earth wind fire water air DEPARTMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY AND ENVIRONMENT ANNUAL REPORT 2003 earth In August 2002, the Victorian Government announced an assistance package to buy back sawlog licences from timber mill owners – it was highly successful, resulting in the surrender of 40 licences.
In October 2002, Melbourne 2030: planning for sustainable growth was launched as a long-term land use and transport strategy to manage growth and change across the metropolitan region. wind In October 2002, new wind farm guidelines were announced to help manage the continued expansion of wind farms across Victoria while protecting sensitive environments.
In April 2003, Australia’s largest wind energy project located in Portland was approved, involving 120 turbines at Yambuk, Cape Sir William Grant, Cape Nelson and Cape Bridgewater. fire In February 2003, the Victorian Government donated $1 million to the new Bushfire Recovery Appeal Fund to help individuals and communities recover from a devastating fire season.
On 7 March 2003, the worst fire season in over 60 years was declared contained. Many agencies were involved in the fire fighting effort, including the Department of Sustainability and Environment, the Department of Primary Industries, Parks Victoria and the Country Fire Authority. water In August 2002 an historic event occurred when the first environmental flows were released back to the Snowy River following the closure of part of the Mowamba Aqueduct.
In 2003, the government established the $320 million Victorian Water Trust to provide a secure source of funding for much-needed investment in the state’s vital water resources. air In April 2003, the Victorian Government announced $2 million in grants to help communities build partnerships that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
In June 2003, stronger planning guidelines were put in place to protect Melbourne’s 12 green wedges – known as the city's lungs – from inappropriate development.
Contents
Secretary’s foreword 2 Report of operations 19 Organisational performance 75 Who we are 4 Catchment and Water 20 Corporate governance 76 What we do 4 Catchment and water resource allocation and access 21 Ministerial support 78 Our clients and stakeholders 6 Catchment information services 24 Business cycle 78 Our leaders 6 Community land and water management 26 Information, communication and knowledge 78 Our structure 9 Conservation, Recreation and Public Land 30 Service delivery 81 Our vision, objectives and values 10 Biodiversity conservation, use and Environmental performance 82 Highlights 12 ecosystem services 31 Social performance 84 Year at a glance 13 Nature and heritage recreation and tourism services 34 People performance 86 Triple bottom line summary 16 Public land management 36 Financial report 91 Services for management and governance Appendixes 149 of Victoria’s parks 38 Glossary 172 Forest and Fire Management 40 Publications 173 Fire operations 44 Major locations and contact information 174 Fire prevention and planning 46 Compliance index 176 Sustainable forest management services 48 Alphabetical index 178 Sustainable forest production and industry development 50 Land Information 52 Sustainability Policy and Programs 56 Greenhouse policy services 57 Metropolitan development strategies 60 Regional and rural strategies 62 Sustainable Cities and Regions 64 Environmental strategies and initiatives 65 Heritage conservation 67 Planning operations and environmental assessment 68 Planning system development 70 Regional and urban amenity initiatives 72
1 27 October 2003 The year 2002–03 brought change and challenge to the sustainability and environment portfolio. In December John Thwaites MLA 2002, machinery of government changes established the Minister for Environment and Minister for Water Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE), bringing together key functions of the former Department Mary Delahunty MLA of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE) and the Minister for Planning Department of Infrastructure (DOI).
A new organisation 8 Nicholson Street East Melbourne 3002 The new department was created to bring under one umbrella the state’s responsibilities for sustainability of the physical environment, natural and built. The Dear Ministers department is charged with positioning Victoria as Annual Report 2002–03 a world leader in sustainability, where our social and economic needs are met in a way that allows It is my pleasure to submit to you for presentation environmental and ecosystem processes to continue, to the Victorian Parliament the Annual Report of undiminished. The planning and building systems will the Department of Sustainability and Environment be critical to delivering more sustainable development for the year ended 30 June 2003. This report has and land use. been prepared in accordance with the Financial The department’s primary functions include nature and Management Act 1994. biodiversity conservation; efficient water management; public land stewardship across forests, coasts, alpine resorts, Crown land reserves and parks; the promotion Yours sincerely of sustainable resource use and management practices among industries and the general community; and the promotion of sustainable urban and regional development.
Fighting wildfire Professor Lyndsay Neilson Throughout summer DSE, with other organisations, Secretary concentrated on fire fighting activities to minimise loss Department of Sustainability and Environment and damage to public and private land and property from wildfire. These fires were the most severe experienced in Victoria since 1939. Tragically, fire fighter Cheryl Barber- Fankhauser drowned on 26 February 2003 when a flash flood swept her 4WD into a creek near Beveridge Station in the Upper Buckland Valley. Everyone in DSE was
2 Secretary’s foreword
affected by Cheryl’s accidental death, and we continue in our native forests as well as to ensure the timber A sustainability framework will be developed to determine to offer our condolences to her friends and family. industry has a sustainable future. where government efforts will deliver the greatest returns. In particular, sustainability initiatives will foster energy I am proud of the dedication and commitment displayed • progressing the Land Exchange, which will allow key efficiency and alternative energy sources in Victoria’s by DSE’s staff to our work, and of everyone’s ongoing land transactions to be completed online. It will provide homes, education and community facilities and within enthusiasm for addressing the challenges of the new a single point of access to state and local government government. These initiatives will increase the use of department. One of the privileges of working in DSE land information and transactions through a alternative energy, reduce the level of greenhouse gas is the opportunity to work closely with people who are comprehensive commercial online system. emissions and reduce energy costs to consumers. passionate about their jobs and about our environment. • release of the metropolitan strategy, Melbourne 2030: During the fire season, people across DSE and related planning for sustainable growth, including six We will work with local government to implement portfolio agencies took on responsibilities over and implementation plans for public consultation. The Melbourne 2030, and we will advance the Transit Cities above their usual workloads to help with the fire fighting Transit Cities program was expanded to include program. The department will deliver efficient land use response and recovery priorities. The summer season 13 centres with the aim of unlocking development and built environment practices through the planning was demanding and at times stressful, and I acknowledge potential and facilitating investment into these areas. and building systems. the professional way in which everyone contributed. These programs deliver on the government’s plan to manage growth sustainably, protect the suburbs and We will continue to focus our resources on managing Delivering results environmental values of Melbourne. the risks of fire on public land, through fuel reduction burning, access road development and maintenance, putting in place new structural arrangements to enable The department, including its predecessor, delivered • clearing where appropriate, investment in new DSE to function, with the new Department of Primary many major accomplishments in 2002–03. These include: infrastructure and equipment, and training. We benefited Industries (DPI) as a key DSE partner. • effective management of the largest fires on public last season from the contribution of fire fighters from land since 1939, involving almost two months of A positive outlook America, and we will continue our international exchanges continuous fire fighting. in fire management as needs arise. The department aims to continue this good work into • establishment of the Victorian Water Trust Advisory the future, with a number of exciting challenges ahead. I hope readers take the time to read this annual report, Council, chaired by eminent Australian Professor The wise use of water is a key focus for the coming year, particularly the report of operations, which describes in Peter Cullen. as well as building a sustainability platform for some detail the activities and programs carried out during • development of new policies for water management government and the community. The Victorian Water the past financial year. I look forward to continuing to lead in Victoria. Trust, established during the year through the passing the department’s work, together with our Ministers, staff, • the creation of thirteen marine national parks and of the Water (Victorian Water Trust Advisory Council) Act stakeholders and customers, to achieve a sustainable eleven marine sanctuaries, located from Discovery Bay, 2003, is central to DSE’s objective to establish a new future for urban, regional and rural communities and west of Portland, to Cape Howe in Victoria’s far east. approach to managing scarce water resources. The Trust industries across Victoria. • implementation, with the Industry Transition Taskforce, will oversee initiatives to reduce the level of water of the Voluntary Licence Reduction Program in consumed by Victorians. These initiatives include urban Victoria’s forests, which bought back sawlog licences and rural water conservation measures, major capital from timber mill owners, resulting in the surrender works in Victoria’s water re-use, irrigation and sewerage of 40 licences and more than 260,000 cubic metres systems, and an extension of programs to protect and Lyndsay Neilson of timber. The program will help to reduce logging improve the health of our rivers and waterways. Secretary
3 DSE was created on 5 December 2002. It brings into one organisation all of the state’s responsibilities for What we do managing Victoria’s natural and built environments, DSE will help deliver the government’s vision of and provides a strong policy focus on sustainable positioning Victoria as a world leader in sustainability. development. The department advises and supports With some 50 key portfolio agencies, the department the Minister for Environment and Minister for Water, leads the state’s effort to use limited natural resources John Thwaites, and the Minister for Planning, Mary in a sustainable manner and to improve productivity: Delahunty. The Parliamentary Secretary for the doing more with less. DSE is also addressing the Environment is Elaine Carbines MP. sustainability of the ecological systems of the state. The department takes in the water, forestry, greenhouse, The department seeks to integrate its functions in land and environmental protection functions of the order to bring the regulatory skills and instruments former NRE, and the heritage, building, strategic and of the planning and building systems to bear on the statutory planning functions previously with DOI. issue of sustainable development and land use. A number of functions of the former NRE now sit DSE focuses on sustainability as a key driver in its own with different departments. Aboriginal affairs is the activities. This is a critical condition if the department responsibility of the new Department for Victorian is to influence the actions of other government agencies, Communities (DVC), while agriculture, fisheries, business, other levels of government, Victorian and minerals and petroleum reside with DPI. Energy communities, households and individuals. has moved across to DOI. The department aims to achieve: The report of operations detailed in this publication covers the 12 months to June 2003 for each of the • leadership in environmental sustainability areas of responsibility now with DSE. To meet statutory • an effective greenhouse response obligations, the financial report will cover each of the • water for the future former NRE responsibilities for the period 30 June– • improved stewardship of public and private land 31 December 2002, as well as the new department’s • sustainable communities responsibilities for the period 1 January–30 June 2003. • service and organisational excellence. For detailed output information covering any function of the former NRE no longer the responsibility of DSE, please refer to the DPI annual report for agriculture, fisheries, and minerals and petroleum, the DVC annual report for Aboriginal affairs and the DOI annual report for energy. DSE employs about 2700 staff, working from a variety of locations in and around 90 cities and towns across the state (see map on page 175). DSE had total assets of $3,483,570,000 at 30 June 2003. It has annual funding of about $1 billion that covers a range of responsibilities, including catchment management; conservation, recreation and public land stewardship; water sector development; forests and fire management; sustainability policy and programs; sustainable cities and regions; biodiversity; heritage; parks and Crown land; land information; and greenhouse and sustainable energy policy.
4 Who we are
related report Department for Victorian Communities Annual Report Report of operations – will report on the 2002–03 DVC outputs, including activities during the first six months of the financial Financial report – will year for the Indigenous not report on the first affairs output of the six months of outputs former NRE from the former NRE
Department of Sustainability and related report Department of Primary Industries Environment Annual Report Annual Report Report of operations – will report on the 2002–03 DPI outputs, including activities during the first six months of the financial Report of operations – year for the fisheries, Financial report – will will report on the 2002–03 minerals and petroleum, not report on the first DSE outputs, including and agriculture outputs of six months of outputs activities during the first the former NRE from the former NRE six months of the financial Financial report – year for the outputs DSE is the successor to NRE, previously part of DOI so it will report on the final related report Department of Infrastructure and the former NRE that six months of NRE, and the Annual Report were transferred to DSE first six months of DSE
Financial report – will Report of operations – not report on the first to cover the energy output six months of outputs of the former NRE from the former NRE
Machinery of government changes 5 Our clients and stakeholders Our leaders
The department’s clients and stakeholders are diverse and are distributed across the state. The close working relationships developed with communities give DSE a strong appreciation of the issues in rural and regional Victoria. Services are delivered in partnership with stakeholders, who include: • local, state, territory and Commonwealth governments, agencies and authorities • land and water managers, planners, developers and information users • Victoria’s forest and timber industries Professor Lyndsay Neilson John Collins Secretary Deputy Secretary, Strategic Planning and Sustainability • food and agricultural industries Policy • Aboriginal communities and organisations Professor Lyndsay Neilson leads DSE in providing a strong policy focus on sustainability as a key objective John was appointed as Deputy Secretary, Strategic • building industry and real-estate organisations of government. The Secretary is responsible for providing Planning and Sustainability Policy in May 2003. This group commercial and recreational fishing and aquaculture • policy advice to the Ministers for Water, Environment is responsible for leading and developing broad-based sectors and Planning on all matters within the sustainability strategies to achieve sustainable outcomes for Victoria. • environmental, tourism, sport and recreation groups and environment portfolio. He is the leader of the It implements strategies through funding programs, • surveying and planning organisations department’s Executive Team, and also provides policy developing agreements with other agencies, catchment • community and special-interest groups guidance for the statutory authorities associated with management authorities and local government, and by • the scientific and academic community the department and the portfolio Ministers. directly managing key urban design and development • local, national and international business organisations The Secretary has extensive experience in Australia programs. In addition to its specific operational responsibilities, the group has a role in facilitating • media organisations and communication carriers and internationally in urban research, planning and interdepartmental and inter-agency cooperation in • trade organisations management consultancy, public policy development and public administration. strategic planning and maintains close links with a range • the transport industry of agencies including the Sustainable Energy Authority During 2000–02, Professor Neilson was the Secretary • all Victorian gas, electricity and water users of Victoria. of the Department of Infrastructure, Victoria. He was • financial institutions previously Director of the Centre for Developing Cities John has more than 20 years of experience in senior policy • key employer associations and unions at the University of Canberra, where he established the and management positions with state and Commonwealth • future generations. Centre’s Urban Management Program, and retains the government agencies, working in urban planning, transport, Our service delivery partners include the Environment honorary position of Adjunct Professor of Urban Planning. public utilities and with central agencies. John also spent Protection Authority Victoria, the Sustainable Energy Professor Neilson was Deputy Secretary of the Australian 10 years as a management consultant specialising in Authority of Victoria, EcoRecycle Victoria, the Building Department of Housing and Regional Development, and strategic planning, evaluation and organisational Commission, Heritage Victoria, Parks Victoria, Chief Executive of the National Capital Planning Authority. development projects for public sector agencies. He was responsible for the Australian Government’s catchment management authorities, water authorities John is a graduate of the Australian National University. and local government. ‘Better Cities’ program. The Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability Professor Neilson holds a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) from and the Victorian Water Trust Advisory Council are the University of Melbourne, is a Fellow of the Planning Institute of Australia, a Fellow of the Institute of Public new offices that will be linked to DSE. Administration of Australia, and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
6 Kevin Love Sue Jaquinot Peter Sutherland Deputy Secretary, Public Land Stewardship and Deputy Secretary, Resources and Regional Services General Manager, Intergovernmental and International Biodiversity Sue was appointed Deputy Secretary, Resources and Peter was appointed General Manager, Intergovernmental Kevin was appointed to the role of Deputy Secretary, Regional Services in December 2002. Sue has and International in May 2003. His responsibilities include Public Land Stewardship and Biodiversity in May 2003. responsibility for leading organisational development and liaising with the Commonwealth on funding and grants Kevin is responsible for ensuring that all public land change processes and for providing a range of corporate programs, establishing the office of the Commissioner management and resource utilisation is consistent with support functions, including finance, corporate services for Environmental Sustainability, and developing an sustainability policy and represents best practice in and the department’s regional services delivery. Functions Environmental Monitoring and Information System. Peter environmental management. of the Resources and Regional Services group include liaises with state and federal governments on national communications and stakeholder relations, information and bilateral policy initiatives, and is also responsible The Public Land Stewardship and Biodiversity group technology, finance and administration, corporate for coordinating international activities to ensure that brings together the development of policies for the use governance, corporate planning and policy coordination, Victoria is developing a strong, influential profile in of natural resources on public land; for fire and other legislation and cabinet support, facilities management environmental sustainability. emergency management issues on public land; and for and capital programs, human resources management, the integration of legislative and regulatory arrangements, Peter has over 25 years of experience in natural resource and delivery of services across regional Victoria. institutional arrangements and service delivery management and environmental policy. He was previously arrangements across the public land spectrum. The group Prior to her current role, Sue was Executive Director, Deputy Secretary, Catchment and Water with the former also covers programs for the protection of biodiversity on Organisational Development with DOI, Group Manager, NRE. Peter has held senior roles with EPA Victoria, public and private land and ensures that there is effective Human Resources with the Department of Planning and the Department of Water Resources and the Department research to support evidenced-based policy development Development, and Group Manager, Human Resources, of Agriculture. and adaptive management of biodiversity across the state. with the Ministry for Housing and Construction. Peter is a Deputy Commissioner with the Murray–Darling Kevin was previously Deputy Secretary, Public Land, Sue has more than 25 years of experience in the public Basin Commission, a member of the National Land and Heritage and Biodiversity with the former NRE. Before sector, particularly in human resources, where key areas Water Audit Advisory Council and Chair of the National that he was Director, Resources and Infrastructure with of her involvement were developing and implementing Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality Steering the Department of Premier and Cabinet. Kevin worked government pay and people management policies, and Committee in Victoria. for 20 years in country Victoria for the Department leading major organisational change projects and processes. Peter holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science of Agriculture. Sue holds a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) and is a Fellow (Hons). Kevin holds a Bachelor of Agricultural Science, and a of the Institute of Public Administration, Victoria. Masters of Agricultural Science.
7 Adrian Spall Greg Wilson Paul Jerome Acting General Manager, Catchment and Water Services General Manager, Water Sector Development General Manager, Planning, Land Services and Adrian was appointed acting General Manager, Catchment Greg was appointed as General Manager, Water Sector Environmental Regulation and Water Services in May 2003. Adrian is responsible Development in May 2003. Greg has wide-ranging Paul was appointed as General Manager, Planning, Land for achieving healthy rivers and catchments by creating experience in advising governments and corporations Services and Environmental Regulation in May 2003. strong partnerships with communities, statutory on industry, pricing and regulatory reform, stakeholder Paul’s key responsibilities in DSE include leading authorities and government. He manages Victoria’s water relations and strategic business issues. With a focus on development regulation and statutory planning; providing resource allocation framework and advises the State the utility industry and public sector, Greg specialises land title, valuation and survey advice; developing and Government on the performance of the water sector. in issues relating to water, energy, urban development managing Victoria’s fundamental spatial information data Adrian oversees 10 catchment management authorities, and the environment. He has managed major price/access and policy; and delivering the Land Exchange Program, a the Port Phillip and Western Port catchment and land reviews, developed pricing reform and regulatory comprehensive online environment where Victorians can protection boards and 25 water authorities. strategies and has been responsible for the provision exchange land information and undertake transactions. of ongoing high-level economic advice regarding industry Adrian is responsible for initiatives to improve the reform, competition and regulatory issues. Paul was previously Executive Director, Planning, Heritage performance of the Victorian water industry, particularly and Building with DOI. Prior to that, he was Director of in the areas of corporate governance, corporate planning Examples include managing the 2003 Gas Access City Development with the City of Yarra. Paul has been and business performance, and he plays a key role in Arrangements Review and the 2001 Electricity Distribution a panel member of Planning Panels Victoria and a member developing and delivering on the government’s ‘Water Price Review for the Essential Services Commission; of the Local Government Board during local government for the Future’ reform agenda. assisting with the development of large-scale metropolitan amalgamations. He was seconded to the Melbourne City water and sewerage pricing reforms for the Department While with the former NRE, Adrian developed Land Link Authority for six months and also worked for six of Treasury and Finance; and issues-management Victoria’s strategic framework, which focused on months on an AusAid project in Hanoi, Vietnam. surrounding implementation of the 1994–95 Melbourne delivering land information and transactions online water industry structural reforms. Paul holds a Bachelor of Arts, a postgraduate Diploma in and overseeing the accompanying structural reforms. Town and Regional Planning, and a Masters in Social Policy. Prior to this, at Austel, Adrian managed a $26 million Greg holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a postgraduate public education campaign to publicise the reform Diploma in Economics. and reorganisation of Australia’s national telephone numbering system to an 8-digit numbering scheme. Adrian holds a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) and a Master of Business Administration.
8 Our structure
John Thwaites MLA Mary Delahunty MLA Minister for Environment Minister for Planning Minister for Water
Elaine Carbines MLC Professor Lyndsay Neilson Parliamentary Secretary Secretary for the Environment
John Collins Kevin Love Sue Jaquinot Deputy Secretary Deputy Secretary Deputy Secretary Strategic Planning & Public Land Stewardship Resources & Regional Sustainability Policy & Biodiversity Services
Metropolitan Development Crown Land Regional Services Development Facilitation Biodiversity and Natural Chief Finance Officer Sustainable Regions Resources Communications and Sustainability Strategy Greg Wilson Adrian Spall Parks and Forests Paul Jerome Peter Sutherland Stakeholder Relations Statutory authorities: General Manager General Manager (Acting) Conservation and Recreation General Manager General Manager Information Technology Sustainable Energy Water Sector Catchment & Water Services Statutory authorities: Planning, Land Services & Inter-governmental Governance, Legislation Authority of Victoria Development Parks Victoria Environmental Regulation & International and Executive Services Catchment and Water Zoo and Royal Botanic Corporate Planning Victorian Water Trust Governance Gardens boards Land Victoria Intergovernmental and and Projects Water Projects Water Resources Alpine Resorts Coordinating Heritage Victoria International Strategy Human Resources Water Policy Management Council Regulatory Review National Action Plan for Ministerial Services Living Murray Regulatory Policy Victorian Coastal Council Statutory Planning Salinity and Water Quality Snowy River Land Management Victorian Environmental Statutory authorities: Natural Heritage Trust Statutory authorities: Assessment Council EPA Victoria Environmental Monitoring Catchment management Building Commission and Information Strategy authorities and related authorities Water authorities Heritage Council Plumbing Industry Commission
DSE comprises seven functional groups responsible for managing Victoria’s natural and built environments
9 VICTORIANS LIVING SUSTAINABLY Our vision
Victorians living sustainably DSE is committed to a future in which all Victorians are living sustainably within their natural and built environments. Our objectives
To deliver on the government’s policy commitments, DSE has identified six objectives that set the focus and direction for the organisation over the next three years
Leadership in environmental sustainability Establish Victoria as a leader in environmental sustainability debate and practice, making full use of the capabilities of government and strategic partnerships. An effective greenhouse response Contribute effectively to national and international efforts to address the challenges of climate change. Water for the future Develop innovative water management initiatives, including water conservation and water recycling, to meet the needs of the environment and the Victorian community. Improved stewardship of public and private land Improve the management and use of public and private land to enhance, protect and restore biodiversity assets and ecosystem services. Sustainable communities Contribute to the development of sustainable communities across Victoria, including the achievement of more sustainable urban environments. Service and organisational excellence Provide Victorians with high quality access to the comprehensive range of information and services available across the department. Our values
At DSE we value:
Commitment We are committed to making a substantial contribution to the whole of Victoria, by providing excellent service and authoritative advice that meets the needs of current and future generations. Collaboration We will collaborate with our colleagues within the department and other agencies and work closely with our stakeholders to achieve richer results and outcomes. Accountability We take responsibility for using community resources wisely, delivering on commitments, and conducting our activities with the highest standards of integrity and ethics. Innovation We will influence and advance industry and the wider community by adopting innovative solutions and leading best practice in the sustainable use of Victoria’s resources. Flexibility We are responsive, adapting to change with ease.
11 Highlights
First quarter Fourth quarter • An historic event occurred when the first environmental • Wind farm guidelines were incorporated into all planning • Australia’s largest wind energy project, located in flows were released back to the Snowy River. The schemes to help manage the continued expansion of Portland, was approved, involving 120 turbines at Mowamba Aqueduct between Jindabyne and Dalgety wind farms while protecting sensitive environments. Yambuk, Cape Sir William Grant, Cape Nelson and was closed, returning 38 gigalitres a year for the next • Victoria established 13 marine national parks and Cape Bridgewater. three years to ensure no further deterioration of the 11 marine sanctuaries, covering some 54,000 hectares • The Community Action Fund, an initiative of the Victorian once-mighty river. of Victoria’s marine waters. Greenhouse Strategy, announced $2 million in grants over • Works were finished at Ivanhoe, a Melbourne suburb, • Funding under the $4 million Public Heritage Program two years to help communities build partnerships that on an alternative roosting site for grey-headed flying was announced for the urgent repair and restoration will reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Its first round foxes and a captive colony of about 80 animals was of important historic places. More than $3 million in awarded $900,000 to 24 successful projects. introduced. A program to relocate animals from the capital works grants was awarded to 57 heritage places • Stronger planning guidelines were put in place Royal Botanic Gardens was performed from March around Victoria. to protect Melbourne’s 12 green wedges from to June 2003. • The new Department of Sustainability and Environment inappropriate development. • The government announced an assistance package was formed to bring into one organisation all of the • Advertisements reminded farmers of the need to register to buy back sawlog licences from timber mill owners. state’s responsibilities for managing the natural and their existing dams by 30 June, as part of significant It was highly successful, resulting in the surrender built environments. work undertaken during the year to implement the of 40 licences. Water (Irrigation Farm Dams) Act 2002 which aims • The $500 million Basslink energy initiative was Third quarter to ensure that water use across Victoria is sustainable. approved to allow the trade of electricity between • In June 2003, the Victorian Water Trust Advisory • The Bushfire Recovery Appeal Fund was launched Tasmania and the mainland, and to allow Tasmania Council was established with the passing of the Water to collect and distribute aid for bushfire relief. The to enter the national electricity market. (Victorian Water Trust Advisory Council) Act 2003. government made the first donation of $1 million to help individuals and communities recover from Second quarter a devastating fire season. • Legislation was developed to create 11 new or expanded • The Royal Exhibition Building was nominated for national, state and national-heritage parks, and seven world heritage listing. The nomination was achieved new conservation reserves in the Box-Ironbark region, in partnership with the Commonwealth’s Environment significantly enhancing our parks system. Australia and Museum Victoria. • Melbourne 2030: planning for sustainable growth • The worst fires in 60 years were declared contained on was launched as a long-term land use and transport March 7, after nearly 1 million hectares of public land strategy to manage growth and change across the was burned. Many agencies were involved in the fire metropolitan region. fighting effort, including DSE, DPI, Parks Victoria, the Country Fire Authority, the Commonwealth Bureau of Meteorology, local municipalities, the Salvation Army, the Red Cross, Rural Ambulance Victoria, St John Ambulance, the State Emergency Service and Victoria Police.
12 Year at a glance
Main outcomes 2002–03 Conservation, Recreation and Public Land Catchment and Water Enhances the environmental, conservation and recreational values of Victoria’s resources on public Is responsible for creating strong partnerships with and private land and in marine and freshwater areas. communities, statutory authorities and government to achieve healthy rivers and catchments. • Legislation was developed to create 11 new or expanded national, state and national-heritage parks • The first environmental flows were released back in the Box-Ironbark region of Victoria (page 38). to the Snowy River (page 21). • Victoria established 13 marine national parks and • The Essential Services Commission was appointed 11 marine sanctuaries (page 38). as the economic regulator of the Victorian water • The first status report covering tasks agreed in the industry (page 21). Port Phillip Bay Environmental Management Plan • Significant work was carried out to implement the was published (page 31). Water (Irrigation Farm Dams) Act 2002 (page 21). • A trial of a national approach to managing the risks • The Victorian Water Trust Advisory Council was from ship ballast water concluded (page 31). established through the passing of the Water (Victorian • Draft action statements were prepared for approval Water Trust Advisory Council) Act 2003 (page 21). of 39 threatened plant and animal species under • The Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (page 31). became the first regional body in Australia to have its • Draft management plans for managing threats Regional Catchment Strategy accredited by the Victorian to freshwater biodiversity at Barmah, Kerang and and Commonwealth governments (page 24). Gunbower Forest were released for public comment • The Victorian River Health Strategy was launched. (page 31). It outlines the government’s long-term direction for • Final plans for five Ramsar wetlands sites were the management of Victoria’s rivers (page 26). approved (page 31). • The government committed $12.8 million over four • Works were completed at Ivanhoe on an alternative years to improve water quality in the Gippsland Lakes roosting site for grey-headed flying foxes (page 32). (page 27). • Eighty public submissions were reviewed as part Werribee Plains – a vision for sustainable growth was • of the Alpine Resorts 2020 Draft Strategy (page 34). released with the bold aim to transform Melbourne’s The alpine resorts leasing policy and guidelines west into a renowned green region (page 27). • were finalised (page 36).
13 Forest and Fire Management Land Information Is responsible for the sustainable management of Promotes sustainable economic growth and community 3.5 million hectares of state forest for a range of confidence through land administration and management productive, conservation and recreation uses. Manages systems for Crown and freehold land. fire on 8 million hectares of public land to protect • Registration services were provided for more than human life and property and to sustain biodiversity. 846,000 land title dealing lodgements (page 53). • Eight hundred and fifty-seven fires, including eight in • Title searches were increased by 27 per cent to a total NSW were attended during the worst fire season in over of $1.4 million (page 53). 60 years (page 44). • Thirty-five per cent of the state’s Crown land records • A total of 2600 trained and accredited fire personnel were captured online (page 53). were enlisted in readiness for the 2002–03 fire season • Certification of the 2002 revaluation was completed, (page 44). significantly improving on the previous revaluation • Major reviews of fire protection plans were carried process (page 53). out to the final draft stage (page 46). • Funding of $24 million was provided for the next three • A total of 48 fire fighters were supplied to the USA over years to develop a Land Exchange, allowing key land five weeks in August and September 2002 (page 46). transactions to occur online (page 54). • The department provided 104 fire management personnel to help NSW fight eight fires in August 2002 (page 46). • The Big Desert wildfires were fought and roads and fire control lines were restored (page 48). • The Gippsland and Mildura forest management plans were completed and those for Portland, Horsham and Bendigo were begun (page 48). • A trial of community forestry in the Wombat State Forest was established (page 48). • The Voluntary Licence Reduction Program was launched, prompting the surrender of 40 sawlog licences (page 50). • A major forest rehabilitation program and an extensive seed collection program following the wildfires were carried out (page 50).
14 Sustainability Policy and Programs Sustainable Cities and Regions Enhances the quality of life of communities across Provides a world-class planning system that supports Victoria by delivering land-use and infrastructure sustainable development across Victoria in a way that is strategies designed to improve the economic and social fair, transparent, accountable and cost-effective and that capacity of Victoria. gives certainty to users. • The department awarded more than $900,000 in grants • The $500 million Basslink project to connect Tasmania to a total of 24 community projects that will reduce to the national electricity market was approved (page 65). greenhouse gas emissions (page 57). • The Portland wind energy project, the largest wind farm • Seven extra local councils were recruited to the Rural in Australia, was supported (page 65). Cities for Climate Protection Program (page 57). • A process was begun to reform the environmental • A regional partnership was formed with the Central assessment process (page 65). Victorian Greenhouse Alliance (page 57). • Funding was allocated to 57 heritage places around • Melbourne 2030 was launched. This is a long-term, Victoria under the government’s $4 million Public integrated land use and transport strategy to manage Heritage Program (page 67). change and growth across the metropolitan region • Stronger planning guidelines were put in place (page 60). to protect Melbourne’s 12 green wedges from • Melbourne in Fact and Regional Victoria in Fact were inappropriate development (page 68). launched. These reports show how Victoria’s population • An amendment to the City of Melbourne’s planning is changing (page 60). scheme was approved in order to achieve a balance • A study into the future access needs for the on building height controls in residential parts of Great Ocean Road Region was completed (page 62). the city (page 68).
15 The triple bottom line is a phrase coined to describe Five-year financial summary (controlled) the simultaneous pursuit of economic prosperity, 1998–99 1999–00 2000–01 2001–02 2002–03 environmental quality and social justice. DSE views $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 the reporting of triple bottom line outcomes as an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment Revenue from government 665,335 759,916 795,655 806,126 962,690 to responsible financial management, to reduced Other revenue 187,349 130,849 128,148 133,840 125,496 environmental impacts and to services for under- Total revenue 852,684 890,765 923,803 939,966 1,088,186 represented and disadvantaged Victorians. Net result from operating activities 103,476 40,302 8,080 (22,650) (66,389) Financial Net cash flow from operations 65,616 64,063 31,693 41,479 44,534 Total assets 2,794,782 3,011,848 3,023,158 3,601,882 3,483,570 For the financial year ending 30 June 2003, the department reported a deficit of $66.4 million. This figure Total liabilities 93,356 114,024 127,594 143,786 79,331 included an operating deficit of $12.5 million and asset write-downs of $53.9 million for building, plant and equipment, and Crown land. The asset write-downs were Payments for outputs made in accordance with government accounting policy. Significant machinery of government changes have affected the department and its results, therefore previous years’ results are not comparable as they include $'000 % output groups that have now been transferred to other Sustainable Cities and Regions 25,082 2.5 departments (refer to page 111 of the Financial Report). Catchment and Water 193,058 19.1 Outlook Forest and Fire Management 343,494 34.0 The government has approved additional funding of Sustainability Policy and Programs 33,540 3.3 $264 million for new initiatives to be implemented over Land Information 119,424 11.8 the next four years. These initiatives include $92.5 million Conservation, Recreation and Public Land 296,617 29.3 in water funding with a focus on incentives to encourage better use of water and an increase in environmental 1,011,215 100.0 flows; and upgrading water assets and infrastructure, including irrigation systems and country town water treatment and sewerage plants. Extra funding of $40 million will also go towards protecting Victoria’s forests 2002–03 expenses for the department’s ongoing output groups and parks, including phasing out logging in the Otway Ranges; encouraging the expansion of sawlog plantations on private land; and employment of fifty new park rangers.
16 Triple bottom line summary
Environmental Social The department aims to reduce energy, water, paper DSE delivers a range of programs to improve services use and waste production from its offices through its for under-represented and disadvantaged Victorians. Eco-Office Challenge Program. The program achieved The programs are targeted towards youth, culturally significant results during 2002–03. and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, women and Indigenous people. DSE made giant leaps in reducing the amount of waste it sends to landfill. After audits revealed most waste being Services to CALD communities are delivered through sent to landfill could be reused, recycled or composted, the Multicultural Engagement Strategy. Actions carried an innovative ‘aWay with Waste’ separation system was out under the strategy included the formation of a put in place at major offices. ‘aWay with Waste’ produced cultural diversity staff network as a shared service for outstanding results, with an average annual reduction of DSE and DPI staff, and the holding of a CALD shellfish waste to landfill of 90.3 per cent, equivalent to 70 tonnes collection workshop with Vietnamese, Cambodian, or 1.9 Olympic swimming pools. Samoan and Greek communities. An energy management audit was submitted to the Between January 2002 and April 2003, the department Sustainable Energy Authority of Victoria. The audit spent $216,404 on advertising within CALD media. investigated energy use over two years and revealed The department delivers its commitment to Indigenous that the department had reduced its energy intensity, or communities through the Indigenous Partnerships energy use per square metre, by 4.2 per cent, beating the Strategy, a shared service with DPI and DVC. During the 3 per cent target. By year-end, about 3.8 per cent of total year, more than 30 per cent of all DSE staff completed electricity use at all sites was being bought as Green Power. the Indigenous Cultural Awareness Program as part of All new building works carried out by DSE follow the strategy. environmentally sustainable design, construction and The department aims to ensure that women have a fit-out principles to minimise environmental impact. voice in natural resource management and environment Projects over the past 12 months included extra management. It is committed to a people-friendly accommodation at the Epsom office, partially constructed workplace and to improving representation of women on new premises at Bairnsdale, and the completion of new boards and committees. During the year the department modular buildings at Bendoc, Casterton and Marysville. held ‘Women in the City’ forums and conversations to articulate women’s issues during the development of Melbourne 2030. Over 200 women participated. The department aims to increase the participation of young people in environmental and natural resource management initiatives. During the year, one of the many education programs run by DSE to engage young Victorians was the Forestry Education Service. It promotes forests as a topic of study in Victoria’s schools, and delivered outreach programs to over 1100 students in east Gippsland, in north-east, central and western Victoria and in the metropolitan area.
17
DEPARTMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY AND ENVIRONMENT REPORT OF OPERATIONS
Contents Catchment and Water 20 Conservation, Recreation and Public Land 30 Forest and Fire Management 40 Land Information 52 Sustainability Policies and Programs 56 Sustainable Cities and Regions 64
19
Catchment and Water
Catchment and Water the passing by Parliament of the Murray–Darling Basin Catchment and water Agreement Amendment Bill. management requires a strong resource allocation and access Pricing water fairly partnership approach involving The government has appointed the Essential Services Objective Commission (ESC) as the economic regulator of the communities, statutory To develop resource allocation mechanisms and Victorian water industry to ensure that water prices are authorities and government legislation to guide and regulate land and water managers fair and reasonable. This comes into effect from 1 January and users, and to use innovative market-based measures 2004. The first water prices set by the ESC will take effect to achieve healthy rivers and to encourage people to adopt sustainable land and water from 1 July 2005. The Water Legislation (Essential Services management systems Commission and Other Amendments) Act 2003 was passed catchments. The objective is in autumn 2003, enshrining these arrangements in law Key achievements and allowing the government to issue statements of to protect and enhance the obligations to water authorities. environment while supporting Increasing flows to the Snowy Roll out of farm dams In August 2002, an historic event occurred when the first Significant work was undertaken to implement the Water environmental flows were released back to the Snowy sustainable and more productive (Irrigation Farm Dams) Act 2002, which came into effect River. The Mowamba Aqueduct, between Jindabyne and in April 2002 after extensive community consultation and Dalgety, was closed. This will return 38 gigalitres of water resource industries and regional support from all political parties, the Victorian Farmers to the river each year for the next three years, ensuring Federation and Environment Victoria. The new Act that there is no further deterioration of the once-mighty communities. This sector amended the Water Act 1989 and extended licensing river. To complement greater flows, other projects were arrangements to cover all commercial and irrigation use in of operations also manages started to re-establish rainforest and riverbank vegetation the catchment (see case study on page 24). Irrigation and on the lower Snowy and to research native fish commercial dams of any size built off waterways affect Victorian water resource populations and migration. the amount of water available for use in the catchment allocation and advises the Progress was made on the $25 million package of water and they reduce stream flows. The amendments will help savings projects in northern Victoria as part of the ensure that water use across Victoria is sustainable. government on the performance government’s commitment to increase flows. Construction began on the Normanville pipeline to replace the Victorian Water Trust of the water sector. inefficient open channel system, and new channel control In 2003, the government established the $320 million technology was successfully installed as part of a pilot Victorian Water Trust, which delivers on an election scheme near Tatura. commitment for long-term investment to secure The search for new water savings opportunities continued sustainable water supplies for the future. The Trust with the completion of studies of future land and water has several aims including increasing water reuse and requirements, water measurement, water accounting recycling across the state. It will provide seed investment and supply operations. Of these, several projects were for projects that deliver on the major targets of the short-listed for more evaluation. A major study of government’s Water for the Future policy. The Victorian man-made Lake Mokoan, near Benalla, continued with Water Trust Advisory Council has been established with the release of an interim report for public comment the passing of the Water (Victorian Water Trust Advisory Kevan Richards is a senior policy analyst with DSE. Over the last on potential water savings. Council) Act 2003 to provide independent advice to the few years Kevan has worked energetically towards developing the Minister for Water on funding priorities for the Trust and government’s farm dams legislation. The new laws require all existing A critical milestone was reached in May 2003 on the and new dams to be registered, and all new dams used for irrigation to attract investment in nationally significant water projects. or commercial use to be licensed. administrative arrangements for the Snowy project with 21 Legislative achievements managing implementation of the initial response to the Other legislative achievements include the passing of the independent water resource strategy for the Melbourne Catchment and Land Protection (Amendment) Act 2003, area; and facilitating government partnerships to drive which governs the management of declared weeds and sustainable urban water management. pest animals in Victoria; and the Murray–Darling Basin • Implement the Murray–Darling Basin Salinity (Amendment) Act 2003, which approves an agreement Management Strategy. between the Commonwealth, New South Wales, Victoria • Implement the Rural Land Stewardship Policy Project, and South Australia to amend the Murray–Darling Basin which aims to develop policy to guide the sustainable Agreement. The department also made a substantial planning and management of Victoria’s rural landscape. contribution to the development of the Constitution (Water • Implement the River Health Strategy, including Authorities) Act 2003, which amends the Constitution Act achieving an 18 per cent improvement in river health. 1975 to entrench the responsibility of public authorities • Implement Smart Farms, a four-year, $10 million to deliver water services; and the Safe Drinking Water Act government initiative to encourage farmers to adopt 2003, which protects and improves the quality of drinking more efficient farm water management practices. water supplies in Victoria. • Develop a statewide sustainable irrigation strategy, to move towards a 25 per cent increase in irrigation Future directions efficiency. • Improve governance arrangements for water supply • Complete the business plan and establish management and sewerage services, and for CMAs. This will involve arrangements for the Werribee Plains vision (see case implementing the Smarter Water Use in Cities and Towns study on page 27). Greater flows were released back to the Snowy River during the year project; preparing the WaterSmart Melbourne policy with • Prepare and release the government’s policies on water a target to reduce water consumption by 15 per cent and management statewide. to recycle 20 per cent of the city’s water by 2010; Performance measures Catchment and water resource allocation and access Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Volume of the state’s water resources covered by tradeable Quantity million 4.6 4.6 4.8 4.68 bulk water entitlement orders granted by the Minister megalitres River basins for which surface water allocations have Quantity number 20 18 20 17 Reflects the impact of the drought. been determined Volume of water permanently traded on water markets Quantity megalitres 27,000 29,456 20,000 28,964 The trading of water has expanded rapidly due to its scarcity. New wastewater management improvement projects Quantity number 32 15 13 7 Reflects planning delays and (new town sewerage schemes) supported appeals to VCAT. Number of water savings projects under implementation Quantity number nm 3 4 3 Reflects delay caused by community consultation process. Volume of water savings under implementation Quantity gigalitres nm 22 27 22 Reflects delay caused by community consultation process. Additional annual release of environment flow to Snowy River Quantity gigalitres nm 0 <38 <38 nm – new measure
22 Catchment and water resource allocation and access Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Water entitlements and allocations determined within agreed Quality per cent 85 85 85 85 timeframes and in accordance with national competition policy Bulk water entitlements being complied with to ensure Quality number 100 100 99 99 security of supply and environmental flows Water supply systems where environmental flows have been Quality per cent nm nm 95 95 met or improved Water supplies meeting agreed water quality standards Quality per cent 85 85 85 93 Improvements have progressed faster than anticipated. Victorian water diversions complying with Murray Darling Quality per cent nm 100 100 100 Basin Ministerial compliance cap New projects commenced incorporating water use efficiency, Quality number nm 25 25 67 Reflects approval of the Water Use and key environmental outcomes Effeciency Initiative in June 2003. Snowy Joint Government Enterprise operationalised to Timeliness date nm nm Dec 2002 Not The Joint Government Enterprise permit Victoria to make its annual funding contribution complete has been delayed as aresult of the need to resolve complex tax issues and consultation with the SA Government. Implementation of new drinking water quality framework Timeliness date nm na Jun 2003 Complete Submission of Final Water Industry Regulatory Proposals Timeliness date nm nm Sep 2002 Complete for Cabinet endorsement Transfer of responsibility for economic regulation of Timeliness date nm nm Jan 2003 Jan 2004 Legislation to permit the transfer water to Essential Services Commission of the responsibility was passed in the Autumn 2003 session, which set the transfer date as January 2004. Develop water resource strategy recommendations for Timeliness date nm nm Sep 2002 Complete Melbourne area (in cooperation with water authorities) Develop Draft Victorian Water Recycling Strategy Timeliness date nm nm Nov 2002 Complete Develop Final Victorian Water Recycling Strategy Timeliness date nm nm Jun 2003 Complete Allocate bulk water entitlement for Yarra River Basin Timeliness date nm nm Jun 2003 Not Reliant on the outcome of green complete paper on water resources. Develop financial and performance framework for rural Timeliness date nm nm Dec 2002 Complete and non-metropolitan urban water authorities Develop infrastructure policy framework for water Timeliness date nm nm Dec 2002 Not Reliant on the outcome of green authorities complete paper on water resources. Total output cost $’000 47,000 27,500 81,200 34,392 Reflects the delay in establishing the Joint Government Enterprise. nm – new measure na – not applicable
23 Regional catchment strategies in other parts of Victoria Catchment information are due to be completed by the end of 2003. All regions services are developing complementary regional investment plans. Integrated natural resource management Objective In February 2003, an expert review panel was established To promote the sustainable management of our to advise on developing a Victorian integrated natural catchments and water resources by collecting, analysing resource management (INRM) investment framework. and disseminating information useful to landholders, The long-term framework will focus on designing industries, communities and decision makers catchments and landscapes for sustainability. The panel comprised world-renowned experts Professor Mike Berry, Key achievements Dr Peter Christoff, Professor Mark Considine, Dr Steve Dovers, Dr Robyn Eckersley, Dr Sarah Ewing and Dr John Glenelg Hopkins Regional Catchment Strategy Stocker. It addressed broad issues such as the definition Registering farm dams of INRM, how INRM relates to sustainable development In April 2003, the Victorian Government joined the and whether any of INRMs elements exist in Victoria. Our water is shared using bulk entitlements that Commonwealth in accrediting the Glenelg Hopkins Panel members also gave feedback on the draft INRM provide authorities with their rights to water, licences Catchment Management Authority Regional Catchment review paper, which focuses on how such a framework that allow for individual extraction from streams and Strategy. Glenelg Hopkins was the first regional body in is being put in place elsewhere, the world’s best practice groundwater (mainly for irrigation and commercial Australia to achieve accreditation. Regional catchment and how Victoria measures up against best practice. use), and domestic and stock supplies, which provide strategies are the primary tool that Victoria’s ten for farm households and for stock watering. The framework is now closer to being finalised. catchment management authorities (CMAs) use to plan The new Water (Irrigation Farm Dams) Act 2002 for land, water and biodiversity management. Horsham regional forum helps to make water use sustainable by protecting Accreditation is a rigorous process and means that state the health of our rivers and streams and by ensuring In May 2003, a forum was held in Horsham for regional that reliability of supply is not reduced. As a result, and federal governments are willing to consider investing agencies involved in natural resource management. existing enterprises have renewed certainty because in the strategy through the $1.4 billion National Action The forum brought together groups such as catchment the security of their water supply is enhanced, and Plan for Salinity and Water Quality (NAP) and the management and water authorities, local and state new enterprises, particularly intensive horticulture $2.4 billion Natural Heritage Trust (NHT). government agencies and the Western Coastal Board. and viticulture, will be encouraged to invest in Victoria Glenelg Hopkins, located south of the Great Dividing The aim of the forum was to explore ways to improve because of the higher level of security to water. Range in south-west Victoria, received initial funding of community service delivery. All new dams used for irrigation or commerce must $2.9 million from the NAP to put in place actions set out The forum set out to build on existing relationships in be licensed, whether or not they sit on a waterway. under the strategy. These actions include measures to order to forge new partnership approaches to sustainable Use of water from springs or soaks must also be protect aquatic biodiversity such as the Glenelg spiny regional development and service delivery. There was licensed. A proper licensing regime aims to prevent crayfish and the Glenelg freshwater mussel. broad agreement to strengthen communication among over-allocation of water. The new regime will allow On-ground works identified by the strategy will protect agencies through improved communication networks, all significant water use to be accounted for. and link remnant vegetation, protect and rehabilitate and a commitment by participants to boost information All existing unlicensed commercial irrigation dams rivers and wetlands, and control pest plant and animal sharing, for example through geographic information must also be either registered or licensed. Stream infestation. They will help protect threatened birds such systems. Attendees were addressed by Minister Thwaites, flow management plans are being prepared in stressed as the brolga and the wetlands on which the birds depend, Ms Carbines and the Secretary of the Department for catchments, where the level of security is low and and will have a positive impact on nutrient management, Victorian Communities, Yehudi Blacher. farmers experience difficulty in obtaining water when regional water quality and fish health, which is vital to they need it, and where the environmental condition the fishing industry. The comprehensive blueprint for of the stream is suffering. these actions was developed in close consultation with the regional community. New farm dams legislation creates a proper licensing regime 24 Performance measures Catchment information services Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Sites monitored for water quality (see case study below) Quantity number 109 131 131 131 Number of people accessing government sponsored Quantity number 49,274 45,650 12,000 2,046,800 Reflects unanticipated level of catchment and water related web sites (see case study below) ‘hits’ on the web site. Councils adopting on-line systems to record remnant native Quantity number nm 0 5 0 Difficulties experienced in vegetation clearance permits adopting a system that can be utilised by all councils. Customised, managed datasets provided to catchment Quantity number nm 9 10 23 Call on datasets was greater than management authorities anticipated due to increased calls for factual data to complete regional catchment strategies. Catchment condition indicators available on-line with Timeliness number nm 20 20 20 current trend data Completion of on-line system to record native vegetation Timeliness date nm na Dec 2002 Not Design and development of the clearance permits complete system delayed as third parties information not provided on time. Total output cost $’000 14,300 11,100 8,500 11,958 Reflects re-allocation of resources between outputs. nm – new measure na – not applicable
Victorian Water Resources Data Warehouse from this data. Users can access 14,770 monitoring of improving water quality and quantity monitoring An important new feature was added to the popular sites, 230 measure definitions, such as flow, salinity networks throughout Gippsland. Signatories include DSE, Victorian Water Resources Data Warehouse, found and chemical analysis, and 82 million data points. EPA Victoria, Parks Victoria, Gippsland Water, Southern at www.vicwaterdata.net. The online clearing house, which Some sites even have historical data as far back Rural Water, Australian Paper, east and west Gippsland stores an extensive range of the latest information on as pre-1900. CMAs, Melbourne Water, South Gippsland Water, Bureau Victoria’s rivers, streams, lakes and water storages, has of Meteorology, East Gippsland Water, Loy Yang Power, Gippsland Water Monitoring Partnership new features that greatly improve access to data. The site Latrobe City Council, Wellington Shire Council, Hazelwood features a new interactive mapping tool that allows users Monitoring water resources to date has been very Power, Yallourn Energy and the Gippsland Coastal Board. to display every site in the data warehouse, rather than inefficient, with different agencies using different Since the partnership began, two lake and five stream only a limited number. The maps also incorporate new methods. Collecting water resource data is more effective monitoring sites have been added to the Gippsland information such as roads, towns, watercourses and using regional partnerships, where authorities contribute network and there is better cooperation and topographic detail. to a single monitoring program in each region of Victoria. communication between partners. Regional authorities The site gives the public free access to raw and The Gippsland Regional Water Monitoring Partnership in other parts of Victoria now aim to establish similar summary data on water quality and quantity, and is such a venture. It began in December 2002 with partnerships. All data collected by water resource is a central depot for published documents produced 18 partners jointly managing and sharing the costs monitoring partnerships will be freely available to the public at the Victorian Water Resources Data Warehouse.
25 Community land and water Wimmera Mallee Pipeline Victoria and the Commonwealth committed $7.77 million management to a detailed design study of the Wimmera Mallee Pipeline proposal. The study will verify the pipeline’s economic Objective viability, its environmental sustainability and the expected benefits to the region. The pipeline would replace To engage the community and industry in planning and 17,500 kilometres of open earthen channels and would applying long-term protection measures for land and save 93,000 megalitres of water per year which is water resources by working with groups such as Landcare, currently lost to evaporation and seepage. farmer networks and authorities Victorian River Health Strategy Key achievements August 2002 marked the launch of the Victorian River Health Strategy. The strategy establishes a vision for river NAP and NHT funding health across Victoria, sets a series of targets to get there Over the past year, the primary focus of the NAP and and establishes mechanisms to achieve the targets. It NHT programs was to help Victoria’s CMAs develop deals with the full range of river issues, recognising that regional catchment strategies. The Goulburn Broken achieving healthy rivers must be addressed through an and Mallee CMAs submitted regional catchment strategies integrated management approach. for accreditation, while extensive progress occurred in The strategy aims to develop community-driven regional the remaining seven regions. river health strategies, to be led by CMAs in consultation Victoria was the first state to achieve accreditation of with the community. Regional strategies will address each a regional catchment strategy (see page 24), the first state area’s special needs. to sign an agreement with the Commonwealth for an extension of the NHT, and the first to provide 2002–03 Native vegetation management regional funding under the program. In August 2002, the government released a new A second round of NAP funding of nearly $36 million was framework for managing native vegetation in Victoria. given to the six catchment regions in Victoria considered Native vegetation management – a framework for action most affected by salinity and water quality problems: establishes a strategic direction to protect and replace Goulburn Broken, North Central, Mallee, Wimmera, native vegetation across the state (see case study on Glenelg Hopkins and Corangamite. Funding will go page 27). It addresses native vegetation from a whole- towards protecting wetlands in the Lower Glenelg Basin, catchment perspective but with a focus on private land targeting salinity through revegetation in the Wimmera, where the critical issues from past clearing and redirecting saline water away from the Murray River in the fragmentation of native vegetation exist. Mallee and introducing landholder incentives to improve Victorian Pest Management Framework irrigation systems in the Goulburn Broken region. Instigating the government’s Victorian Pest Management Framework (VPMF) was a major priority during the year. Implementation plans for the VPMF and its strategies for weed, wild dog, fox, rabbit and public land pest management were developed.
The Mitta Mitta River below the township and Dartmouth Dam 26 In an Australian first, a weed alert rapid response plan Net gain for native vegetation was devised and implemented to ensure that potential, Protecting native vegetation is essential to addressing new and emerging weeds are detected and managed. salinity, water quality and catchment erosion on private The first stage of a three-year, $3 million enhanced land. Victoria’s Native vegetation management – a focus on fox management was implemented, with a framework for action identifies principles and goals that focus on a fox bounty trial. Community-based wild dog apply to private and public land and recognises that management groups were set up to gather community varied management approaches will apply, depending input into ongoing management of wild dogs. on the tenure and conservation value of the vegetation. Protocols were drafted for engaging Aboriginal The framework takes a transparent and consistent approach communities in dealing with pest management by to valuing native vegetation and provides a reporting developing regional and local working relationships. framework that allows Victoria to track progress towards the so-called ‘net gain’ result. Net gain refers to the Gippsland Lakes rescue package primary native vegetation management goal of ‘a reversal, The government committed $12.8 million over four years across the entire landscape, of the long-term decline in to improve water quality in the Gippsland Lakes. The the extent and quality of native vegetation’. Werribee Plains vision Gippsland Lakes Future Directions and Actions Plan was A reference group, with representatives from the The government’s plan to create an internationally endorsed by the community and aims to reduce nutrients recognised region of sustainable development was entering the lakes by 40 per cent over the next 20 years. Victorian Farmers Federation, environment groups and local councils, is helping to prepare operational guidelines unveiled in August 2002 with the release of Werribee A range of on-ground works and studies were conducted. for applying net gain. The guidelines are due for release Plains – a vision for sustainable growth. The vision The department informed local landholders about best in late 2003 and will be the first step in putting the is a bold project with the potential to transform management practices for reducing nutrient flows. New framework in place through Victoria’s planning system. Melbourne’s west into a renowned green region. It studies were commenced which aimed to better appreciate Planning rules, in particular the native vegetation aims to create more than 1000 long-term jobs, increase the water quality needs of the hinterlands and wetlands retention controls, will be revised following the release the use of recycled water by 70,000 megalitres a year, in order to maintain and enhance their biodiversity. of a discussion paper outlining the proposed changes. improve environmental flows to Werribee River and improve the health of Port Phillip Bay near Werribee High priority areas for nutrient reduction in the Gippsland Ten regional native vegetation officers are delivering by reducing the volume of effluent discharged. Lakes and catchment were identified through the ongoing training and support to councils and community continued development of the east and west Gippsland groups, while the department is working with councils Following the launch of the vision, submissions were water quality strategies. to provide up-to-date vegetation status information and invited from a range of organisations and individuals. mapping. A range of tools are helping local councils to The results of the consultation phase were released implement the framework. These tools include a native in a report, Creating a Sustainable Future, which vegetation permit tracking system and technical indicated that there is overwhelming support for the documents including the Ecological Vegetation Class vision for the Werribee Plains. It highlighted potential Benchmarks and the Habitat Hectare Assessment Manual. for new industries such as aquaculture, viticulture and plantation forests. The next step is to finalise the business plan, which will show how the government will respond to the issues raised in the consultation phase.
During 2003, as an exciting first stage in the vision for the Werribee Plains, expressions of interest were called for ideas in developing a 400-hectare horticulture precinct using recycled water at the Western Treatment Plant. Farm manager Peter Nilon demonstrates the use of recycled water on a nearby lucerne crop. Photo: Melbourne Water 27 Performance measures Community land and water management Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Community based catchment and water management plans – Quantity number 29 18 9 9 new plans drafted for approval this financial year Community based catchment and water management plans – Quantity number 103 63 52 52 total number of plans being implemented CMA regional management plans developed to implement Quantity number 10 10 10 9 regional catchment strategies Second generation salinity management plans for integrated Quantity per cent nm nm 100 0 This process requires considerable land and water management completed and endorsed community consultation which was unable to be undertaken due to the impact of the bushfires. Additional area protected from salinity by surface Quantity hectares nm 80 80 80 drainage: horticulture Additional area protected from salinity by surface Quantity hectares nm 8,300 8,300 8,300 drainage: dairy Additional area protected from salinity by surface Quantity hectares nm 850 850 850 drainage: remnant vegetation/wetlands Additional area protected from salinity by sub-surface Quantity hectares nm 100 100 100 drainage: horticulture Additional area protected from salinity by sub-surface Quantity hectares nm 4,550 4,550 4,550 drainage: dairy Additional area protected from salinity by sub-surface Quantity hectares nm 1,370 1,370 1,370 drainage: remnant vegetation/wetlands Identify the establishment of additional areas of private Quantity hectares nm nm 20,000 13,515 Reflects impact of the drought forestry and bushfires. Number of rivers with programs being implemented Quantity number nm nm 2 2 to improve environmental flow regimes Additional length of river accessible to native fish Quantity kilometres nm nm 300 300 Additional riparian restoration Quantity kilometres nm nm 50 50 Number of regional landcare plans submitted to the Quantity number nm nm 10 0 The introduction of the regional Minister for endorsement catchment investment planning process, with the consequential development of plans, has taken longer than anticipated. As a result, Landcare plans which are tied to these financial plans have been delayed.
28 Community land and water management Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Participation rate of land managers in integrated fox Quantity per cent nm nm 70 0 The fox bounty made this management within specified project areas performance measure redundant. Landholders complying with pest plant and animal Quality per cent 92 94 93 85 Reflects impact of the drought control requirements under the Catchment and Land and bushfires. Protection Act within agreed timeframes in targeted areas Proportion of state: external investment in implementation Quality ratio 4.8:2 6.2:2 >5:2 7:03 of land and water management plans Additional area of state covered by flood maps incorporated Quality per cent nm 30 30 30 into municipal planning schemes to reflect flood risk 2002–03 investment plans prepared by CMAs and accredited Quality number nm nm 6 6 under the National Action Plan Review and renewal of regional catchment management Quality number nm nm 10 10 strategies for each CMA by September 2002 Victorian Landcare groups operating with an action plan Quality per cent nm nm 50 34 Reflects impact of the drought and bushfires. Corporate plans of water authorities and CMAs compliant Timeliness per cent nm 100 100 75 Draft plans submitted for remainder. within guidelines and submitted to the Minister within They are expected to be finalised in agreed timeframes September 2003 quarter. Regional catchment strategies completed and accredited Timeliness date nm nm Oct 2002 na Process for accreditation is proving under National Action Plan for the six NAP funded CMAs more timely than estimated, to date only one regional catchment strategy has been accredited. Review and renewal of regional catchment management Timeliness date nm nm Sep 2002 Sep 2002 strategies for each of ten CMAs Landcare census report completed Timeliness date nm nm Mar 2003 Mar 2003 Development and implementation of statewide landcare Timeliness date nm nm Mar 2003 Jul 2003 support training package Measurable increase in biodiversity at specific sites as a Timeliness date nm nm Jun 2003 na The fox bounty has made this result of reduced fox predation performance measure redundant. Development of benchmark levels of foxes and biodiversity Timeliness date nm nm Jun 2003 na The fox bounty has made this at specific monitoring sites performance measure redundant. Assessment of the Gippsland Lakes Rescue Package – Timeliness date nm nm Mar 2003 Jul 2003 Phase 1 and the implementation of nutrient management activity and works in the Macalister irrigation district Establishment targets for nutrient reduction within the Timeliness date nm nm Dec 2002 Dec 2003 Reflects impact of the drought GLRP priority catchments and bushfires. Total output cost $’000 118,800 130,000 158,100 149,938 Reflects re-allocation of corporate overheads as a consequence of machinery of government changes. nm – new measure na – not applicable 29
Conservation, Recreation and Public Land
Conservation, Recreation and A prototype of the software needed to deliver the Biodiversity conservation, first stage of the Priority Actions Information System, Public Land operations enhance use and ecosystem services which will give ready advice to land managers, was developed. Updated information was gathered from the environmental, conservation regional departmental staff to ensure that the final Objective and recreational values of system is accurate. To produce tools and information critical to protecting Wetlands Victoria’s resources on public and conserving biodiversity and to maintaining and improving ecosystem services DSE held a workshop engaging stakeholders, including and private land and in marine CMAs, DPI and the State Water Quality Monitoring and Key achievements Assessment Committee of the Victorian Catchment and freshwater areas, for the Management Council, to foster a common approach to Port Phillip Bay wetlands conservation and management across Victoria. benefit and enjoyment of It was agreed that a method for wetland assessment and The first status report covering tasks agreed in the Port monitoring to meet the NAP criteria was a state priority. Phillip Bay Environmental Management Plan was published generations, now and in the A project to develop and trial a state framework for with the release of the 2001–02 Bay Actions Report. The assessing and monitoring wetlands was formulated future. This sector of operations plan aims to reduce risks to the bay environment from and will begin in 2003–04. nutrients and marine pests. Completed tasks include manages much of the state’s the formation of a joint DSE, Melbourne Water and EPA A project for assessing the condition of riverine Victoria monitoring program that provides for the early vegetation communities was also developed as part public land for the purposes detection of adverse changes in the way nutrients are of the implementation program for the Victorian River of conservation, recreation, cycled in the bay. Health Strategy. Wetland and water-related issues were incorporated into the state’s regional catchment strategies An 18-month trial of a national approach to managing the to ensure that aquatic biodiversity values are protected. education and research. risks from ship ballast water concluded. The trial and its evaluation was a major collaborative effort by private Management of threats to freshwater biodiversity was a sector shipping and port operators, EPA Victoria and DOI key focus of the projects, with draft strategic management and Commonwealth agencies, including the Australian plans for Barmah Forest, Kerang wetlands and Gunbower Quarantine Inspection Service and the CSIRO Centre for Forest released for public comment. Final plans for five Research on Introduced Marine Pests. The trial advances Ramsar sites – Port Phillip Bay (western shoreline) and key actions under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act Bellarine Peninsula, Western Port, Gippsland Lakes, Lake 1988 and responsibilities under the Environment Albacutya and Hattah-Kulkyne Lakes – were approved. Protection Act 1970. A draft policy framework for wetlands management and Threatened species protection in Victoria was also developed. The department represented Victoria on the Living Murray Implementation Draft action statements were delivered for approval of Program, which will invest $150 million in works over 39 items under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988. seven years to improve the health of the Murray River. Included were action statements for five potentially Andrew Murray is a forest manager who, over the past five years, threatening processes in freshwater aquatic ecosystems, has studied the effects of fox control on populations of native and a multi-community action statement for the five mammals in the forests of East Gippsland. Andy’s research has led to the finding that numbers of long-nosed potoroos (pictured), a lowland grassland and grassy woodland communities species of small kangaroo, increase dramatically after several years listed as threatened. of fox control. See case study on page 33. 31 Grey-headed flying foxes Future directions A program to relocate grey-headed flying foxes from the • Evaluate and develop the BushTender project, which Royal Botanic Gardens was performed during March and offers landholders the chance to receive payment for April into June (see case study on this page). services that improve the quality or extent of native vegetation on their land, and its proposed roll out Knowledge and information across catchment management regions. A strategy was developed to provide better access to the • Continue implementing the Adaptive Experimental extensive biodiversity information managed by DSE. Management approach to managing native fauna. Currently the information, including 4.5 million records • Complete biodiversity components for the regional containing information on the location of some 6200 catchment investment programs. plant species, 900 animal species and 5000 sites of biological significance, is stored in different databases, • Execute relevant parts of the Environmental limiting its online access by external users. The strategy Management Plan for Port Phillip Bay. identified the need for the major biodiversity databases • Implement the Southern Ark fox control initiative Grey-headed flying foxes to be housed in a central corporate computer across 1 million hectares of public land in East Gippsland (see case study on page 33). A project was initiated during the year to protect environment, allowing relevant information to be Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens from damage delivered to land and water managers through the • Implement strategic management plans for Barmah caused by grey-headed flying foxes over the past department’s web mapping system, MapShare. As part Forest, Gunbower Forest and Kerang wetlands 20 years. By March 2003, the flying fox colony had of the strategy, an Integrated Biodiversity Information Ramsar sites. grown to around 28,000, of which some 8000 roosted System will be developed over the next five years to • Advise on securing and managing environmental in the Gardens year-round. The colony was centred on allow questions relating to the location and management water allocations. Fern Gully, a small area of rainforest that includes a of Victoria’s biodiversity assets to be answered online. • Complete the first and second stages of the Priority significant collection of cabbage-tree palms, Victoria’s The Living Systems Resources Kit, providing education Actions Information System for threatened species. only indigenous palm species. This habitat could not and training materials for the inclusion of biodiversity • Redevelop the Atlas of Victorian Wildlife databases as sustain the damage caused by the flying fox colony. in property management planning, was completed part of the Integrated Biodiversity Information System. A trial was commenced to alleviate damage to the and distributed. • Complete the state strategy for the lethal fungus, Gardens in two ways: by attracting resident flying Phytophthora cinnamomi, and ensure it is implemented foxes to a captive colony at Horseshoe Bend in the by land managers. Melbourne suburb of Ivanhoe, and by dispersing animals from the Gardens. The trial has proved highly successful: the project team dispersed the 28,000 flying foxes from the Gardens to other parks in the city centre, and then eventually moved them to public land at Yarra Bend Park. This area will act as a staging point over spring and summer, when other flying foxes return from NSW and Queensland. After that time, it is hoped they will be attracted to Horseshoe Bend. Rehabilitation work at the Gardens has also begun. Flying foxes continue to visit Horseshoe Bend every night, attracted by the caged animals and other sensory temptations and site improvements. Few roost there during the day apart from the small number born at the site. It is hoped that more animals born at the site will form the nucleus of a resident population that may, in turn, attract other flying foxes.
32 Captive colony of grey-headed flying foxes Danger of foxes to biodiversity Over the past five years, the threats posed by foxes The mammals are monitored regularly throughout to native wildlife have been revealed by an innovative the year to see how they respond to the decline in research project called Project Deliverance. The project fox numbers. Potoroos, bandicoots and possums compared the abundance of foxes and medium-sized are captured at night and weighed, measured and native animals at a number of baited (poison-baited with microchipped in much the same way as dogs and cats. Fox-off®) and unbaited (non-poisoned Fox-off®) sites in Potoroos are attracted to the cage traps by a sweet- far East Gippsland. The sites ranged in size from 7000 smelling bait made of rolled oats, peanut butter and to 14,000 hectares. The project showed that fox control golden syrup. Project Deliverance has shown that these is critical to protecting our medium-sized native populations are increasing as a direct result of having mammals such as potoroos, bandicoots and possums. foxes removed.
In the bag … a Potoroo is uncovered from its cosy handling bag
Performance measures Biodiversity conservation, use and ecosystem services Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Regional catchment management strategies incorporating Quantity per cent nm nm 100 100 bioregional biodiversity plans Proportion of Victoria covered by Ecological Vegetation Quantity per cent nm nm 90 74 The contractor is behind schedule. Class mapping at a scale of at least 1:100000 The dataset is expected to be available late August. Land for Wildlife properties which include habitat Quantity per cent nm nm 45 35 A lower than expected percentage under-represented in the reserve system of applications was received. Items listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 Quantity number 35 40 40 39 with action statements prepared Major threats to biodiversity with management strategy Quality number nm nm 2 2 and effectiveness monitoring program Presentations made and scientific publications in peer Quality number nm nm 50 48 reviewed journals Game and wildlife licence applications assessed within Timeliness per cent nm nm 100 96 15 working days Input to planning approvals process provided within Timeliness per cent 100 100 100 96 statutory time-frames Total output cost $’000 na na 18,500 23,093 Reflects re-allocation of corporate overheads as a consequence of the machinery of government changes. nm – new measure na – not applicable
33 Nature and heritage Recreation and tourism The Sustainable Recreation and Tourism Policy was recreation and tourism services released as a guide for managers in promoting and managing the impacts of recreation and tourism on public land. Consultation was carried out with four dolphin swim Objective tour operators and one sightseeing operator to gain To promote the sustainable use of public land, historic support for a sustainable dolphin swim tour industry, places and coastal waters for recreation and tourism and accompanying regulations are being drafted. DSE contributed to the development of adventure activity Key achievements standards for the adventure tourism and group activity Alpine resorts sectors. The standards will outline minimum risk management and environmental responsibilities, covering The alpine resorts working group reviewed 80 public key business practices, leader competency, emergency submissions and submitted a report to government on the procedures, equipment, and commitment to environmentally Choosing Victoria’s marine emblem long-term direction for development of Victoria’s alpine sustainable operations. Seven standards are close to being resorts. The report will inform the direction of the Alpine finalised: for indoor and outdoor rock climbing, white During 2002, Victorians were invited to choose a Resorts 2020 Draft Strategy, due for release in 2003. water rafting, caving, recreational fishing and four-wheel state marine emblem for our magnificent marine A major collaborative body of research was performed driving, while a further ten will be developed in 2004. environment through a public nomination process. by CSIRO on climate change across the alpine bioregion Tourism, parks, recreation and environmental agencies, An expert panel of local marine scientists and in Victoria and NSW. Funding partners included the alpine industry accreditation bodies, insurers and risk educators, led by DSE/DPI chief scientist Sir Gus industry and Victorian, New South Wales and Federal management specialists are contributing to the standards. Nossal, prepared a shortlist of nine suitable marine government agencies. species from which Victorians could choose. An Community education Bushfire recovery funding was secured to help Mt Hotham overwhelming response followed during the six-week Achievements in the community education and and Falls Creek replace public assets and improve water public consultation, with 24,018 nominations received engagement area included delivery of the Box-Ironbark treatment. Bushfires in the alpine region contributed to online, by mail and by hand. ecology course and a community vote to select Victoria’s some delays in programmed capital works, particularly at new marine emblem (see case study). All Coast Final results were weedy sea dragon, 25 per cent; Mt Hotham and Falls Creek. Tourism to the alpine region, Action/Coastcare and Coasts and Clean Seas projects western blue devilfish, 18.9 per cent; southern including all the alpine resorts, was severely affected, with were completed and final audits and reports submitted pot-bellied seahorse, 13.7 per cent; vermillion sea visitor numbers during summer significantly reduced. star, 11.5 per cent; verco’s nudibranch, 8.5 per cent; to the Commonwealth. Coastal and marine issues have southern hermit crab, 7.3 per cent; shaw’s cowfish, Heritage assets progressively been included in regional catchment 5.8 per cent; giant cuttlefish, 5.7 per cent; and strategies to support the new arrangements for the The regeneration of community heritage assets was second phase of NHT funding. The annual ‘Summer Victorian scalyfin, 3.5 per cent. In October 2002, progressed across Victoria to help committees of the weedy sea dragon (Phyllopteryx taeniolatus) was by the Sea’ program, run by Coast Action, delivered management manage key heritage assets and public over 400 activities with around 25,000 participants. formally proclaimed as Victoria’s marine emblem buildings. Priorities this year were the Bright Courthouse, by the Governor of Victoria, John Landy. the Rutherglen Common School, the Bonegilla Migrant Public safety Centre and the Point Lonsdale Fog Horn Shed. The Risk management projects worth $3 million on the coast development of the Bonegilla Migrant Centre as a major and within alpine resorts and local ports were funded tourism and educational centre has advanced well, with and successfully completed. Major public safety construction expected to begin later in 2003 on the improvement projects included resurfacing the walkway new entry pavilion and interpretative centre. on the Warrnambool breakwater; managing access around Heritage experts from DSE studied the damage caused the cliffs at Jan Juc, Cameron’s Bight and the Mornington by the bushfires to known archeological sites, and began Peninsula; reconstructing the access road at Mt Hotham; studies to document new sites unearthed by the fires completing a water safety signage audit; and installing Victoria’s new marine emblem, the weedy sea dragon (see case study on page 35). new water safety signs that conform to state standards. 34 Coastal management • Contribute to the review and extension of the Fires reveal hidden historic assets The annual Coastal Awards for Excellence, hosted by Victorian Heritage Strategy. Recent wildfires in Victoria’s north-east and Gippsland the Victorian Coastal Council and Coast Action/Coastcare, • Complete recommendations made by the port reform have unexpectedly revealed our hidden heritage by were attended by over 200 people, with 16 awards being review by implementing the Local Ports Strategy, exposing archaeological relics that were concealed for presented. Expressions of interest were called to fill improving governance arrangements and carrying decades under dense vegetation. Heritage experts from community positions on the three regional coastal out capital works for local ports. DSE and Parks Victoria inspected damage at known sites boards, with three new boards appointed. • Finalise studies on feasibility options to improve sand and began surveys to document new sites revealed by management at Lakes Entrance and to boost the economic the fires, including stamp batteries and other abandoned Future directions value of recreational beaches in Port Phillip Bay. mining equipment; settlement sites; old packhorse tracks; and water races. Information collected will greatly • Develop licensing reform to improve processes for • Assess proposals and allocate funding for risk- enhance our understanding of the mining history of recreation and tourism operators on public land. management works for the alpine, coastal and local ports areas. the alpine goldfields and will provide opportunities Review and negotiate improvements to the dredging • for heritage tourism. agreement between EPA Victoria and DSE. • Deliver Box-Ironbark and freshwater ecology courses, ‘Summer by the Sea’ and other activities for the benefit • Launch the Alpine Resorts 2020 Strategy and carry of land managers, community groups and committees out marketing for the alpine area. of management.
Performance measures Nature and heritage recreation and tourism services Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 New tourism/recreation development proposals on Quantity number nm nm 1 1 public land Participants in Coast Action/Coastcare activities Quantity number nm nm 18–20 25 The summer activities program (’000) in January attracted the highest number of participants in the nine-year history of the program. Statewide risk management projects completed to Quality per cent nm nm 100 60 Works delayed due to resources DSE satisfaction being redirected to bushfire suppression and recovery activities. Implementation of annually agreed actions of major strategies Quality per cent nm nm 100 100 Community perception of Parks Victoria in managing bays, Quality per cent nm nm 55–60 81 Reflects a change in the data piers and selected waterways collection methodology. Coastal Management Act consents completed within Timeliness per cent nm nm 100 100 statutory timeframes Alpine leasing approvals signed within 8 weeks Timeliness per cent nm nm 80 80 Total output cost $’000 na na 27,400 72,380 Mainly attributed to a decision in the Supreme Court in April 2003, in which the state was ordered to pay $45.37 million as legal settlement to Seal Rocks Sealife Centre. nm – new measure na – not applicable 35 The agreement also negotiated a settlement deed Public land management including a cooperative management agreement for significant Crown land; three grants of Crown land; Objective a consulation procedure for major developments; and a role in cultural heritage management. To actively manage Crown land, ensuring a balance between development and protection of natural, cultural Alpine leasing and community assets The alpine resorts leasing policy and guidelines were developed for the leasing and licensing of Crown land. Key achievements They have widespread support and give clarity and security to lessees and investors in alpine resorts Crown land improvement (see case study on this page). Both the Crown Land Improvement Program and the Caravan Parks Upgrade Program concluded. The programs There was increased demand on staff resources due to funded some 565 projects, generating nearly $23 million major development proposals requiring environmental Alpine resorts leasing policy of works on Crown land through grants and matching effects statements, and due to many staff being redirected A new leasing policy and framework for Crown contributions. Examples of projects include improvements to fire-related duties. land within alpine resorts encourage sustainable to public halls, new sport and recreation facilities, development while recognising the valuable economic construction of walking tracks and rail trails, improved Future directions and tourism contribution that alpine resorts make public amenity and reduced environmental impacts of • Develop an Indigenous land management framework to Victoria. Our alpine resorts add $128 million to the caravan parks on Crown land. to address the land and resource management economy each year and create over 3740 jobs, mainly aspirations of Indigenous communities. in the regions. During the past eight years, investment Native title Undertake a pilot project to determine the economic has topped $120 million at the large resorts of Falls • A strong regional native title network was established and social value to the state of Crown land reserves Creek, Mt Buller and Mt Hotham. Alpine resorts attract across DSE and DPI, reflecting obligations under the up to 900,000 visitors each winter and about 450,000 managed by committees of management. Native Title Act 1993. Guidelines and procedures relating at other times. • Implement an education and training package to ‘future acts’ under the Act were disseminated across developed for committees of management to build The policy and framework were developed after the departments. The guidelines indicate when notice the capacity of the community to manage Crown land. consultation with tenants, investors, financiers, must be given to native title claimants of a future act to • Deliver whole-of-government ‘future act’ guidelines alpine resort management boards and the Alpine which the right to negotiate applies. Any proposed activity under the Native Title Act 1993 to raise awareness of Resorts Coordinating Council. They received broad or development that may affect native title may be classed government obligations under the Act, and develop a support and reflect the changing role of alpine as a future act. resorts as year-round destinations. They are key compliance strategy to ensure that these duties are met. In October 2002, the Victorian Government negotiated tools to attract long-term investment to our resorts • Review Crown land legislation, particularly the Land Act an in-principle agreement with the Wotjobaluk Peoples and to maintain attractive, viable, year-round tourist 1958 and the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978, to destinations for the public. The policy gives security to settle their native title claim on almost 1 million deliver a modern, flexible regime capable of meeting to alpine tenants and investors while providing a fair hectares of Crown land in the Wimmera and central changing community expectations for the stewardship return to the state for the use of Crown land. It also western Victoria, including the Little Desert and Big of public land. gives lessees new entitlements that will encourage Desert wilderness parks. and attract development and investment in the The in-principle agreement includes a consent resorts and see the upgrade, refurbishment and determination that native title rights to hunt, fish, gather on-going maintenance of existing facilities to meet and camp exist over 2 per cent of the claim, and that no visitor expectations into the future. native title rights exist over the remainder of the claim.
Mount Hotham, one of Victoria’s popular alpine resorts Photo: Maureen Gearon – Victorian Snow Reporting Service 36 Members of the Wotjobaluk native title claimant group, including William John Kennedy (or Uncle Jack, third from left, front row) and Kaylene Pamela Clarke (fourth from left, front row) together with the state’s negotiation team, including DSE staff Allan McPherson (fourth from left, back row), Sirma Hatzigianelis (far right, back row) and Lyn McLachlan (far right, front row)
Performance measures Public land management Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Land within the public land management (Land Victoria) Quantity per cent nm 73 60 60 portfolio actively managed Parcels of Crown land actively managed that had a formal Quality per cent nm 1 <1 <1 complaint to the Minister Dealings regarding land management responded within Timeliness per cent nm 70 85 79 Reflects the impact of bushfires. statute or service agreement timeframes Total output cost $’000 na 21,900 24,400 26,504 Reflects re-allocation of corporate overheads as a consequence of the machinery of government changes. nm – new measure na – not applicable
37 Services for management and Future directions • Identify and acquire land to include in the national governance of Victoria’s parks parks and conservation reserves system. • Establish a pilot grievance process to deal with Objective concerns regarding discretionary decisions made To protect and enhance Victoria’s renowned parks, by public land managers in the Box-Ironbark region reserves and historic properties for the enjoyment of north-central Victoria. of generations now and in the future • Develop a co-management agreement with an Indigenous community. Key achievements • Develop and implement natural and cultural values and visitor services recovery programs in park areas Box-Ironbark parks affected by recent wildfires. In October 2002, in response to Environment • Deliver programs for the management of Box-Ironbark Protecting Box-Ironbark Conservation Council recommendations on Box-Ironbark parks, marine national parks and marine sanctuaries. • Address the immediate and long-term impacts of recent Legislation to create 11 new national, national-heritage forests and woodlands, legislation was developed to wildfires on the parks and reserves system by delivering and state parks, and seven nature conservation create 11 new or expanded national, state and national extra rehabilitation programs and redirecting resources. reserves in the Box-Ironbark area was enacted in heritage parks, and seven new conservation reserves in October 2002. The new parks cover more than 105,000 the Box-Ironbark region. The move significantly enhances • Provide adequate management in state areas that are hectares. Six new park rangers and 13 extra planning Victoria’s parks system (see case study on this page). not Box-Ironbark parks, marine national parks and and field staff were appointed to manage the new marine sanctuaries, or fire recovery priorities. Marine parks parks and reserves, located in north-central and north- • Involve Indigenous communities more closely in east Victoria. Management plans for some parks and In November 2002, legislation came into effect in park management and improve relationships and state forests have begun. A grievance process was Victoria establishing 13 marine national parks and consultation. Continue to increase the number of developed in consultation with stakeholders to ensure 11 marine sanctuaries, covering some 54,000 hectares Indigenous staff on the workforce, improve Indigenous that those directly affected by decisions made by of our marine waters. The government sought public business opportunities and develop relationships with public land managers will have their concerns heard. comment on and finalised a strategy to guide the Indigenous communities. management of the new parks and sanctuaries, prior Several initiatives were developed to help the to preparing park management plans. A comprehensive community make the transition to the new regulatory framework, the National Parks (Park) management arrangements. These include an Regulations 2003, now helps protect and manage assistance package for forest workers to voluntarily the parks system, including these new areas. leave the industry; a draft recreation framework to show where all popular recreations may be undertaken; five-year firewood plans indicating the availability and source of firewood; a new firewood licensing system; and guidelines for recreational prospecting.
Visitors enjoy the natural environment of the Box-Ironbark region 38 Performance measures Services for management and governance of Victoria’s parks Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Visitor numbers: Parks Victoria estate Quantity millions 29.9 39.4 31.2 64.8 Higher results reflect a change in the data collection methodology. Threatened native species and communities for which Quantity number nm nm 20 20 specifically targeted conservation measures are in place – throughout Parks Victoria network of parks and reserves Threatened native species and communities for which Quantity number nm nm 6 6 specifically targeted conservation measures are in place – at Royal Botanic Gardens Threatened native species and communities for which Quantity number nm nm 13 13 specifically targeted conservation measures are in place – at Zoo Visitor satisfaction with Parks Victoria services Quality 100 point 66 68 70–75 72 index Community perception of Parks Victoria in providing Quality per cent nm nm 85–90 92 adequate recreational opportunities in the metropolitan area and country Victoria Community perception of Parks Victoria in managing: Quality per cent nm nm 80–85 81 the protected area estate Community perception of Parks Victoria in managing: Quality per cent nm nm 70–75 95 Higher results reflect a change in Melbourne’s major metropolitan parks the data collection methodology. Community perception of Parks Victoria in managing: Quality per cent nm nm 65–70 97 As above. cultural heritage assets Proportion of priority actions as defined in Parks Victoria Timeliness per cent nm nm 95 80 Reflects the impact of bushfires Corporate Plan 2001–02 – 2003–04 delivered within on program. agreed timeframe Total output cost $’000 na na 140,400 148,362 Reflects re-allocation of corporate overheads as a consequence of the machinery of government changes. nm – new measure na – not applicable
39
Forest and Fire Management
Forest and Fire Management • 75 full-time fire management staff that work in Fire facts planning, prevention, operations and coordination operations provide expert • 600–800 full-time seasonal fire fighters employed Background on fire during each fire season management of forest utilisation Fire was part of this continent’s landscape long before • 350 special 4WD vehicles, each holding 400 litres of water humans arrived. It appeared in the landscape at a time • 81 4WD fire tankers, each holding 4000 litres of water and fire control on public land. of climatic and geological change. With these climatic • 31 first-attack bulldozers and geological changes came the spread of the eucalypts, The objective is the sustainable six large bulldozers, and extra bulldozers are hired acacias and grasses we know today. Over hundreds of • as needed management of 3.5 million thousands of years, our ecosystems have developed specialised relationships with fire. Burning of the land • 23 specialised contracted aircraft, which are jointly hectares of state forest for a to enhance revegetation of native foods was practised managed with the CFA. by Aboriginal people for thousands of years. range of productive, conservation Recent wildfires On average, some 621 wildfires occur in our parks and The 2002–03 wildfires were the largest experienced in forests each year. Lightning causes about a third of these, and recreation uses. A key the state since 1939’s ‘Black Friday’, when fires burned while people cause the remaining two-thirds, either 1.5–2 million hectares. Lightning caused 28 per cent responsibility is the management accidentally or deliberately. of all fires, and these fires made up 98.9 per cent of of fire on Victoria’s 8 million Fighting fire in Victoria the area burnt within public land. On 17 December, a lightning storm started a major fire in the Big Desert hectares of public land to protect Victoria’s climate, weather patterns and vegetation make in Victoria’s remote north-west. The fire burnt 181,000 it one of the most wildfire-susceptible regions in the hectares and wasn’t contained until Christmas Eve. human life and property and to world. In response, Victoria has developed some of the The largest fires last summer began on 8 January 2003, most advanced fire fighting methods. after high temperatures, low humidity and numerous sustain biodiversity. DSE and the CFA share a formal, cooperative agreement thunderstorms brought lightning but little rain. They to work together to prevent, prepare for and fight burned nearly 1 million hectares of public land, mainly wildfires in rural Victoria. DSE also has service level in national parks and state forests, and 90,000 hectares agreements with DPI and Parks Victoria, who provide key of private land. fire response resources at regional and state-wide levels. The unprecedented emergency saw the involvement of: DSE is responsible for managing and protecting • more than 6000 fire personnel, including 3350 staff from 8 million hectares, or about one third, of Victoria, DSE, DPI and Parks Victoria, and 3000 CFA volunteers including state forests, national parks and other Crown • 130 CFA trucks land. The CFA fights fires on about 15 million hectares extra reconnaissance-type aircraft, including 1 infra-red of private land in rural and regional Victoria, protecting • mapping aircraft from the USA around 980,000 homes and 2.5 million people. • one extra Erikson aircrane The Victorian Government has significant staff and • hundreds of fire and rescue personnel and volunteers resources dedicated to protecting Victorians and property Joshua Watt is employed as a seasonal fire fighter with DSE, based from the army and navy, NSW, QLD, SA, Tasmania, from wildfires. DSE has: at Daylesford. Seasonal fire fighters are regularly employed by the NZ and the US department on a full time basis to help suppress wildfire. Apart from fire fighting, they perform duties such as prescribed burning, track • around 2600 fire-trained staff, including fire fighters, • 50 bulldozers from DSE, the timber industry and clearing and road construction. During last year's severe fire season, aircraft specialists and support staff private sector. Joshua served as a seasonal fire fighter from late October to March 2003, and is pictured at Ovens, near Myrtleford in north-east Victoria. 41 Map of wildfires 2002–03
The main eastern Victorian fire, which stretched from Mt Buffalo, to the New South Wales border and to the Tubbut area in East Gippsland, burnt more than 1 million hectares 42 Fire fighting methods The type of fire fighting commonly conducted in Victoria’s parks and forests is called ‘dry fire fighting’ as it involves controlling wildfires with minimal water. Control lines are used to curb the spread of the wildfire, and are constructed so that fire fighting techniques such as back burning can be undertaken. Control lines are established by clearing an earth break around the fire using a modified rake called a rakehoe, or using a bulldozer. Vegetation and all flammable materials are removed from inside the lines, which are about a metre wide. A control line can also be a natural barrier such as a rock face or river or a constructed barrier such as a pre-existing road. Fire fighters also rely on a water and foam mixture to directly extinguish fires. Ground suppression techniques involve the use of specialised 4WD vehicles and tankers to access the fire edge and to transport personnel and equipment to the fire. Ground fire fighters are often supported by aerial suppression where aircraft are used to help control the fire.
Top: Sarah Forde, a DSE fire fighter based in Robinvale, in action during the alpine fires Bottom: Dennis Baldridge, a visiting fire specialist from San Diego, USA 43 Fire operations Future directions • Implement the government’s response to the Victorian Bushfire Inquiry and the Auditor General’s report on Objective rural fire prevention and preparedness. To plan for and carry out activities to minimise the effects • Accelerate the recruitment of people into fire roles to of wildfire, including hazard management and fire overcome a likely workforce exodus of experienced fire fighting, and to perform response and recovery activities managers over the next five years. • Refine hazard management programs. Key achievements • Develop extended contingency arrangements for the 2003–04 fire season. Fire fighting across Victoria As the 2002–03 summer approached, several years of less than average annual rainfall had left the state’s Celebrations in Bright, Myrtleford and Mount Beauty Longest sustained fire effort in over forests and woodlands particularly vulnerable to wildfire. During the fire season, crews from DSE, DPI and Parks To mark the alpine fire fighting effort, nearly 2500 people 60 years Victoria attended 857 wildfires, including eight in NSW. took part in thank you celebrations in the towns of Bright, Fire fighters from DSE, DPI, Parks Victoria, CFA and Fires burned nearly 1.2 million hectares of Victoria’s Myrtleford and Mount Beauty. parks and forests, significantly exceeding the 20-year over 30 other agencies battled wildfires in the north- The weekend began with a civic luncheon hosted in average of 621 fires, which burn around 117,000 hectares. east for 59 days, 24 hours a day. Strategies were Myrtleford. In one of many generous gestures over the adopted to strengthen their ability to slow the southerly Throughout the year, fire prevention and preparedness weekend, the Alpine Region Tourism Organisation march of the fires. For instance, the topography of the work continued. Works included the maintenance of announced it would give fire fighters and support staff area was used to create north–south containment lines fire detection networks – fire towers and local offices; involved in the north-east fires a discount card for a wide that mirrored the ridge and valley orientation in this the preparation of staff standby rosters to meet agreed range of goods and services in alpine areas. part of Victoria. These strategies helped fire fighters readiness and response plans; and the training and to hold the western flank of the fire and to put an After lunch, a parade moved through central Bright. equipping of 2600 fire personnel to meet the projected extraordinary effort into containing the fire to the People lined the streets, waving flags, throwing streamers seasonal risk (see graph on page 45). north. This was no mean feat when considering that and cheering loudly as representatives of the Red Cross, at its peak, the fire produced a 300 kilometre fire front. Victoria’s alpine fires St John Ambulance, Army, Wildlife Rescue, ABC Radio, Hancock Plantations and CFA marched with DSE, Parks Fires in the north-east began in the middle of a high- The 59-day campaign to fight wildfires in Victoria’s Victoria and DPI crews and support staff. Municipal bands risk season. While focus was on forest fires, there was north-east and Gippsland began on 8 January 2003, helped keep everyone in time. a serious risk closer to the metropolitan area and in when lightning strikes started 87 wildfires. Fire fighters other parts of country Victoria. Resources were thus from DSE, supported by teams from DPI, Parks Victoria In one of the most heart-rending moments of the strategically placed across the state to ensure an and the CFA, managed to contain most of the fires in weekend, a minute’s silence was observed and a lament effective response or ‘first strike’ capability in highly the first several days. played on bagpipes to honour Cheryl Barber-Fankhauser, vulnerable areas. This is why not all available resources a seasonal departmental fire fighter killed in a flash flood were deployed to the north-east. The intense effort saw crews experience great difficulty during the wildfires. reaching fires in often steep and inhospitable terrain. Staff that joined the fire effort in the north-east Over 3000 CFA volunteers provided invaluable assistance The first day ended with a fireworks display, while and Gippsland gained valuable skills from their across eastern Victoria. Staff from all agencies moved on Sunday a barbecue was held in Mt Beauty. These deployment. This was very effective in building the quickly from across Victoria to back local fire fighters. communities put on a terrific event to show their organisation’s capability and capacity to respond appreciation for the contribution fire fighters made to future emergency situations. On 7 March, the largest wildfire in Victoria in 60 years in working so hard to protect them, their families and was declared contained when works in far East Gippsland their properties. were completed. However, until good rains fell,
A fireline patrol at the alpine fires considerable monitoring and patrol work continued. 44 Performance measures Fire operations Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Fuel reduction burning completed Quantity hectares 65.8 81.14 100 49.2 See below* (’000) Fire controlled at less than 5 hectares Quality per cent 86.8 86 75 82 Due to increased training more fires were controlled but took longer to extinguish due to dry seasonal conditions. Fires controlled at first attack Timeliness per cent 94.5 79.6 75 68.2 Variation due to dry seasonal conditions. Total output cost $’000 50,200 48,500 32,900 138,818 Reflects the cost of the Victorian bushfires. * The area of fuel reduction burning was significantly less than forecast due to a number of reasons, which varied across the state. The primary reasons are: In Gippsland and Port Phillip, damp autumn conditions curtailed burning programs. The North West was extremely dry, such that attempts to meet the area target would have resulted in unacceptable tree scorch and property risk. The South West almost achieved its target with good burning conditions prevailing in the Grampians in autumn. In the North East conditions were dry as they were in the North West and resources were directed at fire rehabilitation and recovery efforts.
Total available fire personnel 2002–03
3000
2500
2000
1500
1000 Seasonal fire fighters 500 Parks Victoria DPI 0 DSE Jul 02 Aug 02 Sep 02 Oct 02 Nov 02 Dec 02 Jan 03 Feb 03 Mar 03 Apr 03 May 03 Jun 03
Note: Figures do not include support staff 45 Fire prevention and planning Fire fighting support Australasia supplied 48 fire fighters to the USA during August and early September 2002. The department and Objectives agencies contributed 14 incident managers and aircraft To establish the framework for effective fire management management personnel. on public land and to perform activities to prevent wildfire In October 2002, the department helped State Forests and Parks NSW fight eight fires. It provided 104 fire Key achievements management personnel and an infra-red scanning aircraft, with four associated support personnel, to detect fires Major reviews of fire protection plans for Portland from the aircraft and interpret maps produced from and Bendigo and the North East and Port Phillip the fire scan. regions were carried out and taken to final draft stage after consultation with land managers, the CFA, local In mid-December 2002, the department’s Gippsland region interest groups and the community. Their completion, supplied 80 people with vehicles and bulldozers to help Bushfire preparedness in the expected by December 2003, was delayed due to the the NSW Parks Service fight the ‘Slaughterhouse Creek’ south-west recent wildfires and machinery of government changes. fire. This fire burned 30,000 hectares and later joined the alpine fires in early February 2003. Existing fire communication networks and infrastructure In November 2002, DSE’s south-west region ran to support fire operations were upgraded and maintained, The department successfully joined the Australasian a pre-fire season simulated training exercise for and extra courses to train incident controllers and Fire Authorities Council and other national fire incident management teams in Horsham. The planning officers were conducted. The courses were management organisations to seek $20 million in Federal simulated exercise revolved around a real-time conducted according to the timeframes established in Government funding for a National Cooperative Research escalating series of fire events in the South Wimmera the five-year training and accreditation strategy. Centre for Bushfires. and Grampians areas. Each of the five fire districts within the south-west contributed a full incident The four major preparation arrangements for the fire management team covering all key positions. season were brought forward by one month: Future directions Over 80 key staff were involved. • By the end of September 2002, a process to match the • Monitor trends in the number of written complaints An incident management team manages the fire number of available skilled personnel and the amount about smoke from prescribed or planned fires and fighting effort for a particular fire or fires. Located of fire equipment against a set standard, called the introduce strategies to reduce complaints. at an incident control centre, usually a DSE or CFA Model of Fire Cover, was completed. • Prepare to review the Code of Practice for Fire office, the team consists of an incident controller, • By the end of October 2002, readiness and response Management on Public Land and revise fire protection a planning officer, an operations officer and a logistics plans across Victoria were completed. The plans plans, in line with requirements to update them every officer. Each officer has his or her own team, which describe where all available resources – people and 10 years. varies in size according to the nature of the incident, equipment – are located and set rostering arrangements • Accelerate the recruitment of people into fire roles all under the direction of the incident controller. in place to ensure that emergency response capacity to overcome a likely workforce exodus of experienced The training was an excellent platform to hone is available at all times. fire management people over the next five years. incident management skills and served well as • By December 2002, a simulated training exercise had • Improve fire prevention activities. This may involve a launching pad for what transpired to be active been completed with more than 80 staff (see case increasing the annual area of fuel reduction burning involvement in a busy fire season. study on this page), and 700 summer fire fighters were and undertaking a review of fuel reduction burning engaged. The department employs 500 fire fighters for that considers short-term and long-term approaches. The department and the CFA provided a team of real- a ‘normal’ season. time performance monitors to observe teams in action, Contracts were completed to place aircraft on standby to provide live feedback and to improve their skills. • over the summer months, hiring the heavy helicopter from the USA and taking a lead role in establishing the National Fire Aviation Strategy. Staff take part in a pre-fire season simulated training exercise 46 DSE and CFA joint agency forums After the Benalla forum, a joint training exercise helped DSE, DPI and agencies put together a $70.6 million fire Prior to the fire season, over 80 representatives from familiarise level 3 incident management team members recovery package following the alpine fires, to aid recovery DSE, DPI, Parks Victoria and the CFA met in Lakes with each other across the participating organisations. of catchments and water; to restore assets in parks, Entrance and Benalla to finetune readiness and response It helped to further the already strong relationship forests and alpine resorts; to restore ecological and arrangements across the north-east and Gippsland. between DSE and CFA. cultural heritage; and to support farming communities. Key issues discussed included the Multi-Agency Bushfire recovery To date, fire recovery efforts have achieved much. The government has rehabilitated more than 7000 kilometres Cooperative Agreement, fire management protocols, Wildfires in north-east and north-west Victoria and joint incident management teams, the safety adviser role, of fire control lines on public and private land, protecting Gippsland spread over almost 1.2 million hectares soils and water quality. Water supplies have been restored, OH&S incident management and reporting, and real-time of public land, burning parks and state forests, performance monitoring. and debris removed from rivers and streams. Access and including tourist areas and vital water catchments. facilities, particularly in popular tourist destinations like The two-day conference at Lakes Entrance aimed Around 90,000 hectares of private land was also burnt alpine resorts, have gradually been restored. About 1500 at planning for the coming summer by working out during the alpine fires, affecting local communities kilograms of alpine ash eucalypt seed has been collected how the agencies could work more safely, effectively and farms. and sown in priority fire-ravaged areas of state forests and cooperatively. containing juvenile trees, which cannot produce seed.
Performance measures Fire prevention and planning Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Readiness and response plans completed Quantity number 5 5 5 6 A statewide readiness and response plan was also produced. Incident channel sites maintained as part of DSE’s Quantity number nm 51 51 51 radio communication network Personnel with accreditation in a fire role Quantity number nm 1,100 1,100 1,194 Dry seasonal conditions and increased focus on engaging staff resulted in a higher number of accreditations. Proportion of personnel accredited in a fire role who Quality per cent nm 14 10 13 As above. have level 2 or 3 accreditation Readiness and response plans completed prior to fire Timeliness date Nov 2000 Dec 01 Dec 2002 Nov 02 season Assessments of standards of cover completed prior Timeliness date Nov 2000 Nov 01 Nov 2002 Oct 02 to fire season Total output cost $’000 14,300 16,000 23,300 19,129 Reflects the re-allocation of resources between outputs. nm – new measure
47 Sustainable forest Forest plans Community involvement Work on the Gippsland and Mildura forest management The department worked with the community on a management services plans was completed, while headway was made on those number of fronts. It established a trial of community for Portland, Horsham and Bendigo. Forest management forestry in the Wombat Forest, near Ballarat, where the Objective plans are 10-year blueprints for the sustainable community, in conjunction with land managers, management of our forests. These plans are being determines management direction and implementation. To manage the sustainability of Victoria’s state forests produced for each of the 14 forest management areas Five workshops were held to discuss the future of forests by protecting their environmental and cultural values, across Victoria. They are also consistent with each of in the area (see case study on page 49). while supporting forest industries for economic and the five regional forest agreements in place across the DSE also worked with the community to deliver new or community benefit state, which are 20-year plans for the conservation and upgraded recreational facilities such as walking tracks, sustainable management of Australia’s native forests. Key achievements car parks, camping facilities and viewing platforms. Forest audits A number of sites received upgrades, including the The department made a major contribution to the Gippsland Lakes Tramway Trail, Toorongo Falls near suppression of the Big Desert and alpine wildfires and The department completed four audits of forests Noojee, Marriners Falls, Sabine Falls near Apollo Bay to the subsequent rehabilitation planning and works, undergoing timber harvesting operations in public native and Lake Elizabeth in the Otway Ranges. forests, and published the annual Code of Forest Practices including upgrades of roads and building of new fire DSE continued restoring the Delatite pine plantation to control lines. Threatened species and communities for Timber Production. The audits assessed whether water quality and other forest values are protected during timber native vegetation (see case study on page 49), including impacted by the fires were monitored, and measures the planting of 80,000 trees, the direct seeding of 93 were put in place to aid their recovery. harvesting. The findings indicated that there is a high level of compliance with requirements to protect these values, hectares and the collection of 850 kilograms of mixed including keeping out of buffer areas next to water courses species eucalypt seed. and other areas excluded to protect flora and fauna. Performance measures Sustainable forest management services Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Forest Management Areas subject to code of forest practices Quantity number 4 4 4 4 audit Gross area of state forest with current management plans Quantity per cent nm 75 80 77 Reflects the re-allocation of staff to fight bushfires. Gross area of state forest where forest resource inventory Quality per cent nm 55 68 62 Resources redirected to Licence is complete Renewal Process. Improved opportunities for community involvement in forest Quality per cent nm nm 50 50 planning management and education Asset management maintenance program developed and Quality per cent nm nm 60 50 Reflects the re-allocation of staff implemented to fight bushfires. Improved timber resource estimates completed within Quality per cent nm nm 30 18 As above. harvestable areas of state forest Regional forest agreement milestones due in the reporting Timeliness per cent nm 80 80 55 As above. year that are achieved Total output cost $’000 na 34,500 69,800 87,842 Reflects the re-allocation of resources between outputs.
48 nm – new measure na – not applicable Future directions • Develop the Environmental Management System for critical activities in state forests, with high-priority • Complete a timber resource analysis, which will help commercial, fire management and forest management determine the volumes of timber that can be licensed activities prepared and audited by June 2004. to sawmills. • Establish a set of international long-term ecological • Improve the provision of information to communities research sites in mountain ash forests by 30 June 2004. and stakeholders. • Establish a greenhouse technical unit at Creswick, • Complete an evaluation of the community forestry trial including the appointment of five to six new positions by June 2004. and the associated infrastructure, by 30 September 2003.
New forest signage on Forest Drive • habitat for the leadbeaters possum in a forest Visitors to Marysville can now get more out of their trip protection zone which excludes the harvesting of timber to the region following the upgrade of Lady Talbot Forest • Beckters Lookout with panoramic views of the forest Drive. The upgrade, which includes new signage, will be and Marysville township. Delatite Arm regeneration a model for improving forest information, and tourist access and infrastructure in Victoria’s state forests. Community help with forest planning The Delatite Arm regeneration project aims to More than 150 members of the Bendigo and district re-establish native vegetation on the Delatite pine The 46 kilometre drive starts in Marysville and loops community joined DSE staff at five workshops to discuss plantation as it is gradually harvested by Hancock around through the forest to the main Buxton–Marysville the future of forests in the area. Victorian Plantations. The plantation, begun in Road. It offers views of rainforest, mountain ash and the 1950s, is about 2000 hectares in size and lies alpine ash forest and waterfalls, as well as spectacular The workshops were held at St Arnaud, Maryborough, between Lake Eildon National Park and the Delatite views of Marysville. Castlemaine, Bendigo and Rushworth and allowed the Arm Reserve. community to participate in the development of a forest The drive will be the central plank of a range of management plan for local state forests. Community Planting of native species, such as blue gums, began community education initiatives in the area, showcasing engagement is a key part of the process for developing in September 2001. By 30 June 2003, nearly 150,000 the area’s natural attractions and explaining to visitors the the plan over the next 18 months. It will set out principles mixed eucalypt species were planted. Harvested principles of sustainable forest management in Victoria. for the balanced use and care of state forests, in keeping areas were also burned, promoting the germination Signs were developed after consultation with the with the government’s commitment to ecologically of understorey species from the soil seed bank. The Marysville community and regional staff. The department, sustainable forest management. Forest Science Centre, in Creswick, is supporting the tourism groups and the timber industry have worked project through a research and development program. Each workshop attracted a crowd from such diverse together to bring a terrific educational initiative to the areas as beekeeping, timber production, prospecting and A number of local schools have become involved local community and to visitors to the area. mining, orienteering, field naturalism, hunting and local in the project through educational activities and by The drive offers six stops with special attractions, government. The local Aboriginal community also planting trees for their community service programs. including: participated. Experiences so far have enabled the development of an information note on revegetating former pine • the Taggerty River picnic area, highlighting the At the end of the workshops, participants took home plantations to assist landholders to undertake their protection of water catchments a report with the ideas, suggestions and opportunities own projects. • fine examples of mountain ash, the giants of the generated from the day’s discussions. Many attendees forest, regenerated since the 1939 bushfires commented that the workshops allowed them to discuss • myrtle beech rainforest within the Yarra Ranges issues with people they had not spoken with before. National Park Further opportunities to work with the community are • a walking track in alpine ash forest which is now being explored. regenerating after timber harvesting
Planting at Tin Shed Gully 49 Sustainable forest production Impact of fires Most sawlog customer requirements were fulfilled, with and industry development timber harvesting meeting DSE’s current commitments to licensed customers, despite considerable interruption Objective to forest operations during the wildfires and during protesting activities (see performance measures on To generate a fair return to Victoria by managing page 51). commercial native forests in a transparent and A major timber salvage program was undertaken after commercially viable way, while promoting a competitive, the fires, along with forest rehabilitation and an extensive efficient and sustainable timber industry seed collection program. More than 1500 kilograms of eucalypt seed was collected to revegetate areas of young Key achievements alpine ash killed by fires (see case study on page 51). Sawlog buyback Priority sites have been sown with the seed. Industry Transition Taskforce The government’s Voluntary Licence Reduction Program Future directions In 2002, the government established the Industry (VLRP) was implemented with assistance from the Separate the policy, regulatory and commercial forestry Transition Taskforce to ensure the forestry industry Industry Transition Taskforce (see case study on this • functions of the department through the structural was able to provide input into implementation of page), prompting 40 sawlog licences to be surrendered. initiatives under the government’s forest policy, Our Overall, 265,000 cubic metres of sawlogs were bought separation of Forestry Victoria and its transformation Forests, Our Future. The taskforce comprises industry back, exceeding the program target. The VLRP, part of into the separate business entity, VicForests, by nominees Pete Steedman (Chairman) and Norman the $80 million Our Forests, Our Future initiative, will December 2003. Huon, and government representatives including see a 33 per cent reduction in licensed sawlog volumes • Complete the next stages of forestry reform for Victoria, Kerry Lee of the Department of Treasury and Finance, harvested from Victorian forests by the end of the 2003 ensuring a sustainable native forest logging industry Ian Kennedy of the Department of Innovation, Industry calendar year. It will see the closure of close to 30 mills with an economic future based on production from and Regional Development, and Peter Rutherford across the state: in Portland, the Midlands, Tambo, native forests, by June 2004. of Forestry Victoria. Dandenong, central Gippsland, East Gippsland and the • Build stronger partnerships with DSE’s industry north east forest management areas. Ably led by Mr Steedman, the taskforce provided customers – timber, building, furniture and other wood users – and ensure greater understanding in advice to the government on the Voluntary Licence Assistance programs Reduction Program, the Contractor Assistance the community of forestry practices and products. Program and the Worker Assistance Program, which Large numbers of applications for the Contractor were put in place to help industry participants adjust Assistance Program have been received and are being to new resource levels. The taskforce also advised on processed. The program aims to ease the transition for the recommendations of the independent review into contractors directly affected by the implementation the harvest and haulage sector and the key issues of the VLRP. facing the industry’s future development and viability. There was a positive response to the Worker Assistance The ITT has worked hard to ensure industry input Program, which aims to ease the transition for workers into its activities through regionally based consultation made redundant as a result of the reduction in the volume forums and establishment of a state industry of timber harvested. Nearly 65 per cent of workers to consultative forum comprising the Construction, receive help under the program, either in cash or in Forestry, Mining and Energy Union, the Victorian training, have been re-employed in other areas. Some Association of Forest Industries and the Victorian applications are still being processed. Forest Harvesting and Cartage Council.
The timber industry provides a range of products for the community 50 Alpine ash seed collection Following Victoria’s recent wildfires, forestry staff and It was critical for seed to be sown in burnt areas during crews were kept extremely busy collecting 1500 winter, 2003: any later and the seed bed would be lost kilograms of seed from mature alpine ash. During the to grasses and sites would need to be prepared fires, some 4000 hectares of young alpine ash trees were mechanically at great cost. burned in state forests. Trees less than 20 years don’t Collecting the seeds was physically demanding. A team flower or set seed, so seed must be introduced from of 15 professional tree climbers scaled more than 2500 older trees, which naturally shed seed and regenerate trees which were up to 60 metres high. A small part of after a bushfire. the tree’s crown was lopped so that ground crews could Seed was collected near Mansfield and Alexandra, in collect the seed-bearing capsules and take them to a Victoria’s north-east. These areas were chosen because heated kiln for extraction (the trees fully recover from this they contain the closest unburnt alpine ash stands to process). Once seed was extracted, it was directly sown the burnt areas. from a helicopter onto the ash bed left after the fires.
A professional tree climber scales an alpine ash
Performance measures Sustainable forest production and industry development Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Sale of higher quality grade sawlogs (D+) Quantity m3 (’000) 742.7 741 735 706 Reflects the impact of bushfires. Sale of lower quality and small sawlogs (below D grade) Quantity m3 (’000) 138.4 121 120 132 Achieved more than forecast due to some salvage logging operations in East Gippsland post fires and continuing dry weather. Sale of pulpwood – legislative supply agreements Quantity m3 (’000) 1,422.5 1,253 1,122 1,064 Reflects the impact of bushfires. Sale of thinnings Quantity m3 (’000) 18 101 200 129 As above. Area of regrowth forest thinned Quantity hectares 4,300 4,800 5,500 3,500 As above. Area regenerated successfully at first attempt Quality per cent 90 88 90 82 Reflects impact of low rainfall and difficulty regenerating mountain mixed species forest types. Industry restructure targets achieved Quality per cent nm nm 75 95 Reflects high take up rate for exits from the industry. Wood utilisation plans provided to customers Timeliness date Mar 2001 Mar 2002 Mar 2003 May 03 Reflects the impact of bushfires. Total output cost $’000 na 96,400 82,200 70,904 Reflects the re-allocation of resources between outputs. nm – new measure na – not applicable
51
Land Information
Land Information operations Objective Valuation services Certification of the 2002 revaluation is complete, with support sustainable economic To provide accurate, reliable and authoritative information on boundaries, interests, valuations and 62 of 78 councils meeting requirements. This significantly other land-related data for public and private land improved on the 2000 valuation process; 4400 objections growth and community were received as a result of the latest revaluation confidence through land compared to 18,000 in 2000. Councils now revalue Key achievements properties every two years as part of Valuation Best administration and Land dealings Practice administered by Land Victoria. management systems Registration services were provided for 846,650 land title Vicmap property report dealing lodgements and 8500 subdivision plans. There The online Vicmap Property Report was launched in was a six per cent increase in title dealing registrations (for Crown and freehold land) December 2002. A basic property report is free and and a four per cent increase in subdivision registrations. that are accessible, authoritative includes address details, local government areas, state The number of title searches increased by 27 per cent electorates, power and water suppliers and a Melways and coordinated to facilitate to a total of 1.4 million. This was partly due to property reference. The detailed report costs a small fee and market activity and easier access to titles following includes the property area and perimeter, the location land related transactions. completion of the Titles Automation Project. A total of of easements and a diagram of the property showing 75,151 new titles were created, an increase of 35 per cent. dimensions. Since the release of the online report, Two thousand, three hundred and sixty parcels of General 82,500 basic reports have been downloaded. Law land were converted to Torrens titles. Vicmap Property Report is one of a number of products A backlog of land transactions was eliminated in March available online using Vicmap data. Other Vicmap data 2003 and since then, dealings lodged in bulk have been that can be bought in this way include transport, address, completed within 24 hours. hydrographic and elevation data. Vicmap is the government’s fully integrated spatial information Crown land status online infrastructure. Land Victoria has now captured 35 per cent of the state’s Crown land records online, representing 45 per cent of Elevation image of Victoria parishes. Crown Land Status Online aims to capture land A new poster featuring an elevated image of Victoria status information from old paper parish plans to ensure was released in June 2003. The poster shows terrain in that the 70,000 Crown parcels are accurately reflected in three-dimensional form using data from the Vicmap an electronic database called Vicmap Digital. Elevation dataset. The dataset, in conjunction with other Vicmap products, can be used for a range of applications related to land and natural resource management such as fire assessment, fire modelling, parks management, transportation network planning, water and flood modelling, and terrain visualisation. Mark Cleary is a senior surveyor with the Office of Surveyor General Victoria. The office provides specialist land survey services, and plays a key role in maintaining the state’s property boundary system. The office is also involved with Victoria’s major infrastructure projects such as the alpine resorts, Citylink, and the Commonwealth Games facilities. Here, Mark audits a land survey to ensure that the surveyor has complied with regulations. Audits are critical to protecting the integrity of Victoria’s property boundary system. 53 Land Channel • Complete and implement the Site Value Action Plan Online transactions and the ability to buy small packets as recommended in the Land Information Output of Vicmap data were features added to the popular Land Review. Improving site values will increase land tax Channel, a land and property information website. More equity and help resolve disputed valuations. than 3 million web pages were accessed by users over the • Supply Vicmap transport data to Emergency past 12 months. Communications Victoria as part of the expansion of the emergency vehicle dispatch system into Land Exchange rural Victoria. Government funding of $24 million over three years was provided for the Land Exchange, which will allow key land transactions to occur online (see case study Victoria’s first Indigenous place naming on page 55). The vision for the program is to allow all workshops Victorians to buy and sell land, to collate Section 32 Victoria’s Registrar of Geographic Names, and statements, to register and obtain approval for planning Aboriginal Affairs Victoria held eight Indigenous place Mapping the fires applications and to ascertain the status of Crown land naming workshops across Victoria. The workshops were Up-to-date spatial data was critical to effectively in a secure, regulated online environment. designed to increase awareness of the proper use of fighting Victoria’s recent wildfires. Staff played a vital Indigenous place names and to encourage their use in role in capturing information at the fire front and in Future directions recognition of our Indigenous communities. Council place-naming administrators were given guidance the skies, interpreting data, producing maps, recording • Complete the business case for establishing a geospatial on assessing the validity of Indigenous place naming fire weather information and supplying terrain maps. emergency information network as part of a whole-of- proposals; ensuring the proposed name is appropriate; government counter-terrorism proposal. The network Turning raw data into useful information for fire and consulting with interested community groups and would act as a centralised information hub to crews, coordinators and planners, the media and the organisations. A brochure, Naming Victoria’s Landscape, coordinate emergency information and produce a rapid public involved a range of skills. These skills included was also produced. interpreting infra-red photography at the fire front and and strategic response in case of an emergency. plotting the data onto topographic maps; digitising • Complete the Victorian Spatial Information Strategy the topographic maps supplied; and merging new 2003–06 and begin implementation. The strategy aims data with fire boundaries recorded on previous days to to develop a cohesive, whole-of-government approach provide a daily record of the changes to the fire front. to acquiring and applying spatial information. It also The new fire boundaries were plotted over the top aims to develop a fully coordinated whole-of-industry of other maps – terrain and road maps and satellite approach to spatial information, coordinating the images – to give an analysis of the progress of the objectives and activities of the public, private and fires and their potential impact on surrounding areas. academic sectors. Fire data was loaded onto a database that converted • Implement the agreed recommendations from the it into maps of the latest fire front. These maps were Review of Survey and Spatial Information to improve published on the web, where fire operations staff the survey and spatial industry in Victoria and to across Victoria could see the latest fire boundary develop the government’s framework to support information online. the industry. • Release a second Valuation Assistance Package, valued at $1.5 million and administered by Valuer-General Victoria, to see that 12 rural councils receive help to ensure that their valuations for the 2004 Revaluation are of a high standard. A series of workshops were held across the state during 2002–03 to increase Satellite imagery played an important role in helping fire fighters combat awareness of the proper use of Indigenous place names recent bushfires in the north-east 54 Land Exchange program Victorians who deal in land will soon be able to make The program will make electronic financial settlement transactions and access land information via the Internet. and lodgement of common conveyancing transactions The goal of the program is to create a comprehensive possible. It will also extend the range of vendor and secure online environment for land dealings. statement certificates available online and it will streamline part of Victoria’s planning system by Building has begun on the first stage of the $24 million enabling subdivision applications, from initial planning program that promises to improve access and delivery to certification, to be completed online. of land information and transactions throughout Victoria. Partnerships between councils, water authorities, industry representatives and Land Victoria have been critical to the design and development of the first stage, due for release in April 2004.
Land Victoria staff work closely with stakeholders
Performance measures Land information Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Key information requests, registrations and updates Quantity average nm nm 6,570 10,679 Reflects increased activity within (over the counter and on-line) per year (’000) the property market. Accuracy of requests for information supplied Quality per cent nm nm >99 >99 Audited Vicmap digital map base not requiring corrections Quality per cent 92.5 98 95 98 Titles and instruments searches requests available Timeliness per cent 95 95 95 95 within 24 hrs Land dealings registered within 3 weeks Timeliness per cent 82.8 78 70 90 Implementation of VOTS has resulted in more efficient processing of land transactions. New titles (subdivisions) created within 4 weeks Timeliness per cent 83.3 80 70 90 As above. Update transactions for the Vicmap digital map base Timeliness per cent 97 99 95 64 Migration to new Vicmap Property processed within the required timeframes data model slowed maintenance activity. Total output cost $’000 34,900 33,100 82,200 77,797 Reflects re-allocation of corporate overheads as a consequence of machinery of government changes. nm – new measure
55
Sustainability Policy and Programs
Sustainability Policy and Seven new councils were recruited to the Rural Cities Greenhouse policy services for Climate Protection Program. The program aims to Programs operations enhance empower local government in rural and regional Victoria Objective to cut greenhouse gas emissions from their own internal the liveability of communities operations and within their communities. To develop and implement a comprehensive Victorian across Victoria by delivering greenhouse strategy A joint research project with DPI, Options for Victorian Agriculture in a New Climate, built on previous work land-use and infrastructure Key achievements from the government’s climate change research partnership with CSIRO. This project won two awards strategies designed to improve Victorian Greenhouse Strategy for planning excellence from the Planning Institute of Australia (see case study on page 58). the economic and social capacity The Greenhouse Policy Unit oversaw the implementation of actions under the $100 million Victorian Greenhouse Victorian Government membership of the Cooperative of Victoria. Activities include Strategy (VGS). A progress report for the strategy for Research Centre for Greenhouse Accounting was 2002–03 will be published on the government’s negotiated, with membership starting on 1 July 2003. developing and implementing greenhouse website at www.greenhouse.vic.gov.au the Victorian Greenhouse The Community Action Fund, an initiative of the VGS, Future directions provided $900,000 in grants to 24 community-based • Support policy development in the energy sector to Strategy and metropolitan projects that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. deliver on the government’s commitment to reducing The fund is providing $2 million in grants over two years and regional strategies. greenhouse gas emissions from energy supply and use. to help communities build partnerships that will reduce • A secure, efficient and affordable supply of energy greenhouse gases (see case study on page 59). will be maintained. This will occur through the process A consultation paper, Greenhouse Challenge for Energy, already begun with the release of the consultation was released in June 2003. The paper is the first stage paper Greenhouse Challenge for Energy. of a process to consult with stakeholders on the • Start reviewing the VGS in order to develop and development of measures to deliver on the government’s enhance it. greenhouse and energy policy commitments. • Establish a policy framework to underpin actions and The Industry Greenhouse Round-table was launched in strategies to aid adaptation to climate change in Victoria. June 2003. The Round-table process provides a vehicle • Work to raise community awareness and understanding for the government to seek the views of industry on of climate change, including its causes and effects on greenhouse issues relating to Victorian business. the Victorian community, economy and environment. • Contribute to national policy development and A regional partnership was formed between the measures designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions government and the Central Victorian Greenhouse and position Australia to deal with a future carbon- Alliance. Establishing regional partnerships is an aim constrained economy. of the VGS. The partnerships provide a framework, supported by government funding for a regional facilitation officer, to allow local government, Marcia McLennan is a key member of the Melbourne 2030 team. Marcia manages the team’s information and support needs, helping communities and the private sector to work together to develop the strategy, its implementation plans, website and CD, on greenhouse-gas abatement projects. and helping with its launch and distribution. Here, Marcia enjoys the sights and sounds of Brunswick Street, identified by Melbourne 2030 as a major activity centre. 57 The greenhouse effect
Some of the infrared radiation passes through the atmosphere, and some is absorbed and Some solar radiation is re-emitted in all directions by greenhouse gas reflected by the earth and molecules. The effect of this is to warm the the atmosphere. earth's surface and the lower atmosphere.
Some radiation passes through the clear atmosphere. Infrared radiation is emitted Most radiation is from the earth's surface. absorbed by the earth's surface and warms it.
Researching climate change Based on the report’s findings, a number of As part of the VGS, DSE established a research partnership complementary studies were done as part of the research with CSIRO’s Atmospheric Research Division. The project partnership and together with other government aimed to forecast likely changes to future temperature and researchers. These studies included: rainfall patterns in Victoria; to examine the effects of such • The impact of climate change on snow conditions changes on areas such as agriculture and biodiversity; and in Victoria. The study improves understanding of the to identify ways to adapt to these changes. impacts of past and future climate change on natural In May 2002, the research partnership’s report, Climate snow cover and assesses the role of snowmaking to Change in Victoria, was published. The report forecasts adapt to projected changes in snow conditions. This temperature and rainfall patterns in the state to 2030 information is relevant for the future management and 2070. of ski resorts and sites of biological significance. Stakeholder involvement during the course of the Its key findings include: project helped to ensure that the information is • Victoria is likely to be 0.7 to 5.0ºC warmer by 2070 practical; the study’s findings have been considered compared to 1990. in the preparation of the Alpine Resorts 2020 Draft • The frequency of extreme maximum temperatures Strategy and by individual ski resorts. will increase, with up to 3.5 times more hot days • Options for Victorian Agriculture: Impacts, Assessment in some areas of the state. and Tools. This study gives a regional analysis of • Less rain is likely to fall. In most regions, changes climate change effects on cool climate grapes, blue gum in annual rainfall ranging from -25 per cent to plantations and high yield pasture areas in Gippsland, +9 per cent are projected. and on spring wheat in the Mallee and Wimmera. It considers changing land and climate conditions that will • Warmer conditions will lead to increased evaporation affect the viability of these crops in the future, making which, combined with reduced rainfall, is likely to it an important contribution to policy development and increase moisture stress. adaptation needs in the agricultural sector.
58 Community Action Fund The VGS commits the government to forming partnerships projects spread across the state is available at with local government and the community to deliver www.greenhouse.vic.gov.au greenhouse abatement programs tailored to meet the Projects supported by the CAF include community- needs of and reflect the strengths of local communities. based actions to improve household energy efficiency; The Community Action Fund (CAF) is one of the key promotion of the use of renewable energy; provision actions of the VGS. The fund is designed to provide of training for council officers in energy audit services dollar-for-dollar grants to community partnership projects to householders; support for small business to reduce that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In its first round, energy use and greenhouse gas emissions; promotion CAF called for and received 54 applications for support. of cycling and car-pooling as a means of travelling to Following assessment of these applications by an work; and the showcasing of ways to reduce greenhouse independent panel, 24 projects were awarded a share gas emissions from agricultural activities. in more than $900,000 in grants. A list of successful A second CAF funding round will be announced next year.
The CAF is helping communities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Performance measures Greenhouse policy services Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Major policy papers, strategy reviews or research papers Quantity number nm 6 5 7 completed Ministerial correspondence and general or specific Quantity number nm 108 220 188 Rate of Ministerial correspondence Ministerial briefings has continued to be slightly lower than expected. Response to public inquiries Quantity number nm 435 180 410 Greater level of inquiries experienced. Ministerial endorsement and support for key stages of Quality per cent nm 100 95 100 the development, review and implementation of Victorian Greenhouse Strategy Responses to Ministerial correspondence delivered within Timeliness per cent nm 80 80 67.49 Reflects the impact of the additional agreed timelines public inquiries received. Ad hoc policy advice delivered as required with initial Timeliness per cent nm 100 95 96.25 advice and estimated date of completion within two working days Other key deliverables and projects managed on time – Timeliness per cent nm 90 90 97.5 in line with planned and agreed project timetables Total output cost $’000 na 15,000 32,300 29,933 Reflects delays in implementing the Greenhouse Strategy caused by drought conditions. nm – new measure na – not applicable 59 • An implementation reference group was created Metropolitan development to give the government independent advice on strategies implementing the strategy. • A $5.6 million Local Government Assistance Fund was formed to support councils implement the strategy. Objective This includes $100,000 for each metropolitan council, Produce and implement land use and transport and $2.5 million funding in targeted grants for projects strategies for metropolitan Melbourne by working in that address key priorities such as structure planning partnership with government, development agencies for activity centres and development in growth areas. and the community • The Urban Development Program was set up to guarantee a continuous supply of affordable land and Key achievements to closely monitor supply and demand for residential and industrial land (see case study on this page). Melbourne 2030 • Preparation was begun to revise growth area plans Urban Development Program Melbourne 2030: planning for sustainable growth is an for Melbourne growth areas, starting with Werribee and Cranbourne–Pakenham. Technical working groups Creating the Urban Development Program was a integrated 30-year land use and transport strategy to were established in each area. major initiative of Melbourne 2030. Its goal is to manage growth and change across the metropolitan region. It is based on nine key directions and is supported maintain adequate land supply and infrastructure Urban and regional research to meet Melbourne’s future residential and industrial by a five-year action plan for implementation. needs. The program monitors the stock of suitable The strategy was launched by the government in October DSE conducts research across a range of topics including broad hectare land on Melbourne’s fringe and 2002 following three years of research, analysis and biodiversity and conservation, forests, population, potential redevelopment sites in established urban consultation with thousands of Victorians. The first round housing, land development and employment. Data from areas. It assesses this stock against 15-year projections of public consultation took place in 2000 and included the Australian Bureau of Statistics 2001 census forms an of housing and industrial land demand and identifies 12 public forums throughout metropolitan Melbourne important basis for DSE’s research into the development infrastructure and servicing needs. and five in major regional centres. The second round trends and characteristics of Victoria’s communities. Research underpins the creation of policies such as Seven forums attended by up to 100 representatives of public consultation took place in 2001 and more than 1000 Victorians took part at similar locations. Melbourne 2030. Census data also informs population from the development industry, councils and projections prepared by DSE. infrastructure agencies were held around the Immediately after the release of Melbourne 2030, the metropolitan area and in Geelong. They provided government asked for public comment from all these Research publications launched in the past 12 months information on the status of land supply, future groups on how the strategy can be put into practice. include Melbourne in Fact and Regional Victoria in Fact. demand and infrastructure needs. The forums Nearly 1500 organisations and individuals had their say These reports used data from the 2001 census to show significantly improved information available to on how the strategy’s initiatives should be put into action. how Victoria’s population is changing. They show that government, councils, public utilities and the the Victorian population is growing and, like in many The key aims of the strategy include concentrating urban development industry, and they have received strong other parts of Australia, it is growing older. expansion into growth areas that are served by high- endorsement from stakeholders. A report based on capacity public transport, and planning a more efficient Other analysis revealed that Victoria’s average annual the results of the forums was released in August 2003. and sustainable pattern of development. population growth rate nearly doubled – to 1.1 per cent – between the 1996 and 2001 censuses. This pattern was Actions since the launch include the following: clear in Melbourne and in much of regional Victoria, • Legislation was passed in June 2003 to protect where the population grew four times faster between Melbourne’s 12 green wedges from residential 1996 and 2001 than between 1991 and 1996. Growth encroachment, including stricter planning controls is reflected in the buoyant housing market in Melbourne (see case study on page 61). and in regional centres.
Melbourne 2030 was released in October 2002 60 Research publications are available in hardcopy from Future directions Protecting our green wedges Information Victoria and from the website In June, in a world first, the Victorian Parliament gave www.dse.vic.gov.au/research • Release Melbourne 2030 Submissions Analysis Report and Implementation Program in late 2003. legal protection to Melbourne’s 12 green wedges. Green Growth (%) wedges are areas on Melbourne’s fringe with economic, • Assess applications for Local Government Assistance environmental or social significance. Colloquially, they’re 1.6 Fund and allocate funds early in 2003–04. known as Melbourne’s ‘lungs’. They were first identified • Establish Committees for Smart Growth to develop in the 1970s and span 17 municipalities. Their protection 1.4 new growth area plans for the growth areas in the was one of the strongest messages from the community cities of Wyndham, Casey, Cardinia, Melton, Hume during public consultation for Melbourne 2030. 1.2 and Whittlesea. • Establish regional housing working groups with local The Planning and Environment (Metropolitan Green 1.0 councils to resolve how housing needs can be met in Wedges Protection) Act 2003 gives Melbourne’s green response to the future demand for housing. wedges clear boundaries and legal protection from inappropriate development. Previously there was never 0.8 • Develop higher density design guidelines to encourage a consistent, ironclad approach to protecting these a high standard of urban design and amenity in new important areas. For instance, the Yarra Valley and 0.6 residential developments that are outside the scope Dandenong Ranges Green Wedge will protect the of existing ResCode provisions. landscapes and sensitive environmental elements in these 0.4 • Develop the Sustainable Neighbourhoods Code areas that are also valued for their agricultural potential to update residential subdivision provisions in and tourist attractions. In terms of economic importance, 0.2 planning schemes. the Sunbury Green Wedge will prevent development • Develop pilot green wedge management plans with occurring under flight paths to Melbourne Airport, 0.0 measures to safeguard valuable conservation areas, thereby protecting its curfew-free status. 1971– 1976– 1981– 1986– 1991– 1996– resources and productive rural pursuits. 1976 1981 1986 1991 1996 2001 The legislation recognises the Urban Growth Boundary – • Establish joint planning processes with local councils a line along Melbourne’s fringe that will prevent to develop structure plans for activity centres, and Melbourne inappropriate development from eating into the undertake activity centre planning system improvements. Regional Victoria green wedges. • Continue refining the Urban Development Program. Average annual population growth rates at five year intervals, Melbourne and regional Victoria, 1971–2001
Performance measures Metropolitan development strategies Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Long term metropolitan land use and transport strategy Quantity number na na 1 1 Projects completed against agreed plans and timeframes Quality per cent na na 100 100 Long term metropolitan land use and transport strategy Timeliness date na na Sep 2002 Complete draft released Total output cost $’000 na na na 2,407 Not applicable due to machinery of government changes. na – not applicable
61 Regional and rural strategies Great Ocean Road Region Strategy Preparation of the draft Great Ocean Road Region Strategy was nearly completed. The strategy covers the region Objective from Torquay to Warrnambool and between the Princes To produce land use and transport strategies for regional Highway and the coast. and rural Victoria by working in partnership with The strategy’s primary focus is on transport and land-use government, development agencies and the community planning for managing both coastal and inland growth. It will complement other relevant plans such as catchment Key achievements management strategies and the Victorian Coastal Strategy. Bendigo and Ballarat regional action plans In October 2002, an integrated access study was completed for the Great Ocean Road Region Strategy, DSE and local councils have achieved substantial progress a 20-year plan to ensure that there is a sustainable future through working together to prepare the Bendigo and for the irreplaceable natural assets of the region. The Ballarat regional action plans. The plans, which centre study aimed to address future access requirements on the corridors between Melbourne, Ballarat and Bendigo, to, from and within the Great Ocean Road region, and will make recommendations for action by government found that there is a clear need to encourage the use and councils to manage and promote growth and to of alternative roads to access the coast, and to address deliver improved services across the regions. possible improvements to public transport and to cycling Initial consultation with councils and communities and walking tracks. has identified the following shared goals for the A landscape character study is being conducted as part regions, including: of the strategy’s development (see case study on page 63). • to develop the ability to retain and attract sustainable investment, employment and tourism Future directions • to maintain a distinct identity and liveability whilst • Complete the Bendigo and Ballarat regional action protecting and enhancing the natural environment plans in 2003–04. • to plan for development pressures that may arise • Release the draft Great Ocean Road Region Strategy from road and rail improvements which reduce travel for public comment in 2003. times to Melbourne • to plan for and accommodate population growth and change. In April and May 2003, a series of workshops was attended by council members and staff. Feedback from the workshops will help DSE to finalise the action plans by next year.
Ballarat Town Hall. The Bendigo and Ballarat regional action plans will provide long-term blueprints for managing and promoting growth across the regions 62 Great Ocean Road Region landscape character study The Great Ocean Road Region occupies some 6000 A landscape character study is being completed for square kilometres of south-west Victoria, stretching the Great Ocean Road Region Strategy. Its purpose is from Torquay in the east to Warrnambool in the west, to assess the capacity of different types of landscape and northward to the Princes Highway. It takes in to accommodate development. The study focuses on exquisite coastal scenery, mountains and farmland, landscape character from a visual perspective rather than thriving country towns, rainforests and historical relics. in terms of heritage or environmental values. It assesses It is an internationally significant tourism icon that a landscape’s visual features and considers, for example, attracts thousands of visitors who come to experience the scarcity of a landscape type, whether a landscape is the dramatic coastal and hinterland landscapes. under pressure and the number of visitors to that area. The study then considers whether a significant landscape At the same time, more and more people want to live is given enough protection through the planning system. near this coast. Tourists need facilities and It provides a guide to the way development could be accommodation, while other people are seeking land for accommodated in different landscapes. This does not homes and holiday houses. The landscape of the Great mean that one type of land use will be favoured over Ocean Road region underpins its growth and prosperity. another; planning policies and controls will be drafted Its preservation is the key to the sustainable development to apply to any form of future development. of the region and the protection of its environment. Visitor numbers and residential growth are placing The study is being undertaken with input from local pressure on some of the landscape qualities that attract councils and state government agencies and will be people to the area. released for public consultation concurrently with the draft Great Ocean Road Region Strategy.
The Great Ocean Road
Performance measures Regional and rural strategies Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Regional land use and transport strategies Quantity number na na 3 3 Projects completed against agreed plans and timeframes Quality per cent na na 100 100 Regional transport and land use strategies commenced Timeliness date na na Dec 2002 Complete Total output cost $’000 na na na 982 Not applicable due to machinery of government changes. na – not applicable
63
Sustainable Cities and Regions
Sustainable Cities and Regions concluded its assessment of Basslink under the Environmental strategies Environment Effects Act 1978, supporting the operations provide a world-class and initiatives recommendations of the panel to allow the project to proceed. planning system that supports Objectives A land-based cable connection will run between Ninety sustainable development across Mile Beach and the Loy Yang Terminal Station near To advise on and review environmental assessment Traralgon, with a Tasmanian connection at the George Victoria in a way that is fair, policies and legislation, and deliver a state information Town substation. service for local government, state agencies, industry transparent, accountable and and the private sector The project, whose adopted route minimises impacts on biodiversity, landscape and heritage values, was then cost effective and that gives approved under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 Key achievements and the Coastal Management Act 1995. Approval included certainty to users. Urban design, Environment assessment reform a requirement for the proponent, Basslink Pty Ltd, to adopt a strict environmental management plan. Basslink complied heritage and environmental The government aims to improve the efficiency, with this condition in June 2003 and the project has now transparency and accountability of environment been approved, with conditions, by all three governments. assessment services are assessment procedures, and to more effectively contribute Basslink is moving forward with construction. to sustainable development, by reviewing environment supported, as is regulation assessment procedures under the Environment Effects Portland wind energy project Act 1978. of residential, commercial and In August 2002, the government released its assessment In July 2002, an expert advisory committee was appointed of the Portland wind energy project under the industrial developments in to consider public submissions and to hold public Environment Effects Act 1978. The project, located in hearings on draft reforms. The draft reforms were south-west Victoria, is Australia’s largest wind energy partnership with communities, outlined in an issues and options paper released for project and involves 120 turbines at the four sites of public comment. They involve the introduction of a Yambuk, Cape Sir William Grant, Cape Nelson and Cape local councils and businesses. number of options for assessing levels of environmental Bridgewater. The assessment supported the project for risk as an alternative to the current, inefficient, its strong contribution to renewable energy production one-size-fits-all approach to environmental assessment. and greenhouse abatement, while recommending some modifications to minimise environmental impacts. The The advisory committee submitted its report in December assessment followed an inquiry by an independent panel and the department is in the process of finalising the and the exhibition of an environment effects statement reforms. Their implementation is expected to start in by the proponent, Pacific Hydro Ltd. late 2003. In April 2003, after refining its proposal to respond to Basslink the government’s assessment, including the altering of Basslink is a major $500 million energy initiative that will turbine layouts to enhance energy performance, Pacific allow the trade of electricity to occur between Tasmania Hydro sought planning approval. The government and the mainland, and allow Tasmania to enter the approved amendments to the Glenelg and Moyne Mandy Elliott is an environment project officer, based in the planning schemes to allow the project to proceed South West Region. Mandy is part of a team that manages the national electricity market. In July 2002, the Basslink Joint environmental assessment process for major projects such as Advisory Panel, appointed by the Victorian, Tasmanian (see case study on page 71). wind farms. Mandy is pictured in front of Australia’s oldest and Commonwealth governments, submitted its final grid-connected wind turbine at the Black Rock sewage treatment facility, near Geelong. report on the project, and in September the government 65 Future directions Sustainable built environments DSE has formed a reference group to advise on Promoting sustainable development is a key theme in the sustainability requirements in the planning system. The • Develop the Sustainability for the Built Environment group consists of experts from government and industry initiative to give the planning and development industry government’s broad vision for the future as outlined in its Growing Victoria Together statement. Sustainability was and peak bodies from the planning, building, architecture a consistent approach to applying new sustainability and construction professions. criteria to the built environment. This will give the also a key plank of the government’s re-election platform, growing number of councils that are seeking to and underpins long-term planning for the metropolitan Ultimately the project may identify changes to the law introduce sustainability requirements for development area in Melbourne 2030. to give effect to the integrated decision-making processes approvals a common, agreed method (see case study). The Sustainability for the Built Environment project that may be required if sustainability objectives are to be achieved. Anticipated outcomes from the initiative include: • Introduce the required statutory measures for will deliver a more consistent approach to sustainable environment assessment reform, supporting guidelines development. It will provide certainty for local • a ‘sustainability framework’ that provides consistency and administrative systems, and commence information government and the development industry by bringing and certainty in the development approvals process. and training programs for stakeholder groups. a more consistent approach to introducing ‘green’ The framework is expected to be based on best practice • Review information prepared by Pacific Hydro to meet requirements through the development approval process. approaches, targets and performance measurement approval conditions for the Portland wind energy It will establish a common framework for achieving tools for the planning system. project. The information must include an environmental sustainable outcomes such as water conservation, • practical guidance through simple, user-friendly management plan to re-establish native vegetation and recycling and energy efficiency. documents, such as practice notes, for all councils and protect the habitats of species such as the orange- developers using the planning and building systems. bellied parrot.
Performance measures Environmental strategies and initiatives Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Production of guidelines for environmental assessment Quantity number na na 1 0 Reform of the environment under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 and assessment system is now more Environment Effects Act 1978 broad ranging. Guidelines completed within agreed plans and timeframes Quality date na na Jun 2003 0 As above. Projects delivered in accordance with agreed scope Quality per cent na na 100 0 As above. and standards Environment Effects Act 1978 guidelines issued Timeliness date na na Jun 2003 0 As above. Programmed works completed within agreed timeframes Timeliness per cent na na 100 0 As above. Total output cost $’000 na na na 1,701 Not applicable due to machinery of government changes. na – not applicable
66 Heritage conservation Documenting our heritage The second release of the Hermes database was successfully implemented. The database is designed to Objective accommodate listings of all state and local heritage places To help local and state government agencies meet their in Victoria. It features innovative technology to ensure heritage obligations, to promote good heritage asset that it can be accessed from outside DSE whilst continuing management and to implement the Heritage Act 1995 to provide adequate security to data. The project has been essential to helping local councils document heritage Key achievements places in a consistent way. Public grants Future directions During the year, funding under the $4 million Public • Amend the Heritage Act 1995 to improve Heritage Program was allocated for the urgent repair enforcement capabilities. and restoration of important historic places. More than • Adopt the action plan for the Victorian Heritage Public Heritage Program $3 million in capital works grants was awarded to Strategy and begin preparing a new strategy for 57 heritage places around Victoria. Many of the projects 2005–10. In 2000–01, the Lake Tyers Aboriginal Trust received were important to the ongoing social and economic • Reinforce the community focus of the Victorian a $70,000 grant from the Public Heritage Program sustainability of places outside the metropolitan area Heritage Program. to carry out vital restoration works to the Lake Tyers (see case study on this page). church. The church has been seen as the centrepiece of the Lake Tyers community for a very long time. Heritage advisory grants were given to 60 local councils to advise owners, designers and tradespeople on how The project was so successful and was seen as such to conserve historic buildings, parks, gardens and a positive step that a further $80,000 was granted monuments. Ten councils also received assistance to the Lake Tyers Trust during the year to undertake to start or continue cultural heritage studies. restoration and refurbishment works at the former hospital and mortuary. World heritage nomination Like the church project, it is expected that the The Royal Exhibition Building was nominated for world work on the hospital and mortuary will provide heritage listing. The nomination was achieved in opportunities for local input. The trust plans to use partnership with the Commonwealth’s Environment the refurbished building as a community centre with Australia and Museum Victoria. The World Heritage room for consulting suites adjacent to the existing Committee regarded the nomination as one of the best health centre. sets of documentation yet received. A final decision on the listing is expected in June 2004.
Heritage Charter The government’s Heritage Charter, which sets out a number of policies and guidelines for those managing Victorian government heritage assets, was completed. Its formal adoption by the government is expected shortly.
The Lake Tyers church, restored to its original condition with funding from the Public Heritage Program 67 Performance measures Heritage conservation Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Heritage places assessed for Heritage Register Quantity number na na 200 61 Reflects greater level of research required to assess places for register, and a major review of register. Heritage certificates issued Quantity number na na 4,500 5,178 Reflects greater awareness of the number of places subject to the Heritage Act 1995. Heritage permits and consents issued Quantity number na na 575 489 Reflects reduced development pressure and changes to permit processes. Non-contested heritage place listings Quality per cent na na 90 92 Appeals against permits and consents Quality per cent na na <5 4 Public owned heritage restoration projects completed Timeliness per cent na na 100 100 against agreed budgets and timeframes Total output cost $’000 na na na 8,522 Not applicable due to machinery of government changes. na – not applicable Planning operations and The new provisions protect green wedges from uses that Government Land Monitor diminish their agricultural, environmental, recreational, The Government Land Monitor, which provides environmental assessment landscape or natural resource values. government with an assurance of accountability and integrity in all its land transactions, monitored 809 Development approvals Objective transactions with a total value of $571 million. It An amendment to the City of Melbourne’s planning continued to monitor government property transactions To provide reliable advice and support to all users of the scheme was approved. It achieves a balance on building in accordance with the policy on purchase, compulsory land use planning system, including support services to height controls for residential and other areas across acquisition and sale of land. state and local government for statutory planning functions the municipality. The government approved the Melbourne Future directions Key achievements Docklands–Victoria Harbour outline development plan, • Improve the efficiency of the development approvals and major amendments to it were successfully negotiated. system. Mounting pressure has been placed on the Strict planning rules for green wedges The $1.8 billion, 30-hectare project is being developed system through a persistently strong property market In June 2003, stronger planning guidelines were put by Lend Lease over a 15-year period, creating up to and through new strategic planning initiatives such as in place to protect Melbourne’s 12 green wedges from 20,000 jobs. Melbourne 2030. New demands for housing strategies, inappropriate development. The guidelines, called Core A final draft of an environmental management overlay growth area plans, activity centre structure plans and Planning Provisions, were incorporated into the planning for landslip was agreed to by alpine resort stakeholders. rural strategies add to the pressures placed on the schemes of the 17 councils with part of a green wedge The overlay will ensure that a geo-technical engineer tools and available resources of the planning system. in their municipality. Amendments were also made assesses new alpine resort buildings and works for risk to the Planning and Environment Act 1987 to further of landslide. increase planning protection.
68 Glen Eira pre-lodgement certification Neighbours to development sites supported the process The Yolla gas field lies in Bass Strait, halfway between Large numbers of poorly prepared applications cause and the resource drain on council officers was reduced. Tasmania and Victoria. The project will take gas ashore significant delays in the planning permit approval process. The additional cost of certification – around $1500 – was via a sub-sea pipeline running from the production wells A pilot project with the City of Glen Eira aimed to cut low compared to the value of the time saved and the cost to a shore crossing near Kilcunda, on the rugged coastline delays by testing a new approach whereby planning of the projects. between Phillip Island and Wonthaggi. The gas will be treated at a gas processing plant near Lang Lang in east Gippsland. permit applications were certified as complete and The City of Glen Eira has now made pre-lodgement of a good standard prior to being lodged. certification a permanent process and the government BassGas will help meet an expected doubling of gas Pre-lodgement certification means that a professional has released a kit promoting its adoption by other demand in south-east Australia over the next 15 years, planner has checked the application to ensure it is councils across Victoria. eventually supplying around 10 per cent of Victoria’s complete, that immediate site neighbours to the proposed natural gas needs. In addition to the production of sales BassGas development have been informed about the application, gas, the proposal includes the production of liquefied and that the application is of a suitable standard to allow In September 2002, the $400 million BassGas project, petroleum gas and condensate (light oil), with the start it to be immediately advertised by council. Pre-lodgement which will develop the gas resources of the Yolla gas of production proposed for 2004. certification does not imply, however, that council would field, was given conditional planning approval by the Together with the development of other offshore gas ultimately grant a permit. government. Assessment of the project, coordinated by the resources near Orbost and near Port Campbell, the Victorian and Commonwealth governments, recommended The pilot was highly successful, revealing that significant development of the BassGas resource will increase the that the project proceed generally as described in the security and efficiency of gas supply to south-east Australia. reductions in processing time – up to 65 per cent – could environment effects statement, subject to a range of be made. Following pre-lodgement certification, the measures to protect the environment and the community. likelihood of approval increased by 19 per cent.
Performance measures Planning operations and environmental assessment Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Planning permits issued Quantity number na na 100 109 Amendments determined Quantity number na na 350 323 Estimate not always accurate due to amendments being generated by external parties. Property transactions assessed Quantity number na na 700 809 Reflects substantial governement acquisition of properties including the Craigieburn Bypass. Planning certificates issued Quantity number na na 60,000 47,916 Reflects lower level of market activity than expected. Briefings, assessments and issues Quantity number na na 1,200 1,220 Environment effects assessments Quantity number na na 6 10 Reflects stronger economic activity and resultant development proposals. Property transactions comply with government Quality per cent na na 100 100 policy guidelines Accuracy of planning certificates Quality per cent na na 100 100 Permits issued within statutory timelines Timeliness per cent na na 98 98 Planning certificates issued within three days Timeliness per cent na na 98 98 Total output cost $’000 na na na 8,361 Not applicable due to machinery of government changes. 69 na – not applicable Planning system development Development contributions In November 2002, following a comprehensive review and consultation process, a new development Objective contributions system for Victoria was announced. To enhance sustainability in land use and development Development contributions are payments or in-kind through the continuous improvement of the planning works provided by developers towards the supply of system, including appropriate legislative, policy and infrastructure required to meet the future needs of statutory instruments a particular community, of which the development forms a part. Key achievements The new system will allow residents of new suburbs to have earlier access to basic services such as maternal Planning and Environment (Metropolitan and child health centres. The first stage of the reforms Green Wedge Protection) Act 2003 was announced in June 2003. It includes new online The Planning and Environment (Metropolitan Green guidelines that offer councils a step-by-step guide to Wedge Protection) Act 2003 came into effect on preparing development contributions plans; a Ministerial 12 June 2003, setting special procedures for making Direction that prompts the early provision of essential planning scheme amendments that may affect green services; and a Building Practice Note to ensure that wedges. To support the passing of the Act, the building permits are not issued before funds are collected. department drafted instructions and supporting Second-stage reforms will require legislative change to materials and settled details regarding the draft improve the administrative framework for development implementation plans for Melbourne 2030. contributions plans and permit conditions. Wind farm guidelines Future directions In October 2002, wind farm guidelines were incorporated into all planning schemes to help manage the continued • Develop the Sustainable Neighbourhoods Code, a expansion of wind farms while protecting sensitive Melbourne 2030 initiative to deliver more liveable environments. Local councils can use the guidelines to and sustainable new communities on the metropolitan manage the planning issues surrounding new wind energy fringe. Subdivision provisions are being reviewed facilities with a capacity under 30 megawatts. Due to the to promote compact neighbourhoods where significance of wind energy facilities and to champion neighbourhood centres support local services and this emerging industry, the Minister for Planning is facilities. Environmentally friendly development will responsible for assessing all proposals with a capacity include improved energy efficiency, water conservation equal to or greater than 30 megawatts. and local management of stormwater. A diversity of lot sizes will meet the range of community housing needs. The guidelines reflect the government’s support for wind energy development as a way to help secure a sustainable energy supply for current and future generations. They provide a renewable energy policy statement, and a clear planning process with appropriate assessment criteria, background information and contacts. Local councils and key stakeholders were consulted as part of their development and implementation.
A family plays in a park close to home. Development contributions are important to coordinating installation of infrastructure and services, such as open space and 70 maternal and child health centres, in new development areas Portland wind energy project The Portland project is the largest approved wind energy Its approval is consistent with the government’s project in Australia (see also page 65). The project, led by wind farm guidelines, Policy and Planning Guidelines Pacific Hydro Ltd, involves construction of 120 turbines for Development of Wind Energy Facilities in Victoria, at Cape Nelson, Cape Bridgewater, Cape Sir William Grant which were introduced into all planning schemes in and near Yambuk. The turbines will have a combined October 2002. capacity of 180 megawatts and a capital value of about The approval of the project followed a lengthy $300 million. environmental effects process. An environment effects Danish manufacturer, NEG Micon, has confirmed statement and planning permit applications were that it will establish a world-leading turbine blade exhibited in late 2001, and over 500 submissions were manufacturing plant at Portland. Local manufacturing received; most were supportive of the proposal. In of wind turbine components will bring substantial August 2002, Victoria gave planning approval to the regional economic benefits. project and two months later the Commonwealth lent its support. In April 2003, amendments were approved The project’s approval requires the proponent to meet to the Glenelg and Moyne planning schemes to allow strict conditions for the protection of residential amenity, the project to proceed. cultural heritage and significant flora and fauna.
Wind farms in Victoria contribute to the growth of the renewable energy industry
Performance measures Planning system development Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Major development approvals facilitated Quantity number na na 5 5 Planning practice notes prepared Quantity number na na 4 5 Extra practice note prepared to support ResCode. User satisfaction with training and development under Quality per cent na na 75 75 the PLANET program Approved amendments gazetted within eight working Timeliness per cent na na 100 100 days of approval Review of rural zones completed Timeliness date na na Dec 2002 Complete Total output cost $’000 na na na 2,419 Not applicable due to machinery of government changes. na – not applicable
71 The past 12 months saw a number of projects receiving Regional and urban amenity government funding, including the Sandridge Bridge initiatives (see case study on page 73), Queensbridge Square and a pedestrian link between Birrarung Marr and the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Objectives To facilitate transit-orientated developments and major Transit Cities civic projects and to provide specialist urban design Transit Cities is a major government initiative that aims advice across Victoria to create safe, vibrant and accessible communities that are centred on major public transport. The initiative Key achievements involves partnerships with local councils, Vic Urban, Victoria Police, transport operators and private investors, Area Improvement Program that all have a major role in creating these communities. In January 2003, the government announced $260,000 In the past 12 months, eight new transit cities were Pride of Place at Lakes Entrance in second-round funding under the Area Improvement announced, bringing the total number of centres The government’s Pride of Place program has awarded Program. This program aims to help rural communities to 13. Planning studies to establish a vision for new two grants to the East Gippsland Shire Council for develop sustainable solutions to land-use and development were completed at Dandenong, Frankston, Lakes Entrance. A $25,000 grant established an infrastructure issues. Four projects each received Ringwood, Box Hill, Ballarat and Geelong, and were urban design framework and $235,000 went towards $65,000 for projects in the shires of Hepburn, Southern begun at Bendigo, Latrobe Valley, Footscray, Epping, construction of a recreational pathway identified in Grampians, Golden Plains and Cardinia. The Southern Broadmeadows, Sydenham and Werribee. The master the framework. Grampians Shire, for instance, will use the funding to plans will restructure these centres by focusing higher The urban design framework was developed in develop a strategy to reduce the amount of pollutants density, mixed-use development in appropriate locations consultation with local residents and businesses, and flowing into the Grange Burn catchment and into Lake around key transport nodes. Hamilton, which regularly experiences outbreaks of provides a strategy to promote tourism, to strengthen Since Transit Cities began in 2001, these centres have blue-green algae. recreation, cultural and environmental assets, and to attracted investment of nearly $1 billion. For example, guide future development. The new funding builds on $128,000 allocated in the the Sydenham Transit City has attracted $200 million It identified construction of the Lakes first round to the communities of Flowerdale and from the Queensland Investment Corporation to extend Entrance–Cunninghame Circuit Heritage Walk, a scenic Korumburra. The Korumburra project aims to address the Watergardens shopping centre. A new town centre, 8 kilometre path leading visitors to the waterfront. stormwater damage and has enlisted the support of the comprising a main street lined with shops and cafes, Program funding for its completion has transformed South Gippsland Shire Council, local authorities and the an entertainment plaza and a learning centre, will bridge a formerly neglected area into one of the town’s most community to develop practical solutions to stormwater. the gap between the existing shopping centre and the visited and attractive public places. recently completed railway station. Signs along the pathway give insight into local history Yarra Plan and heritage and have helped develop environmental Yarra Plan is a long-term vision for Melbourne as a awareness. Native bushland is protected by the riverside city where sustainable development is used creation of clear access points to the foreshore. to create a vibrant waterfront for recreation, tourism, The pathway has received international recognition and commercial and residential activity. It identifies by its inclusion in ‘Aussiewalk’ tours as one leg of 41 projects covering five precincts: Docklands, Northbank, a series of walks throughout Australia. The project Southbank, the sports and entertainment area, and inner improves the amenity and recreation facilities for the city parklands. This area will become an integrated system local community and promotes the tourism potential of parks, gardens, sporting venues, entertainment facilities, of Lakes Entrance. cafes, restaurants and public spaces.
Local community members enjoying the new Cunninghame Circuit Heritage Walk. Photo: Colac Herald 72 Pride of Place Future directions Yarra Plan: Queensbridge Precinct The $7.6 million two-year Pride of Place program, which • Complete master plans for 13 Transit Cities. The design concept for the $14.5 million Queensbridge includes a $2 million contribution from the Community Precinct was completed and funding arrangements are • Complete business cases to support key capital Support Fund, offers urban design grants for projects that being finalised with the City of Melbourne. One of the Yarra works identified in the Yarra Plan. revitalise urban, regional and rural centres. It funds local Plan’s 41 projects, the Queensbridge Precinct is an urban councils and alpine resort management boards to create • Commence capital works to the Queensbridge Precinct. regeneration project involving three parts: the refurbishment urban design frameworks and to advise on urban design • Announce Pride of Place grants for 2003–04. of Sandridge Bridge; the construction of Queensbridge principles, and co-funds capital works with grant recipients Square; and the upgrade of nearby Northbank. (see case study on page 72). When complete, the precinct will bring diverse benefits To support the program, a revised practice note that to Melbourne. Sandridge Bridge is a unique heritage asset sets guidelines for preparing urban design frameworks and will be restored as a walking and cycling link between was published in September 2002. Following the latest the north and south banks. The Northbank upgrade will offer of grants, a record 220 applications were received. provide the missing link in the Northbank trail and In June 2003, a series of regional information forums Queensbridge Square will be an attractive open space for began to help councils develop a better understanding community and cultural events on Southbank Promenade. of urban design principles and to develop projects Preliminary works of site establishment for Sandridge under the program. Bridge are complete and contracts for second stage works An evaluation of the Pride of Place program began in have been awarded. June 2003.
Performance measures Regional and urban amenity initiatives Unit of measure Actual Actual Published Actual Reason for variation 2000–01 2001–02 target 2002–03 2002–03 Area improvement projects Quantity number na na 3 4 Extra project funded from AIP budget. Transit orientated development projects facilitated Quantity number na na 5 13 Extra Transit Cities projects were announced. Pride of Place projects facilitated Quantity number na na 25 0 Extra funding over two years to be announced in a single round in 2003–04. Stakeholder satisfaction with Pride of Place projects Quality per cent na na na 0 Stakeholder satisfaction surveys are conducted at the conclusion of each Pride of Place program cycle. Pride of Place projects completed against agreed budgets Timeliness per cent na na 95 0 Extra funding over two years to be and timeframes announced in a single round in 2003–04. Area improvement (five) projects proposed Timeliness date na na Jun 2003 Complete Total output cost $’000 na na na 3,654 Not applicable due to machinery of government changes. na – not applicable 73
DEPARTMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY AND ENVIRONMENT ORGANISATIONAL PERFORMANCE
Contents Corporate governance 76 Ministerial support 78 Business cycle 78 Information, communication and knowledge 78 Service delivery 81 Environmental performance 82 Social performance 84 People performance 86
75 During the year, the following members of the former Corporate governance NRE executive moved to other organisations. DSE’s corporate governance structure provides Elizabeth O’Keeffe joined the National Gallery of Victoria for efficient decision-making, appropriate resource in August 2002. allocation and strategic planning to achieve government Geoff Vincent returned to Parks Victoria in October 2002. outcomes. Corporate governance focuses on leadership, performance and accountability, productivity Michonne van Rees began a secondment with Parks improvements and staff wellbeing. Victoria in November 2002.
Secretary
EPA Victoria Melbourne Water Building Commission Policy & Strategy DSE Executive Audit Committee Parks Victoria Executive Committee Committee SEAV
Program Management Business Management Organisational Committee Committee Development Committee
Project Review Committee
Corporate governance structure
Secretary Members: Professor Lyndsay Neilson, Chair The Secretary is the head of the department and advises Sue Jaquinot two Ministers and a Parliamentary Secretary. John Collins Kevin Love Executive Committee Paul Jerome Adrian Spall This committee meets weekly and comprises the Secretary, Peter Sutherland all deputy secretaries and general managers and the Greg Wilson Chief Finance Officer. Its role is to review departmental Ray O’Halloran, Committee Secretary Andrew W McDonald, Chief Finance Officer operations and performance on a regular, structured basis and to ensure that the department remains focused on its vision, objectives, strategies and projects, as expressed in the corporate and business plans. Organisational performance
Policy and Strategy Executive Committee Business Management Committee Audit Committee The role of this committee is to assist in the development The role of this committee is to oversee the planning, This independent committee advises the Secretary of appropriate policies and strategies for submission budgeting, monitoring, reporting and reviewing processes and the Executive on their legal and legislative to the portfolio Ministers and the government. The of the business cycle. A key role of the committee is to responsibilities for oversight and governance of the committee, which meets monthly, will also integrate set and manage the department’s financial management functions of the department, including its relationship corporate goals, objectives and strategic directions strategy. It provides recommendations to address issues with portfolio agencies. The committee’s charter has that are appropriate for the department and all agencies that impact on overall performance and output delivery. formalised the process by which executive officers, within the sustainability and environment portfolio. Members: principal scientists and senior managers seek Members: Professor Lyndsay Neilson, Chair independent advice. Professor Lyndsay Neilson, Chair Sue Jaquinot, Deputy Chair Members: John Collins, Deputy Chair Kevin Love Barry Nicholls, Independent Chair Kevin Love Paul Jerome Louise Hill, independent public sector agency rep. Peter Sutherland Peter Sutherland Sue Jaquinot Greg Wilson Judy Backhouse Kevin Love Adrian Spall Andrew W McDonald John Rickard, Executive Director, Land Victoria Sue Jaquinot Chris Corrigan, Director Corporate Planning and Projects Judy Backhouse, Executive Director, Regional Services Paul Jerome Mara Dennis, Manager Budget Strategy – Committee Secretary John Mitchell, portfolio agency representative David Young, Sustainable Energy Authority Victoria Ian White, Manager, Audit and Governance Committee Mark Stone, Parks Victoria Project Review Committee Tony Arnel, Building Commission This committee is a subcommittee of the Business Mick Bourke, EPA Victoria Ethics Brian Bayley, Melbourne Water Management Committee. Its role is to analyse projects, Luisa Ermacora, Committee Secretary ensuring alignment with the department’s strategic Staff, contractors and volunteers are required to act directions and tighter disciplines around time and cost with integrity and objectivity. The department manages Program Management Committee for projects. The committee is strategically timed to an annual process of employee declaration of private interests, allowing any potential conflicts of interest This committee meets fortnightly and aims to assess project scopes and business cases prior to to be managed. Occasionally, staff and contractors demonstrate that DSE operates at best practice in cost submission to the Expenditure Review Committee (ERC). must sign a deed of confidentiality. benefit analysis and science quality around program Members: development and delivery. The committee will advise Andrew McDonald, Chair Human resource policies reinforce DSE’s commitment on the strategic fit of programs and the efficiency and Rod Gowans, Executive Director, Biodiversity and Natural Resources to upholding public sector conduct, based on the effectiveness of programs. It will conduct reviews of Peter Watkinson, Director, Transit Cities directions of the Commissioner for Public Employment. Judy Backhouse outputs and provide input into whole-of-government John Collins Guidelines set out expected standards of responsible reviews. The committee reports on the outcomes of Alf Smith, Department of Infrastructure conduct, recording and reporting of scientific research evaluation and the monitoring of program delivery. and provision of scientific or technical advice. It did not meet in 2002–03. Organisational Development Committee Members: The role of this committee is to ensure that all corporate Privacy Lyndsay Neilson, Chair services are delivered in accordance with statutory and During the past 18 months, the department conducted an Kevin Love, Deputy Chair legal obligations and within a best practice framework. Sue Jaquinot extensive internal campaign to raise awareness of the new The committee, which meets fortnightly, guides the John Collins privacy requirements contained in the Information Privacy Peter Sutherland development of people strategies, communication Act 2000 and the Health Records Act 2001. The campaign’s Adrian Spall programs and information technologies. four themes – education and training, support tools, Janine Haddow, Acting Executive Director, Conservation and Recreation Members: Judy Backhouse workplace assistance, enforcement and monitoring – Professor Lyndsay Neilson, Chair Ian Voigt, Regional Manager South West were developed to ensure that the new requirements were Sue Jaquinot, Deputy Chair Graeme Mitchell, Chief Scientist communicated and appropriate skills were understood. Kevin Love Andrew McDonald Paul Jerome John Lind, Acting Chief Economist Judy Backhouse Jenny Singleton, Director, Human Resources Lyndon Thompson, Director, Information Technology Tess Williams, Director, Communications and Stakeholder Relations Helen Delaporte, Committee Secretary 77 Ministerial support Information, communication Plan DSE provided high quality and timely assistance to Think and Plan and knowledge Ministers throughout the year. From the period 1 July 2002 to 5 December 2002, the department provided Research and development the Minister for Conservation and Environment, Sherryl Garbutt, with 816 briefings. The department also handled Improve Deliver DSE conducts urban and regional research on the policy 3964 items of correspondence for Minister Garbutt. Learn and Adapt Implement to impacts of demographic, housing, employment and social Completion trends and the underlying economic and social systems The department provided the Minister for Planning, that influence them. The department has developed Mary Delahunty, with 1119 briefings for the period from integrated time series datasets and systems for Review 1 July 2002 to 30 June 2003. It also handled 6608 items monitoring and analysing residential and industrial of correspondence for Minister Delahunty. Monitor Results and Evaluate land development activity and changing population DSE provided the Minister for Water and Minister for Success and employment characteristics. These underpin the Environment, John Thwaites, with 1149 briefings during preparation of forecasts of housing and industrial activity the period from early December 2002 to 30 June 2003. Plan, Deliver, Review, Improve and population and household projections that are used It also handled 4881 items of correspondence for for planning and services delivery across government and Minister Thwaites. Corporate planning the private sector. Following the founding of DSE in December 2002, Examples of research conducted during the year include Business cycle the corporate planning process was critical to helping housing affordability and the changing nature of the establish the department’s identity, clarifying its vision housing market; the spatial implications of an ageing and purpose, setting its objectives and agreeing on its population; patterns of migration within Victoria; the Plan Deliver Review Improve values. An intense corporate planning process was nature of land development on Melbourne's fringe; and forecasting the future demand for industrial land. DSE’s business cycle, Plan Deliver Review Improve, was facilitated and included key stakeholder interviews, established to focus the organisation on service delivery management debates and forums, staff focus groups DSE conducts forest, flora, fauna and freshwater ecology and to drive a culture of completion. The cycle integrates and business planning workshops. The process directly research through the following organisations: all key business processes to align policy, planning and engaged over 400 people and culminated in the launch of resourcing across the department. It emphasises strong the corporate plan in readiness for the new financial year. Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental project practices and delivers business plans with clear Research, Heidelberg milestones and accountabilities with the aim of being Risk management The Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research used as effective management tools. Risk management is integral to the planning process, (ARI) delivers part of the department’s scientific program via research, survey and monitoring, and technical A key component of the cycle is the review and with strategic risks explored through the corporate services. Based at Heidelberg, the ARI was established evaluation framework that will be developed to articulate planning process and more specific risks identified by by the Victorian Government in 1970 as a leading centre the department’s approach to performance monitoring line managers when managing projects, regions, branches for applied ecological research. Its main focus is to and evaluation at corporate, divisional, output, program and broader work groups. DSE’s risk assessment and provide strategic research and management advice on and project levels. management methodology conforms to the Australian/New Zealand standard for risk management environmentally sustainable land management and DSE is committed to the principles of learning (AS/NZS 4360:1999). Within the framework, detailed resource-use policies. Its projects help protect biodiversity organisations. Processes and projects are being standards and procedures are developed by program on public and private land. The institute employs 60 core established to review capture learnings, to build areas to address specific risks, such as fire preparedness staff and a number of contractors. The annual budget of knowledge and to adapt systems accordingly. and suppression. the institute is $6 million which is sourced mostly outside the division.
78 ARI embarked on major new research projects to The centre possesses an increasing amount of Services were maintained across DSE throughout the increase protection of Victoria’s flora, fauna and expertise on greenhouse issues and on the science bushfire response period. Following machinery of ecosystems, including: of sustainable forest management, and it is developing government changes, 300 staff were connected, at innovative genetic research. It attracts the support 10 sites across Victoria, to email and the computing • A project worth $440,000 over three years to develop of local government, businesses and the community environment. Ties were retained to the DOI computer essential tools for measuring the quality of remnant as a strong growth opportunity for the region. network to allow access to business applications not vegetation and to improve vegetation management readily able to be moved across to DSE. strategies. This is expected to be completed later in 2003. Information and communication The department dramatically upgraded its network for • A significant program worth $420,000 over three technology 91 regional offices and institutes, allowing staff to complete years to develop adaptive experimental management Information and communication technology underpins work much faster. For instance, large GIS mapping files techniques to improve protection of native species the technologies that allow staff to deliver on business could be copied 40 times faster, while a report from the from predation by introduced species such as foxes. objectives and services. During the year, the department records management system could be generated in minutes This is expected to be completed later in 2003. gave critical, 24-hour support to the 2002–03 bushfire rather than hours. The upgrade also allowed staff to quickly • A research program worth $600,000 over three years response. Extra services were needed to cope with large manage data such as video and voice files. (in-kind) to underpin river restoration strategies increases in usage at central, regional and especially Video conferencing was established, connecting 26 sites. including a resnagging project to create habitat for remote sites. Infrastructure was expanded, created and This type of communication reduces the need to travel native fish. Most sub-projects were recently completed sustained, often within hours of the need being identified. and reduces the risk of accidents. It also saves time, with several spin-off projects begun or planned. Bushfire response activities included: allows meeting times to be more flexible and contributes • An Ecological Vegetation Class (EVC) mapping project to a greater work–life balance. of north-west Victoria for catchment management • setting up new incident control centres with network DSE began an upgrade and move of its data centre authorities, worth around $600,000 over a year and access and other services to a new, modern location. Just over 50 servers were a half. EVC mapping is critical to delivering vegetation • commissioning portable satellite dishes moved by 30 June 2003. The data centre acts as the management strategies and important to delivering • installing video conference facilities for use in incident nerve centre for the department, and, among other regional conservation programs. The project is due control meetings benefits, its upgrade and move will make it compatible for completion by June 2003. • improving the performance of two critical fire with the latest technology, will improve disaster recovery management systems due to high demand Forests Science Centre, Creswick and will accommodate future business needs. • creating 300 new user accounts on the network, similar The department set up a mapping program called The Forest Science Centre at Creswick is a leading to establishing a medium-sized regional office regional forest research agency. It applies science MapShare. Available from DSE’s website, MapShare • providing emergency external access via the Internet to allows DSE and DPI to easily publish natural resources to issues such as salinity; carbon sequestration; farm the department’s network. This was helpful to the army, forestry; hardwood and softwood plantations for information on the Internet and Intranet in the form of for instance, while the army was based at the Myrtleford interactive maps. People can then query, visualise and sawlogs and fibre; sustainable native forest management; Football Oval. and fire ecology and management. The centre is a joint print the maps. Five views of MapShare were published initiative of DSE and the University of Melbourne and and a further 17 are planned. MapShare received 145,000 over $5 million has been invested in developing world- web-page requests, including 34,000 in February when class research and teaching facilities. fires were at their peak. The centre offers undergraduate and postgraduate opportunities, as well as basic and applied research, and it is fast becoming the agency of choice for forestry science and technology. Under the direction of its director, Professor Mark Adams, the centre is providing services to south-east Australia, international students and forestry organisations.
79 Communications activities Daily press conferences were run in Melbourne, while in the regions where the fires were burning, media officers Major communications activities carried out during the from incident control centres disseminated daily media year to inform the community of key programs and some releases. Dedicated web pages were established on the of the services are described below. State Government website.
Box-Ironbark Forests A communications plan was adopted to support In August 2002, the government announced a voluntary legislation, creating 11 new or expanded national, state licence buyback scheme for timber mill owners as part of and national-heritage parks in the Box-Ironbark region the reform of Victoria’s forest management outlined in the of north-central and north-east Victoria. The land, which policy statement, Our Forests Our Future. The scheme, part covers more than 105,000 hectares, is now protected of the Industry Transition Program, is designed to ensure from further human impacts. that the timber industry is sustainable in the future. Communications were directed to people living in the Communications tools used to inform communities about Box-Ironbark region and to people within Victoria as a the scheme included a series of fact sheets, direct mail whole. The messages highlighted the unique lifestyle that explaining the proposal, and advertisements in local and people of the region enjoy, and the measures required to regional newspapers. Information was also available on protect the landscape and its wildlife from degradation. the DSE website. A fortnightly newsletter was sent to some 4500 The buyback scheme was substantially completed and stakeholders, and contained a generic email address for will see a 33 per cent reduction in licensed sawlog feedback and queries. A commitment to respond to volumes harvested from Victorian forests by the end queries within 24 hours was adopted. Commonly asked of the 2003 calendar year. It will also see the closure questions and answers were published in each newsletter. of close to 30 mills across Victoria: in Portland, the Midlands, Tambo, Dandenong, central Gippsland, East Fire fighting Gippsland and the north east forest management areas. DSE and DPI, accompanied by the CFA, Parks Victoria and Victoria Police, conducted an unprecedented Melbourne 2030 communications effort last summer, when Victoria Melbourne 2030, the State Government’s blueprint for experienced its worst and longest-running bushfires sustainable growth in Victoria's capital city, was launched in 60 years. A whole-of-government bushfire recovery in October 2002. communications team was established, with DSE as the lead agency. The team met every two weeks to maintain A series of announcements were made prior to the release information flow between government agencies. of the document on a number of key aspects of the strategy, including green wedge legislation and protection The team developed a strategy to ensure that for the Yarra River. communities and staff received regular access to the information required to facilitate community and The launch of the strategy was followed by a series environmental recovery. In particular, information kits of widely publicised information sessions and other were compiled and distributed to all operational staff ongoing communications activities to inform people in contact with local stakeholders. This ensured that about the implementation of the green wedges and there was consistency in messages and that field staff the submissions process. had access to useful statistics and facts. The kits included details of the government response to the bushfires, fact sheets and Q-and-As.
80 Farm dams Service delivery In the coming year, regional services will focus on The Water (Irrigation Farm Dams) Act 2002 required delivering forest industry reforms, implementing existing unlicensed irrigation or commercial dams to be Melbourne 2030 initiatives, delivering on water policy, licensed or registered between 1 July 2002 and 30 June Regional services biodiversity and river health strategies, and continuing to coordinate and implement the bushfire recovery effort. 2003. Market research found that 70 per cent of farmers The department provides services to the whole of were aware of the need to register, but only 30 per cent Victoria, particularly in the regions. More than 800 proposed to do anything about it. staff operate from 70 locations and five regions across Customer services A campaign to advise landowners of their legal Victoria. The regions are Port Phillip, Gippsland, North DSE and DPI deliver accurate and up-to-date information to responsibility was then developed, using strategic East, North West and South West. Regional staff put into the public through the Customer Service Centre. Members advertising, media releases and stakeholder relations action government policy on sustainability across urban, of the public can telephone or email the centre between to build community awareness before the deadline of regional and rural Victoria. 8 am and 8 pm, Monday to Friday, with general inquiries. 30 June 2003. Advertisements were published extensively During the year, the department’s services in the regions Through the centre, the department also provides a in rural media to set up initial awareness of the focused primarily on responding to the wildfires that critical service to staff through such initiatives as staff approaching deadline. began as a result of very dry conditions across Victoria. and stakeholder surveys, statistical reporting, customer As the deadline drew near, media releases reported the Services also helped to implement key programs such service training and research services for specific projects. as Images of the West, a Pride of Place funded initiative increasing uptake of registrations. This was an important During the year, the department handled 125,106 phone which introduces urban design to high-profile sites along tool in demonstrating that, after initial resistance in some calls and emails. Trained customer service officers use the main road network in western Victoria. areas to the process, the target audience was accepting a comprehensive frequently asked questions database, the need to register dams. The department also delivers regional services through which was maintained during 2002–03. The database A final round of advertisements and valuable support Catchment and Agriculture Services, a shared service enables officers to quickly answer around 80 per cent from stakeholder groups such as the Victorian Farmers between DSE and DPI. The shared service aims to of all inquiries. The most common questions from Federation saw a flood of registrations just before the achieve sustainable development of natural resources customers were related to land title information, animal closing date. The final total of 8754 applications for an by influencing private land managers, industries and health, and game and wildlife licences. communities. Its programs focus on agricultural estimated 17,000 dams far exceeded industry estimates The East Melbourne information centre and bookshop industries; agricultural quality assurance; sustainable of registrations. processed 4065 licences to the value of $180,994, sold agriculture and land management; pest plants and publications to the value of $426,864, received 15,000 animals; and private forestry. It consists of 780 staff phone calls and welcomed approximately 50,000 visitors. in 76 locations throughout Victoria. During the year, the department completed the first Shared services phase of a project to create a privately grown hardwood sawlog and firewood estate as part of the Regional Forest DSE delivers a range of services which are shared with Agreement in the west region of the state. The project DPI. These include human resources (host-DSE), financial will complement wood products traditionally sourced services (host-DPI), information, communication and from state forests. It will also encourage the strategic technology services (host-DSE), library services (host-DPI), establishment of commercial plantations to deliver a fleet management (host-DSE), payroll (host-DPI), mail range of environmental services such as salinity mitigation, (host-DPI), corporate sustainability (host-DSE) and facilities priority weed control and biodiversity management. management services (host-DSE).
81 Environmental performance Waste management Over the past 12 months, DSE took important steps to The department is committed to cutting the reduce the amount of waste being sent to landfill. The environmental impact of its office activities through a department put in place the leading-edge ‘aWay with unique program called Eco-Office Challenge. The program, Waste’ separation system at its Nicholson Street, Victoria which aims to reduce energy, water, paper use and waste Parade and Epsom offices in 2002 (see case study). disposed to landfill, achieved significant results during The system allows staff to divide waste into separate 2002–03. containers: reusable, recyclable, compost or landfill. The program has yielded outstanding results, with an average Energy management annual reduction of waste to landfill of 90.3 per cent: DSE has introduced cost-effective technologies and equivalent to 70 tonnes or 1.9 Olympic swimming pools. practices to reduce its building energy use. Energy ‘aWay with Waste’ will continue to be put in place at audits were performed at the Ovens, Traralgon and other major DSE offices during 2003–04. Orbost offices and at the Arthur Rylah Institute. The audits identified potential energy savings of up to Environmentally sustainable buildings 28 per cent at each site. By June 2003, regional sites responsible for 40 per cent of total energy used by the All new building works carried out by DSE follow department were audited. Central business district sites environmentally sustainable design, construction and fit- shared with DPI had already been audited and account out principles to minimise environmental impact. Projects aWay with Waste has yielded outstanding results, with an average annual for a further 37 per cent of total energy use. over the past 12 months include: reduction of waste to landfill of 90.3 per cent: equivalent to 70 tonnes or 1.9 Olympic swimming pools. To meet government requirements, DSE submitted an • completion of additional accommodation at the Epsom office in June 2003 Visy Recycling’s Alex Jesaulenko, at left, with DSE's North West Regional energy management report to the Sustainable Energy Manager, Chris Halpin, at the launch in May 2002 of ‘aWay with Waste’ Authority of Victoria, covering energy use over three • start of construction of new premises for the Bairnsdale at Epsom. years to June 2002. The report revealed that the former office NRE had reduced its energy intensity, or energy use per • start of a major fit-out of the CBD offices square metre, by 4.2 per cent over this period, exceeding • construction of modular buildings at Bendoc, Casterton the target of 3 per cent. Since sites began energy auditing and Marysville. in 2000, energy intensity had decreased by 8.5 per cent. The department’s leading work in this area was At June 2003, about 3.8 per cent of total electricity use recognised after it won the prestigious 2003 Facility at all sites was being bought as Green Power, just under Management Association of Australia Environment Award. the government target of 5 per cent. The award recognises comprehensive, environmentally sustainable development policy. Features of the award-winning approach include: • collecting and using rainwater and stormwater • solar water-heating • exploiting natural ventilation and lighting through windows that can open to reduce the amount of energy needed for heating, cooling and lighting • installing environmentally friendly furnishings and fixtures, and reusing some existing building materials • installing water-efficient fixtures and fittings.
82 Future directions ‘aWay with Waste’ In 2003–04, DSE will continue its innovative strategies to A review of waste management at DSE’s Nicholson Street maximise its environmental sustainability. DSE plans to: and Victoria Parade offices was carried out in August 2002. The review showed that while good recycling • complete energy audits and implement systems were in place, there was room for improvement. recommendations at a further 16 sites • implement ‘aWay with waste’ at a further five sites, A waste audit was performed to establish vital benchmark ensuring that about 59 per cent of DSE staff have access data, revealing that of general waste being sent to landfill, to the system about 91 per cent could be diverted using alternative • begin paper and tenancy-water reduction strategies disposal methods like reusing, recycling or composting. • introduce an environmental purchasing policy True waste 9% aWay with waste • undertake detailed staff awareness programs Compostables 15% • release Environmentally Sustainable Design and Achievements Construction Guidelines as part of a comprehensive Seven weeks after ‘aWay with Waste’ was launched, Green Buildings Package Reusable (single- sided paper) 9% follow-up audits at Nicholson Street and Victoria Parade • continue to incorporate leading-edge, environmentally were carried out to measure the success of the program, sustainable design and construction criteria as an to give feedback to staff and to form further benchmark integral part of all capital works. data for continuous improvement. The follow up revealed that staff had fully adopted and embraced the initiative. Recyclables – Recyclables Staff cut their waste being sent to landfill by an paper towel 18% 49% astonishing 94 per cent which is equivalent to 67 tonnes or 1.8 Olympic swimming pools per year.
Breakdown of waste to landfill (volume) in CBD offices, August 2002 100 8% Single-sided Following the audit, a new waste separation system 90 printed paper was devised to reflect actual waste disposal needs. (potential for 80 re-use) This involved: 9 70 3 • separating bins for reuse, recycling, compost, and % r true waste 60 e d u 69% Recycling • replacing each work-station general-waste bin with 50 c t Landfill i a co-mingled recycle box for paper, cardboard, glass, o 40 Waste n metals and most plastics • including dual bins in kitchen areas for depositing 30 compost and landfill materials only 20 • using clear and accurate signs to label waste bins 16% Compost 10 increasing staff awareness of ‘aWay with Waste’, • Landfill through formal launches, floor champions, emails, 0 Feb 7 March 28 brochures and a website. 7 weeks
Landfill waste reduction in CBD offices, February–March 2003
83 Between January 2002 and April 2003, the department Social performance spent $216,404 on advertising within CALD media, targeting issues for CALD communities and providing DSE delivers a range of programs designed to improve information as part of broader communications efforts. services for under-represented and disadvantaged The department provides an allowance to 24 staff with Victorians. These programs are targeted towards youth, accredited translation skills. culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, women and Indigenous people. The department’s actions to improve services and representation for these groups Indigenous Partnerships Strategy are designed to meet the government’s goals outlined The department supports Aboriginal welfare by in Growing Victoria Together, and include: developing partnerships to achieve Aboriginal aspirations • improving access to services for culturally and for land, culture, heritage, family and community. linguistically diverse Victorians DSE recognises that Indigenous communities are the • promoting reconciliation between Indigenous and traditional owners of our land and waters and that these non-Indigenous Victorians and moving to redress communities have a vital role in managing Victoria’s the dispossession of Aboriginal land and culture natural resources. • increasing the diversity of representation on The department delivers its commitment to Indigenous decision-making boards and in local government. communities through the Indigenous Partnerships Strategy (IPS). The strategy is a shared service with DPI CALD communities and DVC. Seven IPS facilitators and a coordinator operate across the state, underpinned by a robust management Services to CALD communities are delivered through and monitoring framework. the Multicultural Engagement Strategy, which has operated within DSE and the former NRE for several Actions carried out under the strategy include: years. Actions undertaken over the past 12 months • More than 30 per cent of staff completed the from the strategy include: Indigenous Cultural Awareness Program. This is • establishing a cultural diversity staff network as a a whole-day workshop facilitated by Indigenous shared service for DSE and DPI staff. The network representatives. Participants learn about Indigenous allows staff to receive information relevant to service culture and are given practical tools to help them delivery for CALD communities, including access to develop partnerships with Indigenous communities. research findings, training, knowledge sharing and The course will continue, with the aim that all staff feedback for new initiatives. Staff receive regular undertake the program by 2006. updates and networking opportunities. • DSE completed its Indigenous Employment Program, • holding a CALD shellfish-collection workshop. and set a minimum target of employing 37 new Representatives of Vietnamese, Cambodian, Samoan Indigenous staff by July 2005, equivalent to 1.4 per cent and Greek communities participated in the workshop of the DSE workforce. in April 2003, and their feedback has helped DSE to tailor future communications efforts.
84 DSE has employed several young Aborigines through Youth Board representation the government’s Youth Employment Scheme and the Community Jobs Program. In cooperation with local DSE is committed to the government’s youth policy, The department tracks representation of under- communities, the programs help protect cultural heritage Respect: the government’s vision for young people. The represented groups on statutory boards for each portfolio. sites and important environmental assets. Recent department aims to increase the participation of young At 30 June 2003, board representation in each of the three highlights of the programs include works to protect two people in environmental and natural resource portfolio areas administered by DSE was as follows: significant archaeological sites on Walpolla Island near management initiatives. Environment Mildura; the fencing of mounds in the Nyah State Forest; The department is represented on the government’s and, in Swan Hill, the instructing of an Indigenous trainee Youth Inter-departmental Committee, and helps develop Number Total Women CALD* Indigenous in the skills of forest management. curriculum material for schools. Programs are developed of bodies number of positions The department will take part in the Structured Training in consultation with local community groups and schools. (excluding and Employment Projects program, which will fund In 2002–03, many education programs were run by the vacancies) structured and accredited training to allow employers department to engage young Victorians and to improve to provide more long-term jobs for Indigenous people. their knowledge of environmental issues and No. % No. % No. % Copies of the Indigenous Partnerships Strategy are management. Highlights include: 41 374 136 36 35 9 4 1 available from www.dse.vic.gov.au • The Forestry Education Service promotes forests as a topic of study in Victoria’s schools. The service gives Water Women students a chance to participate in fieldwork at the Number Total Women CALD* Indigenous Toolangi Forest Discovery Centre in the tall forests The department aims to ensure that women have a of bodies number of of Victoria’s Central Highlands. Outreach services are voice in environmental and natural resource management. positions provided to schools throughout the state through two DSE is committed to a family-friendly workplace and (excluding mobile forest education trailers. Over 8000 students to improving representation of women on boards and vacancies) participate in the Toolangi forest fieldwork program committees. During the year the department: No. % No. % No. % each year. Outreach programs were delivered to over • held ‘Women in the City’ forums and conversations 1100 students across the state, including in east 35 224 73 33 17 8 0 0 to articulate women’s issues during development Gippsland, in north-east, central and western Victoria, of Melbourne 2030. Over 200 women participated. and in metropolitan Melbourne. Planning • continued the Women’s Mentoring Program, linking • The Coast Action/Coastcare program works with Number Total Women CALD* Indigenous women within DSE across all levels and experience. young people by providing support and advice to of bodies number of Sixty connections were made under this program. coastal volunteers and by providing coastal educational positions activities through the ‘Summer by the Sea’ program. (excluding About 3000 young people were coastal volunteers last vacancies) year, while around 18,750 young people were involved in ‘Summer by the Sea’ activities in January 2003. Over No. % No. % No. % 1900 children aged up to 14 years are now junior 15 258 89 34 11 4 0 0 coastal rangers. *CALD is interpreted as having the same meaning as ‘culturally diverse background’ as defined in the government’s Guidelines for the Appointment and Remuneration of Part-Time Non-Executive Directors of State Government Boards and Members of Statutory Bodies and Advisory Committees:a person who speaks a language other than English at home and/or is born outside Australia.
85 People performance Managing and valuing diversity Developing leaders The department values a diverse workforce. Initiatives DSE delivered a range of leadership and management Human Resources became a shared service between during the year include: initiatives, including: DSE and DPI following machinery of government • engaging 18 young people under the Youth Employment • publishing a comprehensive leadership development changes. The department recognises that people are Scheme and coordinating the placement of an extra page on the Intranet its most important resource, and it strives to create 33 in portfolio agencies. • establishing a panel of executive coaching providers a working environment where people are valued and • employing seven graduates under the Office of have rich and varied working experiences. • facilitating a Graduate Certificate in Organisational Workforce Development’s Graduate Recruitment Leadership program During the year, DSE staff and staff from portfolio Scheme. • continuing to participate in the Australian Rural agencies made a significant contribution to the fire • employing 11 Indigenous staff as part of the Leadership Program and the Williamson Community fighting effort. government’s ‘Wur-cum barra’ strategy. Wur-cum barra Leadership Program is an Indigenous phrase meaning ‘to work’, and this • establishing a three-year contract with Harvard People Strategy strategy aims to increase Indigenous employment within Business School Publishing for an online management the Victorian Public Service. The department’s Indigenous The department’s People Strategy guides the delivery development program, Harvard ManageMentor Employment Plan is fostering the recruitment, of excellent people management practices. The strategy • creating a leadership development framework to development and retention of Indigenous staff. contains six programs: workforce planning, developing support managers at all levels • the continuation of DSE’s women’s program which is people, developing leaders, health and safety, employee • selecting five VPS-4 and VPS-5 leaders from across designed to recruit and retain women in the workforce relations and people management. DSE and DPI to attend the inaugural Executive Master and to provide career and development opportunities of Public Administration program of the Australia and for women. Two women’s forums were conducted in Workforce planning New Zealand School of Government. As at 30 June 2003, the department employed 2659 staff Melbourne and Ballarat to encourage women to network In April 2003, a trial of the Frontline Management at a variety of locations in and around 80 cities and towns and exchange ideas. Over 300 employees participated. Initiative concluded. Frontline managers are recognised across Victoria. Extra seasonal staff were engaged for fire Sixty female employees took part in the second year as essential to improved productivity in the workplace. prevention and suppression. About 37 per cent of the DSE of the Women’s Mentor Program, which matches women The trial of the initiative represented an innovative way to workforce is female and almost 40 per cent of staff work to a senior female mentor to help them develop their support the transition of technical staff into management in regional and rural Victoria. careers in management and leadership roles. roles. There was a total of 277 graduates from 14 regional Staff are employed in a variety of professional, technical Developing people and metropolitan DSE and DPI locations at the end of the and business disciplines. The department operates DSE offers learning and development opportunities trial. Each graduate received a nationally recognised specific employment programs to ensure that young for staff through: qualification in Business (Frontline Management). qualified people continue to be recruited and developed in these disciplines. The department also has programs • corporate training for the employment of graduates and Indigenous people. • information technology and finance training • mentoring and shadowing • study leave and study assistance • grants, scholarships and cadetships • external conferences and seminars. During the year, the corporate training schedule offered 50 personal and professional development programs delivered by a panel of eight providers and attended by some 1000 staff.
86 Occupational health and safety Workforce information at June 2003 The Safe-T-Care strategy was introduced to develop Classification by gender Female Male Total an organisational culture that fosters a safe, supportive work environment while providing for the emotional and Field staff 4 232 236 physical health and wellbeing of staff. It uses a number VPS 1 42 21 63 of key occupational health and safety (OHS) indicators, VPS 2 323 309 632 including corporate plans, improvement strategies, lost VPS 3 309 487 796 time injury reports and audit findings. VPS 4 202 380 582 Key achievements during the year include: VPS 5 81 213 294 • holding health expos at office locations throughout Principal scientists 1 6 7 the state Executive officers 15 34 49 • purchasing an electronic incident management system Total 977 1682 2659 • piloting a Management Assistance Program • formulating the OHS (internal) audit process Employment status developing a standard template for Job Safety Analysis. • Part time 154 45 199 The key departmental OHS performance indicator is lost Full time 823 1637 2460 time injuries. A lost time injury is defined as an absence Total 977 1682 2659 from work of one or more days. NRE/DSE lost time injuries, 1999–2003 Employment type Year Number of lost time injuries Ongoing 802 1446 2248 1999–00 95 NRE Fixed term 175 236 411 Total 977 1682 2659 2000–01 71 NRE 2001–02 91 NRE Executive officers by gender 2002–03 94* DSE/DPI combined EO 1 0 1 1 * Thirty-seven of these injuries were caused by alpine fire activities. EO 2 3 12 15 While lost time injury numbers rose slightly during the EO 3 12 2133 year, it should be noted that 39 per cent of these were Total 15 34 49 directly related to the department’s involvement in activities associated with the alpine fires. Unfortunately, Tables reflect actual number of employees, not equivalent one fatality occurred during the year. A female fire fighter full time employees. drowned on 26 February 2003 when a flash flood swept Two of the 49 executives are on secondment to other a 4WD she was in, off a bridge into a creek near Beveridge agencies. Station in the Upper Buckland Valley (see Secretary’s Foreword on page 2).
87 Employee relations Reasons for exempting job vacancies from being Through the ongoing analysis of grievances, the Industrial relations staff continued to work with advertised department has developed and implemented strategies to address grievance patterns. DSE is committed to early trade unions, employees and management to further Reason for exemption Number of exemptions government policy objectives for cooperative approaches detection and resolution of grievances and harassment Reclassification 12 on industrial issues. claims through training programs and complaints Specialised role 3 resolution processes. Negotiations for the Australian Workers Union field staff agreement were finalised without recourse to industrial Similar role 1 Future directions action, and the agreement was approved by the Disadvantaged groups 2 Key human resource management programs earmarked government and the Australian Industrial Relations for 2003–04 include: Commission. The agreement establishes a health and Graduate recruitment 7 • developing workforce planning to ensure that there fitness-testing regime for employees involved in fire- Conversion of role from agency to staff 2 related activities. is an appropriately skilled and trained workforce Conversion of role from fixed term to ongoing 51 that can deliver services to the community The department lost no time through industrial disputes. • developing the department’s emergency response Statutory authorities within the portfolio were given The department accepted 20 personal grievances capability for 2002–03. All of these grievances were resolved. advice on industrial relations issues, including concluding • implementing the VPS Career and Classification The outcomes of the grievances are outlined in the enterprise agreements and resolving industrial disputes. Structure Review throughout the department following table. Sixteen enterprise agreements for statutory authorities • continuing to manage OHS through Safe-T-Care. were endorsed by government. Outcomes of personal grievances, 2002–03 People management Outcomes Number of grievances The department reviewed all human resources policies Withdrawn by applicant 1 to ensure that a uniform set of contemporary policies Number conciliated 12 are applied to all staff and that the policies are accessible from the Intranet. DSE observes merit and equity Mediated 3 principles enshrined in the Public Sector Management and Heard – grievance denied 4 Employment Act 1998 and continues to operate programs to monitor their effectiveness. Summary of grievances, 2002–03 A total of 78 decisions to exempt job vacancies from being Number of grievances advertised were made by the Secretary on the grounds that there was no infringement of the merit and equity Recruitment selection 8 principle. All exemptions were advertised to employees Performance planning scheme outcomes 5 through notification in the electronic departmental Classification 0 newsletter and were subject to the grievance process. The following table summarises reasons for the exemptions. Employment conditions 5 Harassment 2
Of the grievances accepted, two related to workplace harassment. They were both resolved through local conciliation.
88 Awards John Seebeck Valuer-General Victoria John received the Ellis Troughton Memorial Award (2002) Valuer-General Victoria’s valuation assistance project Timothy Anderson in recognition of many years of work with Australian won the Australian Property Institute’s Property Industry Timothy received the Centenary Medal for Services mammals and his service to the Australian Mammal Award in August 2002. The award recognises the towards the Environment for his work towards achieving Society, including serving on Council and convening two leadership of the municipal assistance project team sustainability in the Wombat Forest. major symposia: one on bandicoots (1985) and another in helping 14 rural councils to improve their valuation on native rodents (1996). John was also made an Inaugural processes and to achieve a timely and accurate return Andrew Arnold Fellow of the Australian Mammal Society. of the 2002 municipal revaluation. Andrew was granted the Microsoft Corporation Award and Sadly, John passed away on 8 September 2003. He will be Les Vearing the Dimension Computing Award. These awards are for remembered as a tireless worker for wildlife conservation excellence in the Certificate IV in Multimedia (Information and for the sciences of zoology and conservation biology. Les is also a member of the Castlemaine Operations Technology in the School of Business Studies). Branch of St John Ambulance. Les joined St John Brian Simpson Ambulance in 1984. He holds the NCO rank of Sergeant Max Coulter within the Operations Branch and is also a State Brian received the Ballarat Environment Network (BEN) Accredited Instructor for First Aid. Les was admitted Max was awarded an Australian Fire Service Medal Individual Award for assisting the establishment of the as a Serving Brother to the Order of St John. The honour in recognition of his service to fire management. BEN Biodiversity Reserves, and for his formation of and recognises this dedicated community member’s many long association with the ‘Friends of the Yarrowee River’, years of voluntary work with the organisation. Les’ Simon Nicol and the River Habitat Rehabilitation November 2002. Brian also received the Catherine King nomination for the Serving Brother Award involved Team, Arthur Rylah Institute Award for Community Service for his service to Pleasant a lengthy and stringent selection process. Simon and the team received the David Ashton Award Street Primary School. for Biodiversity Research (2003). The team won this Lyneve Whiting outstanding achievement award for developing a scientific Titles Automation Lyneve was selected for the Australian Rural Leadership method to rehabilitate rivers through resnagging with This project took out two awards. In September 2002, Program 2003–04. Lyneve was one of six Victorians large woody debris. the titles automation project team from Land Victoria selected to participate in this major leadership program won the Australian Institute of Project Management’s (there is a total of 32 in the program). Safe-T-Care Victorian 2002 Achievement Award. The $92 million DSE’s Safe-T-Care was recognised by the Office of Public project changed Victoria’s land titles system from millions Employment’s 2003 People Management Awards. DSE of paper records to a leading online land registration received a commendation recognising Safe-T-Care in the system. The team was also recognised for excellence and ‘Managing People Fairly’ category. innovation in records management in the Victorian public sector at the Sir Rupert Hamer Records Management Awards, winning the inner-budget category award.
89
DEPARTMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY AND ENVIRONMENT FINANCIAL REPORT 2003
Contents Statement of financial performance 92 Statement of financial position 93 Statement of cash flows 94 Notes to the financial statements 95 Accountable officer’s declaration 145 Auditor-General’s Report 147
This financial report covers DSE as an individual entity.
DSE is a government department of the State of Victoria. Its principal address is: 8 Nicholson Street East Melbourne VIC 3002
A description of the nature of the department’s operations and its principal activities is included in the Report of Operations. For queries in relation to financial reporting please call 13 61 86, or visit www.dse.vic.gov.au
91 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Statement of financial performance for the year ended 30 June 2003 Note 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Revenue from ordinary activities Output appropriations 1(e),4 962,690 806,126 Other revenue and revenue from other parties 1(e),4 125,491 127,924 Resources received free of charge or for nominal consideration 1(v),4 5 5,916 1,088,186 939,966
Expenses from ordinary activities Employee benefits 1(s),6 281,748 291,912 Supplies and services 6 489,190 321,135 Depreciation and amortisation 1(j),6 28,946 29,865 Transfer payments, grants and subsidies 6 288,315 249,802 Resources provided free of charge or for nominal consideration 1(v) 1,894 1,672 Capital asset charge 1(u) 64,482 68,230 1,154,575 962,616 Net result for the reporting period 6 (66,389) (22,650) Net increase/(decrease) in asset revaluation reserve 18(a) 172,840 (82,623) Total revenues, expenses, revaluation and other adjustments recognised directly in equity 172,840 (82,623) Total changes in equity other than those resulting from transactions with the Victorian State Government in its capacity as owner 18(e) 106,451 (105,273) The above statement of financial performance should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
92 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Statement of financial position as at 30 June 2003 Note 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Current assets Cash 7,19 36,977 62,788 Receivables 8,19 42,583 75,461 Prepayments 1,051 320 Inventories 9 7,843 7,805 Other financial assets 10,19 11,961 13,606 Other assets 13 1,082 717 Total current assets 101,497 160,697 Non-current assets Receivables 8,19 9,157 15,502 Property, plant and equipment 3,11 3,071,255 3,087,105 Intangible assets 12 39,324 48,462 Other assets 13 4,175 7,351 Total non-current assets 3,123,911 3,158,420 Self-generating and regenerating assets Natural resource assets 14 258,162 282,765 Total assets 3,483,570 3,601,882 Current liabilities Payables 15,19 21,352 34,926 Provisions 17,25 15,173 25,431 Deposits repayable 19 234 217 Unearned revenue 188 2,853 Total current liabilities 36,947 63,427 Non-current liabilities Payables 15,19 2 1,920 Interest bearing liabilities 16,19 – 8,199 Provisions 17,25 42,382 70,240 Total non-current liabilities 42,384 80,359 Total liabilities 79,331 143,786 Net assets 3,404,239 3,458,096 Equity Contributed equity 18(b) 2,208,021 2,368,329 Reserves 18(a) 1,032,166 859,326 Accumulated surplus 18(c) 164,052 230,441 Total equity 3,404,239 3,458,096 Contingent liabilities 23 Commitments for expenditure 24 The above statement of financial position should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 93 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Statement of cash flows for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Cash flows from operating activities Receipts from government 986,734 798,594 Receipts from other entities 102,544 125,916 Payments to suppliers and employees (693,044) (566,141) 396,234 358,369 Interest received 1,098 1,374 Transfer payments, grants and subsidies (288,315) (249,802) Capital asset charge (64,482) (68,230) Borrowing costs expense (1) (232) Net cash inflow from operating activities 30 44,534 41,479
Cash flows from investing activities Payments for property, plant and equipment (63,705) (49,731) Payments for software (5,527) (5,762) Redemption’s of investments (4,800) 1,450 Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 1,095 579 Net cash outflow from investing activities (72,937) (53,464)
Cash flows from financing activities Proceeds from capital contributions by State Government 32,141 41,126 Payments of capital contributions (30,034) (25,656) Proceeds/(repayment) of borrowings and advances 485 (597) Net cash inflow from financing activities 2,592 14,873
Net increase/(decrease) in cash held (25,811) 2,888 Cash at the beginning of the financial year 62,788 59,900 Cash at the end of the financial year 7 36,977 62,788 The above statement of cash flows should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
94 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Contents Note Page 1 Summary of significant accounting policies 96 2 Output groups of the department 103 3 Restructuring of administrative arrangements 111 4 Revenue 115 5 Summary of compliance with annual parliamentary appropriations 116 6 Result from ordinary activities 118 7 Cash assets 120 8 Receivables 121 9 Inventories 122 10 Other financial assets 122 11 Property, plant and equipment 123 12 Intangible assets 127 13 Other assets 127 14 Natural resource assets 128 15 Payables 129 16 Interest bearing liabilities 129 17 Provisions 129 18 Equity and movements in equity 130 19 Financial instruments 133 20 Ministers and accountable officers 136 21 Remuneration of executives 137 22 Remuneration of auditors 138 23 Contingent liabilities 138 24 Commitments for expenditure 139 25 Employee benefits 139 26 Administered items 140 27 Ex-gratia payments 143 28 Events occurring after reporting date 143 29 Bonds and guarantees held in trust 143 30 Reconciliation of result for the reporting period to net cash inflow from operating activities 144 31 Non-cash financing and investing activities 144
95 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 1. Summary of significant accounting policies This general-purpose financial report has been prepared in accordance with the Financial Management Act 1994, Australian Accounting Standards, Statements of Accounting Concepts and other authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board, and Urgent Issues Group Consensus Views. It is prepared in accordance with the historical cost convention, except for certain assets and liabilities which, as noted, are at valuation. The accounting policies adopted, and the classification and presentation of items, are consistent with those of the previous year, except where a change is required to comply with an Australian Accounting Standard or Urgent Issues Group Consensus View. (a) Reporting entity The financial statements include all the controlled activities of the Department of Sustainability and Environment (previously the Department of Natural Resources and Environment). Effective 31 December 2002 the following output groups of the department were transferred to the newly created Department of Primary Industries in their entirety: • Minerals and Petroleum, • Fisheries, and • Agriculture. The Energy Policy section of the Energy and Greenhouse Policy output group was transferred to the Department of Infrastructure at 31 December 2002. The Aboriginal Reconciliation and Respect output group and the Social Programs of the Corporate Management Division were transferred to the Department for Victorian Communities at 31 December 2002. The revenue and expenses of the above output groups to 31 December 2002 have been included in Note 2. All assets and liabilities for these groups have been transferred as at 31 December 2002. Effective 31 December 2002 the Balanced Planning and Environmental System output group and the Strategic Land Use and Infrastructure Planning output group were transferred into the Department of Sustainability and Environment from the Department of Infrastructure. The Statement of financial performance reflects the revenue and expenses for the period 1 January 2003 to 30 June 2003 for these output group’s. Administered resources The Department of Sustainability and Environment administers but does not control certain resources on behalf of the Victorian Government. It is accountable for the transactions involving those administered resources, but does not have the discretion to deploy the resources for achievement of the department’s objectives. For these resources, the department acts only on behalf of the Victorian Government. Administered resources are accounted for using the accrual basis of accounting. Transactions and balances relating to these administered resources are not recognised as departmental revenues, expenses, assets or liabilities, but are disclosed in the applicable output schedules (refer Note 26). Other administered activities on behalf of parties external to the Victorian Government The Department of Sustainability and Environment has responsibility for transactions and balances relating to administered funds on behalf of third parties external to the Victorian Government. Revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities administered on behalf of third parties are not recognised in these financial statements as they are administered on a fiduciary and custodial basis, and therefore not controlled by the department (refer Note 26).
96 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Non-current assets All non-current assets, including Crown land, controlled by the department are reported in the statement of financial position. Non-current assets which the department administers on behalf of the Victorian Government are reported as administered resources in Note 26. The department capitalises expenditures on individual items of $1,000 or more, and records these as non current assets. Aggregate expenditure on items that will, when completed, result in non current assets providing future economic benefits, are recognised as construction in progress. Construction in progress is capitalised and placed in service from the time the asset is commissioned for use. Where expenditure exceeds $10,000 on the development of databases the department recognises databases as assets at the value of the total expenditure on the development of the database. The capitalised costs of developing the department’s Cadastral Map database, the Victorian Initiative for Minerals and Petroleum database (transferred to the Department of Primary Industries at 31 December 2002) and the developed software of the Titles Automation Project database are recognised as assets and included in Intangible Assets in the statement of financial position. In accordance with Australian Accounting Standard AAS 35 Self-Generating and Regenerating Assets the department recognises land under commercial native forests separate from the productive trees. Land in the commercial native forests area of State Forests is included in the value of State Forests and disclosed in Note 11 Property, plant and equipment. The value of productive trees in commercial native forest is recognised as natural resource assets and disclosed in Note 14 Natural resource assets. The costs of constructing major roads in National Parks and State Forests are capitalised and included in the statement of financial position when commissioned for use. Costs associated with minor tracks and trails are expensed as the costs are incurred. Trust Funds The department receives monies in a trustee capacity for various purposes. Trust funds, where the department has discretion over the expenditure, in the pursuit of its objectives, are controlled trust funds. In accordance with the Department of Treasury and Finance accounting policy, controlled funds held in trust are reported as cash and are disclosed in Note 7 Cash assets. Trust Funds, where the department performs only a custodial role in respect of the monies received and where these monies cannot be used for the achievement of the department’s objectives, are not brought to account in the financial report, but are disclosed as cash held in trust on behalf of the Crown in Note 26 Administered items. (b) Objectives and funding The department’s objective is to ensure Victoria’s natural and cultural assets are managed to secure social, environmental and economic benefits for both current and future generations. The department is predominantly funded by accrual based Parliamentary appropriations for the provision of outputs. It also provides, on a fee for service basis, various goods and services. (c) Outputs of the department Information about the department’s output groups and the expenses, revenues, assets and liabilities which are reliably attributable to those output groups is set out in the Output Groups Schedule (Note 2). Information about expenses, revenues, assets and liabilities administered by the department are given in the schedule of administered expenses and revenues and the schedule of administered assets and liabilities (Note 26). Refer Note 1(a) above for a summary of changes to output groups that occurred during the year. (d) Acquisitions of assets The cost method of accounting is used for all acquisitions of assets. Cost is measured as the fair value of the assets given up or liabilities undertaken at the date of acquisition plus incidental costs directly attributable to the acquisition. Assets acquired at no cost, or for nominal consideration, are initially recognised at their fair value at the date of acquisition.
97 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
(e) Revenue recognition All revenue received by the department is generally required to be paid into the Consolidated Fund. Revenue becomes controlled by the department when it has been appropriated by the Victorian Parliament and the appropriation is applied by the relevant Minister. In respect to revenue from the provision of outputs and Commonwealth grants the department may be permitted under section 29 of the Financial Management Act 1994 to have these revenues initially paid into the Consolidated Fund and an equivalent amount is provided by appropriation. In these instances the revenue “received” by the department and paid into the consolidated fund is administered and disclosed in Note 26. Amounts disclosed as revenue are, where applicable, net of returns, allowances and duties and taxes. Revenue is recognised for each of the department’s major activities as follows: (i) Output revenue Revenue from the outputs the department provides to government is recognised when those outputs have been delivered and the relevant Minister has certified delivery of those outputs in accordance with specified performance criteria. (ii) User Charges and Fees Revenue from the provision of goods and services to other governments and the private sector is recognised in accordance with the percentage of completion method. The department recognises controlled and administered user charges and fees at the time an invoice is issued for the goods or services provided, or cash received where no invoice supports the goods or service provided, with the exception of receipts for Land Titles services, and a portion of log sales which are invoiced monthly based on an annual royalty averaged over 12 months. Where the provision of goods and services is incomplete at the reporting date, the value of the incomplete portion is recognised as unearned and revenue for the period is adjusted and a corresponding liability recognised. (iii) Commonwealth grants Grants payable by the Commonwealth Government are recognised as controlled revenue when the department gains control of the underlying assets. Where grants are reciprocal, revenue is recognised as performance occurs under the grant. Non-reciprocal grants are recognised as revenue when the grant is received or receivable. Conditional grants may be reciprocal or non-reciprocal depending on the terms of the grant. (iv) Taxes and fines As the department does not gain control over assets arising from taxes and fines no revenue is recognised. The department collects these amounts on behalf of the Crown. Accordingly, the amounts are disclosed as revenues in the schedule of administered revenues and expenses (refer Note 26). All other amounts of revenue over which the department does not gain control are disclosed as administered revenue in the schedule of administered revenues and expenses (refer Note 26). (f) Receivables All debtors are recognised at the amounts receivable as they are due for settlement at no more than 30 days from the date of recognition. Collectability of debtors is reviewed on an ongoing basis. Debts which are known to be uncollectable are written off. A provision for doubtful debts is raised when some doubt as to collection exists. (g) Inventories Stores, work in progress and finished goods are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is based on the first-in, first-out principle and includes expenditure incurred in acquiring the inventories and bringing them to their existing condition. Net realisable value is determined on the basis of the department’s normal selling pattern. Expenses associated with marketing, selling and distribution are deducted to determine net realisable value. Inventories of seed and felled logs in dumps are valued at net market value, or cost where an active and liquid market does not exist.
98 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
(h) Revaluations of non-current assets Subsequent to the initial recognition as assets, non-current physical assets, other than plant, and equipment are measured at fair value. Plant and equipment are measured at cost. Revaluations are made with sufficient regularity to ensure that the carrying amount of each asset does not differ materially from its fair value at the reporting date. Values are assessed annually and supplemented by independent assessments, at least every three years. Revaluations are conducted in accordance with the Victorian Government policy – Revaluation of Non-Current Physical Assets. The Department of Treasury and Finance issued the Victorian Government Policy Revaluation of Non-Current Physical Assets in May 2002. In accordance with Victorian Government Policy the department is valuing a number of classes of non-current assets progressively until the reporting period ended 30 June 2005. These progressive revaluations are conducted using the fair value as the basis of measurement. The following summarises the department’s asset revaluation strategy for classes of non-current assets that are undergoing progressive revaluations:
Non-current asset classes Reporting period ended
Land Crown land 30 June 2005 National parks 30 June 2005 Land used for operational purposes 30 June 2005 State forests 30 June 2005
Buildings and Structures Buildings and structures in national parks and land conservation reserves 30 June 2005 Buildings and structures on land for operational purposes 30 June 2005 Buildings and structures in state forests 30 June 2005
The following summarises the department’s completed revaluations: Non-current asset classes
Land Conservation reserves 30 June 2003 Metropolitan parks 30 June 2003
Buildings and structures Buildings and structures in metropolitan parks 30 June 2003 Roads 30 June 2003
Revaluation increments are credited directly to the asset revaluation reserve, except that, to the extent that an increment reverses a revaluation decrement in respect of that class of asset previously recognised as an expense in the net result, the increment is recognised immediately as revenue in the net result. Revaluation decrements are recognised immediately in the statement of financial performance as expenses in the net result, except that, to the extent that a credit balance exists in the asset revaluation reserve in respect of the same class of assets, they are debited directly to the asset revaluation reserve.
99 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Revaluation increments and decrements are offset against one another within a class of non-current assets. All permanent major roads were revalued at 30 June 2003 by department engineers at their current replacement cost written down based on the condition of the roads, which determined their remaining useful life. Roads are depreciated over a useful life of 80 years. Land conservation reserves and land in metropolitan parks were revalued at 30 June 2003. Land in state forests was revalued at 30 June 2002. Land used for operational purposes was revalued at 30 June 2002. Buildings and structures in metropolitan parks were revalued at 30 June 2003 and buildings and structures on operational Crown land were revalued at 30 June 2002. Self-generating and regenerating assets The department recognises productive trees in commercial native forests as self-generating and regenerating assets. These natural resource assets are revalued at their net market value at 30 June each year. For productive trees net market value is calculated as the net present value of future cash flows expected to be generated from the produce discounted at a current market-determined rate. Increases/decreases in the net market value from the previous valuation is recognised as revenue/expense in the statement of financial performance. (i) Other financial assets – investments Investments in unlisted securities are recognised at cost and dividend income is recognised in the statement of financial performance when receivable. (j) Depreciation of property, plant and equipment Depreciation is calculated on a straight line basis to write off the net cost or ‘deemed’ net cost of each item of property, plant and equipment (excluding land) over its expected useful life to the department. Estimates of the remaining useful lives are reviewed at least annually for all assets. Capitalised expenditure on intangible assets, such as databases and software, is amortised on a straight line basis over an estimated useful life of 10 years. The expected useful lives are as follows: Buildings and structures 5 to 40 years Plant, machinery and equipment 3 to 20 years Roads infrastructure 80 years Buildings leasehold improvement Term of lease (1 to 15 years) Software 10 years Where items of plant and equipment have separately identifiable components which are subject to regular replacement, those components are assigned useful lives distinct from the item of plant and equipment to which they relate. Other assets which include items of historical, cultural or environmental significance are not depreciated. (k) Leasehold improvements The cost of improvements to or on leasehold properties is amortised over the unexpired period of the lease or the estimated useful life of the improvement to the department, which ever is the shorter. Leasehold improvements held at the reporting date are being amortised over the lease term. (l) Leased non-current assets A distinction is made between finance leases which effectively transfer from the lessor to the lessee substantially all the risks and benefits incident to ownership of leased non-current assets, and operating leases under which the lessor effectively retains substantially all such risks and benefits. The department does not have any finance leases. Other operating lease payments are charged to the statement of financial performance in the periods in which they are incurred, as this represents the pattern of benefits derived from the leased assets.
100 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
(m) Non-current assets constructed by the department The cost of non-current assets constructed by the department includes the cost of all materials used in construction, direct labour on the project, borrowing costs incurred during construction and an appropriate proportion of variable and fixed overhead. Borrowing costs included in the cost of non-current assets are those costs that would have been avoided if the expenditure on the construction of the assets had not been made. Borrowing costs incurred while active construction is interrupted for extended periods are recognised as expenses. (n) Intangible assets (i) Software Significant costs associated with the acquisition or development of computer software are capitalised and amortised on a straight line basis over the periods of the expected benefit, which is considered to be 10 years. (ii) Web site costs Costs in relation to web sites controlled by the department are charged as expenses in the period in which they are incurred unless they relate to the acquisition of an asset, in which case they are capitalised and amortised over their period of expected benefit. Generally, costs in relation to feasibility studies during the planning phase of a web site, and ongoing costs of maintenance during the operating phase are considered to be expenses. Costs incurred in building or enhancing a web site, to the extent that they represent probable future economic benefits controlled by the department that can be reliably measured, are capitalised as an asset and amortised over the period of the expected benefits which vary from 3 to 5 years. (o) Trade and other creditors These amounts represent liabilities for goods and services provided to the department prior to the end of the financial year and which are unpaid. The amounts are unsecured and are usually paid within 30 days of recognition. (p) Interest bearing liabilities Loans are carried at historical cost. Interest is accrued over the period it becomes due and is recorded as part of other creditors. (q) Maintenance and repairs Plant of the department is required to be overhauled on a regular basis. This is managed as part of an ongoing major cyclical maintenance program. The costs of this maintenance are charged as expenses as incurred, except where they relate to the replacement of a component of an asset, in which case the costs are capitalised and depreciated in accordance with note 1(j). Other routine operating maintenance, repair costs and minor renewals are also charged as expenses as incurred. (r) Goods and services tax Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of GST except where the amount of GST incurred is not recoverable, in which case it is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of an asset or part of an item of expense. The net amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is included as part of receivable or payables in the statement of financial position. The GST component of a receipt or payment is recognised on a gross basis in the statement of cash flows in accordance with Australian Accounting Standard AAS 28 Statement of Cash Flows.
101 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
(s) Employee benefits (i) Wages, salaries and annual leave Liabilities for wages, salaries and annual leave (including oncosts) are recognised, and are measured as the amounts unpaid at the reporting date at the amounts expected to be paid when liabilities are settled in respect of employees’ services. (ii) Long service leave A liability for long service leave (including oncosts) is recognised, and is measured as the present value of expected future payments to be made in respect of services provided by employees up to the reporting date. Consideration is given to expected future wage and salary levels, experience of employee departures and periods of service. Expected future payments are discounted using interest rates on national Government guaranteed securities with terms to maturity that match, as closely as possible, the estimated future cash outflows. Long service leave liability is calculated in months and takes into account departmental service, prior service and leave without pay. The current liability for long service leave is the amount expected to be paid in the next 12 months on the basis of leave taken in the past. (iii) Superannuation The amount charged to the statement of financial performance in respect of superannuation represents the contributions made by the department to the superannuation fund. No liability is shown for superannuation in the statement of financial position as the liability is assumed by the Department of Treasury and Finance. The current year employer contribution for superannuation payments on behalf of the department’s employees is disclosed in Note 25. (t) Cash For purposes of the statement of cash flows, cash includes short term deposits that are readily convertible to cash on hand and are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value, net of outstanding cheques yet to be presented by the departments suppliers and creditors (refer Note 7). Cash also includes funds held in trust at the Department of Treasury and Finance that the department has received for future activities. (u) Capital asset charge The capital asset charge is payable to the Department of Treasury and Finance and represents the opportunity cost of capital invested in the non-current physical assets used in the provision of outputs. The charge is calculated on the carrying amount of non-current physical assets (excluding land and intangible assets). (v) Resources provided and received free of charge or for nominal consideration Contributions of resources and resources provided free of charge are recognised at their fair value. Contributions in the form of services are only recognised when a fair value can be reliably determined and the services would have been purchased if not donated. The fair value of resources received free of charge is the carrying amount of the resources provided by the transferor at the time of the transfer. (w) Contributed capital Consistent with UIG Abstract 38 Contributions by Owners Made to Wholly-Owned Public Sector Entities appropriations for additions to net assets have been designated as contributed capital. Other transfers that are in the nature of contributions or distributions have also been designated as contributed capital. (x) Rounding of amounts Amounts in the financial report have been rounded to the nearest thousand dollars, or in other cases, to the nearest dollar.
102 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
(y) Changes in accounting policy Changes in accounting policies and their financial impact are as follows: (i) Calculation of annual and long service leave liability: As a result of the issuance of Australian Accounting Standard Board 1028 “Employee Benefits” the department calculated employee benefits for wages, salaries and annual leave at the amounts expected to be paid when the liabilities are settled. Previously these were calculated at current pay rates. There was no financial impact in the reporting period as a result of this change. (ii) Reclassification of controlled and administered accumulated surplus: The department had no assets and liabilities requiring reclassification between controlled and administered for 2002–03. In 2001–02 the department reclassified minor transactions from controlled to administered to more accurately represent the nature of controlled and administered transactions under AAS 29 Financial Reporting by Government Departments. The financial impact of this change was a reclassification of liabilities of $0.102 million from controlled to administered and a net transfer of opening accumulated surplus at 1 July 2001 of $0.047 million from controlled to administered to reflect the net movement of liabilities at this date (refer Note 18c). (iii) Establishment of an opening balance for controlled contributed capital: For the reporting period ending 30 June 2002, the department has deemed its controlled accumulated surplus (excluding accumulated surpluses from appropriations and trust fund activities) of $1,700.673 million as the opening balance for contributed capital. This accounting treatment is to comply with Urgent Issues Group Abstract 38 Contributions by Owners Made to Wholly- Owned Public Sector Entities and Accounting and Financial Reporting Bulletin No. 39 Accounting for Contributed Capital and No. 40 Establishment of Opening Balances and Formal Designation for Contributed Capital. The change in accounting policy has resulted in the recognition, in the statement of financial position, as at 1 July 2001 of an opening balance of $1,700.637 million as contributed capital (refer Note 18c). (z) Comparatives Where practicable, comparative amounts are presented and classified on a basis consistent with the current year. Where Output Groups have been transferred to the department from other departments as a result of the administrative restructure announced on 5 December 2002, comparative financial data for these Output Groups is not available.
Note 2. Output groups of the department Strategic priorities, output groups and key government outcomes of the department The government’s strategic priorities for sustainability and environment in Victoria are: • Contribute to the sustainable economic growth of Victoria’s land and resource based industries while balancing social, environmental and economic outcomes; • Reduce the impact of human activity in Victoria on the environment; • Support the commitment and capability of Victorians to live and manage sustainably within the landscape; • Better understand biodiversity values and improve knowledge of the way ecosystems function to assist Victorians to live and work within the capacity of the environment; and •Provide a safe and ecologically sustainable living environment through protection and restoration of air, land and water quality and the control of unwanted noise. The department delivers these strategic priorities through eleven output groups that have been structured to meet the key government outcomes embodied in the strategic priorities. A description of each output group of the department during the year ended 30 June 2003, together with the outcomes expected of that group are summarised on the following pages.
103 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Aboriginal Reconciliation and Respect (transferred to the Department of Victorian Communities effective 31 December 2002) Description This output group involves the consolidation of partnerships with the Aboriginal peoples of Victoria to develop strategies and provide programs that: •support the aspirations of Aboriginal people and communities for land, culture and natural resources; • heal the past; • build an Aboriginal future through economic, social and community development; and • improve the relationship between Aboriginal peoples, the government and the wider community. Departmental objectives to which the output group contributes • Support the commitment and capability of Victorians to live and manage sustainably within the landscape. Agriculture (transferred to Department of Primary Industries effective 31 December 2002) Description This output group delivers strategic services to the food and agriculture sector and the wider community to continue strong economic growth (especially in exports), improve natural resources and enhance social well being. The services provided include the development of sustainable farming systems that are productive and protect the environment and biodiversity; enhanced biosecurity, pest, disease and disaster management; product integrity, food safety and quality assurance; chemical residue risk management; animal welfare protection; market and trade development; business and value chain facilitation; land and natural resource management information; research and development (enabling technologies and products); and on-farm management and social capability building programs, industry training and skills development and information services. These services address key growth, environmental and social challenges across the agriculture value-chain from natural resource management, farm production, food processing through to food safety for consumers. Departmental objectives to which the output group contributes • Contribute to sustainable economic growth of Victoria’s land and resource based industries while balancing social, environmental, and economic outcomes; • Reduce the impact of human activity in Victoria on the environment; • Support the commitment and capability of Victorians to live and manage sustainably within the landscape; and • Better understand biodiversity values and improve knowledge of the way ecosystems function to assist Victorians to live and work within the capacity of the environment. Balanced Planning and Environmental System (transferred from the Department of Infrastructure effective 31 December 2002) Description This output group involves the provision of a world class planning system that supports development across the state in accordance with triple bottom line principles, and which is fair, transparent, accountable, cost effective and provides certainty to users. Partnerships between community, local government and business will also characterise the system. This also involves the facilitation of residential, commercial and industrial developments, and the provision of urban design, heritage, environmental assessment services and programs. Departmental objectives to which the output group contributes • Enhance the livability of communities across Victoria; and • Develop a stronger and more effective local government sector in Victoria that is responsive to community expectations and provides leadership at the local level.
104 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Catchment and Water Description This output group uses a strong partnership approach involving communities, statutory authorities and government to achieve healthy rivers and catchments which protect and enhance the environment while supporting sustainable and more productive resource industries and regional communities. Departmental objectives to which the output group contributes • Contribute to sustainable economic growth of Victoria’s land and resource based industries while balancing social, environmental, and economic outcomes; • Reduce the impact of human activity in Victoria on the environment; and • Support the commitment and capability of Victorians to live and manage sustainably within the landscape. Conservation and Recreation Description This output group involves integrated services which deliver key aspects of the government’s conservation and recreation policy agenda to ensure Victoria’s natural assets are enjoyed by both current and future generations. In particular, assisting land managers to maintain and improve biodiversity conservation, management of the parks and reserves system, local ports, coastal reserves and the alpine resorts, and provisions of opportunities for recreation, tourism and environmental education and research. Departmental objectives to which the output group contributes • Reduce the impact of human activity in Victoria on the environment; • Support the commitment and capability of Victorians to live and manage sustainably within the landscape; and • Better understand biodiversity values and improve knowledge of the way ecosystems function to assist Victorians to live and work within the capacity of the environment. Energy and Greenhouse Policy Advice (the energy related activities of this output group were transferred to the Department of Infrastructure effective 31 December 2002) Description This output group involves the development and implementation of policy in relation to the government’s greenhouse response and to deliver a secure and cost effective energy supply. Departmental objectives to which the output group contributes • Contribute to sustainable economic growth of Victoria’s land and resource based industries while balancing social, environmental, and economic outcomes; and • Reduce the impact of human activity in Victoria on the environment. Fisheries (transferred to Department of Primary Industries effective 31 December 2002) Description This output group provides sustainable development of Victoria’s regional, commercial, recreational and aquaculture fishing industries and management of Victoria’s marine and freshwater fish resources. Departmental objectives to which the output group contributes • Contribute to sustainable economic growth of Victoria’s land and resource based industries while balancing social, environmental, and economic outcomes; and • Support the commitment and capability of Victorians to live and manage sustainably within the landscape.
105 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Forest and Fire Management Description This output group involves the sustainable management of state forests for a range of productive, conservation and recreation uses and to ensure integrated management of fire and fire-related activities on public land for the purpose of protecting human life, property, assets and environmental values, and for sustaining biological diversity. Departmental objectives to which the output group contributes • Contribute to sustainable economic growth of Victoria’s land and resource based industries while balancing social, environmental, and economic outcomes; • Reduce the impact of human activity in Victoria on the environment; • Support the commitment and capability of Victorians to live and manage sustainably within the landscape; and • Better understand biodiversity values and improve knowledge of the way ecosystems function to assist Victorians to live and work within the capacity of the environment. Land Management and Information Description This output group involves the promotion of sustainable economic growth and community confidence through land administration and land management systems (for both Crown and freehold land) that are integrated, accessible, authoritative and coordinated to facilitate land related transactions, and to ensure good management of the state’s interest in Crown land. Departmental objectives to which the output group contributes • Contribute to sustainable economic growth of Victoria’s land and resource based industries while balancing social, environmental, and economic outcomes; and • Support the commitment and capability of Victorians to live and manage sustainably within the landscape. Minerals and Petroleum (transferred to Department of Primary Industries effective 31 December 2002) Description This output group involves the stimulation of the generation of wealth through the sustainable development of Victoria’s earth resources by regulating and promoting the exploration and development of Victoria’s extractive, mineral and petroleum resources leading to: • the establishment of new producing operations; • safe and environmentaly responsible operations; •secure and competitive sources of gas supply; and • extractive industry products. Departmental objectives to which the output group contributes • Contribute to sustainable economic growth of Victoria’s land and resource based industries while balancing social, environmental, and economic outcomes.
106 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Strategic Land Use and Infrastructure Planning (transferred from the Department of Infrastructure effective 31 December 2002) Description This output group involves the planned delivery of land use and infrastructure strategies aimed to improve the economic and social capacity of Victoria. Key elements include integrated transport planning linked to regional land use development, integrated metropolitan land use and transport planning, strategies for metropolitan and rural sub-regions and development of a forward infrastructure investment strategy. They also include support and advice to the Infrastructure Planning Council. Departmental objectives to which the output group contributes • Public Safety: Improve transport and marine safety and reduce the incidence, severity and cost of accidents and incidents; • Regional Development: Enhance the potential for regional development and access to services and markets; • Seamless Freight and Logistics Systems: Deliver an integrated and seamless freight and logistics system that enhances global competitiveness and meets the needs of business; •Travel Mobility and Access: Deliver a sustainable transport system that meets peoples changing access and mobility needs; • Liveable Communities: Enhance the liveability of communities across Victoria; and • Infrastructure Delivery and Management: Deliver cost effective investment in and management of infrastructure development in Victoria. Changes in Outputs Effective 31 December 2002 the following output groups of the department were transferred to the newly created Department of Primary Industries in their entirety: • Minerals and Petroleum, • Fisheries, and • Agriculture. The Energy Policy section of the Energy and Greenhouse Policy output group was transferred to the Department of Infrastructure at 31 December 2002. The Aboriginal Reconciliation and Respect output group and the Social Programs of the Corporate Management Division were transferred to the Department for Victorian Communities at 31 December 2002. The revenue and expenses of the above output groups to 31 December 2002 have been included. All assets and liabilities for these groups have been transferred as at 31 December 2002. Effective 31 December 2002 the Balanced Planning and Environmental System output group and the Strategic Land Use and Infrastructure Planning output group, were transferred into the Department of Sustainability and Environment from the Department of Infrastructure. In addition to departmental operations, the department undertakes further activities on behalf of the government. These administered transactions are reported in the notes to the financial statements. These administered transactions give rise to revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities and are determined on an accruals basis. Administered revenues include fees from regulatory bodies. Administered liabilities include government expenses incurred and expected to be paid during the 2002–2003 financial year. Administered assets include government revenues earned and expected to be collected during the 2002–2003 financial year. Departmental transactions are disclosed by class and by output group in the following schedules.
107 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Output groups schedule – controlled revenue and expenses for the year ended 30 June 2003
Aboriginal Reconciliation Agriculture* Balanced Planning Catchment Conservation Energy & and Respect* and Environmental And Water and Recreation Greenhouse System** Policy Advice* 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Revenue Output appropriation 4,387 9,789 96,033 168,078 24,104 – 187,988 167,425 154,867 109,442 30,142 22,129 Resources received free of charge or ––––––––– 10 – – for nominal consideration Other revenue 108 (11) 12,152 27,034 2,011 – 1,429 1,913 88,466 82,166 32 14 Total revenue 4,495 9,778 108,185 195,112 26,115 – 189,417 169,338 243,333 191,618 30,174 22,143
Expenses Employee benefits (1,820) (3,318) (49,853) (90,861) (10,583) – (35,876) (43,538) (21,972) (20,034) (948) (2,025) Supplies and services (1,071) (3,412) (36,502) (71,945) (5,613) – (60,805) (37,334) (119,501) (26,494) (2,980) (4,827) Resources provided free of charge or – – (19) (11) – – (11) (6) (1,571) (1,646) – – for nominal consideration Depreciation and amortisation (38) (91) (3,224) (6,515) (555) – (682) (1,044) (9,145) (8,000) (19) (18) Transfer payments, grants and subsidies (1,666) (4,164) (16,999) (13,047) (7,825) – (94,842) (86,268) (129,697) (123,500) (26,133) (15,179) Capital asset charge (25) (147) (5,068) (9,828) (506) – (842) (882) (14,731) (14,073) (25) (17) Total expenses (4,620) (11,132) (111,665) (192,207) (25,082) – (193,058) (169,072) (296,617) (193,747) (30,105) (22,066)
Net results (125) (1,354) (3,480) 2,905 1,033 – (3,641) 266 (53,284) (2,129) 69 77 Net increase (decrease) in asset revaluation reserve – – (9,794) 13,245 69,152 – 55,055 4,723 143,724 4,702 3,765 73 Total changes in equity other than those resulting from transactions with Victorian State Government in its capacity as owner. (125) (1,354) (13,274) 16,150 70,185 – 51,414 4,989 90,440 2,573 3,834 150 * 2003 relates to the 6 month period ended 31 December 2002. ** 2003 relates to the 6 month period ended 30 June 2003.
108 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Output groups schedule – controlled revenue and expenses for the year ended 30 June 2003
Fisheries* Forest and Land Management Minerals and Strategic Land Use Total Fire Management and Information Petroleum* and Infrastructure Planning** 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Revenue Output appropriations 14,345 28,929 334,287 190,444 101,424 93,367 10,846 16,523 4,267 – 962,690 806,126 Resources received free of charge or – – – – 5 5,906 – – – – 5 5,916 for nominal consideration Other revenue 1,514 4,356 5,171 5,948 14,270 5,541 200 963 138 – 125,491 127,924 Total revenue 15,859 33,285 339,458 196,392 115,699 104,814 11,046 17,486 4,405 – 1,088,186 939,966
Expenses Employee benefits (8,439) (15,170) (96,626) (59,708) (47,505) (47,967) (5,741) (9,291) (2,385) – (281,748) (291,912) Supplies and services (5,470) (14,825) (195,685) (114,787) (58,078) (42,580) (3,055) (4,931) (430) – (489,190) (321,135) Resources provided free of charge or (3) (2) (16) (5) (272) (2) (2) – – – (1,894) (1,672) for nominal consideration Depreciation and amortisation (365) (701) (7,329) (8,729) (6,819) (3,474) (616) (1,293) (154) – (28,946) (29,865) Transfer payments, grants and subsidies (1,047) (1,649) (3,740) (1,113) (4,366) (4,245) (1,672) (637) (328) – (288,315) (249,802) Capital assets charge (526) (772) (40,098) (40,780) (2,384) (1,470) (139) (261) (138) – (64,482) (68,230) Total expenses (15,850) (33,119) (343,494) (225,122) (119,424) (99,738) (11,225) (16,413) (3,435) – (1,154,575) (962,616)
Net result 9 166 (4,036) (28,730) (3,725) 5,076 (179) 1,073 970 – (66,389) (22,650) Net increase (decrease) in asset revaluation reserve (4,204) 5,097 (272,669) (112,257) 149,915 2,080 790 (286) 37,106 – 172,840 (82,623) Total changes in equity other than those resulting from transactions with Victorian State Government in its capacity as owner. (4,195) 5,263 (276,705) (140,987) 146,190 7,156 611 787 38,076 – 106,451 (105,273) * 2003 relates to the 6 month period ended 31 December 2002. ** 2003 relates to the 6 month period ended 30 June 2003.
109 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Output group schedule – controlled assets and liabilities for the reporting period ended 30 June 2003
Aboriginal Reconciliation Agriculture* Balanced Planning Catchment Conservation Energy & and Respect* and Environmental And Water and Recreation Greenhouse System** Policy Advice* 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Assets Current – 558 – 39,103 1,652 – 11,728 18,011 28,965 31,449 287 615 Non-current – 962 – 181,599 38,782 – 13,788 17,455 1,479,821 1,355,558 497 426 Self-generating and regenerating – – – 2,428 – – – –––– – Total assets – 1,520 – 223,130 40,434 – 25,516 35,466 1,508,786 1,387,007 784 1,041
Liabilities Current – (461) – (16,195) (1,958) – (6,321) (12,677) (3,991) (5,065) (255) (1,044) Non-current – (116) – (29,894) (3,130) – (3,856) (10,980) (5,932) (5,524) (141) (159) Total liabilities – (577) – (46,089) (5,088) – (10,177) (23,657) (9,923) (10,589) (396) (1,203) Net assets/(liabilities) – 943 – 177,041 35,346 – 15,339 11,809 1,498,863 1,376,418 388 (162)
Fisheries* Forest and Land Management Minerals and Strategic Land Use Total Fire Management and Information Petroleum* and Infrastructure Planning** 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Assets Current – 5,233 35,557 32,351 23,170 29,994 – 3,383 138 – 101,497 160,697 Non-current – 16,955 995,296 980,989 593,560 587,409 – 17,067 2,167 – 3,123,911 3,158,420 Self-generating and regenerating assets – – 258,162 280,337 – – – – – – 258,162 282,765 Total assets – 22,188 1,289,015 1,293,677 616,730 617,403 – 20,450 2,305 – 3,483,570 3,601,882 Liabilities Current – (2,722) (11,547) (11,870) (12,057) (11,448) – (1,945) (818) – (36,947) (63,427) Non-current – (3,721) (13,808) (12,012) (15,014) (13,803) – (4,150) (503) – (42,384) (80,359) Total liabilities – (6,443) (25,355) (23,882) (27,071) (25,251) – (6,095) (1,321) – (79,331) (143,786) Net assets/(liabilities) – 15,745 1,263,660 1,269,795 589,659 592,152 – 14,355 984 – 3,404,239 3,458,096 * 2003 relates to the 6 month period ended 31 December 2002. ** 2003 relates to the 6 month period ended 30 June 2003. 110 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 3. Restructuring of administrative arrangements 2003 – for the financial year ended 30 June 2003 Assets have been relinquished by the department as a result of the transfer of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Minerals and Petroleum output groups to the Department of Primary Industries. The relinquished assets were recognised in the statement of financial position at the carrying amount of those assets in the transferor’s (Department of Sustainability and Environment) statement of financial position immediately prior to the transfer. The Department of Primary Industries has recognised revenue of $216.8 million and expenses of $186.0 million during the reporting period ended 30 June 2003 in respect of the transferred output groups. The total revenues and expenses recognised by the Department of Sustainability and Environment in relation to these outputs for the period ended 31 December 2002 were $135.09 million and $138.74 million respectively. Additional services are provided by Catchment and Agricultural Services division of the Department of Primary Industries in achieving the Catchment and Water output objectives. Total revenues and expenses relating to this are $29.2 million and $21.8 million respectively. Assets have been relinquished by the department as a result of the transfer of the “Aboriginal Reconciliation and Respect” output group and the Social Programs of the Corporate Management Division to the Department for Victorian Communities. The relinquished assets were recognised in the statement of financial position at the carrying amount of those assets in the transferor’s (Department of Sustainability and Environment) statement of financial position immediately prior to the transfer. The Department for Victorian Communities has recognised revenue of $9.046 million and expenses of $8.398 million during the reporting period 1 January 2003 to 30 June 2003 in respect of the transferred output groups. The total revenues and expenses recognised by the Department of Sustainability and Environment in relation to these outputs for the period ended 31 December 2002 were $4.495 million and $4.620 million respectively. Assets have been relinquished by the department as a result of the transfer of the Energy Policy section of the Energy and Greenhouse Policy output group to the Department of Infrastructure. The relinquished assets were recognised in the statement of financial position at the carrying amount of those assets in the transferor’s (Department of Sustainability and Environment) statement of financial position immediately prior to the transfer. The Department of Infrastructure has recognised revenue of $0.237million and expenses of $0.237 million during the reporting period ended 30 June 2003 in respect of the transferred output groups. The total revenues and expenses recognised by the Department of Sustainability and Environment in relation to these outputs for the peroid ended 31 December 2002 were $3.157 million and $3.157 million respectively. Assets assumed by the department as a result of the transfer of the Balanced Planning and Environmental System output group and the Strategic Land Use and Infrastructure Planning output group from the Department of Infrastructure assets were recognised in the statement of financial position at the carrying amount of those assets in the transferor’s (Department of Infrastructure) statement of financial position immediately prior to the transfer. Net assets transferred were treated as a contribution of capital by the Crown in compliance with the accounting requirements of Urgent Issues Group Abstract 38 Contributions by Owners Made to Wholly-Owned Public Sector Entities and the Accounting and Reporting Financial Reporting Bulletin No 38 Accounting for Contributed Capital. The Department of Sustainability and Environment has recognised revenue of $30.520 million and expenses of $28.517 million during the reporting period ended 30 June 2003, in respect of the Balanced Planning and Environmental System output group and the Strategic Land Use and Infrastructure Planning output group. The total revenues and expenses recognised by the Department of Infrastructure in respect of these output groups for the reporting period 1 July to 31 December 2002 are $28.468 million and $34.632 million respectively.
111 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
In respect of the activities assumed, the following assets and liabilities were recognised: 2003 2003 $’000 $’000 Output – Balanced Planning and Environmental System Assets Cash 2,112 Intangibles 494 Property, plant and equipment 34,047 Other 982 37,635 Liabilities Employee benefits (4,556) (4,556) Net capital contribution from the Crown 33,079
Output – Strategic Land Use and Infrastructure Planning Assets Intangibles 88 Property, plant and equipment 183 271 Liabilities Employee benefits (856) (856) Net capital contribution from the Crown (585)
Total net capital contribution from the Crown 32,494
In respect of the activities relinquished, the following assets and liabilities were transferred: Output – Aboriginal Reconciliation and Respect Assets Cash 1,130 Intangibles 143 Property, plant and equipment 243 Other 314 1,830 Liabilities Employee benefits (235) Other (343) (578) Net capital contribution to the Crown 1,252
112 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
2003 2003 $’000 $’000 Output – Agriculture Assets Cash 10,175 Other assets 18,769 Property, plant and equipment 170,170 199,114 Liabilities Creditors and accruals (9,488) Employee benefits (36,899) (46,387) Net capital contribution to the Crown 152,727
NRE-DPI Corporate Unit Assets Cash 110 Other assets 26,316 Property, plant and equipment 6,098 32,524 Liabilities Creditors and accruals (130) Employee benefits (74) (204) Net capital contribution to the Crown 32,320
Program – Energy Policy Assets Other 219 219 Liabilities Employee benefits (205) Other (14) (219) Net capital contribution to the Crown –
113 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
2003 2003 $’000 $’000 Output – Fisheries Assets Cash 1,077 Other assets 129 Property, plant and equipment 13,232 14,438 Liabilities Creditors and accruals (147) Employee benefits (4,760) (4,907) Net capital contribution to the Crown 9,531
Output – Minerals and Petroleum Assets Cash 677 Other assets 824 Property, plant and equipment 4,603 Intangibles 9,766 15,870 Liabilities Creditors and accruals (2,086) Employee benefits (2,403) (4,489) Net capital contribution to the Crown 11,381
Program – Social (community programs) Assets Other 184 184 Liabilities Employee benefits (180) Other (4) (184) Net capital contribution to the Crown – Net capital contribution to the Crown 207,211
Total net capital contribution to/(from) the Crown 174,717
114 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
2002 – for the financial year ended 30 June 2002 On 1 December 2001 Melbourne Parks and Waterways was abolished and all assets and liabilities, rights and obligations transferred to the Department of Sustainability and Environment, in accordance with Section 186 of the Water Industry (Amendment) Act 2000. Melbourne Parks and Waterways had recognised expenses and revenues amounting to $5.478 million and $6.630 million respectively during the reporting period 1 July 2001 to 30 November 2001. Assets and liabilities transferred to the Department of Sustainability and Environment are recognised at the carrying amount of those assets in Melbourne Parks and Waterways statement of financial position immediately prior to the transfer. The transfer of assets and liabilities were designated by the Minister for Environment and Conservation on 30 November 2001 as a redemption of contributed capital to the Crown by Melbourne Parks and Waterways and a contribution of capital by the Crown to the Department of Sustainability and Environment.
In respect of the activities assumed, the following assets and liabilities were recognised: 2002 2002 $’000 $’000 Output – Conservation and Recreation Assets Cash 891 – Other assets 15 – Property, plant and equipment 652,885 653,791 Liabilities Creditors and accruals (714) (714) Net capital contribution from the Crown 653,077
Note 4. Revenue Revenue by source Operating Non-operating 2003 2002 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 (a) Revenue from government Output appropriations 962,690 806,126 – – Additions to net assets appropriations – – – – Resources received free of charge or for nominal consideration – – 5 5,916 962,690 806,126 5 5,916
(b) Revenue from other parties User charges and fees 26,858 40,693 – – Other revenues 93,214 83,415 5,419 3,816 120,072 124,108 5,419 3,816
115 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 5. Summary of compliance with annual parliamentary appropriations (a) Summary of compliance with annual parliamentary appropriations The following table discloses the details of the various Parliamentary Appropriations received by the department for the year. In accordance with accrual output-based management procedures ‘Provision for outputs’ and ‘Additions to net assets’ are disclosed as ‘controlled’ activities of the department. Administered transactions are those that are undertaken on behalf of the state over which the department has no control or discretion. As at 30 June 2003 As at 30 June 2002 (comparatives)
Appropriation Act Administrative Financial Manangement Act 1994 Arrangements Act 1983 Annual Payments Section 3(2) Section 4 Section 29 Section 30 Section 32 Section 35 Total Appropriations Variance Appropriation from Parliamentary Applied Advance to Authority Treasurer ($’000) ($’000) ($’000) ($’000) ($’000) ($’000) ($’000) ($’000) ($’000) ($’000) ($’000) Controlled Provision of outputs 835,099 186,300 – (98,474) 87,213 (18,377) 47,829 – 1,039,590 962,690 76,900 724,909 9,772 13,873 – 108,647 (13,022) 51,892 – 896,071 806,126 89,945 Additions to net assets 68,554 – – (41,739) – 18,112 26,157 267 71,351 30,557 40,794 39,457 – – – – 12,856 14,579 – 66,892 40,235 26,657
Administered Payments made on behalf of the State 1,300 –– – ––––1,3001,300– 1,954 118,000 – – – (554) – – 119,400 119,382 18 State contribution under the 21,500 –– – ––––21,50021,016484 Murray Darling Basin Act 1993 17,234 – – – – 654 – – 17,888 17,741 147 Total 926,453 186,300* – (140,213) 87,213 (265) 73,986 267 1,133,741 1,015,563 118,178 783,554 127,772 13,873 – 108,647 (66) 66,471 – 1,100,251 983,484 116,767 *During the reporting period the department received Treasurers Advances for the fire season, seal rocks and a range of other activities.
116 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Payments for outputs The major areas contributing to the variance of $76.9 million in payments for outputs appropriations were: •Approval of projects for the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality is dependent on completion and accreditation of regional catchment strategies for each catchment region by the Commonwealth. Delays were experienced in obtaining approval for projects by the Joint Steering Committee resulting in the delayed start of a number of the projects under the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality and funding has been carried forward to the 2003–04 financial year to continue these projects. • Finalisation of the Victorian Greenhouse Strategy was delayed initially as a result of the Victorian State Election in November 2002. Further delays resulted from the extended drought conditions and the extraordinary bushfire season. Following finalisation of the strategy, progress towards its implementation advanced well and funding has been carried over to continue implementation of the strategy in 2003–04. • Payments to saw millers under the Forest Industry Structural Adjustment Program were delayed as predetermined milestones had not been achieved by 30 June 2003. Funding has been carried forward to continue the program in 2003–04. •A high proportion of projects funded through the Miscellaneous Industry Fund were delayed due to staff being unavailable while engaged in emergency fire response activities during the extended fire season. Funding has been carried forward to enable these projects to be completed in 2003–04. •Progress on converting land title plans to an electronic format under the Titles Automation Project was slower than planned as resources were required to meet the demands of the continued high volume of land dealings resulting from the prolonged buoyant property market, and reducing the backlog of property transactions in line with the demand management initiative. Additions to net assets The major areas contributing to the variance of $40.8 million in additions to net assets appropriations were: • The acquisition and development phase for the various sub-projects of the Land Exchange project were slower to progress than expected as they were more complex than initially thought. Progress is expected to accelerate in 2003–04 and funding has been carried forward to continue the development of the Land Exchange project. • The New Town Sewerage project experienced delays due to difficulties in finalising tenders for the various projects being undertaken in the Regional Urban Water Authority’s areas of the state. •A transfer of the responsibility for administering components of the Piping System project in the Wimmera-Mallee from rural water authorities to the department resulted in delays for extending the pipelines and completion of the component managed by the department is expected to occur in 2003–04. •Progress on the Casey’s Weir project under the Restoring Environmental Flows to the Snowy Initiative was slower than expected due to a community consultation process. The impact of the drought has also impacted on progress resulting in the deferral of the implementation of the project to 2003–04. •Progress on the department’s Central Business District accommodation consolidation was delayed as a result of the restructuring of the department following the announcement of machinery of government changes after the state election in November 2002. Finalisation of the project is expected to occur in 2003–04 and funding has been carried forward accordingly. • Planning – The Sandridge Bridge project was delayed as a result of a change in the future of the bridge to be redeveloped as a pedestrian and cycle link and this required renegotiation with the Melbourne City Council to obtain approval for these plans.
117 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 6. Result from ordinary activities 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Net gains/losses and expenses Result from ordinary activities includes the following specific net gains/losses and expenses:
Net gains/(losses) Net gain/(loss) on disposal* Property, plant and equipment (11,247) (4,792) *(included in general expenses, stock and materials under supplies and services in the expense section below)
Expenses Depreciation: Buildings and structures 8,336 8,201 Plant, machinery and equipment 12,653 16,261 Roads infrastructure 2,861 2,936 Total depreciation 23,850 27,398
Amortisation: Buildings leasehold improvements 193 231 Software 4,903 2,236 Total amortisation 5,096 2,467 Total depreciation and amortisation 28,946 29,865
Charges against assets Bad and doubtful debts* 284 430 *(included in general expenses, stock and materials under supplies and services in the following expense section)
118 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Supplies and services Contract and professional services 139,296 85,553 Contractor logging expenses 3,209 20,031 Equipment maintenance and hire 71,000 32,053 General expenses, stock and materials 70,470 61,259 Laboratory, farm and livestock expenses 10,666 17,291 Office and accommodation 73,019 70,523 Settlement of legal dispute* 45,372 – Asset write-downs 53,983 5,693 Reduction in self-generating and regenerating assets 22,175 28,732 Total supplies and services 489,190 321,135 *The legal settlement resulted from a decision by a court appointed independent arbitrator in relation to a dispute between the State and the private operators of the former Seal Rocks Sealife Centre.
Transfer payments, grants and subsidies Large portfolio entities 177,920 150,470 Other portfolio entities 37,285 30,381 External organisations and individuals 73,110 68,951 Total transfer payments, grants and subsidies 288,315 249,802
Borrowing costs expense Interest and finance charges* 1 232 *(included in general expenses, stock and materials under supplies and services in the expense section above)
Employee benefits Salary and wages 212,019 216,083 Superannuation 20,217 21,121 Annual leave and long services leave expense 27,554 30,950 Other on-costs (fringe benefits tax, payroll tax and Workcover levy) 21,958 23,758 Total employee benefits 281,748 291,912
119 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 7. Cash assets 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Cash at bank and on hand (11,248) (12,223) Funds held in trust – cash 47,925 69,632 Funds held in trust – short term deposits 300 5,379 36,977 62,788
The above figures are reconciled to cash at the end of the financial year as shown in the statement of cash flows as follows:
Balances as above 36,977 62,788 Balances per statement of cash flows 36,977 62,788 Cash at bank Due to the State of Victoria’s investment policy and government funding arrangements, government departments generally do not hold a large cash reserve in their bank accounts. Cash received by a department from the generation of revenue is generally paid into the state’s bank account, known as the Public Account. Similarly any departmental expenditure, including those in the form of cheques drawn by the department for the payment of goods and services to its suppliers and creditors are made via the Public Account. The process is such that, the Public Account would remit to the department the cash required for the amount drawn on the cheques. This remittance by the Public Account occurs upon the presentation of cheques by the department’s suppliers or creditors. The above funding arrangements often result in departments having a notional shortfall in the cash at bank representing unpresented cheques at the reporting date. At 30 June 2003, cash at bank includes the amount of a notional shortfall for the payment of unpresented cheques of $11.217 million ($11.234 million – 2002) Short-term deposits The deposits earn interest at floating interest rates currently at 4.35% and 4.77% (2002 – 3.25% and 5.5%).
120 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 8. Receivables 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Current Trade debtors 12,233 17,540 Less: provision for doubtful debts (522) (996) 11,711 16,544
Amounts owing from Victorian Government 18,428 50,198 Goods and services tax recoverable 7,860 8,211 Other debtors 4,584 508 42,583 75,461
Non Current Amounts owing from Victorian Government 7,157 15,502 Loans receivable 2,000 – 9,157 15,502
Aggregate carrying amount of receivables Current 42,583 75,461 Non-current 9,157 15,502 51,740 90,963 Loans receivable Loans receivable relate to advances of $1 million each to the City of Greater Bendigo and the City of Ballarat during the reporting period ended 30 June 1995 by the former Minister for Planning and Local Government. Responsibility for the management of these loans transferred to the Department of Sustainability and Environment from the Department of Infrastructure at 31 December 2002 as a result of the restructure of administrative arrangements.
121 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 9. Inventories 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Current Stock on hand of consumables – at cost Weedicides 111 433 Other stores and materials 3,118 3,168 Seed bank 2,198 2,062 5,427 5,663
The value of seed in the seed bank at 30 June was calculated on the basis of the cost of collection.
Stock on hand of items pending sale Publications – at cost 1,357 1,235 Logs in dumps – at valuation 1,059 907 2,416 2,142 7,843 7,805
Logs in dumps were valued at their net market value.
Aggregate carrying amount of inventories Current 7,843 7,805
Note 10. Other financial assets Funds invested with Treasury Corporation of Victoria 11,961 13,600
Non-traded investments Shares in other entities – at cost – 6 11,961 13,606 Funds invested with Treasury Corporation of Victoria Investments with Treasury Corporation of Victoria include funds from the Parks and Reserves Trust Fund, with interest earned accruing to this fund. Shares in other entities The department held 20,000 fully paid unlisted ordinary shares at 25 cents each and 5,000 fully paid listed ordinary shares at 20 cents each in SPC Holdings Limited. The shares were held for the purposes of qualifying for membership to sell fruit to SPC Limited, and were not held for trading/investment purposes. These shares are now the responsibility of the Department of Primary Industries.
122 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 11. Property, plant and equipment 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Land Crown land At independent valuation 1998 512,950 552,308
National parks At cost 6,464 5,541 At independent valuation 1999 (transfer from state forests in 2002) 21,691 21,691 At independent valuation 2000 354,241 354,241 At fair value upon transfer December 2001 – 335 382,396 381,808
State forests At independent valuation 2002 761,092 761,092
Conservation reserves At cost – 3,019 At independent valuation 2001 – 123,637 At independent valuation 2003 572,051 – 572,051 126,656
Metropolitan parks At fair value upon transfer December 2001 60,035 621,157 At independent valuation 2003 304,029 – 364,064 621,157
Land used for operational purposes At cost 29,039 185 At independent valuation 2002 8,472 66,977 37,511 67,162
Total land 2,630,064 2,510,183
123 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Buildings and structures At cost 77,212 62,052 At independent valuation 2002 106,963 166,739 At fair value upon transfer December 2001 – 31,288 Less accumulated depreciation (24,346) (21,338)
159,829 238,741 Buildings and structures – construction in progress 16,615 30,127 Total buildings and structures 176,444 268,868
Roads At cost 67 17 At valuation 2002 – 229,935 At valuation 2003 225,003 – Less accumulated depreciation (10,917) (8,013) 214,153 221,939 Roads – construction in progress 9,666 8,970 Total roads 223,819 230,909
Plant and equipment At cost 84,193 171,449 Less accumulated depreciation (43,265) (94,304) Total plant and equipment 40,928 77,145
Total 3,071,255 3,087,105
124 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Reconciliations Reconciliations of the carrying amounts of each class of property, plant and equipment at the beginning and end of the current financial year are set out below.
Crown land National State Conservation Metropolitan Land used for Buildings Roads Plant Total Parks Forests Reserves Parks departmental and and operations Structures Equipment 2003 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Carrying amount at start of year 552,308 381,808 761,092 126,656 621,157 67,162 268,868 230,909 77,145 3,087,105 Additions 2,260 2,153 – 613 – 2,867 34,939 1,698 14,599 59,129 Disposals (10,322) ––––(585)––(1,185) (12,092) Reclassification to land held for sale from Crown land (refer note 13 ‘Other assets’) 3,114––––––––3,114 Net transfers from/(to) other agencies (2,969) ––––––––(2,969) Net transfers free of charge (262) (1,565) ––––5–(63) (1,885) Net transfers upon administrative restructure (466) ––––(31,933) (104,828) (10) (22,879) (160,116) Revaluation increments/(decrements) 528 – – 444,782 (257,093) – (14,011) (5,917) – 168,289 Recognition/(write down) of assets (31,241) –––––––(14,036) (45,277) Depreciation/amortisation expense ––––––(8,529) (2,861) (12,653) (24,043) Carrying amount at end of year 512,950 382,396 761,092 572,051 364,064 37,511 176,444 223,819 40,928 3,071,255
125 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Crown land Crown land has been valued by the Valuer-General at 30 June 1998, with a number of parcels revalued at 30 June 1999, 30 June 2000 and 30 June 2001 by applying an average valuation for broad area rural improved land (cropping and grazing) and unimproved land (bushland and water) for each parish and township in the State of Victoria. A number of on-site valuations were performed by the Valuer-General and statisticians from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) verified that the results confirmed the accuracy of the average parish and township values. Crown land vested or controlled by locally elected committees of management has been valued in accordance with the above principles, and included in the value of Crown land. National parks and metropolitan parks The area of Public land set aside as national parks, which includes state parks, wilderness parks and other parks under the National Parks Act 1975 comprise a diverse range of lands permanently reserved for the benefit of the public. Valuer-General Victoria revalued all national parks progressively for the financial years ended 30 June 1999, 2000 and 2001. Metropolitan parks Valuer-General Victoria revalued these parks for the year ended 30 June 2003 by applying the principles of the ‘fair value’ concept. The method of valuation adopted considered the ‘market value in use’ which disregarded the possible alternative use of the asset. Other items considered were the restrictive nature of the use of the parkland and the overall size of the land. No account was taken of the tourism, recreational, grazing, water catchment values or mining/quarrying potential that the parks might have. No allowances were made for current or future claims for native title, disease or contamination issues. State forests State forests includes land under commercial native forest areas which is recognised separately from the value of the productive trees. Valuer-General Victoria revalued this land at 30 June 2002 in accordance with the principles of the ‘fair value’ concept. Conservation reserves Land conservation reserves include land parcels set aside for conservation of specific ecosystems, animal and plant species, geomorphological features, and significant historical and cultural qualities. Valuer-General Victoria revalued Land Conservation Reserves as at 30 June 2003 in accordance with the principles of the ‘fair value’ concept. Through the use of market sales analysis, the Valuer- General Victoria determined an average dollar rate per hectare for broad area rural improved land (cropping and grazing) and unimproved land (bushland and water) for each parish and township in the State of Victoria. Following adjustment for size and the ratio of rural improved and unimproved land comprising the parcel, the value for each parcel of crown land was determined by the application of the average dollar value per hectare for that parcel’s size. No account was made for any additional or higher development potential. Any perceived heritage, conservation or environmental values inherent in the reserves were disregarded. No allowances were made for current or future claims for native title, disease or contamination issues. Roads Roads are revalued as at 30 June each year by department engineers. Roads within each class are valued according to their condition relative to the replacement cost of the class of road. General The valuation methodology for Crown land, national parks and state forests does not take into account the intrinsic, environmental or economic worth of the assets or any theoretical subdivision, additional development or clearing. Significant buildings and structures Buildings and structures are revalued progressively over three years. Revaluations of operational buildings and structures in metropolitan parks were revalued by Valuer-General Victoria as at 30 June 2003 in accordance with the principles of the ‘fair value’ concept. Valuer-General Victoria carried out revaluations for operational buildings and structures at regional offices and depots sites at 30 June 2002, in accordance with the principles of the ‘fair value’ concept.
126 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 12. Intangible assets 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Software 43,503 22,355 Less accumulated amortisation 12,359 8,047 Written down value 31,144 14,308 Software – development in progress 8,180 34,154 39,324 48,462
Intangible assets includes the capitalised costs at 30 June 2003 and the costs of developing the software associated with the Titles Automation Project, State Digital Map Base and the Integrated Fire Information System. Reconciliations Reconciliations of the carrying amounts of other assets at the beginning and end of the current and previous financial year are set out below.
Carrying amount at start of year 48,462 43,960 Net transfer upon restructure (9,327) – Additions 5,092 5,762 Amortisation (4,903) (1,260) Carrying amount at end of year 39,324 48,462
Note 13. Other assets Current Land held for sale – at carrying amount 1,082 717
Non-current Land held for sale – at carrying amount 2,296 5,775 Other 1,879 1,576 4,175 7,351
Land held for sale represents the carrying amount of Crown land deemed surplus to the needs of the State. As Crown land is unalienated from the Crown it does not have a cost of acquisition. No development costs have been incurred in preparing this land for its sale. Other assets comprise items deemed worthy of preservation because of their historical, cultural or environmental significance. Valuation of other assets With the exception of land held for sale reported at its carrying amount, the basis of valuation of other assets is net realisable value. The latest revaluation at 30 June 2001 was based on independent assessment.
127 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Aggregate carrying amount of other assets Current 1,082 717 Non-current 4,175 7,351 5,257 8,068 Reconciliations Reconciliations of the carrying amounts of other assets at the beginning and end of the current and previous financial year are set out below.
Carrying amount at start of year 8,068 11,872 Additions (transfer of heritage assets from Department of Infrastructure) 303 – Reclassification of land held for sale to Crown land (3,114) (3,793) Disposals – (11) Carrying amount at end of year 5,257 8,068
Note 14. Natural resource assets Breeding livestock – 2,428 Commercial native forests 258,162 280,337 258,162 282,765
Productive trees in commercial native forests are valued at 30 June 2003 at the net present value of net cash flows expected to be generated from its produce on a sustainable yield basis over an 80-year life, discounted at a market-determined rate provided by the Department of Treasury and Finance of 8 per cent. Refer to Note 1 (a) Non-current assets and Note 1 (h) Self-generating and regenerating assets. Breeding livestock transferred to the Department of Primary Industries at 31 December 2002.
128 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 15. Payables 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Current liabilities Trade creditors 1,630 19,216 Advance from the Public Account 7,643 7,158 Other (includes fringe benefits tax, payroll tax, superannuation payable and accrued expenses) 12,079 8,552 21,352 34,926
Non-current liabilities Other creditors 2 1,920
Note 16. Interest bearing liabilities Non-current liabilities – unsecured Advances from Department of Treasury and Finance – 8,199
Advances were obtained from the Treasurer to fund compensation payments to eligible beneficiaries for diseased livestock. These advances were transferred to the Department of Primary Industries at 31 December 2002.
Note 17. Provisions Current Employee benefits Annual leave 12,499 21,515 Long service leave 2,106 3,325 Other 568 591 15,173 25,431
Non-current Employee benefits Long service leave 42,382 70,240 42,382 70,240
Aggregate carrying amount of provisions Current 15,173 25,431 Non-current 42,382 70,240 Employee benefits 57,555 95,671 129 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 18. Equity and movements in equity 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 (a) Reserves Asset revaluation reserve 1,032,166 859,326
Movements Asset revaluation reserve Balance at 1 July 859,326 941,949 Increment/(Decrement) on revaluation during the year resulting from: Crown land 528 (216) Conservation reserves 444,782 – Metropolitan parks (257,093) – State forest land – (120,874) Land used for departmental operations – 30,904 Roads (5,917) 76 Buildings and structures (9,460) 7,487 Balance at 30 June 1,032,166 859,326
(b) Contributed equity Balance 1 July 2,368,329 – Recognition of contributed capital at 1 July – 1,700,673 Capital contributions by the Victorian State Government (Refer Note 5) 30,557 40,235 Capital contributions of non current assets by the Victorian State Government 716 – Capital contributions transferred to portfolio entities (16,864) (25,656) Net capital contributions to the department 14,409 14,579 Net capital contributed upon restructure (Refer Note 3) (174,717) 653,077 Balance 30 June 2,208,021 2,368,329
130 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
2003 2002 $’000 $’000
(c) Accumulated surplus Accumulated surplus at the beginning of the financial year 230,441 1,953,615 Recognition of accumulated surplus as contributed capital at 1 July 2001 (Refer Note 1(y)) – (1,700,673) Adjustment between controlled and administered balances (Refer Note 1(y)) – 149 Adjusted accumulated surplus at beginning 230,441 253,091 Net result (66,389) (22,650) Accumulated surplus at end of the financial year 164,052 230,441
(i) Adjusted accumulated surplus at the beginning of the financial year. As a result of a change in the classification of liabilities between controlled and administered at 1 July 2001, the controlled accumulated surplus at the beginning has been adjusted accordingly:
Accumulated surplus at 1 July 230,441 252,942 Adjustments resulting from reclassification of assets and liabilities from controlled to administered: Payables – 102 Adjustment resulting from reclassification of previous years accumulated surplus from controlled to administered: – 47 Net increase/(decrease) to accumulated surplus at 1 July – 149 Adjusted accumulated surplus at 1 July 230,441 253,091
(d) Nature and purpose of reserves Asset revaluation reserve The asset revaluation reserve is used to record increments and decrements on the revaluation of non-current assets, as described in accounting policy note 1(h).
131 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
2003 2002 $’000 $’000 (e) Movements in equity Total equity at the beginning of the financial year 3,458,096 2,895,564 Net adjustments resulting from the reclassification of controlled and administered items – 149 Adjusted equity at the beginning of the financial year 3,458,096 2,895,713 Changes in equity recognised in the statement of financial performance Operating result (66,389) (22,650) (Decrease)/increase in asset revaluation reserve 172,840 (82,623) Total changes in equity recognised in the statement of financial performance 3,564,547 (105,273) Contributions of net equity from government (160,308) 667,656 Total equity at the end of the financial year 3,404,239 3,458,096
132 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 19. Financial instruments (a) Credit risk exposures The credit risk on financial assets of the department which have been recognised on the statement of financial position, other than shares, is generally the carrying amount, net of any provisions for doubtful debts. (b) Interest rate risk exposures The department’s exposure to interest rate risk and the effective weighted average interest rate by maturity periods is set out in the following table. For interest rates applicable to each class of asset or liability refer to individual notes to the financial statements. Exposures arise predominantly from assets and liabilities bearing variable interest rates as the department intends to hold fixed rate assets and liabilities to maturity.
Fixed interest maturing in: Floating 1 year Over 1 to More than Non-Interest Total interest rate or less 5 years 5 years Bearing 2003 Notes $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Financial assets Cash and deposits 7 300–––36,67736,977 Receivables 8 ––––51,74051,740 Other financial assets – investments 10 – 11,961–––11,961 300 11,961 – – 88,417 100,678
Weighted average interest rate 4.35% 4.77% Financial liabilities Payables 15 ––––13,71113,711 Deposits repayable ––––234234 Advances from government 15, 16 ––––7,6437,643 ––––21,58821,588
Weighted average interest rate Net financial assets (liabilities) 300 11,961 – – 66,829 79,090
133 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Fixed interest maturing in: Floating 1 year Over 1 To More than Non-Interest Total interest rate or less 5 years 5 years Bearing 2002 Notes $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Financial assets Cash and deposits 7 5,379–––57,40962,788 Receivables 8 ––––90,96390,963 Other financial assets – investments 10 – 13,600 – – 6 13,606 5,379 13,600 – – 148,378 167,357
Weighted average interest rate 4.35% 4.81% Financial liabilities Payables 15––––29,68829,688 Deposits repayable ––––217217 Advances from government 15, 16 – – 8,199 – 7,158 15,357 ––8,199 – 37,063 45,262
Weighted average interest rate 4.75% Net financial assets (liabilities) 5,379 13,600 (8,199) – 111,315 122,095
134 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
(c) Net fair value of financial assets and liabilities (i) On-balance sheet The net fair value of cash and cash equivalents and non-interest bearing monetary financial assets and financial liabilities of the department approximates their carrying amounts. The net fair value of other monetary financial assets and financial liabilities is based upon market prices where a market exists or by discounting the expected future cash flows by the current interest rates for assets and liabilities with similar risk profiles. The carrying amounts and net fair values of financial assets and liabilities at reporting date are:
2003 2002 Carrying Net fair Carrying Net fair amount value amount value $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 On-balance sheet financial instruments Financial assets Cash 36,677 36,677 57,409 57,409 Deposits 300 300 5,379 5,379 Receivables 11,711 11,711 16,544 16,544 Other debtors 40,029 40,029 74,419 74,419 Other financial assets – investments 11,961 11,961 13,606 13,606 Non-traded financial assets 100,678 100,678 167,357 167,357
Financial liabilities Trade creditors 1,630 1,630 19,216 19,216 Other creditors 12,081 12,081 10,472 10,472 Advances from government 7,643 7,643 15,357 15,357 Deposits repayable 234 234 217 217 Non-traded financial liabilities 21,588 21,588 45,262 45,262
None of the classes of financial assets and liabilities are readily traded on organised markets in standardised form. Net fair value is exclusive of costs which would be incurred on realisation of an asset, and inclusive of costs which would be incurred on settlement of a liability. (ii) Off-balance sheet The department’s expectation is that it does not have any potential financial liabilities which may arise from contingencies disclosed in Note 23. No material losses are anticipated in respect of any of the contingencies.
135 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 20. Ministers and accountable officers In accordance with the ministerial Directions issued by the Minister for Finance under the Financial Management Act 1994, the following disclosures are made regarding responsible persons for the reporting period. Names The persons who held the positions of Ministers and Accountable Officers in the department are as follows: Minister for Energy and Resources The Hon. Candy Broad MP 1 July 2002 to 5 December 2002 Minister for Environment and Conservation The Hon. Sherryl Garbutt MP 1 July 2002 to 5 December 2002 Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs The Hon. Keith Hamilton MP 1 July 2002 to 5 December 2002 Minister for Environment and Minister for Water The Hon. John Thwaites MP 5 December 2002 to 30 June 2003 Minister for Planning The Hon. Mary Delahunty 5 December 2002 to 30 June 2003
Secretary Ms. Chloe Munro 1 July 2001 to 4 December 2002 Secretary Prof. Lyndsay Neilson 5 December 2002 to 30 June 2003 Remuneration Remuneration received or receivable by the Accountable Officer in connection with the management of the department during the reporting period was in the range: 2003 2002 Income band No. No. $130,000 – 139,999 1 – $150,000 – 159,999 1 – $290,000 – 300,000 – 1
Amounts relating to Ministers are reported in the financial statements of the Department of Premier and Cabinet. Other transactions Other related transactions and loans requiring disclosure under the Directions of the Minister for Finance have been considered and there are no matters to report.
136 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 21. Remuneration of executives The numbers of executive officers, other than Ministers and the Accountable Officer, and their total remuneration during the reporting period are shown in the first two columns in the table below in their relevant income bands. The base remuneration of executive officers is shown in the third and fourth columns. Base remuneration is exclusive of bonus payments, long service leave payments, redundancy payments and retirement benefits. Several factors have affected the total remuneration of executives over the year including the machinery of government changes in December 2002. As a result executive numbers were split across Department of Sustainability and Environment, the Department of Primary Industries, the Department for Victorian Communities and the Department of Infrastructure. In addition, a number of executives transferred from the Department of Infrastructure to the Department of Sustainability and Environment. In addition to the machinery of government changes, retirements, resignations, secondments and retrenchments during the reporting period have impacted on the total remuneration figures.
Remuneration of executive officers Total remuneration Base remuneration 2003 2002 2003 2002 Income band No. No. No. No. Less than $100,000 38 13 40 19 $100,000 – 109,999 6 3 7 8 $110,000 – 119,999 6 11 8 17 $120,000 – 129,999 7 12 8 4 $130,000 – 139,999 8 5 5 6 $140,000 – 149,999 3 7 2 4 $150,000 – 159,999 2 8 1 3 $160,000 – 169,999 1 – 1 – $170,000 – 179,999 1 2 – 1 $200,000 – 210,000 – 1 – – Total Numbers 72 62 72 62 Total amount ($’000) $6,641 $7,562 $6,105 $6,351
The above table identifies in aggregate the total number of executive officers employed by the department between 1 July 2002 and 30 June 2003. This includes executive officers employed prior to the machinery of government administrative restructure which took effect at 31 December 2002 who subsequently transferred to other departments, and includes executive officers who transferred into the department after 31 December 2002. As of the 30 June 2003 the department employed 48 executive officers.
137 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 22. Remuneration of auditors 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Amounts received, or due and receivable, by the Victorian Auditor General’s Office for the audit of the department’s financial report: Paid as at 30 June 2003 45 105 Payable as at 30 June 2003 135 175
Note 23. Contingent liabilities Details and estimates of maximum amounts of contingent liabilities are as follows: Contingent losses Damages claims 1,143 3,058 Mining rehabilitation – 1,415 Public liability insurance claims 3,250 4,624 Breach of contract – 40 Other 1,740 1,835 6,133 10,972
The department has unquantifiable contingent liabilities comprising 20 native title claims made in relation to Victorian land and resources, 2 claims relating to personal injury, and 2 claims in relation to defective work. Mining rehabilitation claims transferred to the Department of Primary Industries at 31 December 2003.
138 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 24. Commitments for expenditure 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Capital commitments Capital expenditure contracted for at reporting date but not recognised in the financial report as liabilities, are payable as follows: Within one year 1,254 12,558 Later than one year but no later than five years 1,306 7,827 2,560 20,385
Operating leases Commitments for minimum lease payments in relation to non cancellable operating leases are payable as follows: Within one year 24,353 28,573 Later than one year but no later than five years 55,874 36,114 Later than five years 55,327 7,756 135,554 72,443
Other operating commitments Other operating commitments are contracts for services to be provided to the department to support the delivery of its outputs: Not later than one year 96,322 66,941 Later than one year but less than five years 21,211 46,934 117,533 113,875
Note 25. Employee benefits Employee entitlement liabilities Provision for employee benefits Current (Note 17) 15,173 25,431 Non-current (Note 17) 42,382 70,240 Aggregate employee benefit liability 57,555 95,671
As explained in note 1(s) (ii) the amounts for long service leave is measured at present value. The following assumptions were adopted in measuring present value: Long service leave Weighted average rates of increase in annual employee benefits to settlement of the liabilities 4.8% 6.9% Weighted average discount rates 4.7% 5.7% Weighted average terms to settlement of the liabilities 12 years 15 years
139 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Government employees’ superannuation fund No liability is recognised in the statement of financial position for the department’s share of the state’s unfunded superannuation liability. The state’s unfunded superannuation liability has been reflected in the financial statements of the Department of Treasury and Finance. However, superannuation contributions for the reporting period are included as part of salaries and associated costs in the statement of financial performance of the department. The name and details of the major employee superannuation funds and contributions made by the department are as follows: Fund Contribution Contribution for the Year for the Year 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Government Superannuation Scheme – revised and new 11,212 13,015 State Employee Retirement Benefit Fund 91 132 Water Industries Super Fund 41 23 Victorian superannuation fund – VicSuper Scheme 8,309 7,488 Emergency Services Superannuation Scheme 58 53 Various other 506 410 20,217 21,121
The bases for contributions are determined by the various schemes. All employees of the department are entitled to benefits on retirement, disability or death from the Government Employees’ Superannuation Fund. This fund provides defined lump sum benefits based on years of service and final average salary. The above amounts were measured as at 30 June of each year, or in the case of employer contributions they relate to the years ended 30 June.
Note 26. Administered items In addition to the specific departmental operations which are included in the statement of financial position, statement of financial performance and statement of cash flows, the department administers or manages activities on behalf of the state. The transactions relating to these state activities are reported as administered items in this note. Administered transactions give rise to revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities and are determined on an accrual basis. Administered revenues include taxes, fees and fines and the proceeds from the sale of administered surplus land and buildings. Administered liabilities include government expenses incurred but yet to be paid. Administered assets include government revenues earned but yet to be collected.
140 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Minerals Fisheries* Land Management Conservation Agriculture* Catchment and Petroleum* and Information And Recreation And Water 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Administered revenue Appropriations – payments on behalf of the state – – – – – – – – – – 21,016 17,741 Provision of services 8 8 4 161 198,816 163,648 – – 12 21 1 2 Regulatory fees and fines 213 551 387 6,567 2 28 2,430 1,803 25 8 – 3 Licences and leases 1,314 3,161 – (40) 4,641 4,556 5,387 5,980 1 2 4 5 Royalties 4,748 6,468 – – 7 21 – – – – – 238 Other revenue 111 193 635 8,001 10,995 7,673 1,800 4,201 14,557 34,822 72,280 60,727 Total 6,394 10,381 1,026 14,689 214,461 175,926 9,617 11,984 14,595 34,853 93,301 78,716
Administered expenses Payments made on behalf of the state – 5 – 10 11 29 5 12 – 57 21,123 18,607 Payments into the consolidated fund 6,002 9,486 2,051 14,183 202,945 183,576 9,476 11,195 17,893 32,982 72,374 49,796 Other expenses (35) (672) 19 74 (1,158) 16 (26) 164 (55) 1,091 120 307 Total 5,967 8,819 2,070 14,267 201,798 183,621 9,455 11,371 17,838 34,130 93,617 68,710
Revenue less expenses 427 1,562 (1,044) 422 12,663 (7,695) 162 613 (3,243) 723 (316) 10,006
Administered assets Cash in trust and investments – 4,472 – 37 301 115 130 46 – 220 109 152 Receivables – 2,608 – 1,783 4,400 3,596 629 481 – 18,113 10,712 11,307 Total – 7,080 – 1,820 4,701 3,711 759 527 – 18,333 10,821 11,459
Administered liabilities Creditors and accruals – 9 – 118 5 141 47 103 – 567 845 936 Deposits repayable – 259 – 2 – 9 (3) 2 – 8 4 6 Unearned revenue – 2,878 – 117 4,001 16,455 849 830 – 601 – 97 Total – 3,146 – 237 4,006 16,605 893 935 – 1,176 849 1,039 * 2003 relates to the 6 month period ended 31 December 2002.
141 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Aboriginal Forest & Fire Energy & Balanced Planning Strategic Land Use Department Reconciliation Management Greenhouse & Environmental & Infrastructure Total and Respect* Policy* System** Planning** 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Administered revenue Appropriations – payments on behalf of the state – – 1,300 1,383 – 118,000 – – – – 22,316 137,124 Provision of services – – – – – – – – – – 198,841 163,840 Regulatory fees and fines – – 3,934 3,828 – – – – – – 6,991 12,788 Licences and leases 1 – 793 827 – – 9 – – – 12,150 14,491 Royalties – – 23,745 24,353 – – – – – – 28,500 31,080 Other revenue – – 22,904 44,546 2 56 2,455 – (17) – 125,722 160,219 Total 1 – 52,676 74,937 2 118,056 2,464 – (17) – 394,520 519,542
Administered Expenses Payments made on behalf of the state – – 1,600 30 – 118,000 3 – 2 – 22,744 136,750 Payments into the consolidated fund 1 – 58,178 75,933 (5) 58 1,068 – (41) – 369,942 377,209 Other expenses – – (1,450) 1,286 – 8 (1) – (1) – (2,587) 2,274 Total 1 – 58,328 77,249 (5) 118,066 1,070 – (40) – 390,099 516,233
Revenue less expenses – – (5,652) (2,312) 7 (10) 1,394 – 23 – 4,421 3,309
Administered assets Cash in trust and investments – – 505 286 6 3 737 – 977 – 2,764 5,331 Receivables – – 9,097 15,230 21 4 889 – (97) – 25,651 53,122 Total – – 9,602 15,516 27 7 1,625 – 880 – 28,415 58,453
Administered liabilities Creditors and accruals – – 745 1,034 – – 990 – (6) – 2,626 2,908 Deposits repayable – – (8) 167 – – (4) – (2) – (13) 453 Unearned revenue – – 279 228 – – – – –5,129 21,206 Total – – 1,016 1,429 – – 986 – (8) – 7,742 24,567 * 2003 relates to the 6 month period ended 31 December 2002. ** 2003 relates to the 6 month period ended 30 June 2003.
142 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 27. Ex-gratia payments 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 The department made the following ex-gratia payments: Ex-gratia payments 12 1,989
These ex-gratia payments were mainly to recipients of the Forest Industry Structural Adjustment Program (FISAP).
Note 28. Events occurring after reporting date The department was not aware of any circumstances that had arisen, or information that had become available between 30 June 2003 and the date of final approval of this general purpose financial report that qualifies for inclusion as a post balance date event.
Note 29. Bonds and guarantees held in trust The department held no cash bonds and guarantees in trust at 30 June 2003 as these were transferred to the Department of Primary Industries at 31 December 2002. The purpose of holding these funds included providing security by the titleholders for the rehabilitation of mining and exploration sites when operations cease. Cash bonds and guarantees held in trust – 428
The department does not control these funds unless mining and extractive industry operators fail to rehabilitate the site(s). As a result these funds were administered Cash in Trust and were reported in Note 26.
143 Department of Sustainability and Environment
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2003
Note 30. Reconciliation of result for the reporting period to net cash inflow from operating activities 2003 2002 $’000 $’000 Net result for the reporting period (66,389) (22,650) Depreciation and amortisation 28,946 29,865 Increase/(decrease) in doubtful debts 87 430 Net gain/(loss) on sale of non-current assets 11,247 4,792 Net transfers free of charge 1,885 (4,207) Net recognition of assets/liabilities (118) 191 Asset write-downs 53,983 1,090 Decrease/(increase) in net market value of self-generating and regenerating assets 22,175 28,401 Change in operating assets and liabilities Decrease/(increase) in debtors and receivables 8,663 (13,814) (Decrease)/increase in prepayments (1,160) 968 (Increase)/decrease in other operating assets (988) (534) (Decrease)/increase in employee benefits 193 7,476 (Decrease)/increase in creditors and accruals (11,565) 7,290 Decrease)/increase in other operating liabilities (2,425) 2,181 Net cash inflow from operating activities 44,534 41,479
Note 31. Non-cash financing and investing activities Restructuring of administrative arrangements (refer Note 3) (174,717) 653,077 Restructuring of administrative arrangements During the reporting period, as a result of a restructuring of administrative arrangements, assets and liabilities amounting to $226.273 million and $51.556 million respectively were redeemed by the Crown and subsequently contributed to other government departments. The net amount resulting from these transfers has been recognised as a redemption of capital to the Crown. In 2002, assets and liabilities of $653.791 million and $0.714 million respectively were transferred into the department.
144 Accountable Officer’s and Chief Financial Officer’s declaration
We certify that the attached financial statements for the Department of Sustainability and Environment have been prepared in accordance with Part 9 of the Directions of the Minister for Finance under the Financial Management Act 1994, applicable Australian Accounting Standards and other mandatory professional reporting requirements. We further state that, in our opinion, the information set out in the statement of financial performance, statement of financial position, statement of cash flows and notes to and forming part of the financial statements, presents fairly the financial transactions during the year ended 30 June 2003 and financial position of the department as at 30 June 2003. We are not aware of any circumstance which would render any particulars included in the financial statements to be misleading or inaccurate.
Prof. Lyndsay Neilson Andrew W McDonald Secretary Chief Finance Officer Department of Sustainability and Environment Department of Sustainability and Environment Melbourne Melbourne 13 October 2003 13 October 2003
145 146 Auditor-General’s Report
To the Members of the Parliament of Victoria, the responsible Ministers and the Secretary of the Department of Sustainability and Environment Audit Scope The accompanying financial report of the Department of Sustainability and Environment for the financial year ended 30 June 2003, comprising a statement of financial performance, statement of financial position, statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, has been audited. The Secretary of the Department is responsible for the preparation and presentation of the financial report and the information it contains. An independent audit of the financial report has been carried out in order to express an opinion on it to the Members of the Parliament of Victoria, the responsible Ministers and the Secretary of the Department as required by the Audit Act 1994. The audit has been conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards to provide reasonable assurance as to whether the financial report is free of material misstatement. The audit procedures included an examination, on a test basis, of evidence supporting the amounts and other disclosures in the financial report, and the evaluation of accounting policies and significant accounting estimates. These procedures have been undertaken to form an opinion as to whether, in all material respects, the financial report is presented fairly in accordance with Accounting Standards and other mandatory professional reporting requirements in Australia, and the financial reporting requirements of the Financial Management Act 1994, so as to present a view which is consistent with my understanding of the Department’s financial position, and its financial performance and cash flows. The audit opinion expressed in this report has been formed on the above basis. Audit Opinion In my opinion, the financial report presents fairly in accordance with applicable Accounting Standards and other mandatory professional reporting requirements in Australia, and the financial reporting requirements of the Financial Management Act 1994, the financial position of the Department of Sustainability and Environment as at 30 June 2003 and its financial performance and cash flows for the year then ended.
Melbourne J.W. Cameron 13 October 2003 Auditor-General
Victorian Auditor-General’s Office Level 34, 140 William Street, Melbourne Victoria 3000 Telephone (03) 8601 7000 Facsimile (03) 8601 7010 Email [email protected] Website www.audit.vic.gov.au
Auditing in the Public Interest 147
DEPARTMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY AND ENVIRONMENT APPENDIXES
Contents Appendix 1 Executive officers – DSE and portfolio authorities 150 Appendix 2 Budget Portfolio Outcomes 153 Appendix 3 Consultancies 160 Appendix 4 Disclosure of major contracts 160 Appendix 5 Statement on the processes adopted to deliver standards of probity and contracting in compliance with the Victorian Government Purchasing Board guidelines 160 Appendix 6 Freedom of Information and Ombudsman 161 Appendix 7 Compliance with building and maintenance provisions of the Building Act 1993 161 Appendix 8 Major committees and statutory authorities 162 Appendix 9 Progress implementing government reforms 163 Appendix 10 Water Resource Assessment Program 163 Appendix 11 Available information 165 Appendix 12 Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 165
149 Table 1: Table 2: Appendix 1 Number of executive officers (including vacancies*) Breakdown of executive officers into gender for Executive officers – DSE and portfolio classified as ‘ongoing’ and ‘special projects’ ‘ongoing’ and ‘special projects’ authorities At 30 June 2003 All Ongoing Special Ongoing executives projects Male Female The number of executives in the report of operations Class No No Vacancies is based on the number of executive positions that are Classification No No No occupied and vacant at the end of the financial year. EO-1 1 1 0 EO-1 1 0 0 Disclosures in the report of operations contain EO-2 14 14 0 EO-2 12 2 0 information on: EO-3 32 31 1 EO-3 19 12 0 • Executive classifications Total 47 46 1 Total 32 14 0 Gender composition of the classifications. • *A further two executives on secondment to other agencies. Special projects Reconciliation of executive officers between the report Notes: of operations and note 23 remuneration of executives Male Female to the financial statements improves the transparency 1. The former NRE reported a total of 55 executive Class No No Vacancies and completeness of the information that is disclosed. positions at 30 June 2002. EO-1 0 0 0 2. An extra three positions were created prior to Reporting of executive positions has been split into EO-2 0 0 0 two segments – ongoing and special projects: 5 December 2002. EO-3 1 0 0 • ongoing executives are executives responsible for 3. A total of six executive positions were transferred functions or outputs expected to be ongoing at the to other departments following machinery of Total 1 0 0 reporting date government changes. Table 3: special project executives are executives employed • 4. A total of 17 executive positions were assigned to Reconciliation of executive numbers (including for a specific project, which are generally fixed-term DPI following machinery of government changes. vacancies) at 30 June 2003 (with executive officers’ and relate to a government priority. 5. 12 executive positions were transferred to DSE from remuneration note 21 in the Financial Report) The following tables disclose the executive officers DOI following machinery of government changes. 2003 and vacancies within DSE and its portfolio authorities at 30 June 2003. Executive numbers reported in Financial Report 72 Add Accountable officer (DSE Secretary) 1 Accountable officer (DPI Secretary) 1 Less Executive staff transfer to DVC 3 Executive staff transfer to DOI 4 Executive staff transfer to DPI 15 Separations 3 Executives on secondment to other agencies 2 Total executive numbers including 47 vacancies at 30 June 2003
150 Appendixes
Table 4: Number of executive officers for DSE’s portfolio authorities A portfolio authority is a public authority under the Public Sector Management and Employment Act 1998. Data is sourced from the Office for Workforce Development.
Organisation Female Male Vacant Total Barwon Region Water Authority 11 11 Building Commission 26 8 Central Highlands Water 44 City West Water 59 14 Coliban Region Water Authority 14 5 Corangamite Catchment Management Authority 11 East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority 11 East Gippsland Region Water Authority 44 EcoRecycle Victoria 22 Falls Creek Alpine Resort Management Board 11 First Mildura Irrigation Trust 11 Gippsland and Southern Rural Water 33 Gippsland Ports 22 Gippsland Water (Central Gippsland Region Water Authority) 1 3 4 Glenelg Region Water Authority 11 Glenelg-Hopkins Catchment Management Authority 11 Goulburn Valley Region Water Authority 10 10 Goulburn-Broken Catchment Management Authority 33 Goulburn-Murray Rural Water Authority 22 22 Grampians Region Water Authority 55 Lake Mountain Alpine Resort Management Board 11 Lower Murray Region Water Authority 11 Mallee Catchment Management Authority 11 Melbourne Water Corporation 218 20 Mount Baw Baw Alpine Resort Management Board 22 Mount Buller Alpine Resort Management Board 33 Mount Hotham Alpine Resort Management Board 11 North Central Catchment Management Authority 11 North East Catchment Management Authority 11
151 Organisation Female Male Vacant Total North East Region Water Authority 33 Parks Victoria 316 19 Phillip Island Nature Park Board of Management Inc. 112 Plumbing Industry Commission 22 Portland Coast Region Water Authority 11 Royal Botanic Gardens Board 14 5 South East Water Limited 66 South Gippsland Region Water Authority 44 South West Water Authority 22 Sunraysia Rural Water Authority 11 Sustainable Energy Authority Victoria 21 3 Timber Promotion Council 33 Trust for Nature (Victorian Conservation Trust) 11 West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority 11 Western Port Region Water Authority 33 Western Region Water Authority 24 6 Wimmera Catchment Management Authority 11 Wimmera-Mallee Rural Water Authority 44 Yarra Valley Water 521 26 Zoological Parks and Gardens Board 35 8 Total 27 207 1 235
152 Appendix 2
Budget Portfolio Outcomes Statement of financial performance as at 30 June 2003
($’million)
2002–03 2002–03 Variance Actual Budget % Note Revenue from ordinary activties Output Appropriations 1,003.5 876.1 (14.5) 1 Special Appropriations ––– Resources received free of charge or for nominal consideration 0.3 8.8 96.5 2 Sale of goods and services 28.7 23.7 (20.9) 3 Taxes 98.9 88.2 (12.1) 4 Fines and Fees 7.7 5.2 (47.9) 5 Commonwealth grants ––– Other revenue and revenue from other parties 0.7 3.9 81.0 6 Total 1,139.7 1,005.9 (13.3)
Expenditure from ordinary activties Employee benefits 299.2 251.5 (19.0) 7 Depreciation and amortisation 30.0 33.5 10.6 8 Resources provided free of charge or for nominal consideration 1.9 73.5 97.4 2 Grants and other payments 313.3 353.0 11.2 9 Capital assets charge 65.0 70.1 7.3 Supplies and services 415.8 294.1 (41.4) 10 Other expenses from ordinary activities 78.0 – – Borrowing costs 0.2 – – Total 1,203.2 1,075.7 (11.9)
153 ($’million)
2002–03 2002–03 Variance Actual Budget % Note Result from ordinary activities (63.5) (69.8) 9.0 Loss from extraordinary items ––– Net result for reporting period (63.5) (69.8) 9.0 Net increase in asset revaluation reserve –––
Total revenues, expenses and revaluation adjustments recognised directly in equity – – – Total changes in equity other than those resulting from transactions with Victorian State Government in its capacity as owner (63.5) (69.8) 9.0
The following Notes provide an explanation of the major items that contributed to the variation between the 2002–03 Actual and 2002–03 Budget. Notes: 1 Primarily relates to additional budget supplementation received for fire suppression costs and the Seal Rocks settlement. 2 Variance is due to machinery of government transfers being treated as contributed capital and not as as resources provided/received free of charge as was initially budgeted. 3 Increased revenue for externally funded research projects. 4 Revenue collected by the EPA for the landfill levy has been higher than budgeted due to a legislation change allowing a new method of calculating the levy. 5 Variance relates to an increase in EPA regulatory fees collected. 6 Revaluation of inventory was less than originally budgeted. 7 Variance relates to increased employee costs as a result of the fire emergency. 8 Delays in the Asset Investment Program has led to underexpenditure on Depreciation and Amortisation. 9 Grants are below budget due to the late receipt of matching Commonwealth funding. 10 This item is above budget due to the Seal Rocks legal settlement payment, and costs incurred for the fire season.
154 Budget Portfolio Outcomes Statement of financial position as at 30 June 2003
($’million)
2002–03 2002–03 Variance Actual Budget % Note Current assets Cash assets (9.3) (19.9) 53.4 1 Other financial assets 18.0 16.6 (8.2) Receivables 35.9 31.1 (15.5) 2 Inventories 11.1 7.6 (46.4) 3 Prepayments 1.3 – – Other – – – Total current assets 57.1 35.4 (61.2)
Non-current assets Receivables 84.0 102.1 17.7 4 Inventories 12.3 5.8 (111.7) 5 Other financial assets 223.8 231.8 3.4 Property, plant and equipment 2,851.1 2,710.0 (5.2) Intangible assets 39.3 48.4 18.8 6 Other assets 260.0 281.9 7.8 Total non-current assets 3,470.6 3,380.0 (2.7) Total assets 3,527.6 3,415.4 (3.3)
Current liabilities Payables 21.7 31.1 30.2 7 Interest bearing liabilities – – – Provisions 22.0 15.7 (39.9) 8 Other 2.9 5.1 43.9 9 Total current liabilities 46.5 51.9 10.4
155 ($’million)
2002–03 2002–03 Variance Actual Budget % Note Non-current liabilities Interest bearing liabilities – (0.1) 100.0 Provisions 41.7 42.8 2.6 Other – (0.3) 100.0 Amounts owing to other departments – – – Total non-current liabilities 41.7 42.4 1.7 Total liabilities 88.2 94.3 6.5 Net assets 3,439.4 3,321.1 (3.6)
Equity Contributed capital 2,219.6 2,279.4 2.6 Reserves 1,032.0 859.3 (20.1) 10 Accummulated surplus 188.0 182.3 (3.1) Total equity 3,439.5 3,321.0 (3.6)
The following Notes provide an explanation of the major items that contributed to the variation between the 2002–03 Actual and 2002–03 Budget. Notes: 1 Redemption of short term investments and reduction in trust balances. 2 Variance reflects GST input tax credits recoverable from the tax office. 3 Variance relates to an increase in inventory holdings of logs in dump and the seed bank. 4 Represents receivables from government to meet liabilities such as employee entitlements and creditors. 5 This is primarily due to a reclassification of some parcels of Crown Land to land held for resale. 6 Variance relates to the transfer of additional intangibles to DPI and DVC (not included in budget figure). 7 Variance relates to a reduction in accounts payable balances as creditors were paid. 8 The variance relates to the recognition of an unbudgeted productivity bonus payable to VPS staff in July 2003. 9 Variance relates to a reduction in unearned revenue as a result of the completion of research projects. 10 Variance is due to a revaluation of conservation reserves.
156 Budget Portfolio Outcomes Cash flow statement for the year ended 30 June 2003
($’million)
2002–03 2002–03 Variance Actual Budget % Cash flows from operating activities Receipts from government 864.6 918.5 5.9 Receipts from other entities 121.1 125.4 3.5 Payments for supplies, grants and employees (972.9) (942.4) (3.2) 12.8 101.5 87.4
Interest received 2.8 0.6 (360.0) 1 Other revenue (10.7) 3.7 388.6 2 Capital asset charge (65.0) (70.1) 7.3 Borrowing costs expense –– Net cash inflow from operating activities (60.2) 35.7 268.5
Cash flows from investing activities Payments for property, plant and equipment (2,616.0) 48.2 5,527.3 3 Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 1.1 – – Payments for investments (12.0) – – Proceeds from sale of business assets ––– (Repayment of) loans by other entities (2.0) 4.8 141.7 4 Net cash (outflow) from investing activities (2,628.8) 53.0 5,060.1
Cash flows from financing activities Net proceeds from capital contribution by State Government 2,681.5 (91.8) 3,021.0 5 Net proceeds of borrowings – (8.2) 100.0 Repayment of finance leases ––– Net cash inflow from financing activities 2,681.5 (100.0) 2,781.5
157 ($’million)
2002–03 2002–03 Variance Actual Budget % Note Net Increase / (Decrease) in Cash Held (7.5) (11.3) 33.7 Cash at beginning of the financial year (8.6) (8.6) – Cash at end of the financial year (16.1) (19.9) 19.1
The following Notes provide an explanation of the major items that contributed to the variation between the 2002–03 Actual and 2002–03 Budget. Notes: 1 Interest received from the Treasury Corporation of Victoria was greater than originally budgeted for. 2 Variance relates to GST Input Tax Credits Recoverable. 3 The variance is largely due to a change in accounting policy relating to the transfer of trust fund net assets following the machinery of government changes. 4 Relates to a loan receivable that was transferred to DSE as part of the machinery of government changes. 5 Variance is due to machinery of government transfers being treated as contributed capital and not as resources provided/received free of charge as was initially budgeted.
Budget Portfolio Outcomes Adminsitered Items Statement as at 30 June 2003
($’million)
2002–03 2002–03 Variance Actual Budget % Note Administered revenue Appropriations – payments made on behalf of the State 22.3 22.8 2.1 Special appropriations –– – Resources received free of charge or for nominal consideration – 0.3 100.0 Sale of goods and services 242.8 180.7 (34.4) 1 Commonwealth grants 58.5 49.1 (19.2) Other grants – – – Taxes – – – Fines 0.6 – – Fees 25.9 6.6 (292.4) 2 Other 67.9 53.3 (27.4) 3 Total administered revenue 418.1 312.8 (33.7)
158 ($’million)
2002–03 2002–03 Variance Actual Budget % Note Administered expenses Expenses on behalf of the state 0.1 6.5 99.2 4 Grants and other payments 22.7 21.5 (5.6) Other expenses (1.3) – – Payments into consolidated fund 387.4 296.6 (30.6) 1 Total administered expenses 408.9 324.6 (26.0) Revenue less expenses 9.2 (11.8) 178.2
Administered assets Cash assets 0.0 – – Receiveables 30.5 31.7 3.8 Other financial assets 0.1 0.1 – Inventories – – – Prepayments – – – Property, plant and equipment – – – Intangible assets – – – Other – – – Total administered assets 30.6 31.8 3.9
Administered liabilities Payables 1.0 0.2 (395.0) Interest bearing liabilities – 0.2 100.0 Provisions ––– Amounts owing to other departments ––– Other 6.8 25.7 73.7 5 Total administered liabilities 7.8 26.1 70.3
The following Notes provide an explanation of the major items that contributed to the variation between the 2002–03 Actual and 2002–03 Budget. Notes: 1 Variance relates to Titles Office fees received being higher than initially budgeted. 2 Variance relates to an increase in EPA regulatory fees received. 3 Variance relates to forest royalties being higher than budgeted. 4 Variance is because Machinery of Government transfers were treated as contributed capital as per accounting policy rather than resources provided/received free of charge as was initially budgeted. 5 Variance relates to unearned/prepaid income being lower than initially budgeted.
159 Appendix 3 Appendix 4 Consultancies Disclosure of major contracts DSE has entered into one contract greater than Consultancies greater than $100,000 $10 million in 2002–03 for the purchase of Crawler Consultant Details 2002–03 Future tractors. Full contract details are published on the expenditure commitment Victorian Government Purchasing Board (VGPB) website at www.contracts.vic.gov.au. Nil Nil DSE has disclosed, in accordance with the requirements Consultancies less than $100,000 of Victorian Government Policy and associated guidelines, There were 16 consultancies with less than $100,000 summary details of all contracts greater than $100,000 engaged during 2002–03 at a total cost of $262,234 on the VGPB website referenced above. (including GST) Comparative information Appendix 5 Financial year Over $100k Under $100k Total Statement on the processes adopted No $ No $ No $ to deliver standards of probity and 2001–02 4 $606,895 56 $1,544,649 60 $2,151,544 contracting in compliance with the 2002–03 0 0 16 $262,234 16 $262,234 Victorian Government Purchasing Board guidelines DSE continues to uphold a high level of probity and ethics in its purchasing activity by maintaining strict adherence to VGPB Policies. The department’s Accredited Purchasing Unit considers all procurement proposals in excess of $100,000 and high risk or complex purchases of lesser value up to the accreditation limit of $1 million. The APU also endorses proposals outside that accreditation limit for consideration by the VGPB, monitors purchasing procedures, and facilitates increased levels of competency in the procurement function across the department. Continuous improvement in training, education and systems development continues to ensure a culture of awareness and understanding of successful procurement and contracting issues.
160 Maintenance of buildings in a safe and Appendix 6 Appendix 7 serviceable condition Freedom of Information and Compliance with building and A condition assessment of DSE offices and facilities was Ombudsman maintenance provisions of the Building conducted in July 2002. 10-year maintenance programs were updated for works necessary in the annual The Freedom of Information Act 1982 allows the public Act 1993 maintenance, condition, major cyclical and regulatory a right of access to documents held by the department. DSE complies with the Standards for Publicly Owned categories. The assessment indicated that a majority of For the 12 months ending 30 June 2003, 148 requests Buildings (the Guideline) as prepared by the former DSE facilities conformed with building standards. There were received and 137 finalised. Of those finalised, 39 Office of Building, the Department of Infrastructure. are currently only four buildings in North East Region received full access, 36 partial access and 17 were denied The Guideline applies to new building, all construction that are required to meet the current building regulations. access. Twenty-seven applicants either withdrew their work, and relates also to the safety and fitness to All NE buildings have current Form 15 and the Marysville applications or did not pay the fees, 5 were transferred in occupy facilities. office received a current Occupancy Certificate. full to another agency and 13 applicants were advised that no relevant documents could be located or they did not Major works projects greater than $50,000 exist. There are 11 requests outstanding. A number of major projects have been completed this The Secretary received 20 requests for an internal review financial year. All new work and redevelopment of of decisions where access was initially denied. The original existing properties were carried out to conform to current decision to deny documents was upheld in 15 of these building regulations (1994) and the provisions of the reviews, and varied in five. Building Act 1993. Either a certificate of Final Inspection or an Occupancy Certificate was issued for new facilities In the reporting period there were six appeals lodged with or upgrades to existing facilities by the local authority the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal. There are or by a building surveyor. two current appeals. Major DSE works included: The Ombudsman referred 22 matters to the department that were satisfactorily resolved by informal staff contact • refurbishment of a Regional Office at Traralgon and correspondence between the Secretary and the • construction of modular office accommodation at Ombudsman. Marysville, Bendoc and Casterton Freedom of Information requests are made in writing • refurbishment of single person’s quarters at Bendoc describing the documents requested and including • shed construction at Heyfield payment of a $20 application fee. Further charges may • office refurbishment at Mallacoota (Marine Parks be payable. FOI fees and charges are not subject to GST. Initiative) Requests are sent to Freedom of Information, DSE, • Powelltown office refurbishment PO Box 500, East Melbourne Vic 3002. The contact • Rawson office refurbishment. telephone number is 9637 8575.
161 North East Catchment Management Authority North East Region Water Authority Appendix 8 North-East Victoria Regional Waste Management Group Portland Coast Region Water Authority Major committees and statutory Northern Regional Waste Management Group South East Water Limited authorities Parks Victoria South Gippsland Region Water Authority Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management South West Water Authority Minister for Environment Authority Sunraysia Rural Water Authority Alpine Advisory Committee Reference Areas Advisory Committee Victorian Water Trust Advisory Council Alpine Resorts Co-ordinating Council Royal Botanic Gardens Board Western Region Water Authority Barwon Regional Waste Management Group Scientific Advisory Committee Westernport Region Water Authority Calder Regional Waste Management Group South Eastern Regional Waste Management Group Wimmera Mallee Rural Water Authority Central Coast Regional Coastal Board South Western Regional Waste Management Group Yarra Valley Water Limited Sustainable Energy Authority Victoria Central Murray Regional Waste Management Group Minister for Planning Corangamite Catchment Management Authority Timber Promotion Council Architects Registration Board of Victoria Desert Fringe Regional Waste Management Group Trust for Nature (Victoria) Building Advisory Council East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority Victorian Catchment Management Council Building Appeals Board Eastern Regional Waste Management Group Victorian Coastal Council Building Commission Ecorecycle Victoria Victorian Environmental Assessment Council Building Practitioners Board Environment Protection Authority Victorian Mineral Water Committee Building Regulations Advisory Committee Environment Protection Board West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority Caulfield Racecourse Committee Falls Creek Alpine Resort Management Board Western Coast Regional Coastal Board Committees of Management for Crown Land Reserves Geographic Place Names Panel Western Regional Waste Management Group Gippsland Ports Committee of Management Inc Gippsland Lakes and Coast Regional Coastal Board Wimmera Catchment Management Authority Heritage Council Gippsland Regional Waste Management Group Zoological Parks and Gardens Board of Victoria Melbourne 2030 Implementation Reference Group Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority Minister for Water National Tennis Centre Committee of Management Inc Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority Barwon Region Water Authority Phillip Island Nature Park Board of Management Inc Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group Casey’s Weir and Major Creek Rural Water Authority Planning Panels Victoria Grampians Regional Waste Management Group Central Gippsland Region Water Authority Plumbing Industry Advisory Council Highlands Regional Waste Management Group Central Highlands Region Water Authority Plumbing Industry Commission Hunting Advisory Committee City West Water Limited Shrine of Remembrance Trust Lake Mountain Alpine Resort Management Board Coliban Region Water Authority Surveyors Board Mallee Catchment Management Authority East Gippsland Region Water Authority Victorian Design Advisory Council Mildura Regional Waste Management Group First Mildura Irrigation Trust Yarra Bend Park Trust Mornington Peninsula Regional Waste Management Group Gippsland and Southern Rural Water Authority Mount Baw Baw Alpine Resort Management Board Glenelg Region Water Authority Mount Buller Alpine Resort Management Board Goulburn-Murray Rural Water Authority Mount Hotham Alpine Resort Management Board Goulburn Valley Region Water Authority Mount Stirling Alpine Resort Management Board Grampians Region Water Authority National Parks Advisory Council Lower Murray Region Water Authority North Central Catchment Management Authority Melbourne Water Corporation
162 Appendix 9 Progress implementing government reforms As part of their commitments under National Competition Policy, all Commonwealth, state and territory governments undertook to review and change legislation that restricts competition. Governments may, however, retain restrictions on competition if those restrictions are found, after a process of review, to be in the public interest. Reviews of legislation Legislation Progress Crown land management legislation – Land Act 1958 and Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 Review completed, response being prepared Environment Protection Act 1970 and Litter Act 1987 Review completed August 2000, EPA response released June 2003 Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 Review completed February 1999, response released January 2002 Forests Act 1958 Review completed April 1998, response released March 2003 National Parks Act 1975 and Water Industry Act Part (IV) 1994 Consultation for the review undertaken in 2000 but final review not yet completed Surveyors Act 1978 Review completed July 1997, response released January 2003
Water availability uring 2002–03, routine maintenance of the groundwater Appendix 10 monitoring network and data collection continued at Water Resources Assessment Monitoring Program these network sites. A new groundwater database was Water Resource Assessment Program (a) Surface Water designed to improve data handling and compatibility with resource allocation management arrangements. Background The state’s surface water resources assessment network comprises some 261 sites across the state. The This ‘Groundwater Management System’ was activated Under Section 22 (1) of the Water Act 1989, the Minister department monitors stream flows at these sites on a in August 2002. is required to ensure that a continuous program of continuous basis. Many of these stations are shared with assessment of the water resources of the State is Surface water allocation and management water authorities who require data for operational and undertaken. As per Section 22(2) of the Act, this compliance reporting purposes, and some also provide As part of Victoria’s water allocation program, Stream assessment program must provide for the collection, data for flood warning purposes. Along with historical Flow Management Plans (SFMPs) are being implemented collation, analysis and publication of information about: data from these sites, the 261 additional station years to provide agreed and equitable management of water (a) the availability of water of data collected during 2002–03 is being made available extraction and to provide environmental flows for the (b) the disposal of wastewater (including trade waste, via the Victorian Water Resources Data Warehouse long-term health of the river systems. sewage and saline water) (www.vicwaterdata.net), which also provides summaries Presently there are three SFMPs in operation for the Merri, (c) the use and re-use of water resources of flow characteristics based on the total period of record Gellibrand and Upper Latrobe Catchments. A further 30 (d) floodwaters (including monthly means, monthly and daily maximums are in various stages of preparation. Continuing effort is and minimums at each site). See section on Data (e) drainage and waterway management going into the implementation of programs for supplying Warehouse below. (f) water quality (including salinity) and installing meters to monitor irrigation pumping licences throughout the state. (g) in-stream uses of water (b) Groundwater (h) anything else the Minister decides is appropriate. The state’s groundwater resource assessment network The Water (Irrigation Farm Dams) Act 2002 amended comprises some 3,500 observation bores across the state. the Water Act 1989. SFMPs can now be prepared under Section 26 of the Act also requires that a report on the Water levels at these sites are routinely monitored on a the Water Act to ensure that unregulated streams are water resources assessment program be included in each quarterly basis. More frequent monitoring occurs on sites managed in accordance with a plan prepared by a annual report of the Department. Major activities for where bores are situated in groundwater protection areas. Consultative Committee and approved by the Minister. 2002–03 are summarised in the next section.
163 During 2002–03, the Minister approved a framework Disposal of waste water Water quality for the preparation of SFMPs and the licensing of Regional water authorities are required to provide a Surface Water Quality Monitoring Program irrigation and commercial farm dams. These documents performance report on wastewater disposal, as part Water quality monitoring is conducted at 108 sites across include, an environmental flow assessment methodology, of the Report of Operations in their annual reports. the state on a monthly basis for a range of physico- a methodology setting precautionary limits on winter-fill The performance report includes indicators related to chemical water quality parameters including nutrients diversion and a suite of technical tools for determining financial, service delivery and environmental performance. and salinity. Data from the monitoring network is made the impact of farm dams. These documents are now either Specific wastewater indicators are prepared for reliability publicly available from the Victorian Water Resources formal government policy or recommended practice. of collection services, quality of disposal and Data Warehouse. The Victorian Water Quality Monitoring Also of considerable importance to the development management. The annual reports are tabled in Parliament. Annual Report, containing water quality information and of improved water management at both regional and There is also further analysis, conducted within the maps, was published and distributed to regional catchment level is the Victorian River Health Strategy department, on data submitted by regional water stakeholders in June 2003. (VRHS), which is undergoing final review. The VRHS authorities concerning performance of their wastewater outlines a regional management framework, which treatment plants. The analysis focuses on compliance Victorian Water Resources Data Warehouse emphasises an integrated priority setting of flow, and with Environment Protection Authority requirements as The Victorian Water Resources Data Warehouse non-flow related requirements for improving river health. set out in discharge licences. Findings are reported to the (www.vicwaterdata.net) was launched in June 2000 and Within this framework, unregulated river systems are to portfolio minister in a general briefing that covers matters contains current and historical information on stream be categorised into high, medium and low risk categories pertaining to the corporate planning process. flow, water quality and river health for the whole of with regard to flow management requirements. Victoria. During 2002–03, the Warehouse mapping Flood monitoring Groundwater allocation and management interface was upgraded providing a significant step Data on major floods that have occurred in Victoria forward in access to water resources information in a The groundwater management regime in Victoria is based since approximately 1900 is stored in a centralised DSE simple, effective manner. 2002–03 also saw the addition on sustainable development through the establishment database. The database includes flood heights, extents of over 12,000 groundwater bores and hundreds of of community driven Groundwater Management Plans. and estimated return periods. Catchment management community water quality monitoring sites to the system. The process begins with the establishment of authorities are currently using the information in Groundwater Management Areas (GMAs), which are areas developing their floodplan management strategies, where groundwater development has already occurred and local councils for their planning schemes, building or where there is potential for groundwater development. approvals and emergency management plans. To date some 60 GMAs have been established across the State. The sustainable yield of the aquifers in these areas Drainage has been estimated, as has the volume of groundwater The State Government agreed to provide $1.7 million allocated to users. Within these GMAs, a Permissible to be matched with locally raised funds to implement Annual Volume (PAV) is the volume that may be allocated. three discrete projects in the Sunraysia region to reduce When resource commitments reach 70% of the PAV, a the discharge of salt and nutrients into the Murray River. Groundwater Supply Protection Area (GSPA) is set up, These projects will reduce salt loads into the river and community driven Groundwater Management Plans by between 9700 and 12,900 tonnes per annum. The are developed to more intensively manage the resources projects will also reduce the discharge of nitrogen by in the area. These plans will facilitate the trading of water at least 1000 kilograms. entitlements in situations where the current allocations Implementation of the community based land and have reached the PAV. water management plans in the Sunraysia region has The GMPs also set out requirements for the collection of significantly reduced tile drainage in the region’s public usage data and improvements to groundwater monitoring irrigation districts. and other accounting procedures.
164 Appendix 11 Appendix 12 Available information Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 • A statement that declarations of pecuniary interests The Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 came into effect on 1 January 2002. The Act is designed to protect people who have been duly completed by all DSE relevant officers disclose information about serious wrongdoing within the Victorian Public Sector and to provide a framework for the of the department. investigation of these matters. • Details of shares held by a senior officer as nominee or The protected disclosure coordinator for DSE receives disclosures under the Act, and applies DSE procedures in held beneficially in a statutory authority or subsidiary. managing disclosures. • Details of publications produced by the department Disclosures under the Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 are made to the following: about the activities of the department and where they can be obtained. Deidre Egan, Protected Disclosure Coordinator • Details of changes in prices, fees, charges, rates and DSE, PO Box 500, East Melbourne Vic 3002. levies charged by the department for its services, Telephone: 9637 8575 Facsimile: 9637 8129 Email: [email protected] including services that are administered. The Ombudsman Victoria • Details of any major external reviews carried out in Level 22, 459 Collins Street, Melbourne Vic 3000. respect of the operation of the department. Telephone: 9613 6222 Toll free: 1800 806 314 • Further details of any other research and development activities undertaken by the department that are not Report on disclosures for the period 1 July 2002 to 30 June 2003 otherwise covered either in the report of operations or Number of disclosures made to the department 0 in a document which contains the financial report and Number of disclosures referred to the Ombudsman 0 report of operations. • Details of overseas visits undertaken including a Number of disclosures referred to the department by the Ombudsman 0 summary of the objectives and outcomes of each visit. Number of disclosures referred by the department to the Ombudsman to investigate 0 • Details of major promotional, public relations and Number of investigations of disclosures taken over by the Ombudsman from the department 0 marketing activities undertaken by the department to develop community awareness of the services provided Number of requests by complainants to have their discolosure investigation by the Ombudsman 0 by the department. Number of disclosures the department has declined to investigate 0 • Details of assessments and measures undertaken to improve the occupational health and safety of Number of disclosed matters that were substantiated on investigation 0 employees, not otherwise detailed in the report Number of recommendations made by the Ombudsman related to the department 0 of operations. • A general statement on industrial relations within the department and details of time lost through industrial accidents and disputes, which is not otherwise detailed in the report of operations. • A list of major committees sponsored by the department, the purposes of each committee and the extent to which the purposes have been achieved.
165 Appendix 12 – Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 (continued) Contents 11. Action taken after an investigation 170 1. Statement of support for whistleblowers 167 11.1 Investigator’s final report 170 2. Purpose of these procedures 167 11.2 Action to be taken 170 3. Objects of the Act 167 12. Manging the welfare of the whistleblower 170 4. Definitions of key terms 167 12.1 Commitment to protecting whistleblowers 170 4.1 Improper conduct 167 12.2 Keeping the whistleblower informed 171 4.2 Corrupt conduct 167 12.3 Occurrence of detrimental action 171 4.3 Detrimental action 167 12.4 Whistleblowers implicated in improper conduct 171 5. The reporting system 167 13. Management of the person against whom 5.1 Contact persons within DSE 167 disclosure has been made 171 5.2 Alternative contact persons 168 14. Criminal offences 171 6. Roles and responsibilities 168 15. Review 171 6.1 Employees 168 6.2 Protected disclosure officers 168 6.3 Protected disclosure coordinator 168 6.4 Investigator 168 6.5 Welfare manager 168 7. Confidentiality 168 8. Collating and publishing statistics 169 9. Receiving and assessing disclosures 169 9.1 Has the disclosure been made in accordance with Part 2 of the Act? 169 9.1.1 Has the disclosure been made to the appropriate person? 169 9.1.2 Does the disclosure contain the essential elements of a protected disclosure? 169 9.2 Is the disclosure a public interest disclosure? 169 10. Investigations 169 10.1 Introduction 169 10.2 Terms of reference 169 10.3 Investigation plan 169 10.4 Natural justice 170 10.5 Conduct of the investigation 170 10.6 Referral of an investigation to the Ombudsman 170 10.7 Reporting requirements 170
166 1. Statement of support to whistleblowers 4.1 Improper conduct • Discrimination, disadvantage or adverse treatment in relation to a person’s employment, career, profession, trade or business, The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) is A disclosure may be made about improper conduct by a public including the taking of disciplinary action. committed to the aims and objectives of the histleblowers body or public official. Improper conduct means conduct that Protection Act 2001 (the Act). It does not tolerate improper is corrupt, a substantial mismanagement of public resources, Examples conduct by its employees, officers or members, nor the taking or conduct involving substantial risk to public health or safety A public body refuses a deserved promotion of a person who of reprisals against those who come forward to disclose or to the environment. The conduct must be serious enough to makes a disclosure. such conduct. constitute, if proved, a criminal offence or reasonable grounds for dismissal. A public body demotes, transfers, isolates in the workplace or DSE recognises the value of transparency and accountability changes the duties of a whistleblower due to the making of a in its administrative and management practices, and supports Examples disclosure. the making of disclosures that reveal corrupt conduct, conduct To avoid closure of a town’s only industry, an environmental health involving a substantial mismanagement of public resources, or officer ignores or conceals evidence of illegal dumping of waste. A person threatens, abuses or carries out other forms of conduct involving a substantial risk to public health and safety harassment directly or indirectly against the whistleblower, or the environment. An agricultural officer delays or declines imposing quarantine his or her family or friends. to allow a financially distressed farmer to sell diseased stock. DSE will take all reasonable steps to protect people who make A public body discriminates against the whistleblower or his or such disclosures from any detrimental action in reprisal for A building inspector tolerates poor practices and structural defects her family and associates in subsequent applications for jobs, making the disclosure. It will also take afford natural justice in the work of a leading local builder. permits or tenders. to the person who is the subject of the disclosure. See 4.2 below for specific examples of corrupt conduct. 5. The reporting system 2. Purpose of these procedures 4.2 Corrupt conduct 5.1 Contact persons within DSE These procedures establish a system for reporting disclosures of Corrupt conduct means: improper conduct or detrimental action by DSE or its employees. Disclosures of improper conduct or detrimental action Conduct of any person (whether or not a public official) that The system enables such disclosures to be made to the protected • by DSE or its employees, may be made to the following officers: adversely affects the honest performance of a public officer’s disclosure coordinator or to one of the nominated Protected or public body’s functions; The protected disclosure coordinator: disclosure officers. Disclosures may be made by employees or Deidre Egan • The performance of a public officer’s functions dishonestly by members of the public. Manager Secretariat Services or with inappropriate partiality; These procedures are designed to complement normal 9/8 Nicholson Street East Melbourne 3002 • Conduct of a public officer, former public officer or a public Ph: 9637 8575 communication channels between supervisors and employees. body that amounts to a breach of public trust; Employees are encouraged to continue to raise appropriate matters Conduct by a public officer, former public officer or a public The protected disclosure officers: at any time with their supervisors. As an alternative, employees • body that amounts to the misuse of information or material Deidre Egan may make a disclosure of improper conduct or detrimental action acquired in the course of the performance of their official Manager Secretariat Services under the Act in accordance with these procedures. functions; or 9/8 Nicholson Street East Melbourne 3002 Ph: 9637 8575 • A conspiracy or attempt to engage in the above conduct. 3. Objects of the Act Fax: 9637 8129 The Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 commences operation Examples Email: [email protected] on 1 January 2002. The purpose of the Act is to encourage and A public officer takes a bribe or receives a payment other than James Taylor facilitate the making of disclosures of improper conduct by his or her wages or salary in exchange for the discharge of a Director Governance, Legislation and Executive Services public officers and public bodies. The Act provides protection public duty. 9/8 Nicholson Street East Melbourne 3002 to whistleblowers who make disclosures in accordance with the Ph: 9637 8564 A public officer favours unmeritorious applications for jobs or Act, and establishes a system for the matters disclosed to be Fax: 9637 8128 permits by friends and relatives. investigated and rectifying action to be taken. Email: [email protected] A public officer sells confidential information. 4. Definitions of key terms All correspondence, phone calls and emails from internal 4.3 Detrimental action or external whistleblowers will be referred to the protected Three key concepts in the reporting system are improper conduct, disclosure coordinator. corrupt conduct and detrimental action. Definitions of these terms The Act makes it an offence for a person to take detrimental are set out below. action against a person in reprisal for a protected disclosure. Where a person is contemplating making a disclosure and is Detrimental action includes: concerned about approaching the protected disclosure coordinator or a protected disclosure officer in the workplace, he or she can • Action causing injury, loss or damage; call the relevant officer and request a meeting in a discreet • Intimidation or harassment; and location away from the workplace.
167 5.2 Alternative contact persons 6.2 Protected disclosure officers 6.5 Welfare manager A disclosure about improper conduct or detrimental action by DSE Protected disclosure officers will: The welfare manager is responsible for looking after the general or its employees, may also be made directly to the Ombudsman: welfare of the whistleblower. The welfare manager will: • Be a contact point for general advice about the operation of the Acting Ombudsman Victoria Act for any person wishing to make a disclosure about improper • Examine the immediate welfare and protection needs of a Level 22, 459 Collins Street conduct or detrimental action; whistleblower who has made a disclosure and seek to foster a supportive work environment; Melbourne Victoria 3000 • Make arrangements for a disclosure to be made privately (DX 210174) and discreetly and, if necessary, away from the workplace; • Advise the whistleblower of the legislative and administrative protections available to him or her; Internet: www.ombudsman.vic.gov.au • Receive any disclosure made orally or in writing (from internal Email: [email protected] and external whistleblowers); • Listen and respond to any concerns of harassment, intimidation Tel: 9613 6222 or victimisation in reprisal for making disclosure; and • Commit to writing any disclosure made orally; Toll Free:1800 806 314 • Ensure the expectations of the whistleblower are realistic. • Impartially assess the allegation and determine whether it Acting Ombudsman: is a disclosure made in accordance with Part 2 of the Act 7. Confidentiality Mr Robert Seamer (that is, ‘a protected disclosure’); DSE will take all reasonable steps to protect the identity of the Tel: (03) 9613 6202 • Take all necessary steps to ensure the identity of the whistleblower. Maintaining confidentiality is crucial in ensuring whistleblower and the identity of the person who is the The following table sets out where disclosures about persons other reprisals are not made against a whistleblower. than employees of DSE should be made. subject of the disclosure are kept confidential; and • Forward all disclosures and supporting evidence to the The Act requires any person who receives information due to Person who is the subject Person/body to whom the protected disclosure coordinator. the handling or investigation of a protected disclosure, not to of the disclosure disclosure must be made disclose that information except in certain limited circumstances. Employee of a public body That public body or the 6.3 Protected disclosure coordinator Disclosure of information in breach of section 22 constitutes an Ombudsman The protected disclosure coordinator has a central ‘clearinghouse’ offence that is punishable by a maximum fine of 60 penalty units ($6000) or six months imprisonment or both. Member of Parliament Speaker of the Legislative role in the internal reporting system. He or she will: (Legislative Assembly) Assembly • Receive all disclosures forwarded from the protected disclosure The circumstances in which a person may disclose information officers; obtained about a protected disclosure include: Member of Parliament President of the Legislative • Receive all phone calls, emails and letters from members • Where exercising the functions of the public body under the Act; (Legislative Council) Council of the public or employees seeking to make a disclosure; • When making a report or recommendation under the Act; Councillor The Ombudsman • Impartially assess each disclosure to determine whether it • When publishing statistics in the annual report of a public body; Chief Commissioner of The Ombudsman or Deputy is a public interest disclosure; and Police Ombudsman • Refer all public interest disclosures to the Ombudsman; • In criminal proceedings for certain offences in the Act. • Be responsible for carrying out, or appointing an investigator Member of the police force The Ombudsman, Deputy However, the Act prohibits the inclusion of particulars in to carry out, an investigation referred to the public body by Ombudsman or Chief any report or recommendation that is likely to lead to the the Ombudsman; Commissioner of Police identification of the whistleblower. The Act also prohibits the • Be responsible for overseeing and coordinating an investigation identification of the person who is the subject of the disclosure where an investigator has been appointed; 6. Roles and responsibilities in any particulars included in an annual report. • Appoint a welfare manager to support the whistleblower and 6.1 Employees to protect him or her from any reprisals; DSE will ensure all files, whether paper or electronic, are kept in a secure room and can only be accessed by the protected disclosure • Advise the whistleblower of the progress of an investigation Employees are encouraged to report known or suspected coordinator, protected disclosure officer, the investigator or welfare into the disclosed matter; incidences of improper conduct or detrimental action in manager (in relation to welfare matters). All printed material will be accordance with these procedures. • Establish and manage a confidential filing system; kept in files that are clearly marked as a Whistleblower Protection All employees of DSE have an important role to play in supporting • Collate and publish statistics on disclosures made; Act matter, and warn of the criminal penalties that apply to any those who have made a legitimate disclosure. They must refrain • Take all necessary steps to ensure the identity of the unauthorised divulging information concerning a protected from any activity that is, or could be perceived to be, victimisation whistleblower and the identity of the person who is disclosure. All electronic files will be produced and stored on a or harassment of a person who makes a disclosure. Furthermore, the subject of the disclosure are kept confidential; and stand-alone computer and be given password protection. Backup they should protect and maintain the confidentiality of a person • Liaise with the chief executive officer of the public body. files will be kept on floppy disc. All materials relevant to an they know or suspect to have made a disclosure. investigation, such as tapes from interviews, will also be stored 6.4 Investigator securely with the whistleblower files. The investigator will be responsible for carrying out an internal DSE will not email documents relevant to a whistleblower matter and investigation into a disclosure where the Ombudsman has referred will ensure all phone calls and meetings are conducted in private. a matter to the public body. An investigator may be a person from within an organisation or a consultant engaged for that purpose. 168 8. Collating and publishing statistics • Does the disclosure relate to conduct of a public body or public In either case, the protected disclosure coordinator will make the officer acting in their official capacity? notification and the referral within 14 days of the conclusion being The protected disclosure coordinator will establish a secure reached by the public body. Notification to the whistleblower is register to record the information required to be published in • Is the alleged conduct either improper conduct or detrimental not necessary where the disclosure has been made anonymously. the annual report, and to generally keep account of the status of action taken against a person in reprisal for making a protected whistleblower disclosures. The register will be confidential and will disclosure? not record any information that may identify the whistleblower. • Does the person making a disclosure have reasonable grounds 10. Investigations for believing the alleged conduct has occurred? The register will contain the following information: 10.1 Introduction • The number and types of disclosures made to public bodies Where a disclosure is assessed to be a protected disclosure, it is Where the Ombudsman refers a protected disclosure to DSE for during the year; referred to the protected disclosure coordinator. The protected investigation, the protected disclosure coordinator will appoint disclosure coordinator will determine whether the disclosure is • The number of disclosures referred to the Ombudsman for an investigator to carry out the investigation. a public interest disclosure. determination as to whether they are public interest disclosures; The objectives of an investigation will be: • The number and types of disclosed matters referred to the Where a disclosure is assessed not to be a protected disclosure, the • To collate information relating to the allegation as quickly as public body by the Ombudsman for investigation; matter does not need to be dealt with under the Act. The protected possible. This may involve taking steps to protect or preserve disclosure officer will decide how the matter should be responded • The number and types of disclosures referred by the public documents, materials and equipment; body to the Ombudsman for investigation; to in consultation with the protected disclosure coordinator. • To consider the information collected and to draw conclusions • The number and types of investigations taken over from the 9.2 Is the disclosure a public interest disclosure? objectively and impartially; public body by the Ombudsman; Where the protected disclosure officer or coordinator has received • To maintain procedural fairness in the treatment of witnesses • The number of requests made by a whistleblower to the a disclosure that has been assessed to be a protected disclosure, and the person who is the subject of the disclosure; and Ombudsman to take over an investigation by the public body; the protected disclosure coordinator will determine whether the • To make recommendations arising from the conclusions • The number and types of disclosed matters that the public disclosure amounts to a public interest disclosure. This assessment drawn concerning remedial or other appropriate action. body has declined to investigate; will be made within 45 days of the receipt of the disclosure. • The number and types of disclosed matters that were 10.2 Terms of reference In reaching a conclusion as to whether a protected disclosure is substantiated upon investigation and the action taken on Before commencing an investigation, the protected disclosure a public interest disclosure, the protected disclosure coordinator completion of the investigation; and coordinator will draw up terms of reference and obtain will consider whether the disclosure shows, or tends to show, • Any recommendations made by the Ombudsman that relate authorisation for those terms by the chief executive officer. that the public officer to whom the disclosure relates: to the public body. The terms of reference will set a date by which the investigation • Has engaged, is engaging or proposes to engage in improper report is to be concluded, and will describe the resources available 9. Receiving and assessing disclosures conduct in his or her capacity as a public officer; or to the investigator to complete the investigation within the time • Has taken, is taking or proposes to take detrimental action set. The protected disclosure coordinator may approve, if 9.1 Has the disclosure been made in accordance with Part 2 in reprisal for the making of the protected disclosure. reasonable, an extension of time requested by the investigator. of the Act? Where the protected disclosure coordinator concludes that the The terms of reference will require the investigator to make Where a disclosure has been received by the protected disclosure disclosure amounts to a public interest disclosure, he or she will: regular reports to the protected disclosure coordinator who, in officer or by the protected disclosure coordinator, he or she will turn, is to keep the Ombudsman informed of general progress. assess whether the disclosure has been made in accordance with 1. Notify the person who made the disclosure of that conclusion; Part 2 of the Act and is, therefore, a protected disclosure. and Investigation plan 2. Refer the disclosure to the Ombudsman for formal The investigator will prepare an investigation plan for approval 9.1.1 Has the disclosure been made to the appropriate person? determination as to whether it is indeed a public interest by the protected disclosure coordinator. The plan will list the For the disclosure to be responded to by DSE, it must concern disclosure. issues to be substantiated and describe the avenue of inquiry. an employee, member or officer of DSE. If the disclosure It will address the following issues: Where the protected disclosure coordinator concludes that the concerns an employee, officer or member of another public • What is being alleged? disclosure is not a public interest disclosure, he or she will: body, the person who has made the disclosure must be advised • What are the possible findings or offences? of the correct person or body to whom the disclosure should be 1. Notify the person who made the disclosure of that conclusion; • What are the facts in issue? directed. (See the table in 5.2). If the disclosure has been made and How is the inquiry to be conducted? anonymously, it should be referred to the Ombudsman. • 2. Advise that person that he or she may request the public • What resources are required? body to refer the disclosure to the Ombudsman for a formal 9.1.2 Does the disclosure contain the essential elements of At the commencement of the investigation, the whistleblower a protected disclosure? determination as to whether the disclosure is a public interest disclosure, and that this request must be made within 28 days should be: To be a protected disclosure, a disclosure must satisfy the of the notification. • Notified by the investigator that he or she has been appointed following criteria: to conduct the investigation; • Did a natural person (that is, an individual person rather than • Asked to clarify any matters; and a corporation) make the disclosure? • Provide any additional material he or she might have. 169 The investigator will be sensitive to the whistleblower’s possible 10.6 Referral of an investigation to the Ombudsman Where the investigator’s report is to include an adverse comment fear of reprisals and will be aware of the statutory protections The protected disclosure coordinator will make a decision against any person, that person will be given the opportunity to provided to the whistleblower. regarding the referral of an investigation to the Ombudsman respond and his or her defence will be fairly included in the report. where, on the advice of the investigator: 10.4 Natural justice The report will not disclose particulars likely to lead to the • The investigation is being obstructed by, for example, identification of the whistleblower. The principles of natural justice will be followed in any the non-cooperation of key witnesses; or investigation of a public interest disclosure. The principles of • The investigation has revealed conduct that may constitute 11.2 Action to be taken natural justice concern procedural fairness and ensure a fair a criminal offence. If the protected disclosure coordinator is satisfied that the decision is reached by an objective decision maker. Maintaining investigation has found that the disclosed conduct has occurred, procedural fairness protects the rights of individuals and enhances 10.7 Reporting requirements he or she will recommend to the chief executive officer the action public confidence in the process. The protected disclosure coordinator will ensure the whistleblower that must be taken to prevent the conduct from continuing or DSE will have regard to the following issues in ensuring procedural is kept regularly informed concerning the handling of a protected occurring in the future. The protected disclosure coordinator may fairness: disclosure and an investigation. also recommend that action be taken to remedy any harm or loss • The person who is the subject of the disclosure is entitled arising from the conduct. The protected disclosure coordinator will report to the to know the allegations made against him or her and must Ombudsman about the progress of an investigation. The protected disclosure coordinator will provide a written report be given the right to respond. (This does not mean the person setting out the findings of the investigation and any remedial must be advised of the allegation as soon as the disclosure Where the Ombudsman or the whistleblower requests information steps taken to the Ombudsman, the whistleblower and the is received or the investigation has commenced); about the progress of an investigation, that information will be responsible Minister: provided within 28 days of the date of the request. • If the investigator is contemplating making a report adverse • Hon Candy Broad MLC, Minister for Energy and Resources; or to the interests of any person, that person should be given the • Hon Sheryl Garbutt MP, Minister for Environment and opportunity to put forward further material that may influence 11. Action taken after an investigation Conservation; or the outcome of the report and that person’s defence should be fairly set out in the report; 11.1 Investigator’s final report • Hon Keith Hamilton MP, Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs). • All relevant parties to a matter should be heard and all At the conclusion of the investigation, the investigator will submit submissions should be considered; a written report of his or her findings to the protected disclosure Where the investigation concludes that the disclosed conduct did • A decision should not be made until all reasonable inquiries coordinator. The report will contain: not occur, the protected disclosure coordinator will report these have been made; • The allegation/s: findings to the Ombudsman and to the whistleblower. • The investigator or any decision maker should not have a • An account of all relevant information received and, if the personal or direct interest in the matter being investigated; investigator has rejected evidence as being unreliable, the 12. Managing the welfare of the whistleblower reasons for this opinion being formed; • All proceedings must be carried out fairly and without bias. 12.1 Commitment to protecting whistleblowers Care should be taken to exclude perceived bias from the • The conclusions reached and the basis for them; and process; and • Any recommendations arising from the conclusions. DSE is committed to the protection of genuine whistleblowers against detrimental action taken in reprisal for the making of • The investigator must be impartial in assessing the credibility Where the investigator has found that the conduct disclosed by protected disclosures. The protected disclosure coordinator is of the whistleblowers and any witnesses. Where appropriate, the whistleblower has occurred, recommendations made by the responsible for ensuring whistleblowers are protected from direct conclusions as to credibility should be included in the investigator will include: and indirect detrimental action, and that the culture of the investigation report. • The steps that need to be taken by DSE to prevent the conduct workplace is supportive of protected disclosures being made. 10.5 Conduct of the investigation from continuing or occurring in the future; and The protected disclosure coordinator will appoint a welfare The investigator will make contemporaneous notes of all • Any action that should be taken by DSE to remedy any harm or manager to all whistleblowers who have made a protected discussions and phone calls, and all interviews with witnesses loss arising from the conduct. This action may include bringing disclosure. The welfare manager will: will be taped. All information gathered in an investigation will disciplinary proceedings against the person responsible for the • Examine the immediate welfare and protection needs of a be stored securely. Interviews will be conducted in private and conduct, and referring the matter to an appropriate authority whistleblower who has made a disclosure and, where the the investigator will take all reasonable steps to protect the for further consideration. whistleblower is an employee, seek to foster a supportive identity of the whistleblower. Where disclosure of the identity The report will be accompanied by: work environment; of the whistleblower cannot be avoided, due to the nature of the • The transcript or other record of any oral evidence taken, • Advise the whistleblower of the legislative and administrative allegations, the investigator will warn the whistleblower and his including tape recordings; and protections available to him or her; or her welfare manager of this probability. • All documents, statements or other exhibits received by the • Listen and respond to any concerns of harassment, intimidation It is in the discretion of the investigator to allow any witness to officer and accepted as evidence during the course of the or victimisation in reprisal for making disclosure; have legal or other representation or support during an interview. investigation. If a witness has a special need for legal representation or support, permission should be granted. 170 • Keep a contemporaneous record of all aspects of the case 12.4 Whistleblowers implicated in improper conduct The protected disclosure coordinator will ensure the person who management of the whistleblower including all contact and Where a person who makes a disclosure is implicated in is the subject of any disclosure investigated by or on behalf of a follow-up action; and misconduct, DSE will handle the disclosure and protect the public body is: • Ensure the expectations of the whistleblower are realistic. whistleblower from reprisals in accordance with the Act, the • Informed as to the substance of the allegations; All employees will be advised that it is an offence for a person to Ombudsman’s guidelines and these procedures. DSE acknowledges • Given the opportunity to answer the allegations before a final take detrimental action in reprisal for a protected disclosure. The that the act of whistleblowing should not shield whistleblowers decision is made; from the reasonable consequences flowing from any involvement maximum penalty is a fine of 240 penalty units ($24,000) or two • Informed as to the substance of any adverse comment that may in improper conduct. Section 17 of the Act specifically provides years imprisonment or both. The taking of detrimental action in be included in any report arising from the investigation; and has that a person’s liability for his or her own conduct is not affected breach of this provision can also be grounds for making a • His or her defence set out fairly in any report. disclosure under the Act and can result in an investigation. by the person’s disclosure of that conduct under the Act. However, in some circumstances, an admission may be a mitigating factor Where the allegations in a disclosure have been investigated, Detrimental action includes: when considering disciplinary or other action. and the person who is the subject of the disclosure is aware • Causing injury, loss or damage; The chief executive officer will make the final decision on the of the allegations or the fact of the investigation, the protected • Intimidation or harassment; and advice of the protected disclosure coordinator as to whether disclosure coordinator will formally advise the person who is • Discrimination, disadvantage or adverse treatment in relation disciplinary or other action will be taken against a whistleblower. the subject of the disclosure of the outcome of the investigation. to a person’s employment, career, profession, trade or business Where disciplinary or other action relates to conduct that is the DSE will give its full support to a person who is the subject of (including the taking of disciplinary action). subject of the whistleblower’s disclosure, the disciplinary or other a disclosure where the allegations contained in a disclosure are 12.2 Keeping the whistleblower informed action will only be taken after the disclosed matter has been clearly wrong or unsubstantiated. If the matter has been publicly appropriately dealt with. disclosed, the chief executive officer of DSE will consider any The protected disclosure coordinator will ensure the whistleblower request by that person to issue a statement of support setting is kept informed of action taken in relation to his or her In all cases where disciplinary or other action is being out that the allegations were clearly wrong or unsubstantiated. disclosure, and the time frames that apply. The whistleblower contemplated, the chief executive officer must be satisfied that will be informed of the objectives of an investigation, the findings it has been clearly demonstrated that: of an investigation, and the steps taken by DSE to address any • The intention to proceed with disciplinary action is not causally 14. Criminal offences improper conduct that has been found to have occurred. The connected to the making of the disclosure (as opposed to the DSE will ensure officers appointed to handle protected disclosures whistleblower will be given reasons for decisions made by DSE content of the disclosure or other available information); and all other employees are aware of the following offences in relation to a protected disclosure. All communication with the • There are good and sufficient grounds that would fully justify created by the Act: whistleblower will be in plain English. action against any non-whistleblower in the same circumstances; 1. It is an offence for a person to take detrimental action against and 12.3 Occurrence of detrimental action a person in reprisal for a protected disclosure being made. The • There are good and sufficient grounds that justify exercising Act provides a maximum penalty of a fine of 240 penalty units If a whistleblower reports an incident of harassment, any discretion to institute disciplinary or other action. ($24,000) or two years imprisonment or both. discrimination or adverse treatment that would amount to detrimental action taken in reprisal for the making of the The protected disclosure coordinator will thoroughly document 2. It is an offence for a person to divulge information obtained disclosure, the welfare manager will: the process including recording the reasons why the disciplinary as a result of the handling or investigation of a protected or other action is being taken, and the reasons why the action is • Record details of the incident; disclosure without legislative authority. The Act provides a not in retribution for the making of the disclosure. The protected maximum penalty of 60 penalty units ($6,000) or six months • Advise the whistleblower of his or her rights under the Act; and disclosure coordinator will clearly advise the whistleblower of the imprisonment or both. • Advise the protected disclosure coordinator or chief executive proposed action to be taken, and of any mitigating factors that officer of the detrimental action. have been taken into account. 3. It is an offence for a person to obstruct the Ombudsman in performing his responsibilities under the Act. The Act provides The taking of detrimental action in reprisal for the making of a 13. Management of the person against whom a a maximum penalty of 240 penalty units ($24,000) or two years disclosure can be an offence against the Act as well as grounds imprisonment or both. for making a further disclosure. Where such detrimental action disclosure has been made 4. It is an offence for a person to knowingly provide false is reported, the protected disclosure coordinator will assess the DSE recognises that employees against whom disclosures are made information under the Act with the intention that it be acted on report as a new disclosure under the Act. Where the protected must also be supported during the handling and investigation of as a disclosed matter. The Act provides a maximum penalty of disclosure coordinator is satisfied that the disclosure is a public disclosures. DSE will take all reasonable steps to ensure the 240 penalty units ($24,000) or two years imprisonment or both. interest disclosure, he or she will refer it to the Ombudsman. If the confidentiality of the person who is the subject of the disclosure Ombudsman subsequently determines the matter to be a public during the assessment and investigation process. Where interest disclosure, the Ombudsman may investigate the matter investigations do not substantiate disclosures, the fact that the 15. Review or refer it to another body for investigation as outlined in the Act. investigation has been carried out, the results of the investigation, These procedures will be reviewed annually to ensure they meet the and the identity of the person who is the subject of the disclosure objectives of the Act and accord with the Ombudsman’s guidelines. will remain confidential.
171 Glossary
ARI Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research Biodiversity Growth areas Biological diversity is the variety of all life forms – the Areas on the fringe of metropolitan Melbourne around CAF Community Action Fund different plants, animals and micro-organisms, the genes major regional transport corridors that are designated for CALD Culturally and linguistically diverse they contain, and the ecosystems of which they form large-scale change, over many years, from rural to urban CFA Country Fire Authority a part. use. The new communities of the future will be located in growth areas, with housing, shopping, employment, parks Carbon sinks (greenhouse sinks) CIS Coupe Information System and other features of urban life. Natural or man-made systems that absorb and store CMA Catchment management authority carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Trees, plants Heritage CRC Cooperative Research Centre and the oceans all absorb CO2 and, therefore, are Aesthetic, historic, scientific or social value for past, carbon sinks. present or future generations. CSIRO Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation Catchment Landscape The ecological, social and economic factors which relate DOI Department of Infrastructure An area of land where run-off from rainfall goes into one river system. a particular community’s lived experience to their DPI Department of Primary Industries immediate environment (natural or built). Ecosystem DSE Department of Sustainability and Environment Natural resource A dynamic complex of plant, animal, fungal, and micro- The soil, water, clean air, timber, fish, energy, oil, gas DVC Department for Victorian Communities organism communities and the associated non-living and minerals which represent the collective natural wealth environment interacting as an ecological unit. EES Environment Effects Statement of Victoria. Environmentally sustainable development EPA Environment Protection Authority Victoria Development that improves the total quality of life, now Ramsar Convention ERC Expenditure Review Committee and in the future, in a way that maintains the ecological The common name for the Convention on Wetlands, processes on which life depends. signed in Ramsar, Iran. An intergovernmental treaty ESC Essential Services Commission dedicated to the conservation and wise use of wetlands. ESD Environmentally sustainable development Environment Surroundings in which an organisation operates, including Renewable energy EVC Ecological Vegetation Class air, water, land, natural resources, flora, fauna, humans Energy forms from (practically) inexhaustible sources such as solar, wind, biomass (itself produced from solar GIS Geospatial Information System and their interrelations. energy and minerals) and geothermal sources. INRM Integrated natural resource management Greenhouse effect The warming of the earth’s surface caused by greenhouse Salinity IPS Indigenous Partnerships Strategy gases in the lower atmosphere. These gases regulate the The total amount of water-soluble salts present in the LX Land Exchange earth’s temperature – making it capable of sustaining life soil or in a stream. – by retaining some of the heat that otherwise would NAP National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality Sustainability radiate back into space. Sustainability is the state of dynamic equilibrium where NRE Department of Natural Resources and Environment Growth our social and economic needs are met in a way that OFOF Our Forests, Our Future Increase in the economic development (production, allows biological processes to continue undiminished. OHS Occupational health and safety profitability, distribution, wealth) of Victoria’s land and Sustainable development natural resource based industries. Development which meets the needs of the present UDP Urban Development Program without compromising the ability of future generations VGS Victorian Greenhouse Strategy to meet their own needs. VLRP Voluntary Licence Reduction Program Triple-bottom-line Integrated approach to the achievement of environmental, VPMF Victorian Pest Management Framework social and economic outcomes.
172 Publications
DSE’s major publications are listed below. All Firemap: Victoria East and West: 2003, 2 cd-roms, Melbourne 2030: Planning for sustainable growth: departmental publications can be viewed on-site at May 2003 implementation plan, December 2002 the library located at level 8, 240 Victoria Parade, The fisheries biology of bluethroat wrasse (Notolabrus Monitoring Greater Melbourne, September 2002. East Melbourne. They may also be borrowed on an tetricus) in Victoria waters: final report, June 2003 inter-library loan. Moving towards sustainable biosolids management: Flying-fox: relocating Melbourne’s flying foxes from the a cooperative venture, October 2002 Audits of compliance with the code of practice for fire Royal Botanic Gardens to Horseshoe Bend, Ivanhoe, March management on public land: conducted in Victoria’s parks Murray-Darling basin salinity management strategy: 2003 and forests in 2001, July 2002 Victoria’s 2001–2002, February 2003 Forest management areas: estimates of sawlog resources, BassGas project: Yolla Gas Field development/assessment, Natural Resources and Environment’s (Dept of.) food cd-rom, March 2003 September 2002 safety strategy, April 2003 Forestry as agriculture: a landholders guide to plantation Biodiversity conservation in intensive grazing systems: A new development contributions system for Victoria, & farming economics in Gippsland, July 2002 riparian and in-stream management, March 2003 June 2003 Forestry rights and carbon sequestration rights, December Biosites: sites of biodiversity significance in Port Phillip and New water for Victoria: Victoria’s water recycling action 2002 Westernport region: Victoria, cd-rom, November 2002 plan, November 2002 Gippsland boating coastal action plan, December 2002 Boort West of Loddon: Land and water management plan Oil spill dispersants and temperate marine environments: 1994–2002: a success story in managing salinity, Greenhouse effect and climate change, September 2002 a literature review to support development of dispersant use protocols for Victoria, December 2002 November 2002 Guide to road naming in Victoria, July 2002 Our forests, our future: balancing communities, jobs and Bushfire recovery 2003: information and resource kit, Health of our catchments: a Victorian report card 2002, the environment: Victorian Government policy statement April 2003 December 2002 on forests, December 2002 Catchment management in Victoria: explaining Victoria’s Influence of remnant trees retained within native Private forestry: a pocket guide for Victoria, December catchment management authorities, March 2003 hardwood plantations on the diversity and abundance 2002 Climate change in Victoria: high resolution regional of birds 2000–2001, July 2002 Productive grazing, healthy rivers: improving riparian assessment of climate change impacts, September 2002 Information privacy policy, October 2002 and in-stream biodiversity, March 2003 Committee of management responsibilities and good International and world heritage values of Wilsons Protecting heritage in a changing Melbourne: summary, practice guidelines: Crown Land Management, July 2002 Promontory National Park: report, July 2002 2002 Community attitudes to environmental issues: statewide Land Victoria Highlights 2002, March 2003 and regional overview, November 2002. Protocols, principles and strategies agreement for Landcare action plan community consultation report: Indigenous involvement in land and water management Community surface water management systems 2002, results of the public comment on the draft: ‘Healthy in the North Central region, Victoria: information kit, July 2002 landscapes – sustainable communities’ Internet only, June 2003 Cows in the greenhouse: winning ways for diary farmers, October 2002 Regional management plan guidelines: 2002–2003, November 2002 Landcare in Victoria: a review of the environmental, November 2002 Ecosystem services through land stewardship practices: economic and social impacts, October 2002 Regional matters: an atlas of regional Victoria, 2002 issues and options, June 2003 Landcare support roles in Victoria 2001, October 2002 Reference group on decision-making processes, report 1. Energy for Victoria: a statement by the Minister for Energy Melbourne 2030: Planning for sustainable growth, using and interpreting local policy, 2002 and Resources, November 2002 October 2002 Regulatory impact statement: Land Conservation (Vehicle Evaluation of the on-farm benefits and costs of irrigation Melbourne 2030: Planning for sustainable growth: Control) Regulations 2003, November 2002 technologies: final report, July 2002 implementation in the planning system advisory note, Regulatory impact statement: Forest (You Yangs) Regional October 2002 Park 2002, October 2002
173 Regulatory impact statement: National Parks (Park) For all general inquiries contact the Customer Service Centre Regulations 2003, May 2003 on 136 186, email [email protected] or visit www.dse.vic.gov.au Revegetation resources directory for the North East catchment management area. 2nd. ed, March 2003 Metropolitan offices Review of models for predicting soil erosion with reference to application in catchments in Victoria, September 2002 8 Nicholson Street East Melbourne Victoria 3002 Australia Tel (03) 9637 8000 Fax (03) 9637 8148 www.dse.vic.gov.au SmartCountry: final report, March 2003 Land Victoria State of water (Government policy), July 2002 Marland House 570 Bourke Street Melbourne Victoria 3000 Stormwater education manual, November 2002 Ph (03) 8636 2000 Fax (03) 8636 2999 Tragowel Plains land and water management plan 1990–2002: a success story in managing salinity, Regional offices November 2002 Gippsland Victoria’s native vegetation management: a framework 71 Hotham Street Traralgon Victoria 3844 for action, October 2002 Ph (03) 5172 2111 Fax (03) 5172 2100 Victorian food and fibre export statistics: 1990 to 1999 North East (1999), May 2003 35 Sydney Road Benalla Victoria 3672 Ph (03) 5761 1611 Fax (03) 5761 1628 Victorian greenhouse gas inventory: 1999, February 2003 North West Victorian greenhouse strategy, July 2002 Corner Midland Highway and Taylor Street Bendigo Victoria 3551 Victorian hunting guide: 2003, February 2003 Ph (03) 5430 4444 Fax (03) 5448 4982 Victorian rivers: an environmental report card, South West August 2002 402-406 Mair Street Ballarat Victoria 3350 Ph 136 186 Fax (03) 5333 6713 Werribee Plains: vision for a sustainable future, December 2002 Port Phillip 30 Prospect Street Box Hill Victoria 3128 Werribee plains: a vision for sustainable growth: Ph (03) 9296 4400 Fax (03) 9890 0075 community and key stakeholder consultation stage one report, December 2002 Feedback Werribee vision: meet the challenge, July 2002 To improve our annual report for next year, we welcome your feedback. Please email your comments to [email protected] or contact our annual report coordinator on telephone 136 186 or (03) 9637 8000.
174 Major locations and contact information
Mildura
Robinvale Major Regional Office Towns
Swan Hill
Kerang Cohuna Cobram Yarrawonga NORTH WEST Echuca Rutherglen Wodonga Corryong Kyabram Wangaratta Beechworth Shepparton Tatura Benalla St Arnaud Bright Horsham Bendigo NORTH EAST Seymour Mansfield Stawell Castlemaine SOUTH WEST Alexandra Ararat Daylesford Creswick GIPPSLAND Ballarat Bacchus Marsh PORT PHILLIP Orbost Hamilton Melbourne Bairnsdale Werribee Box Hill Geelong Frankston Moe Sale Portland Warragul Traralgon Colac Warnambool Torquay Leongatha Yarram
Key sites based on staff numbers 175 Clause Disclosure Page Report of Operations Charter and purpose 9.1.3 (i) (a) Manner of establishment and relevant Minister 4 9.1.3 (i) (b) Objectives, functions, powers and duties 4 9.1.3 (i) (c) Services provided and persons or sections of community served 2, 4, 6 Management and structure 9.1.3 (i) (d) (i) Names of governing board members, audit committee and chief executive officer 76, 77 9.1.3 (i) (d) (ii) Names of senior office holders and brief description of each office 6 9.1.3 (i) (d) (iii) Chart setting out organisational structure 9 9.1.3 (i) (e) Workforce data and application of merit and equity principles 87, 88 9.1.3 (i) (f) Application and operation of FOI Act 1982 161 Financial and other information 9.1.3 (ii) (a) Summary of financial results with previous four year comparatives 16 9.1.3 (ii) (b) Summary of significant changes in financial position 155 9.1.3 (ii) (c) Operational & budgetary objectives for the year and performance against those objectives 19–72, 153 9.1.3 (ii) (d) Major changes or factors affecting achievement of objectives 16 9.1.3 (ii) (e) Events subsequent to balance date 143 9.1.3 (ii) (f) Consultancies > $100,000 – Full details of each consultancy 160 9.1.3 (ii) (g) Consultancies < $100,000 – Number and total cost of consulting engagements 160 9.1.3 (ii) (h) Extent of compliance with Building Act 1993 161 9.1.3 (ii) (i) Statement that information listed in Part 9.1.3 (iv) is available on request 165 9.1.3 (ii) (k) Statement on implementation and compliance with National Competition Policy 163 9.8.2 (i) A statement of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) matters 87 9.8.2 (ii) OHS performance measures 87 Financial Report Preparation 9.2.2 (ii) (a) Statement of preparation on an accrual basis 96 9.2.2 (ii) (b) Statement of compliance with Australian Accounting Standards and associated pronouncements 96 9.2.2 (ii) (c) Statement of compliance with accounting policies issued by the Minister for Finance 96 Statement of financial operations 9.2.2 (i) (a) A statement of financial operations for the year 92 9.2.3 (ii) (a) Operating revenue by class 92 9.2.3 (ii) (b) Investment income by class 92 9.2.3 (ii) (c) Other material revenue by class including sale of non-goods assets and contributions of assets 118 9.2.3 (ii) (d) Material revenues arising from exchanges of goods or services 115 9.2.3 (ii) (e) Depreciation, amortisation or diminution in value 118 9.2.3 (ii) (f) Bad and doubtful debts 118
176 Compliance index
Clause Disclosure Page 9.2.3 (ii) (g) Financing costs 119 9.2.3 (ii) (h) Net increment or decrement on the revaluation of each category of assets 125 9.2.3 (ii) (i) Auditor-General’s fees 138 Statement of financial position 9.2.2 (i) (b) A statement of financial position for the year 93 Assets 9.2.3 (iii) (a) (i) Cash at bank or in hand 120 9.2.3 (iii) (a) (ii) Inventories by class 122 9.2.3 (iii) (a) (iii) Receivables, including trade debtors, loans and other debtors 121 9.2.3 (iii) (a) (iv) Other assets, including prepayments 127, 128, 93 9.2.3 (iii) (a) (v) Investments by class 133 9.2.3 (iii) (a) (vi) Property, plant and equipment 123, 124, 125 9.2.3 (iii) (a) (vii) Intangible assets 127 Liabilities 9.2.3 (iii) (b) (i) Overdrafts 120 9.2.3 (iii) (b) (ii) Bank loans, bills payable, promissory notes, debentures and other loans 129 9.2.3 (iii) (b) (iii) Trade and other creditors 129 9.2.3 (iii) (b) (iv) Finance lease liabilities 139 9.2.3 (iii) (b) (v) Provisions, including employee entitlements 129 Equity 9.2.3 (iii) (c) (i) Authorised capital 129 9.2.3 (iii) (c) (ii) Issued capital 130, 131, 132 9.2.3 (iii) (d) Reserves, and transfers to and from reserves (shown separately) 130 Statement of cash flows 9.2.2 (i) (c) A statement of cash flows for the year 94 Notes to the financial statements 9.2.2 (i) (d) Ex-gratia payments 143 9.2.2 (i) (d) Amounts written off 119 9.2.3 (iv) (a) Charges against assets N/A 9.2.3 (iv) (b) Contingent liabilities 138 9.2.3 (iv) (c) Commitments for expenditure 139 9.2.3 (iv) (d) Government grants received or receivable and source 94 9.2.3 (iv) (e) Employee superannuation funds 140 9.2.3 (iv) (f) Assets received without adequate consideration 92 9.4.2 Transactions with responsible persons and their related parties 136 9.7.2 Motor vehicle lease commitments 139 9.10 Consistency of budget and departmental reporting [departments only] 116 177 Alphabetical index
Page Page Page A H S Alpine resorts 34, 36 Heritage conservation 67 Secretary’s foreword 2 Alpine ash seed collection 51 Highlights 12 Service delivery 81 Appendixes 149 Snowy River 21 Area Improvement Program 72 I Social performance 84 Awards 89 Indigenous Partnerships Strategy 84 Structure 9 aWay with Waste 82 Information, Communication and Knowledge 78 Sustainability Policy and Programs 56 Sustainable Cities and Regions 64 B L Basslink 65 Land Exchange 54 T Box-Ironbark parks 38 Land Information 52 Threatened species 31 Business cycle 78 Leaders 6 Transit Cities 72 Triple bottom line summary 16 C M Catchment and Water 20 Machinery of government changes 5 U Clients and stakeholders 6 Major locations and contact information 174 Urban and Regional Research 60 Compliance index 176 Marine emblem 34 Conservation, Recreation and Public Land 30 Marine parks 38 V Corporate governance 76 Melbourne 2030 60 Victorian Pest Management Framework 26 Customer services 81 Ministerial support 78 Victorian River Health Strategy 26 Victorian Water Resources Data Warehouse 25 D N Victoria’s alpine fires 44 Development contributions 70 Native vegetation management 26 Vision 10 Voluntary Licence Reduction Program 50 E O Environment assessment reform 65 Occupational Health and Safety 87 W Essential Services Commission 21 Organisational Performance 75 Werribee Plains vision 27 Wetlands 31 F P Wind farm guidelines 70 People performance 86 Financial Report 91 Workforce information 87 Fires map 2002–03 42 Portland wind energy project 65, 71 Forest and Fire Management 40 Port Phillip Bay 31 Y Pre-lodgement certification 69 Yarra Plan 72 G Pride of Place 72, 73 Year at a glance 13 Gippsland Water Monitoring Partnership 25 Publications 173 Glenelg Hopkins 24, 26 Public Heritage Program 67 Glossary 172 Great Ocean Road Region Strategy 62,63 R Greenhouse 49, 57 Regional services 81 Green wedges 60, 61, 68 Research and development 78 Grey-headed flying foxes 32 Report of operations 19
178 Published by the Victorian Government Department of Sustainability and Environment Melbourne, October 2003 Also published on www.dse.vic.gov.au © The State of Victoria Department of Sustainability and Environment 2003. This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968. Authorised by the Victorian Government, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne Printed by Vega Press 274 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill ISSN 1327 6344 For more information contact the DSE Customer Service Centre 136 186 Disclaimer This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. www.dse.vic.gov.au