Government response to Ford Review to revolutionise child protection in WA
Source: Western Australia. Premier. Media Release
"The State Government has announced it will invest an extra $100million and implement a raft of major structural reforms in one of the biggest overhauls of child protection operations in Western Australia’s history."

$1million boost for respite care
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Disability Services. Media Release
"The State Government has announced a $1million boost for respite care for Western Australians with disabilities and their families."

State Government rewards teachers at the peak of the profession
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Education and Training. Media Release
"Top-tier teachers are being rewarded to retain expertise in the classroom and advance education standards in Western Australian public schools. More than 80 talented teachers had been promoted to the position of Level Three classroom teacher, following extra professional development and a rigorous assessment of their abilities."

Victoria Leading the Way with Green Buses
Source: Victoria. Minister for Public Transport. Media Release
"The introduction signals Victoria’s leadership in low-emission bus standards, being the first state to introduce Euro 4 clean diesel buses for public transport. The buses have been purchased by Invicta bus company under the Bracks Government’s $189 million four-year Bus Replacement Program."

New Laws to Tackle Domestic
Source: South Australia. Minister for Justice and the Minister for Womans Status. Media Release
"A comprehensive review of the State’s domestic violence laws has been released and the public’s input has been asked for on how best to deliver appropriate laws from the many recommendations of the review."

13 more Schools to go Solar
Source: South Australia. Minister for Education. Media Release
"The Rann Government’s $1.25m SA Solar Schools program already has provided 97 schools and preschools with solar panels. Now we are extending the benefits to 13 more schools. Solar panels allow schools to generate electricity, assist in the reduction of greenhouse gases and teach students about renewable energy sources."

Review Recommends Major Reform of Indigenous Housing
Source: Australia. Minister for Indigenous Affairs. Media Release
"The report of the independent review of the Community Housing and Infrastructure Programme (CHIP) Living in a Sunburnt Country which recommends major reforms in the funding and delivery of Indigenous housing."

Report spells out a blueprint for change
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Education and Training. Media Release
"The Carpenter Government released the most comprehensive review of literacy and numeracy ever undertaken in Western Australia. Education and Training Minister Mark McGowan said the review, which was prepared by an independent taskforce chaired by Professor Bill Louden, set out a clear blueprint for change."

Small Business Gets Help to Find Skilled Workers
Source: Victoria. Minister for Small Business. Media Release
"Finding skilled workers will be easier for Victoria’s 470,000 small businesses operators thanks to a Bracks Government program to recruit the right people for the job. Minister for Small Business, Theo Theophanous, said the $10.6 million My Business, My People initiative was an Australian-first push to help small businesses find the best available employees for their business."

New Program Offers Drought Management Help
Source: Victoria. Minister for Agriculture. Media Release
"The Minister for Agriculture, Joe Helper, officially launched a new free and easy-to-use computer program that will assist farmers to better-manage their production, planning, budgeting and drought-recovery costs."

Bracks Government to Focus on Financial Services Industry
Source: Victoria. Minister for Industry and State Development. Media Release
"The Bracks Government has committed to work with and develop Victoria’s Financial Services Industry by making it the focus of a review of the Parliament’s Economic Development Committee."

Industry Greenhouse Reporting Possible Within Months
Source: Victoria. Minister for Climate Change. Media Release
"Minister for Climate Change, John Thwaites, welcomed a report that has found company greenhouse gas emissions could be reported and publicly disclosed within months. Mr Thwaites said the independent report compared the existing public database for emissions of pollutants, the National Pollutant Inventory (NPI), with a purpose built national reporting mechanism currently being considered by COAG for greenhouse gas emissions."

Review to Cut Red Tape in the Not For Profit Sector
Source: Victoria. Office of the Treasurer. Media Release
"Treasurer John Brumby announced a review to slash red tape in the not-for-profit sector as part of the Bracks Government’s commitment to reduce the burden of regulation in Victoria."

Upping the tempo on music education
Source: Australia. Minister for Education, Science and Training. Media Release
"The Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop MP, released the report from the National Music Workshop, which promotes the benefits of music education in Australian schools. "

Securing Our Fishing Future - Final Consultation on Harvest Strategy Policy
Source: Australia. Minister for Fisheries, Forestry and Conservation. Media Release
"The consultation period for the Australian Government’s Draft Commonwealth Fisheries Harvest Strategy Policy is now open. The Harvest Strategy Policy will provide a framework that ensures a strategic, science-based approach to setting total allowable catch levels in all Commonwealth fisheries."

Funding to Advance Water Recycling and Better Urban Water Management
Source: Australia. Minister for Environment and Water. Media Release
"The Australian Government will invest $2.475 million to support six water recycling and urban water management projects across Australia, worth $3.2 million. "

Government Invests Millions to Further Develop Water Trade
Source: Australia. Minister for Environment and Water. Media Release
"The Australian Government will invest $5.6 million to accelerate the development of water trading in Australia."

Funding to the states for HPV vaccination program
Source: Australia. Minister for Health and Ageing. Media Release
"The Commonwealth Government will provide an additional $100 million over four years to support state and territory governments in the implementation of the National HPV Vaccination Program."

Pilot Program to Help Business Innovate
Source: Australia. Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources. Media Release
"Australian Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources, Ian Macfarlane, launched a $4 million pilot program to improve small and medium businesses' access to innovation. The Intermediary Access Program will reduce the cost of SMEs engaging in innovative activity by helping businesses to adapt knowledge and technology and collaborate with industry partners."

Nationals Delivering on Delivering on Broadband for Regional Australia
Source: Australia. Minister for Transport and Regional Services. Media Release
"Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of The Nationals, Mark Vaile said regional Australians can be confident of a continued roll-out of broadband services under the Australian Government's new $162.5 million Australian Broadband Guarantee program, that has been announced."

Government Tackles Driver Distraction
Source: Victoria. Minister for Public Transport. Media Release
"In its latest commitment to reducing the state’s road toll, the Bracks Government will address the issue of driver distraction and its effect on road crashes. Minister for Roads and Ports, Tim Pallas, said as a result of the recommendations made by the Parliamentary Road Safety Committee, more thorough research would now be undertaken in Victoria to find ways to reduce distractions for drivers. "

New Legislation Another Step Towards Reconciliation
Source: Victoria. Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. Media Release
"New legislation to protect Victorian Aboriginal cultural heritage is set to come into effect on 28 May 2007, bringing Victoria another step towards reconciliation. Announcing the proclamation date, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gavin Jennings said the new Aboriginal Heritage Act will replace existing legislation with a more modern, consistent and effective process."

Victoria's First Home to Help Younger People Move Out of Aged Care
Source: Victoria. Minister for Community Services. Media Release
"Victoria’s first specialist home for young people with a disability will be built in Alphington, Community Services Minister Gavin Jennings announced. Mr Jennings said the Bracks Government was investing $2.2 million a year to run the 10-bed unit to give younger people with a disability an alternative to living in residential aged care."

State Government Invests $1.6B in A Fairer Victoria
Source: Victoria. Minister for Victorian Communities. Media Release
"Minister for Victorian Communities Peter Batchelor said the Bracks Government broadly supported the thrust of the Jesuit Social Services report on social disadvantage, and had invested $1.6 billion in disadvantaged communities through the Fairer Victoria program. Mr Batchelor said the State Government had used the concept of “place-based disadvantage” to inform its social welfare policies for several years and had adopted a targeted approach to addressing disadvantage through A Fairer Victoria."

NSW & Victorian Governments Cut Red Tape With Historic Payroll Tax Reform
Source: Victoria. Office of the Treasurer. Media Release
"Red tape for thousands of businesses in Victoria and NSW will be drastically cut following the announcement of an historic cross-border payroll tax reform. NSW Treasurer Michael Costa and Victorian Treasurer John Brumby said the far-reaching reforms would halve payroll tax paperwork for around 8,000 businesses with operations on both sides of the Murray. "

Education Legislation Takes Shape
Source: Victoria. Minister for Education. Media Release
"Draft regulations for the new Education and Training reform Act are now on display for public comment, the Minister for Education, John Lenders, said. The Act replaces 12 education and training Acts and sets up the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority, which will regulate schools and training and higher education providers other than established universities.”

$400,000 To Improve The Skills Of Manufacturing Workers
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Education. Media Release
"The State Government has established a new program to improve the skills of existing workers in the manufacturing industry. Education Minister, David Bartlett said the $400,000 Competitive Manufacturing Skills Program would fund training and skills development that supports best practice in Tasmania’s manufacturing industries."

$2 Million For Innovative Housing Ideas
Source: Northern Territory. Minister for Housing. Media Release
"The Northern Territory Government’s latest $2 million housing project will deliver innovative lowcost houses for people in the bush. Housing Minister Elliot McAdam said the Northern Territory Government is looking for builders and construction companies with innovative ideas for low-cost housing solutions in Indigenous communities. "

Federal Labor's Plan For A National Curriculum For Australian Schools
Source: Australian Labour Party. Media Release
"A Rudd Labor Government will set up a National Curriculum Board to develop a rigorous, consistent and quality curriculum for all Australian students – from kindergarten to year 12."

Water reform plan released
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Water Resources. Media Release
"The State Government took a major step toward further securing Western Australia’s water future with the release of far-reaching plans to improve water management. Water Resources Minister John Kobelke released the Blueprint for Water Reform in WA, the Government Response to the Blueprint for Water Reform in WA and WA’s draft National Water Initiative implementation plan."

Land tax thresholds and scales under review
Source: Western Australia. Treasurer. Media Release
"Treasurer Eric Ripper said the State Government was reviewing land tax thresholds and scales as part of the State Tax Review."

WA Government considers overhauling State super scheme
Source: Western Australia. Treasurer. Media Release
"Public sector employees in Western Australia will soon be able to choose their own superannuation fund under a plan being considered by the State Government."

Implementation of $1.5 billion aged care package underway
Source: Australia. Minister for Ageing. Media Release
"The Howard Government is working closely with both providers and recipients of aged care as it moves into the implementation phase of its $1.5 billion Securing the Future of Aged Care for Australians package."

Farmers first to benefit from ‘red tape’ review
Source: Australia. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Media Release
"Australian farmers will be the first to benefit from a series of new Productivity Commission reviews aimed at cutting the burden of red tape on business. "

Drought assistance for “bigger” small businesses
Source: Australia. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Media Release
"The Government has extended Exceptional Circumstances (EC) drought assistance to farm-dependent businesses employing up to 100 staff. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Peter McGauran, said the decision widened the EC eligibility criteria from businesses employing up to 20 staff, to those with up to 100."

Police checks for aged care workers
Source: Australia. Minister for Ageing. Media Release
"Aged care workers and volunteers will be required to undergo police checks from 1 March 2007 to ascertain their suitability to work with frail elderly Australians."

Australia's Transport Security Stronger
Source: Australia. Minister for Transport and Regional Services. Media Release
"The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Mark Vaile, said that a positive independent assessment of Australia's surface transport security further demonstrates the strength of Australia's overall transport security settings."

New Protection for independent contractors and workers
Source: Australia. Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations. Media Release
" People who work as independent contractors will soon have greater flexibility in how they run their business under new laws which will take affect from next month. Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, the Hon Joe Hockey MP, announced that the Independent Contractors Act 2006 and the Independent Contractors Regulations 2007 will commence on 1 March 2007. "

Farm worker's helped to stay on the land
Source: Australia. Minister for Workforce Participation. Media Release
"Over 170 people who lost their jobs as a consequence of the big dry are now back working on drought-affected farms, as part of the Australian Government’s Drought Force strategy, Minister for Workforce Participation Dr Sharman Stone said."

World first! Australia slashes greenhouse gases from inefficient lighting
Source: Australia. Minister for Environment and Water Resources. Media Release
"In a world first move, the Australian Government is taking action to phase out inefficient light
bulbs. The step, announced by Minister for the Environment and Water Resources, MalcolmTurnbull MP, should reduce Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions by 4 million tonnes by 2012."

Medical indemnity: more affordable, more secure
Source: Australia. Minister for Health and Ageing. Media Release
"Medical indemnity insurance has become more affordable according to a review of medical indemnity released by the Commonwealth Government. The review found the Government’s package of medical indemnity measures has helped curb the sharp rises in premiums doctors were experiencing before the package was introduced. At the same time, the package has been a key factor in stabilising the medical indemnity marketplace."

Consultation with the Franchising Industry Underway
Source: Australia. Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources. Media Release
"Consultation with the franchising industry is underway on the implementation of the Australian Government’s response to a review of the disclosure provisions of the Franchising Code of Conduct, with changes likely to be made law after the Budget."

Hardcore re-offenders in Government sights
Source: South Australia. Attorney General. Media Release
"Attorney-General Michael Atkinson says he is examining plans to send hardcore offenders who are alleged to have committed another serious offence while out on parole straight back to jail with no opportunity for bail."

A New Way Forward to National Water Plan
Source: Victoria. Premier. Media Release
"Victorian Premier Steve Bracks released a comprehensive national water reform plan, confirming Victoria could not sign up to the Commonwealth’s plan at Friday’s Canberra summit."

Premier's Pre-Emptive Strike in War on Ice
Source: Victoria. Premier. Media Release
"Premier Steve Bracks announced the Victorian Government would launch a pre-emptive strike on the highly addictive drug ice to prevent it gaining a foothold in Victoria."

New Program Connects Regional Students With the Arts
Source: Victoria. Minister for the Arts. Media Release
"Minister for the Arts Lynne Kosky joined students from Mornington Secondary College to launch ArtsConnect9, a program to give regional students better access to Melbourne-based arts experiences. "

Hulls Welcomes Sentence Indication and Discounts Paper
Source: Victoria. Office of the Attorney General. Media Release
"Attorney-General Rob Hulls welcomed a Sentencing Advisory Council discussion paper on the feasibility of introducing a sentence indication scheme in Victoria. The paper Sentence Indication and Specified Sentence Discounts explores the potential impact of introducing a sentence indication scheme and specified sentencing discounts on victims of crime, the courts and the Victorian community."

Bracks Unveils Reforms to Boost Victorian Exports
Source: Victoria. Office of the Premier. Media Release
"The Premier Steve Bracks announced he would give Victorian business leaders a seat at the table in determining Victoria’s export strategy – a key driver for the state’s strong economy. Mr Bracks delivered his blueprint to reform Victoria’s export strategy in a keynote speech to the Committee for Economic Development of Australia’s Economic and Political Overview 2007, saying export reform was crucial to achieving the Government’s export target of $35 billion by 2015."

$892M Plan to Boost Maths, Reading and Writing Skills
Source: Victoria. Officer of the Premier. Media Release
"Boosting teacher quality and targeting students who need help most were part of an ambitious $892 million plan to lift Victoria’s literacy and numeracy skills announced by Premier Steve Bracks. Mr Bracks said the State Government’s proposed 10-year reform of Victoria’s education system supported practical initiatives to raise reading, writing and maths skills."

Smokers Facing Tough New Butt Laws
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Tourism, Arts and Environment. Media Release
" The problem of cigarette butt litter will be addressed under tougher litter laws to be introduced in Tasmania this year. The Minister for Tourism, Arts and the Environment, Paula Wriedt, said that under the new legislation littering a cigarette butt will carry a fine of $100. "

Northern Territory Government To Reform Motor Accident Compensation Scheme
Source: Northern Territory. Treasurer. Media Release
"Changes to the Motor Accidents Compensation Scheme will improve the benefits received by Territorians who are badly injured in motor accidents, said Treasurer, Syd Stirling. Mr Stirling says the reforms will also see pressure on premium prices reduced with the removal of access to the common law for people from outside of the Territory."

Long-term strategy to tackle teacher supply and demand
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Education and Training. Media Release
"The Carpenter Government has established a high level taskforce to tackle long-term teacher supply and demand issues in Western Australia. Announcing the new initiative , Education and Training Minister Mark McGowan said it was important that there was a long-term, strategic approach to dealing with teacher attraction and retention."

New laws to put on the red light
Source: Western Australia. Attorney General. Media Release
"Brothels in Western Australia will be able to operate legally under proposed new laws to be introduced into State Parliament this year."

Planning the Future of the Logistics Industry
Source: Australia. Minister for Transport and Regional Services. Media Release
"The Government will provide the Australian Logistics Council, ALC, with $1.6 million over the next four years ($400,000 per year) to develop and lead a new strategy for the Australian transport and logistics industry."

Industry Engaged in Implementing Detail of $10 Bn Water Plan
Source: Australia. Minister for Transport and Regional Services. Media Release
"Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of The Nationals Mark Vaile said the Australian Government had agreed to continue to engage with the irrigation industry and draw on its significant expertise in the development and implementation of the $10 billion National Plan for Water Security."

New Charter Sets Sustainable Course for Developers
Source: Victoria. Minister for Major Projects. Media Release
"VicUrban’s pilot Sustainability Charter was launched by the Minister for Major Projects, Theo Theophanous, who said it will help developers to create more environmentally sustainable and prosperous communities in Victoria. The Charter sets out a commercial framework with practical criteria to guide design and help developers assess and report on the sustainability of their projects. "

Brumby Announces Grant to Establish Food Cluster
Source: Victoria. Minister for Regional and Rural Development. Media Release
"Minister for Regional and Rural Development John Brumby announced a $50,000 grant to establish a food cluster in north-east Victoria as part of a Bracks Government commitment to ensuring the region capitalises on industry strengths."

New scheme to train more SA doctors
Source: South Australia. Minister for Health. Media Release
"More local students will be able to study medicine in Adelaide under an innovative Rann Government program aimed at expanding South Australia’s medical workforce."

New Trade Schools
Source: Australian Labour Party. New South Wales. Media Release
"Premier Morris Iemma has announced an $18 million plan to create 10 new Trade Schools so students can start apprenticeships while at school."

Remote Learning Partnerships set to benefit young Indigenous Territorians
Source: Northern Territory. Minister for Employment, Education and Training. Media Release
"Improving school attendance amongst 7000 Indigenous young people in 15 remote townships is the focus of the NT Government’s Remote Learning Partnerships initiative, launched by Minister for Employment, Education and Training, Paul Henderson."

Community Services begins at School
Source: New South Wales. Department of Education and Training. Media Release
"NSW Premier Morris Iemma unveiled a bold new direction in values education through a program of community service for public high school students. The $7.8 million initiative will encourage teenagers to get involved in community service, learn new skills, foster civic pride and build on the Respect and Responsibility program."

New Directions: Maths & Science
Source: Australian Labour Party. Policy
"A Rudd Labor Government will provide $111 million over four years in financial incentives for university students to study and teach maths and science. The plan provides a double-barrelled incentive for young Australians:
We will halve the HECS fees for new maths and science students while they are studying; and

We will then halve the HECS repayments of maths and science graduates if they take up work in a relevant maths/science occupation, particularly teaching."

Early education policy directions paper
Source: Australian Labour Party. Policy
"Federal Labor will begin the education revolution by focusing on where learning begins, in the early years.
Under our plan, all Australian 4 year olds will have enshrined in a new Commonwealth Early Childhood Education Act a universal right to access early play-based learning and development programs delivered by degree-qualified teachers."

Petrol sniffing more than halved on Lands
Source: South Australia. Minister for Families and Communities, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation. Media Release
"Petrol sniffing on the APY Lands has more than halved in just 12 months, an independent report has found. The survey, carried out in September 2006 by Nganampa Health Council – an Aboriginal owned and managed health organisation on the APY Lands, shows 60 per cent less people were sniffing petrol on the Lands than around the same time in 2005. This is in addition to a 20 per cent drop recorded by Nganampa Health Council between 2004 and 2005."

Hoon cars to be home clamped
Source: South Australia. Attorney General. Media Release
"Hoon drivers, drug drivers and graffiti vandals could face having their vehicles clamped at home, impounded or forfeited under tough new measures unveiled by Attorney-General Michael Atkinson."

Reward schemes that encourage smoking to be outlawed
Source: South Australia. Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse. Media Release
" Tobacco purchases that contribute to customer loyalty reward schemes will be outlawed under proposed new legislation announced by Mental Health and Substance Abuse Minister, Gail Gago."

Dangerous offenders locked up for good
Source: South Australia. Attorney General. Media Release
"A new law announced today by Premier Mike Rann and Attorney-General Michael Atkinson will keep the State’s most dangerous offenders locked up in prison until they die."

Workforce development a key priority for SA
Source: South Australia. Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education. Media Release
"Employment Minister, Paul Caica says the State Government is giving key priority to ensuring that South Australia has the right people in the right jobs at the right time. Minister Caica told State Parliament that the Government is committed to ensuring that SA has an efficient, highly skilled workforce that supports a globally competitive economy and a socially inclusive community."

Smart Meters to Protect Our Most Precious Resource
Source: Victoria. Premier. Media Release
"Melbourne’s top industrial water users will be fitted with new high-tech water meters that can detect leaks in real time as part of another important measure to conserve water, the Premier Steve Bracks said."

New Hope for Tasmanian Wind Power
Source: Tasmania. Premier. Media Release
"The Premier joined other State leaders in signing a Declaration On Climate Change which he said would lead to better environmental outcomes for Australia into the future. The Premier said this was particularly good news for Tasmania and paved the way for expanding the State’s wind energy sector. "

Western Power launches tree-planting program
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Energy, Resources, Industry and Enterprise. Media Release
"Western Power will plant 93,000 seedlings in two towns in the State’s South-West this winter to offset the carbon emissions produced by its fleet vehicles and mobile generating facilities. "

$300million First Start - first step to help first homebuyers
Source: Western Australia. Premier. Media Release
"The State Government launched an innovative home loan initiative that will assist 3,000 Western Australian families to own their own home. Premier Alan Carpenter said the $300million First Start program was a shared equity scheme, aimed at helping first homebuyers on lower to moderate incomes to realise their dream of owning their own homes."

WA calls for trial of zero emission vehicles
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Planning and Infrastructure. Media Release
"The State Government will allow a trial of 50 small zero emission vehicles (ZEV-lites), making Western Australia the first and only State to do so, provided the Federal Government permits the cars to be imported into Australia. Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the trial was another step towards diversifying WA’s transport mix and dealing with the challenge of climate change."

Securing the Future of Aged Care for Australian
Source: Australia. Prime Minister. Media Release
"As a demonstration of my government’s continued strong commitment to fair and affordable access to high quality aged care, I am pleased to announce an additional $1.5 billion in funding for aged care services over the five years to 2010-11. "

National Plan for Water Security
Source: Australia. Prime Minister. Media Release
"I met Premiers and the Acting Chief Minister of the Australian Capital Territory to discuss the Commonwealth’s National Plan for Water Security. The plan is attached."

$2 Million for Greenhouse Friendly Refrigerants
Source: Australia. Minister for Environment and Water. Media Release
"The Australian Government will invest $2 million into the development of more greenhouse friendly refrigerants with the launch of a pilot program today that aims to replace synthetic gases in supermarket fridges with natural, lower emission alternatives."

New ‘Smartcard’ legislation introduced
Source: Australia. Minister for Human Services. Media Release
"Millions of Australians are a step closer to gaining access to a modern, simpler and more secure health and social services system with the introduction of the Human Services (Enhanced Service Delivery) Bill 2007."

Reforms secure the future for aged care
Source: Australia. Minister for Ageing. Media Release
"Senator Santoro said the Securing the Future of Aged Care for Australians package would provide the financial security needed by the aged care industry to ensure it is able to grow and meet the demands of Australia’s ageing population."

Making Tax Compliance Easier for Small Business - Consultation on the Exposure Draft Legislation for the New Small Business Framework
Source: Australia. Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources. Media Release
"The Treasurer and Minister for Small Business and Tourism released exposure draft legislation containing proposals to reduce compliance burdens for small businesses. "

Tiger Airways to Boost Domestic Tourism
Source: Australia. Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources. Media Release
"The potential entry of Tiger Airways into the domestic aviation market could provide a welcome boost to the domestic tourism market, Tourism Minister Fran Bailey said.
Tiger Airways has announced its intention to establish a new domestic airline in Australia. No details about routes have so far been announced."

Industry Urged to Have a Say on Emissions Trading
Source: Australia. Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources. Media Release
"Australian Industry and Resources Minister Ian Macfarlane encouraged industry leaders to contribute submissions to the Prime Minister's Task Group on Emissions Trading."

Reform of Franchising Code of Conduct
Source: Australia. Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources. Media Release
"The franchising industry is a highly successful $130 billion industry creating jobs for more than 600,000 Australians, but requires improvements to the disclosures section of the Franchising Code of Conduct to make the industry even more successful, a government commissioned review has found."

Skills boost for rural schools
Source: Victoria. Minister for Education Services. Media Release
"“The Rural Retraining Program is just one of the initiatives the Bracks Government has put in place to ensure that schools in rural areas can continue to offer the full range of high-quality programs to students.”

Major leap forward for WA wave-energy technology
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Energy. Media Release
"Energy Minister Francis Logan today unveiled the first of nine pre-commercialisation wave-energy units that will be installed in the ocean off North Fremantle and thoroughly tested over the next year. The company has advised that one unit can produce about one million litres of fresh water every day and has the capacity to generate 180kW of clean electricity. An array of 100 units could supply 45 gigalitres of fresh water or enough electricity to supply 20,000 households."

State Government acts to protect the health of NSW groundwater systems
Source: New South Wales. Minister for Resources. Media Release
"The NSW Government is taking pro-active steps to protect the health of the state’s groundwater systems by placing embargoes on new groundwater licences for a further 12 groundwater systems."

Winners didn't miss the bus!
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Infrastructure. Media Release
"A trial using Global Positioning Satellite technology on buses to learn more about bus usage has been successful."

Meander Dam Wall Underway
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Primary Industries and Water. Media Release
"In a great step forward for Tasmania, the Meander Dam wall is under construction."

Government to consult on recycling proposal
Source: Australian Capital Territory. Chief Minister. Media Release
"the ACT Government would move quickly to begin comprehensive community consultation on the use of recycled water, following today’s in-principle proposal by Actew to urgently investigate the recycling of waste water to boost Canberra’s potable water supply."

Tough new laws working with 1,00th hoon caught
Source: Victoria. Minister for Police & Emergency Services. Media Release
"The 1,000th vehicle has now been impounded under the Bracks Government’s tough new anti-hoon legislation."

Junk food ban in school canteens starts today
Source: Victoria. Minister for Education. Media Release
"In an Australian first, the sale of confectionery in school canteens will also be phased out from 2007 and banned by the end of 2008."

New speed cameras target school zones
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Police and Emergency Services. Media Release
"Four new speed cameras will target motorists speeding through 40km school zones from this morning as most children start the school year."

State Government stands by its Betting Exchange Legislation
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Racing and Gaming. Media Release
"The Carpenter Government will not be pressured into relenting on its betting exchange legislation which came into effect yesterday."

National Do Not Call Register Operator announced
Source: Australia. Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts. Media Release
"The Do Not Call Register is a direct response to the increasing level of community concern about the growth in unsolicited telemarketing calls."

School’s back with a new focus on student behaviour
Source: South Australia. Minister for Education & Children's Services. Media Release
"Strong new strategies to manage school students who have difficult and disruptive behaviour will be introduced this year as part of a new $10 million Rann Government initiative."

Drought Contingencies for Melbourne
Source: Victoria. Office of the Premier. Media Release
"Mr Bracks said a range of operational measures will add over 34 billion litres of water to Melbourne’s storages by the end of 2008."

Water Inquiry Welcome, But We Need Science Not Panic
Source: Northern Territory. Minister for Natural Resources, Environment and Heritage. Media Release
"Environment Minister Marion Scrymgour welcomed the announcement by Prime Minister Howard for an inquiry into water resources in northern Australia. “The task force into the possible expansion of agriculture and horticulture in northern Australia to be headed up by Senator Bill Heffernan is a logical extension of the partnerships we have formed with the Australian Government already,” said Ms Scrymgour."

NSW Government Delivers Improvements to Building Standards
Source: NSW Department of Planning. Media Release
"Planning Minister Frank Sartor announced the NSW Government had finalised a package of reforms to the building certification industry, to cut red tape and boost consumer protection. "

Coastal Strategy Supports Jobs, Housing & Environment
Source: NSW Department of Planning. Media Release
"Planning Minister Frank Sartor released a 25-year strategy to promote prosperity, protect the environment and guide jobs and housing growth on the NSW Far North Coast. "

NSW Student Assessment on Track and a Model for the Nation
Source: NSW. Education Minister. Media Release
"NSW Education Minister Carmel Tebbutt released Professor George Cooney's final report reviewing the State's assessment regime. Ms Tebbutt said the NSW Government commissioned the independent review to ensure that it had expert advice on how best to maintain the State's high standards during the transition to the new national testing programme in 2008."

40 New Police Officers Go Back to the Classroom
Source: NSW. Department of Education and Training. Media Release
"NSW Premier Morris Iemma welcomed 40 NSW Police officers as they returned to the classroom to assist the state's high schools build stronger communities. "This new service is a good investment in crime prevention and early intervention to help young people build strong relationships with the community and the police," Mr Iemma said."

Giving Our Children The Best Possible Start - Labor's Education Revolution
Source: Australian Labour Party. Media Statement
"Kevin Rudd and Jenny Macklin launched Chapter One of Federal Labor’s Education Revolution – New Directions for Early Childhood Education. A Rudd Labor Government will give all Australian four year olds the right to early childhood education. "

Australia Signs the World Wine Trade Group Agreement on Wine Labelling
Source: Australia. Minister for Trade. Media Release
"Australia's wine industry is set to become even more competitive following the signing of the World Wine Trade Group's Agreement on Requirements for Wine Labelling. The Treaty was signed by the Australian Government Minister for Trade, Warren Truss, and by representatives from 'new world' wine producing countries including the USA, Chile, Argentina, New Zealand and Canada. "

Australian Water Fund Projects
Source: Australia. Prime Minister. Media Release
"I have approved funding from the Australian Government Water Fund of more than $220 million for projects that will improve Australia’s water infrastructure and the management of Australia’s scarce water resources. "

Workplace English Language Programme Extended
Source: Australia. Minister for Education, Science and Training. Media Release
"The Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop MP, has announced the four-year extension of a programme that equips individuals with the necessary language, literacy and numeracy skills to help them retain employment and which also leads to improved productivity for their employers. "

Further Liberalising Trade Between Australia and New Zealand
Source: Australia. Minister for Trade. Media Release
"The Minister for Trade, Warren Truss said that Australian companies trading in New Zealand are set to benefit from new rules of origin arrangements under Australia New Zealand Closer Economic Relations Trade Agreement (ANZCERTA) which came into effect on 1 January 2007."

Vaile Calls on States to Take Once in Lifetime Opportunity on Water
Source: Australia. Minister for Transport and Regional Services. Media Release
""The $6 billion to be spent on modernising irrigation infrastructure will save billions of litres of precious irrigation water, 50% of which will be returned to irrigators. The measures, which include the lining and piping of channels, improved metering and the installation of drip irrigation systems will help irrigators become even more efficient. This investment will build on the significant efficiency gains that have already been delivered by irrigators both on-farm and in their distribution systems."

State joins international charge on hydrogen
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Planning and Infrastructure. Media Release
"The State Government has joined forces with six cities in Europe and Canada to promote the use of hydrogen as a sustainable transport fuel. Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan has signed a Memorandum of Understanding, along with representatives from Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, Hamburg, British Columbia and London, outlining the establishment of an international working group committed to promoting hydrogen and fuel cell technology."

New anti-graffiti and vandalism plan to be trialled
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Police and Emergency Services. Media Release
"Community Safety Minister John Kobelke has unveiled a plan to catch vandals spraying graffiti with a new mobile camera system.The evidence captured by the cameras will then be used to help police prosecute offenders."

Tough New Hoon Laws are Working
Source: Victoria. Minister for Police and Emergency Services. Media Release
"Hundreds of vehicles have been impounded since the Bracks Government introduced tough anti-hoon legislation, Police Minister, Bob Cameron, said, adding that the laws are working. “These tough new laws are about holding hoons accountable for their actions and hitting them where it hurts most – by taking away their vehicle,” Mr Cameron said."

$10 Million for Regional Victoria to Get on with Business
Source: Victoria. Minister for Agriculture. Media Release
"The Minister for Agriculture, Joe Helper, unveiled a new $10 million fund to attract new major industry and support existing industry expansion in regional Victoria. "

New Skills Campaign Launched
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Community Development. Media Release
"The State Government today launched a new advertising campaign designed to address Tasmania’s skills shortages. "

Literacy, numeracy, work skills: new goals for education
Source: South Australia. Ministers for Education and Children's Services and Employment, Training and Further Education. Media Release
"Lifting the reading, maths and work skills of more young South Australians are among major new targets for South Australia’s future. The updated Strategic Plan for South Australia, to be unveiled this week, includes a series of bold new targets to improve the State’s performance in school, training and work."

Strategic Plan update
Source: South Australia. Premier. Media Release
"Premier Mike Rann has released an update of South Australia’s Strategic Plan with a renewed focus on health, the environment, education and building a competitive economy."

Young repeat offenders to be tried as adults
Source: South Australia. Premier and Minister for Training, Employment and Further Education. Media Release
"State Cabinet is considering tough new changes to the juvenile justice system that will see young repeat offenders tried as adults in court if they continue to offend. Premier Mike Rann says young people who repeatedly thumb their nose at the system and disregard the law time and time again should be treated like adults in court."

Legislation to take education into the future
Source: South Australia. Minister for Education and Children's Services. Media Release
"The people of South Australia are being invited to help shape legislation that will govern the State’s senior secondary education for the 21st Century. Education and Children’s Services Minister Jane Lomax-Smith released a ‘discussion paper’ calling for community input into an overhaul of the 24 year-old Senior Secondary Assessment Board of South Australia Act."

Focus on the early years key to improving Aboriginal wellbeing
Source: South Australia. Minister for Families and Communities. Media Release
"Improving the literacy of Aboriginal children and a focus on their early development will be among the top priorities for South Australians over the next decade."

Innovation grants programs to boost SA business
Source: South Australia. Minister for Science and Information Economy. Media Release
"Two new State Government grants – the Innovation and Commercialisation Grant and Innovation Development Grant – will help local businesses develop new products and services and get them to market"

NSW Government Plan to Tackle Child Sexual Assault in Aboriginal Communities
Source: NSW. Department of Aboriginal Affairs. Report
"The Acting Premier and Minister for Police, and the Minister for Health released a comprehensive plan to tackle the serious problem of child sexual abuse in Aboriginal communities around NSW."

Australia - China Clean Coal Initiative
Source: Australia. Prime Minister. Media Release
"The Prime Minister announced the establishment of the ‘Australia-China Joint Coordination Group on Clean Coal Technology’ which will provide strategic guidance, oversight, and impetus to a range of clean coal activities in Australia and in China."

Review to look at ways to streamline food regulation
Source: Australia. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Media Release
"The Australian Government has announced an independent review to examine ways to streamline Australia’s food regulations and make them more nationally consistent."

First Mandatory Recycled Water for Melbourne
Source: Victoria. Office of the Premier. Minister for Water. Media Release
"Acting Premier and Water Minister John Thwaites announced the first Victorian residential estates to have mandatory recycled water. Under new legislative powers and changes to the planning system, water authorities now have the power to require whole developments to install “dual pipe” systems."

Towards a world-leading skills passport for Australian students
Source: Australia. Minister for Education, Science and Training. Media Release
"The Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop MP, has announced a consortium of universities to develop a single agreed template for an Australian Diploma Supplement. The successful consortium represents 14 universities led by the University of New England and includes the Australian National University and the University of Melbourne. "

$54 million to boost Australia’s high level engineering skills
Source: Australia. Minister for Education, Science and Training. Media Release
"The Australian Government will invest $54 million under the Incentives for Higher Technical Skills initiative so that almost 25,000 people over five years can gain high level engineering skills."

Voucher System to Strengthen Australia’s skills base
Source: Australia. Minister for Education, Science and Training. Media Release
"The Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop said that thousands of Australians will now have the opportunity to expand their skills base and job opportunities through the Australian Skills Vouchers programme which is now open for business. The vouchers are part of the $837 million Skills for the Future package announced by Prime Minister John Howard in October 2006."

National Tourism Investment Strategy
Source: Australia. Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources
"The Australian Government has accepted 34 recommendations of the National Tourism Investment Strategy: Investing for our Future (NTIS) aimed at boosting investment in our $75 billion tourism industry. Australian Government initiatives addressing the recommendations include efforts to enhance natural experiences in national parks, the Skills for the Future initiative, extending the working holiday visa scheme, research into innovation, making tourism statistics available online - a better informed industry is crucial for future planning and investment."

Government Steps up Greenhouse Response
Source: Victoria. Acting Premier. Media Release
"Acting Premier and Minister for Climate Change John Thwaites announced two initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change in Victoria. "

Extra Comment Sought on Tough Proposed Graffiti Laws
Source: Victoria. Minister for Police and Emergency Services. Media Release
"Police & Emergency Services Minister, Bob Cameron, said the Government had extended the period for public comment on the Graffiti Prevention Exposure Draft Bill, which will increase penalties for offenders and create new, stand-alone graffiti offences."

Victoria and New South Wales Finalise Water Trading
Source: Victoria. Minister for Water. Media Release
"Water Minister John Thwaites and New South Wales Minister Ian MacDonald announced that permanent interstate water trade between Victoria and New South Wales will commence on 1 January 2007."

New Alcohol Interlock Laws for Young Drivers
Source: Victoria. Minister for Roads and Ports. Media Release
"Minister for Roads and Ports, Tim Pallas urged young drivers to make safe driving their top New Years resolution and reminded young drivers of the new alcohol interlock measures that come into effect from 1 January 2007. Mr Pallas said the introduction of alcohol interlocks for first time drink driving offenders on their probationary license or aged under 26 was the first phase of the new Graduated Licensing System that was announced earlier this year."

$3 million to help farmers innovate
Source: Australia. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Media Release
“Farmers across Australia will benefit from $3 million for projects that will increase the use of innovative and sustainable agriculture practices. Australian Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Peter McGauran, said the funding would come from the Natural Resource Innovation Grants, part of the Government's $37 million 2006-07 National Landcare Programme. A list of projects is attached.

Review of the taxation of plantation forestry
Source: Australia. Minister for Fisheries, Forestry and Conservation and Minister for Revenue and Assistant Treasurer. Media Release
“Forestry and Conservation Minister, Senator Eric Abetz, and Minister for Revenue and Assistant Treasurer, Peter Dutton, announced new arrangements for the taxation of investments in forestry managed investment schemes (MIS). The new arrangements also recognise the critical role plantation forestry plays in sequestering greenhouse gases.

$54 million to boost Australia’s high level engineering skills
Source: Australia. Minister for Education, Science and Training. Media Release
“The Australian Government will invest $54 million under the Incentives for Higher Technical Skills initiative so that almost 25,000 people over five years can gain high level engineering skills. The Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop MP, today announced, on behalf of Minister for Vocational and Technical Education the Hon Gary Hardgrave MP, the range of Engineering Diploma and Advanced Diploma qualifications which will now attract employer incentive payments as part of the $837 million Skills for the Future package.”

Voucher System to Strengthen Australia’s skills base
Source: Australia. Minister for Education, Science and Training. Media Release
“The Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop said that thousands of Australians will now have the opportunity to expand their skills base and job opportunities through the Australian Skills Vouchers programme which is open for business. The vouchers are part of the $837 million Skills for the Future package announced by Prime Minister John Howard in October 2006. “Work Skills Vouchers will provide a great opportunity for Australians to attain qualifications to help them progress in their jobs or be successful in securing a job,” Minister Bishop said. “The $3000 Work Skills vouchers will provide a great opportunity for people aged 25 years and over who do not have a Year 12 or equivalent qualification and may have thought they had missed the boat as far as furthering their education or training,” Minister Bishop said.”

Renewed funding for health programs
Source: Australia. Minister for Health and Ageing. Media Release
“The Commonwealth Government has announced funding of more than $545 million for breast cancer, preventative health care and health protection programs to 2010-11.”

VICTORIA AND NEW SOUTH WALES FINALISE WATER TRADING
Source: Victoria. Minister for Water. Media Release
“Water Minister John Thwaites and New South Wales Minister Ian MacDonald announced that permanent interstate water trade between Victoria and New South Wales will commence on 1 January 2007. “Victoria has been a strong advocate for permanent interstate water trade for more than four years and today’s announcement is a major milestone,” Mr Thwaites said. Victoria and New South Wales have both accepted the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) recommendation that exit and termination fees which apply when water permanently leaves a district should be separate from the sale of water.”

Interstate Water trading
Source: SA. Minister for the River Murray. Media Release
"NSW and South Australia have today announced an important agreement to support permanent interstate water trading. NSW Minister for Natural Resources Ian Macdonald, and South Australian River Murray Minister Karlene Maywald, today announced that the States have struck a deal following the release of the Australian Consumer and Competition Commission (ACCC) report in November, and subsequent discussions between the States. "

$1000 FOR WATER SAVERS FROM JANUARY 1ST.
Source: Victoria. Minister for Water. Media Release
“Victorians are eligible for rebates on water tanks of up to $1000 Acting Premier and Water Minister John Thwaites announced today. The increased water tank rebates coincide with the move to Stage 3 Water Restrictions for Melbourne. From today, tanks purchased and installed in households connected to mains water with capacity of 5000 litres or more that are plumbed to the toilet and laundry, will be eligible for a $1000 rebate. A $500 rebate will be available for 2000-4999 litre tanks connected to either the toilet or laundry. The existing $150 rebate for tanks bigger than 600 litres not connected for indoor use will remain unchanged.”

Standard Business Reporting
Source: Australia. Treasurer. Media Release
"The Treasurer announced a new initiative to provide a significant and sustained reduction in business to government reporting burden. This will build upon the business measures announced by the Commonwealth in response to the Banks Report, to increase the scope for innovation, enhance entrepreneurial drive and increase productivity."

Exercise becomes a Multi-Fun Task for Students
Source: Victoria. Minister for Skills and Education Services. Media Release
"Education Services Minister Jacinta Allan launched a program aimed, at keeping students entertained, while also keeping them healthy. Ms Allan visited the Port Phillip Specialist School to launch the Ride for Health program through which all special schools in Victoria receive two GameBikes – exercise bikes with video game consoles."

Moves to Make Weapons Penalties Tougher
Source: Victoria. Minister for Police and Emergency Services. Media Release
"People caught carrying prohibited and controlled weapons will face tougher penalties under new legislation introduced in to State Parliament this week. Police & Emergency Services Minister, Bob Cameron, said the legislation was being introduced as part of a Bracks Government election commitment to double existing weapons penalties."

State Government to consult on non-mains water use
Source: SA. Minister for Environment and Conservation. Media Release
"The state government is considering an extension of the current statewide water conservation measures to non-mains water resources early in the new year following a period of targeted public consultation. Environment and Conservation Minister, Gail Gago said the current restrictions applied to mains water users only, which could lead to a perception that not all water users are being treated equally."

Review of University Reforms
Source: Australia. Minister for Education, Science and Training. Media Release
"The Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop MP, announced the commencement of a review into the impact of reforms on the higher education sector. Minister Bishop said that the Department of Education, Science and Training will undertake the review, which will investigate the impact on the higher education sector of the higher education reforms enacted through the Act and the 2003 Our Universities: Backing Australia's Future reform package. I will announce priorities for the next phases of the review in due course, Minister Bishop said. "

Government takes broader approach with juvenile justice strategy in Goldfields
Source: WA. Minister for Corrective Services, Women's Interest and Small Business. Media Release
"The State Government is expanding the scope of its remand centre project in the Goldfields to look at different options to deal with juvenile offenders. We are committed to developing a quality juvenile justice solution for the region that has the support of the local community.”

New water initiative launched in Merredin
Source: WA. Minister for Agriculture and Food, Forestry, the Midwest and Wheat Belt. Media Release
"Agriculture and Food Minister Kim Chance launched the Merredin Water Initiative, which is using desalinated water for road construction.Mr Chance said the project was an excellent example of an integrated water management approach developed through the combined efforts of the community, business and Government."

Carryover of Water Allocations under Consideration
Source: Victoria. Minister for Water. Media Release
"Irrigators in the Murray and Goulburn systems may be able to keep water that they don’t use in the current season for the next season as part of a drought response measure announced by Water Minister John Thwaites. This proposal would give water users a choice about when they use their scare water during this difficult dry period."

$900M In Property and Business Taxes Cut from January 1
Source: Victoria. Office of the Treasurer. Media Release
"Cuts to stamp duty, payroll tax, business rental duty and an extension of the first home owners bonus will take effect in just 12 days, Treasury John Brumby said."

Improving Tasmania’s Literacy
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Education. Media Release
" The State Labor Government will invest an extra $3 million and host a literacy summit in the first half of 2007 to further improve Tasmanian literacy rates. Education Minister David Bartlett said the focus on literacy is part of the back to basics approach to education in Tasmanian Government schools."

Crime Figures Show Long-Term Reductions
Source: NT. Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services. Media Release
"The latest Crime and Justice Statistics show long-term reductions in property crime across the Northern Territory. "

Reforms to Boost ADF Recruitment and Retention
Source: Australia. Prime Minister. Media Release
"I am pleased to announce today $1 billion in new funding over the next 10 years for a series of initiatives to boost Australian Defence Force recruitment and retention. "

Minister Announces Major Education Reforms
Source: ACT. Minister for Education and Training. Media Release
"Minister for Education and Training, Andrew Barr, announced a major reform package for public education following six months community consultation on the Government’s Towards 2020: Renewing Our Schools proposal."

Westernport focus of national climate change study
Source: Australia. Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for the Environment and Heritage. Media Release
"The Victorian community of Westernport is to take part in a nation-wide research project to identify the impact of climate change on Australian communities. Mr Hunt said the research would involve an integrated assessment of the impacts of climate change on settlements in the Westernport region. The research will draw on a range of disciplines, bringing together knowledge from economics, policy and law, social science, and climate change science to provide a better picture of how climate change will affect Australian communities. "

Australia-Japan FTA Negotiation a Valuable Opportunity
Source: Australia. Minister for Trade. Media Release
"The Minister for Trade, Warren Truss, welcomed the announcement by Prime Minister John Howard and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan that Australia and Japan would commence negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in early 2007."

Grants to boost Gourmet Food in Regional Australia
Source: Australia. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Media Release
"The production of gourmet food in regional Australia, from venison sausages to specialty ice creams, has received a boost with the Government announcing $2 million in grants for a range of food processing projects. Regional food processors make a major contribution to the Australian economy, with 40 per cent of all food processing taking place in regional areas."

New Airport Guidelines Underline Community Consultation
Source: Australia. Minister for Transport and Regional Services. Media Release
"Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Mark Vaile, announced the release of new Airport Development Consultation Guidelines which will be an integral part of future developments at Australia's 22 leased federal airports. "

Emerging Communities funding announced
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Disability Services, Citizenship and Multicultural Interests. Media Release
"Migrants and refugees in Western Australia will get increased assistance to access schools, health services, training and jobs under a new Carpenter Government initiative. Specialised liaison officers will help link newly arrived WA residents with community and Government services to enable better settlement and integration."

Manufacturing Advisory Council formed
Source: NSW. Department of State and Regional Development. Media Release
"The State Government has announced the formation of a NSW Manufacturing Advisory Council to support the role of manufacturing in the State's economy."

$33.6 Million to boost Sugar Industry's Future
Source: Australia. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Media Release
"The Australian Government has announced funding of up to $33.6 million to support sugar industry communities in Queensland, New South Wales and Western Australia. The projects will contribute to securing the future of the sugar industry. The projects are tailored to improve the industry’s efficiency levels and help it pursue options to diversify and innovate."

Grants for Managing Emergencies
Source: Australia. Attorney General. Media Release
"Local governments and volunteer organisations are being invited to apply for grants which help communities develop increased self-reliance in the face of disasters, Attorney-General Philip Ruddock said. The funding comes through an Australian Government initiative called Working Together to Manage Emergencies , which has set aside $49 million for projects across Australia. To support this initiative the Australian Government has provided $49 million over four years. "

Productivity Commission Inquiry into Australia's Consumer Policy Framework
Source: Australia. Treasurer. Media Release
"The Treasurer announced that the Productivity Commission will undertake an inquiry into Australia’s consumer policy framework and its administration. The inquiry will be the first substantial review of Australia’s consumer policy framework since 1984 and the Commission has been asked to report on ways to improve the framework to assist consumers to meet current and future challenges. The Commission will also report on ways to improve the harmonisation and coordination of consumer policy and its development and administration across jurisdictions in Australia, as well as ways to avoid regulatory duplication and inconsistency."

Minister releases Broadband Blueprint for Australia
Source: Australia. Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts. Media Release
"The Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, Senator Helen Coonan, released a Broadband Blueprint to provide a national framework for the future of broadband in Australia. It is essential for all levels of government and industry to adopt a strategic and coordinated approach to the rollout of scalable broadband infrastructure."

Release of Draft Defence Industry Policy
Source: Australia. Minister for Defence. Media Release
"All involved with the Defence industry sector are invited to read the Defence and Industry Draft Policy Statement, as it will directly and indirectly affect the way that we do business in the future. Comments on the draft statement can be provided up to 21 December 2006. "

Construction Industry Skills Blueprint for the Future
Source: Australia. Minister for Vocational and Technical Education. Media Release
"The Australian Minister for Vocational and Technical Education, the Hon Gary Hardgrave MP, launched a business-led training strategy aimed at securing Australia’s construction industry skills base for the future.The Master Builders Australia (MBA) “Training for the Future: Training Blueprint 2006-2010” calls for a partnership between governments and to ensure training strategies meet skills demand."

Australia and Chile Move towards a Bilateral Free Trade Agreement
Source: Australia. Minister for Trade. Media Release
"Minister for Trade, Warren Truss, announced that the Australian Government had agreed in-principle to commencing a bilateral negotiation process with Chile, with a view to developing a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA)."

Australia-Korea FTA Study
Source: Australia. Minister for Trade. Media Release
"The Minister for Trade, Warren Truss, announced that Australia and the Republic of Korea have agreed to conduct a joint study on a possible free trade agreement. The study will be conducted by private research institutions in both countries. Government officials will then review its findings and make recommendations to the governments."

Expert advice to keep organic R&D on track
Source: Australia. Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation. Media Release
"The Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) Organic Systems R&D Program relies on advice from a committee of experts to ensure that its R&D investments meet the needs of the rapidly expanding organics industry. A carefully-selected new Advisory Committee for 2006-2009 has been announced."

Bold strategy to conserve WA’s unique biodiversity for the next 100 years
Source: Western Australia. Minister for the Environment, Racing and Gaming. Media Release
"The Western Australian community is being urged to provide feedback on a 100-year draft strategy to conserve the State’s biodiversity. Releasing ‘A 100-year Biodiversity Conservation Strategy for Western Australia: Blueprint to the Bicentenary in 2029’, Environment Minister Mark McGowan said today that the draft strategy was bold and challenging."

Government Taskforce cuts apprenticeship red tape
Source: Western Australia. Minister for Education and Training. Media Release
"Employers will find it easier to take on apprentices with a key State Government taskforce recommending that red tape be slashed. Education and Training Minister Ljiljanna Ravlich welcomed the Skills Formation Taskforce report, which calls for less paperwork and more support for employers."

Help for GPs for mental health and substance-use patients
Source: Australia. Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Health and Ageing. Media Release
"A new project has been launched to help GPs and health workers to manage patients with substance-use disorders and mental illness. This project has been funded under the National Comorbidity Initiative, which aims to improve the capacity of general practices and divisions to recognise and effectively respond to mental health and substance-use concerns in their community."

Vaile Launches National Drive for Safety
Source: Australia. Minister for Transport and Regional Services. Media Release
"The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Mark Vaile, launched the Australian Trucking Association's National Drive for Safety 2006."

Australia Leads the Way in Copyright Reform
Source: Australia. Attorney General. Media Release
"Australia's groundbreaking reforms to the Copyright Act have strengthened owners rights and have provided certainty for users in the present digital environment."

Brough outlines blueprint for action in Indigenous Affairs
Source: Australia. Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs. Media Release
"Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Mal Brough, outlined the Government's blueprint for action in Indigenous Affairs in an address for the Indigenous Governance Series hosted by the National Institute of Governance. The Government's blueprint identifies three priority areas for special attention - early childhood intervention; safer communities; and building wealth, employment and entrepreneurial culture. It will link government action to geographic location in urban, remote and regional Australia."