Issue No. 07/2009 Bulletin

INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUE NO. 07/2009 22 April 2009

Information Bulletin Issue No. 07/2009

Inside this Issue WA Local Government Association (WALGA) News Â Correspondence & Issue No.14.09 – 14 April 2009 ...... COR-1 Â Issue No.15.09 – 20 April 2009 ...... COR-3 Papers Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) News Pink Divider 9 April 2009 ...... COR-5 7 April 2009 ...... COR-18

Employee Movements...... HR-1 Â Information from Human Resources Blue Divider

Information to Standing Committees

Â City Strategy Nil Lilac Divider

Â Development Nil Services Yellow Divider

Outstanding Matters Technical Services Report on Outstanding Matters – Technical Services Committee...... T-1 Green Divider Monthly / Quarterly Departmental Reports Technical Services Works Programme ...... T-2 Miscellaneous The PLAcard – National Newsletter...... T-7 Letter from MRWA – Bridge 4412A – Lady McNess Drive ...... T-8 Municipal Waste Advisory Council Information Bulletin...... T-9

Outstanding Matters Community Report on Outstanding Matters – Community Services Committee...... C-1 Monthly / Quarterly Departmental Reports Services Library & Heritage Services General Monthly Report – March 2009...... C-2 Beige Divider Manager Ranger & Emergency Services Monthly Report – March 2009 ...... C-7 Minutes of Occasional/Advisory Committees Armadale Highland Gathering Working Group – 24 March 2009 ...... C-17/“CA-3”-23 Disability Advisory Committee – 7 April 2009...... C-17/“CA-4”-26

Issue 07 – 22 April 2009 Information Bulletin Page Cor-1 Correspondence & Papers

Information Bulletin Page Cor-2 Correspondence & Papers

Information Bulletin Page Cor-3 Correspondence & Papers

Information Bulletin Page Cor-4 Correspondence & Papers

Information Bulletin Page Cor-5 Correspondence & Papers

ALGA NEWSLETTER – 9 April 2009

Local government welcomes NBN expansion

The Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) has welcomed the Rudd Government's announcement that it will build a significantly expanded National Broadband Network (NBN).

ALGA President Cr Geoff Lake said, "Today's announcement is great news for local communities given the vital role broadband will play in the competitiveness of regions.

"The Government's promise to provide access to affordable fast broadband to every house, school and business in Australia is to be applauded. The delivery of fibre direct to 90% of Australian homes and the planned investment in wireless and satellite technology for all other Australians will allow local communities to realise enormous economic and social opportunities.

"Local communities have waited too long for adequate broadband services and we are delighted with today's decision to invest such significant sums in expanding Australia's productive capacity and educational frontiers.

"We also welcome the Government's announcement that it will mandate fibre to the home in all new greenfield developments. Councils have been advocating for this initiative for some time and it's pleasing the Government will now give fast broadband a similar priority to other utility services in planning new housing estates."

However Cr Lake has warned that the roll-out of the $43 billion infrastructure is of an unprecedented scale and has urged the Government to work with local government to ensure that the interests of the 21 million residents living throughout Australia are taken into account.

"The roll-out of the NBN infrastructure will involve laying overhead cables and cutting up roads, footpaths and nature strips", Cr Lake said.

"Local government recognises that a project of this scale requires an expedited delivery model. However, a fast broadband network completed by 2017 and sensitivity to local community interests are not mutually exclusive. Councils stand ready and willing to help deliver this ambitious nation building program."

ALGA has been a long standing proponent of the NBN. In ALGA's State of the Regions report released last year, National Economics estimated that the opportunity cost in 2008-09 of Australia's inadequate broadband infrastructure was $3.2 billion and resulted in a loss of about 33,000 jobs. Information Bulletin Page Cor-6 Correspondence & Papers

Councils concerned at waste elements of CPRS

The Australian Local Government Association has released a briefing paper on the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme legislation to assist councils that wish to make a submission to the Federal Government on the impact of the scheme on local government and communities. Submissions close on April 14.

The Briefing paper, by Deacons consultancy, was commissioned by ALGA and State and Territory Local Government Associations.

"Whilst we are pleased that ALGA's concerns on threshold issues and retrospectivity of council-owned dumps have been considered, we believe there are still some problems that need to be ironed out," ALGA President Cr Geoff Lake said. "For example, the CPRS legislation currently proposes that the threshold of 25,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions may be reduced to 10,000 tonnes in certain circumstances. This is going to force up the costs of waste disposal and will only have marginal if any impact on greenhouse gas emissions."

Cr Lake said that councils would also experience increased costs for electricity and fuel, and any emissions-intensive goods and services. The brunt of these costs would be borne by atepayers.

"Local government supports the Government's intention to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but has expressed concerns about the inclusion of waste facilities in the initial phase of the CPRS. Professor Garnaut's report makes it clear that the early inclusion of emissions from waste dumps would be problematic due to the variability of these emissions and the timing of their release. The report recommends that before being covered by the scheme, other policies to encourage mitigation in the waste sector should be pursued."

Cr Lake said that ALGA had written to the Minister for Climate Change and Water, Senator Penny Wong, outlining why inclusion of the waste sector in the initial phase of the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) would be 'complex and costly' for local government.

"ALGA's view is that the sector, including local government, should continue to work with the Australian Government on a number of outstanding technical issues which need to be resolved before waste is included in the CPRS," Cr Lake said.

The issues could be summarised as:

• the absence of accurate and affordable measurement of methane; • the absence of a grandfathering clause which means that ratepayers will have to pay for waste produced 20 years ago; and • unintended consequences resulting from the establishment of a low threshold such as providing an unfair advantage to larger landfill operators with little or no effect on emissions reduction.

The Deacons' Briefing paper on the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme Bill 2009 and associated legislation is on the ALGA website. Information Bulletin Page Cor-7 Correspondence & Papers

Tidy Towns finalists

The national finalists in the Keep Australia Beautiful, Australian Tidy Towns Awards have been announced and will now compete to become Australia's Tidiest Town 2009.

The iconic Tidy Towns program commenced in 1969 in WA with Bunbury the first ever winner. The awards identify, acknowledge and promote Australia's best examples of sustainable communities in regional and rural areas across Australia.

In 2009 the national Tidy Towns finalists are:

• NT: Atitjere (Harts Range), 250km north east of Alice Springs, pop 220 - pictured, winners of the 2008 Territory Tidy Towns award • WA: Kambalda, 620km east of Perth, birth of Nickel mining in Australia, pop 4,200 • SA: Stansbury, 210km from Adelaide on the Yorke Peninsula, pop 450 • TAS: Oatlands, 80km north of Hobart, features Georgian architecture, pop 800 • VIC: Horsham, Western Victoria, Wimmera Region, pop 13,500 • NSW: Tamworth, 400km north west of Sydney, Country Music Capital, pop 36,000 • QLD: Caloundra, Sunshine Coast, seaside escape, pop 41,000

The national awards presentation will take place on Friday 8 May, hosted by the Governor General at Government House, Yarralumla in Canberra. Registrations close 15 April. For further information or to attend the Australian Tidy Towns Award presentation visit www.kab.org.au/tidytowns

From the President

Local Government Minister Anthony Albanese has advised ALGA that funding agreements for the initial $250 million in community infrastructure payments to councils have now been provided by the Government to almost all councils. Once this documentation has been returned, money can flow quickly and directly to councils. I urge those councils which have received agreements but have not yet signed and returned them to do so as soon as possible so funding can flow to your council. We are advised that more than half of the $250 million has already been transferred to councils who have returned their documentation.

The Minister has also advised that the Government is currently assessing the applications for the remaining $550 million in funding for strategic projects. Councils have applied for a combined total of more than $2 billion of funding. He indicated that he expected to be in a position to announce the successful projects to be funded within one month.

On a different note, and as many Australians prepare to go away for the Easter period, it is worth remembering that Easter is one of the most deadly times on our roads. This time of year serves as a grim reminder to all of us of how important upgrades to road safety are across the Australian road network. It is therefore pleasing to see that the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development Information Bulletin Page Cor-8 Correspondence & Papers and Local Government, Anthony Albanese has just announced the projects to be funded under the recently expanded Road Safety Black Spot Program.

Funding for the Road Safety Black Spot Program for 2008-09 was more than doubled as part of the $4.7 billion Nation Building Package announced on 12 December by the Government - an increase from $50 million to $110 million. A significant part of this funding will help councils deliver important road safety improvements on local roads.

The Government also announced as part of its February stimulus package that it will allocate an additional $30 million in 2008-09 and $60 million in 2009-10 to extend even further the coverage of the Black Spot Program.

These are particularly welcome additions to the Program given that the Australian National Audit Office, in its review of the program last year, found that there remain important road safety projects that should be funded.

A study by the former Bureau of Transport and Regional Economics (BTRE) found that there is strong evidence that the Program has achieved its aim of improving safety at locations with a history of crashes involving death and or serious injury. The study found that the much smaller Black Spot Program that existed between 1996-97 and 1998-99 saved an estimated 32 lives. This total will now be significantly higher.

It is a sobering thought that the national Easter road toll is likely to exceed that number. Road safety is an issue for everyone in the community. I wish all of you a very safe and enjoyable Easter break.

Cr Geoff Lake ALGA President

Flood assistance

Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, has announced that the Commonwealth Government will provide financial assistance to communities recently affected by heavy rainfall and flooding in the Sunshine Coast and Gympie regions of South-East Queensland communities on the New South Wales mid-north coast.

Commonwealth assistance is being provided to the Queensland Government through the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).

"The Commonwealth Government will continue to work with the Queensland Government, local government and community organisations to support those that have been affected," Mr McClelland said.

Funding will include assistance for the restoration of essential public infrastructure and relief operations, as well as personal hardship and distress assistance, inclusing road and rail freight subsidies of up to $15,000 for NSW to assist primary producers for the carriage of livestock and fodder The maximum subsidy available is $15,000 per annum. Information Bulletin Page Cor-9 Correspondence & Papers

Bushfire relief package

Victorian Premier John Brumby and Chair of the Victorian Bushfire Appeal fund John Landy have announced a $9 million dollar assistance package to local councils affected by the 2009 bushfires.

Mr Brumby said the Advisory Panel had made the decision to provide assistance to local councils who had played a significant role in guiding the recovery of local communities.

"This 9 million assistance package recognises that local governments are often best placed to identify what disaster-related services are needed in their local community and to continue to deliver these services over the long term," Mr Brumby said.

The Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction and Recovery Authority (VBBRA) headed by Christine Nixon will have oversight of this payment in consultation with Local Government Victoria. The Authority is working closely with all shire councils affected by the bushfires and will ensure that proposals nominated by shire councils will benefit people and families directly affected by the devastation. Funding priority will be given to those shires and councils most severely affected by the bushfires.

To find out information about all the grants allocated by the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund those people directly affected by the bushfires need to call the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund Hotline on 1800 180 213.

Far North Qld infrastructure

Community infrastructure in Far North Queensland is in the spotlight with funding for more than $2 million for ready-to-go infrastructure projects. Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Development and Northern Australia, Gary Gray, took to the road from Cairns through Karumba to Normanton this week to take a closer look at infrastructure in the Far North.

Mr Gray said it was important to get a real understanding of the infrastructure issues facing regional and remote communities such as these.

Mayors "break bread" for Passover

120 mayors, councillors and leaders of local government from across NSW gathered at a unique Passover dinner this week.

Local Government Minister Barbara Perry was guest of honour at the unprecedented event, which was held in Randwick Town Hall on April 1. Minister Perry spoke of the Government's commitment to community building and equitable representation of local communities on councils.

Organised by the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, the Local Government Passover Dinner included the Mayors of North Sydney, Ryde, Kogarah, Gosford, Shoalhaven, Liverpool, Leichhardt, Waverley, Randwick, Woollahra and Botany Bay. Information Bulletin Page Cor-10 Correspondence & Papers

Other guests included Shadow Special Minister of State Chris Hartcher, Local Government and Shires Association President Genia McCaffery, who is also Mayor of North Sydney, and Stepan Kerkyasharian, Chair of the Community Relations Commission.

Guests enjoyed an evening of discussion, ritual, music and dancing as they participated in a contemporary celebration of the Jewish festival of Passover. The function featured personal stories of freedom by Elias Farah from the Australian Federal Police; Dai Le, Community Relations Co-ordinator for the NSW Liberal Party; and Holocaust survivor Olga Horak.

MobileMuster awards

MobileMuster, the official recycling program of the mobile phone industry, is calling on local councils who have helped promote and collect mobile phones for recycling to enter the 2009 MobileMuster Local Government Awards.

The awards, now in their third year, aim to recognise and celebrate the outstanding efforts by local councils in promoting and collecting mobile phones, batteries, chargers and accessories for recycling.

The five winning councils will be announced during the Australian Local Government Association Conference (ALGA), which will be held at the National Convention Centre in Canberra from 21 June - 24 June.

Rose Read, Manager of Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association's (AMTA) official recycling program, MobileMuster, encourages councils to nominate their efforts in three of the five categories, including Best Promoter, Working with Schools, Top Recycler (Overall and Per Capita) and the National Excellence Award. Councils can register for the Best Promoter, Working with Schools and National Excellence categories.

Nominations are open until Tuesday 9 June 2009. For more information or to nominate your council, visit www.mobilemuster.com.au or call 1300 730070.

Don't waste consultation!

At the 17th meeting of the Environment Protection and Heritage Council held in Adelaide on Tuesday, Australian environment ministers agreed to the development of a national waste policy to provide a coherent, efficient and environmentally responsible approach to waste management in Australia. This week the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts released a National Waste Policy Consultation Paper. This is an opportunity for stakeholders to contribute their ideas, insights, views and knowledge to help shape the development of a national waste policy. Public consultation sessions will be held from 21 April to 1 May 2009 in each capital city, as well as Townsville, Kalgoorlie and Wagga Wagga. Readers of ALGA News should subscribe to the online E-news updates to receive automatic updates on venue locations for public meetings and other relevant information regarding the development of the national waste policy. For planning purposes the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts request that interested parties pre- Information Bulletin Page Cor-11 Correspondence & Papers register to attend attendance public consultation meeting by emailing [email protected].

ALGA hosts Austroads meeting

ALGA hosted the 47th Austroads Council meeting at the Rydges Capital Hill Hotel on 2 April.

ALGA is member of Austroads which is the association of Australian and New Zealand road transport and traffic authorities and has the aim of promoting improved road transport outcomes.

ALGA was represented by Chief Executive Officer Adrian Beresford-Wylie.

The Council meeting is part of a regular administrative and policy setting arrangements of Austroads. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including strategic directions of transport in Australia, and internal Austroads administrative and legal arrangements.

The Austroads Council also received progress reports from each of the research programs being funded by Austroads.

The Council also received reports from ALGA on developments in local government. The ALGA report covered the election of the new Austroads president, the inaugural Australia Council of local government, the benefits to councils of the economic stimulus package, the Constitutional Convention held in December, the upcoming National General Assembly and the ALGA request to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Anthony Albanese, to amend the provisions of Roads to Recovery to allow greater flexibility in the use of the funds.

Through ALGA's membership of Austroads all councils have access to all the technical and research publications produced by Austroads. More details can found at the Austroads website.

Premises standards

The House of Representatives Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee held a roundtable in Melbourne this week with key organisations as part of its inquiry into the draft Premises Standards. Four key organisations appeared at the roundtable: the Attorney-General's Department, the Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, the Australian Building Codes Board and the Australian Human Rights Commission.

The Committee has received over 120 submissions and has held six public hearings. Some of the reoccurring concerns include: the exclusion of Class 2 buildings, typically apartment blocks, from the scope of the Standards; the appropriateness of the small building exemption; the unjustifiable hardship provision, the use of access panels, and in particular, whether their decisions should be binding; the absence of emergency egress provisions; and, the scope, criteria and timing of the proposed review process. Information Bulletin Page Cor-12 Correspondence & Papers

ALGA has prepared a submission and a copy is now available at ALGA's website under 'submissions.'

Litter reduction campaign

A program funded by the Packaging Stewardship Forum (PSF) of the Australian Food and Grocery Council, has seen forty local governments and communities receive thousands of free rubbish and recycling bin stickers and posters as well as more than 380 roadside signs ready for installation, all carrying the well known anti-litter message of Do the Right Thing.

PSF General Manager, Jenny Pickles, said that it was important to support communities at a local level. "The aim of this program is to support and encourage the great work that communities are doing, or plan to do, throughout Australia to reduce litter and increase recycling locally."

The PSF received application forms from all over Australia, with more than one quarter coming from remote and indigenous communities in the Northern Territory and rural areas in Queensland.

The Do the Right Thing program has been running in Australia for nearly 30 years with 81 per cent of Australians recognising the message as meaning put your rubbish in the bin. Through the implementation of this new signage program, the total number of Australian communities now using the Do the Right Thing message will be brought up to nearly 300.

Further information: Alicia Hewitt on (02) 6270 9018

Jobs Fund

A new $650 million Jobs Fund announced by the Federal Government will support local jobs, build skills and improve facilities in local communities.

The new Jobs Fund is part of the Rudd Government's Jobs and Training Compact with Australians who have been hit hardest by the global recession, and builds on the Rudd Government's $42 billion Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan.

The Jobs Fund includes three streams:

• $300 million for Local Jobs to invest in community projects of up to $2 million that help protect the environment or promote sustainability and will include $60 million for community heritage projects, and $40 million for commuter bike paths. • $200 million to Get Communities Working which will invest in local council and not-for-profit projects of up to $2 million to upgrade vital community facilities and build community capacity. • $150 million for Infrastructure Employment Projects to be initiated by the Australian Government for the construction of local infrastructure that will create immediate jobs in communities affected by the global economic downturn. Information Bulletin Page Cor-13 Correspondence & Papers

Projects will encourage local government, community organisations, employers and employment service providers to work together to give people employment or training opportunities in their local area.

Most projects will commence from 1 July 2009 with submissions sought from May. Some heritage projects in the Local Jobs stream will commence sooner.

The Jobs Fund includes the commitments made by the Government as part of the Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan.

The Federal Government will also appoint Local Employment Co-ordinators to marshal training, infrastructure and Jobs Fund investments to maximise job opportunities in seven local communities hit hardest by the effects of the global recession.

The Government is providing $20.8 million for the Local Employment Co-ordinators to work in regions and communities affected by higher unemployment and job losses.

Local Employment Co-ordinators will work with employers and not-for-profit organisations to identify new job opportunities and will help match the employment and training needs of local communities with available Commonwealth services and funding.

They will work in seven initial areas:

• Canterbury Bankstown and South Western Sydney • The Illawarra, south of Sydney • Ipswich - Logan in Queensland • Northern and Western Adelaide • South Eastern Melbourne • South West Perth • Northern Tasmania

Rate pegging

NSW local councils are bracing for a rough financial year with the State Government announcing a 3.5% limit on rate increases for 2009/10.

With the cost shifting burden exceeding $400M in recent years, the infrastructure backlog in NSW is becoming the elephant in the room that the State Government refuses to acknowledge.

President of the Local Government Association Cr Genia McCaffery said constant cost shifting from the State Government meant that Local Government was expected to foot more and more of the bill for sustaining their communities, without an equitable increase in income.

President of the Shires Association Cr Bruce Miller said that while the State Government has indicated a willingness to look at the issue of rate pegging, it is time for some real action. Information Bulletin Page Cor-14 Correspondence & Papers

Quote of the week "The provision of an equitable broadband service across all of Australia remains an important goal" - National Economics' State of the Regions Report 2008-09 commissioned by ALGA International news

South Korea has set up a network of 140 'tough love' rehabilitation centres in a bid to curb the growth of internet addiction among the country's teenaged population. Nearly a third of children in the world's most web-savvy country are thought to be at risk, many of them playing truant to get their daily dose of 'PC Bang', the street corner internet cafés that have sprung up in recent years.

The rehabilitation centres employ a carrot and stick approach, combining counselling workshops in pottery and drumming with the discipline of a military boot camp.

'Patients' are banned from all internet use and allowed no more than one hour per day on their mobile phones.

"Korea has been most aggressive in embracing the internet. Now we have to lead in dealing with its consequences," Koh Young-sam, head of the Jump Up Internet Rescue School, told The New York Times.

Industry experts fear that web addiction could spread beyond South Korea to neighbouring China, the world's second largest internet market after the US.

In September, a man from the southern Chinese province of Guangdong reportedly died after a non-stop, three-day online gaming session. (Source: vnunet.com).

Melbourne Planning Summit Tuesday 28th - Wednesday 29th April Location: Zinc @ Federation Square, Melbourne

The Summit will provide an opportunity for discussion and review of latest developments in urban planning in Melbourne, focused on the new Melbourne @ 5 million urban growth planning updates. It will draw lessons from Australia-wide planning experiences. The conference will cover issues including:

• The new Victorian transport strategy; • Lessons learnt from the Melbourne 2030 Audit; • Financing urban services and infrastructure; • Planning for population growth; • Planning for an ageing population;

It will feature sessions on innovative urban partnerships and planning best practice case studies. Speakers include:

• Justin Madden, Minister for Planning • Jim Betts, Secretary, Department of Transport • Prue Digby, Deputy Secretary, Victorian Department of Planning and Community Development • Liz Johnstone, Manager, Planning Policy & Projects, MAV • Cr Paul Klisaris, Mayor, City of Monash • David Keenan, Director, City Sustainability, Hume City Council Information Bulletin Page Cor-15 Correspondence & Papers

• David Mayes, Manager Strategic Planning and Sustainability, City of Melbourne • Alan Cadogan, Executive Manager, City Strategy, City of Sydney • Kerry Doss, Manager, City Planning, Brisbane City Council

Further details about the Summit, including the full program, are available at www.halledit.com.au/mps or contact Denise McQueen on 03 8534 5021 or Email [email protected]

NSW Sustainable Development Conference Tuesday 12 - Wednesday 13 May 2009 Dockside Convention Centre, Sydney

The NSW Sustainable Development Conference 2009 will bring together decision- makers from the private and public sectors, industry leaders, local government, scientists, conservationists and others to discuss the current and future directions and frameworks for sustainability in NSW, and how it will affect NSW state and local government, business and the community.

The Conference, to be held on May 12 and 13, and featuring over 30 speakers, will provide a timely opportunity to examine progress towards sustainable objectives in a range of key areas such as: NSW policy and progress, water, waste and resource recovery, energy efficiency, climate change response and planning and urban design.

The Conference will also feature best practice case studies in sustainable development, including supporting workplaces to become more sustainable, addressing challenges of sustainability, and provide advice on how state and local government and business can achieve their sustainable development goals.

Confirmed and invited speakers include: The Hon Philip Costa, NSW Minister for Water; Rob Freeman, Executive Director, Murray-Darling Basin Authority ; Paul Bainton, Director, National Waste Taskforce; John Hudson, Director, Sustainable Systems, NSW Department of Planning ; Zoe De Saram, Acting Director, Climate Change Policy, Department of Environment and Climate Change and David Hemming, Manager, Sustainable Energy..

To view the Conference agenda and to register for the Conference, please go to www.halledit.com.au/nswsdc or contact Denise McQueen on 03 8534 5021 or Email [email protected]

Forthcoming events

For a full listing of forthcoming events, see ALGA's Events calendar.

• 28 - 29 April 2009 2009 National LG Asset Management and Public Works Engineering Conference • 06 - 07 May 2009 2009 Future of Local Government Summit • 08 - 09 May 2009 Teamwork for Better Health Conference 2009 • 11 - 14 May 2009 Commonwealth Local Government Forum • 11 - 12 May 2009 Victorian Transport Infrastructure Conference Information Bulletin Page Cor-16 Correspondence & Papers

ALGA NEWSLETTER – 17 April 2009

Rising to the Challenge - Infrastructure, Financing, Climate Change

ALGA President Cr Geoff Lake has encouraged councils across Australia to seize the opportunity to contribute to the development of national local government policy by submitting motions and attending this year's National General Assembly of Local Government.

"The opportunity for local government to have real input into the national agenda and to play a role in advancing Australia's national interests has never been greater," Cr Lake said. "The Australian Government places importance on its strategic relationship with local government and is eager to engage in a partnership approach with councils. This has been clearly demonstrated in recent months with $800 million allocated to councils as part of the fiscal stimulus spending for investment in community infrastructure.

"Previous assemblies have passed resolutions calling for more infrastructure and general purpose funding to be provided by the Australian Government to local government. These resolutions have developed the local government case for more funding and assisted in convincing the Australian Government of the need for an increased investment in community infrastructure funding.

"With our high level profile and engagement with the Australian Government, it is imperative that we maintain the momentum and continue to develop the local government agenda through the Assembly," he said.

To enhance the quality of outcomes from the Assembly, and to ensure that motions are relevant to local government nationally, the ALGA Board is calling for motions on the following three core themes:

• Financing of Local Government • Infrastructure • Climate Change

Motions should be received by ALGA no later than Friday 24 April 2009. To assist councils in preparing motions, discussion papers on each theme are available and an online form to submit motions at http://nga.alga.asn.au

Online registration is now open with the early bird registration at $799 saving you $200 extended until Monday 10 May 2009. To register go to http://nga.alga.asn.au Information Bulletin Page Cor-17 Correspondence & Papers

National awards close today

Nominations close today (Friday April 17) for the prestigious 2009 National Awards for Local Government. Since the inception of the Awards in 1986, thousands of projects have been recognised for delivering practical improvements to local communities.

This year, there are important changes to the way that the awards are structured.

The Awards will have a new theme, Local Government: Building Australian Communities', to recognise local government's role in providing infrastructure and delivering services. Awards will be presented in each of the 11 categories with only one overall winner declared. The categories are as follows:

Capacity Building

1. Innovation in Regional Development 2. Strength in Diversity 3. Strengthening Indigenous Communities 4. Women in Local Government 5. Youth Engagement

Community Services

1. Excellence in Alcohol Management 2. Health and Wellbeing

Environment

1. Innovation in Natural Resource Management 2. Leading Community Greenhouse Actions

Infrastructure and Services

1. Improving Service Delivery through Collaborations 2. Managing Community Assets

All elected local governments are invited to enter the awards and demonstrate how local government contributes to building Australian communities. For further information: 1800 065 113, or www.infrastructure.gov.au/local/awards.

2009 Banksia Awards

Banksia is once again looking to inspire and be inspired by examples of environmental excellence in Australia's most prestigious environmental awards and urge local governments leading the way in environmental sustainability to enter the awards.

Local government is a key sector in forwarding Australia's development towards a sustainable future and each and every council is encouraged to enter one of the many Information Bulletin Page Cor-18 Correspondence & Papers categories featured in the 2009 Awards Program such as the Environmental Services Award, Water Award, Large Business Award and many more.

The Awards seek out and recognise Australian Businesses, Community groups, individuals and public bodies such as local government that are reducing their environmental footprint and using resources in innovative ways. The awards provide an invaluable opportunity for recognition, and promotion of the leadership that Local Government is providing.

Entries close 11th May 2009. Finalists will be announced on 12th June 2009. Winners will be presented at the Banksia Foundation Awards Night at the New Melbourne Exhibition Centre 24th July 2009. For further information, contact or download an entry kit visit www.banksiafdn.com

From the President

The recent G20 meeting attended by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd came at a crucial time for the global economy. However, the success of the meeting will not be known for some time to come until its various agreements have had a chance to be implemented at the national level of member countries and the outcomes evaluated.

In Australia, many of the points of agreement reached at the G20 had already been instigated here prior to the meeting. Regardless of whether you personally support the extent of the Federal Government's stimulus package spending, local government has clearly been a significant beneficiary. Over the past six months, $800 million for community infrastructure has been pledged to councils and a range of other relevant funding opportunities have been expanded and made available such as increased Blackspot funding.

However just like almost every other sector of the Australian economy, the negative effects of the global economic slowdown are likely to be keenly felt by councils. One obvious effect is a fall in own-source income for councils. With interest rates at near historic record lows, interest earned on council deposits and investments has already fallen substantially. As more people in the community lose jobs or have their hours at work reduced, capacity to pay rates will also suffer. I am aware that councils in NSW, for example, are already experiencing much higher numbers of defaults on council rate payments.

To compound the problems caused by declining revenues, it is likely that demand for council services will increase. Social and human services at the local level are important in periods of increasing unemployment and we can expect a greater demand on council services over the coming year across areas such as libraries, community health, aged services and other human services.

It is predicted that Australia's unemployment rate will jump well beyond the 7% originally predicted for 2009-10. As people lose their jobs, they will also likely change their behavioral and lifestyle patterns. They will live more of their lives locally. Council services and the local environment will be important points of stability for people facing uncertain futures. Here is another obvious place for local government to play its part in helping to respond to the most pressing national issues. Information Bulletin Page Cor-19 Correspondence & Papers

The Treasurer has indicated that the forthcoming Federal Budget will add to the steps already taken by the Government to support economic demand, jobs, growth and to build the schools, roads and homes the nation needs. Let's hope that local government's funding needs - reflecting the needs of local communities - are also included in what will be a blueprint for spending over the next 12 months. ALGA has presented a detailed case to the Federal Government for increases in recurrent financial support to councils to assist local government play its part in meeting the range of challenges we collectively face.

A copy of ALGA's Budget Submission, Securing Australia's Economic and Social Future, will be mailed to each council in Australia at the beginning of next week. It can also be accessed online at ALGA's Website.

Cr Geoff Lake ALGA President

National Award for Planning Excellence

The winners of the Planning Institute of Australia's National Awards for Planning Excellence were announced recently in Darwin.

Winners included:

• Young Planner of the Year

Winner Kirsty Albrecht

• Rural and Regional Planning Achievement Award

Joint Winner 2 Far North Queensland Draft Regional Plan 2025 (Northern Region, Planning Group, Dept. of Infrastructure and Planning)

• Urban Planning Achievement Award

Winner Planned New Town - Port Macquarie Port Macquarie - Hastings Council

• Environmental Planning and Conservation Award

Joint Winner Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Plan Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board

• President's Award

Combined Winner Future Melbourne Community Plan (City of Melbourne) and Combined Winner Sustainable Sydney 2030 (City of Sydney) Information Bulletin Page Cor-20 Correspondence & Papers

Emergency communications

The Emergency Media & Public Affairs Conference will be held in Melbourne from Sunday 24 May to Tuesday 26 May 2009.

The Keynote Speaker is Robert Jensen, Acting Director, Office of External Affairs at the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Washington DC. EMPA's other overseas speaker is Colin Feslier, Strategic Communications Manager at the Department of Internal Affairs, New Zealand.

Other top speakers include Hon Bob Cameron MP, Minister for Police & Emergency Services-Victoria, Richard Dinnan, ABC Radio FNQ, Brett McLeod, Nine Network, Tony Pearce, Director-General, Emergency Management Australia, Steve Newton, Metcash and Scott Kelleher, Australian Institute of Criminology.

A planting revolution

Planet Ark is calling on all councils to help it start a tree planting revolution by registering and running National Tree Day sites in their local area. Aside from the opportunity to engage your residents in environmental issues and raise the profile of your council's environmental activities, National Tree Day events can help revegetate local bushland and green spaces, supporting local community and school groups along the way.

This year's National Tree Day will take place around the country on Sunday 2 August with Schools Tree Day to be held on Friday 31 July. Planet Ark is appealing to all councils to register and run tree-planting sites so that local constituents can volunteer and get involved. Councils can organise multiple tree planting sites and even support existing sites with contributions such as seedlings or ground preparation.

Planet Ark provides support to all registered Site-Coordinators through its National Tree Day Hotline and website, where downloadable resources as well as tools to help you promote your tree planting, are readily available.

For an information kit or to register call the National Tree Day Hotline on 1300 88 5000.

Indigenous services report

The Steering Committee for the Review of Government Service Provision's publication Report on Government Services 2009 : Indigenous Compendium is available from the Productivity Commission's website. The publication gathers together data drawn entirely from the previously released 'Report on Government Services 2009'. This report is available on the website . Steering Committee website.

Law and order update

The Australian Institute of Criminology has released the following publication: Armed robbery in Australia: 2006 National Armed Robbery Monitoring Program annual report by Lance Smith and Erin Louis.

The National Armed Robbery Monitoring Program (NARMP) was established to fill an information gap on trends and patterns of armed robbery in Australia, especially in Information Bulletin Page Cor-21 Correspondence & Papers relation to changes over time in the use of specific weapons. The 2006 annual report is the fourth publication since the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) began monitoring this offence in 2003. Building on previous analyses, this report provides an overview of the 7,560 victims of armed robbery and the situations, including the locations, which made them vulnerable to victimisation.

Water saving measures

NSW councils are on their way to saving 10,000 mega litres of water by July 2010 thanks to a $22m joint initiative of the Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW (LGSA) and the NSW Water Directorate.

The Water Loss Management Program, which is also partly funded by the Federal Government's Water Smart Australia Program, encourages local water utilities to adopt innovative and practical water-saving solutions.

President of the Local Government Association, Cr Genia McCaffery says a large number of councils have joined the program with innovative projects.

"The program highlights councils' commitment to environmental sustainability, with 55 councils across NSW involved," said Cr McCaffery.

For more information, visit the Water Loss Management Program website or phone Ian Maggs, Water Loss Program Manager at the LGSA on 02 9242 4127.

Community Road Safety

Austroads has recently released its Austroads Guide to Road Safety Part 4: Local Government and Community Road Safety.

The Austroads Guide provides an overview of how local government and community road safety programs are structured in Australia and New Zealand, what types of activity they involve, and how they contribute to road safety outcomes. It outlines and discusses:

• the road safety responsibilities of local government; • the advantages of working closely with the community in meeting those responsibilities; • the growing importance of capacity building; • social capital and social networking in the delivery of government services and their particular relevance to local road safety.

The Guide includes advice on the development and funding of local road safety strategies, mobilising resources, and evaluation and review. Case studies of various strategy plans are presented along with examples of road safety activities. Communication and reporting are also addressed. There is also a list of useful resources for local government and community road safety programs.

This is an essential reference for those people in local government with an interest in or responsibility for road safety.

This is the latest in the now completed nine part Guide to Road Safety. Information Bulletin Page Cor-22 Correspondence & Papers

Copies are available from the Austroads website.

Council staff can obtain free copies of all Austroads publications in PDF, including this one, be using their Council ID and password. These can be obtained by emailing a request to [email protected].

Austroads contact: on content: Phil Allan, Safety Program Manager 08 8204 8843; for publication availability: Judi Sorbie, Office Manager 02 9264 7088

Local Government calls for CPRS changes

In its submission on the draft Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) legislation, the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) has urged the Rudd Government to make changes to the treatment of waste under the proposed CPRS.

ALGA's submission draws on an independent briefing by Deacons' National Climate Change Group (available from ALGA's website on the likely impacts of the proposed scheme on councils.

ALGA President Geoff Lake said, "While local government generally supports the establishment of the CPRS, we believe there are problems for councils and households in the proposed scheme that need to be addressed. All households across Australia can expect to be hit by increased waste disposal costs regardless of whether their council owns and operates a landfill site."

The primary concerns for local government relate to how the CPRS proposes to deal with waste facilities and in particular:

• the measurement of emissions arising from waste; • the inclusion in the scheme of past waste, or 'legacy waste', that is emissions generated from waste deposited prior to 1 July 2008; and • the proposed reduction in the size of waste facilities which are captured in the scheme.

Measurement of waste:

"ALGA supports a universal scheme but believes the Government has not addressed the concerns of councils and the waste industry in relation to how emissions from waste can be measured reliably.

"We believe the Government should work with the waste management sector, including councils, to resolve the various outstanding technical issues before waste is included in the scheme."

"Professor Garnaut's report acknowledges that waste has not been included in any other country's emissions trading scheme because measuring emissions from waste facilities is problematic. Professor Garnaut recommends other policies to encourage mitigation in the waste sector ought to be pursued prior to the inclusion of waste in the Australian scheme. This is a sensible approach which local government would prefer to see adopted." Subscribe to ALGA's Media Information Bulletin Page Cor-23 Correspondence & Papers

Legacy waste:

"While the Government has gone some way to accommodating our concerns about legacy waste emissions by deferring liability until 2018, we maintain that the inclusion of legacy waste is unfair.

"It makes no sense to force present and future generations to pay for past waste discarded prior to commencement of the scheme, and in many cases, long before climate change was even acknowledged as an issue by the Australian Government. The inclusion of this so called 'legacy waste' will not make any contribution to reducing carbon emissions, however it will add significantly to the costs of every household across the country.

"Based on research done by Hyder Consulting, we estimate that the inclusion of legacy waste will cost households up to an additional $25 a year in extra charges.

"We support current and future waste being captured and properly priced in the scheme, but we don't think Australians should have to pay retrospectively for past waste deposited prior to the scheme's commencement. No other industry is expected to pay for its past activity and waste should not be an exception. Current households should not be taxed for the waste discarded by other households years ago."

Small landfills

"Following recent changes, the CPRS will now potentially capture many small landfills because of the Government's fears of operators engaging in waste diversion. We believe such diversion is unlikely and there are better arrangements that could be used to mitigate against this happening.

"The effect of the new approach will be that a number of small landfills not previously intended to be included will now be covered by the scheme. This will needlessly cost country councils a lot more with little or no impact on reducing emissions", Cr Lake concluded.

New SA LGA President elect

Mayor Felicity-ann Lewis of Marion Council has been provisionally declared President elect of the South Australian Local Government Association, by returning officer and Executive Director Wendy Campana.

Mayor Lewis will take over in the role from Pt Augusta Mayor Joy Baluch, at the conclusion of the LGA half-yearly General Meeting on 24th April, 2009.

Becoming Mayor of Marion in 2000, Mayor Lewis was elected as a Vice-President of the LGA in 2005.

LGA President, Mayor Baluch, welcomed the result noting that Mayor Miriam Smith of Tea Tree Gully had run a strong campaign.

"We are blessed in Local Government with strong leaders - particularly women Mayors," she said. Information Bulletin Page Cor-24 Correspondence & Papers

Mayor Lewis said she appreciated the support of Councils and would speak more about her aspirations for Local Government following the formal declaration of the result at the LGA General Meeting.

Disaster mitigation funding

Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, has announced that more than $18 million will be provided to the States and Territories this financial year under the Natural Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP).

The NDMP is a national program, administered by Emergency Management Australia (EMA), which aims to assist communities better withstand the effects of natural disasters and reduce the risk, damage and losses caused by events such as floods, bushfires and tropical cyclones.

The Federal Government has not yet made an announcement on the future of the program beyond the 2008-09 financial year. ALGA's budget submission (available at ALGA's Website) argues for the Commonwealth to at a minimum extend the rollout of this program given the value it plays in assisting local and regional communities mitigate against the ever increasing impacts resulting from natural disasters.

The 2008-090 funding will go toward measures such as structural works including flood levees and fire breaks, investment in disaster resilient infrastructure and development of emergency management plans.

Allocations for this financial year, based on submissions received from State and Territory Governments, will be:

• New South Wales: $6.045 million • Queensland: $5.348 million • Western Australia: $2.185 million • South Australia: $1.442 million • Victoria: $1.426 million • Tasmania: $0.883 million • Northern Territory: $0.697 million • Australian Capital Territory: $0.605 million

Natural disasters cause more than $1 billion damage each year to homes, businesses and the nation's infrastructure, along with serious disruption to communities.

More information on the NDMP and successful 2008-09 projects can be found on the Emergency Management Australia website.

Native title claims

The Rudd government says it's open to the idea of reversing the burden of proof for some aspects of native title claims, making it easier for Aboriginal groups to prove their connection to land.

High Court Chief Justice Robert French has suggested three "modest" changes to the native title process to lift the "heavy (emotional and financial) burden" it places on the parties involved. Information Bulletin Page Cor-25 Correspondence & Papers

Most controversially, Justice French says it should be presumed that indigenous applicants have the "continuous existence and vitality since sovereignty" needed to establish native title.

Many claims fail because indigenous groups can't prove an ongoing connection with their lands, often because they were dispossessed through the forces of colonisation.

"Such a presumption would enable the parties, if it were not to be challenged, to disregard a substantial interruption in continuity of acknowledgment and observance of traditional laws and customs," Justice French writes in the latest edition of the Australian Law Reform Commission journal. "A presumption subject to proof to the contrary is to be preferred."

Justice French also wants the Native Title Act amended so extinguishment can be disregarded if the claimant and the relevant state government agree. "Such agreements might be limited to crown land or reserves of various kinds."

Finally, the High Court chief justice says the Federal Court should be allowed to use an agreed statement of facts when making native title determinations by consent.

Attorney-General Robert McClelland says the government's mind is open to shifting the burden of proof from Aboriginal claimants on to states, territories and other parties.

"Our mind is open," he told ABC Radio on Thursday.

"In one sense, that's not inconsistent with the legal doctrine of presumption of regularity.

"In other words, if someone is the occupier of premises, you assume that they have title to those premises.

Mr McClelland said the government was prepared to "explore" the issues raised by Justice French. The Rudd government is reviewing the native title system because it is seen as being too slow, costly and cumbersome. Labor has already introduced legislation to parliament to enhance the mediation process. (Source: Sydney Morning Herald)

Quote of the week "Change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or the present are certain to miss the future" - John F. Kennedy International news

German police say they dispatched a rescue helicopter to a man whose laughter was mistaken for screams. A woman told the police she heard a man in his car screaming for three hours in a forest near the town of Elmstein, in the western German state of Rhineland-Palatinate. when officers reached the scene, it turned out the man was simply enjoying a day out and reading a funny book which made him laugh out loud. The police did not say what rip-roaring yarn the man had been enjoying. (AP) Information Bulletin Page Cor-26 Correspondence & Papers

Invitation to ICT Benchmarking Study

How do you determine the right size of your IT department? Do you overspend or underspend on IT?

If you wish to benchmark the performance of your IT department against other Local Government organizations, we invite you to take part in this study:

• the first part of the study provides insights into the IT staffing and budget ratios linked to the overall satisfaction with the IT performance. If you are a business executive and wish to contribute your experience, please click on this link to take a 5 min survey www.Swiftpage8.com/survey/ LGbenchmarking. • for more detailed analysis of key IT functions, please ask your IT Manager to participate in the second part of the study. It enables you to benchmark specific technologies and looks into IT trends specific to the Local Government business. IT Managers are invited to complete this 15 min survey www.Swiftpage8.com/survey/ LGbenchmarking

This is the first IT benchmarking study of its kind targeting Local Government in Australia and your participation is key to its success. Please take a few moments to share your perspective, and, in return, leverage experiences of your peers.

Contact: Dr Leila Abbasova, Technology Indicators Pty Ltd, Leila_abbasova@tech- indicators.com.au, www.tech-indicators.com.au

Shape social change with Deakin

Politics and policy courses at Deakin

> Graduate Certificate > Graduate Diploma > Masters

Designed in consultation with government, community and industry leaders, these courses focus on the development and implementation of public policy. You will explore the inter-relationships between government, the private sector and community organisations, with particular attention to the political context of public policy. In addition to core subjects covering democratic governance and accountability, you can choose from a range of elective units across these specialisations:

• Public Policy • Community Development • Global Politics • Government Relations • Local Governance

Taught by experts with extensivensive industry experience, our courses are supported by comprehensive study materials, online technologies and door-to-door library services. They are offered off campus and can be studied full time or part time, so you can combine study with work and lifestyle commitments. Information Bulletin Page Cor-27 Correspondence & Papers

Applications for Trimester 2, 2009 are now open.

For further information, please email [email protected] or call 1300 334 733. www.deakin.edu.au/postgrad

NSW Sustainable Development Conference Tuesday 12 - Wednesday 13 May 2009 Dockside Convention Centre, Sydney

The NSW Sustainable Development Conference 2009 will bring together decision-makers from the private and public sectors, industry leaders, local government, scientists, conservationists and others to discuss the current and future directions and frameworks for sustainability in NSW, and how it will affect NSW state and local government, business and the community.

To view the Conference agenda and to register for the Conference, please go to www.halledit.com.au/nswsdc or contact Denise McQueen on 03 8534 5021 or Email [email protected]

Melbourne Planning Summit Tuesday 28th - Wednesday 29th April Location: Zinc @ Federation Square, Melbourne

It will feature sessions on innovative urban partnerships and planning best practice case studies. Speakers include:

• Justin Madden, Minister for Planning • Jim Betts, Secretary, Department of Transport • Prue Digby, Deputy Secretary, Victorian Department of Planning and Community Development • Liz Johnstone, Manager, Planning Policy & Projects, MAV • Cr Paul Klisaris, Mayor, City of Monash • David Keenan, Director, City Sustainability, Hume City Council • David Mayes, Manager Strategic Planning and Sustainability, City of Melbourne • Alan Cadogan, Executive Manager, City Strategy, City of Sydney • Kerry Doss, Manager, City Planning, Brisbane City Council

Further details about the Summit, including the full program, are available at www.halledit.com.au/mps or contact Denise McQueen on 03 8534 5021 or Email [email protected]

Forthcoming events

For a full listing of forthcoming events, see ALGA's Events calendar.

• 22 - 24 April 2009 Infrastructure Symposium • 23 - 24 April 2009 Nation Building: the Local Foundations • 28 - 29 April 2009 Melbourne Planning Summit • 28 - 29 April 2009 2009 National LG Asset Management and Public Works Engineering Conference • 06 - 07 May 2009 2009 Future of Local Government Summit • 08 - 09 May 2009 Teamwork for Better Health Conference 2009 • 11 - 14 May 2009 Commonwealth Local Government Forum • 11 - 12 May 2009 Victorian Transport Infrastructure Conference • 12 - 14 May 2009 Workplace,Health & Safety

Information Bulletin Issue No. 07/2009

Employee Movements...... HR-1 Â Information from Human Resources Blue Divider

Information to Standing Committees

Â City Strategy Nil Lilac Divider

Â Development Nil Services Yellow Divider

Issue 07 – 22 April 2009 Information Bulletin Page HR-1 Information Items from Human Resource Management

1.1 EMPLOYEE MOVEMENTS

New Staff:

Information Technology Support Officer, commences 6 May 2009.

Staff Leaving:

Nil

Other Staff Movements (Internal):

Nil

Current Recruitment Activity:

Asset Management Coordinator – position on hold.

Engineering Surveyor – position on hold.

Parks Technical Officer – position on hold. nd Library Clerks (misc.) – 1 round recruitment complete.

Indigenous Children & Families Officer – no suitable candidates found, looking at alternative options.

Subdivision Engineer – interviews complete, recruitment progressing.

Senior Engineering Designer – applications closed 27/3/09, no suitable candidates.

Crossover Officer – interviews scheduled 22/4/09.

Information Bulletin Issue No. 07/2009

Employee Movements...... HR-1 Â Information from Human Resources Blue Divider

Information to Standing Committees

Â City Strategy Nil Lilac Divider

Â Development Nil Services Yellow Divider

Issue 07 – 22 April 2009 Information Bulletin T1 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

TECHNICAL SERVICES COMMITTEE REPORT ON OUTSTANDING MATTERS

ITEM REFERRING COMMENTS COMMITTEE

Redevelopment of Frye Park Technical Future report to Technical Refer C37/5/07 Services & Services Committee following Community development of Project Plan – Services expected Q2/09 Traffic lights modification cnr Technical Future report to Technical Armadale/Nicholson Roads Services Services Committee following Refer CS47/5/07 investigation with MRWA – expected Q3 FY 08/09 – Interim memo provided to Councillors Champion Lakes Development – Technical Future report to Technical Issues with Lake Road Services Services Committee following Refer CS47/5/07 work with ARA to determine Lake Rd role in ARA projects – expected Q4 FY 08/09 Bus Embayments – Commerce Technical Further report to Technical Avenue Services Services Committee following Refer T70/8/07 presentation by PTA PAW between Lots 64 & 65 Development Lighting improvement and Sheoak Place, Armadale Services other improvement works – Refer D108/9/07 considered as part of 5 Year Works Plan Jull St Mall Maintenance and Technical Further report to the Technical Refurbishment Services Services Committee – for Refer T105/12/07 consideration in the 15 Year Financial Plan deliberations Clifton Hills Primary School – Technical Future report to the Technical Parking Services Services Committee Refer T101/11/07 Heron Reserve – POS Funds Technical Report to the Technical Refer T102/12/07 Services Services Committee – expected Q2 FY 09/10 BBQ facilities CBD and speeding Technical Future report to the Technical traffic in Jull Street Services Services Committee Refer T20/3/08 Chilli Festival at Araluen City Strategy Report to Council Botanic Park Refer CS32/3/09

Information Bulletin T2 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

TECHNICAL SERVICES WORKS PROGRAMME March – May 2009

March April May Civil Works Construction Construction Construction • Ranford Road Stage 1 & 2 • Ranford Road Stage 1 & 2 • Ranford Road Stage 1 & 2 • Forrest Rd/Abbey Roundabout • Forrest Rd/Abbey Roundabout • Forrest Rd/Abbey Roundabout • Green Ave/Church Ave/Wungong Rd • Wright Rd • Wright Rd • Churchman Brook Road • Slab Gullly drainage • Slab Gully drainage • Dale road • Footpath program - continues • Gilmore Rd • Illawarra Rd • Hesketh Ave drainage • Rokewood Way • Wright Rd • Ward Cres • Orchard Av • Slab Gullly drainage • Kyogle Ct • Lockyer Rise • Footpath program • Eskadale Rd • Grade Rd/Roberts Rd • Hesketh Ave drainage • Gilmore Rd • Gardiner Rd • Rokewood Way Maintenance • Ward Cres • Orchard Av • Routine maintenance • Kyogle Ct • Continued investigation into a number of • Eskadale Rd Maintenance drainage complaints/issues • Routine maintenance • Contract road sweeping Maintenance • Continued investigation into a number of • BC programme - continue • Routine maintenance (including pot hole drainage complaints/issues • Footpath defect works filling) • Contract road sweeping • Continued investigation into a number of • BC programme - continue drainage complaints/issues • Footpath defect works • Contract road sweeping • • BC programme Information Bulletin T3 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

March April May • South West Hway Ped. X-ing • Footpath defect Development • Newhaven Precencts 2A, 3, 4, 5A & 6 • Newhaven Precincts 2A, 4, 5B & 6 • Armadale Plaza Dev. (Westzone) • Armadale Plaza Dev (Westzone) • Armadale Plaza Dev. (Westzone) • Newhaven Precincts 2A • Heron Park Stages 3 & 4 • Heron Park Stages 5, 6 & 6A • Newhaven precincts 4A • Forrestdale Business Park – Spine Rds • Forrestdale Business park – Spine Rds • Newhaven Precincts 5B • Forrestdale Business park – lots 5056 • Forrestdale Business Park – lots 5056 • Newhaven Precincts 5C Armadale Road, 5057 Allen Road and Armadale Road, 5057 Allen Road and • Newhaven Precincts 6 (school site) 54 Ranford Road 54 Ranford Road • Heron Park Stages 4A • Forrestdale Business Park – lot 5054, • Forrestdale Business Park – lot 5054, • Heron Park Stages 6 130 & 131 Ranford Road 130 & 131 Ranford Road • Heron Park Stage 6A • Lot 27 Lake Road • Forrestdale Business Park – lots 3 and • Heron Park Stages 7 • Champion Lakes Stg 2 53 Ranford Road • Lot 15 Brooks Road • Irimple Road – Lot 4 & 160 • Forrestdale Business Park – lots 4, 82, • Lot pt6 & 7 Carradine Road • Lot 681 Canns Road 296, 406 Ranford Road • Lot 9000 Westfield Road • Lot 11 Ivanhoe Way • Champion Lakes Stg 2 • Lot 51 Salter Rd • Lot 604 Waterwheel Road Stg 4 • Irimple Road – Lot 4 & 160 • Lot 9000 Girbble Ave • Lot 56 Birtwhistle place • Lot 681 Canns Road • Lot 501 Holden Rd – Preliminary • Lot 9005 & 24 Ralphs Road • Lot 11 Ivanhoe Way earthworks and filling • Wungong Urban Water – Cell K – • Lot 604 Waterwheel Road Stg 4 • Irimple Road – lot 4 & 160 Preliminary earthworks and filling • Lot 56 Birtwhistle Place • Lot 681 Canns Road • Lot 15 Brooks Road • Lot 9005 & 24 Ralphs Road • Lot 604 Waterwheel Road Stg 4 • Lot Pt6 & 7 Carradine Road • Wungong Urban Water – Cell K – • Lot 56 Birtwhistle place • Lot34, 35 & 800 Westfield Road Preliminary earthworks and filling • Lot 11 Ivanhoe Way • Lot 9000 Westfield Road • Lot 15 Brooks Road • ARA Works • Lot10 &11 Gillam Drive • Lot Pt6 & 7 Carradine Road • Forrestdale Business park – Spine Rds • Lot34, 35 & 800 Westfield Road • F B P – lots 5056 Armadale Rd, 5057 • Lot 9000 Westfield Road Allen Rd and 54 Ranford Rd Information Bulletin T4 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

March April May • Lot10 &11 Gillam Drive • F B P – Lots 5054, 130 & 131 Ranford • Lot 51 Salter Rd Rd • Lot 9000 Gribble Ave • F B P – Lots 3 and 53 Ranford Rd • • F B P – Lots 4, 82, 296, 406 Ranford Rd • Champion Lakes Stg 2 • Wungong Urban Water – Cell K – Preliminary earthworks and filling • Lot 34, 35 & 800 Westfield Road • Lot 10 & 11 Gillam Drive Design & Design & Engineering Design & Engineering Design & Engineering Engineering • Warton Road (dual carriageway) Keanne Road Keanne Road • Railway Ave (section reconstruction) Champion Drive Champion Drive • Champion Driv (Rehab – Job) Blackspot proposals 2010/11 Wright Road • Hillman Way (cul de sac) Ranford Lighting Design Nicholson Road (Dual Carriageway) • Clifton Road (Re-construct) Wright Road Drainage Nicholson Road (Dual Carriageway) Drainage • Slab Gully – Creek relocation and Drainage • Slab Gully Creek relocation barriers (Stage IV) • Carrick Subsoil • Banyard Ave – additional drainage • Slab Gully Creek relocation systems Parks and Capital Works Capital Works Capital Works Reserves • Playground Strategy • Playground Strategy • Playground Strategy • POS Strategy – Reserve Developments. • POS Strategy – Reserve Developments. • POS Strategy – Reserve Developments. • Flood lighting – Morgan Park, Creyk • Fed Govt – Playgrounds Upgrades • Fed Govt – Playgrounds Upgrades Park & Springdale Res. • Fed Govt – Playgrounds Upgrades

Information Bulletin T5 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

March April May Asset Works Asset Works Asset Works • Playground softfall & repairs Citywide • Playground softfall & repairs Citywide • Playground softfall & repairs Citywide • Reticulation Preservation • Reticulation Preservation • Reticulation Preservation • Cross Park Tank Preservation • Cross Park Tank Preservation Maintenance - Improvements • Cricket wicket/net refurbishments • Schedule Mowing • Citywide Streetscape Maintenance Maintenance - Improvements Maintenance - Improvements • Rural Roads – Vegetation Control • Schedule Mowing • Schedule Mowing • Citywide Streetscape Maintenance • Citywide Streetscape Maintenance

Property Capital Works Capital Works Capital Works Management • CCTV Administration and Central • CCTV Administration and Central • CCTV Administration and Central Business District Federal Grant Business District Federal Grant Business District Federal Grant • application for Phase 1 CCTV • application for Phase 1 CCTV • application for Phase 1 CCTV • Roleystone Theatre Stabilizing earth bank • Roleystone Theatre Stabilizing earth bank • Roleystone Theatre Stabilizing earth bank at rear of Theatre at rear of Theatre at rear of Theatre • Roleystone Theatre Electrical Upgrade • Roleystone Theatre Electrical Upgrade • Roleystone Theatre Electrical Upgrade • Champion Centre Refurbishment • Champion Centre Refurbishment • Champion Centre Refurbishment • Administration Front Foyer • Administration Front Foyer • Administration Front Foyer • Roleystone Hall – Air Conditioning • Roleystone Hall – Air Conditioning • Roleystone Hall – Air Conditioning

Asset Preservation Asset Preservation Asset Preservation Administration Internal Refurbishment Administration Internal Refurbishment Administration Internal Refurbishment Administration New Photocopiers Admin Kitchen Upgrade Admin Kitchen Upgrade Admin Kitchen Upgrade Administration Air Conditioning Administration Air Conditioning Administration Air Conditioning enclosure of units and completion of completion of balancing system enclosure of units and completion of balancing system Seville Grove Library – Air conditioner balancing system Seville Grove Library – Air conditioner replacement Seville Grove Library – New Loans replacement Dog Pound - Refrigeration chamber Information Bulletin T6 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

March April May Counter and re-carpeting of main area Dog Pound - Refrigeration chamber Dog Pound - Refrigeration chamber Maintenance Maintenance Maintenance • Scheduled Cleaning Council buildings. • Scheduled Cleaning Council buildings. • Scheduled Cleaning Council buildings. • Building maintenance all buildings • Building maintenance all buildings • Building maintenance all buildings

Information Bulletin T7 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

Information Bulletin T8 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

Information Bulletin T9 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

Information Bulletin T10 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

Information Bulletin T11 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

Information Bulletin T12 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

Information Bulletin T13 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

Information Bulletin T14 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

Information Bulletin T15 Information Items from the Technical Services Directorate

Information Bulletin Issue No. 07/2009

Employee Movements...... HR-1 Â Information from Human Resources Blue Divider

Information to Standing Committees

Â City Strategy Nil Lilac Divider

Â Development Nil Services Yellow Divider

Issue 07 – 22 April 2009 Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-1 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MATTERS OUTSTANDING REPORT

COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE REPORT ON OUTSTANDING MATTERS – MARCH 2009 DEPT. ACTION/STATUS Matters for Referral to Standing Committees – Recreation Services Opportunities will be discussed with the Cr Stewart – That Officers investigate Highland Gathering Working Group opportunities to include a Bon Scott theme into with a report to Community Services the 2009 Highland Gathering. (C53/11/08) Committee April meeting. Matters for Referral to Standing Committees – Community Development Policy is currently being developed and Cr Hart – That officers investigate and report is anticipated to be presented to the back to Council on the formulation of a Policy Community Services Committee May for City of Armadale volunteers (C54/11/08) meeting. Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-2 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

LIBRARY & HERITAGE SERVICES GENERAL MONTHLY REPORT – MARCH 2009

1. LIBRARY SERVICES

1.1 Statistical Performance Indicators

The Library Department’s statistical performance indicators report for the month of March is attached. (Refer to Attachment “CA-1”.)

1.2 “E”xtension Activities (Enrich, Educate, Explore, Escape, Entertain, Evolve)

1.2.1 “E” (Enrich & Entertain) Session

Report – Harmony Week Event Prepared by – Jenny Ramshaw (Branch Librarian) Seville Grove Library

Date: Tuesday March 17th Time: 9.30 – 11.30am Venue: Seville Grove Library Meeting Room

No. Attending: 53

Comments:

Harmony Week runs from 15-21 March and enables us to recognise and respect our differences, while focusing on what unites us as Western Australians (Office of Multicultural Interests Newsletter).

To celebrate Harmony Week, the ‘World of Words’ group and the Seville Grove library hosted a multicultural morning tea.

The Indonesian troupe dance group ‘Selandang Sutra’ delighted the audience with dances that represented their culture. Balinese and Javanese contemporary and traditional dances were performed. The vibrant costumes and sparkling jewellery added to the magic of the show. The dancers encouraged members of the audience to join in with the dancing.

Members of the ‘World of Words’ group brought along plates of food for the event. The group were encouraged to prepare food that had an Indonesian theme. It was an enjoyable morning and a very successful event. Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-3 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

2. HERITAGE SERVICES

2.1 Statistical Performance Indicators

The Heritage Department’s statistical performance indicators report for the month of March 2009 is attached. (Refer to Attachment “CA-2”.)

2.2 Birtwistle Local Studies Library

(Report prepared by Lorraine Pearce, Historian/Local Studies Librarian)

Local Government Librarians’ Association of WA (LocLib) 2009 Biennial Conference

The Historian/Local Studies Librarian attended the LocLib 2009 Biennial Conference, the theme of which was “Libraries Transform Communities”, and participated as a part of a panel of three answering questions relating to digitising oral history collections.

A twenty minute presentation by Brent Acie, who discussed some of the challenges and possible solutions in digitising materials, was followed by the panel discussion. The Historian/Local Studies Librarian was invited onto the panel by the conference organisers based on her experience in digitising oral history collections.

The panel discussion presented the opportunity to share how a number of interviews from the Birtwistle Local Studies Library oral history collection are made available through the City of Armadale Website and how online displays can be set up using digital images. The result of using an online setting not only promotes a local studies collection but also makes it available to a wider audience and can become part of the creation of a Web 2.0 environment which was a major conference theme.

2.3 History House Museum

(Report prepared by Christen Bell, Museum Curator)

New Volunteers The museum has been very fortunate to have four new volunteers start this month. This has alleviated the staffing issues at the museum. The new volunteers are currently being trained in accessioning, how to handle the collection, keeping the museum clean and customer service.

Armadale Home Help A group of 18 from Armadale Home Help came for a visit to the museum which included a tour of the Armadale School Building.

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-4 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

Sunday Mornings The opening of History House Museum on a Sunday morning to coincide with the Producers Markets has been reasonably successful. In March there were 48 Sunday Morning visitors. In the previous month of February there were 24 visitors and in January there were 19. It would seem that with the improved weather, more people are accessing the Minnawarra / Civic Precinct.

3. VISITOR SERVICING

3.1 Statistical Performance Indicators: March 2009

1558 people came to the Centre for the month of March 2009 compared to 1370 for the same period in 2008. That is an increase of 14% from last year.

Growth over the past three years in visitors to the Centre is 295%.

(Figures used: March 07, 08, 09)

March Stats:

600 500 VISITORS 400 300 Ticketmaster 200 Museum 100 0 Vol Hours Week One Week Two Week Week Four Inter/Intra Visitors Three

TOTAL TOTAL Visitors Ticketmaster Visitors Inter Overseas O/sea & Volunteer Museum Less State Visitors Interstate Hours Ticketmaster Visitors VISITORS 1558 166 1392 100 153 253 158 231

VISITOR CENTRE OPENED FOR 218 HOURS

AVERAGE VISITORS PER WEEK: 390 VOLUNTEER HOURS PER WEEK: 40

VISITOR CENTRE - DOLLAR VALUE TO THE COMMUNITY:

Average Visitor Spend – Day Visitor:

$ 2,486 per day = $ 17,400 per week = $ 69,600 per month Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-5 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

Based on $50 per person who came into the Visitor Centre staying one day in our area, This is a conservative figure as current guidelines are based on $80 per person each day. Figure calculated as - Visitors less Ticketmaster.

Average Spend – Including Accommodation:

$1,361 per night = $ 9,525 per week = $ 37,950 per month

Figure is calculated by Using Inter and Overseas figures only for the month, based on $150 per person.

TOTAL TOURISM DOLLAR VALUE – MARCH 2009: $ 107,550

3.2 Visitor Centre

(Report prepared by Yvonne Bradfield, Visitor Centre Coordinator)

The Araluen Chilli Festival

The Management of Araluen Botanic Park allowed the Visitor Centre to have a site gratuitously over the two days of this Festival. The attendance rates of the Festival were far greater than previous years and the opportunity for people from the greater Perth region to explore and spend time in the Armadale area was vigorously promoted and encouraged. A promotional ‘give-away’ allowed the Coordinator to collect data on those attending the Festival. This data indicated the ‘whole of Perth’ participation of the Festival.

Hills Heartbeat Festival

For the third year in succession the Visitor Centre has had a site at this developing community Festival. Greater local and regional community participation was apparent and the data collected from the promotional ‘give- away’ confirmed this fact. The Festival has developed partnerships between local craft people and the Visitor Centre, promoting the quality hand craft that is available throughout the region.

Head of the River

With cooperation from Mr Ralph Wood of the Public Schools Association and the ARA, the Visitor Centre Coordinator was able to distribute packs of local information to each one of the participating Schools tents, the Sponsor tent and the VIP tent on the day of this event. As this event was held at the same time as part of the Hills Heartbeat Festival, it was unfortunate that the Coordinator could not establish a greater presence at the event.

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-6 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

Visitor Centre Association of WA mid year conference

On the 18th March, the Coordinator facilitated a conference, held in the City of Fremantle, for the Visitor Centre Association. This conference is held annually to coincide with the Caravan & Camping Show of Perth as many of the Visitor Centre Managers throughout the State attend the Show. A project, facilitated by Tourism WA and the VCAWA, was launched at the Conference to offer the provision of a Certificate III in Visitor Servicing, at no cost, for all Part time and Permanent Staff at all Level One and Two Visitor Centres throughout the State as well as a Certificate IV for all Coordinator/Managers.

The Coordinator, as the Chair of the Association, became the first to undergo assessment and has since been awarded a Certificate IV in Tourism (Visitor Servicing).

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-7 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

MANAGER RANGER & EMERGENCY SERVICES REPORT FOR MARCH 2009

1. Animal Control

1.1 Dogs

Ranger Services received three hundred and ninety three (393) requests for assistance during this report period.

The number of individual incidents is comparative to the corresponding period of March 2008, notwithstanding the 2007/2008 progressive figures indicating a 6% increase in activity over the last twelve (12) months.

Current tasks and activities performed by Ranger Services. • Impounding stray or wandering dogs. • Issuing relevant infringement notices, cautions, or warnings as appropriate. • Follow up complaints. • Ensuring all correspondence in relation to dog control is carried out. • Collection of evidence and prosecutions of offenders and court appearances. • Arranging for destruction of dogs when necessary • Property inspections for dog registrations. • Kennel inspections. • Dangerous Dog Declaration investigation. • Pound Cleaning and maintenance.

1.2 Livestock

During this report period, Ranger Services attended to thirteen (13) requests for assistance in dealing with stock wandering. This figure indicates a 21% reduction in the number of reported incidents of stock wandering.

1.3 Court Action

The following information relates to legal action taken by Ranger Services during the report period.

NAME OFFENCE FINDING PENALTY COSTS TOTAL OF $ $ $ COURT Rendell Dog Attack (on Guilty 1,900.00 114.20 2,014.20 Abraham animal) Nicole Moyle Failure to Comply Guilty 300.00 114.20 414.20 with Firebreak Notice Michael Hayes Parking contrary to Guilty 50.00 114.20 164.20 sign Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-8 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

2. Vehicles

2.1 Parking

Ranger Services attended to ninety (90) incidents relating to the unlawful parking of vehicles during this report period and represents a 5% increase on the number of parking matters reported to Ranger Services over the past 12 months.

In order to facilitate the safe effective flow and control of traffic, and to monitor parking in and around schools, it is the responsibility of Ranger Services to maintain and administer the provisions of Local Laws Relating to Parking Facilities.

One of the ways of achieving this is by a strict application of parking local laws thereby reducing the risk of injury caused by the indiscriminate parking of vehicles, and to ensure the smooth flow of traffic is maintained.

There are fourteen (14) schools within the district of the City of Armadale. Rangers conduct regular patrols around the schools and enforce the provisions of the parking local laws, in addition to this there is the ever increasing vehicular activity within the CBD.

The Current tasks and activities being performed by the Rangers • School parking patrols (limited). • Issuing of parking infringement notices, cautions and warnings as appropriate. • Investigation of complaints. • Investigate and report damage caused by illegal parking (reserves etc.). • Commercial vehicle parking (on complaint only).

2.2 Abandoned Vehicles

The number of abandoned vehicles reported to Ranger Services continues to be of concern, with thirty five (35) being recorded during this report period.

2.3 Control of Vehicles (Off Road Areas)

Ranger Services attended to nine (9) reports of vehicles (motor cycles) being driven in areas that are prohibited, during the report period.

Ranger Services currently provides a service to the community in respect to reports of off-road vehicles being driven or used in certain areas, particularly where it is identified that life and or property are at risk. Notwithstanding the City of Armadale does not have a local law relating to the control of off- Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-9 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

road vehicles. Such matters are dealt with pursuant to the “Control of Vehicles (Off-road Areas) Act 1978” (ORV Act)

The Department of Local Government and Regional Development (DLGRG) are currently in the process of reviewing the ORV Act, following which it may be appropriate that Council develop and introduce a local law, however this should be determined following completion of the review.

Current tasks and activities performed: • Act on complaints. • Work in liaison with Police Service. • Apprehension of offenders. • Correspondence relating thereto. • Issuing of cautions, warnings, or infringement notices.

3. Fire Services

There were thirty nine (39) enquiries relating to fire incidents during the March report period, these matters were principally related to concerns regarding firebreaks and information relation to general fire safety.

Current tasks and activities performed • Investigate complaints. • Carry out firebreak inspections. • Compile reports. • Issue Infringement notices/cautions where appropriate. • Institute legal action. • Attend court as witness • Support fire services as required.

4. Litter

Ranger Services has received several complaints, from concerned members of the community, regarding the amount of household rubbish being deposited onto reserves and road verges throughout the district.

During this report period, Ranger Services attended to thirty (30) requests for assistance regarding the illegal dumping or rubbish.

Keeping roadsides, reserves and other areas litter-free is a major focus of the City of Armadale and Rangers are ever vigilant in identifying and apprehending litter offenders.

Current tasks and activities performed • Investigate complaints relating to dumping of rubbish. • Issue infringement notices, cautions or warnings and take court action where appropriate. Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-10 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

5. General

Evaluation of Stay or Go Policy

The positions advocated by the Australasian Fire Authorities Council (AFAC), known as the Stay and defend or-Go early policy, is a fundamental component of community bushfire safety. Essentially the policy contends that people should prepare themselves and their properties and decide whether to stay and defend when a bushfire is likely, or leave the area well before the fire is likely to arrive.

The research in this project involves case studies of recent fires where there were significant issues surrounding evacuation or staying or where the policy has worked well. Case studies are being compiled from Australia and overseas.

The Stay or Go research is investigating impediments to full implementation of the policy and examines ways of integrating the policy with other important factors in bushfire risk management. The project is collating and analysing current practices in the context of their legal, organizational, emergency planning and other issues across Australia, with the intent of developing strategies for the agencies to better implement the policy.

6. Statistics – March 2009

DOGS March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total Wandering 34 45 330 384 Down 14% Dogs for Pick Up 45 55 353 377 Down 6% Barking 26 29 206 243 Down 16% Attacks 14 21 112 164 Down 31% Lost & Found 66 86 819 795 Up 3% General Information 12 11 86 80 Up 8% Sub Total 197 247 1906 2043 Down 7% Office Phone Enquiries 196 179 1933 1571 Up 23% Total 393 426 3839 3614 Up 6% Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-11 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

PARKING / VEHICLES March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total General Parking 23 15 113 151 Down 25% Trucks 2 4 47 40 Up 18% School Parking 6 4 27 12 Up 125% Abandoned Vehicles 35 14 217 177 Up 22% Off Road Vehicles 9 27 110 140 Down 20% Sub Total 75 64 514 520 Down 1.5% Office Phone Enquiries 15 19 233 190 Up 23% Total 90 83 747 710 Up 5%

LIVESTOCK March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total Lost & Found 0 20 11 49 Down 77% General 9 0 70 43 Up 62% Sub Total 9 20 81 92 Down 13% Office Phone Enquiries 4 7 37 58 Down 36% Total 13 27 118 150 Down 21%

LITTER March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total General Information 1 0 4 0 Up Private Property 4 2 24 23 Up 1% Roadside / Reserve 9 11 47 64 Down 27% Verge 7 0 34 41 Down 17% Sub Total 21 13 109 128 Down 15% Office Phone Enquiries 9 8 63 45 Up 40% Total 30 21 172 173 Same Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-12 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

FIRE March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total Burning Off / General 8 2 54 20 Up Information 170% Firebreak / Hazard 6 9 293 271 Up 8% Sub Total 14 11 347 291 Up 19% Office Phone Enquiries 25 19 492 319 Up 54% Total 39 30 839 610 Up 38%

GENERAL March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total General Information 3 3 27 34 Down 20% Sub Total 3 3 27 34 Down 20% Office Phone Enquiries - 5 0 46 0 Trolleys Up Office Phone Enquiries - Cats 15 17 106 89 Up 19% Office Phone Enquiries - 68 12 259 122 Up General 112% Total 91 32 438 245 Up79%

TOTAL March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total Sub Total Reports / 319 358 2984 3108 Down Complaints 3% Total Office Phone Enquiries 337 261 3171 2394 Up32% Total Reports / Complaints 656 619 6155 5502 Up 12%

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-13 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

WARNINGS March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total Dogs 23 21 153 148 Up 3% Parking 1 12 28 149 Down 81% Off Road Vehicles 1 1 10 2 Up 400% Litter 2 1 7 1 Up Fire & Fire Orders 2 0 160 40 Up 300% Shopping Trolleys 45 0 652 0 Up Other incl Vehicles 48 1 168 3 Up Total 122 36 1178 343 Up 243%

INFRINGEMENTS March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total Dogs 53 42 355 334 Up 6% Parking 110 430 Up 128 893 108% Off Road Vehicles 0 0 9 9 Same Litter 11 50 Up 5 74 48% Fire 1 55 Up 14 182 231% Shopping Trolleys 0 0 77 0 Up Other Incl Signs 0 4Up 24 87 100% Total 224 164 1677 882 Up 90% NUMBER WITHDRAWN 21 131 Up 30 239 82% Number Paid 98 639 Up 143 1101 72%

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-14 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

IMPOUNDED DOGS March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total Claimed 46 68 352 382 Down 8% Sold 0 3 6 30 Down 80% Destroyed 10 21 125 162 Down 23% Vet / Rescue 17 7 90 44 Up 105% Stolen 0 0 0 0 Same Total 73 99 573 618 Down 7%

IMPOUNDED VEHICLES March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total Vehicles 8 5 74 44 Up 68% Motor Cycles 0 14 0 14 Down Total 8 19 74 58 Up 28%

IMPOUNDED LIVESTOCK March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total Sheep 0 2 4 7 Down 57% Horses 0 0 0 3 Down 57% Cows 0 0 0 0 Same Goats 2 0 3 0 Up Pigs 0 0 0 0 Same Deer 0 0 0 0 Same Other 0 0 6 1 Up Total 2 2 13 11 Up 18%

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-15 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

ABANDONED TROLLEYS March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total Impounded 0 0 142 0 Up Released 0 0 28 0 Up Total 0 0 170 0 Up

IMPOUNDED SIGNS March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total Impounded 35 0 229 0 Up Released 0 0 2 0 Up

COURT PROSECUTIONS March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total Dog 1 3 40 45 Down 10% Fire 1 0 3 0 Up Parking 1 0 3 2 Up50% Litter 0 0 0 0 Same Off Road Vehicles 0 0 0 0 Same Total 3 3 46 47 Down 2% No. of Guilty Verdicts 3 3 46 47 Down 2%

FINES ENFORCEMENT March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total Infringements sent to FER 67 60 518 350 Up 48%

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-16 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MONTHLY OFFICER REPORTS

DOG REGISTRATIONS March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total New Dog Registrations 148 52 1517 561 Up 170% Renewed Dog Registrations 101 21 3146 1664 Up 89% Total 249 73 4663 2225 Up 109% Total Animals on System 10810 10887

PHONE CALLS March March 2008/2009 2007/2008 2009 2008 Progressive Progressive Total Total Office – Rangers calling Office 71 54 527 308 Up 71% Office – Messages for Staff 37 48 281 351 Down 19% Office – Referred to Other 11 10 169 139 Up 21% Calls to Rangers’ Private 1 1 6 34 Residences from After Hours Down Service 82% TOTAL 120 113 983 832 Up 18%

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Page C-17 Information Items from the Community Services Directorate

MINUTES OF OCCASIONAL/ADVISORY COMMITTEES

Armadale Highland Gathering Working Group Meeting held on Tuesday, 24 March 2009. (Refer to Attachment “CA-3”.)

Disability Advisory Committee Meeting held on Tuesday, 7 April 2009. (Refer to Attachment “CA-4”.)

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Attachment “CA-1” Information Items from the Community Services Directorate Page 18

COA Libraries Issues/Renewals March 2009

40,000 36,427 34,770

35,000

30,000

25,000

2009 20,000 15,723 2008 14,958

15,000 10,431 10,348 9,434 8,700 10,000

5,000

0 Armadale Kelmscott Seville Grove Total

COA Libraries Number of Visits March 2009

8,534

9,000 8,074

8,000

6,451 7,000 5,932

6,000 5,235 4,753

5,000 2009 2008 4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0 Armadale Kelmscott Seville Grove

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Attachment “CA-1” Information Items from the Community Services Directorate Page 19

COA Libraries Current Borrowers March 2009

11,142 11,249 12,000

10,000

8,000 6,835 6,646

2009

6,000 4,551 2008 4,289

4,000

2,000

0 Armadale Kelmscott Seville Grove

COA Libraries New Borrowers March 2009

200 181

180

160 134

140

108 120 93 2009 100 2008 71 80 64

0 Armadale Kelmscott Seville Grove

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Attachment “CA-1” Information Items from the Community Services Directorate Page 20

COA Libraries Borrower's Reservations March 2009

500 451

450 397

400

350 309

279 300 252 By Staff for Borrowers 2009 219 250 By Staff for Borrowers 2008

200

150

100

0 Armadale Kelmscott Seville Grove

COA Libraries Comparison Reservation by Staff & Direct by Borrower March 2009

33%

Reservation by Staff for Borrowers Online Reservations by Borrowers

67%

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Attachment “CA-2” Information Items from the Community Services Directorate Page 21

Month: March Year: 2009

Birtwistle Local Studies Library Current Year to date Month Mar 09 Mar 08 Jul 08 – Mar 09 Jul 07 – Mar 08 Reference Enquiries 11 17 108 99 Research Enquiries 11 17 128 73 Visitor Attendance 80 70 786 594 Volunteer Hours 33 25 632 476 Oral History Letters Sent Nil 1 8 21 Interviews Completed Nil 5 10 12 Transcripts Completed Nil Nil 16 14 Volunteer Hours – 78 27.5 579 256.5 Transcribing Volunteer Hours - 6 5.5 59 40 Interviewing Digitising Records 9 Nil 9 45 Family History Research Reference 7 5 104 24 Research 49 25 316 90 Volunteer Hours 39 41 387 183

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Attachment “CA-2” Information Items from the Community Services Directorate Page 22

Month: Feb Year: 2009

History House Current Year to date Museum Month March March 08 July 08- June 09 Jul 07 – June 08 09 Visitors 181 223 1388 1730 Volunteer Hours 145 180 1065 1395

Bert Tyler Vintage March March 08 July 08 – June 09 Jul 07 – June 08 Machinery Museum 09 231 240 3994 3709

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Attachment “CA-3” Information Items from the Community Services Directorate Page 23

MINUTES

OF THE ARMADALE HIGHLAND GATHERING WORKING GROUP HELD ON TUESDAY, 24 MARCH 2009 IN THE COMMUNITY SERVICES MEETING ROOM, CITY OF ARMADALE, COMMENCING AT 6.10 PM

1. ATTENDANCE AND APOLOGIES

Name Organisation Cr J A Stewart Chairman – City of Armadale Mrs Barbara Ewing-Manolas Clans & Scottish Heritage Mr Peter Andrews WA Metropolitan Regional Committee of Highland Dancing Mr Ken Manolas Australian Pipe Band Association WA Ms Barbara Ross Caledonian Society of WA Ms Peta Turnbull Events Coordinator – City of Armadale Mrs Yvonne Ward Minute Secretary – City of Armadale Mr Henk Vogels Cycling Representative Apologies Mr Alister Wilson Community Representative

Barbara Ewing-Manolas advised that she would in future represent the Clans and Scottish Heritage.

2. REVIEW OF 2008

The Events Coordinator requested feedback in regard to the conduct of the 2008 Armadale Highland Gathering. Comments provided by members were: • Feedback received from members of the public in attendance at the Gathering were that it was a very successful event. • More space was requested for the pipe bands area. Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Attachment “CA-3” Information Items from the Community Services Directorate Page 24

• Heavy Events – a replacement as needed for Jay Waller to conduct the heavy events. • Site layout – more space was requested. • Highland Dancing – the marquee was too big – the length was great but was too wide.

4. PORTFOLIO REPORTS

4.1 Site Layout/Logistics – Events Coordinator More space needed for the 2009 event.

4.2 Pipe Band Competition – Ken Manolas Ken Manolas advised that the Pipe Band competition arrangements were in train and would be conducted the same as last year. Information has been received that the Police Band will be rejoining the Association. In the past, taking the tent down has become a big job for Ken and Barbara by themselves. They asked if they could be given assistance to take the tent down in 2009.

4.3 Entertainment – Cr Jim Stewart Suggestions for suitable acts to be included in the 2009 AHG were canvassed. Suggestions were: • The Bad Piper • School choirs • Clan • CWA Choirs • Carradine Choir amongst others.

4.4 Cycling Event Henk Vogels advised that the State Championships would be held again this year and would be the 20th anniversary of the Criterium. It had been hoped that the Championships would coincide with the Tour of Perth, but this has not been possible due to a conflict of dates.

4.5 Highland Dancing Competition - Peter Andrews Nil

4.6 Heavy Events – Jay Waller The Events Coordinator advised that due to other commitments, Jay Waller was unable to attend AHG Working Group Meetings. It was also believed that it was his preference to no longer have responsibility for coordinating the heavy events and that a replacement should be sought.

4.7 Royal Scottish Country Dancing Displays Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Attachment “CA-3” Information Items from the Community Services Directorate Page 25

Nil

4.8 Food and Craft Vending – Events Coordinator Nil

4.9 Finance – Events Coordinator The Events Coordinator advised that advice regarding the budget amount for the 2009 AHG would be considered by Council during its budget deliberations towards the middle of the year.

Cr Stewart advised that the budget allocation for the 2009 AHG should be an increase on the previous year. This would allow for the Bon Scott Project which would be the subject of a report to Council in April/May 2009.

Cr Stewart suggested that inclusion of Council’s Tourism Coordinator (Yvonne Bradfield) on the Armadale Highland Gathering Working Group and Minnawarra Festival Working Group would be beneficial to both Committees.

5. GENERAL BUSINESS

Nil

6. NEXT MEETING

The next meeting to be held on Tuesday, 5 May 2009 at 6.00 pm in the City of Armadale Committee Room

7. CLOSURE

MEETING CLOSED AT 6:55PM

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Attachment “CA-4” Information Items from the Community Services Directorate Page 26

Disability Advisory Team Notes

Date of meeting: Tuesday 7 April 2009 Time: 10:00am to 11.30am Venue: Function Room, Council Administration Building, 7 Orchard Avenue.

Present: Cr Pat Hart (Chair), Ms Nonnie Wickens (Community representative), Mr Ron Fisher (Community representative), Ms Gail Nesci (Armadale Health Service), Mr Lance Hogg (Disability Services Commission), Ms Melissa Northcott (Community representative), Mr John Glassford (Property Services Manager), Ms Sheila Parker (Community representative), Mr Daniel Cain (Community Development Officer - Seniors / Access and Inclusion)

Guest: Neil Kegie (Executive Manager Community Services)

Agenda Items:

1) Apologies Tony Cutajar, Louise Hansen, Susan Hillel

Introduced Neil Kegie to Team.

2) Notes Notes agreed with no changes required.

3) Planning events / displays for 2009 Daniel presented a list of community presentations planned for 2009, aimed at information provision and raising awareness of community members. Flyers will be produced nearer the time for distribution and Media Releases for the local press. Team agreed to notify Daniel of any further presentations that may be of interest and possible for the City to host. Team suggested passing the health related or equipment grants and aids flyers onto to local health centres and GP practices.

Day of Disability planned for 3 December 2009, in a Shopping Centre, maybe linking to library. Aim of raising awareness of Access and what people can do so with promotion of clubs and activities.

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Attachment “CA-4” Information Items from the Community Services Directorate Page 27

4) Project updates Daniel updated the team on projects, including the new CCTV video magnifier which will be available in Armadale Library after Easter holidays. Team discussed other location possibilities depending on available and accessible space in the library. Ideal place will be the new library in the shopping centre later this year which will also incorporate an adjustable desk height.

The You’re Welcome project is waiting for the Disability Services Commission Access website to be updated. This is expected to be in May 2009.

The Team suggested Susan Hillel may have a list of recently constructed buildings with a high level of access for the You’re Welcome stage 2 list of facilities. Daniel contacting Susan Hillel for information.

Team discussed the issue of accessible shops and a recent incident of accessible toilets being used as a store room. Gail requested the Team inform her of incidents / complaints about the hospital as she can take it further. Team agreed the way to improve situation and increase awareness is to make complaints.

Team discussed the possibility of promoting accessible premises in the community with a mystery shopper writing a column in the paper informing people of best and poor access. Also identified food courts with chairs spread out so access is blocked, causing avoidance of these facilities. Lack of accessible changing rooms. Team suggested the organisation ‘People With Disabilities’ to assist people with complaints.

Lance suggested the idea of funding access consultants to assist new business in developing their access. Also to support franchises, chain stores in developing their staff awareness. Team suggested raising issue at the Board meeting on 1 May 2009.

Other Business:

5) Daniel informed the Team of a Disability Services Commission Board visit on the 1st May 2009 and invited the team to meet the board at 12.30pm to have a light lunch. This would be an opportunity for the Team to talk to the Board. Daniel has an opportunity to present an overview of projects in relation to Access and Inclusion. Mayor of Armadale attending the lunch. Gail and Sheila gave their apologies for the next meeting and Board lunch meeting on the 1 May 2009.

Information Bulletin – Issue No. 7/2009 Attachment “CA-4” Information Items from the Community Services Directorate Page 28

6) Daniel updated the Team on the Kalamunda Disability Access and Inclusion Committee visit on the 2nd June 2009. Ronald Regan the CEO of Mosiac visiting to give a brief presentation and most of the Kalamunda Disability Access and Inclusion Committee visiting. Mayor of Armadale also attending the lunch.

7) Melissa informed the Team she has been appointed to the Ministerial Advisory Council on Disability. Team congratulated Melissa. Melissa will feed back to the Team information about a recent Human Rights presentation she attended.

8) Cr Hart raised the issue of ACROD parking at events. Cr Hart suggested at a recent event the promotion of the bays could have been made more public. Daniel agreed to pass comments on to Events Coordinator.

Next meeting: Tuesday 5 May 2009, 10:00, Function Room – Council Administration building.