALS
Source: Victoria. Minister for Health. Media Release
"Victorian public hospitals have been asked to support new guidelines for the provision of healthy food and drink to visitors, staff and the general public. Health Minister Daniel Andrews said the draft guidelines, which have been sent to health services this week for consultation, would encourage hospitals to provide visitors and staff with a wider range of healthy food options.“Everyone who buys food from canteens, cafes and vending machines in our health services should have access to a range of healthy choices,” Mr Andrews said."

PREMIER WELCOMES NATIONAL CHILDREN’S QUALITY FRAMEWORK
Source: Victoria. Premier. Media Release
"A new national framework for children’s service has been agreed at the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) to ensure all Australian children have the best start in life, Premier John Brumby said. Mr Brumby said the Victorian Government was committed to improving the safety and quality of Victoria’s children’s services. “The quality development of children’s services is a top priority for the Victorian Government and better ratios and better qualified staff is a key part of ensuring they can have a better future,” Mr Brumby said.
Key features of the new National Quality Framework include:• improved staff to child ratios;• a more qualified early childhood workforce;• streamlined regulatory arrangements of Commonwealth and State processes;• a new national quality standard and transparent ratings system and;• a new, jointly-governed national body"

Zero blood alcohol level for all novice road users
Source: Queensland. Premier . Media Release
"The State Government will adopt a zero alcohol tolerance policy for all L and P-plate drivers and novice motorcycle riders regardless of their age, Premier Anna Bligh announced.
Ms Bligh said Cabinet had approved draft new laws to be introduced in February which would extend the zero alcohol limit to all L and P-platers, not just those aged 25 and under.
The move will affect the 65,731 Queenslanders aged over 25 who hold a learner or provisional licence. “Currently people aged over 25 who have a learner, provisional or probationary licence can drive with a blood alcohol content below 0.05 per cent but the new laws will extend to all novice drivers regardless of their age,” Ms Bligh said."

Attorney-General invites feedback on sweeping court reforms
Source: Queensland. Attorney-General . Media Release
"Attorney-General Cameron Dick has released a draft consultation Bill containing the first stage of the Bligh Government’s progressive roll-out of sweeping reforms focused on modernising Queensland’s civil and criminal justice system. “Queenslanders are invited to comment on these draft laws, which will modernise and streamline the state’s justice system to ensure that it operates effectively,” Mr Dick said.“These reforms aim to ensure equitable and timely delivery of justice in our state, reflecting contemporary needs and expectations.” The reforms have been developed in response to a review by former Senior Judge Administrator of the Supreme Court, Justice Martin Moynihan. Mr Dick said the Civil and Criminal Jurisdiction Reform and Modernisation Amendment Bill 2009 would have a major influence on the courts, legal profession and community, so it was important to seek feedback and comment before finalising the proposed laws."

Bligh Government tackles Queensland domestic violence
Source: Queensland. Minister for Community Services and Housing and Minister for Women. Media Release
"Minister for Community Services and Minister for Women Karen Struthers announced the start of a ground-breaking trial to tackle domestic violence in Queensland. Speaking on White Ribbon Day - a national day set aside to raise awareness about domestic violence- Ms Struthers said a 20-month trial had begun in Rockhampton.
“It’s a first for Queensland. It’s a genuine coming-together of government, the courts and the non-government sector,” Ms Struthers said. Ms Struthers said a dedicated team from the Department of Communities, the Department of Justice and Attorney General, Police, Legal Aid and the local magistrate had been working together over the past few months."

Qld National Parks to be put on show under eco-tourism plan
Source: Queensland. Premier and Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading and the Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability. Media Release
"Queensland’s best environmental assets will be put on show to the world, under a new eco-tourism plan to boost visitor numbers in our State’s protected areas.
Premier Anna Bligh announced that the Queensland Government will be seeking expressions of interest from private investors, to establish eco-tourism holiday accommodation at seven destinations throughout the state.
The seven areas identified under the plan are:
Eurong on Fraser Island;
Wallaman Falls at Girringun, west of Cardwell;
Ninny Rise at Mission Beach;
Jonah Bay at Whitsunday;
Mount Mee, D’Aguilar National Park;
Green Mountain, Lamington National Park; and
Cowan South on Moreton Island."

Queensland timber plantation 2020 strategy released
Source: Queensland. Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland. Media Release
"The Queensland Government released for consultation the Queensland Timber Plantation Strategy 2020 which sets out the way forward for the industry post the sale of Forestry Plantations Queensland (FPQ). Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland Tim Mulherin said the strategy signals a fundamental change of role for the government from direct ownership of timber plantations, to one of leadership and direction-setting.
The strategy features five key planks:
improved land-use planning framework for timber plantations
supportive legislative and policy frameworks
facilitating new investment in timber plantations
targeted industry development support
strengthening community support for timber plantations."

Bligh Government proposes new defence for domestic violence victims
Source: Queensland. Attorney-General. Media Release
"The Bligh Government has introduced legislation that provides a new partial defence for victims of serious domestic violence who kill their abuser. Attorney-General and Industrial Relations Minister Cameron Dick introduced the Criminal Code (Abusive Domestic Relationship Defence and Another Matter) Amendment Bill 2009 into Parliament. Mr Dick told Parliament that the new defence was the first of its kind in Australia and would provide victims of serious abuse with legal protection. He said the proposed laws had been developed after detailed consideration of the issue by the government, the Queensland Law Reform Commission, academics and other key stakeholders in the judiciary, the legal profession and the community."

Queenslanders will develop new Community Plans for cities and towns
Source: Queensland. Minister for Local Government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships. Media Release
"Local Government Minister Desley Boyle has announced a July 1 start date for the much-anticipated new Local Government Act 2009. Cities and towns across Queensland will also be developing their first ever Community Plans, setting down Queenslanders’ vision for the future of their communities. “The July start date was suggested by councils, the Local Government Association of Queensland and unions,” Ms Boyle said."

No more pokies for Queensland
Source: Queensland. Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading. Media Release
"A new scheme that will provide incentives for clubs to reduce the number of poker machines was today launched, following legislative amendments to the Gaming Machine Act 1991. Minister responsible for gaming, Peter Lawlor MP, unveiled the new market-driven scheme, which allows Queensland clubs to transfer and sell gaming machine entitlements from 30 November 2009. “The new scheme will mean no new pokies for Queensland, but greater incentives for community clubs to reduce their number of machines,” said Minister Lawlor. This industry initiative allows clubs to trade gaming machine entitlements, under an existing State-wide cap set last year at 24,705.”

New tribunal to help Queenslanders resolve disputes
Source: Queensland. Attorney-General . Media Release
"The biggest shake-up in Queensland’s judicial system for 50 years takes effect, with the new Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) starting operations. Attorney-General and Minister for Industrial Relations Cameron Dick said QCAT provided a new way for Queenslanders to resolve civil and administrative disputes. He said the amalgamation of 23 jurisdictions into a one-stop shop made it easier for Queenslanders to access the justice system. “QCAT will focus on resolving disputes, reviewing decisions of government agencies and statutory bodies, making guardianship and administration orders, and conducting disciplinary proceedings for various professions and occupations,” Mr Dick said."

New land access plans pave the way for better relations
Source: Queensland. Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy and Minister for Trade. Media Release
"The Bligh Government moved a step closer to realising its Land Access Strategy and delivering on its commitment to introduce new measures to improve relationships between farmers and resource companies. The Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy Stephen Robertson said proposed changes to current land access requirements will be pivotal in creating a more equitable regime. “Cabinet has approved the preparation of legislative amendments that provide for a more consistent and transparent process that will improve landholders’ rights when their land is accessed for exploration. This is about providing certainty to all stakeholders about their respective rights and responsibilities when it comes to land access."

Bligh Government launches new support services for victims of crime
Source: Queensland. Attorney-General . Media Release
"The Queensland Government marked the start of a new era of support for victims of crime with the official launch of Victim Assist Queensland. Attorney-General Cameron Dick said the event represented a significant change in the way assistance was provided to help victims recover from trauma experienced at the hands of criminals. “Victim Assist Queensland shifts the focus from lump-sum payments to the delivery of services, assistance and support to help victims and their families recover as quickly as possible,” Mr Dick said. Queenslanders now have a more accessible system which cuts through the red tape to deliver services sooner.”

Bligh Government launches new $1 million Community Living Program on International Day of People with a Disability
Source: Queensland. Minister for Disability Services and Multicultural Affairs. Media Release
"The Bligh Government has announced an extra $1 million to support Queenslanders with a disability to mark International Day of People with a Disability (Thursday 3 December).
Disability Services Minister Annastacia Palaszczuk said the new Community Living Program was a landmark reform which would deliver supported accommodation to up to 50 Queenslanders each year. "This is great news for Queenslanders with a disability, and it couldn't have come at a better time," she said. "It means individuals will be able to access up to $20,000 a year to get the support they need to live in their own communities. It will allow them to live independently in their own homes while staying close to friends and family."

NO EXCUSES REFORM PROGRAM FOR INDIGENOUS EDUCATION IN CAPE YORK
Source: Queensland. Minister for Education and Training. Media Release
"A revolutionary “no excuses” approach to improving Indigenous students’ literacy and numeracy will be trialled next year in two Far North Queensland schools.
Coen State School will become a campus of the Western Cape College and, with the Aurukun campus, be the sites for this innovative initiative.
Education and Training Minister Geoff Wilson said Class, Culture and Club was proposed by the Cape York Leadership Institute, and backed by local communities and educators.
“This program will help us close the gap between the educational outcomes of Indigenous and non-Indigenous students which is a high priority for the Queensland Government,” Mr Wilson said."

Green light for Gold Coast Rapid Transit
Source: Queensland. Treasurer and Minister for Employment and Economic Development. Media Release
"The search is on for a team to build and operate the first light rail project in Queensland, with expressions of interest called for the Gold Coast Rapid Transit project. Treasurer Andrew Fraser said the project would literally change the face of the Gold Coast, and become an iconic piece of transport and tourist infrastructure. “The Gold Coast is one of Australia's fast growing regions, welcoming 15,000 new residents each year,” Mr Fraser said. “Rapid Transit will replace up to 75 million car trips in the first ten years of operation, cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 114,000 tonnes. This is the sort of project that a modern, growing region needs.”

HIGH-LEVEL TEAM TO HELP QLD STAY AHEAD OF GROWTH
Source: Queensland. Premier. Media Release
"Premier Anna Bligh announced a high-level advisory team to help Queensland tackle the challenges of population growth. The announcement comes ahead of the Council of Australian Government meeting where population growth, and planning for it, will be a key issue.
“Growth is real and I’m determined to tackle it head on and protect Queensland’s unique lifestyle,” Ms Bligh said. “SEQ is the fastest growing region in the country and 2000 people call Queensland home every week. We have to seize this opportunity and get this right.
“Next year, we’ll have a growth summit which is a great opportunity to bring together people from across Queensland to help us lead the nation into the next period of prosperity and continue to enjoy the best lifestyle in Australia. This team of experts, with a wealth of knowledge areas such as population trends, climate change, architecture, planning and industry, will play an important role in the summit.”

Improving Australia's Corporate Reporting Framework
Source: Australia. Minister for Financial Services, Superannuation and Corporate Law.
"The Minister for Financial Services, Superannuation and Corporate Law has released an exposure draft of the Corporations Amendment (Corporate Reporting Reform) Bill 2010, the associated regulations, commentary to explain the proposed amendments, and the draft Regulation Impact Statement.
The proposed reforms comprise of a range of measures to improve Australia’s corporate reporting framework, by reducing unnecessary red tape and regulatory burden on companies and implementing a number of other important refinements to the regulatory framework.
The Government is seeking written submissions on the draft amendments by close of business Wednesday 3 February 2010."

NATIONAL INNOVATION PRINCIPLES ADOPTED
Source: Australia. Minister for Innovation. Media Release
"Federal, State and Territory Innovation Ministers for the first time adopted a set of national innovation principles at a meeting in Melbourne today – to guide policy development and increase the consistency of government innovation programs across Australia.
“This is a real first for national innovation policy, and a vivid demonstration of governments working together to make all Australian innovation programs efficient and accessible,” said Australian Innovation Minister, Senator Kim Carr about the release of the Framework of Principles for Innovation Initiatives."

$30M TO SUPPORT RESEARCH COLLABORATION
Source: Australia. Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research. Media Release
"The Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Senator Kim Carr, today announced that 71 research projects will share more than $30 million in funding under the Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities (LIEF) scheme."

Government delivers national IR system
Source: Australia. Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations. Media Release
"The Rudd Government has today delivered on its election commitment to create a fair and balanced national workplace relations system for the private sector.
Today, the Australian Parliament passed the Fair Work Amendment (State Referral and Other Measures) Bill 2009 without amendment."

Government offers extra $20 million to rural tertiary students
Source: Australia. Minister for Education. Media Release
"Minister for Education, Julia Gillard, today continued to negotiate with Senators to attempt to secure the passage of the Youth Allowance bill so 150 000 students gain certainly and can benefit from new scholarships in 2010.
Ms Gillard said the Government has offered to set up a Rural Tertiary Hardship Fund worth $20 million to help prevent the barriers to rural and regional students attending university."

Championship moves for safe schoolies celebrations
Source: Victoria. Attorney General
"Deputy Premier and Attorney-General Rob Hulls has called on school leavers holidaying on the Surf Coast to use their Championship Moves to ensure fun and trouble-free celebrations. Mr Hulls joined Geelong Football Club coach Mark Thompson in front of the Championship Moves bus in the Geelong Mall today to promote the campaign’s simple message: ‘Real champions look out for their mates and respect everyone’s right to a good time’.Mr Hulls said spreading the message about safe drinking practices was particularly important with school leavers visiting the Surf Coast to celebrate the end of exams.“This campaign encourages young men to use ‘Championship Moves’ to help their mates when they’ve had too much to drink and look like heading for trouble,” Mr Hulls said.“Not only will they be helping their mates, but they’ll also assist police in their efforts to keep Schoolies safe and provide an environment where young people can have a good time and feel safe.”"

Minister welcomes innovation in sustainable design
Source: Victoria. Minister for Planning
"The Brumby Labor Government today welcomed the construction of Australia’s first zero carbon, 9 star home by a commercial developer. Opening the new prototype in Waverley Park with representatives from developer MIRVAC, Planning Minister Justin Madden said the home was the latest Victorian innovation leading to the state’s reputation as a national leader in sustainable building."

$11 million for truck reduction plan in the West
Source: Victoria. Minister for Roads and Ports
"An $11 million funding boost will kick start the Brumby Labor Government’s Truck Action Plan to remove trucks from local roads in the western suburbs as part of the $38 billion Victorian Transport Plan. Roads and Ports Minister Tim Pallas announced $11 million for the planning investigation for the first stage of the Truck Action Plan, including preconstruction planning and early works on Shepherd Bridge in Yarraville.“We understand that people are concerned about trucks on our roads, which is why the Brumby Labor Government is building a better transport system and taking trucks off residential streets,” Mr Pallas said.“The Truck Action Plan is a vital project that will create an alternative route for freight to access the Port of Melbourne, away from residential areas.

Better health for gay and lesbian patients in Victoria
Source: Victoria. Minster for Health
"Gay and lesbian people will have even better access to health services thanks to a practical new guide for Victorian health workers. Visiting the Royal Women’s Hospital, Health Minister Daniel Andrews today launched Well Proud: A Guide to Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex Inclusive Practice for Health and Human Services, and said it would make it easier for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people to seek health help when and where they need it."

State Parliament passes Royalties for Regions Bill
Source: Western Australia. Dept of Regional Development
"The State Government’s Royalties for Regions Bill has been passed in State Parliament. Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls welcomed the passage of the legislation which provided a legislative base for the Royalties for Regions program’s continuing operation.
“This is an historic result for regional Western Australians and ensures there is a continuing focus on regional development into the future,” Mr Grylls said. The Bill provides for the equivalent of 25 per cent of the State’s annual mining and onshore petroleum royalties to be returned to the regions for additional investment in projects, infrastructure and community services in the regions."

Industrial Land Strategy 2009, Perth and Peel
Source: Western Australia. Planning WA
"The Industrial Land Strategy 2009 Perth and Peel is the State Government’s road map to meet demand for industrial land to service business investment and population growth.
The strategy, which focuses on general and light industry needs, provides the framework to ensure ongoing economic growth and sustainability for these regions.
Forty sites have been identified that have the potential to be developed for industrial land uses, including sites which are extensions to existing industrial areas; and six sites, comprising more than 4 000 hectares, have been short-listed as priorities for detailed feasibility assessment.
Following the consultation period, a final industrial land strategy will be prepared, following the blueprint for future industrial land use planning."

New Safety Laws to Protect Children in Cars
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Infrastructure
"Safeguarding the lives of Tasmanian children travelling in cars is one of the prime objectives of new road safety laws introduced on Monday (30 November). Launching the package of new road rules today, the Minister for Infrastructure, Graeme Sturges, said that all Tasmanian children aged under the age of four would need to be secured in an approved restraint when travelling in vehicles, and from November 2010 children aged between four and seven would have to wear either a child restraint or be in a booster seat. These new laws are based on the latest safety research available to better protect children from serious injury."

Green Star Rating
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Energy and Resources
"David Llewellyn, Minister for Energy and Resources, has welcomed the Green Building Council’s announcement that it would officially recognise the Australian Forestry Standard (AFS). The 1.5 million hectares of state forest managed by Forestry Tasmania are certified under the AFS.
“Tasmania has been at the forefront of progressing national recognition of the AFS as an Australian Standard,” Mr Llewellyn said. “All states have agreed to follow Tasmania’s lead."
The AFS is internationally endorsed by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification schemes (PEFC). This means that it has been developed in conformity with Australia’s standard setting procedures and approved by the National Standards Office, as well as meeting the over 200 criteria established by the PEFC. The decision is a vote of confidence in the sustainability of Australia’s managed forests, including Tasmania’s state forests.The Green Building Council’s guidelines have been widely adopted in procurement policies across Australia. This recognition is therefore a significant boost to Tasmanian forest industries. Ninety percent of Australia’s production forests are certified under the AFS. However, until now, little if any Australian hardwood was eligible to meet the Green Building Council’s standards."

State Government Completes Rail Takeover
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Infrastructure
"The Minister for Infrastructure, Graeme Sturges, today announced the State Government had successfully completed the purchase of the Tasmanian rail business from Pacific National, heralding a new era for rail freight services in the State.
Mr Sturges said that the newly established State-owned rail company - Tasmanian Railway Pty Ltd - would assume responsibility for the management and maintenance of all rail infrastructure and railway operations in Tasmania from today."

Public Comment Sought On Draft Feral Camel Action Plan
Source: NT. Minister for Natural Resources, Environment and Heritage
"Environment Minister Karl Hampton today invited all Australians to comment on a draft Feral Camel Action Plan that aims to manage the impact of feral camels in Australian rangelands. With camel numbers doubling every eight or nine years, the draft Plan is concerned primarily with the management control of feral camels and recognises that camels have a major economic, social and environmental cost. The draft Plan will measure and monitor the beneficial impacts of the camel removal program. It will also provide a platform for the ongoing and long-term management of feral camels, and partnerships and social capacities for camel management into the future.”

ACT Government welcomes childcare website initiative
Source: ACT. Minister for Children and Young People
"The ACT Labor Government has been working with the Federal Government to deliver easy access of childcare information for parents on the mychild.gov.au website. With one click parents will be able to get information on childcare vacancies at centres across the ACT, offering long day care, family day care, occasional, outside school hours and vacation care. The site also has a handy mapping function enabling parents to find childcare centres on a map and see a ‘street view'. The ACT Government supports the work being done by the Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments to achieve improved staff-to-child ratios, higher qualifications for staff, and quality standards for services, so that parents can better inform their choices about their children's future".