REPORT OF INTERSTATE AND OVERSEAS TRAVEL UNDERTAKEN BY MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT FUNDED BY THE IMPREST SYSTEM
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE 2011
This report contains a summary of all interstate and overseas travel undertaken by Members of Parliament on official business funded by the Imprest system.
REPORT OF INTERSTATE AND OVERSEAS TRAVEL UNDERTAKEN BY MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE 2011 FUNDED BY THE IMPREST SYSTEM
MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT PARLIAMENT TRAVEL - IMPREST SYSTEM
INTERSTATE TRAVEL
I BRITZA MLA (M) 08-Apr-11 11-Apr-11 HOBART INVITED TO SPEAK TO KAREN $3,037 PEOPLE AND MEETINGS WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF STATESIDE CONSTRUCTIONS
J QUIGLEY MLA (M) 17-Apr-11 20-Apr-11 SYDNEY VARIOUS MEETINGS FOR $1,630 TOURISM AND TRAINING PROJECT
P TINLEY MLA (M) 19-Apr-11 26-Apr-11 CANBERRA, SERIES OF MEETINGS $4,080 SYDNEY RELATED TO WESTERN AUSTRALIA
HON T STEPHENS MLA (M) 25-Apr-11 01-May-11 CANBERRA, MEETINGS WITH MINISTERIAL $4,227 SYDNEY OFFICE STAFF IN CANBERRA AND MEETING IN REFERENCE TO SPONSORSHIP OF AN INDIGENOUS PROJECT
J WOOLLARD MLA (M) 02-May-11 06-May-11 MELBOURNE VARIOUS MEETINGS $4,678 REGARDING EARLY CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND EDUCATION
T SIMPSON MLA (M) 13-May-11 15-May-11 HOBART DEAF AUSTRALIA INC. $1,884 NATIONAL CONFERENCE AND 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
L BAKER MLA (M) 13-May-11 15-May-11 BRISBANE NATIONAL LABOR WOMEN S $1,974 CONFERENCE
C MARTIN MLA (M) 13-May-11 16-May-11 BRISBANE NATIONAL LABOR WOMEN S $4,577 CONFERENCE
J FREEMAN MLA (M) 14-May-11 15-May-11 BRISBANE NATIONAL LABOR WOMEN S $4,502 CONFERENCE
HON J FORD MLC (M) 27-May-11 30-May-11 CANBERRA, CONFERENCE AT PARLIAMENT $2,412 SYDNEY HOUSE IN CANBERRA AND BRIEFING AT THE AUSTRALIAN NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ORGANISATION IN SYDNEY
J WOOLLARD MLA (M) 31-May-11 01-Jun-11 CANBERRA ATTENDED EVENTS PUBLIC $2,557 HEALTH ASSOCIATIONS - MARK AUSTRALIA S LEADERSHIP AND WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION - WORLD NO TOBACCO DAY 2011
HON C BARNETT MLA (M) 24-Jun-11 25-Jun-11 CANBERRA 55TH FEDERAL COUNCIL OF $3,850 THE LIBERAL PARTY OF AUSTRALIA
OVERSEAS TRAVEL M WHITELY MLA (M) 05-Apr-11 24-May-11 USA ADDRESS THE EMPATHIC $1,311 THERAPY CONFERENCE IN SYRACUSE
P WATSON MLA (M) 20-Apr-11 07-May-11 TURKEY INVITED BY MAYOR OF $2,950 GELIBOLU (GALLIPOLI) TO ATTEND ANZAC DAY DAWN SERVICE
J FREEMAN MLA (M) 21-Apr-11 04-May-11 TURKEY ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR - $9,520
B JOHNSTON MLA (M) 23-Apr-11 01-May-11 TURKEY ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR $5,440
I BLAYNEY MLA (M) 12-May-11 16-May-11 CHINA VISITED ANSTEEL TO VIEW - $7,186 FINAL PRODUCT AND DANDONG TO PROPOSE GERALDTON AS SISTER CITY
HON T STEPHENS MLA (M) 20-May-11 11-Jun-11 USA VARIOUS MEETINGS TO - $7,644 ASSIST IN PARLIAMENTARY AND ELECTORATE WORK
HON N GOIRAN MLC (M) 27-May-11 04-Jun-11 CANADA THIRD INTERNATIONAL $4,267 SYMPOSIUM ON EUTHANASIA AND ASSISTED SUICIDE
B JOHNSTON MLA (M) 17-Jun-11 22-Jun-11 INDONESIA ARCPF CONFERENCE $1,890
A MITCHELL MLA (M) 27-Jun-11 14-Jul-11 UNITED KINGDOM, VARIOUS CONFERENCES $1,988 SINGAPORE
TOTAL FOR PARLIAMENT TRAVEL - IMPREST SYSTEM VISITS: 21 $81,605 IAN M BRITZA, MLA
INTERSTATE TRAVEL
REPORT
A REPORT ON THE PURPOSE AND BENEFITS DERIVED FROM A TRIP TO HOBART, TASMANIA
8- 10 APRIL 2011
SUITE 1, CENTRO GALLERIA
COLLIER ROAD, MORLEY PURPOSE OF TRIP
At the request of Mr Paul Kway, I accepted his invitation to have me come to Hobart, Tasmania and speak to his community - the Karen people - to assist them in integrating into the community. It was also my intention to introduce them to a philanthropist who could assist them personally and financially.
The second purpose of this trip was to meet with representatives of Stateside Constructions and discuss their strategy for affordable housing. I received support from the Community Development and Justice Committee, on which I serve, to gather more information that could serve our current inquiry into affordable social housing.
COST OF TRIP
The cost to the Department of Premier and Cabinet amounted to $3037. This amount is made up of airfare and three nights' accommodation.
ITINERARY
FRIDAY 8TH APRIL
I attended an appointment with representatives of Stateside Constructions and discussed all matters pertaining to affordable homes and their suitability for other States in Australia, apart from Tasmania. I saw several exhibition homes and a couple of homes that were actually constructed for suburbia, rather than the usual holiday recreational properties.
SATURDAY 9TH APRIL
I spent most of the day with the National Representative of the Karen people, Mr Paul Kway. Discussions were held to find possible outcomes in assisting the Karen community, particulary in Hobart, to intergrate into the community and to have a representative who could speak English on their behalf. The desire to have an English speaking Karen person within the community was the main source of concern.
I spoke at a public evening meeting at the Hobart Baptist Church dealing with Karen issues in Tasmania. Mr Paul Kway presented a powerpoint history and purpose of the Karen people in Burma and here in Australia and then time was set aside for questions.
SUNDAY 10 THAPRIL
I was the guest speaker at the Karen church service held in the Hobart Baptist Church. Mr Peter Conran, Director General Department of Premier & Cabinet 4 5-75j--N„
26h Floor, Governor Stirling Tower / Attention: Laurie Birrell IMPREST REPORT — SYDNEY APRIL 2011 I wish to report upon my trip to Sydney for the days 18, 19 and 20 April 2011. I travelled to Sydney on the evening of Sunday 17 April and return to Perth on the evening of Wednesday 20 April 2011. I stayed in the hotel for the nights of Sunday 17, Monday 18 and Tuesday 19th. The purpose of my trip was twofold, firstly, to confer with a senior Barrister in Sydney concerning the limits of Parliamentary Privilege. A further purpose of the trip was to meet with the Shadow Attorney General for New South Wales, Mr Paul Lynch, the Member for Liverpool. I discussed the general approaches to the Shadow portfolio of Attorney General, and in particular, the hollowness of entering law and order auctions in front of the community but rather concentrate on deficiencies in the judicial system and the law as it effects social justice. Mr Lynch is also a legal practitioner. On the afternoon of Wednesday 20 April 2011 I attended at the office of the Federal Attorney General, the Honourable Robert McClelland, where I discussed with his senior advisers, amongst other things, a national structure for the legal profession. After giving due consideration to the arguments in favour of a national structure for the legal professional I remain wholly supportive of the position taken in Western Australia, by the WA Bar Association, the Law Society of WA and the Attorney General, that Western Australia should have an independent profession in Western Australia, which has at its pinnacle, the Chief Justice of Western Australia and the Justices of the Supreme Court of Western Australia and retain our own admissions to legal practice in Western Australia and disciplinary structures for the legal profession in Western Australia. Yours sincerely, JOHN QUIGLEY LLB JP MLA Member for Mindarie PO Box 2024 CLARKSON WA 6030 OFFICE: SUITE 35, OCEAN KEYS SHOPPING CENTRE, 36 OCEAN KEYS BOULEVARD, CLARKSON WA 6030 (Opposite Clarkson Library) PH: 9407 8600 FAx: 9407 8644 EMAIL: [email protected] 6 - 7d • oer for Wi acee r■ ECE/yED Brnier4 cab S 3, Simms"Roadc, Ha Email: p- - ; p .w a. g o v. a Phone: (08) 9331 8015 Mr P Conran Fax: (08) 331 8017 Director General Department of Premier and Cabinet 197 St Georges Terrace PERTH WA 6000 Dear Mr Conran, On the 19th of April I travelled to Sydney and Canberra for a series of meetings related to my interests in Western Australia. My meetings and activities included the following: o Appear on the SBS Insight program • Meet CEO of Sydney Rabbitohs, Mr Shane Richardson and staff. • Meet CIO of Fuji Xerox Australia, Mr Craig Gibbons. • Visit the Royal Military College Canberra • Meet with the office of Senator Kim Carr • Escort a constituent group visiting parliament house • Attend Anzac Day memorial services • Meet D/CoS Army, Col Simon Stuart o Meet productivity commission Key outcomes of this visit include: • Understand the ICT industry nationally • Develop networks in the NRL o Learn about military careers for constituents o Understanding productivity initiatives in Australia This knowledge will assist me in to contribute to debate and development of issues of importance to the constituents of Willagee and Western Australia generally. Yours sin I Peter Member for Willa Labor Spokespers or Local Jobs facebook.com/tinleymla Local Leadership for Willagee Parliament House Perth WA 6000 Friday 1st July 2011 Director General Department of Premier & Cabinet 197 St George's Tce PERTH WA 6000 ATTENTION: Ms Mandy Enright - Executive Government Services: [email protected] Dear Director General IMPREST REPORT Imprest allowance for travel was incurred as follows: 1. Airfare costs: $1401.84 x 2 (Perth-Canberra; Sydney-Perth) 2. Travel Allowance: $750 (Sydney: 28/29/30 April 2011) 3. Car Hire Completed Itinerary: T&A Stephens Mon 25 April: Ex Perth QF480/812 Arr Canberra: PM: Meeting with staff officer from Federal Ministerial Office Tues 26 April AM: National Gallery of Australia - Irish in Australia Exhibition Wed 27 April AM: National Library: Manuscripts Room Thurs 28 April Travel to Sydney by road Friday 29 th April AM: Corporate Headquarters Visit: Sponsorship Indigenous Project NW PM: Mitchell Library: Parliamentary Research Saturday 30 th April All Day: Progressive Australia Conference Sunday 1 st May All Day: Progressive Australia Conference 5.50pm: Ex Sydney: QF571 8.45pm: Arr Perth The purpose of the travel was to enable parliamentary work in Canberra and Sydney. The appointments/meetings scheduled include: 1. Meetings with Ministerial office staff in Canberra in reference to Pilbara electorate issues; 2. parliamentary research at the National Library in Canberra in the reading room for manuscripts; 3. visit to the National Museum exhibition on the Irish in Australia with reference to the sections of relevance to WA and the Kimberley/Pilbara; 4. meeting in Sydney with a corporate group in reference to the sponsorship of a North West indigenous project; 5. parliamentary research at the Mitchell Library in Sydney in the reading room for manuscripts; 6. meeting in Sydney with parties involved in a Pilbara constituency issue; 7. attending the Progressive Australia Conference at the University of Sydney Law School. Your since-rely2 Tom Stephens, MLA Member for Pilbara REPORT BY DR JA ]ET WCOLLARD MLA MEMBER FOR ALFRED CC77 VIS TO MELBOURNE 2 - 6 2011 2 SUMMARY This report is a summary of my visit and meetings in Melbourne in May 2011. The purpose of the visit was to learn about more about Victoria s approach to early child development and education. In particular to learn how Victoria has responded to the physical, emotional, social growth and learning of children through the implementation of innovative policies and programs. During the five-day visit I met with several child health experts. This enabled me to gain an overview of the policies, programs and services that have been embraced to enhance the health, wellbeing and development of children in the 0-8 age group. The cost of my visit was $4677.60. Details of costs of my travel are attached. The objectives for the five-day visit to Melbourne were: a) To understand the policies, programs and services that Victoria has implemented to achieve better outcomes for children. In particular those created under the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development. b) To understand how the creation and investment into the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development has led to significant improvements in early childhood development. c) To understand the key challenges facing early childhood development, learning and education on a state, national and international level. d) To gather information on policies in other states and countries that could be adopted in Western Australia to enhance the health, wellbeing and development of children and bring the state in line with other states and countries. This report presents a summary of these factors in addition to a comparison of the role of Community Child Health Nurses and School Health Nurses in each State. Page 2 of 51 3 ITINERARY FOR DR JANET WOOLLARD MLA PAGE MONDAY Arrive at Melbourne Airport 2 May 2011 2:45pm TUESDAY 3.1.1 Dinner meeting with Professor John Toumbourou, 8 3 May 2011 Chair in Health Psychology, School of Psychology, Deakin University 5:00pm WEDNESDAY 3.2.1 Meeting with Ms Anne Colahan, Manager, Maternal 13 4 May 2011 and Child Health, Office for Children and Portfolio Coordination 2:30pm Department of Education and Early Childhood Development Level 11, 35 Spring Street, Melbourne WEDNESDAY 3.2.2 Meeting with Mr Paul Linossier, Acting Deputy 22 4 May 2011 Secretary, Office for Children and Portfolio Coordination, Mr Andrew Abbott, General Manager, Strategy and 4:00pm Coordination Division, Office for Planning Strategy and Coordination and Mr Don Siemon, Manager, Statewide Policy and Coordination Department of Education and Early Childhood Development Level 1, 2 Treasury Place, East Melbourne THURSDAY 3.3.1 Meeting with Dr Suzanne Hood, Principal Policy 30 5 May 2011 Advisor, Child and Family Data, Outcomes and Evaluation Division, Office for Children and Portfolio Coordination 3:00pm Department of Education and Early Childhood Development Level 1, 2 Treasury Place, East Melbourne Page 3 of 51 4 THURSDAY 3.3.2 Meeting with Dr Jenny Proimos, Principal Medical 32 5 May 2011 Adviser/Project Assistant, Child and Adolescent Health and Wellbeing Division, Office for Children and Portfolio 4:00pm Coordination Department of Education and Early Childhood Development Level 1, 2 Treasury Place, East Melbourne FRIDAY Depart Melbourne for Perth 6 May 2011 8:15pm ATTACHMENTS COSTS Imprest System Application for Travel Entitlement QANTAS Airport Transfers Hotels and Meals Page 4 of 51 5 TABLE OF CONTENTS SUMMARY 2 liiNERARY FOR DR JANET WOOLLARD MLA 3 MEt I1NG 3 MAY 2011 8 Dinner meeting with Professor John Toumbourou 8 Cross-age Tutoring and Mentoring 8 Early Childhood Development Models 9 Australian Temperament Project: http://www.aifs.gov.au/atp/ 9 Investing In Our Youth : http://www.investinginouryouth.com.au/ 9 The Good Behaviour Game : 10 Seattle Social Development Project: http://www.ssdp-tip.org/ 11 Early Childhood Development Data 11 The AEDI 11 MEE11NGS OF 4 May 2011 13 Meeting with Anne Colahan 13 History of Victoria s Department of Education and Early Childhood Development 13 Early Childhood Services in Western Australia 14 Comparison of the provision of early childhood services in Victoria and WA 16 Victoria s Maternal and Child Health 17 Influential International Experts 18 Dr Charles Pascal 18 Dr Jack Shonkoff 18 Dr Frances Page Glascoe 20 The Victorian Child and Adolescent Outcomes Framework 21 Meeting with Mr Paul Linossier, Mr Andrew Abbott and Mr Don Siemon 22 Page 5 of 51 6 Organisational Structure 22 International Studies 24 Dr James Heckman 24 Perry Pre-school Study 24 Effective Provision of Pre-School Education project (EPPE) 25 Australian National Agreements and Strategies 25 International Reports 28 Australian and International Experts 28 Dr Joseph Sparling 28 Professor Collette Tayler 29 MEE11NGS OF 5 May 2011 30 Meeting with Dr Suzanne Hood 30 The State of Victoria s Children 30 The Victorian Child and Adolescent Monitoring System 30 Meeting with Dr Jenny Proimos 32 Organisations 32 The Foundation for Young Australians (FYA): http://www.fya.org.au/ 32 Noah s Ark: http://www.noahsarkinc.org.au/ 33 Very Special Kids: http://www.vsk.org.au/ 33 Berry Street: http://www.berrystreet.org.au/ 33 STREAT: http://streat.com.au/ 33 Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders 34 Dr Elizabeth Elliott is: 34 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare and Children s Headline Indicators 35 Early Childhood Development: International and Australia 36 MATERNAL, COMMUNITY, CHILD HEALTH AND SCHOOL HEALTH NURSES IN AUSTRALIA 38 Page 6 of 51 7 VICTORIA 38 Victorian Maternal and Child Health (VMCH) 38 Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) 39 School Nurses 40 SOUTH AUSTRALIA 41 Services offered include 41 School Nurses 42 NEW SOUTH WALES 43 Services Offered 43 School Nurses 44 QUEENSLAND 44 Services Offered 45 School Nurses 46 TASMANIA 47 Services Offered 47 School Nurses 48 Table of Child Health Information for each State. 49 Page 7 of 51 8 MEETING 3 MAY 2011 Dinner meeting with Professor John Toumbourou On Tuesday evening, 3 May 2011, I met with Professor John Toumbourou who is: - Honorary Senior Research Fellow within the Murdoch Children s Research Institute at the Centre for Adolescent Health (Royal Children s Hospital Melbourne); and - Chair in Health Psychology within the School of Psychology at Deakin University. His areas of expertise in research and social advocacy include: child and adolescent health promotion; and - the prevention of alcohol and drug problems, including o positive youth development; o drug abuse prevention and treatment; o evaluation; and o the role of community, family and peer groups in adolescent health promotion. During our meeting, Professor Toumbourou discussed: Cross-age Tutoring and Mentoring Early Childhood Development Models Early Childhood Development Data Cross-age Tutoring and Mentoring Professor Toumbourou advocates the idea that students from wealthier schools could engage with students in less wealthy schools. This engagement might assist children that are having problems in schools where resources are limited. He suggests cross-age tutoring, mentoring, and building social capital as part of a brother/sister program between wealthier and less wealthy schools. Page 8 of 51 9 In this type of approach to learning, he suggests schools participating in a brother/sister program could receive more Federal funding, especially where higher performing schools are helping lower performing schools. According to Professor Toumbourou, cross-age tutoring could help both the mentee and the mentor. He suggests a brother/sister program could help children as they help others. The mentor is building skills based on the idea that as we teach we learn more , while the mentee learns new knowledge and learns that someone is interested in them. Professor Toumbourou suggested such a program could empower children to become part of the solution to some problems in child education and development. This type of brother/sister mentoring program could have unintended consequences if Federal funding is dependent on participation. Parents of students at higher performing schools may be reluctant to allow their children to participate. Some private schools could refuse funding and instead increase their tuition fees, potentially creating a number of elite schools and effectively a two-tiered system in education. Already in Western Australia there are some schools in the metropolitan area that have partnered with other metropolitan and with regional schools. This collaborative approach to learning can enhance the educational experience for students at both schools. Early Call cD, D D :I Development Models Australian Temperament Project: http://www.aifs.gov.au/atp/ Professor Toumbourou mentioned the Australian Temperament Project. This study has followed young people s psychological development from infancy to adulthood and has investigated factors that contribute to adjustment and wellbeing. Children who have participated in the program in Victoria are now in their late 20s . Investing In Our Youth : http://www.investinginouryouth.com.au/ Professor Toumbourou discussed the organisation Investing In Our Youth which seeks to promote the healthy development of children and young people and create opportunities for them to participate in the community. Page 9 of 51 10 `Investing In Our Youth is based on a model of prevention and community mobilisation called Communities That Care developed by Professor J David Hawkins and Professor Richard F Catalano, at the University of Washington, Seattle, USA. Communities That Care promotes communities taking responsibility for children and young people. The model identifies and addresses key areas that promote healthy development. The model s goals are to prevent children and young people from becoming engaged in problem behaviours such as delinquency, crime and drug abuse. `Communities That Care programs that have been undertaken in Australia include: `Strengthening Generations in Ballarat; Communities That Care in Mornington Peninsula Shire; and Investing In Our Youth in Bunbury. Professor Toumbourou suggests the Bunbury cost effective prevention model could be expanded in Western Australia. He suggests that it could assist students learning how to deal with conflicts in various situations. In Bunbury there is a full time officer for Investing In Our Youth . The Bunbury program has resulted in: A decrease in a child s risk factors such as: low neighbourhood attachment; low commitment to school; - perceived availability of drugs; and - rebelliousness. 2. An increase in protective factors such as: - opportunities and rewards for social involvement in the community, family and at school. The Good Behaviour Game : httn://www.knowledge.offordcentre.com/index.php?ontion=com content view=article id=214:the-good- behavior-game-a-whole-classroom-apnroach-to-preventing-behaviour-problems catid=49:add-and- adhd Itemid=29 Page 10 of 51 11 Professor Toumbourou discussed The Good Behaviour Game , a team-based classroom behaviour management tool for both primary and secondary schools. This is currently implemented in Texas, USA. It is a management strategy designed to improve aggressive/disruptive classroom behaviour and prevent later criminality. The Good Behaviour Game promotes self-control, on-task learning and behaviours, focused attention, academic engagement and positive social relationships Seattle Social Development Project: http://www,ssdp-tip.org/ Another program Professor Toumbourou discussed was the Seattle Social Development Project. This program incorporates social control and social learning theories into early child development to increase social bonding, strengthen attachment and commitment to schools, and decrease delinquency. The success of the program lies in its combination of parent and teacher training. The program has been shown to produce better outcomes compared to control students in a range of areas (including family management practices, communication, aggression and antisocial behaviours). Early Childhood Development Data Professor Toumbourou discussed the need for the collection and evaluation of data to ensure children are performing at school. The AEDI The AEDI is a collection of data from every child enrolled in a pre-primary program within Australia. AEDI is measured through five areas of early childhood development: - physical health and wellbeing; - social competence; - emotional maturity; language and cognitive skills; and - communication and general knowledge. AEDI provides a national picture of early child health and development. Professor Toumbourou suggested that the Australian Education Development Index (AEDI) could be better used by teachers when children enter the school system. In addition, he felt Page 11 of 51 12 that additional data could be collected, analysed and used to assist children aged 10 and older. Such data could be obtained through high school children s self-reporting about home life, community and school attendance. The data could include information regarding the environment in which students live and their perceptions of student teacher relationships. Page 12 of 51 13 MEETINGS OF 4 May 2011 Meeting with Anne Colahan Dr Colahan is: Manager, Maternal and Child Health, Department of Education and Early Childhood Development. During our meeting, Ms Colahan discussed: History of Victoria s Department of Education and Early Childhood Development Provision of Early Childhood Services in Victoria compared to Western Australia Maternal and Child Health in Victoria Influential International Experts The Victorian Child and Adolescent Outcomes Framework History of Victoria s Department of aincatlon and Early Childhood Development In December 2007, the Victoria government (led by then Premier John Brumby) committed to investing $38.6 million in early childhood capital services, leading to significant developments in early childhood and education. One of the Brumby Government s reforms was the creation of a new Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (DEECD). Prior to the creation of the DEECD, Victoria s Office for Children was part of the Department of Human Services. The Department of Human Services was established in Victoria in 1995-96. Page 13 of 51 14 Prior to the establishment of the Department of Human Services, early childhood agencies within Victoria were encompassed within the Department of Community Services and Kindergarten services. Maternal and Child Health and Child Disability were encompassed within the Health Department. The aim of the reforms were to give Victorian children a better start to life with the creation of a new super department to integrate children s and education services across the State. The Brumby Government held a strong view that linking childhood services and schools together would assist in providing assistance as early as possible, before problems escalated. The Brumby Government wanted to provide a one-stop shop for children s services. Upon announcing the new department, Premier Brumby said, "Linking early childhood services and school education recognises that children s development is a continuous process from birth to adulthood, and government services must reflect this to provide each child with the best opportunity"! The new structure was to allow for the tracking of a child s development through their early years to ensure they started school when they were ready and allow early intervention when learning difficulties were detected. The initiative was supported by strong evidence that children s developmental and educational outcomes improve when there is a stronger focus on early childhood. Early Childhood Services in Western Australia In Western Australia, the responsibility for delivery of early childhood services is currently shared between three Ministers: The Minister for Health; - The Minister for Education; and The Minister for Child Protection and Community Services. The Office of Early Childhood and Learning was established in 2009. It has responsibility for early childhood policy and operational support. Mr David Ansell is the Acting Executive Page 14 of 51 15 Director for the Office of Early Childhood Development and Learning, which is part of the Department of Education. Currently in Western Australia, the Office of Early Childhood Development and Learning have set a number of priorities for the next five years. These include: closing the gap for Aboriginal children; better coordinating Kindergarten and Pre-primary programs with childcare services; and working closely with parents to help with early learning in the home and the transition to school. There is unequivocal evidence that government policy and intervention in the early years can make a difference. In 2009 the Liberal Government were made aware that Western Australia has insufficient community child health nurses (105 FTE) school nurses (135 FTE) and professionals employed in child development services (126 FTE). The Western Australian Government have started to increase the FTE positions in child development services but despite a population boom there has been no increase in school and community / child health nurses. It was recently reported that over the last decade there has been a 22% increase in the number of toddlers in Western Australia. In addition the number of children and young people is anticipated to increase by 64% over the next 45 years. To ensure that Western Australian children get the best possible start in life, experts such as Professor Fiona Stanley, the Commissioner for Children and Young People and Clinical Professor Trevor Parry have proposed an Office for Early Childhood with a dedicated Minister. Page 15 of 51 16 Comparison of the provision of early childhood services in Victoria and WA (Some of these services in Each State overlap between multiple departments) VICTORIA 2011 WESTERN AUSTRALIA 2011 Education and Early Human Health Health Education Child protection Childhood Services Development Neonatal Neonatal care care Child Child protection protection Maternity Maternal and care and child health services Office of Early Childhood Early childhood Development and Learning Immunisation Immunisation Children at Parenting — At risk Risk Children Early Parenting Services Child and Integrated dolescentAdolescent Community services Health Family and Family domestic violence services counselling Public Health Public Health At school At school Housing Hospitals Hospitals Vocational Beyond school Education Office for Women's Policy Page 16 of 51 17 Victoria s Maternal and Child Health In Victoria, local governments play a more active role in maternal and child health services. State and local governments share the management and delivery of services including kindergartens, Best Start, Early Intervention Services, Child Care, Capital Infrastructure and the employment of child health and school nurses. Victoria s Maternal and Child Health nurses work with disadvantaged families including families affected by drugs, depression, homelessness, unsupported mothers and intellectual disabilities. Within Victoria, the Maternal and Child Health Service program provides general support for all families with newborn babies and additional enhanced support for disadvantaged families. The enhanced support includes more visits to ensure families in need are supported earlier. The Maternal and Child Health Services program works within the Key Ages and Stages Framework. The framework includes monitoring both family and maternal health and wellbeing, development assessment (including Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status or PEDS), hearing risk factors, vision, oral health and infant sleeping. A three-year evaluation of the Key Ages and Stages Framework is currently in progress. PEDS is a method of detecting developmental and behavioural problems in children from birth to eight years of age. In Victoria, PEDS is used by school health nurses to assist children in need. In Western Australia, the PEDS survey is meant to be offered by community health nurses to all parents and caregivers of children at the 3-4 months, 8 months, 18 months and three- year-old child health assessments, and again at school entry (4 to 6 year olds). With a lack of community health nurses in Western Australia, it is uncertain how many children at each of these stages (3-4 months, 8 months, 18 months and three years old) are offered the PEDS survey. As such problems may not be identified as early as they should be. In addition it is uncertain who uses the school entry PEDS in WA to address the developmental and behavioural problems identified at school entry. Page 17 of 51 18 Influential International Experts Ms Colahan discussed a number of international experts who have been influential in the development of early childhood in Victoria. Dr Charles Pascal He is one of Canada s leading experts in early childhood education. Dr Pascal has held numerous roles in government including: Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Community and Social Services; Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Education and Training; and - Served on numerous community advisory boards and committees relating to the education of disadvantaged and special-needs children. Dr Pascal has published extensively in education and psychology, including his 2009 report With Our Best Future in Mind. The aforementioned Australian Education Development Index (AEDI) is based on Dr Pascal s work. The AEDI helps to identify in schools, areas where children are not developing according to established standards. Dr Jack Shonkoff Dr Jack Shonkoff is: - A Professor of Child Health and Development at the Harvard School of Public Health and Harvard Graduate School of Education; Founding Director of the Centre on the Developing Child at Harvard University; Chairs of the National Scientific Council on the Developing Child; Former Chair of the Committee on Integrating the Science of Early Childhood Development for the Institute of Medicine; Former Chair of the National Research Council and The Board on Children, Youth, and Families; Former member of several public interest advisory boards, including o The MacArthur Research Network on Early Experience and Brain Development; o The Governing Council of the Society for Research in Child Development; and o The Executive Committee of the Section on Developmental and Behavioural Paediatrics of the American Academy of Paediatrics. Page 18 of 51 19 He has authored more than 130 publications, including nine books; co-edited two editions of the Handbook of Early Childhood Intervention; and served on the editorial board of several scholarly journals, including Child Development. In 2006, Dr Shonkoff came to Victoria as the Creswick Foundation Visiting Professor in Early Childhood. Dr Shonkoff made a presentation at the Early Childhood Forum on 3 March 2006 in Melbourne, one of the largest early childhood forums ever held with 1200 people in attendance. Dr Shonkoff s presentation discussed the science underlying early childhood and the collaboration between different disciplines including neuroscience, developmental psychology and economics. Traditionally research was conducted within each discipline individually, but communication between these disciplines has found that the science emerging from these different disciplines leads to the same conclusions. Dr Shonkoff discussed the importance of brain development in early childhood, with everything learnt subsequently being based on the lower neural circuits that process basic information. He explained it is difficult for the brain to determine what to do with problems that are more complex, if it does not have the basic skills to begin with. Dr Shonkoff discussed the impact of stress in disrupting brain development and how strong and prolonged stress, which can be caused by abuse, neglect and violence, disrupts early brain development. Dr Shonkoff discussed how disruptions to early brain development have been shown to lead to both physical and mental illnesses later in life including depression and substance abuse. Dr Shonkoff highlighted the importance of emotional development in addition to cognitive development as part of early brain development. He talked about the Perry Preschool Project, discussed later in this report, and the findings of long-term benefits from early childhood intervention. Dr Shonkoff s influence was a key factor leading to the Victorian government s realisation that more money needed to be invested in early childhood. Page 19 of 51 20 Dr Frances Page Glascoe Dr Glascoe is: - Adjunct Professor of Paediatrics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville Tennessee, USA. Dr Glascoe s research expertise includes developmental screening and early detection of developmental and behavioural problems. Dr Glascoe is the author of several screening tests including PEDS, the Brigance Infant and Toddler Screens and the Safety Word Inventory and Literacy Screener. Page 20 of 51 21 The Victorian Child and Adolescent Outcomes Framework Vulnerable children are identified in Victoria as those who receive poor outcomes based on the 35 outcomes of Victoria s Child and Adolescent Monitoring System. To develop these 35 outcomes, the Victorian Government undertook an extensive review of the evidence on factors known to make a difference to children and young people. This led to the identification of 35 measurable indicators, known as outcomes, of children s health and wellbeing as shown below. Page 21 of 51 22 Meeting with Mr Paul Linossier, Mr Andrew Abbott and Mr Don Siemon Mr Linossier is the Acting Deputy Secretary (this is equivalent to Acting Director General Portfolio Coordination. Mr Andrew Abbott is the General Manager of the Strategy and Coordination Division of the Office for Planning, Strategy and Coordination. Mr Don Siemon is a Manager in the Strategy and Coordination Division of the Office for Planning, Strategy and Coordination. At this meeting, we discussed: Organisational Structure International Studies Australian National Agreements and Strategies International Reports International Experts Organisational Structure Below is a diagram of the organisation structure of the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development as at 30 June 2010. Highlighted are Mr Paul Linossier and Mr Andrew Abbott. Page 22 of 51 Lion 30 june 2010 Mjr ft0iiLdrenarda ncl erfer Early Cn biboocl DeveZepfnent emor Paten:VE 1as Secetar? Rosawarrta Barren. Fraser ?E.111.71crsaler isWarLisw DepJty RC DuL".1:y EIJCZ;:7:r. 11C ,71.:VZ:iC: !lka.,..tuctL ,! Sara Gchsr tan 3.urraze Dina Guest Gail Bart rrJ M GerefaLM aTlagE.r PFciecta CItitfl 7.7 VC Mr .7.n ]:er tan Cdr_ Colin TeASS2 E Irryln;1 htia-on Ertiaute Gene aL tA;.71::.- Mk:Tee:Mahar Ganef:. •.71,-z; %13":".. :orraf Join Allman in-T.C.RviiUtott nto So ftbaa Tony BLalen, Cra .,•::: Gemn:. ,15 Ir .::: 31%1 madetaina Binh MufflE kt-iLthehwfa-Tner :".uc y Rath Ma..i.nBroaClent Garei aPO 7.-1:7jw 21% yiLTa Carat Kelly ran:ea Kelly Bee Oristrinnefs Cal naBritthfoni %Inn Ger, 011c2±. Str_lent nternannal 1r 5tek len Brawn MICIELE feariete NE1--;zrdca 71PC 7.1Cy 7: 71C c.7V■ia-7: Gee Diarme Peck Ew511e.:on Ge.dFeln Masan Peter Stewart .111 A :1•2.7..:-; -.1W....aning Yoni Juli eAllraLegi Mary ClarYn • c Wayne r2. ED: : :7AL 7 11 ?i22iCr Janet 1Thc-nne-D n Rat. 517, 7.■ .1 Kat-wire :tiender. son Yo•!1E.-.!:!n exo Lake Page 23 of 51 24 The Children s Services Co-ordination Board and the Victorian Children s Council were established under the Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005(VIC). The Victorian Children s Council provides expert policy advice to the Premier and the Minister for Children relating to the policies and services that enhance the health, wellbeing, development and safety of children. The Council is made up of recognised experts in children s policies and services that underpin and can improve child safety, health, development, learning and wellbeing across Victoria. The Council assists the Office for Children to engage with key stakeholders at a statewide level. International Studies Dr James Dr Heckman is an American economist and recipient of the 2000 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences. He has been involved in developing compelling economic models and arguments for investing in early childhood learning. Dr Heckman was one of the reviewers of the Perry Preschool Study. Perry Pre-school Study http://highscope.org/Content.asp?ContentId=282 This study followed 123 individuals born in low socio-economic circumstances over four decades, from 1962 – 1967 when the individuals at ages 3 and 4 were divided into two groups: - one receiving a high-quality pre-school program for two years; and - the other receiving no comparable pre-school program. Both study participant groups were later interviewed (97%) at age 40. The study found that those who had undertaken the preschool program had: - higher income; Page 24 of 51 25 were more likely to hold a job; had committed fewer crimes; and were more likely to have graduated from high school. The study documented a return to society of more than $16 for every tax dollar invested in the early care and education program." In reviewing the study, Dr Heckman said, "This report substantially bolsters the case for early interventions in disadvantaged populations. More than 35 years after they received an enriched preschool program, the Perry Preschool participants achieve much greater success in social and economic life than their counterparts who are randomly denied treatment." Effective Provisio:), c e-School Education project (EPPE) http://eppe.ioe.ac.uk/ EPPE was a study conducted in the United Kingdom and was the first major European longitudinal study of a national sample of young children s development between the ages of 3 and 7 years. During 1997 — 2004, a wide range of information was collected on more than 3000 children, their parents, their home environments and the preschool settings they attended. Australian National Agreements and Strategies The Productivity Commission provides an annual report on the equity, efficiency and cost effectiveness of government services. This report enables ongoing comparisons of the performance of government services and facilitates the development of national performance indicators. Performance information is provided to the COAG Reform Council (CRC) to enable reporting under National Agreements. The performance of all governments in achieving the outcomes and benchmarks specified in each national agreement are monitored and assessed by the CRC. Page 25 of 51 26 Investing in the Early Years – A National Early Childhood Development Strategy This was a 2009 initiative of the Council of Australian Governments (COAG). The strategy was based on an outcomes framework for early childhood development. The goal being to improve the quality of early childhood education, care and health services to children and their families. Outcomes include: - children being born and remaining healthy; - children s environments being nurturing, culturally appropriate and safe; children having the knowledge and skills for life and learning; children benefitting from better social inclusion and reducing disadvantage; - children being engaged in and benefitting from educational opportunities; and - quality early childhood development services that support the workforce participation choices of families. The strategy initiatives include: 1. A National Partnership Agreement on Early Childhood Education; 2. A National Partnership Agreement on Closing the Gap in Indigenous Health Outcomes; and 3. A National Workforce Strategy to provide four-year university trained early childhood teachers in schools and childcare. 1. The 2008 National Partnership Agreement on Early Childhood Education was part of six new National Agreements, including the National Education Agreement. In the National Partnership Agreement on Early Childhood Education, a commitment was made to ensure every child has access to a quality early childhood education program (commonly referred to as pre-school or kindergarten ) for 15 hours a week, 40 weeks a year, in the year prior to formal schooling, with this commitment to be implemented by 2013. 2. The National Partnership Agreement on Closing the Gap in Indigenous Health Outcomes was established to address targets set by COAG for closing the gap in health outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. This agreement featured six targets for closing the gap between Indigenous and non- Page 26 of 51 27 Indigenous Australians across urban, rural and remote areas, one of which was to ensure all Indigenous four years olds in remote communities have access to early childhood education within five years. 3. Victoria launched an Early Childhood Workforce Strategy in 2009, supporting the development of a workforce that can respond to current changes in early childhood, particularly universal access to early childhood education. The Victorian focus of child protection and child welfare is to make timely decisions , whether that decision involves removing a vulnerable child from a harmful environment, returning the child back to their environment when the problems have been resolved or returning the child to an alternative setting. There is a Bilateral Agreement on Achieving Universal Access to Early Childhood Education between the Commonwealth Government and the Western Australian Government (Department of Education). In Western Australia, the Office of Early Childhood and Development and Learning within the Department of Education provides early childhood services. The Office plays a primary role in the negotiation and implementation of national partnerships. o In Western Australia, The Department for Communities is responsible for regulating and supporting childcare services. o Kindergarten occurs only in school settings, regulated by the Department of Education. Page 27 of 51 28 International Reports The UNICEF Innocenti Research Centre in Italy was established in 1988 to undertake research and support advocacy for children worldwide. In 2008, the Centre published a report titled Early Childhood Services in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Countries: Review of the Literature and Current Policy in the Early Childhood Field. John Bennett who is a Researcher for the OECD Starting Strong Network compiled the report. The primary purpose of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is to promote policies that will improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world. The 2006 OECD report Starting Strong II found that Australia spent less than any other developed country on preschool and found Australian kindergarten teachers to be the worst paid and least trained in the 20 participating countries. The report identified the very low levels of investment in quality early childhood services in Australia. " Australian and Interna ia- 7i Experts Dr Joseph Sparling Dr Joseph Sparling is: - A Fellow at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute of the University of North Carolina; - A Research Professor at Georgetown University; - An early childhood educator, former teacher and principal; and An advocate for an evidence-based approach to improving early childhood learning environments (the abecedarian approach). http://www.teachingstrategies.com/page/FC_Abecedarian-Studies.cfm Page 28 of 51 29 In mid-2010, Dr Sparling was an academic visitor for two months at the University of Melbourne where he conducted research into the potential implementation of the abecedarian approach in Australia. His visit and research raised interest regarding the applicability of the abecedarian approach to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families. The abecedarian approach is comprised of teaching and learning strategies including learning games, conversation/reading, language priority and enriched caregiving. Similar to the Perry Pre-school Project, the abecedarian studies looked at the potential benefits of early childhood education for socio-economically disadvantaged children. Individuals born between 1972 and 1977 were assigned to a control group or an educational intervention group receiving high-quality education in a childcare setting from infancy through to age five. The progress of the individuals was monitored over time and the findings demonstrated that important, long-lasting benefits were associated with the early childhood program. Professor Con eLte Tayler Professor Tayler is Chair of Early Childhood and Education and Care in the Melbourne Graduate School of Education, University of Melbourne. Professor Tayler leads the academic direction of the Master of Teaching Early Childhood program, including the establishment and tracking of integrated Early Childhood Services networks to enable team professional learning, which operate in partnership with Local Government Authorities. The teams include teaching fellows, clinical specialists, early childhood pedagogues and teacher candidates and have the primary focus of building and sustaining program effectiveness in diverse early childhood settings, using the evidence gathered to improve child and family outcomes and grow the expertise of professionals. Professor Tayler s research background includes conducting local and cross-national studies on the impact of social, family and educational policies and practices on early childhood education and care outcomes. Page 29 of 51 30 MEETINGS OF 5 May 2011 Meeting with Dr Suzanne Hood Dr Susanne Hood is : Principal Policy Adviser, Child Family Data, Outcomes and Evaluation Division, Office for Children and Portfolio Coordination, Department of Education and Early Childhood Development During our meeting Dr Hood discussed: The State of Victoria s Children Report The Victorian Child and Adolescent Monitoring System The State of Victoria s Children Dr Hood authored The State of Victoria s Children reports in 2008 and 2009. The reports are based on the aforementioned Victorian Child and Adolescent Outcomes Framework, focusing on children s health, learning, development, wellbeing and safety. The 2008 report was on all children and young people in Victoria aged 0 to 17 years against 140 indicators relating to the outcomes framework. The 2009 report was on Aboriginal children and young people in Victoria, aged 0 to 17 years, against the outcomes framework and issues of particular importance to Aboriginal children. The State of Victoria s Children reports meet the reporting requirements of the Children Services Coordination Board under the Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005 (VIC). The report highlights progress towards Future Directions, policy, and goals and provides an important resource to guide planning for young people, within and outside government. The Victorian Child and Adolescent Monitorin System Page 30 of 51 31 The annual State of Victoria s Children report forms part of the Victorian Child and Adolescent Monitoring System (VCAMS). VCAMS: provides an overview of the way in which the service system, the community and the family interact to determine the wellbeing of children; provides an objective and comprehensive evidence base to inform effective program development; - assists in planning and policy decisions to direct the priority and allocation of resources; and ensures children are given high priority across government policies, programs and activities to safeguard and improve their safety, health, development, learning and wellbeing. Page 31 of 51 32 Meeting with Dr Jenny Proimos Dr Proimos is: Principal Medical Advisor/Project Assistant at the Child and Adolescent Health and Wellbeing Division, Office for Children Portfolio Co-ordination, Department of Education Early Childhood Development; - A Paediatrician at the Royal Children s Hospital Centre for Adolescent Health; - President of the Paediatrics and Child Health Division; A Board Member of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians; A senior medical advisor for the Victorian Department of Education and Early Childhood Development; and - A Board Member of the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA). During our meeting, Dr Proimos discussed: Several key Victorian organisations; Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder; and - The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare and Children s Headline Indicators. Organisations The Foundation for Young Australians (FYA): http://vvww.fya.org.au/ A national, independent, non-profit organization that advocates for change on issues relevant to young people. The FYA delivers programs designed to inspire and improve educational outcomes and empower young Australians to be successful learners and confident, active and valued citizens. FYA has invested more than $30 million into youth and education sectors over the past twenty years in partnership with the private sector, government and not-for-profit organisations. Page 32 of 51 33 Dr Proimos said that FYA was just one of a large number of non-profit organizations and philanthropic endeavors that exist in Victoria to assist with early childhood and child health issues. Noah s Ark: http://www.noahsarkinc.org.au/ A not-for-profit statewide organization assisting children with additional needs and their families. It is Victoria s largest Early Childhood Intervention and Inclusion Support Agency providing training and support to a range of children service providers within Victoria and interstate. Each year Noah s Ark supports over 1000 children with a disability or developmental delay and their families. Very S ec Kids: http://www.vsk.org.au/ This organisation supports families during their experience of caring for children with life- threatening illnesses. Very Special Kids currently supports more than 750 families across Victoria. Berr Street:y http://www.berrystreet.org.au/ This organisation supports children, young people and families with issues arising from experiences of abuse, neglect or violence. STREAT: http://streat.com.au/ An organisation assisting Victoria s young adults aged 12-24 living on the streets each night. STREAT provides these young people with a pathway from homelessness to secure employment within the foodservice industry. Comparatively, Western Australia has fewer State and not for profit organisations established to provide funding and support to children. The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation, is the official fundraising body for the Princess Margaret Hospital. Most organizations assisting children in Western Australia are National organisations. Perhaps there is a need for greater philanthropic development in Western Australia and the establishment of more local not for profit organisations to assist Western Australian children. Page 33 of 51 34 Foetal A! cc zo1 Spectru Disorders Dr Elizat e t 11 EMott is: Professor of Paediatrics and Child Health at the University of Sydney; Consultant Paediatrician at the Children s Hospital at Westmead in Sydney; - Honorary Professorial Fellow at The George Institute; A National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia Practitioner Fellow; Founder and Director of the Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, a national research resource with a focus on rare diseases of childhood; - Director of the Centre for Evidence Based Paediatrics, Gastroenterology and Nutrition in Sydney; and - Head of a clinical education program in Maternal and Child Health for health professionals in Dien Bien Province, Vietnam. Dr Elliott has a longstanding interest in Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). She was: A Member of the National Health and Medical Research Council committee to produce the Australian Alcohol Guidelines (2009); - A Member of The Royal Australasian College of Physicians Alcohol Policy group; - Deputy Chair of the Intergovernmental Committee on Drugs Working Party on FASD; and - A member of the Expert Committee for the Fourth International FASD Conference. Dr Elliot is Chief Investigator for a collaboration to develop national diagnostic and screening tools for FASD. Dr Elliot was made a Member of the Order of Australia in June 2008 for service to paediatrics and child health. Dr Elliott forms part of the team executing the Fitzroy Valley community strategy `Overcoming FASD and Early Life Trauma in the Fitzroy Valley . This team is conducting Australia s first ever prevalence study of FASD, the Lililwan Project Meaning "all the little ones". Page 34 of 51 35 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare and Children s Headline Indicators The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) is Australia s national agency for health and welfare statistics and information. The AIHW is contracted to report and undertake data development on 19 Children s Headline Indicators. These Headline Indicators were agreed on in 2005 and are designed to focus government policy attention on priority issues for children 0-12. This is achieved through comparing data between states and territories and data from sub-populations of children including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, children living in disadvantage, children with a disability and children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. The Headline Indicators project was undertaken by the Statewide Outcomes Branch, Office for Children, Department of Human Services Victoria, as one of four projects within the Child Health and Wellbeing Reform Initiative. A strategic project steering group of experts was established to direct the project. The project culminated with the development of a National Headline Indicators for Children s Health, Development and Wellbeing report. The report was published in 2006 and outlined the process to be taken to develop the Headline Indicators. Page 35 of 51 36 Early Childhood Development: International and Australia 1962 1967 Perry Preschool Study commenced 1969 First study on The Good Behaviour Game published 1972 1977 Abecedarian study 1981 - Seattle Social Development Project commenced 1983 - Australian Temperament Project commenced 1992 Professors J David Hawkins and Richard Catalano, University of Washington, developed the Communities that Care program 1994 - Victorian Early Childhood within the Department of Community Services Victorian Kindergarten, Maternal and Child Health and Child Disability within Department of Health 1995 1996 Victorian Department of Human Services established - Victoria s Office for Children within the Department for Human Services 1997 2004 - Effective Provision of Pre-school Education project in the United Kingdom 1998 - Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) developed by Dr Frances Page Glascoe 2004 2005 - Australian Early Development Index piloted in Australia for the first time 2005 Page 36 of 51 37 Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005 (VIC) Victorian Children s Council and Children s Services Coordination Board established Victorian Government endorsed 35 outcomes for Victoria s children known to be of most importance to their present and future lives (Victorian Child and Adolescent Outcomes Framework) 2006 Dr Shonkoff came to Victoria as the Creswick Foundation Visiting Professor in Early Childhood Inaugural The state of Victoria s children report published - National Headline Indicators for Children s Health, Development and Wellbeing Report Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development Starting Strong II Report 2007 - Victorian government committed to investing $38.6 million in early childhood and education - Victorian Department of Education and Early Childhood Development established 2008 Six new national COAG agreements including with National Education Agreement, containing the National Partnership Agreement on Early Childhood Education - UNICEF Innocenti Research Centre Early Childhood Services In the OECD Countries: Review of the Literature and Current Policy in the Early Childhood Field Report 2009 - Western Australian Office for Early Childhood Development and Learning established COAG national Early Childhood Development Strategy: Investing in the Early Years - Australian Early Development Index completed nationwide for the first time - Victoria revised Maternal and Child Health Key Ages and Stages Framework Victorian Early Childhood Workforce Strategy 2010 - Dr Joseph Sparling visited Melbourne University regarding the abecedarian approach Page 37 of 51 38 MATERNAL, COMMUNITY, CHILD HEALTH AND SCHOOL HEALTH NURSES IN AUSTRALIA In 2009 the Liberal Government were made aware through an EHSC Report that Western Australia has insufficient community child health nurses (105 FTE) school nurses (135 FTE) and professionals employed in child development services (126 FTE). The government have started to increase the FTE positions in child development services but despite a population boom there has been no increase in school and community / child health nurses. This situation can be contrasted to that of other states as follows; VICTORIA In Victoria, local governments play a more active role in maternal and child health services. State and local governments share the management and delivery of services including kindergartens, Best Start, Early Intervention Services, Child Care, Capital Infrastructure and the employment of child health and school nurses. Cost : Services offered by the Victorian Maternal and Child Health (VMCH) are free and delivered to families in every local government area. Victorian Maternal and Child Health (VMCH) Availability : The service is available for all families with children from birth to school-age and is provided through to 10 key ages and stages (KAS) consultations. There is an emphasis on supporting disadvantaged families including families affected by drugs, depression, homelessness, unsupported mothers and children with intellectual disabilities. Services Offered : The VMCH program provides general support for all families with newborn babies and additional enhanced support for disadvantaged families. The enhanced support includes more visits to ensure families in need are supported earlier. Page 38 of 51 39 The service places emphasis on developmental assessment, early identification, appropriate referral, health promotion and parenting social support. It works to the Key Ages and Stages Framework which includes monitoring both family and maternal health and wellbeing, development assessment (including Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status), hearing risk factors, vision, oral health and infant sleeping. (Note that a three-year evaluation of the Key Ages and Stages Framework is currently in progress). Parents Eval ?lion of Developmental Status (PEDS) The Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) is a method of detecting developmental and behavioural problems in children from birth to eight years of age. It is used by school health nurses to assist children in need by offering parents: a schedule of 10 Key Ages and Stages (KAS) consultations including an initial home visit and office based consultations at 2,4 and 8 weeks , 4 months, 8 months , 12 months , 18 months, 2 years and 3.5 years; all nursing activities, interventions and health promotion messages are evidence based; additional consultations or activities may be available according to individual family needs and may include home visiting nurses who make referrals and link families to specialist services as appropriate ; parent education groups to provide health information and an opportunity to meet other parents in the local area, information, support and advice regarding parenting, child health, development and learning, child behaviour, maternal health and wellbeing, child safely, immunisation, breastfeeding, nutrition , family planning. Nurse Qualifications : VMCH nurses are highly qualified early childhood professionals. Initial educational preparation is a general nursing qualification followed by a midwifery qualification. This foundation is the basis for specialised post graduate studies in child family and community nursing. Some VMCH nurses have extensive experience in general or community nursing over many years prior to entering VMCH nursing. VMCH nurses are offered structured training to support the Key Ages and Stages Framework of age related consultations. This is in addition to numerous opportunities for continuing professional development. Page 39 of 51 40 Nurses The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development delivers the Primary School Nursing Program and the Secondary School Nursing Program. Nurses under this scheme are required to be a registered nurse. Post graduate qualifications in either and/or experience in child health, primary health care, community health, public health, or health promotion is considered highly desirable. The Primary School Nursing Program (PSNP) is a free service which is offered by the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development to all children attending primary schools and English Language Centre schools in Victoria. Primary school nurses visit schools throughout the year to provide children with the opportunity to have a health assessment; provide information and advice about healthy behaviours and link children and families to community based health and wellbeing services. The aim is to identify children with potential health related learning difficulties and to respond to parent/carer concerns and observations about their child s health and well being. Parent/carer(s) complete the School Entrant Health Questionnaire which is distributed during the first year of school with follow up health assessments conducted by the school nurse as indicated. The Secondary School Nursing Program (SSNP) aims to reduce risk to young people and promote better health in the wider community. Approximately two thirds of government secondary schools participate in the SSNP with the program targeted to Victoria s most disadvantaged schools. The goals of the SSNP are to: play a key role in reducing negative health outcomes and risk taking behaviours among young people, including drug and alcohol abuse, tobacco smoking, eating disorders, obesity, depression, suicide and injuries; focus on prevention of ill health and problem behaviours by ensuring coordination between the school and community based health and support services; support the school community in addressing contemporary health and social issues facing young people and their families; provide appropriate primary health care through professional clinical nursing, including assessment, care, referral and support; establish collaborative working relationships between primary and secondary school nurses to assist young people in their transition to secondary school. Page 40 of 51 41 Secondary School Nurses are employed through Regional Offices of the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (DEECD), with most nurses allocated to two secondary schools http://www.mchnursing.org.au/CA257168002B8682/pages/about?OpenDocument SOUTH AUSTRALIA Services are funded by the State government. A review of child health services in 1978 saw the amalgamation of the Mothers and Babies Health Association, the School Health Services and the Child, Adolescent and Family Psychiatric Services to form the Child, Adolescent Family Health Services (CAFHS) which provides a community based child health service to the families of South Australia with children aged 0-18 years. (In 1983, the psychiatric branch of CAFHS left the organisation to form the separate Child, Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). Cost : Child and Family Health Services provides free health checks for children at key developmental ages between birth and 6 years Free vaccines and immunisations are also available at specific health checks Availability : These checks are recommended by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia (NHMRC) and are offered at: 1-4 weeks (at the first home visit) 6 weeks 6-9 months 18 months 2 and a half years. Children can also be seen at any age when parents have concerns, questions or issues Services offered include Pre-school health checks where Child and Family Health nurses visit all kindergartens and pre-school centres across the state to provide vision, hearing, growth and developmental checks, providing opportunities for parents to discuss parenting or Page 41 of 51 42 health concerns. Teachers, nurses and parents work in partnership to assess children s needs before school entry. Immunisation services where Women s and Children s Health Network staff can provide information about immunisation through Child and Family Health centres, and via the Parent Helpline. Immunisation is offered as part of other child health services from many clinic sites. Free vaccines are available at specific health checks, in accordance with the National Immunisation Schedule. Medical assessment where a comprehensive developmental assessment and counselling is provided, and referral for infants and children who would benefit from early intervention. Medical assessment is available from most Child and Family Health centres. Children with concerns are referred by nurses to a medical officer. Child and Family Health Services offer a limited service for children referred for physiotherapy assessment. Family Home Visiting has been funded by the Government as part of the "Every Chance for Every Child" initiative and provides ongoing home visits and support to eligible families over a two year period. Under this initiative nurses are supported by a multidisciplinary team including social workers, psychologists, family support co-ordinators and Aboriginal health staff. (The FHV Service Outline (June 2005, CYWHS) provides a general guide to the philosophical basis, structure, eligibility criteria and content of the Family Home Visiting service). Assistance with parenting courses, breastfeeding help, breast care and baby feeding help. Advice offered in person or over the telephone Community Nurses additionally provide a comprehensive range of services including Palliative Care, Wound Care, Assessment, Diabetes, Respiratory Support, Cardiovascular Services, Continence and Mental Health Services. School Nurses South Australia does not generally employ school nurses in the public school system. Recent reform agendas have prioritised placing a school nurse in primary schools, but this has not yet occurred. South Australia has however invested extra money in community and child health in order to address children s needs in the years leading up to school. Page 42 of 51 43 Nurse Qualifications : Initial educational preparation is as a registered nurse. Most nurses then have specialised post graduate studies in child and family health nursing. http://www.cyh.com/SubContent.aspx?p=132 http..//www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+intem et/health+services/hospitals+ano +health+services/country/far+north/port+augusta +community+health/services NEW SOUTH WALES Funded and administered by the State government. Relevant Minister is the NSW Minister for Health. Cost : The child and family health nurses are provided as a free community health service offering health and developmental checks for children as well as support, education and information on all aspects of parenting. Availability : Early Childhood Health Centres offer initial home visit for the first appointment. Children s health and development checks are then available at birth, 1 to 4 weeks, 6 to 8 weeks, 6 to 8 months, 18 months, 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 years and 4 to 5 years However, there remains an emphasis on the role of the family doctor and privatised services in child health care. Services Offered Early childhood health centres provide the opportunity for regular appointments with a child health nurse, baby check-ups, parenting courses, breastfeeding help, baby feeding help, and other specialist services. Additional support is available over the telephone. Childhood immunisation clinics are available from some Community Health Centres and from Early Childhood Health Centres Community Nurses provide a comprehensive range of services including Palliative Care, Wound Care, Assessment, Case Management, Diabetes, Asthma, Page 43 of 51 44 Cardiovascular Services, Child and Family, School Health, Women s Health, Continence, Aboriginal Health, Audiometry Services and Health Promotion activities. School Nurses School nurses engage in clinical care, health counselling, health promotion, school community development activities, networking/resource and referral, and general clinic management. However, it is not government policy to employ school health nurses in public schools. Any employment of a school nurse is at the private arrangement of the school. As such, unless it is a school with students with additional requirement, school health nurses tend to be confined to the private sector schools. Nurse Qualifications : Staff are generally registered nurses or midwives. Most nurses have additionally specialised in Child and Family Health work. http://www,ncahs,nsw,gov.au/community-health/index.php?pageid=679 siteid=183 http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/nursing/indexasp QUEENSLAND Funded and administered by the State government, primarily the Minister for Health, although there is some local government involvement in terms of the community health centres. The school based services additionally collaborate with Education Queensland. Cost : The services are provided as a free community health service. The nurses generally work in collaboration with other health professionals to provide a program of free health and developmental checks for children as well as support and education. Availability : The Community Child Health Centres employ a range of disciplines including child health nurses. The prevention and early intervention services are available to parents/caregivers of children aged 0-12 years. There is opportunity for appointments at the centre and at home through self - referral. The School-Based Youth Health Nurses service is available to young people (and their parents/caregivers) aged 13-18 years who attend State Secondary Schools in Page 44 of 51 45 the specific Children s Health Services catchment area. They can self refer or referral can be made by a health professional. Immunisation Clinics are available at select Community Child Health Centres without referral. An additional long-overdue vaccination catch-up service (referrals for children more than three months overdue for vaccinations) is also offered. There are additional child health services that are offered and available for refugees and for indigenous population Services Offered The Early Child Health service provides prevention and early intervention services for parents/caregivers of children aged 0-12 years through its Community Child Health Centres. These Centres are staffed by a multidisciplinary health team and all aspects of child health and parenting support are provided including: Health surveillance and screening; Growth and development assessment; Hearing assessment and referral; Behavioural expectations; Breastfeeding and Infant feeding clinics; Information on nutritional requirements - healthy eating and physical activity; Parents discussion groups; Triple P (Positive Parenting Programs); Immunisation Clinic and Long-overdue vaccination catch-up service. The majority of clinics additionally provide : Self Weigh facilities; Early Feeding Support Clinics for the first two weeks after hospital discharge and ongoing Infant Feeding Support Programs for infants under 6 months with feeding concerns. These are generally run as drop in clinics with no appointment required; Twenty four hour telephone Information and Support service. Page 45 of 51 46 School Nurses Queensland Health funds a School-Based Youth Health Nurse program in Queensland state schools. There is no such program available in Primary Schools. From the beginning of 2005 the program was enhanced so that all secondary students in Queensland now have access to a School Based Youth Health Nurse, including students enrolled in Schools of Distance Education. There are 115 FTE positions in the program. The nurse is often the first point of contact for young people, their families and school community members seeking information, advice and support in health matters. For issues requiring treatment or intensive counselling, they play an important role in providing referral for clients to the relevant agencies. School Based Youth Health Nurses do not provide or teach first aid, care for wounds or administer medications. The School Based Youth Health Nurse provides support and assistance for their schools to address the health needs of young people, their families and school community members with consideration to the local needs. The nurse also plays an important support role as a health adviser for student support services such as guidance officers, police and chaplains. These nurses work collaboratively within the school community by: providing support for the school curriculum, teaching and learning activities; supporting the planning, implementation and evaluation of health promotion activities; supporting the development of partnerships with relevant government and non-government agencies, and community members; supporting the development of a healthy school environment and ethos; providing advice and information about health education resources, including relevant Queensland health policies and programs, and facilitating health related teacher in-service; advocating on behalf of young people on issues affecting their health and wellbeing; providing individual health consultations for students, parents and members of the school community. Page 46 of 51 47 Specific duties of the nurses employed within the program are decided upon by negotiation and monitored by a local consultative team comprised of the principal/s or nominee, the nurse and the designated Health Service District line manager. Nurse Qualifications : Staff are generally registered nurses with additional specialty in Child and Family Health work http://www.health.q1d.gov.au/townsville/Community/Ohac chn comp skls.pdf http://www.health.qld.gov.au/cchs/defaultasp TASMANIA Funded and administered by the State government, primarily the Minister for Health Cost : The department of Health Child health centres and child and family health nurses offer their services free of charge Availability : Local Child and Family Health Nurses make available child health and development checks at the following recommended ages: 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 4 months, 8 months, 12 months, 18 months, 3 1/2 years. A free medical check is additionally offered at 6 weeks and a vision and hearing check in the Prep year of school. 12d Services There are approximately 80 Child Health Centres that provide support to families with children aged from birth to 5 years of age. Child Health Centres are staffed by child and family health nurses who offer parent information on many topics including: child health and development, practical parenting tips, nutrition, breastfeeding, sleep and settling, communication, play and safety, nutrition, oral health, post natal depression, fathering, balancing work and family life, play, injury prevention, SIDS and immunisation. They also provide a service of screening for women who feel they may have post natal depression and provide counselling and referral as necessary. Page 47 of 51 48 There are three additional Parenting Centres that offer more intensive support for families experiencing difficulties with children 0 to 5 years of age. These Parenting Centres are a day service and consultations with social workers, psychologists and child health nurses are available. The centres offer; Support with breastfeeding and any feeding related issues. Guidance and education for parents relating to their child s sleep problems, which may be affecting the child or parents. Support for mothers with post natal depression. Programmes are run which are designed to enhance infant/parent interaction and communication. General issues which relate to parenting, including step families and self esteem. Support for parents of toddlers with behaviour management issues and sibling rivalry. School Nurses There are currently no school nurses employed in the Tasmanian public school system. There are in fact only a couple of Tasmanian school nurses and they are employed by a private school. Nurse Qualifications : Initial educational preparation is as a registered nurse. Most nurses then have specialised post graduate studies in child and family health nursing http://www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/service information/services files/child health centres Following is a Table that represents an approximate Overview and Comparison of the Child Health Services that are available in each of the States of Australia Page 48 of 51 49 Table of Child Health Information for each State. Type of Nurse Victoria Maternal and child health nurses and Nursing qualification followed by midwifery qualification Qualifications Alternatively, post graduate studies in child family and community nursing New South Child and family health nurses Wales Nursing qualification followed by midwifery qualification Alternatively, post graduate studies in child family and community nursing Queensland Child health nurses Initial educational as a registered nurse Most nurses then have specialised post graduate studies in child and family health nursing South Child and family health nurses Australia Initial educational as a registered nurse Most nurses then have specialised post graduate studies in child and family health nursing Tasmania Child and family health nurses Initial educational as a registered nurse Most nurses then have specialised post graduate studies in child and family health nursing Western Community health nurses Australia Initial educational as a registered nurse Most nurses then have specialised post graduate studies in child and family health nursing Government Victoria State (Health Department) combined with local governments to share involvement management and delivery of services and employment of nurses New South Primarily State (Health Department and Education Department) with some Wales limited local government involvement Queensland State (Health Department) South State (Health Department) Australia Tasmania State (Health Department) Western State (Health Department) Australia Cost of service Victoria Child / Family Health Services provides free health checks for children at all key developmental ages between birth and 4 years Free vaccines and immunisations New South Child / Family Health Services provides free health checks for children at all Wales key developmental ages between birth and 6 years Queensland Child / Family Health Services provides free health checks for children at all key developmental ages between birth and 6 years Free vaccines and immunisations Free School based Youth Health Nurses South Child / Family Health Services provides free health checks for children at all Australia key developmental ages between birth and 4 years Free vaccines and immunisations Tasmania Child / Family Health Services provides free health checks for children at all key developmental ages between birth and 5 years Free vaccines and immunisations Free Parenting Centre access Western Child / Family Health Services provides free health checks for children at all Australia key developmental ages between birth and 4 years Availability of Victoria The service is available for all families with children from birth to school-age service and is provided through to 10 "Key Ages and Stages" (KAS) consultations Page 49 of 51 50 Additional enhanced support available for disadvantaged families, including families affected by drugs, depression and homelessness New South The service is available for all families with children from birth to school-age Wales and is provided through to 10 key ages and stages (KAS) consultations Ongoing opportunity for appointments with a child health nurse, and other specialist services at any age However, emphasis on the role of the family doctor and privatised services in child health care Queensland The Community Child Health Centres make available a range of disciplines including child health nurses with emphasis on intervention services Services are available to parents/caregivers of children aged 0-12 years The School-Based Youth Health Nurses service is available to young people (and their parents) aged 13-18 years who attend State Secondary Schools Immunisation Clinics and long-overdue vaccination catch-up service also offered There are additional child health services available for refugees and for indigenous children South The service is available for all families with children from birth to school-age Australia and is provided through to 10 key ages and stages (KAS) consultations Additional services available to enable children to be seen at any age when parents have concerns, questions or issues Tasmania Local Child and Family Health Nurses make available child health and development checks at the recommended ages: 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 4 months, 8 months, 12 months, 18 months, 3 1/2 years A free medical check is additionally offered at 6 weeks and a vision and hearing check in the Prep year of school Western Community Child Health Nurses provide assessment of children s health and Australia development at the recommended ages: 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 4 months, 8 months, 12 months, 18 months, 3 1/2 years Types of Victoria The program provides general support for all families with newborn babies Services and disadvantaged families (who receive more visits to ensure families in offered need are supported earlier) A schedule of 10 KAS consultations including an initial home visit and office based consultations at 2,4 and 8 weeks , 4 months, 8 months , 12 months , 18 months, 2 years and 3.5 years Emphasis on developmental assessment, early identification, referral, health promotion and parenting support Uses the Key Ages and Stages Framework which includes monitoring family and maternal health and wellbeing, development assessment (including Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status), hearing risk factors, vision, oral health and infant sleeping Additional consultations available according to individual family needs New South Early childhood health centres provide the opportunity for regular Wales appointments with a child health nurse, baby check-ups, parenting courses, breastfeeding help, baby feeding help, and other specialist services Additional support is available over the telephone Childhood immunisation clinics are available from some Community Health Centres and from Early Childhood Health Centres Other services include Asthma services, Child and Family, School Health, Audiometry Services and Health Promotion activities Queensland The service provides prevention and early intervention services for children aged 0-12 years through its Community Child Health Centres which are staffed by a multidisciplinary health team and all aspects of child health and parenting support are provided such as Health surveillance and screening, growth and development assessment, hearing assessment and behavioural expectations Page 50 of 51 51 Breastfeeding and Infant feeding clinics The majority of clinics additionally provide self weigh facilities, early feeding support for the first two weeks after hospital discharge and ongoing infant feeding support for infants under 6 months The School-Based Youth Health Nurses provide individual and group health consultations, education support and referrals for students aged 13-18 years who attend State Secondary Schools South Pre-school health checks where Child Health nurses visit all kindergartens and Australia pre-school centres across the state to provide vision, hearing, growth and developmental checks, providing opportunities for parents to discuss parenting or health concerns Medical assessment where a comprehensive developmental assessment and counselling is provided, and referral for infants and children who would benefit from early intervention Additional consultations or activities available according to individual family needs Tasmania There are approximately 80 Child Health Centres that provide support to families with children aged from birth to 5 years of age Services offered include parent information, child health and development, practical parenting tips, nutrition, breastfeeding, sleep and settling, communication, play and safety, nutrition, oral health, post natal depression, fathering, balancing work and family life, play, injury prevention, SIDS and immunisation They also provide a service of screening for women who feel they may have post natal depression and provide counselling and referral as necessary There are three additional Parenting Centres that offer more intensive support for families experiencing difficulties with children 0 to 5 years of age Western Child Health centres provide regular appointments and baby check-ups, Australia parenting courses, breastfeeding help, baby feeding help, childhood immunisation clinics and referral to specialist services Services available over the telephone Premier Brumby, New Focus on Early Childhood and Education for all Victorian Children , 2 August 2007. I HighScope, long-term Study of Adults Who Received High-Quality Early Childhood Care and Education Shows economic and Social Gains, Less Crime , November 2004. "I Ibid. " Early Childhood Australia, September 2006 – OECD report: Australia lowest in early childhood investment , 6 0 2006. Page 51 of 51 T n P MEMBER FOR DARLING RANGE 4)71 1177 4 February 2011 Director General Department of Premier Cabinet 197 St George s Tce PERTH WA 6000 Dear Peter I wish to access my imprest account to go to Tasmania for a Deaf Australia Inc conference from 13 — 15 May 2011. As the President of the WA Deaf Society, I would like the opportunity to attend this conference as it would be beneficial to me as the representative of this very worthwhile group. I have attached a copy of the conference details along with the flight costs. These flights are not booked or confirmed, but am happy to go ahead and book and pay for this once you have granted permission. There is a cost of $550 for the conference fee so can you please confirm with me whether I can claim this back as part of my imprest allowance. I look forward to hearing from you regarding these two queries. Yours sincerely 7 /,17 Ton /Simpson MLA MEMBER FOR DARLING RANGE Address: Shop 5, 837 South Western Hwy BYFORD WA 6122 Mail: PO Box 56 BYFORD WA 6122 Phone: 08 9525 4822 Fax: 08 9525 4866 Email: [email protected] Web: www.tonysimpson.com.au Deaf Australia Inc. 2 nd National Conference 25th Anniversary Celebration I attended the Deaf Australia Inc. National Conference that was held in Hobart from 13 – 15 May 2011. This was Deaf Australia s second National Conference and its 25th Anniversary Celebration. As the President of the Western Australian Deaf Society, I felt it very important that I attend this conference and I am extremely pleased that I attended as it was not only very educational, but was great to see how people with a disability can work together productively to achieve great things. I will be able to present my findings from this conference at the next board meeting that I will be attending and I know that they will be interested in my report from this conference. This conference celebrated the little things they started from and the big things they have achieved, but mostly it will focus on the bigger things they look to in the future. It will also celebrate 25 years of Deaf Australia. Deaf Australia is the only Australian peak body managed by deaf people representing deaf people and their communities. They work with Australian governments and collaborate with key stakeholders to ensure that Australia complies with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. There were a distinguished group of presenters and guest speakers, amongst them being the President of the World Federation of the Deaf, Mr Markku Jokinen who travelled to the conference from Finland. Mr Jokinen said "I want to work for a better future for all of us Deaf people. I believe that we must understand and keep up with the rapid pace of social and technological change in today s world to make sure that we will not become marginalised in tomorrow s world." Senator Jan McLucas, the Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers; David Gibson, MP from Queensland; and Robin Banks, Tasmanian Anti-Discrimination Commissioner were also there to address the conference. I was particularly impressed with Michael Jones from the Westpac Banking Corporation. Michael has been very interested in supporting deaf employees at Westpac. Michael is responsible for the creation and ongoing management of the company s in house interpreting service which supports its six deaf employees at its New South Wales processing site. Dr Robert Sparrow was very interesting to listen to as he is currently working at the Centre for Human Bioethics at Monash University dealing with culture, cochlear implants and genetic testing. Dr Sparrow teaches and researches on ethical issues raised by new technologies. His current focus is on the ethics of pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, human enhancement, and new reproductive technologies. Damian Lacey is the Chief Executive Officer of Deaf Children Australia and has been since 1995 and he has worked in the deaf sector for over 32 years, 25 of these years have been in the role of CEO. The cost for this Deaf Australia Inc. National Conference and 25 th Anniversary Celebration was $2433.98. PARLIAMENT OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY A. LISA BAKER " Member for Maylands 13 July 2011 Mr P Conran Director General Department of Premier and Cabinet 26tn Floor Governor Stirling Tower 197 St George s Tce PERTH WA 6000 (Attention: Mr L Birrell) Dear Sir, Impressed Travel Report In May 2011 I travelled to Brisbane, Queensland to attend the 2011 National Labor Women s Conference; Lead Challenge Inspire. The conference was held over the weekend of the 14 and 15 th of May 2011. I flew to Brisbane on Friday 13th and returned to Perth after the conference closed on the night of the 15th May. The conference venue was the Queensland Parliament House. In addition to the key note speakers there were 15 parallel sessions held covering topics such as Feminism for Generation Y, Climate Change, Women s Role in the Care Economy and Affirmative Action. I chose to attend Feminism for Generation Y, Labor Herstory, Do You Care? Women s Role in the Care Economy and Voices United, Labor Women s Choir and Women In Political Campaigns. A synopsis of these is provided below: Feminism for Gen Y 3 Gen Y women presented their views on ideology and political doctrine today. What do Gen Y women think of feminism today? Are Gen Y women beyond feminism? Is feminism still relevant to Gen Y and how can the ALP support and encourage young women? Labor Herstory As general discussion and presentation on some of the amazing women with courage and conviction who fought for rights. The discussion celebrated their pioneering spirit, reviewed how they fought these battles and revisited the best way to document their stories. 946 Beaufort Street, Inglewood 6052 (PO Box 907, Inglewood 6932) Phone: 9370 3550 Fax: 9272 4291 Email: [email protected] Do You Care? Womens role in the care economy Emily s list shared their latest Gender Gap Research — explored what we should be doing to support women in their increasing roles as carers in our society. Voices United this was a fun session, focused on team building and combining voices to share passion through song. Women in Political Campaigns Making sure that we are real when we are campaigning. Exploring how women are portrayed in election campaigns. Discussion from stakeholders about Labor advertising campaigns, difference between marketing a female and a male candidate, looking at new digital era of campaigning where Facebook and Twitter intersect with old style campaigns? Affirmative Action How is Affirmative Action working in achieving increased representation in women as politicians ad across the political spectrum. Has it impacted on our Australian Parliament? And looking beyond Parliament into the Board rooms of Australian Business to discuss what more we need to do to improve the representation of women in leadership. Thanking you, Yours sincerely LisaiBaker MLA MEMBER FOR MAYLANDS CD 11111 t • LaborWomen Lead Challe A Guide to Getting Around Brisbane nge Inspire and the Conference Venues From Brisbane Airport to the CBD By Airtrain Trains normally depart every 30 minutes. First train from the airport departs at 6:00am and the last train departs at 8:00pm. On weekdays, there are additional services into Brisbane City during peak periods. Please refer to www.airtrain.com.au for a full list of departure and arrival times. Conference delegates have been provided with discounted fares on return Airtrain tickets — please see accompanying letter. By Car or Taxi The Brisbane Airport is 15kms from the CBD — which is approximately 20 —30 mins driving time. A map of the Brisbane CBD and surrounds has been included in your delegate satchel Conference Venue — Queensland Parliament House Parliament House is located at the southern end of George Street, adjacent to the City Botanic Gardens. To enter the Parliamentary Annexe, continue along Alice Street — the Annexe is the newer high-rise building. Parliament House Parking is available near the entrance to QUT — under the freeway. Welcome Reception — The Ship Inn The Ship Inn is located on the southern end of the Southbank Parklands near the Maritime Museum. From the CBD, closest route is to walk over the Goodwill Bridge (located near Parliament House). The welcome reception will be held in the Upstairs function room. Picnic in the Park and Markets — City Botanic Gardens The City Botanic Gardens are located in Alice Street. The Royal Palm Lawn has been booked for the Conference Picnic and can be accessed on the entrance at the corner of Alice Edward Street. Official Conference Dinner — Kapsali Greek Restaurant Kapsali Greek Restaurant is located in the centre of the Southbank Parklands adjacent to "Streets Beach". From the CBD, walk over the Goodwill Bridge or the Victoria Bridge. Farewell Networking Drinks — The Victory Hotel The Victory Hotel is located at 127 Edward Street which is on the corner of Charlotte and Edward Streets, City. The drinks will be held in the Upstairs Bar area. 4 LaborWo L_-)n alie e Social and Networking Events nge Inspire Official Welcome Reception Welcome to Brisbane - event hosted by the Queensland Labor Women s Organisation. Guest Speakers are the Hon Karen Struthers MP, QLD Minister for Women and Councillor Shayne Sutton, Opposition Leader for Brisbane City Council Date: Friday 13 May 2011 Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm Venue: The Ship Inn Corner Stanley Sidon Streets Southbank Parklands Cost: Free – bookings essential via registration Picnic in the Park and Markets Join us for a Picnic in the Park, browse the market stalls and listen to the dulcet tones of the Combined Unions Choir. Date: Saturday 14 May 2011 Time: 12:15pm – 1:30pm Venue: Royal Palm Lawn – Area 5 City Botanic Gardens Corner Alice and Edward Streets, Brisbane Cost: Free – bookings essential via registration (In the event of wet weather, the market stalls will be set up in Parliament House) Official Conference Dinner It s time to relax and enjoy a fun evening of food, drink and perhaps even a little Greek dancing! Date: Saturday 14 May 2011 Time: 6:30pm for 7pm Venue: Kapsali Greek Restaurant Southbank Parklands Cost: $75.00 – includes three course dinner + drinks (bookings essential via registration) 5 Laporldomen Keynote Speakers Biographies Lead Chalie nge Inspire Hon Anna Bligh MP, Premier of Queensland and Minister for Reconstruction Anna Maria Bligh made history on 21 March 2009, when she became the first popularly elected female Premier in Australia. Prior to the election, she served as Queensland Premier from 13 September 2007, following the resignation of Peter Beattie. On 21 February 2011, Ms Bligh took on the role of Minister for Reconstruction to oversee the rebuilding Queensland in the wake of unprecedented natural disasters in late 2010 and early 2011. She became Deputy Premier of Queensland in July 2005 - the same month she celebrated 10 years as Member for South Brisbane. Ms Bligh was formerly Minister for Finance, State Development, Trade and Innovation. Prior to that, she was Queensland s first female Education Minister, spending almost 5 years overseeing the most significant reforms to the state s education system in decades. Prior to her election, Ms Bligh worked in community organisations, in the Queensland Public Service, and in employment, training and industrial relations policy. Hon Kate Ellis MP, Minister for Employment Participation & Childcare; Minister for the Status of Women Kate Ellis has held the seat of Adelaide since 2004, when she became the youngest woman to ever be elected to the Australian House of Representatives. She studied International Relations at Flinders University, where she was an active representative and President of the Students Association, as well as editor of the student newspaper. She grew up in the small Murray River town of Mannum in South Australia, and is a vocal advocate of the Save the Murray campaign. Prior to entering Federal Parliament, she worked as a Research Officer for State and then Federal parliamentarians, and has subsequently worked as a Ministerial Adviser for South Australian Minister Hon. Rory McEwen, and a Ministerial Advisor to the Deputy Premier Kevin Foley. She continues to be involved with a number of local community and sporting groups in Adelaide. 7 Dr Anne Summers — Author, Journalist and Australian Legend Dr Anne Summers is a best-selling author and columnist who has had a long career in politics and the media. Her political background includes her time as a political adviser to Prime Minister Paul Keating prior to the 1993 federal elections and she ran the Office of the Status of Women for Prime Minister Bob Hawke from 1983 to 1986. As a journalist she has been Editor of Good Weekend, and written for The Australian Financial Review, Far Eastern Economic Review, Le Monde, and The National Times. She is a winner of the Walkley Award for journalism. Her books include the now classic Australian book, Damned Whores and God s Police which is still in print, twenty six years after it was first published in 1975, Gamble for Power, an account of the 1983 federal elections, and Ducks on the Pond, the recently published first volume of her autobiography. In the United States, where she lived from 1986 to 1992, she was Editor in Chief of Ms. magazine and co-owner with Sandra Yates of Ms. and Sassy after raising $US20 million on Wall Street in only the second ever women-led management buyout in US corporate history. In 1989 Anne was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for her services to journalism and to women. Anne is also a Trustee of Sydney s Powerhouse Museum and was recently recognised as an "Australian Legend" with her image immortalised on an Australian stamp. Dr Cordelia Fine — Academic Psychologist and writer Dr Cordelia Fine has been described as "that rare academic who s also an excellent writer" (Library Journal), a "cognitive neuroscientist with a sharp sense of humour and an intelligent sense of reality" (The Times), "a brilliant feminist critic of the neurosciences" (Times HES), "a science writer to watch"(Metro) and a Myth Busting Hero (CARE). Cordelia s latest book, Delusions of Gender: How our minds, society, and neurosexism create difference is currently short-listed for the Best Book of Ideas Prize 2011, and was short-listed for the prestigious John Llewellyn Rhys Prize 2010. Cordelia writes regularly for the press, and wrote the introduction for the Britannica Guide to the Brain. Cordelia studied Experimental Psychology at Oxford University, followed by an M.Phil in Criminology at Cambridge University. She was awarded a Ph.D in Psychology from University College London. From 2002 to 2007 she was a Research Associate at Monash University, and then at the Australian National University. She is currently a Senior Research Associate at the Centre for Agency, Values Ethics at Macquarie University, and an Honorary Research Fellow at the Department of Psychological Sciences at the University of Melbourne. Cordelia lives in Melbourne, Australia. 8 LaborWomeli Final Conference Program Lead ChaiL, nge Inspire SATURDAY 14 MAY 2011 From 7:45am CONFERENCE REGISTRATION Level 3 Foyer NLW Conference Registration Centre Parliamentary Annexe Collect Lanyards and Delegate Satchels Alice Street, Brisbane Note: All delegates will need to clear security screening on arrival 8:30am CALL TO ORDER Undumbi Room Level 5 Charis Mullen Parliamentary Annexe Convenor— National Labor Women s Network WELCOME TO COUNTRY Undumbi Room Level 5 Avelina Tarrago Parliamentary Annexe Secretary - QLD Aboriginal People and Torres Strait Islander Reference Committee 8:45am OFFICIAL OPENING ADDRESS OF THE 2011 Undumbi Room NATIONAL LABOR WOMEN S CONFERENCE Level 5 Parliamentary Annexe Hon Anna Bligh MP Premier of Queensland and Minister for Reconstruction National President of the Australian Labor Party 9:15am THE MINISTER S ADDRESS Undumbi Room Level 5 Hon Kate Ellis MP Parliamentary Annexe Minister for Workplace Participation Childcare; Minister for the Status of Women 9:45am KEYNOTE ADDRESS Undumbi Room Level 5 Dr Anne Summers Parliamentary Annexe Best Selling Author, journalist and feminist 10:30am MORNING TEA Level 3 Colonnade Parliamentary Annexe 11:00am — PARALLEL SESSIONS 1 12:15pm Refer to information in the Conference Booklet 9 12:15pm – LUNCH EVENT - PICNIC IN THE PARK MARKETS Royal Palm Lawn 1:30pm City Botanic Gardens Note: All delegates will need to clear security screening on return to Parliament House 1:45pm CALL TO ORDER Undumbi Room Level 5 - Yvette D Ath MP Parliamentary Annexe Federal Member for Petrie 2:00pm FEDERAL, STATE AND TERRITORY MINISTERS Undumbi Room PANEL HYPOTHETICAL Level 5 Parliamentary Annexe Hosted by: Senator Claire Moore (QLD) Hon Kate Ellis MP Federal Minister for the Status of Women Hon Karen Struthers MP QLD Minister for Women Hon Malarndirri McCarthy MLA NT Minister for Women 2:45pm SPECIAL PRESENTATION Undumbi Room "Leading our Workplaces: Paid Parental Leave Level 5 Pay Equity–where to next?" Parliamentary Annexe Hosted by: Grace Grace MP, Member for Brisbane Central (former Secretary of QCU) Nadine Flood National Secretary, Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) Jo Justo National Industrial Officer– Australian Services Union (ASU) 3:30pm AFTERNOON TEA Level 3 Colonnade Parliamentary Annexe 3:45pm PARALLEL SESSIONS 2 Please refer to information in the Conference Booklet 5:00pm ADJOURNMENT 10 SUNDAY 15 MAY 2011 Note: All delegates will need to clear security screening on return to Parliament House 9:00am OFFICIAL CONFERENCE PHOTOS Level 3 Colonnade Parliamentary Annexe State Groups and whole Conference Group Please wear your Conference shirts! 10:00am MORNING TEA Level 3 Colonnade Parliamentary Annexe 10:30am SPECIAL PRESENTATION – "Delusions of Gender" Undumbi Room Parliamentary Annexe Dr Cordelia Fine Academic psychologist and writer 11:15am PARALLEL SESSIONS 3 Please refer to information in the Conference Booklet 12:30pm LUNCH – FREE TIME Note: All delegates will need to clear security screening on return to Parliament House 1:30pm CALL TO ORDER Undumbi Room Level 5 Parliamentary Annexe 1:30pm EXECUTIVE REPORT - National Labor Women's Network (NLWN) 1:45pm PLENARY SESSION – Debate of Motions Undumbi Room Level 5 Chair: Senator Jan McLucas (QLD) Parliamentary Annexe 3:00pm AFTERNOON TEA Level 3 Colonnade There will be no official break– debate continues 4:00pm OFFICIAL CLOSE OF CONFERENCE HANDOVER Undumbi Room CEREMONY Level 5 Parliamentary Annexe 11 Repo[1, by Mrs Carol Martin, MLA tuber for Kimberley 2011 National Labor Women's Conference LaborWomen Lead Challenge Inspire 13 15 May 2011 Brisbane, Queensland 1. Purpose of Travel 2. Executive Summary 3. Outcomes 4. Imprest Applications 5. Travel Itinerary and receipts 6. Conference Outline PURPOSE OF TQWEL The 2011 National Labor Women's Conference was held in Brisbane from 13 15 May 201. The theme of the conference was Labor Women: Lead, Challenge, Inspire. As a Labor member, a regional member of parliament and an Indigenous woman it was essential for me to meet with other women members in a national forum to discuss strategies to address issues impacting on constituents in 2011. The conference allowed me to share knowledge of the issues facing Indigenous people, in particular women, to party members. Executive Summary Officially opened by Queensland Premier and National President of the ALP, Hon Anna Bligh MP, the Conference included keynote addresses from writer, journalist and leading feminist, Dr Anne Summers and Dr Cordelia Fine, academic psychologist and writer. Minister Kate Ellis provided a Minister s Address and joined a panel of Ministers for Women along with Hon Karen Struthers MP from Queensland and Malarndirri McCarthy MLA from the Northern Territory. The Conference included 12 Parallel Sessions highlighting important issues for women including pay equity and paid parental leave, domestic violence clauses, combating eating disorders, women with disabilities, climate change and many more. Outcomes A plenary debate was held and a number of resolutions were carried. The subjects ranged from women in the care economy through to the Labor Party's affirmative action policies, and equal pay. Included in the resolutions passed was one calling for ''equal access to civil marriages, regardless of the gender of either partner". The National Conference also carried a resolution on the genocide of Armenians, Hellenes and Assyrians. In total the Conference passed 20 resolutions which will now be going forward to the ALP National Policy Committee for consideration into the ALP National Platform. CAB IMPREST SYSTEM FOR MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT TRAVEL R: Carol Martin BRIEF OUTLINE OF P R',-,O cz F. OF TRAVF! (Please attach a detailed itinerary showing departure/return dates, destinations, appointments/meetings arranged, days on which Travel Allowance is claimed and details of any private/commercial component of the trip.) .. Travel to attend the 2011 National Labor Women's Conference in Brisbane from 14 – 15 May. The theme of the seminar is Labor VI/Omen: Lead, Challenge, Inspire. As a Labor member, a regional member of parliament and an Indigenous woman I feel it is essential for me to meet with other women members in a national forum to discuss strategies to address issues impacting on constituents in 2011. Almost 50% of my electorate of the Kimberley is Indigenous. This conference will allow me to share knowledge of the issues facing Indigenous people, in particular women, to party members. SPOUSE ARRAN Will you be accompanied by your spouse? No (If itineraries of the, Member and spouse are no. identical, please provide details of variations) .• ... •.. .. ..... • • ...... • `, COSTS Fares (I• Member 3110 ,, ii) Sootise $ ...... Trove: Allowance 3 days at 250 per day S...750...... Total Imprest funds requested S ...3860. Imprest credit currently available to the Member „ . ...... PREMIER I DIRECTOR GENERAL Your approva l is requested please for the use of the Imprest System to meet travel costs as outlined above. I certify that the purpose of this travel is related to my parliamentary and/or electorate duties and is not for commercial or private business. In regard to interstate and overseas travel, I agree to provide a written report on the cost. purpose and benefits derived from the travel and lodge, it with the Director General, Department of the Premier and Cabinet (NOTE: This report will be tabled in Parliament). Members siariature.„ ...... APproved Li Not Approved • ...... Premier / Director General Date ITINERARY CAROL MARTIN MLA, MEMBER FOR MMBERLEY 12 – 16 May 2011 2011 National Labor Women's Conference, Brisbane • Thursday 12 May 2011 Depart Broome 11.55am to Brisbane, Qld arrive 5.55pm O Accommodation 13 – 15 May Treasury Hotel Brisbane • 14-15 May attendance at 2011 National Labor Women s Conference o Monday 16 May 2011 Depart Brisbane 11.00am arrive Perth 2.25pm Travel allowance of $1000 (4 Days id), $250) claimed. CAF IN/IPREST SYSTEM MEMBERS' OF PA VENT TRAVEL_ BRIEF OUTLINE OF PURPOSE OF TR•VEI (Please attach a detailed itinerary showing departure/return dates, destinations, appointments/meetings arranged, days on which Travel Allowance is claimed and details of any private/commercial component of the trip.) I attended the 2011 National Labor Women s Conference in Brisbane from 14 — 15 May. The theme of the seminar is Labor Women: Lead, Challenge, Inspire. As a Labor member, a regional member of parliament and an indigenous woman I feel it is essential for me to meet with other women members in a national forum to discuss strategies to address issues impacting on constituents in 2011. Almost 50% of my electorate of the Kimberley is Indigenous. This conference will allow me to share knowledge of the issues facing Indigenous people, in particular women, to party members. My travel plans were changed so that I could travel direct from Broome to Brisbane. This required an additional day spent in Brisbance and incurred and additional cost. Originals invoices are attached to this document. SPOUSE ARRANGFMEI Will you he .q ccomoanied by your spouse? Yes No xLi (If itineraries of the Member and spouse are not identical ; pieaseprov e details of variations) COSTS Fares (I) Member change of right see is voice attached for chanced cot increase amount $ =159.08... Increase in original invoice charge from quoted ar see atta che; 42.91 Shous:=, 0 Travel Allowance additional day 14 May q ys at c,750 $400 per U d y ,,,,,,, „... Total Im p rest funds requested Imprest credit currently available to the Member S. GEN ERAL Your approval is requested please for the use of the Imprest System to meet travel costs as outlined above. certify that the purpose of this travel is related to my parliamentary and/or electorate duties and is not for commercial or private business. In regard to interstate and overseas travel, I agree to provide a written report on the cost, purpose and benefits cerived from the travel and lodge it with the Director General, De p artment of the Premier and ne (NOTE: This renort will b.=, tabled in //- V-717/ Member's signature... Date...3 august ?nil Approved Li Not Approved Premier / Director General Date Carlson Wagonlit Travel WA GOVERNMENT BRANCH: A16990 CARLSON WAGONLIT TRAVEL LEVEL 6 ABM 83 069 087 538 50 ST GEORGES TERRACE PERTH WA 6000 PHONE: 13-0030-2743 TO: DEP T OF THE PREMIER CABINET LEVEL 18 LOCATOR : JYPNIR ST GEORGES TERRACE 197 OUR REF : HHVO465509C PERTH WA 6000 AGENT : LESLEY EVANE RECORD OF CHARGE TAX INVOICE INV NO: 05773-11 DATE: 21MAR11 PAGE: 1 FOR: HON CAROL MARTIN ORDER NUMBER: LYN QUINCE COST CENTRE: IMPREST IMPREST I T I N S R A R Y AIR/RAIL/BUS FROM TO CARRIER FLT/CL ST DA TE DEPART ARRIVE MEALS BAGS PERTH BRISBANE QANTAS AIR 650 I OK 7 3PAY 7:35A 2:00P BREAK 30K BOEING 767 BRISBANE PERTH QANTAS AIR 651 I OK 16MAY 11:00A 2:25P LUNCH 30K BOEING 767 COST QANTAS AIRWAYTKT NO QF 1748 207426 INCT, 29.10 TAX 2834,28 GET 283.43 DOM TRX FEE TKT NO DTF • 32.00 GST 3.20 TOTAL EXCLUDING GST 2866.28 TOTAL GST 286.63 TOTAL CHARGES THIS INVOICE 3152.91 17,7 88288 PAYMENT CHARGED TO 35.20 PAYMENT BY VI 88288 TKT 1748207426 3117.71 BALANCE DUE THIS INVOICE 0.00 PLEASE REMIT ALL PAYMENT DUE TO: CARLSON WAGONLIT TRAVEL ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE LEVEL 6, 333 QUEEN STREET MELBOURNE VIC 3000 OElhay. Trlev5 Lo5:ted Bita :=.3515, Sydney South NSW 1225 Carlson Wagonlit Travel WA GOVERNMENT BRANCH: A15990 CARLSON WAGONLIT TRAVEL LEVEL 6 ABA, : 83 065 087 533 50 ST GEORGES TERRACE PERTH KA 6000 PHONE: 13-0030-2743 TO: DEPT OF THE PREMIER CABINET LEVEL 18 LOCATOR JYPNIR 197 ST GEORGES TERRACE OUR REF : HHVO465505C PERTH WA 6000 AGENT : LESLEY EVANS RECORD OF CHARGE TAX INVOICE INV NO: 15575-11 DATE: 21APR11 PAGE: 1 FOR: HON CAROL MARTIN ORDER NUMBER: LYN QUINCE COST CENTRE: IMPREST IMPREST ITINERARY AIR/RAIL/BUS FROM TO CARRIER FLT/CL ST DATE DEPART ARRIVE MEALS BAGS BRISBANE PERTH QANTAS AIR 65 1 I OK 16MAY 11:00A 2:25P LUNCH 30K BOEING 767 BROOME BRISBANE QANTAS AIR 1031 J OK 17PfA v 77:55A 5:55P LUNCH 30K 73H COST QANTAS AIRWAYTKT NO QF 2788 550656 INCL 7.72 TAY 417.35 GST 47.73 TOTAL EXCLUDING GET 417.35 TOTAL GST 41.73 TOTAL CHARGES THIS INVOICE 459.08 PAYMENT BY VI 88288 TKT 2788550656 459.08 BALANCE DUE THIS INVOICE 0.00 PLEASE REMIT ALL PAYMENT DUE TO: CARLSON WAGONLIT TRAVEL ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE LEVEL 6, 333 QUEEN STREET MELBOURNE VIC 3000 Swison Wag5 ,11ii TFavel. Accounls Rece:vaV,e. Le5k9.5 6 .3g C C. Sc)utr: NSW 235 12 MAY 201 AY 2011 TRIP TO PERTH, AUSTRALIA PREPARED FOR WA GOVERNMENT Carlson Wagor I DO NOT REPLY TO THIS EMAIL ADDRESS IT WILL L HON MARTIN NOT BE ACTION ED VIRTLIALLYTHERE9ODCARLSONWAGONLIT.COM.AU RESERVATION CODE JYPNIR eTicket Receipt(s) 0811748207426 - MARTI/C 0812788550656 - MARTI!C DEPARTURE: THURSDAY 12 MAY Vefify fiight departuiti Aircraft: BME BNE QANTAS AIRWAYS BOEING 737 800 JET BROOME, BRISBANE, OF, 1-031 AUSTRALIA AUSTRALIA Distance (Miles): Duration: 2067 04hr(s) :00min(s) Departing At: Arriving At: Stop(s): 11:55am 05:55pm 0 Terminal: Terminal: •: Not Available DOMESTIC Passenger Name: Seats: Class: Status: Frequent Flyer #: Airline Res. Code: Meals: CAROL HON MARTIN Check-In Required Business Confirmed 3294410! QANTAS AIRWAYS 4DSBN5 Lunch , CHECK IN: THURSDAY 12 MAY CHECK OUT: MONDAY 16 MAY Room Details: Facts: Guarantee: WW TREASURY KING NON SMOKING Room is guaranteed HOTEL AND for late arrival Room(s): 0 Guest(s): 1 Notes: CASINO CANCELLATION IS 24 Rate: HOURS PRIOR TO (VVORLDHOTELS) 230,00 AUD / night ARRIVAL TO AVOID 61-7-33068888 BILLING 130 WILLIAM ST BRISBANE DL 4000 Confirmation: 1992216- Status: Confirmed DEPARTURE: MONDAY 16 MAY Pease verify .1!igh-I times pr ior cder..3rture Aircraft: BNE PER • QANTAS AIRWAYS BOEING 767 JET QF 0651 BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA PERTH, AUSTRALIA Distance (Miles): Duration: Departing At: Arriving At: 2240 05hr(s) :25min(s) 11:00am 02:25pm Stop(s): 0 Terminal: Terminal: DOMESTIC TERMINAL 2 QANTAS Passenger Name: Seats: . Class: Status: Frequent Flyer #: Airline Res. Code: Meals: CAROL HON MARTIN Check-In Required Business Confirmed 3294410! 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IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR AUSTRALIAN TRAVELERS TO USA IF TRAVELING TO THE USA UNDER THE VISA WAIVER PROGRAM APPLY FOR AUTHORISATION 72 HOURS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE AT ESTA WEB SITE HTTPSIIESTA.CBPDHS.GOVIESTA FOR OTHER NATIONALITIES - HTTP://TRAVELSTATE.GOVNISA CWT AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS WITHIN AUSTRALIA 1300 302 578 OUTSIDE AUSTRALIA 61 2 8666 1714 WHEN CONTACTING THE CWT EMERGENCY SERVICES TRAVEL CENTRE A FEE APPLIES IF TRAVEL IS OUTSIDE 72 HOURS IMPORTANT - HOTEL PAYMENT BY DEPARTMENTAL CREDIT CARD PLEASE NOTE WE HAVE PROVIDED A DEPARTMENTAL CREDIT CARD NUMBER FOR GUARANTEE PURPOSES ONLY.FOR THE HOTEL TO CHARGE THE CARD PROVIDED THE DPT WILL NEED TO SEND A SIGNED FAX ON COMPANY LETTERHEAD DIRECTLY TO THE HOTEL AUTHORISING CHARGES. YOUR EMERGENCY ID CODE IS - R2Z5/WAG DEPT PREMIER QANTAS PRIVACY NOTE FOR FULL DETAILS OF THE QANTAS PRIVACY POLICY REFER TO THE QANTAS WEBSITE WWW.QANTAS.COM.AUIINFOIPRIVACY CHANGES TO QANTAS DOMESTIC CHECK IN PLEASE NOTE FOR ALL DOMESTIC SERVICES QF400 AND ABOVE ACCEPTANCE OF CHECKED BAGGAGE WILL CLOSE 30MINUTES BEFORE THE SCHEDULED FLIGHT DEPARTURE TIME ITINERARY QUOTE ATTENTION - LYN FARE QUOTE NUMBER - 1 DATE QUOTED - 17MAR11 CONSULTANT NAME - L EVANS AIRLINE - QANTAS AIRWAYS ROUTING - PER/BNEIPER FARE TYPE - BUSINESS CLASS FARE BASIS - PDX MUST BE ISSUED BY - 21MAR11 BASE FARE - AUD 2805.18 GST - AUD 283.43 TAXES - AUD 29.10 TRANSACTION FEE - 35.20 TOTAL - AUD 3152.91 TALL PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANYTIME WITHOUT NOTICE QANTAS PRIVATE FARE / REFUNDABLE INSTANT PURCHASE FARE REBOOKING AND REROUTING IS PERMITTED FLIGHT CHANGES ARE PERMITTED SUBJECT TO CLASS AVAILABILITY PLUS ANY INCREASE IN PRICE FROM THE ORIGINAL FARE PURCHASED. TICKETS ARE FULLY REFUNDABLE BUT NOT TRANSFERABLE. END QUOTE ITINERARY QUOTE ATTENTION - LYN FARE QUOTE NUMBER - 2 DATE QUOTED - 21APR11 CONSULTANT NAME - L EVANS AIRLINE - QANTAS AIRWAYS ROUTING - BMEIBNE/PER FARE TYPE - BUSINESS CLASS FARE BASIS - JPTWAG01/IPDX CONDITIONS - ADDITIONAL COLLECTION MUST BE ISSUED BY - 21APR11 BASE FARE - AUD 409.63 GST - AUD 41.73 TAXES - AUD 7.72 TOTAL - AUD 459.08 ALL PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANYTIME WITHOUT NOTICE END QUOTE WA GOVERNMENT DO NOT REPLY TO THIS EMAIL ADDRESS iT WILL NOT BE ACTIONED V IRT UALLYTHERE9PCARLSONWAGONLIT.COM.AU REPORT ON 2011 NATION LABOR WOMEN S CONFERENCE JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 14-15 MAY 2011 Background It is generally accepted that Parliaments should reflect the composition of society and ensure that women s diverse interests and perspectives are considered. This principle of equal participation of women and men in public life is one of the cornerstones of the 1979 United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) of which Australia is a signatory. Women make up 29.5% of the Western Australia parliament, with only 20.3% in the Legislative Assembly. After the last Federal election, the percentage of women in the Australian House of Reps has fallen back to where it was after the 2004 election (24.7%). Before the 2010 election the figure was 27.3%. In pursuit of increasing women s voices in Australian politics, Labor Women was established with a focus to improving women s participation both in the party and as representatives of Labor in Parliament. The adoption of 35% voluntary quota of women in winnable seats in 1994 by the Labor Party was a critical turning point in women s activism and representation in the Party, which saw the adoption of the 40:40:20 rule in 2002. 2011 Labor Women s Conference The Conference took place in the Queensland Parliament on the 14 15 May 2011. Opening Address The Hon Anna Bligh MP, the first women Premier to be elected in Australia, opened the conference. She recognised the contribution of women to the Queensland Parliament and the State, where currently 6 women hold positions in Cabinet and 49% of their members are women. The Minister s Address The Minister for Workplace Participation Childcare; Minister for the Status of Women, the Hon Kate Ellis MP also addressed the conference on the importance of implementing the National Plan to Reduce Violence Against Women. Keynote Address Anne Summers, address was titled Australia Women on the Verge. Ms. Summers focused on the impact of the current pay gap on women; 17% in Australia; 28% in Western Australia and 34% in Regional WA; consigning women to poverty in retirement. Currently around half of women aged 45 – 59 have $8000 or less in superannuation. Further with the current earnings an average 25 year old female will have 1.5 million on retirement in comparison to a 25 year old male who will retire on 2.4 million. She argued the core issue are participation of women at 59% compared to 73% for men and where just 38% tertiary educated Gen X women (aged 30-45) in the full-time workforce, compared with 90 per cent of Gen X men. She maintained that the affordability of childcare coupled with the gender pay gap prevented women s participation. Sunday 15 May 2011 Dr Cordelia Fine addressed the conference on her book "Delusions of Gender". Using the scientific method Dr Fine debunked the myth that there are "hard wired" differences between male and females, clearly establishing that it is the cultural influences that establish the "sex differences" not neurological makeup. The conference had various other presentations and workshops which included: feminism for Generation Y, women in the global community, safe at work and home; domestic violence clauses for working women and a panel discussion with various State Minister s for women s interests. 29th September 2011 Page 1 1[1 Ref: 230.11 ED Mr P Conran Director General Department of Premier and Cabinet 197 St Georges Terrace PERTH WA 6000 Dear Mr Conran USE OF IMPREST ALLOWANCE On 27th May 2011 to the 30th of May 2011 I travelled to Victoria, New South Wales and Canberra and in accordance with parliamentary guidelines regarding imprest now provide this letter as my report. Whilst in Victoria I received a briefing from the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency. At this briefing I took the opportunity to discuss the National Radiation Dose Register for uranium mining and milling industry workers. In the ACT I attended the ALP National Left Conference at Parliament House and then in New South Wales I attended a briefing at the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation where we discussed their research and relationships internationally and domestically on nuclear matters. Yours sincerely Hon Jon Ford JP MLC MEMBER FOR MINING AND PASTORAL 23 August 11 ELECTORATE OFFICE: EMAIL: TELEPHONE: FACSIMILE: TOLL FREE: Ref: Pa rI/Im p/Con 14 August 2011 Mr Peter Conran Director General Department of Premier and Cabinet 197 St Georges Terrace PERTH WA 6000 Dear Mr Conran Imprest Travel to Canberra 31 May 2011 — 1 June 2011 On 31 May 2011, I was invited by the Public Health Association to attend a formal dinner to mark Australia s leadership in the area of tobacco control. The dinner was held at Parliament House in Canberra and was timed to coincide with the World Health Organisation s World No Tobacco Day 2011. A copy of my invitation to the dinner is attached and marked A . World No Tobacco Day was created in 1987 to draw global attention to the tobacco epidemic and its lethal effects. It is celebrated by the World Health Organization on 31 May each year. The event is used to highlight risks associated with smoking, and to campaign for the development of effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption. As you may be aware, I have been a long-time advocate and supporter of the introduction of tobacco control measures in the community. In 2008, I successfully introduced the Tobacco Products Control Amendment Bill in Parliament. This Bill introduced a ban on the display of tobacco products at the point of sale. It additionally banned smoking in cars with children, smoking in al fresco dining areas and smoking on patrolled beaches. In this way, I confirm that my travel has been both beneficial and relevant to my work as a member of the Legislative Assembly. The knowledge gained from this travel will assist me in future debate and development of issues of importance in tobacco control and public health. It will be particularly relevant to my plans to work with the government to develop future policies and legislation that will continue to address the issue of tobacco smoking. The travel to Canberra additionally enabled me to further develop professional networks and contacts within the area of tobacco control. This included being able to discuss concepts for new tobacco control programs and projects with some of the key figures, both locally and internationally, in this area of public health. Through this travel, I was fortunate to be able to meet with the Federal Minister for Health and Aging, Hon Nicola Roxon, Dr Shin Young-soo, the World Health Organisation Regional Director for the Western Pacific and Dr David Gray, the former President of the International Union Against Cancer. I was able to speak with many of the other international leaders in the area of tobacco control action, as well as those who are leading the charge on a national level. I have been pleased to find that many of the experts whom I met at the dinner and who work in tobacco control, have also now begun working on preventing the harms caused by alcohol. I therefore anticipate that I will be working with many of these new contacts in the future in my own work in alcohol control. I claim funds from the Imprest Account to cover travel and accommodation (incorporating accommodation and hire car) for a period of 2 days. The amount claimed is $1958.70 in airline travel, (a copy of my airline itinerary and receipt is attached and marked B ), $506.00 in accommodation (a copy of my receipt for accommodation is attached and marked C .) and $91.97 in hire car charges.(a copy of my recept for a hire vehicle is attached and marked D ) Yours sincerely Dr Janet Woollard MP MEMBER FOR ALFRED COVE • • •• •i. •-••••••• n at Parliament House, Canberra on WHO World No Tobacco Day, May to mark Australia s leadership in t control, and the presentation of th Nigel Gray Award for 20 The Nigel Gray Award forAchievement in Tobacco Control will be presented by Dr Nigel Gray, who was the leader of tobacco control action in Australia and globally over many years, and is a former President of the International Union against Cancer. The dinner is also intended to recognise the contributions of some key figures in tobacco control in Australia over the past thirty years. Date Tuesday 31 May 2011 Time 7pm to 10pm Venue Senate Alcove, Parliament House, Canberr Entry to Parliament House Arrive at 6.45 pm at the Main Entrance (Marble RSVP Carol Kemmett [email protected] by 22 May 2011 Public Health Association AUSTRAI; A PC7T L7,7 F -p,:,;se of The purpose of the travel was to attend the World Health Organization s World No Tobacco Day Dinner which was hosted by the Public Health Association of Australia and held on 31 May 2011 at 7pm to 10.pm at the Senate Alcove, Parliament House in Canberra. I was accompanied to the dinner by my husband, Keith. Also in Attendance at the Dinner were; ® Hon Nicola Roxon, Minister for Health and Ageing ® Dr Shin Young-soo, World Health Organisation Regional Director for the Western Pacific O Dr Nigel Gray AO – former President, International Union Against Cancer ® Professor Mike Daube – President, Australian Council on Smoking and Health ® Mr Todd Harper – CEO, Cancer Council Victoria ® Dr Lyn Roberts – CEO, National Heart Foundation o Various other local and international health leaders No Tobacco Day has been observed around the world every year on 31 May, since its inception in 1987. The aim of the day is to encourage a worldwide 24-hour period without tobacco. The day is additionally designed to draw attention to the risk of death-5.4 million deaths every year worldwide—and the negative health effects and cost of tobacco on the community. World No Tobacco Day allows people, non-governmental organisations and governments to unite and draw attention to the health problems that tobacco use can cause. LT.[-Ennd to the World Nc =to Day According to the World Health Organisation, tobacco is the greatest cause of preventable premature death in the First World. Half of all long-term smokers will be killed by tobacco use and, of that half, half again will lose 20 to 25 years of their lives. Smoking is a serious problem for those who are most economically disadvantaged. Australia-wide, smoking kills 15,000 Australians a year, and has killed one million Australians since the dangers of smoking were first discovered in 1950. It remains the biggest preventable cause of cancer and heart disease, and is responsible for more than 750,000 hospital bed days across the country. Many of these hospitalisations result from second-hand smoke inhaled by children under the age of 15 years. The societal costs of tobacco are enormous and cost the Australian economy about $31.5 billion each year. Smoking reduction has been shown to be life-saving and cost effective. 20111 I No Tobacco Day Theme The theme for the 2011 No Tobacco Day was the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, the world s foremost tobacco control instrument. The treaty reaffirms all signatories commitments to a higher standard of health and provides new legal dimensions fo-r cooperation in tobacco control. World No Tobacco Day 2011 was designed to highlight the treaty s overall importance, to stress parties obligations under the treaty, and to expose the devastating health, social, environmental and economic consequences of tobacco as well as exposure to tobacco smoke The convention commenced on 27 February 2005 has been acceded to, ratified and accepted or approved by 40 States. Australia has shown that it is at the forefront of promoting the health of its people by being one of the first countries to sign and ratify this convention. Key Outcomes of the Travel to Canberra 1. Increased knowledge of issues relating to tobacco control action that will assist me in future debate and development of issues of importance in this area, including the development of future government policies to address tobacco smoking. Development of my professional networks and contacts in tobacco control, both nationally and internationally. 3. Discussion with key figures and leaders in tobacco control about the development of future programs and projects in this area of public health. This included the Federal Minister for Health and Aging, Hon Nicola Roxon, Dr Shin Young-soo, the World Health Organisation Regional Director for the Western Pacific and Dr David Gray, the former President of the International Union Against Cancer. 4. Establishment of new contacts and networks in the area of public health which will assist me in my own work in preventing the harms caused by alcohol and the development of future alcohol control policies. Purpose of the Travel The purpose of the travel was to attend the World Health Organization s World No Tobacco Day Dinner which was hosted by the Public Health Association of Australia and held on 31 May 2011 at 7pm to 10.pm at the Senate Alcove, Parliament House in Canberra. I was accompanied to the dinner by my husband, Keith. Also in Attendance at the Dinner were; ® Hon Nicola Roxon, Minister for Health and Ageing ® Dr Shin Young-soo, World Health Organisation Regional Director for the Western Pacific • Dr Nigel Gray AO – former President, International Union Against Cancer Professor Mike Daube – President, Australian Council on Smoking and Health ® Mr Todd Harper – CEO, Cancer Council Victoria Dr Lyn Roberts – CEO, National Heart Foundation ® Various other local and international health leaders No Tobacco Day has been observed around the world every year on 31 May, since its inception in 1987. The aim of the day is to encourage a worldwide 24-hour period without tobacco. The day is additionally designed to draw attention to the risk of death-5.4 million deaths every year worldwide—and the negative health effects and cost of tobacco on the community. World No Tobacco Day allows people, non-governmental organisations and governments to unite and draw attention to the health problems that tobacco use can cause. Gackground to the MrId No Tobacco According to the World Health Organisation, tobacco is the greatest cause of preventable premature death in the First World. Half of all long-term smokers will be killed by tobacco use and, of that half, half again will lose 20 to 25 years of their lives. Smoking is a serious problem for those who are most economically disadvantaged. Australia-wide, smoking kills 15,000 Australians a year, and has killed one million Australians since the dangers of smoking were first discovered in 1950. It remains the biggest preventable cause of cancer and heart disease, and is responsible for more than 750,000 hospital bed days across the country. Many of these hospitalisations result from second-hand smoke inhaled by children under the age of 15 years. The societal costs of tobacco are enormous and cost the Australian economy about $31.5 billion each year. Smoking reduction has been shown to be life-saving and cost effective. 2011 World Ns Tobacco Day .. ieme The theme for the 2011 No Tobacco Day was the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, the world s foremost tobacco control instrument. The treaty reaffirms all signatories commitments to a higher standard of health and provides new legal dimensions for cooperation in tobacco control. World No Tobacco Day 2011 was designed to highlight the treaty s overall importance, to stress parties obligations under the treaty, and to expose the devastating health, social, environmental and economic consequences of tobacco as well as exposure to tobacco smoke The convention commenced on 27 February 2005 has been acceded to, ratified and accepted or approved by 40 States. Australia has shown that it is at the forefront of promoting the health of its people by being one of the first countries to sign and ratify this convention. Key Outcomes of the Travel to Canberra 1. Increased knowledge of issues relating to tobacco control action that will assist me in future debate and development of issues of importance in this area, including the development of future government policies to address tobacco smoking. 2. Development of my professional networks and contacts in tobacco control, both nationally and internationally. 3. Discussion with key figures and leaders in tobacco control about the development of future programs and projects in this area of public health. This included the Federal Minister for Health and Aging, Hon Nicola Roxon, Dr Shin Young-soo, the World Health Organisation Regional Director for the Western Pacific and Dr David Gray, the former President of the International Union Against Cancer. 4. Establishment of new contacts and networks in the area of public health which will assist me in my own work in preventing the harms caused by alcohol and the development of future alcohol control policies. PARLIAMENT OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY Suite 12, 589 Stirling Highway, Cottesloe, W.A. 6011 Hon. COLIN J. BARNETT MLA, B.Ec. (Huns), M.Ec. MEMBER FOR COTTESLOE Telephone ,Numbers: Office — 61 (08) 9383 1505 12 September 2011 Facsimile — 61 (08) 9385 2352 Parliament House — 61 (08) 9222 7222 Email: [email protected] Website: www.mp.wa.gov.au/colinbarnett Mr Peter Conran Director General Department of the Premier and Cabinet 26th Floor Governor Stirling Tower 197 St George's Terrace PERTH WA 6000 Attention: Laurie Birrell Dear Mr Conran IMPREST TRAVEL REPORT- Perth/Canberra/Perth 24 to 25 June 2011 Cost: $3,714.46 Purpose: Attend 55 th Federal Council of the Liberal Party of Australia o Items under discussion included: State and Federal Taxation – personal tax, industry and environment; Rural Affairs – bio-security, beef industry, grain; Federal Affairs – immigration, border security; a I addressed the meeting on state and national issues; ® I had meetings with the Premiers of New South Wales and Victoria. Benefits: It is important to meet members of Parliament from around Australia to be informed first hand of matters affecting different regions, to assist with the formulation of policy and the exchange of ideas. Yours sincerely COLIN J BARNETT MLA Member for Cottesloe ember for Kings Parliament o. ester- Austral: Hon Colin Barnett MLA. Premier of Western Australia 197 St Georges Toe PERTH WA 6000 Dear Premier Imprest Travel Report for Overseas Meetings I am pleased to provide a report for the meetings that I attended whilst overseas in July 2011. These meetings proved to be very informative for the 'Tourism and Training Project' that I am undertaking. I also gained further contacts in both En gland and Singapore. The information gained will be used in the compilation of the final report on the developing the training and workforce development opportunities for tourism in Western Australia in the comin g years. It was insi ghtful to see how other training providers operate and in particular the professional relationships they have with other international schools. It was a pleasure to meet again with Ms Kerry Sanderson, WA Agent General, and learning of the position in which Western Australia is held overseas. I had the opportunity to travel with the WA Delegation, led by Hon Peter Collier MLC, to promote Western Australia as a great place to work. I travelled to Leeds on the first day of their trip, and greatly appreciated the opportunity to see how a dele gation such as this is conducted. May I thank you for the opportunity to use Imprest funds on this occasion to support my Parliamentary work. Kind regards ANDREA MITCHELL MLA Member for Kingsley 5 October 2011 9309 2666 9309 3694 [email protected] ,,ww.andrearnitchell.com.au Unit 4, Woodvale Park Commercial Centre 923 Vilhitfords Avenue, Woodvale WA 6026 Greenwood, Kin ley and Woodvale PO Box 464 Greenwood WA 6924 IMP. REST TRAVEL REPORT Meetings in London WA Anent London Ms Kerry Sanderson provided valuable information on the position and profile of Western Australia in Britain and Europe and the interest by companies in becoming involved with Western Australia. Westminster Kings College This college is world renowned for the hospitality courses and the gaduates including Jamie Oliver. I was provided with a very comprehensive tour of the facility with information being freely provided to me. Many lecturers and administrators answered my questions. Meetings in Singapore Tourism Mana gement Institute of Singapore (TMIS) TMIS is funded through the Singapore Government and provides training courses and professional development courses for staff TIvIIS was established as the travel industry realised that trainin g needed to occur for staff, and they were not doing it. To support Singapore s focus on events and conferences, TMIS does conduct specific trainin g courses for special events. Singapore Govt has a stron g focus on worldorce development and THIS is a key provider of this professional development Singapore Toursim Board (STB) Tourism is a key industry in Singapore and STB have a strong focus on innovation and promotion of tourism in Singapore. They operate under key themes, eg Manpower, Technology, Service. They recognise that the worldorce is their most important asset and see continuous education as their competitive framework. Singapore International Hotel and Tourism Colle ge (SHATEC) SHATEC was founded by the Singapore Hotels Assoc and has more graduates employed as senior managers and executive chefs around the world that any other institute in the region. It has a distinctive program and through internship and other arrangements with the hospitality and tourism industry. It is a private training provider. SHATEC has arrangements with universities and colleges around th.e world. FINANCIAL REPORT Cost of Travel As .1 was travellin g to London for private business, no travel component was requested. However as I needed to chan ge my return flight from London to have the stopover in Singapore to meet with 3 organisations, a fee was charged to do this, at $387.00 Days for Travel Allowance Expenditure for accommodation was requested for 4 ni ghts, totally $1,600: London: 1 ni ght 2 meetings held, Tuesday 29 June, Wednesday 30 June Singapore: 3 nights 3 meetings held, Wednesday 13 July, Thursday 14 July See attached hotel invoices for confirmation. JP MLA Member Hon Colin Barnett Premier 24th Floor Governor Stirling Tower 197 St George s Tce PERTH WA 6000 Dear Colin Re: Imprest account – United States Trip Claim I write to you with regards to a claim on my imprest account, the details of which are outlined below: Trip: Perth to US (Syracuse, Washington DC and New York City) return Purpose of the trip to the US: I was invited to attend and give an address to the Empathetic Therapy Conference in Syracuse, New York State. The conference was primarily for Psychiatrists, Psychologists and other stakeholders including policy makers with an interest in mental health. I addressed the conference on the Lessons learned from the Rise and Fall of ADHD Child Prescribing in Western Australia and participated in panel discussions. In addition, I attended conference sessions with a primary focus on the effective delivery of mental health services. Whilst in the US I will also met with a number of clinicians, researchers, lawyers, legislator s staff, government regulators and agencies and activists with an interest in mental health in a number of locations including Washington DC, New York City and New York state. I also had meetings to discuss housing affordability measures and controls on the licencing, advertising, prescribing, dispensing and regulating of prescription pharmaceuticals with representatives of various organisations and policy makers. Details of trip: 5 April 2011 Depart Perth for New York 10:30pm 6 April 2011 Overnight NYC Arrive New York City 4.00pm 7 April 2011, NYC – Syracuse Overnight Syracuse Drive from NYC to Syracuse, New York State After arriving at Syracuse I met with conference organisers and fellow presenters to discuss format and content of my conference presentation – Lessons learned from the rise and fall of Child ADHD prescribing in Western Australia. 8-10 April 2011, Syracuse Overnighted in Syracuse during conference Attended and presented at Empathetic Therapy Conference 6 0)8 €` € tilt tit 6054 88: 92/9 Fax: 0: —Ii r(7)(111-).W;1.1:10V,Z;ll -2- 11 April 2011, Syracuse to Washigton DC Overnighted in Washington DC Met with Dr Peter Breggin and Ginger Breggin in addition to Dr Doug Smith and Professor Gerry Porter to discuss strategies for the expansion of therapeutic mental health services. Then drove from Syracuse, New York State to Washington DC 12 April 2011, Washington D.C. Overnighted in Washington DC Met with Isaac Levido, Congressional Liaison Officer Embassy of Australia to coordinate itinerary and agenda for upcoming meetings and visits in Washington D.C. Visited the US National Holocoust Memorial Museum with a particular interest in the coverage of Eugenics (given recent efforts to try and rehabilitate it as a science). 13 April 2011 Attended a Special Senate Committee Hearing on FDA approval process for therapeutic devices. Attended sittings of the House of Representatives and Senate. 14 April 2011 Met with Angela W Choy Senior Investigative Counsel and other Committee Staff working for Senator Charles Grassley s and the Senate Committee on the Judicary regarding numerous investigations instigated by Senator Grassley into undisclosed conflicts of interest in medical guidelines and product approval processes and related matters. Met with Dr Murray Lumpkin, FDA Deputy Commisioner International Affairs of the Food and Drug Administration regarding product licencing, advertising, regulation, adverse event reporting and related matters. 15 April 2011 Overnight in New York City Drove from Washington D.C. to NYC 16 April 2011 Overnight in New York City Met with Assistant Professor Dr. William Purtell and discussed controls on clinicians prescribing and dispensing Schedule 8 (US Schedule II) drugs and measures to limit potential for diversion. 17 April 2011 Overnight in New York City Sunday No meetings 18 April 2011 Overnight in New York City Met with Mr Rich Froelich, Executive Vice President for Capital markets, Chief Operating Officer an Ms Joan Talley General Counsel, Housing Development Corporation regarding financial and tax initiatives to promote affordable housing 19 April 2011 Overnight in New York City Met with Ms Lily Torn, Assistant Commissioner for Children, Youth and Families. Division of Mental Hygiene regarding Child and Adolescent Mental Health initiatives and issues. Visited the American Museum of Natural history exhibit "Brain: The Inside Story" 20 April 2011 Overnight in New York City Met with Angela Burton, Professor at City University of NY, regarding legal issues around prescription of psychotropic drugs including stimulants to children. 21 April 2011 Overnight in New York City Met with Mr Eric Schneider (and staff), Commissioner and Assistant CommissionerNYC Office of Children and Family Services and President of the Viola W. Bernard Foundation regarding Child and Adolescent Mental Health initiatives and issues. Met with Miriam Colon Asistant Commisioner of Housing Initiatives, Eric Enderlin Assistant Commisioner of Preservation Finance and Kate Matheny Assistant Commisioner of Strateic Planning NYC Department of Housing Preservation Development (HPD) regarding affordable housing initiatives. - 3 - 22-24 April 2011 Return New York to Perth Expenditure: The total claimable expenditure for the trip will be $13,111.40 comprised of: Airfares x2 ($2815.44 economy class self and wife) $ 5630.88 Internal travel $ 1080.52 Daily allowance from 6 to 21 April inclusive (16 x 400) $ 6400 Tota I $ 13,111.40 I hereby submit my claim for $13,111.40 Yours sincerely Martin Whitely Member for Bassendean 5 May 2011 F:\Hon Colin Barnett.docx Parliament of Western Australia (01 Legislative Assembly :11M JP, []LL Visril[3e, kw ABany Web: www.peterwatson.net (Cedkri-iki 3 4 Q/VT- RECEIVED 2 5 MAY 2011 ti Mr Peter Conran Corporate Information (,,o--, Director General , , Premier Cabinet - / Department of the Premier & Cabinet / 197 St Georges Terrace PERTH WA 6000 REF: REPORT ON VISIT TO GALLIPOLI Dear Peter I was invited by the Mayor of Gelibolu (Gallipoli) to be his guest at Gallipoli for the 2011 ANZAC Day Service. Albany has a sister city relationship with Gelibolu and we have a close bond of friendship and cooperation. I was afforded the opportunity to give a presentation to the Mayor on behalf of the Albany Centenary of Anzac Alliance regarding a proposal for Gelibolu taking part in the 2014 Centenary celebrations in Western Australia and in particular in Albany. I attended the Dawn Service at Anzac Cove and later laid a wreath at Lone Pine on behalf of the people of Western Australia. I am sure the close ties and friendships we have with the Municipality of Gelibolu are now even stronger following my visit. Yours sincerely Peter Watson MLA MEMBER FOR ALBANY -- rd 2.5 May.2011 8rd Suite 1 91-93 Aberdeen Street, P.O. Box 5844, Albany WA 6332 Phone: 9841 8799 Fax: 9841 8637 DUTLINE OF PUR, SE OF r (Please attach a detailed itinerary showing departure/return dates, destinations, appointments/meetings arranged, days on which Travel Allowance is claimed and details of any private/commercial component of the trip.) Will you be accompanied by your spouse? Yes 0 No (If itineraries of the Member and spouse are not identical, please provide details of vari s) COSTS Fares (i) Member S L90 - 0 CD (ii) Spouse Travel Allowance ... . . days at $400 per day S np— 0 0 Total lmprest funds requested Z c1So - Imprest credit currently available to the Member S Your approval is requested please for the use of the Imprest System to meet travel costs as outlined above. I certify that the purpose of this travel is related to my parliamentary and/or electorate duties and is not for commercial or private business. In regard to interstate and overseas travel, i agree to provide a written report on the cost, purpose and benefits derived from the travel and lodge i t with the Director General, Department of the Premier and Cabinet (NOTE: This report \ tabled in Parliament). iviember s sianature.. Approved Not Approved 7 Premier i Director General Peter Watson MLA Member for Albany ITINERARY GALLIPOLI VISIT 20TH April — 7th May 2011 Wednesday 20th April 2011 Depart Perth Flight EK 425 Arrive Istanbul 1755 Saturday 23rd April 2011 Collected by Mayor of Gelibolu and transported to Gallipoli Monday 25th April 2011 Attend ANZAC Service at Gallipoli Tuesday 26th April 2011 Leave Gallipoli take leave until 6 th May 2011 Friday 6th May 2011 Return to Perth via Athens Flight EK420 (GALLIPOLI Logo) MAYOR S OFFICE PRIVATE Ph: 566 93 33– 565 01 00 15 December 2010 Hon. Peter WATSON Labor Party Deputy for the Town of Albany Firstly, I offer sincere greetings and best wishes from my country and from Gallipoli. It is pleasing to see that the friendship that started between our two sister cities during my visit to Albany remains strong and growing since 2002. I had the privilege of meeting with you in Albany on 25 April 2010 during the inauguration ceremony of the "Anzac Peace Park . I left the town you represent with happy memories and permanent friendships. It provides another bond to know that the political parties we are respectively associated with have similar views and positions. Dear .Mr WWatson, am :hoping to be your and :Hon. Mrs Walsixf shost in your sister city Gallipoli during the 91 st anniversary of the. Anzac ceremonies on 25 April 2011. It will greatly honor me and the people of my town if you accept this sincere and warm invitation.- I will , appreciate :a timely response so that arrangements can be made for preparation of the official protocols involving your participation in the ceremonies and also for your accommodation. With the hope of eternal friendship, I offer my respects. (Signature) M. Mustafa OZACAR Gallipoli Mayor Translated from its on al in Turkish by: Orhan Ulusoy Professional Turlcishc>En lish Translator and Interpreter " NAATI Accreditation. No: 68613 AUSIT Member No. 1492 BA5KANLIK OZEL Tel:0286 566 93 33-565 01 00 vvww.qelibolu.bel.tr baskanAgelibolu.bel.tr 15 Aralik 2010 Sn: Peter WATSON Albany Kenti i§gi Partisi Milletvekili Oncelikle Olkemden ve Gelibolu dan en samimi duygularimia sevgi ve selamlanmi sunuyorum. Albany e yapmi§ oldugum ziyaretim sirasinda ba§layan dostlugumuzun iki Olkenin karde§ §ehirlen arasinda 2002 yilindan bu yana geli§erek devam ediyor olmasi memnuniyet vericidir. 25 Nisan 2010 tarihinde Albany de agili§i yapilan "Anzac Barn Parki TOrenleri" sirasinda sizleri tanimaktan son derece mutlu oldum. Milletvekili olarak temsil ettiginiz kentinizden gLizel anilar ve kalici dostluklar lie dOnd0m. Olkelerimizde siyasi temsilcileri oldugumuz partilerimizin de ayni diD§Onceyi payla§tigini biimek, aynca bir bag olu§turmaktadir. Sayin Watson; 25 Nisan 2011 tarihinde yapilacak olan Anzac tOrenlerinin 91 inci yilinda sayin e§inizle biriikte, karde§ §ehriniz Gelibolu nun davetlisi olarak sizleri aramizda gOrmeyi Omit ediyorum. Samimi ve dostane duygulanmla yapmi§ oldugum davetimize olumlu cevap vermeniz beni ve temsilcisi oldugum §ehrin insanlanni onurlandiracaktir. TOrenlere katiliminiz ve konakiamaniz lie ilgili resmi prosedijr0 gergekle§tirebilmek igin sizlerden en kisa zamanda cevap bekliyorum. Dost kaimaniz dilegiyle, saygilar sunanm. M.Mustafa OZACAR Gelibolu Belediye Baskarn FLIGHT CENTRE ALBANY SHOP 19 ALBANY PLAZA ALBANY WA 6330 PHONE: (08) 9841 3099 FAX: (08) 9841 3299 Date: 12 JAN 2011 1/7 FINLAY ST ALBANY WA 6330 Reference: PSHOLE / 7BY2AG Travel Itinerary For: MR PETER WATSON WEDNESDAY EMIRATES AIR FLIGHT EK 425 CONFIRMED 20 APR 11 - DEPART - PERTH/PERTH ARPT 0600 NON-STOP Terminal: TERMINAL 1 20 APR 11 - ARRIVE - DUBAI/DUBAI INTL ARPT 1300 11HRS OOMINS Terminal: TERMINAL 3 - AIRCRAFT - BOEING 777-200LR - CLASS - ECONOMY WEDNESDAY EMIRATES AIR FLIGHT EK 121 CONFIRMED 20 APR 11 - DEPART - DUBAI/DUBAI INTL ARPT 1430 NON-STOP Terminal: TERMINAL 3 20 APR 11 - ARRIVE - ISTANBUL/ATATURK ARPT 1755 04HRS 25MINS Terminal: TERMINAL INTERNATIONAL - AIRCRAFT - BOEING 777-300ER - CLASS - ECONOMY TRAVEL VIA OWN ARRANGEMENTS FRIDAY EMIRATES AIR FLIGHT EK 106 CONFIRMED 06 MAY 11 - DEPART - ATHENS/ELEFTHERIOS VENT 1640 NON-STOP Terminal: TERMINAL INTERNATIONAL 06 MAY 11 - ARRIVE - DUBAI/DUBAI INTL ARPT 2205 04HRS 25MINS Terminal: TERMINAL 3 - AIRCRAFT - AIRBUS INDUSTRIE A330-200 - CLASS - ECONOMY SATURDAY EMIRATES AIR FLIGHT EK 420 CONFIRMED 07 MAY 11 - DEPART - DUBAI/DUBAI INTL ARPT 0255 NON-STOP Terminal: TERMINAL 3 07 MAY 11 - ARRIVE - PERTH/PERTH ARPT 1725 10HRS 30MINS Terminal: TERMINAL 1 - AIRCRAFT - BOEING 777-200LR - CLASS - ECONOMY CHANGES BEFORE DEPARTURE: PERMITTED FROM $125 PER PERSON PER CHANGE PLUS FARE UPGRADE CHANGES AFTER DEPARTURE: PLEASE CONTACT CARRIER LOCALLY PERMITTED FROM $125 PER PERSON PER CHANGE PLUS FARE UPGRADE CANCELLATION BEFORE DEPARTURE: FROM $550 EACH CANCELLATION AFTER DEPARTURE: PLEASE CONTACT CARRIER LOCALLY NO REFUND REISSUE/REROUTE BEFORE DEPARTURE: PERMITTED FROM $200 PER PERSON PER CHANGE PLUS FARE UPGRADE REISSUE/REROUTE AFTER DEPARTURE: PLEASE CONTACT CARRIER LOCALLY PERMITTED FROM $200 PER PERSON PER CHANGE PLUS FARE UPGRADE MINIMUM STAY NO MINIMUM REQUIREMENT MAXIMUM STAY 12 MONTHS I agree that the above dates and times are correct. 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Flight Centre Ltd s terms and conditions are also available at flightcentre.com.au WEST P AC 48500FL I GHTCENTREAL BA SHOP 19 ALBANY PLAZA SH ALBANY HIGHWAY ALBANY WA 6330 Customer COPY 12 JAN 2011 12:25:23 23792948 MERCHANT ID TERMINAL ID 71839453 INV!ROC NO 000885 ACCOUNT TYPE CREDI T VISA 450949...214(s) 03111 PURCHASE $2,150.00 TOTAL AUD $2,150.00 AUTH ID 779582 APPROVED 00 Page 1 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 The study tour was hosted by the Intercultural Harmony Society and the Australian Intercultural Society with the intent of increasing the awareness and understanding of Muslim culture. The annual study tour began seven years ago and combines a capacity to attend the ANZAC Day services at Gallipoli with a study tour of Turkey which highlights it cultural, business, social and political development. Attending the tour with myself Janine Freeman, MLA Member for Nollamara and Bill Johnston, MLA Member for Cannington was; Mr Kieran Walsh, Deputy Commissioner Victorian Police and his wife Denise; Mr Jack Blayney, Superintendent North West Metro Region Victorian Police and his wife Gayle, Mr Arthur Hallett, Principle Hallett West, Lawyers Consultants; Mr Michael Kirwan, Business Consultant; Mr Ahmet Polat, Co-ordinator Australian Intercultural Society and Mr Fuat Layic President WA Intercultural Harmony Society. Background. Turkey is a secular parliamentary representative democracy with a well-established Islamic history most famously from the Ottoman Empire. Around 97% of the population identify as Muslims. The electorates of Nollamara and Cannington have large populations of Muslims, Muslim schools in the electorates or in close proximity and a number of Mosques which includes the Sulaymani (Turkish) Mosque in Cannington. An understanding of Muslim culture and religion is therefore an important aspect of representing the constituents in both the seat of Nollamara and Cannington. In the current context of the political change in Arab nations, there are commentators who argue that the adoption of Turkish multiparty democratic political system of separation of Islam and State is critical for these nations ongoing relationship with the International community. Indeed the study tour coincided with the unrest in Syria, which borders Turkey in the East. Mass anti-government demonstrations were calling for the removal of the President Bashar al Assad and refugees caught up in the unrest were fleeing across the Turkish border to safety. (Hurriyet Daily News Tuesday May 3). On a recent visit to Turkey, the first Muslim member of the US Congress (hosted by the Turkish Confederation of Businessmen and Industrialist (TUSKON)) is credited with saying that Turkey (is) the best example of how Islam (and) democracy can coexist."(Today s Zaman April 30) One of the purposes of the Tour was to gain a greater appreciation of Islam, to counter the fear in the community born of Islamic extremism. As 2011 is in the 10 th year of the twin towers terrorist attacks it is important in multicultural communities such as Nollamara and Cannington to discuss that the core belief of a Muslims is one "who seek peace in this life and the next by surrendering themselves to the one true God"( Stephen Prothero, God is Not One). The Intercultural Harmony Society and the Australian Intercultural Society are organisations inspired by the Muslim Thinker M. Fethullah Gulen who challenges Muslims to demonstrate their faith through pursuing peace and dialogue. 1 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 In Fethullah Gulen s message to Muslim- Christian Dialogue 2002 conference held in Australia he wrote that "all the religions aim to remove discords among humanity and unite them." The foundations of the Interfaith group are to go beyond tolerance to an understanding of Australia as a pluralist Nation which can accommodate and accept difference through understanding and respect. (Muslim Christian dialogue 2002 conference publication) From my notes taken whilst on the trip I noted on the 28th April that; the overwhelming experience thus far is a sense of how close the Muslim and Christian experience is in Turkey – that their history is intertwined and therefore in at least a visitor s sense both celebrated . It is worth noting that the issue of whether the Turkish Government and for that matter the Turkish constitution is neutral on issues of religious beliefs and practices is probably one for debate. The study tour was in the lead up to the June 12 2011 National elections and one of the issues raised by many of the business men and community leaders we met was the exclusion of women who wear the hijab from holding political office, public sector positions, in public schools and universities. Debate over the right of women to wear their hijab was bought to the fore through the Higher Education Board (YOK) determination, in October 2010, that a female student could not be removed from class for wearing a headscarf. Richard Peres in (Turkish Review Vol 1 Issue 2, 2011) questions the practice which disenfranchises particular women and challenged the Republic to consider how "covered women of Turkey can be accommodated and tolerated as in any pluralistic, democratic society and be granted the freedoms and rights other Western countries enjoy." It is a point of interest that in Australia s democracy the issue of wearing the hijab and the burkha is debated not as one of freedom and tolerance but out of sense that to wear clothing that represents religious beliefs is to demonstrate a refusal to integrate. (Hon Bronwyn Bishop 9th November 2005, ABC Radio) In saying this it is important to note that the University of Western Sydney survey of 1300 people published in "Beyond the Hijab Debates" found only 13% of respondents expressed the view that wearing the hijab was inappropriate. In Hind Kourouche s speech to the Travelling Together – Beyond Dialogue 2002 International Muslim-Christian Dialogue Conference in Melbourne and Sydney she explained that "the Hijab is a woman s assertion that judgement of her physical person is to play no role whatsoever in social interaction. "(page 120) In general traveling through Turkey would indicate a growing economy because many of the roads are being upgraded or indeed new roads installed, contrasting to the cities where there seems little "crane" action that designate the investment we are accustomed to in Perth. Throughout the study tour we met with business men who felt passionately about the development of the Turkish economy and re-iterated their strong commitment to Turkey becoming a part of the European Union. 2 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 Day 1– Arrived Istanbul –Thursday 21 April 2011. In transit I met the other parties on the tour who travelled from Melbourne. Bill Johnston arrived on Day 2. After arriving late in the afternoon we dined at a textile businessman, Mr Habip Karakurt s house. Mr Karakurt manufactures car parts (clutch brakes) for local and export markets. Mr Karakurt discussed the importance of the continuing development of the political reforms, which included a lessening of the influence of the military in Turkey. He outlined that business was focusing on the growth in the economy over the next ten years. Day 2 - Istanbul – Friday 22 April Istanbul is an ancient city founded in 658BC with the Tulip as its emblem and surrounded by ancient walls and spaning across the Bosporus – `the bridge between Europe and Asia . At the time the city was celebrating the Tulip festival, tulips and the posters celebrating them were everywhere reminding the world that the home of the Tulip was Turkey and not Holland. It is an important reflection for Perth tourism to highlight the floral richness of a city throughout the city and perhaps not simply confined to Kings Park – as attractive as the Wildflower festival is. Istanbul is home to ancient attractions such as; the Kapalicarsi grand Bazaar, a Byzantine building with hundreds of lead and windowed domes; approximately 2000 mosques with an average of 2 minarets per mosque and a growing economy and population. 3 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 With more than 1 600 000 private vehicles registered in Istanbul traffic congestion is at critical point and has resulted in construction of 20km of new train metro line to join with other existing lines to promote greater public transport and ease congestion. On day two we were hosted on a boat trip by Nazimi Yazar, an executive with the Istanbul Water Corporation, who outlined the increased transport infrastructure project for Istanbul. On the trip in addition to being able to fathom the size of Istanbul, home to 13 million people dispersed over 5343 kilometres the tour host Ahmed outlined how Gulen inspired philanthropy in business people. In doing so many schools and services have been established including disability organisation, a building of which we were shown from the boat. In the evening, joined by Bill Johnston with had dinner with representatives of PASIAD – Asia-Pacific Social Economic Solidarity Foundation, Mr Ersin Karaoglan, General secretary and Mehmet Ali Buyukcelebi Educational consultant . PASAID works with many countries in the Asia Pacific region to assist in education and development. Day 3 – Istanbul- Saturday 23 April. The tour visited many significant places including the Hagia Sophia and the Sultan Ahmed Mosque– otherwise known as the Blue Mosque. The Hagia Sophia is Greek for Holy Wisdom and is a physical representation of the multi religious history of Turkey. From 360 to 1453 it served as the Greek Patriarchal cathedral of Constantinople and then a mosque from 1453 until 1931, becoming a museum in 1935. As Islam does not believe in iconography the mosaics of angels on the roof of the building were covered over on it becoming a Mosque and Islamic features such as the mihrab, minbar and four minarets were installed. It is also the home to preserved graffiti by Vikings – human behaviour has many constants. We had dinner with Celil Konjukcu, who as a textile factory businessman outlined the importance of Russia in the growing Turkish economy. Mr Konjukcu and other businessmen present explained the philanthropic foundations of the Gulan movement who through his teachings are inspired to assist those less fortunate in the community as an action of their faith. Istanbul is home to the Greek Orthodox Patriach Bartholemew, who has been active in inter- orthodox and interfaith dialogue, is a known environmental activist and an advocate of religious freedom in Turkey. On Easter Saturday Patriach Bartholemew celebrated Christ s rebirth at midnight mass and Bill Johnston and I witnessed a moving (if not a bit difficult to understand – it was all Greek to us) service at the Church of St George in the Fener (historical the Greek part of Istanbul). Day 4 – Istanbul- Sunday 24 April – Easter Sunday The Dolmabache Palace was the last palace of the Ottoman Emperors and the home of Ataturk after the revolution which installed the republic and is visited by many as it was the place of his death at 9:05am on 10 November 1938. 4 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 The reverence with which Musafa Kemal Ataturk is held in Turkey is not just evident in this museum but in the large murals, statues and flags of his image throughout the country and that all the clocks at the Dolmabache Palace were stopped at 9:05am until recently — a lasting legacy to the potency of his impact on the nation. In the afternoon we travelled to Canakkale to prepare for the 2 am start for the Gallipoli services and were impressed by the road houses where the attendents on one occasion wore suits. That evening we met with Ahmet Tehci, from Dogan Pastanesi, an ice-cream/patisserie business in the heart of Canakkale. Turkey is renowned for its pastries in particular baklava whose popularity was established in the Ottoman empire of Sultan Mehmet in the 15 century. Mr Tehci was full of enthusiasm to establish a business in Australia, in particular extoling the virtues of his ice-cream. Day 5- Gallipoli — Monday 25 April In 1915 at Gallipoli the new Nation that was Australia had its soldiers deployed as a decoy for the British landing on Suva Bay in a failed, but military understandable strategy, of gaining the Dardanelle straights for the Allied forces. As a State member of Parliament you attend almost all the school ANZAC Day ceremonies in your electorate and the significance of ANZAC Day and Australia s military involvement in war and conflicts is considered by students as a significant contribution to our present day freedoms. So while more Australian soldiers lost their lives on the Western Front the "spirit of Anzac" through the stories of Simpson and his donkey; the landing on the shores; the attack at Lone Pine and the charge at the Nek; are those that are used to explain to students the brave larrikins that fought like gentlemen . The Commemorative Ceremonies At the end of four ceremonies and a visit to Turkish Memorial it is hard to say you were anything other than buggered and intensely confronted by the conflict that Australians commemorate a defeat caused by a flawed strategy of British Imperialism. One of the stories told by another delegate that I had not known was that the Ottomans (the Turks) had ordered and paid for two ships from the British, the British didn t deliver. The Germans then sent them two boats which were deployed up the Black Sea and on firing on a Russian city, Turkey had entered the first world war. The war and a battle on Gallipoli established the Turkish revered leader Mustafa Kamhil — better known as Ata-turk. After urging his men to die for their country on the hills of Gallipoli Peninsula, Mustafa Kamhil went on to be their leader in the war of independence. After the fall of the Ottomans, the Republic of Turkey was born with a nationalism that is still palpable but in the 2011 elections subject to greater scrutiny and question. 5 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 So after weeping in the dawn ceremony at the thought of the young soldier of 15 years 10 months, little older than my son, perishing on the shores of Anzac cove, I was inspired at the speeches at Lone Pine which while respecting the service of our defence forces, acknowledged the futility of war. Utilising the relationship between Turkey and Australia as a metaphor for the importance of friendship over enemies, the message for me in the ceremonies was how Australians are capable of understanding others perspectives. At least once in the ceremony it was acknowledge that we were the aggressor and the Turks withstood. However, the best reflection of the empathy and understanding that grew from the conflict came in Ataturks speech as President of the Republic of Turkey in 1934 : "Those heroes that shed their blood, And lost their lives You are now lying in the soil of a friendly country Therefore rest in peace. There is no difference between the Johnnies And the Mehmets to us where they lie side by side Here in this country of ours. You, the mothers, Who sent their sons from far away countries Wipe away your tears, Yours sons are now lying in our bosom And are in peace After having lost their lives on this land They have become our sons as well" The Turkish memorial illustrated in its grandeur the celebration of the victory. Despite the 18 March- the day the Ottomans repelled the British Navy from the Dardanelles - being a National Day, the 24th is also a full day celebration of the Turkish efforts where they lost 86 000 men defending Gallipoli. I am told the 24th includes a March through the streets of Canakkale and speeches. In addition there is a short Turkish ceremony between Lone Pine (the Australian commemoration) and Chunuk Bair (New Zealand). There an Ottoman Mehter (Military) Band resplendent in period costume play big drums and ornate brass instrument while hundreds of Turkish Izci (Scouts) stand behind each grave waving Turkish flags and with the words "Dear Grandfather I came to visit" emblazoned on their jackets. The New Zealand Ceremony was the simplest but as moving and undoubtedly in the most spectacular location which made the last post and revelry sound haunting. On a technical note the movement of people is concerning as the large VIP buses drive along roads hardly wide enough to contain them while thousands of the public walk along side. Logistically given the expected numbers for the 100 year anniversary consideration needs to be given on how to ensure pedestrian safety. 6 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 Another interesting point that came to light in Turkey was the importance of pilgrimage tourism . In Turkey s case they have a large religious tourism industry. In an article in one of the newspapers it argued that the lessening of the visa requirements from neighbouring countries had encouraged such visitors. The Gallipoli experience illustrated that many Australians make the journey as a form of pilgrimage and would indicate that Albany in 2014, as the port that was last seen by Australian troops on their way to Gallipoli, will be an important event in the Australian travel calendar. Day 6 — Gallipoli to Izmir -Tuesday 26 April On the way to Izmir we visited Troy and the Athena Temple in the village of Assos. The temple of Athena is a spectacular archaeological site of Goddess worship sitting on top of a mountain overlooking the Aegean Sea and with neighbouring Lesbos (Greek) Island close enough to touch. Turkey s religious history, like so many countries in this region encompasses the time of the Romans and the polytheistic cultures that precursor the civilisations that now have monotheistic faiths. The businessman we met in Assos was the proprietor of a small but niche marketed caf that ensured the tourist had the authentic Turkish experience, with appropriate boudoir seating and including the provision of hookahs (the smoking pipe). Sitting on the bus on the way to Izmir I am intrigued by the number of solar hot water systems on the roofs of many apartments, once in Izmir however hot water systems are replaced by satellite discs. Izmir is the third largest city in Turkey and in its present form and past life as Smyrna has been a major port in the Mediterranean region. After the First World War disputation over land which led to the Greco-Turkish war meant that Izmir was under Greek control for 1919 to September 1922. When the Republic of Turkey won control of the city and region many citizens of Greek ancestry fled others where part of the forced exchange of Greek Orthodox Christian and Muslims citizens in Greece that made up part of the Lausanne Treaty. Today Izmir is Turkey s primary port for exports. In Izmir we met with a number of businessmen including Mr Ethem Kucukkaya Henova , a Fish merchant, Mehmet Bafali, General Manager Bafalilar steel wire production, the cousin of a candidate in the upcoming election and a previous Governor of the city. The Governor now holds a position which audits other Governors to ensure they are undertaking their duties appropriately. In Turkey Governor s positions are appointed from Ankora, the capital of Turkey, and seem, unlike Australian Governors, to have greater administrative powers through the management of budgets in their regions. In the discussion on the upcoming election there was a strong sense from these businessmen that the current ruling party AK would win. This appeared welcomed as the businessmen were keen to see further reforms to the constitution to enable greater economic development. 7 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 It was clear that these businessmen of Izmir supported each other, mentoring the younger men in their careers through the local business associations inspired by Gulen. One of these is the Business Life Co-operation Association (SHAD, whereas the major business association in Turkey is TUSIAD Day 7 —Izmir — Wednesday 27 April Izmir is the closest city to Ephesus — the home of an extensive Greco-Roman city which once housed 250 000 inhabitants and now sits in ruins and is famed for the Apostle John s letter to the Ephesians, which encouraged followers in their Christian faith. Amongst the hundreds to thousands of tourists visiting the 18% of the city ruins which has been exposed — is the gauntlet of hawkers outside the entrance — such that the onsite government Museum was closed and empty. The City of Ephesus includes the church of Mary visited by Pope John Paul but the real attraction is a grand library and an amphitheatre that would put Subiaco Oval to shame. The city of Ephesus worshiped the Goddess Artemis, in her fertility capacity- not hunting - in the world s largest temple in her honour . That temple now lays in ruins but a replica is in the Museum, and a statue of Artemis is resplendent with her many fertile breasts. Such a foundation in Goddess worship in a country which is now a Muslim majority is interesting and represents the capacity for the history of a nation to celebrate its past, while acknowledging it faith in one God. For me this capacity to celebrate and show case the past to tourists is something we can learn from in celebrating and showcasing Aboriginal history, its culture and beliefs. This is not simply for the purpose of tourism, although it gives the unique attraction needed for successful tourism, but also for the historical context of the place and people one is visiting. We visited a traditional Iznik tile and pottery factory whose owner is a member of the Gulan business association in the area. We witnessed the making and exacting art of decorating the ceramics. The ceramic art of Iznik began in the 13 th century and became an important centre for ceramic production in the 16 th century with a large display now housed in the British museum. We visited the House of Mary which sat high on a mountain in a peaceful and beautiful area befitting of a woman who gave birth to the son of god and in her dotage being able find refuge in Turkey. Dinner was at the Gulan inspired $ifa Private Hospital. $ifa meaning health in Arabic was established by the Members of the Turkish Doctors Foundation in response to the growing need of Turkish citizens and their propensity to go abroad for treatment. The hospital accepted emergency patients and indicated that all Turkish hospitals had to accept emergency patients. However treatment was paid for by the patient and while up to a certain level was paid for by the government, the gap was substantial and private health care limited. 8 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 The hospital s key attraction was its state of the art technology. Illustrated on the promotional DVD we viewed it presented the equipment as the selling point for all forms of injury and illness management by the doctors. In addition to the technological treatment the hospital planning was to expand into education of doctors. In answer to a question the doctors advised that the Ambulance service was operated by the government, however on observation of ambulances throughout the city, they appeared to have the names of the hospitals they were from and so appeared to be designated ambulances. In 2006 Turkey allocated 7.6% of it GDP to health, providing one doctor for every 700 people, one nurse for every 580 people and one hospital bed for every 380 people. In 2003 the AK party changed the law so private hospitals could operate in a previously totally public system, however as only 2% of the population has private health insurance some 75% of the private health expense was "out of pocket" payments for patients. Day 8 - Izmir –Thursday 28 April The delegation visited the Independent Gediz University just outside of the central Izmir, which was recently established with its first academic year in 2009/2010. The aim of the University is to deliver a relatively low fee institution that attracts overseas students. Professor Dr Seyfullah Cevik, the Rector and other head of school academics outlined that the school had established the school of Engineering Architecture, Economics Administrative Sciences, the School of Law and a Vocational School. We then toured the institution, where staff were particularly pleased to show us the new science laboratory specifically designed for Nano-technology studies, the professor of the area having previously lectured at Monash University. In Izmir the delegation visited the Korfez Private Tutorial Centre which focused on the average Turkish student seeking to get into university through assisting them prepare for the entrance exams. That evening the delegation visited the Yamanlar Private College (established in 1982) and were fortunate to witness a demonstration of Ebru marble art, as well as undertaking a tour of the school with the General Director and meeting with students who at 9 pm at night were studiously at their evening tutoring session. Day 9 – Bursa - Friday 29 April Bursa is the 4th largest city in Turkey with almost 2 million inhabitants and was the first capital of the Ottomans. Bursa s Grand Mosque, Ulu Cam, like so many significant mosques in Turkey has a story behind its establishment. In this instance the Sultan promised Allah to build 20 mosques in his honour, if he defeated the crusading King of Hungary in battle. Upon his victory it was suggested that he build one mosque with twenty domes. The Sultan set to work however the woman who owned a house right in the middle of the chosen site upon refused to sell. 9 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 The mosque was built around her house until 150 years after her death when it was demolished and a fountain was built in the middle of the mosque. Fountains and places to clean are important as prior to the five daily prayers Muslims cleanse themselves in fountains such as the one in Ulu Camii, making the washing of hands, feet and face on the cold days we were on tour clearly an act of devotion. While Bursa s main industry is now automotive it was the final destination of the famous "Silk Road" trading route and famous for its silk manufacturing and we visited the Kapali tarsi silk markets and met with a business woman in the trade. A trip to the Turkish-Islamic Civilisation Museum took us on an interactive tour of the history of Turkey and interestingly also displayed an exhibition of the ongoing historical relationship with Turkey and Germany. We met with the Bursa Police Department (BDP) Police Commissioner Halil Yilmaz. He outlined that Police were established in Bursa in 1885 and currently employ 7 500 employees to cover 17 provinces which had a 2.7 million population. Defining policing as a balance between "anarchy and suppression" the Commissioner spoke of the importance of community policing including their Bursa Police Theatre group, made up of serving police officers, which was performing a comedy in two parts "NAAs Muhteremler (Important Corpse)", a story for both parents and children dealing with drugs. Interesting the BPD was one of the pioneers of crime mapping with geographic information systems (GIS) and crime analysis in Turkey." (http://computer4crime.instablogs.com/entry/crime-mapping-and-analysis-a-case- study-of-bursa-police-department), in an effort to combat increasing crime in Turkey. That evening we met with a textile businessman Ahmet Orhan Chairman, Gespa Tekstil Market Dida Sanayi. Mr Orhan outlined that he sat on a number of company boards as a Director. Day 10 -Bursa —Saturday 30 April The delegation visited a leather factory where the pattern cutting and sewing operated behind the showroom. Interestingly the very precise cutting techniques were undertaken by highly skilled workers but with very limited protection as they wielded very sharp knives along pattern markers. We also visited a warehouse which sold thread to other textile factories in the region and discussed with the business owner, Seckin Sarunhanli and his accountant the taxation system in Turkey which consist of income, corporation tax and a Value Added Tax. That evening we visited the Karabs-I Veli Cultural Centre Cafer Altay, the host at the centre explained that the center was founded in the 16th century and showcases Sufis (Mevlana) culture and in particular the whirling dervishes to visitors. Mevlana Celaddiin-I Rumi, best known in the west as the poet Rumi was a Muslim theologian who preached tolerance, reason, access to knowledge and a belief that all religions were more or less truth. (http://www.mevlana.net) 10 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 On further investigation it appears the Turkish republic banned the religious practice of Mevlana in 1925 however in 1954 whirling dervishes were given rights to perform for visitors but appear currently to still be unable to practice as a religion in Turkey. (http://www.dar-al-masnavi.oreabout-mevlevi- order.html) Sema the dance of the whirling dervishes is a mesmerising remembrance of God (dhikr) accompanied by a chanting choral of musicians beating drums and other instruments. The dance is done by swirling around the Sheikh in the middle and only turning on the right foot. The story behind the dance was that Rumi rejoiced by throwing his arms in the air and whirling on hearing the rhythmic sound of gold smiths hammering at their work as they repeated the dhikr "There is none worthy of worship but Allah". (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mevlevi_Order) Day 11 —Iznick—Sunday 1 May — May Day On the Bus from Bursa to Istanbul we visited the site of the 1St and 7th ecumenical council of the Christian church in Iznick. The council was gathered together under Emperor Constantine 1, who not a Baptised Christian, as I understand, was tolerant as his mother had converted. The purpose of the council was to ensure that there was not war-ing factionalism in the Christian church and to standardise the teachings of Christ. At the 1st council, I am told, they went from multiple gospels (from Mary Magdalene to Philip the disciple) to 4 - Mathew, Mark, Luke and John. The guide indicated that by the 7th ecumenical council they had multiple Gospels again, numbering some 360 and again they were reduced. The 7th ecumenical council at the Hagia Sophia church which we visited previously also removed the prohibitions on paintings and statues; the Church later became a Mosque but now stands as a museum in Istanbul. Iznick has an esteemed history having been the capital of the Seljuk and Byzantines and subsequent to the capture by Ottomans was a centre of art, Iznik tiles and famous Sufis. The city also boasts the first mosque (with no minaret), madrasa and soup kitchen of the Ottoman Period. The museum we visited had artefacts from a Neolithic village, dating to 2500 BC, not far from Iznick — which is the city of Dionysus, God of Wine. The mythological story of lznick, was about the daughter of the River God and Goddess Cybele, Nicaea took an oath that she would never marry (smart girl). Living in the forest and hunting she happened upon the shepherd Hymnus who fell in love with her and she shot him with an arrow (even smarter girl). Unfortunately, that angered Eros the God of Love and he sought council from Dionysus, to no avail because having seen Nicaea bathing in the river had also fallen in love with her and when she was intoxicated, seduced and impregnated her (silly girl) and on agreeing to have his child after the initial melodramatic suicide attempt Dionysis named the city after his beloved. As with many cities in Turkey, the Greek name has evolved and so we get lznick. 11 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 As it was May Day, I was keen to attend the celebrations in Istanbul. Apart from the logistics of time the organisers seemed very reluctant and strongly of the belief that attendance would be dangerous. What I subsequently read in the newspapers was that May Day in Turkey had a violent past when in 1977, 34 people had been killed by a combination of an unknown gun man or men and the stampede that ensued to escape. Since that time the May Day rally in Taksim Square in Istanbul had been banned due to violent clashes with the Turkish police. However May Day 2011, the first politically sanctioned gathering since 1977 and since the reinstatement of the public holiday in 2009 was a important occasion for Turkey. Media hailed the day as a great success for the political change in the country as 200 000 workers celebrated and called for more jobs, better conditions and increased wages. In the evening we met with Sirin Cay tea merchant Ali Kan and Vedat Oruc, Attorney at Law, who was a senior employee of the local businessmen s association, ISHAD in Istanbul. Turkish tea is integral part of Turkish culture, where offering tea is a sign of friendship and hospitality. Turkish Tea is produced on the eastern coast of Turkey and steeped in tradition. Day 12 — Istanbul —Monday 2 May The delegation visited the Samanyolu International Broadcasting Company, a Gulen inspired Turkish TV broadcaster established in 1993. The company has 5 channels both local and international reaching viewers in 80 different countries, including a Kurdish channel for Iraq. In its promotional material the Samanyolu Broadcasting Group claims to be the only private Turkey broadcaster which produces programs with a hundred precent of its own funds and evaluates these programs in its own broadcast group. On our tour we went on set of the ubiquitous cooking show and a current affairs set where Rasim Ozan a journalist for the Daily Taraf was commenting on the death of Osama Bin Laden, the news of which we had awoken to. Later when we met Mr Ozan in a meeting room he was strident in his view that the press lacked freedom in Turkey and that his safety was compromised, citing the death of Hrant Dink a Turkish journalist in 2007, such that he had to travel with a body guard. The Economist Article of 10 March 2011 questioned whether the detention and imprisonment of two investigative journalists on March 6th called into question the claims of a "forward democracy" in Turkey. (http://www.economist.com/node/18333123). However, Today s Zaman of the 20 April 2011 maintain that the crimes were unrelated to their professional journalism function but is a part of the "Ergenekon Case" regarding terrorist plots against Turkish democracy and being pursued by an independent judiciary. (http://www.todayszaman.com/news-241542-unravelling-the-truth-freedom-of-press-in-turkey.html) 12 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 The delegation also visited the Journalists and Writers Foundation s, Mr Ahmet Muharrem ATLIG, Project Coordinator. Mr Atlig outlined that the foundation was established in 1994, with principles "to bring together all segments of society from different ideological and religious backgrounds to debate on any and all issues pertaining to nation and society." (Journalists and Writer Foundation booklet) — M Fethullah Gulen is the Honorary President of the foundation which has established 6 platform areas of culture and art, abant (political debate), women, Intercultural dialogue, media, and research. The foundation organises immersion programs to assist interfaith dialogue such as "Muslim for a month; "Christian for a month" and "Jew for a month". Mr Atlig emphasised the important contribution that Turkey could make in the European Union if they were accepted given their relationship with Central Asia and that they "are the bridge between the two cultures." The delegation also visited the Gulen inspired NGO aid agency `Kimse Yok Mu , the genesis of which came from the devastation of the Marmara Earthquake and a programme broadcast on Samanyolu TV in 2001 "Is there Anyone There?" In 2004 the association established itself as a separate entity, gaining charitable (working in the public interest) status in 2006. The agencies administration costs are set by regulation at 10% of donations and have provided relief aid for thousands of people in Turkey and throughout the world including Pakistan, Indonesia, Myanmar and Haiti. They also run programs such as Sister Family , which brings together wealthy and less fortunate families, where the Sister family meets the "material and moral needs of needy family"((Kimse Yok Mu 2010 Promotional Brochure) Kimse Yok Mu also runs international programs such as the Sudan-Dafur Cataract Project and a school construction campaign for Agacli in Northern Iraq. Late in the afternoon, after Bill Johnson had left for the airport, the delegation met with the Editor of the Zuman Newspaper, which has operated for over 25 years and published an English paper since 2007. There is also an Australian Zaman publishing house based in Victoria. The Editor outlined his role was more of an "Ombudsman" role than I understood as an editor, with he stated "a responsibility to make the news reliable and trustworthy" by responding to complaints regarding reporting in the paper. That evening I experienced the commuter train drive to the outer suburbs of Istanbul to visit with one of the tour organiser s family who ran a pastry shop, the Royal patisserie in Pendik. Pendik is on the Asian side of Istanbul and has a large community of Bosnians who fled to Turkey in war time to the district Sapanbaglari. Leaving central Istanbul around five pm, catching two trains and a ferry we arrived at our destination around 8pm, well and truly a commute, but the shops in downtown Pendik were still open including our destination Given the late night trading on a Monday evening I raised with the proprietor the debate over retail trading hours in Western Australia and whether he had a view. 13 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 As a small business he outlined that trading in the evenings and the weekends made it difficult to sustain a family life and that there was little financial gain from custom in the evenings but that as his competitors opened he had little choice. Not a dissimilar story to that told in many small businesses in WA. Day 13 — Istanbul —Tuesday 3 May The delegation met again with Nazmi Yazar, the Executive from the Istanbul Water and Sewerage Administration (ISKI) Having seen during our visit the Roman aqueducts that still feature in the City scape and visited a historical cistern deep in the bowels of the City which used ancient temple pillars for supports, Mr Yazar took the opportunity to outline the management of water in Istanbul. ISKI manages the water that is collected in reservoirs as well as the sewage disposal system in addition to several private sector providers and Mr Yazar presented us with publications which I attach to this report. I departed Istanbul that afternoon arriving back in Perth on Wednesday 4 May 2011. 14 Member for Unit 4, 10 Cecil Ave CANNINGTON, WA 6107 PO Box 1171 CANNINGTON, WA 6987 Ph 08 9356 5011 Fax 08 9356 5077 Mr Peter Conron cannington@mp,wa.gov.au Director General Department of Premier and Cabinet Governor Stirling Tower 197 St Georges Terrace PERTH WA 6000 Dear Mr Coonron RE: Imprest Travel I am writing to provide you with a report on my recent travel to Turkey from 23 April to 1 May 2011, as part of the delegation hosted by the Intercultural Harmony Society, in accordance with the approval previously granted to me by the Premier, Hon Colin Barnett. The district of Cannington has a large Turkish population, with 199 persons born in Turkey recorded in the 2006 census. The Baris Education Foundation (which draws its inspiration from Fethullah Gulen) operates Damala College in the suburb of Ferndale in the district of Cannington. Damla College principally draws its students from the Turkish community across Perth. The Principal of Cannington Community College, Mr Clyde Graham, reports that Turkish is one of the principal languages other than English spoken at home for students attending his school. This clearly demonstrates the relevance to me of having a clear appreciation of the culture and history of Turkey, and I assume is part of the reason that the Premier considered my travel to be relevant. Please find attached a report prepared on the trip by Ms Janine Freeman, the Member for Nollamara, regarding the trip to Turkey. Ms Freeman also participated in the delegation to Turkey. As indicated in the report prepared by Ms Freeman, I travelled to Turkey on 23 April 2011, the day after Ms Freeman, and I returned to Australia on 3 May 2001, again one day earlier than Ms Freeman. To clarify my participation in the events described in the attached report, my first event was the dinner on "Day 3", Saturday 23 April 2011 with PASID, in Istanbul; and my last event was on "Day 12" with the visit to Kimse Yok Mu, again in Istanbul. Noting this, I attended all the events and meetings as described in Ms Freeman's report. In addition to the comment made by Ms Freeman, I would particularly like to high- light our participation in Anzac Day services in Gallipoli. As this was the "Anzac Spirit" Tour, it is easy to see that this was the key activity for the delegation. Attending Anzac Day events in Gallipoli was a real privilege, and clearly highlights the sacrifices made by so many young Australians in service of the nation. Additionally, our visit in the afternoon of Anzac Day to the Turkish Gallipoli Monument provides a powerful context to the Gallipoli story from a Turkish perspective. In conclusion, I would particularly like to thank Mr Fuat Layic for encouraging me to participate in the delegation, and for his excellent company during our travel to Turkey. With a large Turkish community in the district of Cannington, the trip has given me a special insight into their heritage. In respect of the acquittals of my allowance, I enclose the receipt for my airfare and continue to claim for 9 nights' accommodation, which means my advance of $5,440.00 is balanced by my claim. I appreciate that the Premier believed this travel to be relevant to my duties as a Parliamentarian. If there are further issues that need to be dealt with by me, please call me at my office on 9356 5011. Yours sincerely Bill Johnston MLA Member for Cannington 30 September 2011 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL — 4 MAY 2011 The study tour was hosted by the Intercultural Harmony Society and the Australian Intercultural Society with the intent of increasing the awareness and understanding of Muslim culture. The annual study tour began seven years ago and combines a capacity to attend the ANZAC Day services at Gallipoli with a study tour of Turkey which highlights it cultural, business, social and political development. Attending the tour with myself Janine Freeman, MLA Member for Nollamara and Bill Johnston, MLA Member for Cannington was; Mr Kieran Walsh, Deputy Commissioner Victorian Police and his wife Denise; Mr Jack Blayney, Superintendent North West Metro Region Victorian Police and his wife Gayle, Mr Arthur Hallett, Principle Hallett West, Lawyers Consultants; Mr Michael Kirwan, Business Consultant; Mr Ahmet Polat, Co-ordinator Australian Intercultural Society and Mr Fuat Layic President WA Intercultural Harmony Society. Background. Turkey is a secular parliamentary representative democracy with a well-established Islamic history most famously from the Ottoman Empire. Around 97% of the population identify as Muslims. The electorates of Nollamara and Cannington have large populations of Muslims, Muslim schools in the electorates or in close proximity and a number of Mosques which includes the Sulaymani (Turkish) Mosque in Cannington. An understanding of Muslim culture and religion is therefore an important aspect of representing the constituents in both the seat of Nollamara and Cannington. In the current context of the political change in Arab nations, there are commentators who argue that the adoption of Turkish multiparty democratic political system of separation of Islam and State is critical for these nations ongoing relationship with the International community. Indeed the study tour coincided with the unrest in Syria, which borders Turkey in the East. Mass anti-government demonstrations were calling for the removal of the President Bashar al Assad and refugees caught up in the unrest were fleeing across the Turkish border to safety. (Hurriyet Daily News Tuesday May 3). On a recent visit to Turkey, the first Muslim member of the US Congress (hosted by the Turkish Confederation of Businessmen and Industrialist (TUSKON)) is credited with saying that Turkey (is) the best example of how Islam (and) democracy can coexist."(Today s Zaman April 30) One of the purposes of the Tour was to gain a greater appreciation of Islam, to counter the fear in the community born of Islamic extremism. As 2011 is in the 10th year of the twin towers terrorist attacks it is important in multicultural communities such as Nollamara and Cannington to discuss that the core belief of a Muslims is one "who seek peace in this life and the next by surrendering themselves to the one true God"( Stephen Prothero, God is Not One). The Intercultural Harmony Society and the Australian Intercultural Society are organisations inspired by the Muslim Thinker M. Fethullah Gulen who challenges Muslims to demonstrate their faith through pursuing peace and dialogue. 1 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 In Fethullah Gulen s message to Muslim- Christian Dialogue 2002 conference held in Australia he wrote that "all the religions aim to remove discords among humanity and unite them." The foundations of the Interfaith group are to go beyond tolerance to an understanding of Australia as a pluralist Nation which can accommodate and accept difference through understanding and respect. (Muslim Christian dialogue 2002 conference publication) From my notes taken whilst on the trip I noted on the 28th April that; the overwhelming experience thus far is a sense of how close the Muslim and Christian experience is in Turkey — that their history is intertwined and therefore in at least a visitor s sense both celebrated . It is worth noting that the issue of whether the Turkish Government and for that matter the Turkish constitution is neutral on issues of religious beliefs and practices is probably one for debate. The study tour was in the lead up to the June 12 2011 National elections and one of the issues raised by many of the business men and community leaders we met was the exclusion of women who wear the hijab from holding political office, public sector positions, in public schools and universities. Debate over the right of women to wear their hijab was bought to the fore through the Higher Education Board (YOK) determination, in October 2010 , that a female student could not be removed from class for wearing a headscarf. Richard Peres in (Turkish Review Vol 1 Issue 2, 2011) questions the practice which disenfranchises particular women and challenged the Republic to consider how "covered women of Turkey can be accommodated and tolerated as in any pluralistic, democratic society and be granted the freedoms and rights other Western countries enjoy." It is a point of interest that in Australia s democracy the issue of wearing the hijab and the burkha is debated not as one of freedom and tolerance but out of sense that to wear clothing that represents religious beliefs is to demonstrate a refusal to integrate. (Hon Bronwyn Bishop 9th November 2005, ABC Radio) In saying this it is important to note that the University of Western Sydney survey of 1300 people published in "Beyond the Hijab Debates" found only 13% of respondents expressed the view that wearing the hijab was inappropriate. In Hind Kourouche s speech to the Travelling Together — Beyond Dialogue 2002 International Muslim-Christian Dialogue Conference in Melbourne and Sydney she explained that "the Hijab is a woman s assertion that judgement of her physical person is to play no role whatsoever in social interaction. "(page 120) In general traveling through Turkey would indicate a growing economy because many of the roads are being upgraded or indeed new roads installed, contrasting to the cities where there seems little "crane" action that designate the investment we are accustomed to in Perth. Throughout the study tour we met with business men who felt passionately about the development of the Turkish economy and re-iterated their strong commitment to Turkey becoming a part of the European Union. 2 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL — 4 MAY 2011 Day 1– Arrived Istanbul –Thursday 21 April 2011. In transit I met the other parties on the tour who travelled from Melbourne. Bill Johnston arrived on Day 2. After arriving late in the afternoon we dined at a textile businessman, Mr Habip Karakurt s house. Mr Karakurt manufactures car parts (clutch brakes) for local and export markets. Mr Karakurt discussed the importance of the continuing development of the political reforms, which included a lessening of the influence of the military in Turkey. He outlined that business was focusing on the growth in the economy over the next ten years. Day 2 - Istanbul – Friday 22 April Istanbul is an ancient city founded in 658BC with the Tulip as its emblem and surrounded by ancient walls and spaning across the Bosporus – the bridge between Europe and Asia . At the time the city was celebrating the Tulip festival, tulips and the posters celebrating them were everywhere reminding the world that the home of the Tulip was Turkey and not Holland. It is an important reflection for Perth tourism to highlight the floral richness of a city throughout the city and perhaps not simply confined to Kings Park – as attractive as the Wildflower festival is. Istanbul is home to ancient attractions such as; the Kapalicarsi grand Bazaar, a Byzantine building with hundreds of lead and windowed domes; approximately 2000 mosques with an average of 2 minarets per mosque and a growing economy and population. 3 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL — 4 MAY 2011 With more than 1 600 000 private vehicles registered in Istanbul traffic congestion is at critical point and has resulted in construction of 20km of new train metro line to join with other existing lines to promote greater public transport and ease congestion. On day two we were hosted on a boat trip by Nazimi Yazar, an executive with the Istanbul Water Corporation, who outlined the increased transport infrastructure project for Istanbul. On the trip in addition to being able to fathom the size of Istanbul, home to 13 million people dispersed over 5343 kilometres the tour host Ahmed outlined how Gulen inspired philanthropy in business people. In doing so many schools and services have been established including disability organisation, a building of which we were shown from the boat. In the evening, joined by Bill Johnston with had dinner with representatives of PASIAD – Asia-Pacific Social Economic Solidarity Foundation, Mr Ersin Karaoglan, General secretary and Mehmet Ali Buyukcelebi Educational consultant . PASAID works with many countries in the Asia Pacific region to assist in education and development. Day 3 – Istanbul- Saturday 23 April. The tour visited many significant places including the Hagia Sophia and the Sultan Ahmed Mosque– otherwise known as the Blue Mosque. The Hagia Sophia is Greek for Holy Wisdom and is a physical representation of the multi religious history of Turkey. From 360 to 1453 it served as the Greek Patriarchal cathedral of Constantinople and then a mosque from 1453 until 1931, becoming a museum in 1935. As Islam does not believe in iconography the mosaics of angels on the roof of the building were covered over on it becoming a Mosque and Islamic features such as the mihrab, minbar and four minarets were installed. It is also the home to preserved graffiti by Vikings – human behaviour has many constants. We had dinner with Celil Konjukcu, who as a textile factory businessman outlined the importance of Russia in the growing Turkish economy. Mr Konjukcu and other businessmen present explained the philanthropic foundations of the Gulan movement who through his teachings are inspired to assist those less fortunate in the community as an action of their faith. Istanbul is home to the Greek Orthodox Patriach Bartholemew, who has been active in inter- orthodox and interfaith dialogue, is a known environmental activist and an advocate of religious freedom in Turkey. On Easter Saturday Patriach Bartholemew celebrated Christ s rebirth at midnight mass and Bill Johnston and I witnessed a moving (if not a bit difficult to understand – it was all Greek to us) service at the Church of St George in the Fener (historical the Greek part of Istanbul). Day 4 – Istanbul- Sunday 24 April – Easter Sunday The Dolmabache Palace was the last palace of the Ottoman Emperors and the home of Ataturk after the revolution which installed the republic and is visited by many as it was the place of his death at 9:05am on 10 November 1938. 4 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL — 4 MAY 2011 The reverence with which Musafa Kemal Ataturk is held in Turkey is not just evident in this museum but in the large murals, statues and flags of his image throughout the country and that all the clocks at the Dolmabache Palace were stopped at 9:05am until recently – a lasting legacy to the potency of his impact on the nation. In the afternoon we travelled to Canakkale to prepare for the 2 am start for the Gallipoli services and were impressed by the road houses where the attendents on one occasion wore suits. That evening we met with Ahmet Tehci, from Dogan Pastanesi, an ice-cream/patisserie business in the heart of Canakkale. Turkey is renowned for its pastries in particular baklava whose popularity was established in the Ottoman empire of Sultan Mehmet in the 15 century. Mr Tehci was full of enthusiasm to establish a business in Australia, in particular extoling the virtues of his ice-cream. Day 5- Gallipoli – Monday 25 April In 1915 at Gallipoli the new Nation that was Australia had its soldiers deployed as a decoy for the British landing on Suva Bay in a failed, but military understandable strategy, of gaining the Dardanelle straights for the Allied forces. As a State member of Parliament you attend almost all the school ANZAC Day ceremonies in your electorate and the significance of ANZAC Day and Australia s military involvement in war and conflicts is considered by students as a significant contribution to our present day freedoms. So while more Australian soldiers lost their lives on the Western Front the "spirit of Anzac" through the stories of Simpson and his donkey; the landing on the shores; the attack at Lone Pine and the charge at the Nek; are those that are used to explain to students the brave larrikins that fought like gentlemen . The Commemorative Ceremonies At the end of four ceremonies and a visit to Turkish Memorial it is hard to say you were anything other than buggered and intensely confronted by the conflict that Australians commemorate a defeat caused by a flawed strategy of British Imperialism. One of the stories told by another delegate that I had not known was that the Ottomans (the Turks) had ordered and paid for two ships from the British, the British didn t deliver. The Germans then sent them two boats which were deployed up the Black Sea and on firing on a Russian city, Turkey had entered the first world war. The war and a battle on Gallipoli established the Turkish revered leader Mustafa Kamhil – better known as Ata-turk. After urging his men to die for their country on the hills of Gallipoli Peninsula, Mustafa Kamhil went on to be their leader in the war of independence. After the fall of the Ottomans, the Republic of Turkey was born with a nationalism that is still palpable but in the 2011 elections subject to greater scrutiny and question. 5 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL — 4 MAY 2011 So after weeping in the dawn ceremony at the thought of the young soldier of 15 years 10 months, little older than my son, perishing on the shores of Anzac cove, I was inspired at the speeches at Lone Pine which while respecting the service of our defence forces, acknowledged the futility of war. Utilising the relationship between Turkey and Australia as a metaphor for the importance of friendship over enemies, the message for me in the ceremonies was how Australians are capable of understanding others perspectives. At least once in the ceremony it was acknowledge that we were the aggressor and the Turks withstood. However, the best reflection of the empathy and understanding that grew from the conflict came in Ataturks speech as President of the Republic of Turkey in 1934 : "Those heroes that shed their blood, And lost their lives You are now lying in the soil of a friendly country Therefore rest in peace. There is no difference between the Johnnies And the Mehmets to us where they lie side by side Here in this country of ours. You, the mothers, Who sent their sons from far away countries Wipe away your tears, Yours sons are now lying in our bosom And are in peace After having lost their lives on this land They have become our sons as well" The Turkish memorial illustrated in its grandeur the celebration of the victory. Despite the 18 March- the day the Ottomans repelled the British Navy from the Dardanelles - being a National Day, the 24th is also a full day celebration of the Turkish efforts where they lost 86 000 men defending Gallipoli. I am told the 24th includes a March through the streets of Canakkale and speeches. In addition there is a short Turkish ceremony between Lone Pine (the Australian commemoration) and Chunuk Bair (New Zealand). There an Ottoman Mehter (Military) Band resplendent in period costume play big drums and ornate brass instrument while hundreds of Turkish Izci (Scouts) stand behind each grave waving Turkish flags and with the words "Dear Grandfather I came to visit" emblazoned on their jackets. The New Zealand Ceremony was the simplest but as moving and undoubtedly in the most spectacular location which made the last post and revelry sound haunting. On a technical note the movement of people is concerning as the large VIP buses drive along roads hardly wide enough to contain them while thousands of the public walk along side. Logistically given the expected numbers for the 100 year anniversary consideration needs to be given on how to ensure pedestrian safety. 6 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL — 4 MAY 2011 Another interesting point that came to light in Turkey was the importance of pilgrimage tourism . In Turkey s case they have a large religious tourism industry. In an article in one of the newspapers it argued that the lessening of the visa requirements from neighbouring countries had encouraged such visitors. The Gallipoli experience illustrated that many Australians make the journey as a form of pilgrimage and would indicate that Albany in 2014, as the port that was last seen by Australian troops on their way to Gallipoli, will be an important event in the Australian travel calendar. Day 6 – Gallipoli to Izmir -Tuesday 26 April On the way to Izmir we visited Troy and the Athena Temple in the village of Assos. The temple of Athena is a spectacular archaeological site of Goddess worship sitting on top of a mountain overlooking the Aegean Sea and with neighbouring Lesbos (Greek) Island close enough to touch. Turkey s religious history, like so many countries in this region encompasses the time of the Romans and the polytheistic cultures that precursor the civilisations that now have monotheistic faiths. The businessman we met in Assos was the proprietor of a small but niche marketed café that ensured the tourist had the authentic Turkish experience, with appropriate boudoir seating and including the provision of hookahs (the smoking pipe). Sitting on the bus on the way to Izmir I am intrigued by the number of solar hot water systems on the roofs of many apartments, once in Izmir however hot water systems are replaced by satellite discs. Izmir is the third largest city in Turkey and in its present form and past life as Smyrna has been a major port in the Mediterranean region. After the First World War disputation over land which led to the Greco-Turkish war meant that Izmir was under Greek control for 1919 to September 1922. When the Republic of Turkey won control of the city and region many citizens of Greek ancestry fled others where part of the forced exchange of Greek Orthodox Christian and Muslims citizens in Greece that made up part of the Lausanne Treaty. Today Izmir is Turkey s primary port for exports. In Izmir we met with a number of businessmen including Mr Ethem Kucukkaya Henova , a Fish merchant, Mehmet Bafali, General Manager Bafalilar steel wire production, the cousin of a candidate in the upcoming election and a previous Governor of the city. The Governor now holds a position which audits other Governors to ensure they are undertaking their duties appropriately. In Turkey Governor s positions are appointed from Ankora, the capital of Turkey, and seem, unlike Australian Governors, to have greater administrative powers through the management of budgets in their regions. In the discussion on the upcoming election there was a strong sense from these businessmen that the current ruling party AK would win. This appeared welcomed as the businessmen were keen to see further reforms to the constitution to enable greater economic development. 7 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL — 4 MAY 2011 It was clear that these businessmen of Izmir supported each other, mentoring the younger men in their careers through the local business associations inspired by Gulen. One of these is the Business Life Co-operation Association ISHAD, whereas the major business association in Turkey is TUSIAD Day 7 –Izmir – Wednesday 27 April Izmir is the closest city to Ephesus – the home of an extensive Greco-Roman city which once housed 250 000 inhabitants and now sits in ruins and is famed for the Apostle John s letter to the Ephesians, which encouraged followers in their Christian faith. Amongst the hundreds to thousands of tourists visiting the 18% of the city ruins which has been exposed – is the gauntlet of hawkers outside the entrance – such that the onsite government Museum was closed and empty. The City of Ephesus includes the church of Mary visited by Pope John Paul but the real attraction is a grand library and an amphitheatre that would put Subiaco Oval to shame. The city of Ephesus worshiped the Goddess Artemis, in her fertility capacity- not hunting - in the world s largest temple in her honour . That temple now lays in ruins but a replica is in the Museum, and a statue of Artemis is resplendent with her many fertile breasts. Such a foundation in Goddess worship in a country which is now a Muslim majority is interesting and represents the capacity for the history of a nation to celebrate its past, while acknowledging it faith in one God. For me this capacity to celebrate and show case the past to tourists is something we can learn from in celebrating and showcasing Aboriginal history, its culture and beliefs. This is not simply for the purpose of tourism, although it gives the unique attraction needed for successful tourism, but also for the historical context of the place and people one is visiting. We visited a traditional Iznik tile and pottery factory whose owner is a member of the Gulan business association in the area. We witnessed the making and exacting art of decorating the ceramics. The ceramic art of Iznik began in the 13th century and became an important centre for ceramic production in the 16th century with a large display now housed in the British museum. We visited the House of Mary which sat high on a mountain in a peaceful and beautiful area befitting of a woman who gave birth to the son of god and in her dotage being able find refuge in Turkey. Dinner was at the Gulan inspired Sifa Private Hospital. Sifa meaning health in Arabic was established by the Members of the Turkish Doctors Foundation in response to the growing need of Turkish citizens and their propensity to go abroad for treatment. The hospital accepted emergency patients and indicated that all Turkish hospitals had to accept emergency patients. However treatment was paid for by the patient and while up to a certain level was paid for by the government, the gap was substantial and private health care limited. 8 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 The hospital s key attraction was its state of the art technology. Illustrated on the promotional DVD we viewed it presented the equipment as the selling point for all forms of injury and illness management by the doctors. In addition to the technological treatment the hospital planning was to expand into education of doctors. In answer to a question the doctors advised that the Ambulance service was operated by the government, however on observation of ambulances throughout the city, they appeared to have the names of the hospitals they were from and so appeared to be designated ambulances. In 2006 Turkey allocated 7.6% of it GDP to health, providing one doctor for every 700 people, one nurse for every 580 people and one hospital bed for every 380 people. In 2003 the AK party changed the law so private hospitals could operate in a previously totally public system, however as only 2% of the population has private health insurance some 75% of the private health expense was "out of pocket" payments for patients. Day 8 - Izmir–Thursday 28 April The delegation visited the Independent Gediz University just outside of the central Izmir, which was recently established with its first academic year in 2009/2010. The aim of the University is to deliver a relatively low fee institution that attracts overseas students. Professor Dr Seyfullah Cevik, the Rector and other head of school academics outlined that the school had established the school of Engineering Architecture, Economics Administrative Sciences, the School of Law and a Vocational School. We then toured the institution, where staff were particularly pleased to show us the new science laboratory specifically designed for Nano-technology studies, the professor of the area having previously lectured at Monash University. In Izmir the delegation visited the Korfez Private Tutorial Centre which focused on the average Turkish student seeking to get into university through assisting them prepare for the entrance exams. That evening the delegation visited the Yamanlar Private College (established in 1982) and were fortunate to witness a demonstration of Ebru marble art, as well as undertaking a tour of the school with the General Director and meeting with students who at 9 pm at night were studiously at their evening tutoring session. Day 9 – Bursa - Friday 29 April Bursa is the 4th largest city in Turkey with almost 2 million inhabitants and was the first capital of the Ottomans. Bursa s Grand Mosque, Ulu Cam, like so many significant mosques in Turkey has a story behind its establishment. In this instance the Sultan promised Allah to build 20 mosques in his honour, if he defeated the crusading King of Hungary in battle. Upon his victory it was suggested that he build one mosque with twenty domes. The Sultan set to work however the woman who owned a house right in the middle of the chosen site upon refused to sell. 9 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 The mosque was built around her house until 150 years after her death when it was demolished and a fountain was built in the middle of the mosque. Fountains and places to clean are important as prior to the five daily prayers Muslims cleanse themselves in fountains such as the one in Ulu Camii, making the washing of hands, feet and face on the cold days we were on tour clearly an act of devotion. While Bursa s main industry is now automotive it was the final destination of the famous "Silk Road" trading route and famous for its silk manufacturing and we visited the Kapali Corsi silk markets and met with a business woman in the trade. A trip to the Turkish-Islamic Civilisation Museum took us on an interactive tour of the history of Turkey and interestingly also displayed an exhibition of the ongoing historical relationship with Turkey and Germany. We met with the Bursa Police Department (BDP) Police Commissioner Halil Yilmaz. He outlined that Police were established in Bursa in 1885 and currently employ 7 500 employees to cover 17 provinces which had a 2.7 million population. Defining policing as a balance between "anarchy and suppression" the Commissioner spoke of the importance of community policing including their Bursa Police Theatre group, made up of serving police officers, which was performing a comedy in two parts "NAAs Muhteremler (Important Corpse)", a story for both parents and children dealing with drugs. Interesting the BPD was one of the pioneers of crime mapping with geographic information systems (GIS) and crime analysis in Turkey." (http://computer4crime.instablogs.com/entry/crime-mapping-and-analysis-a-case- study-of-bursa-police-department), in an effort to combat increasing crime in Turkey. That evening we met with a textile businessman Ahmet Orhan Chairman, Gespa Tekstil Market Dida Sanayi. Mr Orhan outlined that he sat on a number of company boards as a Director. Day 10 -Bursa –Saturday 30 April The delegation visited a leather factory where the pattern cutting and sewing operated behind the showroom. Interestingly the very precise cutting techniques were undertaken by highly skilled workers but with very limited protection as they wielded very sharp knives along pattern markers. We also visited a warehouse which sold thread to other textile factories in the region and discussed with the business owner, Seckin Sarunhanli and his accountant the taxation system in Turkey which consist of income, corporation tax and a Value Added Tax. That evening we visited the Karabs-I Veli Cultural Centre Cafer Altay, the host at the centre explained that the center was founded in the 16th century and showcases Sufis (Mevlana) culture and in particular the whirling dervishes to visitors. Mevlana Celaddiin-I Rumi, best known in the west as the poet Rumi was a Muslim theologian who preached tolerance, reason, access to knowledge and a belief that all religions were more or less truth. (http://www.mevlana.net) 10 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL - 4 MAY 2011 On further investigation it appears the Turkish republic banned the religious practice of Mevlana in 1925 however in 1954 whirling dervishes were given rights to perform for visitors but appear currently to still be unable to practice as a religion in Turkey. (http://www.dar-al-masnavi.org/about-mevlevi- order.html) Sema the dance of the whirling dervishes is a mesmerising remembrance of God (dhikr) accompanied by a chanting choral of musicians beating drums and other instruments. The dance is done by swirling around the Sheikh in the middle and only turning on the right foot. The story behind the dance was that Rumi rejoiced by throwing his arms in the air and whirling on hearing the rhythmic sound of gold smiths hammering at their work as they repeated the dhikr "There is none worthy of worship but Allah". (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mevlevi_Order) Day 11 –Iznick–Sunday 1 May – May Day On the Bus from Bursa to Istanbul we visited the site of the 1 st and 7th ecumenical council of the Christian church in Iznick. The council was gathered together under Emperor Constantine 1, who not a Baptised Christian, as I understand, was tolerant as his mother had converted. The purpose of the council was to ensure that there was not war-ing factionalism in the Christian church and to standardise the teachings of Christ. At the 1 st council, I am told, they went from multiple gospels (from Mary Magdalene to Philip the disciple) to 4 - Mathew, Mark, Luke and John. The guide indicated that by the 7th ecumenical council they had multiple Gospels again, numbering some 360 and again they were reduced. The 7th ecumenical council at the Hagia Sophia church which we visited previously also removed the prohibitions on paintings and statues; the Church later became a Mosque but now stands as a museum in Istanbul. Iznick has an esteemed history having been the capital of the Seljuk and Byzantines and subsequent to the capture by Ottomans was a centre of art, Iznik tiles and famous Sufis. The city also boasts the first mosque (with no minaret), madrasa and soup kitchen of the Ottoman Period. The museum we visited had artefacts from a Neolithic village, dating to 2500 BC, not far from Iznick – which is the city of Dionysus, God of Wine. The mythological story of Iznick, was about the daughter of the River God and Goddess Cybele, Nicaea took an oath that she would never marry (smart girl). Living in the forest and hunting she happened upon the shepherd Hymnus who fell in love with her and she shot him with an arrow (even smarter girl). Unfortunately, that angered Eros the God of Love and he sought council from Dionysus, to no avail because having seen Nicaea bathing in the river had also fallen in love with her and when she was intoxicated, seduced and impregnated her (silly girl) and on agreeing to have his child after the initial melodramatic suicide attempt Dionysis named the city after his beloved. As with many cities in Turkey, the Greek name has evolved and so we get Iznick. 11 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL — 4 MAY 2011 As it was May Day, I was keen to attend the celebrations in Istanbul. Apart from the logistics of time the organisers seemed very reluctant and strongly of the belief that attendance would be dangerous. What I subsequently read in the newspapers was that May Day in Turkey had a violent past when in 1977, 34 people had been killed by a combination of an unknown gun man or men and the stampede that ensued to escape. Since that time the May Day rally in Taksim Square in Istanbul had been banned due to violent clashes with the Turkish police. However May Day 2011, the first politically sanctioned gathering since 1977 and since the reinstatement of the public holiday in 2009 was a important occasion for Turkey. Media hailed the day as a great success for the political change in the country as 200 000 workers celebrated and called for more jobs, better conditions and increased wages. In the evening we met with Sirin Cay tea merchant Ali Kan and Vedat Oruc, Attorney at Law, who was a senior employee of the local businessmen s association, (SHAD in Istanbul. Turkish tea is integral part of Turkish culture, where offering tea is a sign of friendship and hospitality. Turkish Tea is produced on the eastern coast of Turkey and steeped in tradition. Day 12 — Istanbul —Monday 2 May The delegation visited the Samanyolu International Broadcasting Company, a Gulen inspired Turkish TV broadcaster established in 1993. The company has 5 channels both local and international reaching viewers in 80 different countries, including a Kurdish channel for Iraq. In its promotional material the Samanyolu Broadcasting Group claims to be the only private Turkey broadcaster which produces programs with a hundred precent of its own funds and evaluates these programs in its own broadcast group. On our tour we went on set of the ubiquitous cooking show and a current affairs set where Rasim Ozan a journalist for the Daily Taraf was commenting on the death of Osama Bin Laden, the news of which we had awoken to. Later when we met Mr Ozan in a meeting room he was strident in his view that the press lacked freedom in Turkey and that his safety was compromised, citing the death of Hrant Dink a Turkish journalist in 2007, such that he had to travel with a body guard. The Economist Article of 10 March 2011 questioned whether the detention and imprisonment of two investigative journalists on March 6 th called into question the claims of a "forward democracy" in Turkey. (http://www.economist.com/node/18333123). However, Today s Zaman of the 20 April 2011 maintain that the crimes were unrelated to their professional journalism function but is a part of the "Ergenekon Case" regarding terrorist plots against Turkish democracy and being pursued by an independent judiciary. (http://www.todayszaman.com/news-241542-unravelling-the-truth-freedom-of-press-in-turkey.html) 12 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL — 4 MAY 2011 The delegation also visited the Journalists and Writers Foundation s, Mr Ahmet Muharrem ATLIG, Project Coordinator. Mr Atlig outlined that the foundation was established in 1994, with principles "to bring together all segments of society from different ideological and religious backgrounds to debate on any and all issues pertaining to nation and society." (Journalists and Writer Foundation booklet) — M Fethullah Gulen is the Honorary President of the foundation which has established 6 platform areas of culture and art, abant (political debate), women, Intercultural dialogue, media, and research. The foundation organises immersion programs to assist interfaith dialogue such as "Muslim for a month; "Christian for a month" and "Jew for a month". Mr Atlig emphasised the important contribution that Turkey could make in the European Union if they were accepted given their relationship with Central Asia and that they "are the bridge between the two cultures." The delegation also visited the Gulen inspired NGO aid agency `Kimse Yok Mu , the genesis of which came from the devastation of the Marmara Earthquake and a programme broadcast on Samanyolu TV in 2001 "Is there Anyone There?" In 2004 the association established itself as a separate entity, gaining charitable (working in the public interest) status in 2006. The agencies administration costs are set by regulation at 10% of donations and have provided relief aid for thousands of people in Turkey and throughout the world including Pakistan, Indonesia, Myanmar and Haiti. They also run programs such as Sister Family , which brings together wealthy and less fortunate families, where the Sister family meets the "material and moral needs of needy family" (Kimse Kimse Yok Mu 2010 Promotional Brochure) Kimse Yok Mu also runs international programs such as the Sudan-Dafur Cataract Project and a school construction campaign for Agacli in Northern Iraq. Late in the afternoon, after Bill Johnson had left for the airport, the delegation met with the Editor of the Zuman Newspaper, which has operated for over 25 years and published an English paper since 2007. There is also an Australian Zaman publishing house based in Victoria. The Editor outlined his role was more of an "Ombudsman" role than I understood as an editor, with he stated "a responsibility to make the news reliable and trustworthy" by responding to complaints regarding reporting in the paper. That evening I experienced the commuter train drive to the outer suburbs of Istanbul to visit with one of the tour organiser s family who ran a pastry shop, the Royal patisserie in Pendik. Pendik is on the Asian side of Istanbul and has a large community of Bosnians who fled to Turkey in war time to the district Sapanbaglari. Leaving central Istanbul around five pm, catching two trains and a ferry we arrived at our destination around 8pm, well and truly a commute, but the shops in downtown Pendik were still open including our destination Given the late night trading on a Monday evening I raised with the proprietor the debate over retail trading hours in Western Australia and whether he had a view. 13 REPORT ON ANZAC SPIRIT STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY JANINE FREEMAN MLA, MEMBER FOR NOLLAMARA BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND 20 APRIL — 4 MAY 2011 As a small business he outlined that trading in the evenings and the weekends made it difficult to sustain a family life and that there was little financial gain from custom in the evenings but that as his competitors opened he had little choice. Not a dissimilar story to that told in many small businesses in WA. Day 13 — Istanbul —Tuesday 3 May The delegation met again with Nazmi Yazar, the Executive from the Istanbul Water and Sewerage Administration (ISKI) Having seen during our visit the Roman aqueducts that still feature in the City scape and visited a historical cistern deep in the bowels of the City which used ancient temple pillars for supports, Mr Yazar took the opportunity to outline the management of water in Istanbul. ISKI manages the water that is collected in reservoirs as well as the sewage disposal system in addition to several private sector providers and Mr Yazar presented us with publications which I attach to this report. I departed Istanbul that afternoon arriving back in Perth on Wednesday 4 May 2011. 14 e Inc. jilan Inc6t4icultural So vto e A.B.N 42 418 325 793 Office: Level 1, 728 Mt. Alexander Road Moonee Ponds VIC 3039 Phone/Fax: 03 9326 2177 e-mail: [email protected] Tax Invoice/ ernent Date: 19 January 2011 nice No: Invoice To: Mr. William Joseph Johnston Member of the Western Australian Legislative Assembly Address: PO Box 1171 Canninlyon WA 6987 Amount Payment Balance Description $1673 The study to tour to Turkey ( Airfare ) $167 G.S.T. Included $1840 TOTAL Total $1840 Payments can be made directly to Australian Intercultural Society's Commonwealth Bank Account BSB No: 063010 Account No: 10735384 MLA Member for Geraldton 9964 1640 • 9964 2892 [email protected] Shop 2, 5 Chapman Road Geraldton NA 6530 /42/1L 1 he-ci /Cie /SiAil-dif efe 6/7 LI/4 o o 0 02 .---itele.2A-4 47/1---1te;J -, c.-6-7•4,,---3 . _ tiZel al ,,Le.-./s,",c7.(1 c-,c, aZ ke-c,, , ze; /I ad) 2-3 4i/. ..."-(_)/-5, q -11 - ?z" ,4-1., Atdeet `74 at"06, 44-41- ) ez4 ,7) - (244 12-4 /ciz- L r7" Report on visit to China, Shenyang/ Anshang / Dandong, 9-11. May. 2011 Ian Blayney MLA, Member for Geraldton This visit was taken as a short side-trip, while my wife and I were on holidays in China. Visit to Ansteel, Anshang. Anshan is the second largest steel producer in China, by output. Its current production is 40mt per annum, moving to 50mt under current industry rationalisation plans. It produces high end products, such as that used for car bodies for Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Its plant at Anshang also produces the rails for China s CRH high-speed railway, in 100m lengths. It is also China s biggest iron ore miner, and has some 90 years experience in magnetite production. Ansteel is a partner with Gindalbie in the Karara joint venture in the Midwest. Karara is the Midwest s most advanced magnetite mine. Gindalbie has a current capitalisation in the region of $1000 million. Other points to note: -Early hematite mining is under way at Karara, producing 480000t over 8 months. This ore is being exported through Geraldton Port. -Starting production at Karara is expected to be 10mt pa (8mt concentrate, and 2mtpa hematite). Magnetite commissioning Dec 2011. -Karara is putting in infrastructure that will support staging to 14-36 mtpa. This includes an 85 km railway line from Karara to Morawa, a 140 km pipeline from Mingenew to Karara, and a 180 km 330kv powerline to Eneabba. -At Geraldton Port, Karara is constructing a dual wagon tipper and rail works, a 255000 t storage shed, and the Berth 7 shiploader. -Karara is a foundation customer of Oakajee Port. -Karara s production is committed to Ansteel for the life of the mine, at Hamersley price for fines, plus quality premiums. -On current known reserves, Karara has a mine life of 30 years at 30mtpa. However I think it would be fair to assume that reserves will increase as the mine develops. It would probably be fair to assume that the mine life could extend to 50 or 100 years. The purpose of my visit to Ansteel was to see where the end product will end up, the final product, and to assure the company that from my perspective they have a wonderful longterm asset, and that I expect Oakajee Port to be be built and operate broadly on schedule. Karara and Ansteel are long term investors in the Midwest, and I look forward to working with them. Visit to Dandong, 11 May 2011. Dandong lies east of Shenyang, some 3 hours by road, on the North-Korean border. I was interested to visit the city, because my home town of Geraldton is considering a sister city in China, and it was suggested that Dandong would make a good fit, with its strategic location, its rapidly developing nature, and the fact that its port is expanding to export a large number of mineral products to be brought via rail from Mongolia and the Russian Far East. Western Australia has a strongly developing relationship with Liaoning Province in the north-east of China. This is currently largely economic, but it would be a favourable thing for both to start to develop people-to-people ties. I think Geraldton and Dandong would make good sister or friendship partners. I have told this to the City, and passed on the information I received from Dandong. The process is currently on hold, due to the City of Geraldton-Greenough amalgamating with the Shire of Mullewa to form the the City of Greater Geraldton. This means the City is currently under commissioners until elections in mid October. When this process is over I hope to be able to continue work on the sister/friendship city relationship. Report on the Use of Imprest Allowance Mr Tom Stephens MLA Visit to Boston, New York San Franciso Friday 20th May to Saturday June This itinerary and schedule of appointments was completed as bleow. Perth (via Sydney) to Boston, New York and San Francisco: briefings and site visit on the One Lap Top Per Child program; attend the Final Session of the 10th Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at the UN; briefings on Climate Change; Justice Reinvestment; and program response to Homelessness. (Due to my ill health on the last days of the itinerary my appointments in San Francisco were cancelled) SPOUSE ARRANGEMENTS Will you be accompanied by your spouse? Yes (BUT NO APPLICATION FOR COSTS) COSTS Fares (i) Member $ 4,216.98 (ii) Spouse $ nia Travel Allowance 1 day at $250 (Sydney) 7 days at $400 (USA) $ 3,050.00 Car Hire Item previously foreshadowed $417.67 Imprest funds requested $ 7,266.98 (PAID) Imprest funds (supplementary) request $417.47 Schedule of completed appointments 1. Meeting with Robert Fadel, VP for International Development, and Ed McNierney, Chief Technology Officer Venue: OLPC headquarters, 10th floor, One Cambridge Center, Cambridge Purpose: to review history, deployments, International outreach and Future Plans and to provide information about OLPC global mission, technologies, goals and methods of getting there 2. Meeting with Michail Bletsas, former director for wireless communication on the XO Venue: MIT Media Lab, 20 Ames Street, Room E15-490, Cambridge Purpose: to review the function of communication and collaboration in XO-built communities. 3. Meeting with Mihir Sarkar and Wu-His Li, Media Lab Research Assistants Venue: Media Lab Studio Purpose: Musical demonstration of collaborating XOs and Music Painter activitiy for children 4. Meeting with Nicholas Negroponte, Founder and Chairman, OLPC Venue: MIT Media Lab, 20 Ames Street, Room tba, Cambridge Purpose: to gain international overview of development, strategies for Government involvement, etc 5. Attend Reception 10th session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues Venue: United Nations, Visitor s Lobby Enter at 1 st 46th Streets 6. Meeting with Ms Suzanne Brown McBride, the Deputy Director of the CSG Justice Center Venue: Council of State Governments Justice Center 100 Wall Street, 20th Floor Contact: Ms Elizabeth Dodd. 7. Meeting with Consul General Mr Phil Scanlan Ms Bec Smith also in attendance Venue: Australian Consulate General 150 East 42 nd Street, 34th Floor (between Lexington & 3rd Avenues) Contact: Will Davis; 8. Meeting Mr Andrew Goledzinowski, Deputy Permanent Representative, UN Mission Venue: Australian Consulate General 150 East 42 nd Street, 33rd Floor (between Lexington 3 rd Avenues) Contact: Ms Joy Duncan 9. Meeting with Evan Juska (Policy) & Rupert Posner (Global Director of Energy) The Climate Group 444 Park Ave South. Second Floor. New York, 10. Meeting with Mr John Haworth of the National Museum of the American Indian Venue: One Bowling Green Contact: Ms Karen Savage 11. Meeting with Broadway Housing Venue: Dorothy Day Apartments, 583 Riverside Drive (at 135th Street) Contact: Ms Ellen Baxter, 12. Meeting with Mr Terrence Hu, Cornell University r for the _outh V1 et 08 9398 3800 Fax: 08 9398 3822 Email: [email protected] 13 June 2011 Office: Suite 2, 714 Ranford Road SOUTHERN RIVER WA 6110 Mr Peter Conran w ww. laic Icgo iran. COM . a Director General, Department of Premier and Cabinet Governor Stirling Building 197 St Georges Terrace PERTH WA 6000 Dear Peter REPORT ON INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL FUNDED BY THE IMPREST SYSTEM Please be advised on 27 May 2011 I travelled to North America to attend the "Third International Symposium on Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide" conference funded by the Imprest System. The conference was organised by The Euthanasia Prevention Coalition. Details of the co- sponsors and a summary of the presentations are provided in my attached report. The summary is as follows: EXPENDITURE: I expended $2,667.31 in airfares and four night s allowance at $1,600. PURPOSE: I attended the conference in my capacity as a member for the South Metropolitan Region. Following the successful defeat of the Voluntary Euthanasia Bill 2010 in the Legislative Council in October last year, I was invited to be one of the presenters at the symposium. BENEFITS: My attendance confirmed the ill-informed yet relentless efforts to legalise euthanasia and/or assisted suicide in jurisdictions around the world. It was of significance to note the sheer volume of jurisdictions that have debated such proposals and voted to hold the line and maintain the value of life. At the very least it has confirmed my view that an ongoing major priority for government ought to be not merely the adequate funding of specialist palliative care facilities but also to educate West Australians of the existence of such facilities. Accordingly, I have provided a copy of my report to the Ministers for Health, Mental Health, Disability Services and Seniors. Please contact me if you require any further information. Yours sincerely Hon Nick Goiran MLC Member for the South Metropolitan Region Alfred Cove, Bateman, Cannington, Cockburn, Fremantle, Jandakot, Kwinana, Riverton, Rockingham, Southern River, South Perth, Victoria Park, Warnhro and Willagee. h r4.1( GOIRAV MC MEMBER FOR THE SOUTH METROPOLITAN REGION Ti-f Iv: : - S iwosiu 17_ d A 4 iSt SL aide Being: An International conference on euthanasia and assisted suicide organised by the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition Held 3 - 4 June 2011 At Vancouver Airport Marriott Hotel Vancouver British Columbia Canada INDEX 1. Introduction Page 3 2. Summary on Keynote Speakers and Topics Page 4 2.1 A modern history of euthanasia Page 4 2.2 Ten years in the Netherlands Page 5 2.3 Update on Europe Page 6 2.4 Winning Australia Page 7 2.5 Victory in Scotland Page 8 2.6 Montana and New Hampshire Page 9 2.7 Euthanasia by the back door Page 10 2.8 Palliative care: promise peril Page 11 2.9 Where we stand today Page 13 2.10 An Australian response to euthanasia challenges Page 14 2.11 A reflection on the human person Page 15 2.12 Parliamentary committee on palliative and Page 16 compassionate care 2.13 Inclusive humanity: framing the debate Page 17 2.14 Maintaining our message Page 18 2.15 Strategy in Western Australia Page 19 2.16 Planning our legal strategies Page 20 2.17 Understanding the disability perspective Page 21 3. Conclusion Page 22 INTRODUCTION This is the report detailing my attendance at the "Third International Symposium on Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide" conference which took place from 3 - 4 June 2011 at the Vancouver Airport Marriott Hotel in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. In addition, I attended the conference leaders meeting on 2 June 2011. The conference was organised by the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition ("EPC"). EPC s co- sponsors for the conference were: Care Not Killing Alliance - UK, HOPE - Australia, Vivre dans la Dignite - Quebec, EPC - BC, No Less Human - UK, Compassionate Healthcare Network, True Dignity Vermont, Montanans Against Assisted Suicide and for Living with Dignity, Physicians for Compassionate Care, Signal Hill - BC, HLI, and the World Congress of Families. The theme of the conference was "Celebrating our successes; preparing for new challenges". My interest in attending the conference was three-fold: 1. I was invited by the conference organisers to attend and be one of their keynote speakers; 2. A member of our Legislative Council has indicated his ongoing intention to bring in euthanasia-type bills in the future should he be re-elected; and 3. Given the volume of correspondence that I received during the debate last year, I was aware that the conference topic was of particular interest and concern to many of my constituents in the South Metropolitan Region. My report endeavours to provide a summary to Parliament of the topics discussed by the keynote speakers, and concludes with some recommendations for consideration by the Ministers for Health, Mental Health, Disability Services and Seniors. Hon Nick Goiran MLC Member for the South Metropolitan Region 3 KEYNOTE 1 – A modern history of euthanasia Presented by: Rita Marker Rita Marker is a former adjunct professor of Political Science Ethics at the University of Steubenville. Marker probably knows more about assisted suicide/euthanasia than any other person on either side of the issue. Marker has been the executive director of the Patients Rights Council since it began in 1987, and was among the first to be profiled in the AMA s American Medical News during its series on "people making news in an era of dramatic change in medicine." Marker is a practicing attorney, and is a member of the American Bar Association, the California Bar Association and the DC Bar Association. She is also admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court. Marker is the author of the critically acclaimed book, Deadly Compassion, and a contributor to Contemporary Perspectives on Rational Suicide. She has also authored and cn-authored articles that have appeared in numerous publications. About the presentation The presenter discussed the latest Gallup poll from the US which showed a declining level of support for doctor prescribed suicide. In particular, 48% said doctor assisted suicide was morally wrong compared to 45% who said it was morally acceptable. The results of this poll (which included many other issues) are interesting, given that the US has two states where doctor prescribed suicide is legal. Logically, it raises the question - if euthanasia was as good, fair and reasonable as proponents profess, would not the level of support increase once it has been made legal and after it becomes part of the culture? The presenter has also observed over a great many years that proponents of doctor-prescribed suicide and doctor-administered death have consistently paid attention to preparation, spokespersons and messaging to advance their agenda. They are well aware that if people are told what they must or must not do, they have a tendency to push back. They also know that effectiveness is dependent upon careful preparation, compelling spokespersons and messages that touch emotions. Consequently, they invest in polling and focus groups to determine key words and key messages that will resonate with and influence people. Lastly, the presenter spoke about how economics inevitably creeps into jurisdictions where doctor prescribed suicide is lawful. A compelling case was recited where a lady with an illness was informed by her insurer that they would not pay for a medical treatment that was available – however, the insurer was willing to pay for a doctor prescribed suicide! 4 KEYNOTE 2 — Ten years in the Netherlands Presented by: Henk Reitsema Henk Reitsema has been working with L Abri Fellowship in the Netherlands for 16 years. His grandfather was killed, without consent, in a Dutch old people s home by morphine overdose. This signalled the start of his active role in the anti-euthanasia lobby. Henk studied philosophy at the Potchefstroom University in South Africa and Theology at Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis Missouri. More recently he has furthered his studies at the Free University in Amsterdam. His work is particularly focused upon the philosophy of technology and science, specifically relating to the developments in nanotechnology and self- replication research. About the presentation In 2001, the Netherlands was the first nation to formally ratify legislation legalising euthanasia and assisted suicide. Subsequently the world has looked on, asking the question whether legalising euthanasia works to successfully regulate the life ending procedures of medical professionals or whether it serves to accelerate the practice of killing as a normalised part of practicing medicine. There have been a number of voices shouting: "see, no slippery slope" as the formal statistics of Dutch government studies over the last ten years have shown no significant increase in the number of legal cases of euthanasia. A more careful look at the situation on the ground , however, shows a massive proliferation of life ending procedures being used, that are not being called euthanasia. For example in 2005, 8.2% of all deaths (ie 11,200) involved "continuous deep sedation" in conjunction with a possible hastening of death. This was an increase from 5.6% in 2001. Also contrary to the general impression, legislation has not stood still, but has continued to move towards an elaboration of the existing legalisation of killing, not only at the end of life but also in the realm of infanticide. The presenter drew attention to some compelling graphs which show the shifting patterns of the number of deaths in various age groups, compared to other nations that have not gone the route of legalisation. In the presenter s view it is the apathy that has now imbedded Dutch society, that is the most troubling consequence of a decade of legalisation. The normalisation of planned death even to the point where in one case a gentleman was unable to accept an invitation to an event as his response was: "I have a funeral to attend at that time in six weeks"! There is a feeling of inevitability that the next phase is death on demand. 5 KEYNOTE 3 – Update on Europe Presented by: Peter Saunders MA MBChB FRACS Dr Saunders is Campaign Director of the Care Not Killing Alliance ("CNK"), a coalition of over 40 UK-based organisations promoting palliative care and opposing the legalisation of euthanasia and assisted suicide. CNK was set up in 2005, as a broad based movement involving professional groups, healthcare providers, disability rights groups, faith-based bodies and prolife groups, in order to combat Lord Joffe s Assisted Dying Bill . It played a major role in defeating this bill in 2006 and also helped stave off subsequent attempts to change the law in the British House of Lords in 2009 and in Scotland in 2010. CNK is now regarded as the lead voice on end of life issues in the UK. Peter has been the CEO of Christian Medical Fellowship since 1999, a CNK member organisation with over 4,000 UK doctors and 1,000 medical students as members. Peter was born in New Zealand and previously trained as a General Surgeon before coming to the UK in 1989. Peter is married to Kirsty, also a doctor, and has three children, Christopher, Benjamin and Jonathan. They live in St Albans, England. About the presentation In Europe there are four jurisdictions that have legalised either euthanasia or assisted suicide or both. In the Netherlands and in Luxembourg, both euthanasia and assisted suicide are legal. In Belgium it is euthanasia that is legal. In Switzerland it is assisted suicide that is legal. In the UK, three bills by Lord Joffe have been defeated in the past decade. An amendment proposed by Lord Falconer was defeated 194 to 141 in 2009. In these instances public safety was the compelling reason – "we don t want to put pressure on vulnerable people to take their lives". However, the presenter expressed concern about the DPP s lack of prosecutions on assisted suicide. Concern was also expressed about the setting up a self-funded Commission which will inevitably report in accordance with its bias. It was noted that the Federal government in Switzerland will review its laws in 2012. Disturbingly, it was also noted that between one-third and one-half of all "voluntary" euthanasia deaths in Belgium are without consent! In Luxembourg the law was passed by a vote of 30-26 in 2008. The Grand Duke refused to sign the bill into law. Consequently, the law was changed and he is now only a figure head. Many other jurisdictional attempts have consistently failed. The German public appears immune from such attempts as they feel they have already been there. 6 KEYNOTE 4 — Winning Australia Presented by: Paul Russell For many years Paul Russell has served as South Australian VP of the Australian Family Association, and president of the National Civic Council. Paul was also chair of the Southern Cross Bioethics Institute and a director of Drug-free Australia. In response to euthanasia bills introduced in South Australia, Paul established the Australian HOPE network to prevent euthanasia assisted suicide. He remains their director. A founding member of DADS (Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome), Paul has a new role as CEO of Right to Life — New South Wales. He also worked for four years for the Catholic Archdiocese of Adelaide on family and life issues. Paul and Anne have been married for 28 years and have seven children. About the presentation This presentation focussed on the recent onslaught of euthanasia-type bills being pushed in the state of South Australia. The presenter explained the chronology of events relevant to recent attempts to legalise Voluntary Euthanasia, and the strategy implemented to defeat each of the attempts. A deceptive attempt to grossly discredit opposition to the bill was also discussed. Of note was the presenter s experience of being told by an opponent: "we only need to win once, you need to win every time". It was noted that there are currently several bills proposing the legalisation of Euthanasia before the South Australian parliament at present. 7 KEYNOTE 5 — Victory in Scotland Presented by: Dr Gordon Macdonald Since the founding of the Scottish Parliament in 1999, Dr Macdonald has worked as Parliamentary Officer for Christian Action Research and Education (CARE). In addition, he works for the Care Not Killing Alliance as its Policy Officer in Scotland. Care Not Killing is the leading anti-euthanasia coalition in the UK, consisting of over 40 human rights, faith-based, disability and pro-life organisations. Dr Macdonald led the campaign to oppose the End of Life Assistance (Scotland) Bill which was defeated by a massive majority in the Scottish Parliament in December 2010. Dr Macdonald has a PhD in Political Economy and is currently completing an M.Th degree in Christian Ethics. He is married with three children and is active in politics. He has been an elected representative in local government and stood as a candidate for the Scottish Parliament in this year s election. About the Presentation This session considered the recent experience in Scotland. In 2010, an attempt was made to legalise both assisted suicide and euthanasia. Dr Macdonald presented the background to the Bill both in the Scottish and wider UK contexts. He analysed the political culture of the Scottish Parliament, the specific proposals contained in the End of Life Assistance (Scotland) Bill and the issues which arose during the parliament s scrutiny of the Bill. In addition, the role played by the Scottish media throughout the debate was considered. Dr Macdonald described the campaign run by Care Not Killing in opposing the Bill, detailing the objectives of the campaign, its outcomes and lessons learned. The potential impact of the legalisation of assisted suicide or euthanasia in Scotland upon the rest of the UK was also considered. Finally, Dr Macdonald considered the present political context as a result of the outcome of May s election to the Scottish Parliament and the likelihood of a further Bill attempting to legalise assisted suicide and euthanasia, being introduced in the next session of the parliament. 8 KEYNOTE 6 – Montana and New Hampshire Presented by: Nancy Elliott and Bradley D Williams A three-term State Representative from New Hampshire, Nancy Elliott is the President of the New Hampshire Federation of Republican Women and a member of the Executive Committee of the New Hampshire Republican Party. Whilst serving on the Judiciary Committee in the New Hampshire House of Representatives, she was instrumental in defeating HB 304. As a private citizen in 2011, she was instrumental in defeating a similar bill, HB 513. In 2011, Nancy was invited to Montana to assist Montana State, Senator Greg Hinkle in fighting assisted suicide. Whilst there, she worked with newcomer, Bradley D. Williams. For over 40 years, Bradley D Williams has worked as a commissioned sales representative, most recently for a wholesale lumber company. He is now Coordinator of the grassroots organisation, Montanans Against Assisted Suicide For Living with Dignity. About the Presentation In Vermont, the first foot in the door was HB656, a "Do not resuscitate bill" that included living wills and advanced directives. The bill sought subtle (and not-so-subtle) changes in the law, in favour of death: doctors could issue "do not resuscitate" orders, without patient input. The second foot, HB304, was an Oregon-style physician-assisted suicide bill, that would have applied to people with disabilities and chronic conditions such as HIV/AIDS. These New Hampshire bills were defeated. The next attempt was entitled "HB513 – Physician Assisted Suicide." Nancy Elliott explained how the bill was moved to the Judiciary Committee (where it was defeated, 15 to 1), and ultimately how the bill was defeated on the House floor, 234 to 99. Nancy also described a new pro-active organisation "Living with Dignity, New Hampshire". Meanwhile, in 2009 a Montana Supreme Court decision, Baxter v State, opened the window to legalisation of physician-assisted suicide in Montana. State Senator Greg Hinkle responded with a bill, SB 116, to reverse Baxter s holding. Opponents introduced a competing Oregon-style bill, SB 167, to legalise assisted-suicide. During a Judiciary Committee hearing on both SB 116 and SB 167, Mr Williams helped beat back a well-funded opponent to prevent legalisation of assisted suicide. Senator Hinkle s bill also failed, leaving the Baxter decision in place. Mr Williams is convinced that the battle is winnable to close the window on assisted-suicide in Montana. 9 KEYNOTE 7 – Euthanasia by the back door Presented by: Linda Couture Working primarily in the public health sector, Linda Couture has created and launched several national prevention and awareness campaigns targeted at a variety of age groups. She was involved in the development of various educational, social and community-oriented organisations, notably the Quebec Council on Tobacco and Health. She was awarded the Equinoxe prize by the Societe des Relationnistes du Quebec in recognition of the excellence of her work on the Commando Oxygêne campaign. Linda holds a B.A in Communications from the University of Ottawa and is the director of Living with Dignity. She has extensive experience in public relations, partnership building and event planning. Mrs Couture is currently studying part-time to earn her master s degree in communications. About the presentation During the past year, the Quebec National Assembly established a Dying With Dignity (DWD) Commission. Members of the commission held 29 days of public hearings in eight cities. More than 300 briefs and testimonials were submitted or presented by individuals or group representatives. For at least five years the pro-euthanasia lobby has been influencing key people in the medical, legal, provincial community organisation, government and the media. It is understood that the lobby has worked hard to influence the Commission. The encouraging news is that it looks as if there is a political will to improve the accessibility and the development of palliative care. However, the commissioners appear to be opening the back door to euthanasia, to make it part of the continuum of health care "only in certain exceptional cases". 10 KEYNOTE 8— Palliative Care: Promise Peril Presented by: Dr Margaret Cottle and Harry van Bommel For over twenty years, Vancouver palliative care physician Dr Cottle has been caring for terminally ill patients through Palliative Care Services at several hospitals. Dr Cottle works with Home Hospice Services, supporting the nursing staff and visiting patients at home. She is also a clinical instructor at the University of British Columbia. Dr Cottle is a member of the Canadian Society of Palliative Care Physicians, the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, and the Latin American Palliative Care Association. She also serves on the board for the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition of Canada. The author of 40 books, Harry van Bommel has been a patient and caregiver advocate for over 30 years since caring for his parents and grandfather until their passing, at home. About the presentations The Dark Thread: Putting Fear in its Place at the End of Life Many people are fearful not only of dying themselves, but also of any close association with those who have life threatening or terminal illnesses. However, patients and caregivers who face these difficult situations together often experience profound richness and personal growth that far outweigh the fears they had originally imagined. Dr Cottle provided current information about palliative care and the resources that are available to patients and families to alleviate suffering, to maintain independence and to reduce unnecessary fear. Many also fear a loss of independence and control at the end of their lives. This fear may lead to support for the legalisation of various means of assisted death. The presenter went on to demonstrate compelling data from every jurisdiction where euthanasia or physician assisted suicide has been legalised to show that assisted death is impossible to regulate and easy to abuse. It is essential to maintain a healthy fear of the real dangers of assisted death in order to prevent further damage to individuals and to society in general. This was an outstanding presentation. Threats to Hospice Care: Origins and Strategies Both hospice care and the euthanasia movements started in the early 70s in North America for the same reasons: the often-torturous care and isolated dying of so many loved ones. The divergent movements started for the same reasons and are now trying to converge again towards a hurried death rather than a life-affirming supportive environment in which we can live fully until we die. 11 In the presenter s view, so often within the anti-euthanasia movement palliative care is promoted (or at least the practice of the thoughtful palliative care philosophy of care) as the key answer to those who might want to die by euthanasia. Too often it is said that meeting someone s physical, emotional, spiritual and information needs will be enough to minimise the chances that someone will want to die before their time. Harry suggested that in this way we fail to be mindful that palliative care, as a movement, is becoming bureaucratised to the point where it sometimes replicates the dangerous trends within modern health care itself – the untimely death of people who are seen by society in general, and within health care specifically, as not valued. Whether these people are elderly, disabled, unproductive, or dying, the presumption is that they would rather be dead than alive. Harry looked at the modern trends that put people at risk of dying sooner, with less pain and symptom control, and with fewer supports than palliative care programs were designed to provide. He concluded that the movement is at risk of ending up in exactly the spot where it started in the early 1970s – the point where people were dying so poorly and with so few supports that they would rather die than go on living. 12 KEYNOTE 9 – Where we stand today Presented by: Alex Schadenberg When the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition became active in July 1999, its stated goal was to build a well-informed, broadly based membership of groups and individuals in order to establish an effective social barrier to euthanasia and assisted suicide. Alex Schadenberg was a founding member, and has been the Executive Director since that date. As the movement grew, he was named the chairperson for the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition – International, in November 2007. Alex is a regular participant in the International Congress, organised by the Pontifical Academy for Life and the International Federation of Catholic Medical Associations in March 2004 which focused on Life Sustaining Treatments and Vegetative State: Scientific Advances and Ethical Dilemmas. The International Congress has also focused on the issues related to Conscience in 2007, the dying person in 2008, and Eugenics in 2009. Alex has had articles published in newspapers throughout Canada with his commentaries being published by world-wide news services. About the presentation This presentation focussed on the threat of euthanasia to the vulnerable person. Euthanasia is not the withholding or withdrawing medical treatment that is useless (futile) burdensome or extra-ordinary. It is also not the proper use of sedating a person with a regimen of drugs to relieve pain. Some discussion took place around the Commission in Quebec. Additionally, some discussion took place about the Rasouli case, the Farewell Foundation case and the Carter case. Two Belgium studies on euthanasia provided shocking results. In the first study doctors admitted in 32% of cases that no consent was obtained. Meanwhile, in the second study nurses admitted that the figure was in fact 45%! The presenter also highlighted data from Oregon. Only one in 65 reported cases in 2010 were referred for psychological assessment. The figure was nil in 2009 out of 59 reported cases. Lastly the presenter focussed on the likely victims. In particular he looked at elder spousal abuse – choice is an illusion, especially in the context of abuse. 13 KEYNOTE 10 — An Australian Response to Euthanasia Challenges Presented by: Senator Helen Polley Senator Helen Polley is the third of four children born in a small town called Ulverstone on the North West Coast of Tasmania. Her passion for politics began at an early age. As the first female President of the Tasmanian Branch of the Australian Labor Party (1992 — 1995) she acquired first-hand knowledge of the big issues affecting Tasmania. Helen was elected as Senator for Tasmania, beginning July 2005. Helen is particularly concerned for the rights of Australian workers and is a passionate member of the Australian Workers Union. She is Chair of the Finance and Public Administration Committee, which maintains oversight over three portfolios that include Parliament, Senate and Parliamentary Services; Prime Minister and Cabinet; and Regional Australia, Regional Development and Local Government, Finance and Deregulation. As Chair, she has overseen the completion of a number of inquiries into government actions. Helen is also a member of the Joint Committee on Electoral Matters, which enquires into electoral laws and their administration. Senator Polley is also a member of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Law Enforcement. This committee recently reported to both Houses of Parliament on legislative arrangements to outlaw serious and organised crime groups. The committee is currently enquiring into the adequacy of aviation and maritime security measures to combat serious and organised crime. Helen serves on the Reference Committee, which deals with all other matters referred by the Senate. About the presentation The structure of government in Australia is similar to many other democracies around the world. The Australian Constitution defines the roles and responsibilities of the federal parliament and the state and territory parliaments. However, the relationship between the federal and state parliaments and the federal and territory parliaments, is quite different. In the past twenty years there has been thirty two pieces of legislation that have related to Euthanasia. In Australia, euthanasia is covered by State and Territory criminal law which makes it an offence to hasten or bring about a person s death by artificial means. Various attempts have been made in State and Territory legislatures to amend the law to allow an exception for medical practitioners to assist death in certain circumstances and with the patient s consent. These attempts have usually been made by independents or members of minor parties, such as the Australian Democrats and the Australian Greens, while major parties have tended not to support such legislation. At the federal level, legislative activity has been confined to whether the territories should be able to legislate to allow euthanasia and to restrict the distribution of suicide material on the Internet. 14 KEYNOTE 11— A reflection on the human person Presented by: Msgr Ignacio Barreiro Monsignor Ignacio Barreiro was born in Montevideo Uruguay. After receiving the law degree from the University of the Republic in Montevideo, he was appointed as foreign service officer for Uruguay in 1975. For more than five years he was in the Uruguay delegation to the U.N. He was ordained a priest for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York on Nov. 14, 1987. He received his licentiate and doctorate degree in Systematic Theology from the University of the Holy Cross in Rome. Msgr. Barreiro has published hundreds of articles on theological, life issues, and historical subjects. He was appointed a Chaplain of His Holiness on March 26, 2004. Since September 1998, Msgr. Barreiro has been the Executive Director of the Rome office of Human Life International. On 27 August 2010 he was appointed temporary president. About the presentation Study of the nature of human liberty against subjectivist and relativistic views of this fundamental value provides a liberty that does not have objective grounds of regulation, a negative liberty. This leads societies to speak of a "right to die". But is there a natural right to suicide? Is there a natural right to assist another commit suicide? In this presentation, a case was made that human persons and society do not have any right to commit suicide, or assist in suicide or to practice euthanasia. This analysis was based upon the theory of natural law. This rational approach is particularly important as secularisation advances in our societies. If we begin with right premises, and proceed with right reason, we could more confidently provide a proper reply to the questions: What is the sense of life? What is the sense of death? What is the sense of suffering? If we begin with the premise that we are not owners of our own lives, it is easy to understand the immoral nature of suicide. We can even demonstrate that to assist in the suicide of somebody else could represent a more serious action than suicide itself. The presenter also considered euthanasia as it relates to organ transplants. 15 KEYNOTE 12 – Parliamentary Committee on Palliative Compassionate Care Presented by: Joe Comartin MP (NDP) For a decade, Joe Comartin has brought dignity, civility and purpose to Parliament. Joe was the founding Director of the Windsor/Essex C.A.W. Legal Services Plan, the largest private sector legal defence fund in Canada. He led a wide variety of initiatives: affordable housing, environmental protection, accessible child care and pension protection. Twice recognised by colleagues as Canada s most knowledgeable MP, he s a veteran member of the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights and founding co-chair of the Committee on Palliative and Compassionate Care. About the presentation The Parliamentary Committee on Palliative and Compassionate Care ("PCPCC") is an ad-hoc Committee of the House of Commons dedicated to promoting awareness of, fostering substantive research and constructive dialogue on palliative and compassionate care in Canada. Inspired by broad consultations undertaken in every region of Canada by Members of all parties, PCPCC s work will culminate with a report urging specific policy action on a series of four distinct but related challenges: ® Palliative care; O Suicide prevention; ® Elder abuse; and ® Disability issues. The Committee s findings over the course of exhaustive research, discussion and consultation with the public will form the basis of a major report detailing the state of palliative and compassionate care in Canada and prescribing certain consensus policy remedies supportable by all parties. The final release date of the Committee s report is yet to be determined, but is anticipated to be mid-2011. During this presentation it was suggested that there are four key issues for the Canadian parliament to address: 1. There are gaps in palliative care. We must plan and build capacity to care for our growing elderly population. 2. Nearly 4000 Canadians die by suicide each year. Canada has not addressed this issue in a comprehensive and systematic way. 3. Elder abuse has been described as a silent epidemic in Canada. Political will is required to eradicate all forms of abuse against elderly Canadians. 4. The rights of persons with disabilities must be recognised and consolidated around the world. 16 KEYNOTE 13 — Inclusive humanity: framing the debate Presented by: Krista Flint and Rhonda Wiebe Krista is a Mum, an advocate, a writer, and a participant in the disability rights community. She has held management and executive positions in disability organisations, social marketing, employment and community development, and inclusive education organisations. With the Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors and the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists she created a value-neutral language bank to provide fair and balanced information about Down syndrome in pre and postnatal counselling. She has been published in both of Canada s national newspapers, and in the Canadian Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Krista is a graduate of the Wilberforce Program of the Manning Centre. As an active member of The Belonging Initiative, she works to eliminate isolation and loneliness of Canadians with developmental disabilities. She lives in Calgary, her husband Craig and three growing boys (Oliver, Simon and Charlie) are her greatest accomplishments. For more than two decades, Rhonda Wiebe has raised concerns about interactions between health care providers and people with disabilities. Her research with the Faculty of Medicine, U Manitoba investigated ethical frameworks for healthcare decision making for people with disabilities. A key focus of this work was the perceptions medical students hold about living with disability. Rhonda is currently a policy analyst with the Disabilities Issues Office of Manitoba. She is co-chair of the ending of life ethics committee for the Council of Canadians with Disabilities (CCD). All of her work is informed by the perspectives she has gained as a person who has lived with significant but invisible disabilities since the age of thirteen. About the presentation In press, electronic media, or through the advancements of internet marketing, too often the stories we hear about the experience of living with a disability are based on stereotypes steeped in pity rather than empowerment. The presenters examined historical and social constructs that surround living with disability. They proposed a multiple-narrative approach to sharing authentic experiences which contradict notions deeply held within society. The presenters asked, "Why do we think what we think?" The presentation looked at the importance of clear messages, particularly when discussing how citizens with disabilities intersect with the health care system, and how "medical scarcity" threatens persons with disabilities. Lastly, Kristy and Rhonda workshopped various tools and techniques that people can use to cut through the clutter and create meaningful, safe spaces for people to represent their own perspectives and tell their own stories. Practical and ideological, this presentation challenged past assumptions and celebrated the inclusion and meaningful participation of people with disabilities in the human family. 17 KEYNOTE 14— Maintaining our message Presented by: Margaret Dore, JD, MBA A fourth generation attorney and Seattle native, Margaret has been licensed to practice since 1986. Ms Dore is a former law clerk to Justice Vernon Pearson of the Washington State Supreme Court. She also served as law clerk to Judge John Petrich of the Washington State Court of Appeals. She worked one year with the United States Department of Justice, Office of the United States Trustee (bankruptcy practice). Ms Dore obtained her law degree from the University of Washington School of Law. She also holds an M.B.A. in Finance from the University of Washington School of Business; and a B.A. in Accounting from the University of Washington School of Business (Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa). Ms Dore is a member of the American Bar Association (ABA). She is a former Chair of the Elder Law Committee of the ABA Family Law Section. Ms Dore is also a member of the Washington State Bar Association, including Elder Law; Family Law; and Real Property Probate Trust Law. She is a member of the King County Bar Association. She is admitted to practice in the United States Supreme Court, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, the United States District Court of Western Washington and Washington State. About the presentation From her background of extensive legal experience, Ms Dore made the case that we could approach the public arena much like a lawyer would approach the courtroom. She spoke on the importance of planning the case very carefully, and remaining focused and disciplined as the case moves to the public arena. Lives depend upon it. There was a particular focus during the presentation on elder abuse as well as the uncertainty of terminal diagnosis. The presenter proffered the view that doctor prescribed suicide is a recipe for elder abuse. Participants were urged to look carefully at the definitions proposed for terminal illness. Notably the presenter warned of the establishment of "suicide parties" in jurisdictions where assisted suicide had been legalised. 18 KEYNOTE 15 — Strategy in Western Australia Presented by: Hon Nick Goiran MLC Hon Nick Goiran MLC is a Mernber of the Legislative Council representing the South Metropolitan Region in the current Western Australian Parliament. He has served two years of his Parliamentary term during which he has been and continues to be Chairman of the Joint Standing Committee on the Corruption and Crime Commission as well as being a Member of the Joint Standing Committee for the Commissioner for Children and Young People. Nick has focussed a lot of his research on projects which seek to rectify injustice and protect the vulnerable in Western Australia. Prior to entering Parliament, Nick was a barrister and solicitor in private practice. About the presentation On the 21st of September 2010, I rose before the Legislative Council of the Western Australian Parliament in opposition to the Voluntary Euthanasia Bill. My speech was the culmination of sixteen months of planning. Sixteen months of strategically working to ensure that the legislative decision makers; the other members of WA Parliament, were properly informed as to the gravity of the impact such legislation would have had on Western Australian society if passed. My presentation outlined the strategy that took place and how it unfolded amidst gross media misrepresentation and concerted pro voluntary euthanasia efforts. In particular my presentation encouraged the need for all people from all political persuasions to work collectively to improve the resourcing and knowledge of palliative care in local communities as well as ongoing efforts to prevent suicide. 19 KEYNOTE 16 — Planning our legal strategies Presented by: Hugh Scher Hugh Scher is a partner in the law firm of Scher De Angelis where he practices civil litigation and administrative law with a focus on insurance, employment, and human rights law especially in the area of disability rights. He served for six years as Chair of the Human Rights Committee of the Council of Canadians with Disabilities. He is Past-President of the Board of Directors of ARCH: A Legal Resource Centre for Persons with Disabilities. He is Past-Chair of InfoAbility, an information and referral service for vulnerable adults in Ontario. Mr Scher also serves as counsel to the National ME/FM Action Network and the Fibromyalgia Society of Ontario and has represented dozens of individuals with Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in disputes with long-term disability insurers, the Canada Pension Plan, employers and Revenue Canada. Mr Scher has participated in various Federal and Provincial Government Consultations on issues of social policy and disability rights and has presented briefs before numerous Federal and Provincial Government Committees on subjects including constitutional, transportation, criminal law, employment equity and human rights reform. Mr Scher has appeared on numerous television and radio broadcasts and has been quoted in newspapers across the country on matters relating to euthanasia, assisted suicide and the human rights of people with disabilities. Mr Scher is a frequent lecturer on disability issues at the Law Society of Upper Canada, York University, the University of Toronto and other organisations across Canada. He is also an instructor in the Public Law and Civil Litigation Sections of the Ontario Bar Admission Course. About the presentation Canada s laws on end-of-life issues are in a historically unprecedented state of change. Much of this change is determined, not by careful planning of legislators, but by the unpredictable nature of the cases that come before the courts. The precise details of the legal cases brought for and against Rodrigues, Scardoni, Genereaux, and Golubchuk have changed some features of Canadian law, and left others intact. Currently, the Rasouli case in Toronto, brings a new set of concerns. In addition, the Carter case and the Farewell Foundation case in British Columbia are bringing further challenges to Canada s laws on assisted suicide. Mr Scher provided an authoritative analysis of Canada s current legal situation, and the directions that it may possibly be going. 20 KEYNOTE 17 — Understanding the disability perspective Presented by: LaRee and Mark Pickup In 1984, Mark Pickup was diagnosed with degenerative multiple sclerosis. His journey through physical degeneration and serious disability has been the cause of profound trials and grief for both Mark and his wife, LaRee. Mark is now triplegic (only his left arm is fully functional) and he uses an electric wheelchair or scooter. Other people in similar situations have opted for assisted suicide. Mark and LaRee have become committed to the cause of life and defence of the vulnerable. For more than a decade Mark has spoken across the United States and Canada against euthanasia acceptance. He has addressed politicians and legislative committees (both Canadian and American), university forums, hospital medical staffs, religious and denominational leaders, community groups and organisations against euthanasia/assisted suicide acceptance. LaRee has movingly addressed grief and suffering associated with watching loved ones degenerate. About the presentation Mark and LaRee spoke about the role of our interdependent community as it plays out (or should play out) among people with chronic or terminal illness. Mark addressed the trials and grief experienced by persons facing degenerative neurological disease. Grief possesses its own dynamic. Left alone, it can consume hope, leaving only despair of life and a desire to die. In the face of this, Mark asked "What are the dynamics that can transform the human condition of the incurably ill and their need for interdependence and community?" LaRee addressed a second issue: "What is the dynamic that works within the circle of loved ones?" The person with the chronic illness, and their loved ones, can become like two solitudes. This can intensify the sense of isolation within families and their relationship for community. Even more than personal autonomy and control, the key to addressing the inevitable issues that arise from these solitudes is creating and maintaining a connection to others in the form of an interdependent community. 21 CONCLUSION This is the report of my attendance at the "Third International Symposium on Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide" conference which took place from 3 - 4 June 2011 at the Vancouver Airport Marriott Hotel in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada organised by the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition. The theme of the conference was "Celebrating our successes; preparing for new challenges". My attendance confirmed my initial research that it is a legally impossibility to protect against involuntary euthanasia once you legalise "voluntary" euthanasia. The notions of choice and autonomy cannot be authentically discussed in the absence of issues such as duress, undue influence and access to information and knowledge. Protecting citizens is core business for Parliament and this is especially the case for our most vulnerable citizens. Whilst there are a range of views in Australia about euthanasia, it should be noted that parliaments around the globe have consistently concluded that any weighing up of so-called rights must ultimately fall in favour of protecting its vulnerable members. For my part, this conference only reaffirms my view that it is unreasonable to suggest that so-called legislative safeguards can be codified to provide the desired protection beyond a reasonable doubt. Regardless of people s views on euthanasia a bi-partisan approach ought to be established with specific focus on: • Palliative care (not merely its resourcing but also education on its existence); • Dignity therapy; and • Suicide prevention. In particular, the upcoming report from the Canadian Parliamentary Committee on Palliative and Compassionate Care which will address palliative care, suicide prevention, elder abuse and disability services ought to be reviewed and considered in a West Australian context by the: 1. Minister for Health; 2. Minister for Mental Health and Disability Services; and 3. Minister for Seniors. Hon Nick Goiran MLC Member for the South Metropolitan Region 22 iember for Unit 4, 10 Cecil Ave CANNINGTON, WA 6107 PO Box 1171 CANNINGTON, WA 6987 Ph 08 9356 5011 Fax 08 9356 5077 Mr Peter Conron cannington@mp,wagov.au Director General Department of Premier and Cabinet Governor Stirling Tower 197 St Georges Terrace PERTH WA 000 Dear Mr Jonron RE: Imprest Travel I am writing to provide you with a report on my recent travel to Jakarta, Indonesia, in accordance with the approval previously granted to me by the Premier, Hon Colin Barnett. I flew to Jakarta, arriving very late on the night of Friday 17 June 2011. I held private meetings on Saturday 18 June 2011 in Jakarta, and I have not sought any allowances for this day. On Sunday 19 June 2011, I met with Mr B.A. Gani from the Lembaya Cegah Kejahetan Indonesia (LCKI) [The Indonesian Crime Prevention Foundation], who had facilitated my participation in the 3 rd ARCPF Conference. The 3rd ARCPF Conference then commenced on Monday 20 June 2011 and continued on Tuesday 21 June 2011 at the Hotel Borobudur, Jakarta. I have attached a copy of: o the Conference Papers o photograps taken at the conference opening ceremony o an extract from Hansard from Member's Satements of Thursday 23 June 2011 where I noted my attendance at the Conference. I was very pleased to be invited to participate in the Conference, and thank the organisers who included me as one of their "VVIP's". The conference in particular examined the issues of: o Asian Migrant Labourer protection • Combating Human trafficking Combating illicit drug trafficking The issue of migrant labourers is one I found very interesting. In Australia we have seen certain prominent people call for the use of 'guest workers'. To hear of the 3 million Indonesians working in Malaysia, and to be given an understanding of the issues involved with this was very informative. The Conference participants, who were drawn from nine out of the ten ASEAN countries, allowed me to gain an appreciation of crime prevention issues in many countries. In particular, I found the comments from the Singaporean delegates interesting in that they say "low crime does not mean no crime". In conclusion, I would particularly like to thank Mr B.A. Gani who facilitated my attendance at the Conference. In respect of the acquittals of my allowance, I enclose the receipt for my airfare and continue to claim for 2 nights accommodation, which means my advance of $1890.00 is balanced by my claim. I appreciate that the Premier believed this travel to be relevant to my duties as a Parliamentarian. If there are further issues that need to be dealt with by me, please call me at my office on 9356 5011. Yours sincerely Bill Johnston MLA Member for Cannington 13 September 2011 Following up the 2" d ARCPF Conference and Working Group Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and the 12th ACPF World Conference on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia 2009 and in keeping with agreements harmony between the ASEAN countries, the development objectives of migrant laborers is a serious agenda for reducing poverty and improving living standards that has been professed by the leaders of ASEAN countries at the 12 th ASEAN Summit in Cebu, Philippine in 2007. Problems of migrant laborers, is a very important part in achieving the joint goals, regarding their welfare and protection from crime, especially protection from the arena of human trafficking and the circulation of Narcotics. In connection with this matter, it will need a recommendation to the heads of ASEAN countries as one of the reference material to create a strategic policy in protecting and combating crimes against "migrant laborers" and the fight against human trafficking and circulation of narcotics in the ASEAN Region. To get that recommendation, "the ASEAN Region Crime Prevention Foundation" (ARCPF), as an NGO on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice which consists of all NGO s Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in the ASEAN intends to hold "The 3 rd ARCPF International Conference on ASEAN Migrant Laborers Protection and Combating Human Trafficking as well as illicit Drug Trafficking." The 3 rd Conference of the ASEAN Region Crime Prevention Foundation will be attended by all members of ASEAN Crime Prevention, NGO s plus Asia Crime Prevention Foundation (ACPF) and will feature speakers from embassies in ASEAN countries, NGO leaders and law enforcement. To get a larger meaning and fully supported, the Conference is expected to be opened by the Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia H.E. Prof. Dr. Boediono, M.Ec. 1. Securing the rights and protection of migrant laborers. 2. Developing welfare and assurance for migrant laborers. 3. Action step on combating Human Trafficking. 4. Action step on combating Illicit drug trafficking. 07:30 – 08:30 Registration Flores Grand Ballroom, 1st Floor Borobudur Hotel, Jakarta, Indonesia 08:30 – 09.00 Depart to the Vice Presidential Palace 09:00 – 11:00 Opening Reception Assembly for the Grand Opening at the Vice Presidential Palace, Jakarta, Indonesia H.E. Del Bachtiar Report from the Chairperson of Organizing Committee H.E. Prof. Dr. Boediono, M.Ec Keynote Speaker by the Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia and Opening the 3rd ARCPF Conference. Photo session with the Vice President 11:00 –11.20 Leaving Vice Presidential Palace toward Borobudur Hotel for the Conference Session 11:20 –11:30 Opening Exhibition by H.E. Da i Bachtiar, Chairman of ASEAN Region Crime Prevention Foundation (ARCPF), 11:30 – 12.30 Buffet Lunch Flores Grand Ballroom, Borobudur Hotel, JI. Lapangan Banteng, Central Jakarta 12:30 –12:45 Opening MC Video Presentation and Art Performing of the rich of Indonesian Cultures 12:45 –13:00 Welcoming Remarks Dato Eddy Chen Lok Loi, Vice Chairperson, ASEAN Region Crime Prevention Foundation (Exco Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation) 13:00 –13:15 DRS H. A. MUHAIMIN !Si:AM:AR, MS/ Minister of Manpower and Transmigration of the Republic of Indonesia "Key Steps Toward Achieving Professional Migrant Laborers in ASEAN" 13:15 –13:30 LINDA AMALIA SARI GUMELAR, Sip Minister of State of Women Empowerment and Child Protection of Republic of Indonesia "Indonesia experiences in Combating Human Trafficking especially on Women and Children" 13:30 –13:45 POLICE COFVi. GEN. DRS. GORIES MERE Chairman of National Narcotics Board of the Republic of Indonesia "ASEAN Strategy in Combating Illicit Drug Trafficking" 13:45 – 14:00 POLICE COM. GEN. Dr. ITO SUMARDI. DS, SF-1., MH., MBA., MM Chief of Criminal Investigation Body of the Indonesian National Police "INP Roles and Policies on Migrant Laborers Protection and Combating Human Trafficking and Illicit Drug Trafficking" 14:00 – 14:30 Coffee Break 14:30 — 16:15 Pane/ 1: "ASEAN ROLES AND POLICIES ON MIGRANT LABORERS PROTECTION AND COMBATING HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND ILLICIT DRUG TRAFFICKING" MODERATOR DR. ONI B. BINTORO Researcher at Indonesia Ministry of Research and Technology, Chairman of National Executive Committee of Indonesia Civil Service Union and Adjunct Lecturer at Institute of Technology Bandung. PANELLISTS MR. PETER VAN RODU Director, International Labor Organization (ILO) H.E. SURIN PITSUWAN Secretary General of ASEAN MR. GARY LEWIS UNODC Regional Representative, Regional Centre for East Asia and the Pacific 16:15 —17:45 Panel 2: "SECURING THE RIGHTS OF MIGRANT LABORERS AND PROTECTING FROM INVOLVEMENT ON HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND ILLICIT DRUG TRAFFICKING" MODERATOR DR. IMAM B. PRASODJO Chairman of Nurani Dunia Foundation, Sociologist and Lecturer at University of Indonesia. PANELLISTS MR. H. KRH. HENRY YOSODININGRAT Chairman of Gerakan Nasional Anti Narkotika (GRANAT) MR. MOH. JUMHUR HIDAYAT Chairman of National Indonesian Workers Placement and Protection Agency MS. ANIS H!DAYAH Executive Director of Migrant Care H.E. MR. DRS. GATOT ABDULLAH MANSYUR SIRNAGALIFI Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia for Kingdom of Saudi Arabia H.E. DATO SYED IVIUNSHE AFDZARUDDIN BIN SHED HASSAN Ambassador of the Kingdom of Malaysia for Indonesia 17:45 — 17:55 CONFERENCE SUMMARY DR. ONI B. BINTORO 17:55 —18:15 CLOSING DR. H.R. AGUNG LAKSONO Coordinating Minister of People Welfare of the Republic of Indonesia 18:15 — 19.30 BREAK TIME 19:30 — 21:00 DINNER RECEPTION Flores Grand Ballroom, Borobudur Hotel, Jakarta Timor Room, Borobudur Hotel, Jakarta M[GRANT LABORERS PROTECTION: The ASEAN Region s workforce is notoriously fluid, as labor migrants follow an often undetermined path towards paid employment, sometimes crossing into another nation to do so. As laborers cross international and international borders and enter lands with unfamiliar rules and customs, their awareness of their legal status, their rights, and their ability to access networks to protect available rights are greatly diminished. Thus, the rights and networks of migrant laborers are often less fluid than their movement, leaving workers vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. COMBAIGNG HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND HIJCIT DRUG TRAFFICKING: Every year, hundreds of thousands of women, children, and men fall prey to human trafficking and illicit drug trafficking in the ASEAN region, with a majority suffering from physical and sexual exploitation. Victims are often limited in their ability to access recourse to justice because of the restrictions imposed by their traffickers and drug smugglers. Addressing trafficking and illicit drug trafficking in the ASEAN region requires a multi-faceted approach that raises awareness of the threat of trafficking and illicit drug trafficking, allows victims to seek redress, and expands training for government officials, especially police and security forces. Thus, tackling the complex issue of trafficking and illicit drug trafficking will require multidisciplinary collaboration between the public and private sectors and non-government organizations. 08:00 – 08:30 Opening Remarks H.E. Bachtiar Chairperson of ASEAN Region Crime Prevention Foundation 08:30 — 10:30 SECURING THE RIGHTS OF MIGRANT LABORERS THE PROTECTION FROM SUFFERING PHYSICAL AND SEXUAL EXPLOITATION MODERATOR : SANTI D. SARINO PANELISTS : 1. Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF) 2. Indonesia Crime Prevention Foundation (ICPF) 3. Asia Crime Prevention Philippines Inc. (ACPPI) 4. National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) Singapore 5. Ministry of Justice and Public Security, Vietnam 6. International Society of Crime Prevention Practitioners (ISCPP) 7. National Indonesian Workers Placement and Protection Agency 10:30 — 12:00 COMBATING HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND ILLICIT DRUG TRAFFICKING MODERATOR : BA GANI PANELISTS : 1. Asia Crime Prevention Foundation (ACPF), Thailand 2. Royal Brunei Darussalam Police, Brunei 3. Ministry of Justice, Kingdom of Cambodia 4. Public Prosecutor General s Office LAO P.D.R. 5. Anti-narcotic Task Force of Myanmar Police Force, Myanmar 6. International Society of Crime Prevention Practitioners (ISCPP) 7. National Narcotics Board, Republic of Indonesia 8. Criminal Investigation Body of the Indonesian National Police 12:00 — 12:15 Jakarta Declaration on Protecting of Migrant Laborers and Combating Human Trafficking as well as illicit Drug Trafficking in ASEAN Region 12:15 — 12:30 Closing 12:30 —13.00 Photo Session, Press Conference and Lunch Reception ‘.7"2,"t!?F;J11 woy [email protected] : Hew tE SSS ZOT ST8 Z9+ aucqd oj LlelitrmseN : aweN woo . 00geAdqemewJous : 69S 8881 88L8 Z9+ aucald @HcMAI .re.SaJos LieHoeui.ioN : GUI2N woo .00gen@p2sueimues : HEw3 009 tZZS 88L8 Z9+ 1101-1c3 aNcloVJ cup pes•2ic Rues : augeN `[email protected] : PW] E9L 668 1118 Z9+ auoqd eHclow LL9Z 06E -CZ Z9+ eHwis:ej LL9Z 06E -CZ Z9+ auolld !LIED V aweN uosJed :pewc:o E7seuopt.4 - 05601 4resnd 24..121er 6 • REA upweq •H IN sedol 52.32a.layq (iND1) E]sauopiq ualstiETsN 4e2e3 2Eaqwei (:101) uoppuno,i uopmeAaJd ewpo elsaLlopuj (dcmv) LIC12,2puno uopueile:Id awpo uo!Bez; NV2SV Official Opening, Palace of the Vice President of Indonesia Being greeted by the Vice President of Indonesia, Official Opening, Private Reception, Palace of the Vice President of Indonesia Official Opening, Private Reception, Palace of the Vice President of Indonesia Extract from Hansard [ASSEMBLY — Thursday, 23 June 2011] p4793c-4793c Mr Bill Johnston THIRD ASEAN REGION CRIME PREVENTION FOUNDATION INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE Statement by Member for Cannington MR W.J. JOHNSTON (Cannington) [12.52 pm]: I rise today to make comments about the third ASEAN Region Crime Prevention Foundation International Conference on ASEAN Migrant Labourers Protection and Combating Human Trafficking as well as Illicit Drug Trafficking, which I attended in Jakarta, Indonesia, on Monday and Tuesday this week. This was a very interesting conference, with delegates from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, Laos and Cambodia, at which they debated ways of reducing human trafficking and illicit drug trafficking. It was very interesting to hear from so many people from these countries where there are severe problems with migrant labour, in that migrants moving from one country to another are not properly protected. The plan that the delegates agreed on in a joint statement from the heads of the delegation at the conference sets out an agenda for countries and non-government organisations in the Association of South East Asian Nations to combat these severe problems. I thank Ambassador Tan Sri Da i Bachtiar, chairman of the ASEAN Region Crime Prevention Foundation; and Dato Eddy Chen Lok Lai, vice- chairman. I particularly thank Pak Gani from the Indonesian Crime Prevention Foundation who facilitated my participation in the conference. 11] Johnston, From: Garuda Indonesia Reservations Dear Mr Johnston, Thank you for choosing Garuda Indonesia. We are pleased to confirm the following travel itinerary as requested by you : GAR U DA INDONES IA ** * OUR REFERENCE: QZ7V7D PARTICIPANT: 1JOHNSTON/WILLIAMMR DEPARTURE: PERTH GA 729 FR 17.JUN.11 17:00 ARRIVAL: DENPASAR 20:40 CLASS: ECONOMY STATUS: OK/CONFIRM DEPARTURE: DENPASAR GA 421 FR 17.JUN.11 22:35 ARRIVAL: JAKARTA 23:20 CLASS: ECONOMY STATUS: OK/CONFIRM DEPARTURE: JAKARTA GA 412 TU 21.JUN.11 17:15 ARRIVAL: DENPASAR 20:00 CLASS: ECONOMY STATUS: OK/CONFIRM DEPARTURE: DENPASAR GA 728 TU 21.JUN.11 21:35 ARRIVAL: PERTH WE 22.JUN.11 01:15 CLASS: ECONOMY STATUS: OK/CONFIRM Cost Per Adult — AUD1090.00 inclusive Australian Taxes PLEASE CONFIRM NAMES ARE SPELT CORRECTLY AS PER PASSPORTS Once a ticket is issued names cannot be changed. Changes to correct the spelling of a name would require the ticket to be refunded for a fee of AUD125.00 and a new ticket purchased under the correct spelling PASSPORTS REQUIRE MINIMUM 6MTS VALIDITY FROM DATE OF DEPARTURE Australian Passport holders require a Visa for entry to Indonesia. Visa on Arrival (VOA) can be paid at Jakarta/Denpasar Airports - USD25 for up to 30days. Passport must have 1 spare blank page for visa issue. One way ticket holders may be asked to provide a return ticket or proof of enough funds to allow the purchase of a ticket back to Australia. For stays longer than 30 days a visa would need to be arranged prior to departure with the Indonesian Consulate. All other passport holders should check their visa requirements with your local Garuda Office or the Indonesian Consulate. 1