Australian Labor Party Victorian Branch
State Conference April 2016
Venue Moonee Valley Racecourse McPherson Street, Moonee Ponds
Book 2 Policy Committees
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 1
REPORT OF THE ABORIGINAL & TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER (ATSI) POLICY COMMITTEE April 2016
A. MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORT 1.ELECTED POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Member Attendance Total Possible
Rosalind Byass 5 (Leave of Absence) 8
Annalivia Carli-Haman 0 8
Hana Dalton 0 8
Helen Drake 8 8
Dennis Franklin 1 (Leave of Absence) 8
Sarah Jones 7 8
Janet Laverick 8 8
Jennifer Perlstein 5 8
Anne-Marie Scully 0 (Leave of Absence) 8
Harvey Stern 7 8
Sheena Watt 5 8
Lorie Werner 0 8
Nic Wishart 1 (Leave of Absence) 8
Shane Roberts 6 (4 by phone) 8
*Leave of Absence: Rosalind Byass (3 meetings), Dennis Franklin (7), Anne-Marie Scully (8), Nic Wishart (7)
2.MINISTER, PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES & CAUCUS REPRESENTATIVES Minister/Parliamentary Secretary/Caucus Attendance Total Possible Representatives
Minister Hutchins 0 8
Adviser Allan Murray 1 8
Chief of Staff Robert La Rocca 0 8
Note: There were also several special meetings with advisers Allan Murray & Robert La Rocca involving Sheena Watt, Helen Drake, Harvey Stern, Jenne Perlstein, Janet Laverick & Lorraine Parsons.
3.ASSOCIATE POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 2
Name Attendance Total Possible
Lorraine Parsons (joined at third meeting) 6 6
Robyn Williams (joined at the most recent meeting) 1 1
Kristina Olsen 1 8
B. CORRESPONDENCE REPORT
Received / Sent Subject Date Received Action
Sent to Minister for Education Ballert Mooroop October 2015 School retained.
Sent to absent VIC ALP ATSI Ask if wish to continue January 2016 Some replies. members
Received from Minister’s Adviser Report on Progress December 2015 To consider. (Gov.)
Sent to VIC ALP Aboriginal members Policy Committee Election February 2016 Inviting to nominate.
Tim Watts MP (Caucus Secretary) Social Security Legislation February 2016 Asking the FPLP to Amendment Bill oppose the Bill: they did.
C. POLICY DEVELOPMENT REPORT
The Committee adopted a resolution proposing, in part, “That Labor advocates referring, to a relevant joint parliamentary committee, the consideration of issues surrounding the possible transfer of the celebration of ‘Australia Day’ from 26 January to 3 March, the date in 1986 that the ‘Australia Act’ came into operation in 1986, or to some alternative date, in order to render the celebration of ‘Australia Day’ fully inclusive of the diverse peoples of modern Australia.”
The Committee adopted a resolution proposing, in part, “That consideration be given to implementing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Language Week in concert with New Zealand’s Maori Language Week.”
The Committee is currently exploring the use of consistent and appropriate language when referring to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Mr. Lance Wilson (President, CAFR Policy Committee) briefed us on the discriminatory aspects of the proposed Social Security Legislation Amendment Bill. Our Policy Committee resolved to write to the Federal Caucus Secretary, Mr Tim Watts MP, asking that the FPLP oppose the Bill when it is put to Federal Parliament, which we did. Our Committee also resolved to move a resolution to this effect at the April-2016 State Conference. We are pleased to report that the FPLP has decided to oppose the Bill.
Other Policy Issues:
Indigenous Parliamentary Representation (Dr Chris Bourke)
Treaty & Self-Determination
Mining & Aboriginal People (Rosalind Byass)
Lake Tyers (Helen Drake)
Issues related to ‘Close the Gap’, ‘Aboriginal Justice’ and ‘Procurement’
1. POLICY DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH
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Plans are in place to interact with other Policy Committees (e.g. Economics, Arts & Culture, and Commonwealth Affairs) and to invite various individuals to our meetings to brief us on areas of common interest.
2. POLICY FORUMS
None have been held thus far. After State Conference, (hopefully) with vacancies on the committee filled, plans shall be developed for such events in metropolitan Melbourne and in regional Victoria, as part of the policy development process.
We have formed a Policy Forum subcommittee and a Policy Audit subcommittee (to review policies from previous ATSI Policy Committees).
D. ANY OTHER ITEMS
During the term, Nic Wishart resigned as Secretary and was replaced by Harvey Stern, and Helen Drake resigned as President, and was replaced by Sheena Watt. The Committee appointed a Deputy President (Lorraine Parsons) and a Deputy Secretary (Janet Laverick) to ensure continuity for periods when the incumbents are away from Melbourne.
There are currently 10 vacancies on the Committee, which shall be filled at State Conference.
A website is being designed, for the purpose of housing (for easy access by members) Minutes, Agendas and other documents. We are also exploring appropriate representation on the National (and Victorian) Indigenous Labor Network (NILN, VILN). Most regular meetings are held on the 4th Monday at State Office, but some shall be held at the Minister’s Office so as to enable the Minister and her Advisers to attend (this may change, once all the 10 vacancies are filled). In conclusion, we are looking at developing a strategic plan to guide our activities over the next year or two.
President: Sheena Watt Secretary: Harvey Stern
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REPORT OF THE COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS AND FEDERAL RELATIONS POLICY COMMITTEE
April 2016
A. MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORT
B. ELECTED POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS Member Attendance Total Possible
Alan McPhate 4 6
Andrew Thackrah 6 8
Andriana Mantzouranis 1 8
Brenton Baldwin 5 8
Cameron Petrie 4 7
Damien Kingsbury 3 7
Daniel Gerrard 5 8
Dean Sherr 2 7
Evan Appathuri 1 8
John Jordan 5 8
Katherine Hardy 1 8
Lance Wilson 8 8
Lydia Senior 6 8
Max Costello 7 8
Pauline Brown 6 8
Peter Gelo 6 7
Rima Tawil 4 6
Samet Istar 2 7
Ilia Vurtel 5 8
Adam Hodges 7 8
2.MINISTER, PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES & CAUCUS REPRESENTATIVES Minister/Parliamentary Secretary/Caucus Attendance Total Possible Representatives
Frank McGuire, Member for Broadmeadows 1 4
3.ASSOCIATE POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 5
Name Attendance Total Possible
Chris Smith 3 8
Damien Appoloni 1 8
Elliot Oliver 1 8
Harvey Stern 7 8
James Gaffey 4 8
Joseph Haweil 3 8
Mike Symon 3 8
Patrick Easton 2 8
B. CORRESPONDENCE REPORT
Received From Subject Date Received Action
Ivanhoe Branch Federal 9/9/15 Letter sent to Federal Government Policy Opposition Leader, Federal on Syrian Asylum ALP Secretariat and Federal Seeker intake Caucus
Ivanhoe Branch China Free trade 9/9/15 Letter sent to Federal Agreement Opposition Leader, shadow minister for Foreign Affairs, shadow minister for Trade and Federal Caucus.
Noah Carroll Associate Member 28/9/15 Noted voting rights
C. POLICY DEVELOPMENT REPORT
1. POLICY DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH
People & organisations the Policy Committee or Sub-committees have met with.
Organisation Person Topics Discussed Date
Office of the Premier Cameron Harrison Taxation reform, Federal/State 12/8/15 funding
Office of the State Sashi Belaramen Taxation reform, Federal/State 12/8/15 Treasurer funding
ALP Health Committee Rennis Witham, committee Federal funding of Victorian health 14/10/15 president care
2. POLICY FORUMS - held & proposed
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Date / Location Key Topics Guest Speakers No. of Anticipated Attendees Date
TBC TBC Currently planning with the TBC N/A Economics Committee for a forum on Taxation and Federal funding for state health expenses.
4.ANY OTHER ITEMS: A submission was made to the National Policy Forum National Platform development process in relation to potential policy on Asylum seekers and refugee policy. The proposals particularly related to Chapter 9 of the Draft Federal Platform.
President: Lance Wilson Secretary: Adam Hodges ATTACHMENT 1: SUMMARY
EXPLANATION: WHY THE ATTACHED AMENDMENTS ARE ESSENTIAL (Note: text highlighted in yellow is regarded as desirable but not absolutely essential.) (1) Labor’s asylum seeker/refugee policy needs re-calibrating to: (a) over-all, re-establish Labor's credibility and presence in this area; and (b) specifically, ensure that Labor wins public acceptance as being: (i) the only Party with a policy that: C. is principled and practical; and D. transitions Australia to an internationally acceptable long-term solution; (ii) distinctively different from – and preferable to – the extreme alternatives (unprincipled Coalition, unrealistic Greens). (2) To thus re-establish and re-position itself, Labor must: (a) commit to implementing asap Labor's long-term, regional solution – a much increased humanitarian intake, creation of UNHCR-approved transit country processing centres, and timely processing of new arrivals (in such centres) plus prompt resettlement – which, by giving asylum seekers and refugees a safe pathway that works, makes dangerous boat journeys unnecessary and unattractive; 3.accordingly, characterise the present situation as a transitional phase (pending full implementation of the regional solution), during which Labor will: 4.on the one hand, maintain some existing arrangements, including: 5.strict ‘anti- people smuggler’ measures; and 6.the Manus Island and Nauru facilities; but (ii) on the other hand, reject, curtail or moderate others – for example: reject the “illegals” tag and the fiction that unarmed boat people threaten to destroy Australia’s borders; end boat turnarounds; repeal obnoxious Coalition legislation (e.g., boat turnarounds, Temporary Protection Visas; Refugee Convention dilutions); treat asylum seekers humanely and lawfully (notably by ensuring that OHS Acts apply in full – and are complied with – at both onshore and offshore facilities); and keep asylum seeker children out of detention; and Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 7
(c) address some long-standing human rights criticisms: (i) legislate ratified international instruments into domestic law, so they’re enforceable; (ii) tell people with a negative security assessment the essential case against them so that they can respond; and (iii) devise alternatives to the life-long detention of proven security risk or stateless people. ______NOTE: (1) Amendments to the contractor arrangements paragraph are corrective – to make clear that the Commonwealth, not any contractor, is the ultimate manager of the facilities. (2) Historical facts and figures are from a June 2013 Refugee Council of Australia policy brief: it’s at: http://www.refugeecouncil.org.au/r/pb/PB1306-Regional.pdf
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ATTACHMENT 2: ANNOTATED AMENDMENTS
Migration and Refugees
Over-all perspective and principles
207. Labor believes in dealing with the complex issue of those seeking Australia’s protection by giving expression to the values of compassion, fairness and generosity. These are values which are at the heart of the Australian identity. Along with a commitment to the rule of law, they are also traditional Labor values.
208. Labor acknowledges that, as global circumstances deteriorate, more and more people are seeking asylum from war, political or cultural persecution or environmental disaster, and that, as noted in the Refugee Council of Australia’s Regional Policy Brief of June 2013 (RCA 6/13)[SOURCE REFERENCE NECESSARY TO PRE-EMPTIVELY ANSWER, “WHERE DO THOSE FIGURES COME FROM?”], one-third of all refugees with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) are in the Asia-Pacific region[VITAL FACTUAL CONTEXT]. Our policies in response are based on Labor’s values and our international obligations. Labor believes that good policies not only benefit the Australian community and asylum seekers/refugees alike, but are essential to restore and maintain Australia’s international reputation. [This next sentence was paragraph 156 of the former National Platform.] Labor will treat people seeking our protection with dignity and compassion and in accordance with our international obligations and core Australian principles of fairness and humanity. [DELETED BECAUSE IT MAINLY REPEATS THE VALUES AND INTERNATIONAL OBLIGATIONS WORDING ABOVE AND IN 209. SEE ALSO 216 AND 221 (DOT POINTS 3 &4).]
209. The issue of those seeking protection is both a global and regional one. Accordingly, in order to achieve a long-term resolution to the issue, it must be dealt with through international cooperation and not unilateral action. “Regional co-operation [is] the only viable longer-term response” [QUOTE SHOWS THE CONCEPT IS NOT JUST A LABOR THOUGHT BUBBLE]and, to that end, Australia must play a leadership role (RCA 6/13).
210. Labor’s over-all perspective acknowledges Australia’s proud heritage of bipartisanship under the Fraser, Hawke and Keating governments during which, under our region’s Comprehensive Plan of Action (CAP), 1.95 million Vietnamese, Laotian and Cambodian refugees were resettled, many in Australia[VITAL HISTORICAL CONTEXT] (RCA 6/13). Labor also looks to the future, asking, “As Australians, knowing that millions of innocent poeple are refugees, displaced or fleeing from persecution, how should we be responding over the coming decades?”
211. [ADDITIONAL WORDING BELOW NECESSITATES A PARAGRAPH BREAK HERE.]Labor’s answer is, “Better than we do now”. Specifically, in collaboration with our neighbours and the UNHCR, Labor in Government will take the lead in
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re-establishing, as soon as possible,[NEEDED – TO STRESS URGENCY] a set of principled, practicable regional arrangements along the lines of the CAP.[THE CAP REFERENCE AND THE FOLLOWING WORDING FLESHES OUT THE OTHERWISE AMORPHOUS WORD “ARRANGEMENTS”. WITHOUT SUCH CLARIFICATION, THERE COULD WELL BE CONFUSION/SUSPICION ABOUT ‘WHAT LABOR IS REALLY UP TO’.] Those arrangements would involve significantly expanding the UN’s asylum seeker and refugee facilities plus, in one or more transit countries, creating an additional processing centre (massively resourced, mainly by Australia) so that, via timely processing and prompt resettlement, dangerous sea journeys to Australia become unnecessary, thus providing a viable long-term resolution.
212. In the above context, Labor views the current situation as a transitional phase.
213. [This next sentence is the former para. 157.] Labor recognises that, under the Refugee Convention, asylum seekers have the right to seek protection and asylum and that, regardless of the mode of arrival, this is not illegal under Australian or international law. Accordingly, Labor rejects the practice of referring to asylum seekers as "illegals", and denying asylum to stateless persons (Australia ratified the 1954 and 1961 UN Conventions on Statelessness on 13 December 1973). [WHITLAM GOV’T. COMMITMENT SHOULD BE NOTED AND HONOURED.]
214. [SEPARATE POINT – HENCE NEW PARAGRAPH]Labor in government – abiding by the Refugee Convention, collaborating with neighbours and respecting their sovereignty – will not turn back boats or forcibly return asylum seekers, before their asylum claims are duly processed, to a source country or, during the transitional phase,[QUALIFYING LAST 4 WORDS NEEDED BECAUSE, ONCE UNHCR- APPROVED REGIONAL ARRANGEMENTS ARE ESTABLISHED, UNAUTHORISED BOAT ARRIVALS MAY WELL BE TRANSPORTED (BY AUSTRALIA, VIA SAFE AND APPROPRIATE MEANS) TO A TRANSIT COUNTRY PROCESSING CENTRE, AS PER THOSE ARRANGEMENTS, TO (1) DISCOURAGE DANGEROUS SEA JOURNEYS AND EMPHASISE THAT THEY ARE UNNECESSARY, AND (2) ENSURE THAT ALL ASYLUM SEEKERS TRYING TO COME TO AUSTRALIA ARE, TO THE EXTENT PRACTICABLE, TREATED EQUALLY.] a transit country. Labor will repeal the ‘boat turnback’
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legislation.
215. Labor believes that as a country Australia must not harm people. Accordingly, Labor will ensure that asylum seekers, refugees and their children – while in Australia’s care as detainees or otherwise – are treated humanely, as required by international and Australian law. [NEXT 2 SENTENCES NEEDED, GIVEN THE AHRC’S “FORGOTTEN CHILDREN” AND MOSS REPORT REVELATIONS, BECAUSE IMMIGRATION FACILITIES ARE WORKPLACES AND OHS LAWS REQUIRE WORKPLACE OPERATORS TO ENSURE HEALTH & SAFETY OF NOT ONLY WORKERS BUT ALSO “OTHER PERSONS” (IN THIS CONTEXT, ASYLUM SEEKERS AND THEIR CHILDREN) AT WORKPLACES.]Labor will ensure that the relevant health and safety Acts [STATE & TERRITORY ACTS APPLY TO SOME EXTENT TO ONSHORE FACILITIES] not only apply without exemption [A ‘SOVEREIGN BORDERS’ EXEMPTION WAS MADE IN DECEMBER 2013 UNDER THE COMMONWEALTH ACT AND FURTHER COALITION LEGISLATION FORESHADOWS MORE SUCH EXEMPTIONS – SEE SCHEDULE 4 TO THE Customs and Other Legislation Amendment (Australian Border Force) Bill 2015] to the Commonwealth, contractors and workers at all workplaces (including offshore processing centres [APPLICATION ON MANUS ISLAND AND NAURU IS CURRENTLY VERY LIMITED]) where asylum seekers and their children are housed or managed [“MANAGED” NEEDED TO COVER ON-WATER SITUATIONS], but also complied with, to protect all persons at those workplaces and ensure that children are not kept in detention. Labor will ensure that the Commonwealth Act’s independent regulator, Comcare, is well resourced. 216. A fundamental principle in treating those seeking protection with humanity is to provide as much certainty as possible. An aspiration of certainty in all matters around asylum seekers, including the duration oftime taken to assessing refugees’ their claims and, if found to be refugees or entitled to protection, the waiting period before resettlement, must underpin Australian policy.
International Engagement – the key to achieving long-term resolution
217. [Former para. 157, dot point 2.] Labor will seek to lead debate on the new agreements and understandings required to ensure that the Refugee Convention and the international protection system function effectively over the long-term, including encouraging countries in our region to provide protection to those in need. 218. [This para. is based closely on former para. 159.] Recognising that irregular movement is a regional issue that requires a co-operative regional approach, Labor will engage with Australia’s neighbours to seek innovative and effective solutions to the irregular movement of people through the region. This approach will include multilateral engagement, particularly through the Bali Process on People Smuggling, Trafficking in Persons and Related Transnational Crime (the Bali Process), and bilateral arrangements of a type envisaged by the Regional Cooperation Framework agreed at the Bali Process Ministerial Conference in March 2011.
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219. [Sentences 1 & 2 and the dot points are from former para. 154.] The phenomenon of people smuggling has a long history arising from the need for people to escape from danger and persecution. Labor also recognises that those who decide to leave a country in perilous circumstances have the right under the Refugee Convention to determine their means of departure. [The next sentence is from former para. 159.] However, recognising the risk to life of people travelling on unsafe, unseaworthy and overcrowded boats, Labor supports measures to reduce such journeys by working with regional neighbours and the UNHCR Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to eliminate any pull that people smugglers may have over vulnerable protection claimants by: Addressing people smuggling at its source; Pursuing strong regional and international arrangements which provide access to protection in countries of first asylum to deter secondary movements of asylum seekers; Developing the capacity, both in countries of first asylum and transit countries, to improve living standards and protection outcomes for asylum seekers who may be vulnerable targets of people smugglers; Expediting the claims for refugee status by asylum seekers in the region; and Substantially Iincreasing the humanitarian intake of genuine refugees from source and transit countries, thereby working through the backlog of people with refugee status to create an orderly pathway to resettlement in Australia – a pathway which, along with timely processing of new arrivals and prompt resettlement of those found to be refugees, will and [former 159] provide asylum seekers with an a persuasive alternative to irregulardangerous boat travel to Australia. [NOTE: the next two paragraphs belong under the heading “Humanitarian Migration Program”, so it has been crossed through in its original position and moved here.]
Humanitarian Migration Programme
220. [Former para. 177.] Noting that Pacific Island nations have a particular vulnerability to the effects of climate change, and that these nations have expressed a clear desire for Pacific peoples to continue to live in their own countries where possible, and acknowledging Australia’s unique responsibilities in the Pacific, Labor will: Support Pacific Islanders to remain in their homelands as the first response to this challenge; Work to assist with intra-country relocations when citizens have to be moved from low-lying areas to higher ground; and
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221. In the event that in the longer term permanent migration becomes necessary for some Pacific Islanders, work in close consultation with the region to ensure that appropriate settlement is achieved.[This sentence is part of dot point 1, former para. 157. The rest is in the paragraph after next.][CONSEQUENTIAL AMENDMENT – REQUIRED BECAUSE HEADING HAS BEEN MOVED.] Labor will continue ensure that Australia’s contribution to international aid efforts to alleviate the pressing humanitarian needs of displaced persons is substantial, as befits a relatively wealthy nation. [ADDITIONAL WORDING IMPLICITLY DISTINGUISHES LABOR’S APPROACH FROM THAT OF THE COALITION, WITH ITS MASSIVE CUTS TO FOREIGN AID.] Humanitarian Migration Programme
222. [Similar to dot point 3, former 155.] Labor aspires to progressively increase Australia’s humanitarian intake to 2730, 000 places per year. 223. [This is the rest of dot point 1, former para. 157.] In continuing Australia’s generous humanitarian program, Labor will work to provide appropriate support for the travel and resettlement of refugees and others requiring Australia’s protection. [The next sentence is from former paragraph 170.] Labor will review the financial and other assistance to Special Humanitarian Program arrivals to better address instances of financial hardship.
Australia’s Borders 224. [Reconfigure and amend this first sentence, then move it to the next paragraph, as shown.] For the Australian people to have confidence and trust in the integrity of our migration system, Labor will fund and maintain robust border security measures that support the orderly processing of migration to our country and protect our national interest and our national borders. Labor rejects the prevalent[“PREVALENT”, NOT “COALITION’S”, TO MAKE CLEAR THAT LABOR’S EMPHATIC VIEW IS CORRECT IN ITS OWN RIGHT AND NOT MERELY A REACTION TO THE COALITION’S BIG LIE.] fiction that unarmed children, women and men in small, unarmed boats are a naval force that threatens to destroy Australia’s borders. The only real risk such boat people pose is to their own lives, and so the only real challenges they pose for Australia are (1) to minimise that risk, and (2) to manage their processing and resettlement or return so as to maintain an orderly migration regime.
225. Labor will meet both challenges by funding and implementing robust measures that are appropriate, first, to the transitional phase and then to the UNHCR- approved regional arrangements, thereby maintaining ongoing public confidence and trust in the integrity of our migration system. 226. Labor will ensure that asylum seekers who arrive by irregular means will not be punished for their mode of arrival. 227. Labor is united in its commitment to prevent further loss of life at sea of vulnerable children, women and men. Labor will: [Former para. 154.] Meet its obligations to the maritime principle of safety of life at sea which requires a response to assist in the rescue at sea of vessels in distress;
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Consider introducing further penalties for serious people smuggling offences; and [Former 154.] Ensure repatriation of crew members who are proven to be juveniles.
Arrangements during the transitional phase
228. To support Australia’s strong border security regime Until – and only until – UNHCR-approved regional arrangements are established, Labor will maintain:
Maintain Aan architecture of excised offshore places; and Maintain Tthe regional processing centres on Nauru and Manus Island but ensure that they are operated according to all applicable law[NOT JUST HEALTH AND SAFETY ACTS], including by having all refugee and protection claims processed by Australian staff in accordance with Australian law; and Ensure that, during initial checking, processing of refugee/protection claims in accordance with Australian law and while awaiting resettlement or return, unaccompanied children and children with their parent/s are housed in community facilities on Australian soil (e.g., on Christmas Island), not detention centressubject to non-statutory processing on Christmas Island of persons who arrive unauthorised at an excised place, except where other arrangements are entered into under bilateral and regional arrangements.
Immigration Detention
229. [After the first three words, this sentence is dot point 1 of the former para. 168.] Under Labor’s policies, the presumption will be that unauthorised arrivals who enter for the purpose of seeking asylum will, after appropriate checks, be detained only if the need is established. 230. [This para. is closely based on the former para 168, but with some dot points deleted.] Labor’s humane and risk-based immigration detention policies and practices will be guided by key immigration detention values, namely: Three groups will be subject to mandatory detention. Labor will strive to ensure that this is for no longer than 90 days. - All unauthorised arrivals except unaccompanied children and children with their parent/s (who will be housed in alternative facilities), for management of health, identity and security risks to the community. Labor will strive to ensure this is for 90 days only[MERE REPETITION]; - Unlawful non-citizens who present proven unacceptable risks to the community; and - Unlawful non-citizens who have been proven to persistently refuse to comply with their visa conditions;
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Detention that is indefinite or otherwise arbitrary is not acceptable and the length and conditions of detention, including the appropriateness of both the accommodation and the services provided, will be subject to regular review; Detention in an immigration detention centre (IDC) or, during the transitional phase, detention of unauthorised arrivals (other than unaccompanied children and children with their parent/s) in the Nauru or Manus Island facilities[QUALIFICATION NEEDED, AS PER THE FIRST PARA. UNDER THE HEADING “Arrangements during the transitional phase”, ABOVE], is only to be used as a last resort and for the shortest practicable time; People in detention will be treated fairly and reasonably within the law; and Conditions of detention will ensure the inherent dignity of the human person. 231. [This sentence is loosely based on former para.168, dot point 3.] [IT IS CROSSED THROUGH BECAUSE THE PARAGRAPH IMMEDIATELY ABOVE MAKES IT REDUNDANT.] Labor’s humane and risk-based immigration detention policies and practices will include a commitment to ensure that after the necessary health, identity and security checks every humanly practical effort will be taken to remove children and their families from immigration detention centres (IDCs) into alternative arrangements. 232. Labor will ensure that all Australian Government involvement in detention asylum seeker/refugee facilities it operates or funds, including those on Manus Island and Nauru[TO MAKE CLEAR THAT THIS PARA. APPLIES TO ALL FACILITIES], is subject to pro-active, transparent, and independent oversight, including by health and safety regulators. Provisions for this oversight will be reflected in all contracts with service providers. Labor in government will use its best endeavours to provide for this oversight and in any relevant international agreements. 233. [Former para. 170.] Recognising the inequities of the policy of charging immigration detainees a daily maintenance rate while in immigration detention, Labor extinguished such detention debts and will oppose any attempts to reinstate this practice. 234. [Closely based on former para. 168, dot point 1.] As soon as the reasons for mandatory detention have ceased every effort must be made to remove asylum seekers from IDCs through community detention or the granting of bridging visas with work rights. Means-tested access to migration assistance should be provided while the merits of an asylum seeker’s application are assessed. 235. [Based closely on former para. 169.] ManagementThe provision of services[CORRECTION NEEDED – THE COMMONWEALTH HAS OVER-ALL MANAGEMENT: CONTRACTORS JUST PROVIDE PARTICULAR SERVICES – CATERING, SECURITY, ETC.] at IDCs and the Nauru and Manus Island facilities will remain with private sector management contractors for the term of the current contracts. In evaluating the future form of detention facility and detention services management provision, the views of all stakeholders, including the relevant trade unions must be taken into account.
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236. Labor believes protection claims made in Australia should be assessed and reviewed on the individual merits with procedural fairness ensuring that our international human rights obligations are met. Accordingly: The assessment and review of protection claims should be underpinned by robust, efficient and transparent processes that ensure fair and consistent outcomes, including access to review and independent advice; The assessment and review of protection claims must be independent and free from any political or diplomatic interference; The processing of protection claims must be streamlined to enhance the quality of decision-making, to provide more efficient pathways for prompt resolution of visa status and to alleviate the courts’ immigration case-load burden; and The Stone Review process will be maintained for the time being as an important mechanism for ensuring the fairness of Australia’s security assessment system.
237. [Opening wording plus dot point 1 are from former para. 161, dot point 4.] However, Labor will require the National Security Legislation Monitor to advise on establishing other mechanisms for means of: independent review of the adverse security assessments that ensures procedural fairness – in particular the right of the person concerned to know, and respond to, the essence of the adverse assessment case – while recognising that, without over-riding that right, processes may be required to protect intelligence sources and methodology; and management of those whose adverse assessment is upheld. 238. [Former para. 161, dot point 5.] Labor will explore options other than indefinite detention including third country resettlement to deal with refugees with adverse security assessments in a way that does not jeopardise Australia’s national security interests. 239. Reporting on the ‘90 day rule’, which requiresd that refugee status determinations arebe concluded within 90 days from the time of application, has been an important accountability measure in ensuring that the Government operates in a timely way in assessing protection applications. 240. Labor in Government will: Reintroduce the 90 day rule into the Migration Act 1958; With a view to reducing processing times, negotiate faster responses from overseas agencies, improve the staff-applicant ratio and staff training, and work consultatively with management and staff (via enterprise agreement processes where they apply) to improve efficiency; [PHASED APPROACH NEEDED FOR PRACTICAL REASONS, INCLUDING NOT CLOGGING THE COURTS BY PREMATURE INSERTION OF A COURT ORDER REQUIREMENT.]as If those improvements take have sufficient effect, progressively reduce the 90 day period accordingly;
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If the period is thus reduced to 60 days, further amend the Act to require a court order to extend detention beyond 90 days; and Aim to ultimately reduce the period to, if practicable, 30 days, with a court order then being required to extend detention beyond 60 days. 241. The existing fast track assessment process under the auspices of the Immigration Assessment Authority and the limitation of appeal rights does not provide a fair, thorough and robust assessment process for persons seeking asylum.
242. Labor in Government will abolish this fast track assessment process.
243. Labor believes the Refugee Convention plays a critical role in Australian law. Referring to the Refugee Convention in the Migration Act 1958 is good legislative practice. 244. Labor in Government will reintroduce the appropriate references to the Refugee Convention into the Migration Act and repeal Coalition amendments that dilute the Convention’s meaning and reduce its application. Labor in Government will also incorporate other relevant international instruments to which Australia is a party into Australian law, so that they apply directly, not just by inference. 245. Protection visa applications made in Australia should be assessed by Australians on Australian territory. 246. Under legislation passed by Labor, complementary protection claims should be considered by way of the protection visa framework.
Australia’s Protection 247. Those found to be owed Australia’s protection under the Refugee Convention and other international instruments should be given permanent protection under the Migration Act. 248. Those not found to be owed Australia’s protection under the Refugee Convention, Complementary Protection and other international instruments should will be promptly returned once all relevant legal avenues are exhausted. 249. Temporary Protection Visas place refugees in an ongoing state of uncertainty and prevent meaningful settlement. This creates poor outcomes for refugees and denies Australia the benefit of their contribution. 250. Labor in Government will abolish Temporary Protection Visas and provide permanent protection.
Settlement of Refugees
251. [This self-congratulatory paragraph lacks the informative detail of former paras. 159 and 160 – suggest restore as shown, plus mention that settlement assistance includes help with obtaining jobs and skills.] Australia’s The Commonwealth’s specialised and tailored settlement support services are regarded as the best in the world in connecting new arrivals to society and ensuring a seamless transition to mainstream services provided for by other levels of government. Labor is committed to maintaining this and accordingly will ensure that sufficient focus and resources are directed to our such settlement services, including:
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Orientation courses for humanitarian entrants prior to arrival in Australia; Initial intensive settlement assistance for humanitarian entrants for up to 12 months after arrival, including job referral services commencing on arrival followed by Government-subsidised skills courses; Specialised case management services where there are significant barriers to successful settlement; Orientation and referral services to build self-reliance in individuals and families and foster community participation and development; and Access to the Translating and Interpreting Service.
252. [First sentence similar to that of former para. 161 but lacking the restored (in more concise form) dot points.] Labor will work to ensure the provision of appropriate English language tuition as an essential settlement service which is critical to the achievement of full social and economic participation of refugees. Labor will continue to provide: English language programs tailored to assist new settlers, plus attendance- enabling childcare support where needed; and opportunities to continue learning English while at work, with a focus on Australian workplace culture and practices. 253. [Almost identical to former para. 164.] Labor will seek to improve the availability and integration of Commonwealth-funded migrant and settlement services. Labor will ensure settlement service policies are: Informed by advice from the Refugee Resettlement Advisory Council, the Settlement Council of Australia and other key stakeholders and the community; and Coordinated in partnership with sState and tTerritory governments, local councils, community organisations and service delivery providers. 254. [Abbreviated version of former para. 166.] Labor is committed to ensuring that services across governments for refugees are culturally responsive, universally accessible and consistent with Labor’s social inclusion agenda.
255. [Former para. 165.] Labor acknowledges the positive effect regional settlement can have on in rural locations. Labor in Government will actively encourages the settlement of suitable humanitarian entrants in regional locations with the support of sState and local governments and local communities, and, in those circumstances, will may require [CHANGE NEEDED TO PRESERVE ADMINISTRATIVE FLEXIBILITY – A HUMANITARIAN ENTRANT MIGHT HAVE, E.G., A MEDICAL CONDITION FOR WHICH SPECIALISED, FREQUENT TREATMENT IS ONLY AVAILABLE IN A MAJOR CITY, MAKING THE GENERAL REQUIREMENT INAPPROPRIATE IN THE PARTICULAR CASE]the refugees concerned to work on regional public benefit projects for a specified period during initial resettlement. The Economic and Social Contribution of Migrants and Refugees Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 18
256. [Former para. 146.] Labor recognises the economic and social contribution that has been made by migrants and refugees throughout our nation’s history. Labor regards Australia’s diversity as a source of national strength and a critical factor in nation building. 257. [Former para. 147.] Australia is and will remain a society of people drawn from a rich variety of cultural, ethnic, linguistic and religious backgrounds. Australia is and will remain a multicultural society.
258. [Former para. 148, minus one dot point and the restored words in dot point 5.] To support Australia’s multicultural society, Labor’s migration policies will: Remain non-discriminatory; Respect the heritage and traditional customs of migrants and their children; Recognise the importance of all aspects of the migration program, including skilled, family and humanitarian streams; Support Australia’s social cohesion by encouraging universal respect for Australia’s democratic beliefs and laws, and the rights, responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship; Consistently oppose those who foster extremism, hatred, criminalization of asylum seeking, ethnic division or incitement to violence; Be evidence-based, supported by rigorous research and evaluation.
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ATTACHMENT 3: CLEAN VERSION
Migration and Refugees
Over-all perspective and principles
259. Labor believes in dealing with the complex issue of those seeking Australia’s protection by giving expression to the values of compassion, fairness and generosity. These are values which are at the heart of the Australian identity. Along with a commitment to the rule of law, they are also traditional Labor values.
260. Labor acknowledges that, as global circumstances deteriorate, more and more people are seeking asylum from war, political or cultural persecution or environmental disaster, and that, as noted in the Refugee Council of Australia’s Regional Policy Brief of June 2013 (RCA 6/13), one-third of all refugees with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) are in the Asia-Pacific region. Our policies in response are based on Labor’s values and our international obligations. Labor believes that good policies not only benefit the Australian community and asylum seekers/refugees alike, but are essential to restore and maintain Australia’s international reputation.
261. The issue of those seeking protection is both a global and regional one. Accordingly, in order to achieve a long-term resolution to the issue, it must be dealt with through inter-national cooperation and not unilateral action. “Regional co-operation [is] the only viable longer-term response” and, to that end, Australia must play a leadership role (RCA 6/13).
262. Labor’s over-all perspective acknowledges Australia’s proud heritage of bipartisanship under the Fraser, Hawke and Keating governments during which, under our region’s Comprehensive Plan of Action (CAP), 1.95 million Vietnamese, Laotian and Cambodian refugees were resettled, many in Australia (RCA 6/13). Labor also looks to the future, asking, “As Australians, knowing that millions of innocent people are refugees, displaced or fleeing from persecution, how should we be responding over the coming decades?”
263. Labor’s answer is, “Better than we do now”. Specifically, in collaboration with our neighbours and the UNHCR, Labor in Government will take the lead in re- establishing, as soon as possible, a set of principled, practicable regional arrangements along the lines of the CAP. Those arrangements would involve significantly expanding the UN’s asylum seeker and refugee facilities plus, in one or more transit countries, creating an additional processing centre (massively resourced, mainly by Australia) so that, via timely processing and prompt resettlement, dangerous sea journeys to Australia become unnecessary, thus providing a viable long-term resolution.
264. In the above context, Labor views the current situation as a transitional phase.
265. Labor recognises that, under the Refugee Convention, asylum seekers have the Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 20
right to seek protection and asylum and that, regardless of the mode of arrival, this is not illegal under Australian or international law. Accordingly, Labor rejects the practice of referring to asylum seekers as "illegals", and denying asylum to stateless persons (Australia ratified the 1954 and 1961 UN Conventions on Statelessness on 13 December 1973).
266. Labor in government – abiding by the Refugee Convention, collaborating with neighbours and respecting their sovereignty – will not turn back boats or forcibly return asylum seekers, before their asylum claims are duly processed, to a source country or, during the transitional phase, a transit country. Labor will repeal the ‘boat turnback’ legislation.
267. Labor believes that as a country Australia must not harm people. Accordingly, Labor will ensure that asylum seekers, refugees and their children – while in Australia’s care as detainees or otherwise – are treated humanely, as required by international and Australian law. Labor will ensure that the relevant health and safety Acts not only apply without exemption to the Commonwealth, contractors and workers at all workplaces (including offshore processing centres) where asylum seekers and their children are housed or managed, but also complied with, to protect all persons at those workplaces and ensure that children are not kept in detention. Labor will ensure that the Commonwealth Act’s independent
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 21
regulator, Comcare, is well resourced. 268. A fundamental principle in treating those seeking protection with humanity is to provide as much certainty as possible. An aspiration of certainty in all matters around asylum seekers, including the time taken to assess their claims and, if found to be refugees or entitled to protection, the waiting period before resettlement, must underpin Australian policy.
International Engagement – the key to achieving long-term resolution
269. Labor will seek to lead debate on the new agreements and understandings required to ensure that the Refugee Convention and the international protection system function effectively over the long-term, including encouraging countries in our region to provide protection to those in need. 270. Recognising that irregular movement is a regional issue that requires a co- operative regional approach, Labor will engage with Australia’s neighbours to seek innovative and effective solutions to the irregular movement of people through the region. This approach will include multilateral engagement, particularly through the Bali Process on People Smuggling, Trafficking in Persons and Related Transnational Crime (the Bali Process), and bilateral arrangements of a type envisaged by the Regional Cooperation Framework agreed at the Bali Process Ministerial Conference in March 2011. 271. The phenomenon of people smuggling has a long history arising from the need for people to escape from danger and persecution. Labor also recognises that those who decide to leave a country in perilous circumstances have the right under the Refugee Convention to determine their means of departure. However, recognising the risk to life of people travelling on unsafe, unseaworthy and overcrowded boats, Labor supports measures to reduce such journeys by working with regional neighbours and the UNHCR to eliminate any pull that people smugglers may have over vulnerable protection claimants by: Addressing people smuggling at its source; Pursuing strong regional and international arrangements which provide access to protection in countries of first asylum to deter secondary movements of asylum seekers; Developing the capacity, both in countries of first asylum and transit countries, to improve living standards and protection outcomes for asylum seekers who may be vulnerable targets of people smugglers; Expediting the claims for refugee status by asylum seekers in the region; and Substantially increasing the humanitarian intake from source and transit countries, thereby working through the backlog of people with refugee status to create an orderly pathway to resettlement in Australia – a pathway which, along with timely processing of new arrivals and prompt resettlement of those found to be refugees, will provide asylum seekers with a persuasive alternative to dangerous boat travel to Australia. Humanitarian Migration Program
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272. Noting that Pacific Island nations have a particular vulnerability to the effects of climate change, and that these nations have expressed a clear desire for Pacific peoples to continue to live in their own countries where possible, and acknowledging Australia’s unique responsibilities in the Pacific, Labor will: Support Pacific Islanders to remain in their homelands as the first response to this challenge; Work to assist with intra-country relocations when citizens have to be moved from low-lying areas to higher ground; and In the event that in the longer term permanent migration becomes necessary for some Pacific Islanders, work in close consultation with the region to ensure that appropriate settlement is achieved. 273. Labor will ensure that Australia’s contribution to international aid efforts to alleviate the pressing humanitarian needs of displaced persons is substantial, as befits a relatively wealthy nation.
274. Labor aspires to progressively increase Australia’s humanitarian intake to 30, 000 places per year. 275. In continuing Australia’s generous humanitarian program, Labor will work to provide appropriate support for the travel and resettlement of refugees and others requiring Australia’s protection. Labor will review the financial and other assistance to Special Humanitarian Program arrivals to better address instances of financial hardship.
Australia’s Borders 276. Labor rejects the prevalent fiction that unarmed children, women and men in small, unarmed boats are a naval force that threatens to destroy Australia’s borders. The only real risk such boat people pose is to their own lives, and so the only real challenges they pose for Australia are (1) to minimise that risk, and (2) to manage their processing and resettlement or return so as to maintain an orderly migration regime. 277. Labor will meet both challenges by funding and implementing robust measures that are appropriate, first, to the transitional phase and then to the UNHCR- approved regional arrangements, thereby maintaining ongoing public confidence and trust in the integrity of our migration system. 278. Labor will ensure that asylum seekers who arrive by irregular means will not be punished for their mode of arrival. 279. Labor is united in its commitment to prevent further loss of life at sea of vulnerable children, women and men. Labor will: Meet its obligations to the maritime principle of safety of life at sea which requires a response to assist in the rescue at sea of vessels in distress; Consider introducing further penalties for serious people smuggling offences; and Ensure repatriation of crew members who are proven to be juveniles.
Arrangements during the transitional phase
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280. Until – and only until – UNHCR-approved regional arrangements are established, Labor will: Maintain an architecture of excised offshore places; Maintain the regional processing centres on Nauru and Manus Island but ensure that they are operated according to all applicable law, including by having all refugee and protection claims processed by Australian staff in accordance with Australian law; and Ensure that, during initial checking, processing of refugee/protection claims in accordance with Australian law and while awaiting resettlement or return, unaccompanied children and children with their parent/s are housed in community facilities on Australian soil (e.g., on Christmas Island), not detention centres.
Immigration Detention
281. Under Labor’s policies, the presumption will be that unauthorised arrivals who enter for the purpose of seeking asylum will, after appropriate checks, be detained only if the need is established. 282. Labor’s humane and risk-based immigration detention policies and practices will be guided by key immigration detention values, namely: Three groups will be subject to mandatory detention. Labor will strive to ensure that this is for no longer than 90 days. - All unauthorised arrivals except unaccompanied children and children with their parent/s (who will be housed in alternative facilities), for management of health, identity and security risks to the community; - Unlawful non-citizens who present proven unacceptable risks to the community; and - Unlawful non-citizens who have been proven to persistently refuse to comply with their visa conditions; Detention that is indefinite or otherwise arbitrary is not acceptable and the length and conditions of detention, including the appropriateness of both the accommodation and the services provided, will be subject to regular review; Detention in an immigration detention centre (IDC) or, during the transitional phase, detention of unauthorised arrivals (other than unaccompanied children and children with their parent/s) in the Nauru or Manus Island facilities, is only to be used as a last resort and for the shortest practicable time; People in detention will be treated fairly and reasonably within the law; and Conditions of detention will ensure the inherent dignity of the human person.
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 24
283. Labor will ensure that all Australian Government involvement in asylum seeker/refugee facilities it operates or funds, including those on Manus Island and Nauru, is subject to pro-active, transparent and independent oversight, including by health and safety regulators. Provisions for this oversight will be reflected in all contracts with service providers and in any relevant international agreements. 284. Recognising the inequities of the policy of charging immigration detainees a daily maintenance rate while in immigration detention, Labor extinguished such detention debts and will oppose any attempts to reinstate this practice. 285. As soon as the reasons for mandatory detention have ceased every effort must be made to remove asylum seekers from IDCs through community detention or the granting of bridging visas with work rights. Means-tested access to migration assistance should be provided while the merits of an asylum seeker’s application are assessed. 286. The provision of services at IDCs and the Nauru and Manus Island facilities will remain with private sector contractors for the term of the current contracts. In evaluating the future form of detention facility service provision, the views of all stakeholders, including the relevant trade unions must be taken into account.
Refugee Assessment
287. Labor believes protection claims made in Australia should be assessed and reviewed on the individual merits with procedural fairness ensuring that our international human rights obligations are met. Accordingly: The assessment and review of protection claims should be underpinned by robust, efficient and transparent processes that ensure fair and consistent outcomes, including access to review and independent advice; The assessment and review of protection claims must be independent and free from any political or diplomatic interference; The processing of protection claims must be streamlined to enhance the quality of decision-making, to provide more efficient pathways for prompt resolution of visa status and to alleviate the courts’ immigration case-load burden; and The Stone Review process will be maintained for the time being as an important mechanism for ensuring the fairness of Australia’s security assessment system.
288. However, Labor will require the National Security Legislation Monitor to advise on establishing other means of: Independent review of the adverse security assessments that ensures procedural fairness – in particular the right of the person concerned to know, and respond to, the essence of the adverse assessment case – while recognising that, without over-riding that right, processes may be required to protect intelligence sources and methodology; and Management of those whose adverse assessment is upheld. 289. Labor will explore options other than indefinite detention including third country resettlement to deal with refugees with adverse security assessments in a way that does not jeopardise Australia’s national security interests. Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 25
290. Reporting on the ‘90 day rule’, which required that refugee status determinations be concluded within 90 days from the time of application, has been an important accountability measure in ensuring that the Government operates in a timely way in assessing protection applications. 291. Labor in Government will: Reintroduce the 90 day rule into the Migration Act 1958; With a view to reducing processing times, negotiate faster responses from overseas agencies, improve the staff-applicant ratio and staff training, and work consultatively with management and staff (via enterprise agreement processes where they apply) to improve efficiency; If those improvements have sufficient effect, progressively reduce the 90 day period accordingly; If the period is thus reduced to 60 days, further amend the Act to require a court order to extend detention beyond 90 days; and Aim to ultimately reduce the period to, if practicable, 30 days, with a court order then being required to extend detention beyond 60 days. 292. The existing fast track assessment process under the auspices of the Immigration Assessment Authority and the limitation of appeal rights does not provide a fair, thorough and robust assessment process for persons seeking asylum. 293. Labor in Government will abolish this fast track assessment process.
294. Labor believes the Refugee Convention plays a critical role in Australian law. Referring to the Refugee Convention in the Migration Act is good legislative practice. 295. Labor in Government will reintroduce the appropriate references to the Refugee Convention into the Migration Act and repeal Coalition amendments that dilute the Convention’s meaning and reduce its application. Labor in Government will also incorporate other relevant international instruments to which Australia is a party into Australian law, so that they apply directly, not just by inference. 296. Protection visa applications made in Australia should be assessed by Australians on Australian territory. 297. Under legislation passed by Labor, complementary protection claims should be considered by way of the protection visa framework.
Australia’s Protection 298. Those found to be owed Australia’s protection under the Refugee Convention and other international instruments should be given permanent protection under the Migration Act. 299. Those not found to be owed Australia’s protection under the Refugee Convention, Complementary Protection and other international instruments will be promptly returned once all relevant legal avenues are exhausted. 300. Temporary Protection Visas place refugees in an ongoing state of uncertainty and prevent meaningful settlement. This creates poor outcomes for refugees and denies Australia the benefit of their contribution.
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 26
301. Labor in Government will abolish Temporary Protection Visas and provide permanent protection.
Settlement of Refugees
302. The Commonwealth’s specialised and tailored settlement support services are regarded as the best in the world in connecting new arrivals to society and ensuring a seamless transition to mainstream services provided for by other levels of government. Labor is committed to maintaining such settlement services, including: Orientation courses for humanitarian entrants prior to arrival in Australia; Initial intensive settlement assistance for humanitarian entrants for up to 12 months after arrival, including job referral services commencing on arrival followed by Government-subsidised skills courses; Specialised case management services where there are significant barriers to successful settlement; Orientation and referral services to build self-reliance in individuals and families and foster community participation and development; and Access to the Translating and Interpreting Service.
303. Labor will work to ensure the provision of appropriate English language tuition as an essential settlement service which is critical to the achievement of full social and economic participation of refugees. Labor will continue to provide: English language programs tailored to assist new settlers, plus attendance- enabling childcare support where needed; and opportunities to continue learning English while at work, with a focus on Australian workplace culture and practices. 304. Labor will seek to improve the availability and integration of Commonwealth- funded migrant and settlement services. Labor will ensure settlement service policies are: Informed by advice from the Refugee Resettlement Advisory Council, the Settlement Council of Australia and other key stakeholders and the community; and Coordinated in partnership with State and Territory governments, local councils, community organisations and service delivery providers. 305. Labor is committed to ensuring that services across governments for refugees are culturally responsive, universally accessible and consistent with Labor’s social inclusion agenda. 306. Labor acknowledges the positive effect regional settlement can have in rural locations. Labor in Government will actively encourages the settlement of suitable humanitarian entrants in regional locations with the support of State and local governments and local communities, and, in those circumstances, may require the refugees concerned to work on regional public benefit projects for a specified period during initial resettlement. The Economic and Social Contribution of Migrants and Refugees
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 27
307. Labor recognises the economic and social contribution that has been made by migrants and refugees throughout our nation’s history. Labor regards Australia’s diversity as a source of national strength and a critical factor in nation building.
308. Australia is and will remain a society of people drawn from a rich variety of cultural, ethnic, linguistic and religious backgrounds. Australia is and will remain a multicultural society.
309. To support Australia’s multicultural society, Labor’s migration policies will: Remain non-discriminatory; Respect the heritage and traditional customs of migrants and their children; Recognise the importance of all aspects of the migration program, including skilled, family and humanitarian streams; Support Australia’s social cohesion by encouraging universal respect for Australia’s democratic beliefs and laws, and the rights, responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship; Consistently oppose those who foster extremism, hatred, criminalization of asylum seeking, ethnic division or incitement to violence; Be evidence-based, supported by rigorous research and evaluation.
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 28
REPORT OF THE CONSERVATION, ENVIRONMENT AND RESOUCES POLICY COMMITTEE
April 2016
A. MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORT
E. ELECTED POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Member Attendance Total Possible
ANDERSON, Sue 6 6 BYERS, Susie 4 6 CHERRY, Luke 5 6 DOYLE, James 4 6 FORSTER, Christine 5 6 GAFFEY, James 4 6 HEALY, Ernest 6 6 KATTER, Carl 0 0 KILPATRICK, Stephanie 3 3 LEWIS, Marg 5 5 MARKS, Samantha 2 6 McCALL, Lachlan 3 6 PALMER, Silas 5 5 PARKER, Connor 4 6 POMMER, Liz 5 6 POWER, Zac 5 6 REDFEARN, David 6 6 RICHARDS, Andy 4 6 SHEPHERD, Kim 4 6 WACEY, Travis 3 6
4.MINISTER, PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES & CAUCUS REPRESENTATIVES
Minister/Parliamentary Secretary/Caucus Attendance Total Possible Representatives Anthony Carbines MP (Parl Sec & Caucus Rep) 3 6 Geoff Howard MP (Caucus Rep) 0 6 Shaun Leane MP 1 1
5.ASSOCIATE POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Name Attendance Total Possible COLEE, Sinead 0 FORSTER, Peter 5 6 LEWIS, David 4 6 TREWIN, Blair 6 6
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 29
Name Attendance Total Possible WALLER, Ewan 0 6
B. CORRESPONDENCE REPORT
Received From Subject Date Received Action Graham Proctor Increase in Prices Jan 2016 Yet to be discussed of Gas and other Energy
C. POLICY DEVELOPMENT REPORT
1. POLICY DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH People & organisations the Policy Committee or Sub-committees have met with.
Organisation Person Topics Discussed Date Victorian Government Tim Sonnreich Working effectively with the October 2015 Victorian Government. Upcoming Opportunities
Invasive Species Andrew Cox, CEO Policy Matters October 2015 Council Matt Sheehan, Policy Officer
2. POLICY FORUMS - held & proposed
Policy Committees are expected to conduct three Policy Forums - one in the metropolitan area, one in the outer suburbs and one in regional Victoria, as part of the policy development process.
Date / Location Key Topics Guest Speakers No. of Anticipated Attendees Date April 10, 2016 State Conference Environmental Justice Minister - Felicity Millner, Environmental Justice Australia August 2016 Regional Victoria Agriculture and TBA - Environmental Issues November Metropolitan Climate Change & Energy TBA - 2016 Victoria TBC Regional Victoria Coal Seam TBA - Gas/Unconventional Gas
D. ANY OTHER ITEMS
The policy committee has embarked on a significant review of the Policy that led to the Platform at the 2013 conference, looking at what elements of the policy did not get picked up by the platform process, how we can strengthen these policy areas and ensure the Government has a strong policy to back up its environmental action.
Further to this, our first policy forum is being held as a fringe event at the April 2016 State Conference, so we look forward to exploring what Environmental Justice means in the Victorian
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 30
context and how we can build the principles of environmental justice into almost all Government Activities.
President: David Redfrearn Secretary: Silas Palmer
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 31
Country Labor Executive Report April 2016
Country Labor Executive (CLX) have conducted four regional forums since the March 2015 State Conference. Information and ideas from our forums have provided a basis for policy discussions and recommendations that will be tabled at the 2017 State Conference. Eastern Victoria Forum - Churchill, Sunday May 17, 2015 (number of attendees 70) 9.30 am Arrive - Coffee/Tea served 9.30. Forum opening remarks 9.40 am Hon Jaala Pulford MLC - Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional Development 10.00 am “Love our Lakes” - Gippsland Lakes Ministerial Advisory Committee - Martin Richardson 10.30 am Gippsland Update - Harriet Shing MLC 10.45 am Morning Tea 11.15 am Heart Morass - how collaboration restored an iconic wetland. 11.45 am Gippsland Update - Dan Mulino MLC 12.15 pm LUNCH 1.15 pm Community Sport - Travis Switzer, Regional Manager AFL Gippsland 1.45 pm Gunai Kurnai Lands and water corporation 2.15 pm Panel - Harriet Shing MLC, Daniel Mulino MLC, Hon Jaala Pulford MLC 2.45 pm Forum Close
Northern Victoria Forum - Chiltern, Sunday 16th August 2015 (Number of attendees 50) 8:55 am Welcome, Marg Lewis, President, County Labor Executive 9:00 am Forest Management, Phillip Ingamells 9:20 am Local Food Policy Options, Tammi Jonas 9:40 am Bushfire Management, Graham Parton 10:10 am Deerstalkers 10:30 am Rural Health, Shane Kirk, CEO Indigo North Health 11:00 am Morning tea 11:15 am Tertiary Education, Felicity Williams, CEO The Centre Wangaratta 11:40 am Totally Yackandandah, Matt Charles Jones 12:00 noon The Beehive Project, Paul McGill 12:30 pm Government Regional Update, Jacyln Syme, Labor Party Parliamentary Whip, Member for Northern Victoria and Daniel Mulino, Parliamentary Secretary for Treasury & Finance, Member for Eastern Victoria, Mary-Anne Thomas Member for Macedon, Parliamentary Secretary for Health 1:00 pm Light Lunch - followed by a "meet the branch members" informal conversation for introduction and raising important issues of interest, including introduction of Eric Kerr, Labor Candidate for Indi
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 32
Western Victoria Forum - Ararat, Sunday 18th October 2015 (Number of attendees 70) Climate Change and Renewable Energy - A Rural Perspective 9.30 am Registration, tea & coffee 10.00 am Marg Lewis - President Country Labor Executive 10.05 am Hon. Jaala Pulford MP Minister for Agriculture & Regional Development 10.15 am Explaining Climate Change Dr Blair Trewin - Climate Scientist 10.45 am Impact of Climate Change on Rural shires Paul Hooper -Mayor Ararat Rural City Council Justine Linley - CEO Northern Grampians Shire 11.45 am Gayle Tierney MP - Update on Western Region Dr Danniel Mulino, Parliamentary Secretary for Treasury & Finance 12.15 pm Lunch 12.45 pm Mark Wooton Chair of the Climate Institute - Climate impact on Agriculture 1.30 pm Dave Brennan, CEO Wimmera CMA - Carbon Ready Plan 2.00 pm Close Forum attendeesEastern Victoria 65) Forum - Kongwak, Sunday 6 March 2016 (Number of 9.30 am Arrival 10.00 am Welcome and acknowledgements: John Anderson, Country Labor Executive 10.15 am Gippsland update: Harriet Shing, Member for Eastern Victoria Region, 10.45 am Planning for a changing environment: Councillor Andrew McEwan, South Gippsland Shire 11.15 am Towards a Carbon Free Future: Nick Withers, Labor Environment Action Network 11.45 am The Earthworker Co-operative Story: Mark Tyler 12.10 pm KEYNOTE: The Hon. Lily D'Ambrosio, Minister for Energy, Industry and Resources Lunch (gold coin donation) 1.10 pm CMA's, the Challenges and Opportunities: Angus Hume, Chair, Victorian CMC 1.45 pm Industrial Relations in Gippsland: Steve Dodd, Gippsland Trades & Labour Council 2.15 pm Lessons from Silicon Valley: Daniel Mulino, Member for Eastern Victoria Region 3.00 pm Close
Regional Forums planned for 2016 are Northern Victoria, Echuca in July/August and Western Victoria, Portland in October.
CLX would like to extend a special thanks to our MPs, Hon. Jaala Pulford, Hon. Lily D’Ambrosio, Daniel Mulino, Harriet Shing, Jacyln Syme , Gayle Tierney, and Mary-Anne Thomas who all presented reports and discussions at our regional forums.
CLX would also like to thank all of the branch members, candidates and volunteers who helped ensure that the regional forums were well attended and organized.
President: Marg Lewis Secretary: Jadon Mintern
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 33
REPORT OF THE CULTURE, SPORT AND TOURISM POLICY COMMITTEE April 2016
A. MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORT
F. ELECTED POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Member Attendance Total Possible Kieran Barns-Jenkins 7 7 Simon Walliker 5 7 Marcus Feaver 7 7 Chris Jervis 5 7 Adam Elvish 4 7 James Gaffey 3 7 Anthony Cahill 5 7 Ashton Shannon 2 7 Barry Palta 0 7 Ben Maxfield 0 7 Brendan Orders 1 7 Dean Sherr 2 7 Evan Appathurai 0 7 Hana Dalton 3 7 Helen Morrison 2 7 Luke Creasey 2 7 Lydia Senior 1 7 Lynda Newton 2 7 Sandra Willis 1 7 Sucettin Unal 0 7
MINISTER, PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES & CAUCUS REPRESENTATIVES
Minister/Parliamentary Secretary/Caucus Attendance Total Possible Representatives Danielle Green MP - Caucus Member 0 4 Josh Bull MP - Caucus Member 0 4 Simon Shiell, Representative for Minister Garrett 1 7 Representative for Minister Foley 0 7 Representative for Minister Pakula 0 7 Representative for Minister Eren 0 7
ASSOCIATE POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Name Attendance Total Possible Brian Dunn 5 7 Gurninder Singh 1 7 Tony O'Donoghue 6 7 Alex Drummond 1 1 Natali Klasevski 0 1 Sel Sanli 0 5 Jim Yuncken 4 5
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 34
B. CORRESPONDENCE REPORT Received From Subject Date Action Received VIC Labor HQ Count back results various Actioned Minister Foley Thank you for your feedback 03/09/2015 Tabled & discussed & invitation, copy of federal correspondence Dr Daniel Mc Diamid Alpine Resorts Management 28/09/2015 Forwarded Minister Eren for consideration & to Tourism & Events sub-committee for further discussion Minister Pakula Thank you for your feedback 01/10/2015 Tabled & discussed & invitation Anthony Cianflone, Advisor Sport, Tourism & Events 16/02/2016 Tabled and engaged Hon John Eren MP platforms & policy Lauren O'Dwyer, Advisor Internal movements, Arts & 18/02/2016 Tabled and engaged Hon Martin Foley MP Culture platforms & policy Graham Proctor Cruise Potential of Victoria 29/02/2016 Discussion at meeting 23/03/2016
C. POLICY DEVELOPMENT REPORT
1. POLICY DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH People & organisations the Policy Committee or Sub-committees have met with. Organisation Person Topics Discussed Date Various key arts n/a The close of the Australia Council July 2015 organisations to create the National Programme of Excellence in Arts and the subsequent raid of smaller arts organisations P.R.O.V. n/a Online art collections August 2015 Various contemporary n/a Submission advice and NGM September 2015 music organisations Government scheme Federal Member for Joanne Ryan MP Poker Machine Gaming in November 2015 Lalor Melbourne’s West
2. POLICY FORUMS - held & proposed
Policy Committees are expected to conduct three Policy Forums - one in the metropolitan area, one in the outer suburbs and one in regional Victoria, as part of the policy development process.
Date / Anticipated Location Key Topics Guest Speakers No. of Date Attendees Proposed May 2016 Melbourne’s Poker Machine Gaming Local ALP MPs, Addiction n/a West in Melbourne’s West. experts, Mathematician
D. ANY OTHER ITEMS Policy Committee President Alex Drummond resigned from the committee and Kieran Barns-Jenkins was elected President.
4 Policy Sub-Committee were formed each with a Convener: Arts & Culture – Chris Jervis Sport & Activity – James Gaffey Racing & Gaming – Marcus Feaver Tourism & Events – Adam Elvish President: Kieran Barns-Jenkins Secretary: Simon Walliker
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 35
REPORT OF THE ECONOMICS, INNOVATION, EMPLOYMENT AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT POLICY COMMITTEE April 2016
A. MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORT
ELECTED POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Member Attendance Total Possible
Liz Aird (since September 2015, associate member 3 7 previously)
Ronit Asseraf 6 7
Ryan Batchelor 1 7
Tony Bates 2 7
Nick Brain (until December 2015) 6 6
Anthony Cianflone 0 7
Mary Dettman 5 7
Samil Demir 5 7
Darren Dwyer 7 7
Carina Garland 4 7
Mark Gazic 4 7
Daniel Gerrard 5 7
Peter Hawkins 7 7
Andriana Mantzouranis 1 7
Godfrey Moase 5 7
Louise Persse 6 7
Joshua Roose 1 7
Lydia Senior (until August 2015) 2 2
John Speight 4 7
Abigail Stapleton 0 7
Sheena Watt 5 7
MINISTER, PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES & CAUCUS REPRESENTATIVES
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 36
Minister/Parliamentary Secretary/Caucus Attendance Total Possible Representatives
Minister for Industry, Energy and Resources, Lily 29 September 2015 D’Ambrosio, and Chief of Staff, Ian Porter – briefing to the committee
Treasurer, Tim Pallas and advisor, Felix Moon – briefing to 11 November 2015 the committee
ASSOCIATE POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS Name Attendance Total Possible
Evan Appathurai 0 7
Christian Bombig 3 7
Tony Clarke 3 7
Jack Coleman 0 7
Max Costello 6 7
Bernard de Jonk 1 7
Dennis Franklin 0 7
Con Georgiou 0 7
Mark Gepp 0 7
Nathan Ivetic 0 7
Steve Kent 0 7
Marcus L’Estrange 2 7
Lachlan McCall 0 7
Nicholas McLennan 0 7
Alan McPhate 2 7
Hovig Melkonian 1 7
Richard Parker 1 7
George Phillips 0 7
Susil Piyanandana 4 7
Zac Power 0 7
Daniel Shields 1 7
Richard Parker 0 7
Adam Sullivan 1 7
Pierce Tyson 0 7
Travis Wacey 0 7
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 37
B. CORRESPONDENCE REPORT - None
C. POLICY DEVELOPMENT REPORT
The committee’s area of policy coverage is very broad, and as a result, we have spent our early meetings defining our specific areas of interest, receiving ministerial briefings, and developing a work plan for 2016.
The committee has formed a platform audit subcommittee, which has commenced work on this task. The committee has also decided to form working groups in three policy areas:
(iv) Future of Work and Inclusive Prosperity (v) Regulatory Tax Reform (in conjunction with the Commonwealth Affairs and Federal Relations PC) (vi) Energy Transition/Green New Deal (in conjunction with the Environment PC).
1. POLICY DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH
People & organisations the Policy Committee or Sub-committees have met with.
Organisation Person Topics Discussed Date
Prosper Australia Karl Fitzgerald Land taxation 24 February 2016
2. POLICY FORUMS - held & proposed
Final proposals for policy forums will be developed by the working groups outlined above, with the intention of commencing these in the second half of 2016.
D. ANY OTHER ITEMS
Nick Brain resigned from the both the committee and his role as President in December 2015, due to work and personal commitments. The Committee is grateful for Nick’s leadership during its early life, especially his strong role in developing a framework for our operations over the rest of our term. Godfrey Moase took on the role of President from January 2016.
President: Godfrey Moase Secretary: Louise Persse
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 38
REPORT OF THE EDUCATION AND YOUTH AFFAIRS POLICY COMMITTEE
April 2016
A. MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORT
G. ELECTED POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Member Attendance Total Possible Aird, Liz 6 8
Berthelsen, Michael 4 8
Sinead Colee (fr 17/12/15) 0 1
Curtis, Chris 8 8
De Jonk, Bernard 6 8
Farah, Omar (to 9/7/15) 0 3
Fogarty, Jett (fr 18/8/15) 4 5
Hall, Cate 6 8
Emran Karacan (fr 31/7/15) 1 4
Kennedy, John 5 8
Klasevski, Natali 4 8
Lee, Bruce 6 8
Lewis, Marg 8 8
Morris, Wendy 8 8
Faisal Najibi (fr 17/12/15) 0 1
Ohlmus, Lisa 4 8
Orders, Brendan (to 18/8/15) 1 4
Pope, Kevin 4 8
Russell, John 4 8
Steele, Rose 1 7
Stevens, Laura 3 8
Symon, Mike 7 8
Terpstra, Sonja 7 8
Van Vliet, Catherine 7 8
5.MINISTER, PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES & CAUCUS REPRESENTATIVES
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 39
Minister/Parliamentary Secretary/Caucus Attendance Total Possible Representatives Paul Edbrooke (fr 1/9/15) 0 4
Maree Edwards (fr 1/9/15) 0 4
Judith Grayley 1 8
Steve Herbert 1 8
James Merlino 0 8
Jenny Mikakos 1 8
Please note that the ministers and the parliamentary secretary have also attended briefings with the whole committee or the president and secretary that do not count as formal meetings of the committee.
6.ASSOCIATE POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS Name Attendance Total Possible Adam Abramovich 0 8
Judith Brooks (fr 9/7/15) 2 6
Henry Corcoran 6 8
Ross Dean (to 19/10/15) 5 5
Callum Dodd 1 1
Lesley Fielding 3 8
Sam Harrison (fr 12/2/16) 1 1
Kate Jackson (fr 11/6/15) 0 8
Steph Kilpatrick (res 23/12/15) 1 7
Marcus L’Estrange 6 8
Ray Macmaster (fr 11/6/15) 4 8
Linda Maxwell (to 15/8/15) 2 3
Tim Murtagh (to 28/10/15) 1 7
Maureen O’Flahety 2 8
Isa Pendragon 3 8
Cynthia Pilli 6 8
Tim Rickwood (fr 21/10/15) 1 2
James Rogerson 0 8
Lydia Senior 4 8
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 40
Daniel Shields 0 8
Greg Stanfield 4 8
David Vadori 0 8
Henk van Leeuwen (to 3/8/15) 3 3
B. CORRESPONDENCE REPORT
Received From / Sent to Subject Date Action
Fr & to Nic Abbey (VICSSO) Congratulations/Thanks 28/5/2015 Thank you To Defeated committee candidates Associate membership 5/6/2015 NA Fr various recipients of the above Acceptance 5-6/72015 Add to lists To new associate members Background material 7/6/2015 NA To Omar Farah, Rose Steele, Reminder re attendance Various dates NA Kevin Pope, Brendan Orders , Michael Berthelsen, Emran Karacan, Laura Stevens To Cesar Melhem, Jude Perera, Contact with Committee Various dates Add to email list Khalil Eideh, Philip Dalidakis, Brendan O’Connor, Nova Perris, Deborah O’Neill, Sam Dastyari Fr Christopher Jones (ALP) Office entry requirements 1/7/2015 Refer to EYAPC To Omar Farah, Rose Steele, Vacation of position Various dates Countback request Emran Karacan To & fr Christopher Jones Countback requests Various dates NA To Vic National Conference Platform amendments 16/7/2015 NA delegates To Emran Karacan, Jett Fogarty, Welcome to EYAPC 31/7/2015 NA Judith Graykey, Paul Edbrooke, Maree Edwards, Sinead Colee, Faisal Najibi Fr & to Henk van Leeuwen, Linda Resignation/Thanks Various dates Thanks Maxwell, Brendan Orders, Ross Dean, Stephanie Kilpatrick, Tim Murtagh, Vince O’Grady To James Merlino Thanks for briefing 11/8/2015 NA To Jett Fogarty, Judith Graykey, Welcome to committee Various dates NA Paul Edbrooke, Maree Edwards, Sam Harrison To Steve Herbert Thanks for Awards Dinner 7/9/2015 NA To [email protected] Why no forwarding 12/10/2015 Await response!!! To & fr James Merlino EYAPC advice on 28/10 & Follow-up discussion by teachers/ Thanks 18/12/2015 president & secretary To & fr Stephen Dinham Invitation to 9/11/2015 NA forum/acceptance To James Merlino Funding submission 17/11/2015 NA To & fr Steve Bracks Funding submission/ Various dates NA Request to meet To Kim Carr Invitation re auto industry 7/12/2015 NA Fr James Merlino Response re language 14/12/2015 NA targets
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 41
Received From / Sent to Subject Date Action
To Maria Napolitano, Nicole Ministerial representation 7/2/2016 NA O’Connor, Niki Romas To Nicole Lynch Early childhood material 14/2/2016 NA Fr & to Pam Lyons, Ellis Jones Associate membership 18/2/2016 Reply Fr Maria Napolitano Meetings at Parliament 18/2/2016 Notify 3/5 now 24/5 Fr& to Ilsa Colson Policy responses/Thanks 2, 5&6/3/2016 Thanks To Daniel Andrews Asylum-seeker support 6/3/2016 NA To James Merlino Asylum-seeker support 6/3/2016 NA To Stephen Lamb Invitation to fringe event 6/3/2016 NA
The above is a summary. The full list of correspondence runs to five pages and is available to delegates on request.
C. POLICY DEVELOPMENT REPORT
1. POLICY DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH People & organisations the Policy Committee or Sub-committees or president and secretary have met with.
James Merlino – 5/3/2015, 11/5/2015, 8/7/2015,10/8/2015, 7/10/2015, Steve Herbert – 8/8/2015, 18/8/2015, 15/9/2015 Jenny Mikakos – 8/8/2015, 18/8/2015,11/2/2016 Judith Grayley – 10/8/2015, 24/8/2015, 21/10/2015 Bruno Bello – 14/2/2015 Steve Bracks – 1/12/2015 Emily Forrest – 14/12/2015 Peter Moar – 7/11/2015, 14/2/2015 Ian Porter – 23/2/2016 Goran Rouse – 14/2/2015
2. POLICY FORUMS - held & proposed
Policy Committees are expected to conduct three Policy Forums - one in the metropolitan area, one in the outer suburbs and one in regional Victoria, as part of the policy development process.
Date / Anticipated Location Key Topics Guest Speakers No. of Date Attendees 11/6/2016 To be determined Education State Stephen Dinham and - Implementation others
D. ANY OTHER ITEMS
President: Marg Lewis Secretary: Chris Curtis
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 42
REPORT OF THE HEALTH, COMMUNITY SERVICES & SENIOR VICTORIANS POLICY COMMITTEE
April 2016
A. MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORT
H. ELECTED POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Member Attendance Total Possible Martin APPLEBY 7 7 KAtarina ARANDJELOVIC 2 7 Phillip BAIN 5 7 Annalivia CARLI-HANNAN 0 7 Khaled CHAKLI 0 7 Helen CONSTAS 0 7 Graeme DOIG 5 7 Ken EDWARDS 5 7 Valerie GERRAND 6 7 Matt HAMMOND 2 7 Peter HARRIS 3 7 Rae KILKENNY 3 7 Quinn MCGUINESS 5 7 Marj MUNRO 6 7 Sel SANLI 4 7 Lydia SENIOR 2 7 Simon WALIKER 0 7 Leon WIEGARD 0 7 Robyn WILLIAMS 6 7 Rennis WITHAM 7 7
6.MINISTER, PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES & CAUCUS REPRESENTATIVES
Minister/Parliamentary Secretary/Caucus Attendance Total Possible Representatives Randle JUSTIN 1 7 Davydd GRIFFITHS 1 7
7.ASSOCIATE POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Name Attendance Total Possible Robert CARTER 2 7 Bernie CHATLEY 6 7 Luke CREASEY 0 7 Andrew DAY 0 7 Paul HEALEY 6 7 Kate MAXFIELD 3 7 Abdullah MOHAMMAD 0 7
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 43
Name Attendance Total Possible Barry PALTA 0 7 Liz POMMER 1 7 Dirk SAUER 0 0 Anne SCULLY 0 7 Danny SHAVITSA 2 Daniel SHIELDS 1 7 Adrian SPINELLI 0 7 Michael TAYLOR Frank THOMPSON 0 7 Kim TRAVERS 0 7 Tom WALSH 0 Peter WELLS 1 7 Ilia VURTEL 7 7 David WILINGTON 0 7
B. CORRESPONDENCE REPORT
Received From Subject Date Action Received MSAV Pathology 08/10/2015 Discussion Testing
C. POLICY DEVELOPMENT REPORT
1. POLICY DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH People & organisations the Policy Committee or Sub-committees have met with.
Organisation Person Topics Discussed Date Dr Stephen Duckett Hospital Funding September 2015 Commonwealth/State Agreement Peter Wells, Dorevitch Private Pathology Services October 2015 Pathology
2. POLICY FORUMS - held & proposed
Policy Committees are expected to conduct three Policy Forums - one in the metropolitan area, one in the outer suburbs and one in regional Victoria, as part of the policy development process.
None to Date.
Date / Location Key Topics Guest Speakers No. of Anticipated Attendees Date
D. ANY OTHER ITEMS
President: Rennis Witham Secretary: Martin Appleby
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 44
REPORT OF THE INDUSTRIAL AFFAIRS POLICY COMMITTEE 9-10 APRIL 2016 A. MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORT
I. ELECTED POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Member Attendance Total Possible Lisa ALCOCK 1 8
Thomas ALOMES 3 8
Robert BOZINOVSKI 5 8
David CRAGG (Sec) 6 8
Greg DAVIS 6 8
Cassandra DEVINE 3 8
Karen DOUGLAS 7 8
Elisa FERNANDES 3 8
Rob GRAAUWMANS 4 8
Tim GUNSTONE 0 8
Jackson HITCHCOCK 0 8
Sunil KEMPPI 5 8
Mauro MORETTA 4 8
Sam POPOVSKI (Pres) 5 8
Stephen ROACH 3 8
Kim SHEPHERD 5 8
Amy STUBBERFIELD 4 8
Mike SYMON 7 8
Rima TAWIL 5 8
Wickman WITHANA 2 8
7.MINISTERS, PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES & SPLP MEMBERS
Shadow Minister/Parl Sec/SPLP Attendance Total Possible
Hon. Natalie HUTCHINS, MP 1 2
Hon. Robin SCOTT, MP
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 45
Shadow Minister/Parl Sec/SPLP Attendance Total Possible
Madeline MOORE (Advisor) 3 4
Bronwyn HALFPENNY MP (Caucus) 1 2
ASSOCIATE POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Name Attendance Total Possible
Barry AGG 2 8
Christian BOMBIG 1 4
Anthony CAHILL 7 8
Jessica DAWSON-FIELD 1 2
Amy JENKINS 1 2
David O’BRIEN Zac POWER Daniel SHIELDS
James SINGH 3 8
Dylan WIGHT 3 4
CORRESPONDENCE REPORT
Received From Subject Date Received Action
(iii) POLICY DEVELOPMENT REPORT
(vii) POLICY AUDIT
Document to be audited Not Commenced Completed / Anticipated /Anticipated Start Date Completion Date
2014 State Election Platform December 2014 May 2018
2016 Federal Election Platform
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 46
State Platform IR Area Summary
Secure employment, Implemented a comprehensive inquiry into insecure work and labour addressing insecure work hire industries. Work still to be done, including on Government tendering and licensing, which the Committee will address in collaboration with responsible Government Ministers. Government as model Achieved a bargaining policy and central bargaining unit (CBU). employer, including Work still to be done on additional policies and maximising Victorian Public Service effectiveness of the CBU (this is addressed in recommendations contained within this report). Protecting workers rights Strengthened legislative/regulatory protections for Victorian workers. and standards Work still to be done to further protect vulnerable workers, based on recommendations that will arise from the insecure work and labour hire inquiry (this is addressed in recommendations contained within this report). Health and safety Further work needs to be done with Platform commitments in the health and safety area following State Conference by the Committee in collaboration with responsible Government Ministers. Public holidays Delivered a public holiday on the Friday before AFL Grand Final Day. Work still to be done on other public holidays, particularly Christmas Day falling on a weekend (this is addressed in recommendations contained within this report). Long service leave Implemented a review into long service leave, which should have significant impacts on improving this important provision for Victorian workers (this is addressed in recommendations contained within this report).
POLICY DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH
The Policy Committee has met eight (8) times – on 7 July, 3 August, 1 September, 5 October, 4 November and 7 December 2015 – and on 2 February and 1 March 2016.
Following April State Conference, the Policy Committee plans to work on Workcover (WorkSafe Victoria) policies, and on a Review of the Fair Work Act, including in relation to addressing insecure and precarious employment. The Policy Committee will approach the Federal Parliamentary Party (federal caucus) committee on industrial relations for a joint meeting.
People & organizations the Policy Committee or Sub-committees have met with.
Organization Person Topics Discussed Date
Urban Affairs Policy Terry LARKINS, UAPC State Government policy on 4 November 2015 Committee President Municipal Rates including possible IR impacts
3. POLICY FORUMS - held & proposed
Policy Committees are expected to conduct three Policy Forums - one in the metropolitan area, one in the outer suburbs and one in regional Victoria, as part of the policy development process.
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 47
Date / Location Key Topics Guest Speakers No. of Anticipated Attendees Date Metropolitan Insecure Employment
Outer Suburban Insecure Employment
Regional Insecure Employment
“Labor Listens” style forums in early evenings. These should involve outreach to particular NESB communities, including at regional centres, jointly with TLCs. The Committee will concentrate on organising policy forums following April State Conference.
Insecure Employment
Roughly 40% of the Australian workforce is now engaged on non-permanent terms (about 25% as casuals, and a further 15% on fixed-term contracts) – this change has revolutionized the Australian workplace over the past 25 years. From having among the highest levels of permanent employment in the industrially developed world, Australia now has the second- lowest (only ahead of the United States).
Workers in insecure employment are the easiest part of the workforce to exploit – and, not surprisingly, have disproportionately high levels of women (including women re-entering the workforce), young workers and workers from NESB backgrounds. A Labor response to this challenge will draw on different elements – possibly including legislative initiatives, regulatory requirements, and a FWA test case to develop generally-accepted community standards.
It is also important to expose the false premises on which Liberal IR policy is marketed – including that “flexibility” in the economy requires the return of Work Choices-style individual work contracts, and that productivity is delivered through this “flexibility”. It is widely acknowledged in the global economy that productivity can only be driven by longer term investments in infrastructure, skills and education, with secure, quality jobs.
4. POLICY DEVELOPMENT - PRINCIPLES & VALUES
There has been no review of the values statement that was put in place by the previous IA Policy Committee. In terms of policy development, the Committee has identified a wide range of both State and Federal Policy areas that require further discussion and recommendation. In particular, the Committee is keen to ask questions, and hear what issues are concerning people in their working lives. We don’t believe we already have all the answers, or that responses to some problems are even obvious yet. But the need for a positive IR agenda for Labor is obvious, including a grass-roots campaign that engages existing and new support bases. We hope to make a useful contribution to that process in coming months and years.
RECOMMENDATIONS – NATIONAL POLICY
The Victorian Industrial Affairs Policy Committee recommends to National Executive & National Platform Committee the following items of policy reform for consideration and adoption:
IMPROVEMENTS TO NATIONAL EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 48
At the end of the next Parliament, the National Employment Standards will have been in operation for ten years without substantial revision. In a number of respects the NES need to be improved to protect workers. It is the Committee’s view that matters requiring amendment include the following:
REQUESTS FOR FLEXIBLE WORKING ARRANGEMENTS The Fair Work Act should be amended to allow the Fair Work Commission to arbitrate on requests from employees where the employer is found to have unreasonably withheld their approval.
FAMILY VIOLENCE LEAVE A new and additional standard – on the entitlement of every Australian worker to access a minimum level of Family Violence Leave, available in family violence circumstances – should be added to the NES.
Section 63 Averaging of hours of work shall be for a specified period of not more than 26 weeks (consistent with S.64).
Parental Leave The NES should incorporate provisions of the Fair Work Commission test case standard
Beginning of maternity leave
Under the Commission test case standard, maternity leave can be commenced at any chosen time subject to the provision of appropriate notice to an employer.
Under the NES, maternity leave can only begin at a time up to 6 weeks prior to the expected date of birth. To begin maternity leave at a time earlier than 6 weeks prior to the expected date of birth, the employer and employee must agree (Section 71(3)).
This is an unreasonable and unnecessary restriction.
Return to part time work
The NES makes no provision for the return to work part time for which the Commission test case standard provided. Although the provision requires the employer's agreement, at least it is clear that there is the potential to do so. Once the employer agrees to the option, there is the provision for reversion to full-time work two years of part time work. This is a clear right that has been taken away by the NES.
This right needs to be restored.
(B) Twenty four (24) months upfront
Section 76 of the Fair Work Act provides that an employee can make an application to extend parental leave by a second 12 months, but the employer may refuse such a request on 'reasonable business grounds'. There are two problems with this –
1. A person cannot ask for 24 months of parental leave up front. The need to wait for 12 months and then make a second application for parental leave with added uncertainty as to whether the leave will be granted in many cases; and The employer has the right to refuse the request on very broad and subjective grounds.
The parental leave entitlement up to 24 months needs to be unqualified.
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 49
(C) Section 76(7)
Section 76(7) reads despite any other provision relating to parental leave, an employee cannot ask to extend maternity leave beyond 24 months. This could be read as prohibiting an award or agreement from having a clause providing a parental leave entitlement longer than 24 months. The Fair Work Act should explicitly allow an award, enterprise or other agreement between an employees and employers to include a provision for more than 24 months parental leave.
Sections 90, 99, 106, 111, 116 Payment of wages during annual leave, personal/carer’s leave, compassionate leave, jury service and public holidays shall be inclusive of any regular shift or other penalty rates.
Section 96 The full quota of personal/carer’s leave shall be available from the commencement of the second and each subsequent year instead of accruing progressively. Leave in the first year shall fully accrue in the first six months.
Sections 104, 105 There shall be an entitlement to five days compassionate leave in the case of a partner, child or parent.
Section 111 Remove the limitation of ten days of payment by the employer in the case of absence on jury service. The obligation on employers to provide make up pay should be based on the jury service period.
Section 114 Delete subsection (4) and replace with the following: A refusal by an employee shall be deemed to be reasonable except where an employee is engaged in the provision of essential services, in-patient health services, accommodation services, continuous production or any other class or classes of enterprise specified in the regulations (“the excepted industries”). In the excepted industries the employer shall take into account the employee’s personal circumstances, including family responsibilities. Any dispute about the working of employees in the excepted industries may be referred to the Fair Work Commission which is empowered to determine the matter by conciliation and, if conciliation is unsuccessful, by arbitration.
Section 115(1) Add as additional public holidays the following Monday and/or Tuesday, as appropriate, whenever Christmas Day, Boxing Day or New Year’s Day fall on a Saturday or a Sunday and an additional public holiday on Easter Sunday. All of these are contained within the ALP policy platform adopted in 2015.
Section 115 (2) Exclude Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and Easter Sunday from the substitution provisions. This is consequential on the adopting the provision at Section 115(1) above.
Section 119 Improve the amount of redundancy pay to the standard set by the NSW Industrial Commission, as follows:
Under 45 years of age Less than 1 year continuous service Nil 1-2 years 4 weeks’ pay
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 50
2-3 years 7 weeks 3-4 years 10 weeks 4-5 years 12 weeks 5-6 years 14 weeks 6 years and over 16 weeks
45 years of age or over Less than 1 year continuous service Nil 1-2 years 5 weeks’ pay 2-3 years 8.75 weeks 3-4 years 12.5 weeks 4-5 years 15 weeks 5-6 years 17.5 weeks 6 years and over 20 weeks
“Weeks’ pay” means the all purpose rate of pay for the employee concerned at the date of termination, and shall include, in addition to the ordinary rate of pay, merit payments, loadings and allowances paid in accordance with the relevant clauses of the employment instrument.
Division 8 - Community Service Leave
Add a new provision granting employees an entitlement of up to two hours paid time off (inclusive of any applicable penalty rates) for a maximum of four occasions per year for the purpose of donating blood.
Blood Donor leave existed in Victorian state and federal awards arising out of a Commission test case and therefore an accepted standard entitlement for employees for decades. However, the Howard Liberal Government’s change in legislation in the late 1990s automatically removed the entitlement from awards.
RECOMMENDATIONS – STATE POLICY
The Victorian Industrial Affairs Policy Committee recommends to State Conference the following items of policy reform for consideration and adoption:
ONE – PUBLIC INQUIRY INTO THE LABOUR HIRE INDUSTRY AND INSECURE WORK
State Conference commends the initiative of the Victorian Government starting in late 2015 a public inquiry into the labour hire industry and insecure work, being conducted by Professor Anthony Forsyth. We hope the inquiry will identify possible legislative and administrative initiatives at the state and local government levels, and help frame the debate for future reforms at the national level.
Conference believes that the exploitation of vulnerable workers often depends on workers being denied information about the employment rights, often through being denied by their employer advice from, representation by, and access to membership of their Union. Any Government response to the recommendations of the inquiry should consider an on-going Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 51
commitment of substantial resources to both an official government agency such as the former Office of the Employment Advocate and to non-government sources of public advice such as JobWatch, community legal centres, the Young Workers Centre and other community groups that can assist and represent workers in labour hire and precarious employment. Government should also ensure all available legislative and policy tools enshrine the right of workers to access their union and provide for substantial penalties on any employer who attempts to restrict an employee’s access to their union.
TWO – STATE GOVERNMENT EMPLOYMENT POLICIES
State Conference welcomes the positive initiative of the Victorian Government in tabling a clear and consistent Bargaining Policy for use across all government departments and agencies, and values the Government’s commitment to a transparent and settled approach to future enterprise bargaining in the Victorian public sector. This is in marked contrast to the dysfunctional and incoherent approach to wages and working conditions shown by the previous Coalition State Government.
Conference therefore looks forward to the development of additional government policies, ideally by the end of 2016, addressing the following crucial areas:
Capability Framework policy including local procurement and local supply chains Commitment to Union Encouragement policy Outsourced Government Work policy to address the parameters of outsourcing, processes for approval of outsourcing, the security and continuity of employment remaining in Victoria, and the maintenance and encouragement of union representation for affected employees Public Sector Employment Security policy, and Women at Work policy including active strategies to encourage and support female workforce participation
THREE – CENTRAL BARGAINING UNIT
State Conference expresses concern that attitudes from the failed Coalition Government 2010-2014 may still have some currency amongst some management levels in the Victorian public sector. Conference commends the 2014 election promise, already delivered by the Andrews Government, to create a Central Bargaining Unit within the VPS, to coordinate enterprise bargaining outcomes.
To enable the Unit to do its work effectively, and in a timely manner, Conference asks the Government to examine how the Unit can be empowered with the ability to actively intervene in bargaining discussions at the departmental and agency level to minimize logjams and unnecessary delays in moving negotiations through to a quick and efficient conclusion.
FOUR – LONG SERVICE LEAVE REVIEW
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 52
State Conference commends the Victorian Government on its review into the reform of Long Service Leave (LSL). LSL is an entitlement of employment that continues to be within the legislative prerogative of state governments. The review identifies issues of serious concern that need to be addressed. State Conference notes some of the following issues addressed by the LSL review that need improvement:
Portability Conference believes that broadening the base for Portable LSL – subject to financial viability – is a meaningful contribution that the Victorian Government could make to reducing some of the unfair impact on Victorian workers of precarious and insecure working arrangements.
The achievement of Portable LSL for Victoria’s building and construction workers, legislated through the COINVEST agency, is a robust and viable model suitable for adoption in other industry sectors. Conference encourages the Government to consider rolling out as a matter of urgency Portable LSL for other distinct industries. While a universal portable scheme is ostensibly preferable, Conference recognizes that, as a transitional phase, self- contained schemes industry-by-industry are better able to achieve financial viability more quickly.
Accrual Conference acknowledges that some breaks from work, such as 12 months’ unpaid maternity leave do not accrue LSL. Such is the case if a female employee is receiving Commonwealth parental leave benefits. Furthermore, any unpaid maternity leave beyond 12 months will break continuity of service and accrual for the purposes of LSL is then restarted. The fact that the Fair Work Act allows for unpaid maternity leave beyond 12 months and given increased female participation in the workforce, the current LSL legislation in effect creates a further disparity between female and male employees in terms of the accessibility of LSL.
Conference believes that by allowing the LSL to accrue while an employee is on unpaid leave will eliminate this disparity and make the application of LSL fairer.
Calculation LSL legislation deals with a change in hours of work over time in the calculation of LSL so that hours of work are averaged over the previous 12 months or over 5 years (whichever is the greater). However, Conference expresses concern that there is no similar provision for the averaging of LSL where there is a change in classification over time. Especially, if the result is a drop in pay for an employee prior to accessing LSL without recognition of the higher remuneration the employee may have received during their previous years of service.
Also today, with growth in the retail and service sectors, millions of employees work longer hours which extend to unsociable hours of evenings and weekends, receiving shift penalties and loadings. Shift penalties and loadings are not included in the calculation of LSL. This also acts as a disincentive for employees to take their LSL.
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 53
Conference believes that employees should not be disadvantaged when accessing LSL, especially where the result is a considerable loss of income when they take LSL.
FIVE – 2016 CHRISTMAS DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY
State Conference notes that in 2016 Christmas Day falls on a Sunday. The Victorian Public Holidays Act provides that the Christmas Day public holiday will substitute to Tuesday 27 December 2016. Accordingly, Christmas Day (25 December) currently will not be a public holiday in Victoria in 2016.
State Conference also notes that in 2016, Christmas Day (25 December) is a public holiday in NSW, Queensland, SA, WA, Tasmania and the ACT. Consequently, Victoria is currently the only State of Australia in which Christmas (25 December) is not a public holiday in 2016. Workers required to work on Christmas Day (25 December) in Victoria in 2016 will be disadvantaged because they will not receive public holiday entitlements. State Conference therefore calls on the Victorian Government to consider gazetting 25 December 2016 as a public holiday in Victoria to ensure that workers receive public holiday entitlements on Christmas Day.
D. ANY OTHER ITEMS
The Industrial Affairs Policy Committee makes a general offer to provide guest speakers to Branches as well as to receive input and feedback on IR issues. Branch secretaries are invited to contact the Committee via Head Office.
Sam Popovski David Cragg PRESIDENT SECRETARY
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Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 54
REPORT OF THE LGBTI Affairs POLICY COMMITTEE April 2016 A. MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORT
ELECTED POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Member Attendance Total Possible
Greg Adkins 6 7 Justin Butler Seat declared vacant: Rule 3 7 8.6.10 Tim Christodoulou Resigned 11 Feb 16 5 6 Luke Creasey 6 7 Andrew Day Seat declared vacant: Rule 0 6 8.6.10 Karen Douglas 4 6 Ella Fabry 3 6 Luke Gahan Resigned 28Jul15 0 2 Jamie Gardiner 6 7 Carl Katter Seat declared vacant: Rule 0 6 8.6.10 Hiba Marhfour Seat declared vacant: 0 6 Rule 8.6.10 Lachlan McCall Resigned 24Nov15 3 4 Stephanie Morgan Seat declared vacant: Rule 1 6 8.6.10 Rowan Payne Seat declared vacant: Rule 2 6 8.6.10 Nathan Robertson Seat declared vacant: Rule 1 6 8.6.10 Steve Staikos 5 6 Wil Stracke 2 5 Mark Thompson 4 7
Note: “Total possible” excludes special leave of absence under Rule 8.6.10
MINISTER, PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES & CAUCUS REPRESENTATIVES
Minister/Parliamentary Secretary/Caucus Attendance Total Possible Representatives Danny Pearson MP 0 3
ASSOCIATE POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Name Attendance Total Possible Jim Hyde 3 4 Janet Jukes 1 4 Tom Steel 1 4 Chris Lai 1 3
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 55
Name Attendance Total Possible Stuart Stark 1 3 Jay Morrison 1 2 Ruby Mountford 1 1 Sarah Cole 1 5 Steve Michelson 1 7 B. CORRESPONDENCE REPORT
Received From Subject Date Received Action
Nil (not counting routine admin)
C. POLICY DEVELOPMENT REPORT
1. POLICY DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH People & organisations the Policy Committee or Sub-committees have met with.
Organisation Person Topics Discussed Date Stuart Stark PrEP (HIV Pre-Exposure 10 Sep 2015 Prophylaxis)
2. POLICY FORUMS - held & proposed
Policy Committees are expected to conduct three Policy Forums - one in the metropolitan area, one in the outer suburbs and one in regional Victoria, as part of the policy development process.
Date / Location Key Topics Guest Speakers No. of Anticipated Attendees Date
7 Nov 2015 Shepparton— Surveying participants on na 50+ Out In The issues of concern Open festival
D. ANY OTHER ITEMS An important activity of the Committee early in its term was to contribute to the National Platform at the July 2015 National Conference. Committee members worked with interstate colleagues to translate many of its State-based policies incorporated in the 2014 State Platform into nationally appropriate forms, and helped craft many policy amendments and additions to extend the Platform’s commitment to human rights and LGBTI equality and dignity in particular. Almost all of the Committee’s proposals were adopted.
President: Steve Staikos Secretary: Jamie Gardiner
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REPORT OF THE TRANSPORT POLICY COMMITTEE April 2016 J. MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORT
ELECTED POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Member Attendance Total Possible
Evan Appathurai 0 6
Ronit Asseraf 5 6
Richard Clarke 6 6
Sinead Colee 0 6
Amedeo D’Aprano 6 6
Hanna Dalton 1 6
Jessica Dawson-Field 0 6
Alexander Drummond 0 6
Giuseppe Maisano 5 6
Dissio Markos 3 6
Kathleen Matthews-Ward 3 6
Hovig Melkonian 0 6
Jeff Moorhead 4 6
John Parker 4 6
Elizabeth Pommer 3 6
Bastian Simrajh 3 6
Amy Stubberfield 4 6
Jan Thompson 4 6
Carlo Vinci 4 6
Rodney Watson 4 6
MINISTER, PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES & CAUCUS REPRESENTATIVES
Minister/Parliamentary Secretary/Caucus Attendance Total Possible Representatives
ASSOCIATE POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Name Attendance Total Possible Adam Ford 0 6
BErnard Shepherd 4 6
Adam Abramovich 0 6
James Bashford 0 6
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Name Attendance Total Possible Anthony Cahill 5 6
Anthony Cianflone 0 6
Brian Dunn 4 6
Constantine Georgiou 0 6
Paul Hamer 4 6
Elefterios Konstandelis 4 6
Declan McGonigle 0 6
Jason Murray 2 6
Faisal Najibi 0 6
Cameron Nash 0 6
Silas Palmer 0 6
Robert Partleton 0 6
Zachary Power 0 6
Andrew Richards 0 6
Lloyd Rouse 0 6
Adam Rundell 0 6
Vijendra Singh 6 6
Donald Townsend 6 6
Michael Watson 0 6 (iv) CORRESPONDENCE REPORT Received / Sent Subject Date Received Action Kathleen Matthews-Ward Active Transport 15/9/15 Shared with Committee and discussed Bernard Sheperd Regional Rail Transport 14/9/15 Shared with committee with preliminary discussion. Sub- committee established to further investigate policy options.
POLICY DEVELOPMENT REPORT Organisation Person Topic Discussed Date
Centre for Workplace Daniel Nicholson Disruptive Nature of the 5/2/16 Leadership Ride Sharing industry and policy approaches to offer workers and consumers appropriate protections.
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Organisation Person Topic Discussed Date
South and West Max Semken Rail access to 3/3/16 Gippsland Transport Melbourne for Regional Group commuters
(viii) POLICY FORUMS - held and proposed
None
D. ANY OTHER ITEMS There should be more communication between policy committees. The committees should have support from the Minister or Shadow Ministers office so there is a direct link between the committee and the Ministers office.
President: John Parker Secretary: Amedeo D’Aprano
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 59
REPORT OF THE URBAN AFFAIRS, HOUSING, LOCAL GOVERNMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE POLICY COMMITTEE April 2016
A. MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORT
ELECTED POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Member Attendance Total Possible
Xiaoli, MA 7 7
Terry, LARKINS 7 7
Catherine, MURPHY 5 7
Robert, BOZINOVSKI 4 7
Kara, HADGRAFT 3**** 7
Justin, MAMMARELLA 1**** 7
Michelle, JACKSON 4** 7
Jack, COLEMAN 1 7
Maree, WILLIAMS 7 7
Abdullah, MOHAMMAD 4** 7
Rachel, HAYNES 4*** 7
Jacinta, ERMACORA 4*** 7
Anna, GROGAN 0 7
Anthony, CIAFLONE * (COUNT BACK) 2
Cameron, NASH 3 7
Carl, MELKONIAN 0 7
James, MILETO 4*** 7
Evan, AAPPATHURAI 1 7
Adam, SULLIVAN 1* 7
Angus, MIDDLETON 4 7
Simon, WALLIKER 1 (RESIGNED) 1
Marg, LEWIS 1 (GUEST) 1
Christian Anderson 1 (GUEST) 1
MINISTER, PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES & CAUCUS REPRESENTATIVES
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Minister/Parliamentary Secretary/Caucus Attendance Total Possible Representatives
Minister Foley (1 in person, 6 office representation – 6 6 Julian Campbell)
Minister Wynne (1 in person, 6 office representation – 6 6 Peter Keogh, Glen Brandum, Andrew Harrington, Jo Bowers, Alana MacWhirter, Mitra Anderson-Oliver)
Minister Hutchins (1 in person, 2 office representation – 6 6 Pat Cook)
Daniel Mulino MP (Parliamentary Caucus * 2 Representative)
ASSOCIATE POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS Name Attendance Total Possible
Konstandelis (Terry), ELEFTHERIOS 5 7
Marcus, FEAVER 1 7
James, BASHFORD 0 7
Andy, RICHARDS 0 7
Luke, CREASEY 0 7
Raelene, KILKENNY 4** 7
Charmian, GAUD 4* 7
Susan, FOSTER 2* 7
James, INGEMANN 4* 7
Rebecca, CONNELL 5* 7
Richard, PARKER 5** 7
Elizabeth, POMMER 1 7
Lydia, SENIOR 3** 7
Paul, HAMER 4** 7
Shorsh, AHMAD 1 7
Chris, CURTIS 3 7
Henk, VAN LEEUWEN 1 7
B. CORRESPONDENCE REPORT
Received From Subject Date Received Action
Pat, COOK (Minister Hutchins) LG Act Review 22.09.15 Tabled for discussion Discussion Paper
Ismene THIVEOS LG Act Review 15.02.15 Referred to the committee
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Received From Subject Date Received Action
Chris, CURTIS Submissions 25.01.16 Referred to the committee
Robert BOZINOVSKI Rate Capping 25.02.16 Tabled for discussion
Minister Wynne Plan Melbourne 25.11.16 Tabled for discussion Revisited
Rae, KILKENNY Housing 12.08.15 Referred on to the relevant Minister.
C. POLICY DEVELOPMENT REPORT
1. POLICY DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH
People & organisations the Policy Committee or Sub-committees have met with.
Organisation Person Topics Discussed Date
N/A
2. POLICY FORUMS - held & proposed
Policy Committees are expected to conduct three Policy Forums - one in the metropolitan area, one in the outer suburbs and one in regional Victoria, as part of the policy development process.
Date / Location Key Topics Guest Speakers No. of Anticipated Attendees Date
Proposed 2 CBD Affordable Housing Jun 2016
Proposed Plan Melbourne Refresh TBC
Proposed Future Role & TBC Responsibilities of Local Government
D. ANY OTHER ITEMS
The Urban Affairs, Housing, Local Government and Infrastructure Policy Committee, in July 2015, established two Working Groups to review/formulate socially equitable and just policy. The Working Groups are:
7.Local Government and Housing 8.Urban Affairs and Planning In conjunction with our Comrades in the Union movement and Ministers, the Committee has identified several key issues for the development of policy.
Discussions are currently being held with the Minister for Housing and Ageing; Minister for Mental Health; Minister for Equality; Minister for Creative Industries to hold a forum on “Affordable Housing”.
President: Terry Larkins Secretary: Xiaoli Ma
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REPORT OF THE Women’s POLICY COMMITTEE
April 2016
A. MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORT
K. ELECTED POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Member Attendance Total Possible
Jenny Stramilos 4 6 Maree Overrall 5 6 Tamika Hicks 4 6 Pamela Vroland 4 6 Lorie Werner 5 6 Xioali Ma 5 6 Stephanie Kilpatrick 3 5 based on leave Ashlea Gilmore 2 (lapsed) 6 Shannon Threlfall-Clarke 2 (lapsed) 6 Sarah Spivak 1 (lapsed) 6 Kim Travers 6 6 Lydia Senior 5 6 Helen Constas 3 5 based on leave Sarah Christie 4 6 Merri Blair 0 (resigned) 6 Lisa Ohlmus 0 (resigned) 6 Sinead Colee 0 (lapsed) 6 Stephanie Morgan 2 (lapsed) 6
MINISTER, PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES & CAUCUS REPRESENTATIVES
Minister/Parliamentary Secretary/Caucus Attendance Total Possible Representatives Sharon Knight - Sonya Kilkenny - Natalie Suleyman - Mary-Ann Thomas - Fiona Richardson -
ASSOCIATE POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Name Attendance Total Possible Nessie Sayer Sarah Xia Amy Jenkins Charlotte Watson
B. CORRESPONDENCE REPORT Received From Subject Date Action Received State Secretary AA rules November 2015 Circulated to committee
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C. POLICY DEVELOPMENT REPORT
1. POLICY DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH People & organisations the Policy Committee or Sub-committees have met with.
Organisation Person Topics Discussed Date Domestic Violence Fiona McCormack Domestic violence, victim January 2016 Victoria support, relationships between government and non-government orgs Caucus MP’s Sonya Kilkenny MP, Purpose of the committee, October2015 Natalie Suleyman MP forums to be held, AA focus areas of policy
2. POLICY FORUMS - held & proposed
Policy Committees are expected to conduct three Policy Forums - one in the metropolitan area, one in the outer suburbs and one in regional Victoria, as part of the policy development process.
Date / Location Key Topics Guest Speakers No. of Anticipate Attendees d Date October 2015 Geelong Trades Women’s health and access Emily Lee-Ack, Libby 20 Hall to health services Coker November Mildura Town Hall Domestic violence LisaMaree-Stephens, 2015 Danielle Green MP August 2016 Trades Hall Victoria Domestic Violence, Equal TBC Aiming for 50 Pay, Superannuation D. ANY OTHER ITEMS
Membership:
9.Our president elected at the beginning of the term, resigned from that position, and following a motion, moved unanimously Tamika Hicks was elected new President of women’s policy committee. 10.A few memberships lapsed over the course of the committee so far, these are now in the process of being replaced at state conference. 11.Please find attached our previous President’s report from 2015.
Summary of Women’s Affairs Policy Committee Activities for 2015
(v) Held policy forum in Corangamite – November 29 (vi) Held policy forum in Mildura – December 3 (vii) Attended ALP Vic Policy Coordination meeting – November 29 (viii) Attended Family Violence Forum in Carrum – September 22 (ix) Met with Minister Richardson and staff – November 10 (x) Met with Fiona McCormack, DV Vic CEO – November 23
Future Meeting guests
Fiona McCormack
Stephanie Armstrong, Weenthunga Health Network, Health & Education Consultant and Lin Oke Executive Officer
Book 2 – April State Conference 2016 64
Vic Women’s Conference
Suggest doing later in year – August? – to avoid clash with VTHC women’s conference in late May
Corangamite Women’s Policy Committee Forum Held: 29th November Location: Geelong Trades Hall, 127 Myers Street, Geelong Time: 10am Guest speakers: Libby Coker, Labor candidate for Corangamite, Emily Lee-Ack, Executive Women’s Health and Wellbeing Officer, Chris Couzens state MP, Geelong Attendees: Deb Haygarth, Carolyn Pimentel, Lyn Anderson, Nessie Sayer, Joan Creati, Jenny Stramilos, Christine Forster, Samantha Clifton, Lorie Werner, Kim Travers, Maree Overrall, Tamika Hicks
Chris Couzens opened the meeting and gave an acknowledgment of country. Libby Coker spoke from a regional perspective, and prioritizing accessibility to medical services for women. Emily Lee-Ack spoke to the importance of women’s services and support centres in regional victoria.
General discussion ensued and attendees raised concerns about workplace discrimination for not just women, but women whom are disabled, are people of colour, aboriginal and torres strait islander. Intersectionality plays a role in discrimination. Ageism is also a factor for unemployment and discrimination when applying for a job. Maternity leave was also mentioned as a barrier in the workplace.
Services applying to women’s health being cut in funding and then also/or being merged together disadvantages the service and also the customer as the customer has no choice but to use the one service. This can be detrimental to regional women as it limits whom they speak to regarding their condition.
Accessibility is the biggest issue, dealing with kids, transport, income, education, employment and then trying to get to a clinic taking into all these factors can be incredibly difficult.
President: Tamika Hicks Secretary: Jenny Stramilos
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