local government week awards evening 2012 lga conference … · 2013-10-08 · item 4: local...

Issue 30, 27 July 2012

Local Government Weekly 30/12 27 July 2012

Local Government Week Awards Evening 2012

The Local Government (LG) Week Awards Evening is fast approaching and tickets are being booked. Entries to the awards have been collected and the judging has been completed.

LGA Conference 2012 Motions

Motions for the LGA Conference may now be submitted online.

HR Metrics Benchmarking Survey

Reports including valuable comparative information on employee costs will be available to councils participating in this years’ survey at reduced rates.

Local Government Association of NSW and the Shires Association of NSW

tel: 02 9242 4000 fax: 02 9242 4111 email: [email protected] website: www.lgsa.org.au GPO Box 7003 Sydney 2001 Level 8, 28 Margaret St Sydney NSW 2000

Email subscription

Subscribe to receive the Local Government Weekly and media releases directly by email on the LGSA website at: www.lgsa.org.au/subscribe


Awards Item 1: Award opportunities

View the latest Award opportunities for Local Government

Conferences and Events Item 2: Upcoming conferences and events

View upcoming conference and events relevant to Local Government

Grants & Funding Item 3: Grant and funding opportunities for Local Government

View the latest grant and funding opportunities for Local Government

General Interest Item 4: Local Government Week Awards Evening 2012


Item 5: LGA Conference 2012 Motions


Item 6: HR Metrics Benchmarking Survey


Community Item 7: National Homelessness Research Network Event

The Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI) is holding an event as part of Homeless Persons Week called Contemporary insights into homelessness.

Item 8: Information about the Carers (Recognition) Act 2010

The NSW Department of Family and Community Services (FACS) will be conducting an information roadshow to raise public sector agencies’ awareness of their obligations under the Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 (the “Act”).

Item 9: National Food Plan Green Paper - Public Meetings

The Australian Government has released a green paper on the proposed National Food Plan for public consultation in July 2012.

Item 10: New e-Mental Health Tool Launched

The Australian Minister for Mental Health, Mark Butler MP launched a new online mental health tool designed to support people living with a mental health issue.

Item 11: Nominate for the IMAGinE Awards 2012

The Awards are a way to celebrate the achievements of council’s museum, gallery or keeping place and gain recognition amongst the broader museum and gallery sector.

Environment Item 12: Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) Carbon Pricing Claims Webinar on 16 August 2012

On Thursday 16 August, the ACCC will host an interactive webinar for small business on carbon price claims, which may be of interest to councils.

Item 13: Collaborating for Sustainability Seminar


Council officers and managers are invited to a FREE seminar offering ideas, tools and lessons to help embed sustainability in your council.

Item 14: Environmental Restoration and Rehabilitation Grants

The NSW Environmental Trust invites applications to its Environmental Restoration and Rehabilitation Program. Grants of $5,000 to $100,000 are available to Local Government organisations (total program $2 million).

Item 15: Implementing Sustainable Events Webinar

Are you looking to make your events more sustainable? Do you have a sustainable events policy, but struggling to make it happen?

Learning Item 16: Local Government Human Resources (LG HR) Conference: 14-16 November 2012, Swiss Grand Hotel, Bondi Beach, Sydney

Cheryl Kernot, former Leader of the Democrats and now Associate Professor of Social Impact at the University of NSW, will be a Keynote Speaker at the 2012 LG HR Conference.

Item 17: In-house Training Services – Presentation and Communication Skills Workshops

Learning Solutions can arrange in-house workshops to enable you to communicate confidently, deliver presentations and provide constructive feedback.

Item 18: Preventing Bullying and Harassment Training for Managers

If you lead people in Local Government, then it is vitally important for you to know your responsibilities in preventing bullying and harassment in the workplace.

Item 19: Upcoming NEW Webinars for Local Government

In the coming months, Learning Solutions will be presenting a number of short Webinars on Implementing Sustainable Events and GST and Funding via Grants and Appropriations.

Legal Item 20: Information Sessions for the Commencement of the Public Health Act 2010 and Public Health Regulation 2012

The NSW Ministry of Health has announced the Public Health Act 2010 and the Public Health Regulation 2012 will commence on Saturday 1 September 2012.

Item 21: Submissions Called for New Strata Scheme Regulations

Land and Property Information (LPI) are seeking comments or submissions from interested parties to the Strata Schemes (Freehold Development) Regulation 2012 and the Strata Scheme (Leasehold Development) Regulation 2012.

Planning Item 22: NSW Planning System Review – Extension for Green Paper Consultation

The Minister for Planning and Infrastructure, the Hon Brad Hazzard MP has announced an extension of time for council consultation on the Planning Green Paper to Friday 5 October 2012.

Item 23: Electronic Housing Code (EHC) Program Expanding to More Councils

Seven more councils have joined the Electronic Housing Code (EHC) program to upgrade local IT services to provide online assessment of simple ‘code assessed’ applications more efficiently.


Procurement Item 24: Procurement Training Modules for Local Government Staff – Sydney, Wollongong, Lake Macquarie and Dubbo

Local Government Procurement (LGP) will be providing a series of new Training Modules specifically developed for council staff who have any involvement in Purchasing, Tendering and related functions.

Roads and Transport Item 25: New Regional Air Licenses for NSW

Transport for NSW has announced that the State Government is calling for Expressions of Interest for new air licences to connect Sydney (Kingsford Smith) Airport to regional areas in NSW.

Item 26: ISF Travel Planning Design Course

The Institute for Sustainable Futures (ISF) at the University of Technology, Sydney is hosting a two day Travel Planning course as part of its Sustainable Transport Program.

Item 27: Second Sydney Airport Scoping Study Commences

The Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Anthony Albanese MP, has announced that the Federal Government has appointed technical experts and consultants for a scoping study into Wilton’s suitability as a second Sydney Airport.

Tourism Item 28: Regional NSW Accommodation Discount Promotion

NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell and Minister for Tourism and Major Events, George Souris MP, last week launched a Regional NSW tourism promotion with $1 million worth of discount accommodation vouchers aimed at encouraging city residents to take short holidays to regional NSW.

Water Item 29: Small Water and Wastewater (SWWS) National Conference

Registration is now open for the Australian Water Association’s SWWS National Conference.

In the News Item 30: Media from the LGSA

View the latest media releases distributed by the LGSA


Awards Item 1: Award opportunities

View the latest Award opportunities for Local Government

Local Government Week Awards Evening 2012


Nominate for the IMAGinE Awards 2012


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Conferences and Events Item 2: Upcoming conferences and events

View upcoming conference and events relevant to Local Government

LGA Conference 2012 Motions


National Homelessness Research Network Event


National Food Plan Green Paper - Public Meetings


Local Government Human Resources (LG HR) Conference: 14-16 November 2012, Swiss Grand Hotel, Bondi Beach, Sydney


Small Water and Wastewater (SWWS) National Conference


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Grants & Funding Item 3: Grant and funding opportunities for Local Government

View the latest grant and funding opportunities for Local Government

Environmental Restoration and Rehabilitation Grants


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Awards Evening 15 August 2012 6.30pm Civic Pavilion, on The Concourse, Chatswood

Cost $120 each or $1100 for table of 10

Purchase dinner tickets at www.lgsa.org.au/lgweek

Contact Karen Rolls 02 9242 4050 [email protected]

Ref: R11/ 0017 KR

General Interest Item 4: Local Government Week Awards Evening 2012


The RH Dougherty Awards, Reporting to Your Community category received a number of fantastic entries, including those from Moree Plains Shire Council and Rockdale City Council.

Moree Plains Shire Council: In January 2011 the northern part of Moree Plains Shire flooded with the waters from the Macintyre River.

One of the recommendations from the Flood Recovery Committee was that Council and Emergency Services investigate better ways of keeping residents and the public informed during such disasters.

Moree Plains Shire Council considered that Council’s Facebook page could be used more effectively during emergencies to get information out to the community quickly, regardless of their isolation or tyranny of distance, act as a communication path between Council, other services and the community and ensure clear and accurate information was widely available.

Moree Plains Shire Council used its Facebook page and Facebook Avatar, ‘Moreen Plains’, during the Shire’s floods in November 2011 and February 2012.

Rockdale City Council: After extensive community consultation, Council invested heavily to make their City ‘fitness friendly’ by installing combined walkways and cycleways along Lady Robinsons Beach and installing four exercise stations for the community to use free of charge, 24 hours a day, seven days per week. Council also upgraded toilet facilities in many parks.

Staff noticed that although the walkways and cycleways were being used predominately, the exercise stations were not being used to their full extent. A survey was conducted along the beachfront, asking people why they didn’t use the free equipment. Most said that although there was signage at each station with some exercises, they didn’t fully understand how to use the exercise stations.

With the online medium being a key method of delivering information quickly and precisely, it was decided to create fitness videos in-house.

Personal trainers cost a lot money, and with no budget, Council had to think creatively as to how they could get credible trainers to work for free. It was decided to ask the Royal Australian Navy for assistance.

To find out what happened at Moree Plains Shire and the fate of the Councillors at Rockdale City Council purchase your tickets to attend the prestigious dinner. Hosted by Willoughby City Council, and supported by our elite sponsor Origin Energy and media sponsor Fairfax Media, the dinner will be held at the Civic Pavilion at The Concourse, on Wednesday 15 August, with pre-drinks at 6.30pm and dinner at 7.00pm.

This is a great night of entertainment, great food and a change to reward your staff and their efforts, winners or otherwise, all councils receive recognition on the night!

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http://www.lgsa.org.au/lgweek

mailto:[email protected]


Deadline for motions Wednesday, 15 August

Online information http://www.lgsa.org.au/lgaconference

Contact Bilyana Mitrevski 02 9242 4035 [email protected]

Ref: R11/0019 BM

General Interest Item 5: LGA Conference 2012 Motions


Deadline for motions Motions must be received by close of business, Wednesday 15 August 2012. Late motions will not be accepted unless the matter is both urgent and emergent.

Submission of Motions Motions should be submitted using the online form on the Conference website. As in previous years, motions will be categorised.

Please note that the categorisation of motions has changed and should address strategic Local Government sector issues rather than specific single local issues as outlined in the correspondence sent to all mayors and general managers.

Further information on these categories are outlined on the LGSA website at http://www.lgsa.org.au/lgaconference.

Business Papers Business papers will be available on the LGSA website. A draft business paper will be available to download and hard copies of the published business paper will be distributed to Member Councils approximately one month from the Conference.

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http://www.lgsa.org.au/lgaconference





Survey due Friday 24 August

Online information http://www.lgsa.org.au/local-government-management-solutions/hr-benchmarking

Contact Gregor Ptok, HR Consultant [email protected] 0409 121 645

Elizabeth Barron, HR Consultant [email protected] 0400 945 916

Ref: I98/0017-02 GP

General Interest Item 6: HR Metrics Benchmarking Survey


Reporting and background to survey Developed by Local Government Management Solutions (LGMS) unit with significant input from the industry, 56 councils participated in last year’s inaugural survey. A range of reports are offered, including comparison against similar-sized councils across NSW or councils in the same region.

Benefits of participating

The survey is designed to prompt questioning in key areas of performance and financial risk.

Participation will assist other councils by ensuring there is a good sample of industry-wide comparative data.

Councils with limited reporting capability are able to join the project through completing a minimum set of measures rather than the full survey.

All participating councils will be access basic reporting across all measures.

Measures reported

The minimum set of measures includes:

Headcount and Demographics.

Voluntary Turnover.

Excess Annual and Long Service Leave Liability.

The full set of measures also includes:

Unplanned Absence Rate (three measures).

Workplace Health and Safety (five measures).

Learning & Development Investment (three measures).

Survey form and participation

The survey form has been distributed to all members of the LGSA HR Group. Copies can also be requested from Gregor Ptok or Elizabeth Barron. Completed survey forms must be received by the close of business on Friday 24 August 2012.

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http://www.lgsa.org.au/local-government-management-solutions/hr-benchmarking






Date 8.30am – 12.30pm, Friday 10 August

Venue SMC Conference and Function Centre, 66 Gouldburn St, Sydney

Registration fee $45 excluding GST

Register via website http://www.cvent.com/events/contemporary-insights-into-homelessness/event-summary-488dca07913649a3acd52ec13d59c238.aspx

Ref: R90/1106-03 NB

Community Item 7: National Homelessness Research Network Event


The event will present the findings from two new AHURI research projects:

Intergenerational homelessness and the use of homelessness services by Professor Paul Flatau (AHURI Research Centre—University of Western Australia).

Homelessness and Housing First: issues for Australian policy and practice by Dr Guy Johnson (AHURI Research Centre—RMIT University).

Ms Cat Gander (Homelessness Australia) will welcome delegates to the event. Dr Shelley Mallett (General Manager, Hanover) and Dr Catherine Robinson (Senior Lecturer, University of Technology Sydney) will provide discussion and comment on the findings.

The seminar will close with a group discussion and Q&A facilitated by Dr Andrew Hollows (Deputy Executive Director, AHURI Limited). See fact box for event details and registration.

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http://www.cvent.com/events/contemporary-insights-into-homelessness/event-summary-488dca07913649a3acd52ec13d59c238.aspx






Key Details Roadshows by region over the next few months

Online information www.facs.nsw.gov.au

Contact Katherine Stone Principal Policy Officer Carer Legislation 02 9277 5653 [email protected]

Ref: R96/0126 MK

Community Item 8: Information about the Carers (Recognition) Act 2010

The NSW Department of Family and Community Services (FACS) will be conducting an information roadshow to raise public sector agencies’ awareness of their obligations under the Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 (the “Act”).

The Act establishes a ‘NSW Carers Charter’ (the ‘Charter’) and imposes obligations on public sector agencies aimed at increasing awareness and recognition of the role and contribution of carers to their communities.

The Act defines a public sector agency to include a council.

The obligations under the Act include a requirement that councils take all reasonable steps to ensure that the members of staff and agents of the council have an awareness and understanding of the Charter. A council must also consult with such bodies representing carers as the council considers appropriate when developing policies that impact on carers. Further, a council’s internal human resources policies, so far as they may significantly affect the role of a member of staff of the council as a carer, are to be developed having due regard to the Charter.

Roadshows are targeted at senior managers and senior human resource staff and will be available across NSW in coming months, delivered region by region. FACS will write directly to councils, as well as other government agencies in the area, to let them know when the roadshow will be available in their region.

Councils should contact the LGSA’s Industrial Relations (IR) Unit for advice regarding the particular provisions of the Local Government (State) Award 2010 that may apply where employees are required to exercise carers’ responsibilities. The officers of the IR Unit may be contacted on 02 9242 4142 or [email protected].

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http://www.facs.nsw.gov.au/



Dates and locations Sydney – Tuesday 14 August, 7–9 pm Bega – Thursday 6 September, 7–9 pm Lismore – Wednesday 5 September, 7–9 pm Orange – Tuesday 4 September, 7–9 pm Penrith – Monday 13 August, 7–9 pm

To register your attendance for public meeting http://www.daff.gov.au/nationalfoodplan/process-to-develop/green-paper/registration-form

Green paper http://www.daff.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/2175156/national-food-plan-green-paper-072012.pdf

Ref: R90/0132-08 MB

Community Item 9: National Food Plan Green Paper - Public Meetings


As part of the process in developing the first National Food Plan, a series of public meetings are being conducted following the release of the National Food Plan green paper. Dates and details of these are included in the fact box. A link is also included to register your attendance for the public meetings.

The Australian Government is seeking feedback on ideas from the green paper before making any decisions on changes or new initiatives relating to the development of the National Food Plan. The link to the green paper is in the fact box.

Councils are encouraged to review the green paper and/or attend one of the public meetings as per details in the fact box.

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http://www.daff.gov.au/nationalfoodplan/process-to-develop/green-paper/registration-form




http://www.daff.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/2175156/national-food-plan-green-paper-072012.pdf





myCompass online tool https://www.mycompass.org.au/

Ref: R92/0107-04 MB

Community Item 10: New e-Mental Health Tool Launched

The Australian Minister for Mental Health, Mark Butler MP launched a new online mental health tool designed to support people living with a mental health issue.

The new online tool is an interactive program that includes online psychological tools, round-the clock monitoring of moods and behaviour and motivational tips via email and SMS. This new online mental health tool, myCompass, assesses user symptoms, and provides a personalised support program.

It was developed by a team of health professionals at the Black Dog Institute.

Councils may wish to circulate this information to their communities.

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https://www.mycompass.org.au/


Website http://mgnsw.org.au/sector_development/imagine_awards_2012/

The 2012 IMAGinE awards night White Rabbit Gallery, Chippendale on 23 November 2012.

Open for Nominations until 5pm, Friday 7 September

IMAGinE awards enquiries Museums & Galleries NSW Regional NSW freecall: 1800 114 311 02 9358 1760 [email protected]

Ref: R11/0027 CB

Community Item 11: Nominate for the IMAGinE Awards 2012


The LGSA are proud to be partnering with Museums and Galleries NSW on the 2012 IMAGinE awards. The Awards acknowledge exhibitions, programs and projects that occurred in the period 1 July 2011 to 30 June 2012.

The IMAGinE awards

Celebrate the excellence of a museum or gallery, whether it’s volunteer-run or staff paid.

Promote the significant contribution that volunteers and paid individuals in museums, galleries and Aboriginal cultural centres make to their communities.

Promote and benchmark best practice in collection management, exhibitions, education and public programs.

Provide opportunities to forge links with other museums, galleries and Aboriginal cultural Centres.

Who can enter the IMAGinE awards? Public museums and galleries in NSW, Aboriginal keeping places and cultural centres, not-for profit organisations such as artist-run initiatives and volunteer run museums and galleries are welcome to nominate. Nominees must be directly linked with an ongoing exhibiting or collecting space.

Nomination categories The following categories are broken down into four sections depending on the size of your organisation:

Collection Management.

Exhibitions and Public Engagement.

Education and Audience Development.

Individual Achievement.

Organisation sizes Level A: Volunteer-run and staffed organisations. Level B: Organisations with 1-4 paid staff in the entire organisation. Level C: Organisations with 5-20 paid staff in the entire organisation. Level D: Organisations with more than 21 paid staff in the entire organisation.

The IMAGinE awards, an initiative of Museums & Galleries NSW, have been developed in collaboration with the LGSA, Regional & Public Galleries NSW and Museums Australia NSW. The IMAGinE awards are made possible by the support of the NSW Government through Arts NSW, and the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body.

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http://mgnsw.org.au/sector_development/imagine_awards_2012/

http://mgnsw.org.au/sector_development/imagine_awards_2012/



Webinar Thursday 16 August 2012 10.00am - 11.00am

To register www.accc.gov.au/carbon

Ref: R90/1011 RV

Environment Item 12: Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) Carbon Pricing Claims Webinar on 16 August 2012

On Thursday 16 August, the ACCC will host an interactive webinar for small business on carbon price claims, which may be of interest to councils.

This is an opportunity for small businesses to ask the ACCC key questions about carbon price claims and representations.

Through a question and answer session, the ACCC will provide further guidance and updated information for small businesses about their rights and obligations, including tips and considerations to bear in mind if their business is thinking about making a claim linked to the carbon price.

As councils interact with small business on a regular basis, this webinar may be of interest.

The interactive webinar will include a presentation from Dr Michael Schaper, ACCC Deputy Chair, for this interactive session on key carbon price claims issues for businesses.

To register go to www.accc.gov.au/carbon.

ACCC business guidance and further information about the ACCC’s carbon price claims role is available at www.accc.gov.au/carbon and also on the ACCC Carbon Price Claims Hotline, 1300 303 609.

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http://www.accc.gov.au/carbon




Workshops Wednesday 22 August – Ballina Friday 24 August – Wagga Wagga Tuesday 28 August – Sydney

Register http://ceechange.wufoo.com/forms/registration

Please register your attendance by Wednesday 15 August

Online information http://www.kmc.nsw.gov.au/www/html/4888-ceechange-in-your-council.asp

Contact Jaala Haynes 02 9424 0893 [email protected]

Ref: 04/0010 DA

Environment Item 13: Collaborating for Sustainability Seminar

Council officers and managers are invited to a FREE seminar offering ideas, tools and lessons to help embed sustainability in your council.

The seminars will be held in Ballina, Wagga Wagga and Sydney. Register now as places are limited to three per council.

These events are presented by the CEEchange Program, a two-year program involving a number of NSW councils, including Coffs Harbour City Council, the City of Sydney, Ku-ring-gai Council, Mosman Council and Wyong Council. The CEEchange Program has been supported by the NSW Government through its Environmental Trust.

Various collaborative, engagement and educative techniques were trialled during the Program to help overcome barriers to sustainability which are common to Local Government.

Attendees will:

Receive a free comprehensive Collaborating for Sustainability guide.

Learn about the potential of collaborative networks for their council, including the development of ‘green teams’.

Connect and share experiences with their Local Government peers.

Listen to case studies on sustainability activities presented by CEEchange councils.

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http://ceechange.wufoo.com/forms/registration

http://ceechange.wufoo.com/forms/registration

http://www.kmc.nsw.gov.au/www/html/4888-ceechange-in-your-council.asp





Applications close Friday 31 August

Workshop bookings 02 8837 6093 [email protected]

Online information Guidelines, application forms and more information is available at www.environmentaltrust.nsw.gov.au

Ref: R90/1112-04 DA

Environment Item 14: Environmental Restoration and Rehabilitation Grants


The objectives of the Environmental Restoration and Rehabilitation (R&R) program are:

To restore degraded environmental resources, including rare and endangered ecosystems.

To protect important ecosystems and habitats of rare and endangered flora and fauna.

To prevent or minimise future environmental damage.

To enhance the quality of specific environmental resources.

To improve the capacity of eligible organisations to protect, restore and enhance the environment.

To undertake resource recovery and waste avoidance projects and to prevent and/or reduce pollution.

Workshops The Trust will be holding workshops to assist potential applicants to its Restoration and Rehabilitation Program in 2012 by providing information on effective project planning, monitoring and evaluation and best practice in environmental restoration.

Please also join the Emerging and Best Practice Environmental Restoration Forum to hear from industry leaders and share experiences with others in your region.

Times R&R Grants Program workshops 10am – 2pm or 5.30pm – 8pm Emerging and Best Practice Environmental Restoration 2pm – 4pm

Dates and locations

Monday 30 July: Cessnock Thursday 2 August: Dubbo Tuesday 7 August: Wagga Wagga Thursday 9 August: Nowra Tuesday 14 August: Coffs Harbour Thursday 16 August: Sydney (face to face plus webinar)

For bookings call (02) 8837 6093 or email [email protected]

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http://www.environmentaltrust.nsw.gov.au/

http://www.environmentaltrust.nsw.gov.au/


Date 2.30-3.30pm (AEST), Tuesday 21 August

Registrations http://www.lgsa.org.au/events-training/webinars

Contact

Learning Solutions 02 9242 4181 [email protected]

Ref: I98/0012 DR

Environment Item 15: Implementing Sustainable Events Webinar

Are you looking to make your events more sustainable? Do you have a sustainable events policy, but struggling to make it happen?

This online training session will provide you with tools, tips and tricks to ensure you are delivering on sustainability, not just talking about it.

All participants will receive access to practical resources including a free guide to the Standard for Sustainable Event Management Systems ISO 20121.

The webinar will be a master class style training session that looks beyond what is sustainable event management to how to put theory into practice.

It will highlight the current tools available to help NSW councils to implement more sustainable events. Council case studies will be used to illustrate best practice and helpful tips.

It will be highly interactive with plenty of opportunities to ask questions. This session will not only provide you with access to practical resources it aims to have you leave feeling inspired and energised ready to take action.

What you will learn:

Which tools can help you plan, produce and report on event sustainability. Practical tips from NSW councils implementing sustainable events. Trick of the trade that will save you time and money.

Who should attend: Event managers, sustainability and environment staff, community development officers, personal and executive assistants, and communications staff. Anyone who is involved in council events would benefit from attendance at this webinar.

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http://www.lgsa.org.au/events-training/webinars




Date Wednesday 14 – Friday 16 November

Location Swiss Grand Hotel, Bondi Beach, Sydney To book a room call reservations on 02 9365 9726 and quote the booking code “LGA1411” to get the conference rate.

Cost Early Bird: $990 per person GST inclusive (register by 19 October)

Registrations http://www.lgsa.org.au/events-training/seminars-workshops

Contact Learning Solutions 02 9242 4181 [email protected]

Website www.lgsa.org.au

Ref: I98/0012 DR

Learning Item 16: Local Government Human Resources (LG HR) Conference: 14-16 November 2012, Swiss Grand Hotel, Bondi Beach, Sydney


Themed ‘HR - employ, enthuse and engage’, the LG HR Conference is the premier annual Local Government human resource event.

Ms Kernot will be joined by the following speakers:

Ross Woodward, Director General of the Division of Local Government.

Avril Henry, Corporate Motivator.

Don Dunoon, International speaker and Author of ‘In the Leadership Mode’.

The Conference will also feature a unique iReader session - “HR Celebrity Bio’s”, and also a panel session of General Managers to discuss “Human resource challenges when you are under the microscope”.

There will also be eight MasterClass workshops including a talent management case study by Randwick City Council called “Step Up” and sessions on retiring retirement – creating a dynamic mature workforce; social media; an IR perspective on workplace change and employee engagement; creating a sustainable workforce with zero harm; and how to manage difficult employees.

We are expecting over 100 Local Government peers at this year’s HR Conference.

Save the dates in your diary and register now to take advantage of the early bird rate.

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http://www.lgsa.org.au/events-training/seminars-workshops

http://www.lgsa.org.au/events-training/seminars-workshops

http://www.lgsa.org.au/


Further information http://www.lgsa.org.au/www/html/153-in-house-training-services.asp

Contact Judy Archer Learning Solutions 02 9242 4180 [email protected]

Ref: I98/0012 DR

Learning Item 17: In-house Training Services – Presentation and Communication Skills Workshops

Learning Solutions can arrange in-house workshops to enable you to communicate confidently, deliver presentations and provide constructive feedback.

Dynamic Presentation Skills If you want to hook your audience and get your message across more effectively, with a ‘call to action’ then this workshop is for you. It will help to make you more confident and dynamic when delivering presentations.

Assertiveness Skills Do you want to communicate more clearly and confidently? Would you like to get your ideas across in a respectful, considerate, effective way? Would you benefit from feeling more in control of yourself when talking to others? If you answered yes to any of these questions, this program is for you.

Communicating Effectively So many of us struggle with various situations, such as needing to say ‘no’ to unreasonable requests, listening effectively, dealing with ‘difficult’ people, or effectively using the various modes of communication. This workshop is designed to help you become more successful and effective in your interpersonal relationships by enhancing your communication skills in critical areas.

Giving and Receiving Feedback It is important for staff to be aware of how they are doing at work and to know whether they are meeting performance expectations. The better the feedback, the clearer everyone is about expected performance. This workshop covers both the essentials in setting performance expectations and the skills and approaches required to become more effective when providing feedback to your staff.

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http://www.lgsa.org.au/www/html/153-in-house-training-services.asp





Date and Location Monday 3 September Sydney

Cost 1 day workshop $550 inc. GST

Registrations http://www.lgsa.org.au/events-training/courses-staff

Contact Jennifer Fanning Learning Solutions 02 9242 4181 [email protected]

Ref: I98/0012 DR

Learning Item 18: Preventing Bullying and Harassment Training for Managers

If you lead people in Local Government, then it is vitally important for you to know your responsibilities in preventing bullying and harassment in the workplace.

This Local Government Learning Solutions workshop will provide participants with the knowledge and skills, to actively participate in the prevention and management of bullying and harassment in the workplace.

Content

By the end of this module you will be able to:

Discuss the reasons for managers not acting early when noticing bullying/harassment, and the consequences of not acting.

Conduct an effective discussion with a person who states they have been subjected to bullying/harassing behaviour.

Use the specific communication process and skills necessary for the discussion.

Provide feedback to a person whom you have noticed adopting bullying/harassing behaviour.

Be aware of the limitations of your role.

Identify other resources/who else can help/who can support the supervisor.

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http://www.lgsa.org.au/events-training/courses-staff

http://www.lgsa.org.au/events-training/courses-staff


Webinar dates Tuesday 21 and Thursday 23 August

Registrations http://www.lgsa.org.au/events-training/webinars

Contact Learning Solutions 02 9242 4181 [email protected]

Ref: I98/0012 DR

Learning Item 19: Upcoming NEW Webinars for Local Government

In the coming months, Learning Solutions will be presenting a number of short Webinars on Implementing Sustainable Events and GST and Funding via Grants and Appropriations.

Implementing Sustainable Events

Tuesday 21 August - 2.30-3.30pm (AEST)

Are you looking to make your events more sustainable? Do you have a sustainable events policy but are struggling to make it happen? This session will provide you with tools and tips on how to ensure you are effectively delivering sustainable practices, not just talking about it.

GST and Funding via Grants and Appropriations Thursday 23 August 11am-1pm (AEST)

There is now a clear way forward in how you must treat grants and appropriations for GST purposes. In recent times there has been confusion in this area. However, due to new legislation, and a public ruling, full compliance is expected from here on.

This Webinar is designed to give you the practical understanding and tools in relation to your GST compliance around your funding arrangements from this point on.

Other Upcoming Webinars include:

Social Media in Local Government – Wednesday, 8 August - 2-3.30pm (AEST). Handling Difficult People – Friday, 24 August - 2-3.30pm (AEST). Leadership in Local Government - Update – Tuesday, 18 September - 2.30-4pm (AEST). Speed Reading for Local Government – Thursday, 6 December- 2-3.30pm (AEST).

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Dates and locations Tamworth Wednesday, 22 August Grafton Thursday, 23 August Queanbeayan Monday, 27 August Wagga Tuesday, 28 August Sydney CBD Wednesday, 29 August Newcastle Friday, 31 August Dubbo Monday, 3 September Penrith Tuesday, 4 September Kiama Thursday, 6 September

A 90 minute webinar with priority for remote and rural councils will also be provided.

Bookings http://publichealthlgnsw.wufoo.com/forms/z7x3x5/

Contact Hazel Storey [email protected] 0411 702 554

Ref: R96/0060-02 MB

Legal Item 20: Information Sessions for the Commencement of the Public Health Act 2010 and Public Health Regulation 2012

The NSW Ministry of Health has announced the Public Health Act 2010 and the Public Health Regulation 2012 will commence on Saturday 1 September 2012.

To support the implementation of these, a number of information sessions for Local Government and public health staff will commence on Wednesday 22 August 2012.

The workshops will use specially developed scenarios and discussions about practical application of the new legislation to support regulators in understanding their responsibilities under the new Act and Regulation.

The workshops will be delivered by T-Issues Consultancy with The Storey Agency. Details of when the workshops will be held are in the fact box. To book in a spot for your attendance, please click on the link in the fact box.

The LGSA strongly encourage all councils to attend the workshops to gain a good understanding of their roles under the new Act and Regulation.

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http://publichealthlgnsw.wufoo.com/forms/z7x3x5/

http://publichealthlgnsw.wufoo.com/forms/z7x3x5/



Contact Frank Loveridge Legal Officer 02 9242 4125 or [email protected]

Ref: R90/0864-02 FL

Legal Item 21: Submissions Called for New Strata Scheme Regulations

Land and Property Information (LPI) are seeking comments or submissions from interested parties to the Strata Schemes (Freehold Development) Regulation 2012 and the Strata Scheme (Leasehold Development) Regulation 2012.

LPI propose to remake the Strata Scheme Regulations. The proposed Regulations are intended to repeal and remake, with minor changes, the Regulations and to begin on Saturday 1 September 2012.

The Regulatory Impact Statement is available on the LPI website www.lpi.nsw.gov.au.

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http://www.lpi.nsw.gov.au/



Release of Green Paper 14 July 2012

Closing date for submissions Extended to 5 October 2012

New Planning System for NSW (Department of Planning & Infrastructure web site) http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/a-new-planning-system-for-nsw

LGSA Media Release http://www.lgsa.org.au/news/media-release/media-release-bold-proposals-new-planning-system

NSW Planning System Review web site http://www.planningreview.nsw.gov.au/Home/tabid/77/Default.aspx

LGSA March 2012 Submission http://www.lgsa.org.au/sites/lgsa.org.au/files/imce-uploads/35/lgsa-submission-to-dec-issues-paper-feb2012-Final.pdf

Ref: R04/0066 JP

Planning Item 22: NSW Planning System Review – Extension for Green Paper Consultation

The Minister for Planning and Infrastructure, the Hon Brad Hazzard MP has announced an extension of time for council consultation on the Planning Green Paper to Friday 5 October 2012.

The Green Paper with recommendations for a new planning system in NSW was released on Saturday, 14 July 2012. The extension of the formal closing date for submissions is in response to concerns about the timing of the consultation period, with the original closing date for submissions (Friday, 14 September 2012) coming close on the heels of the Local Government elections on Saturday, 8 September 2012.

Many of the new proposals have significant implications for how councils will operate in the future. Councils are therefore encouraged to assist in progressing the review of the planning system by making submissions on the Green Paper.

A White Paper will be released later this year, providing more detail on how the new system will be implemented. Further community input will be invited on the White Paper. It is the Government’s intention to present the new legislation to the NSW Parliament in early 2013.

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http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/a-new-planning-system-for-nsw

http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/a-new-planning-system-for-nsw

http://www.lgsa.org.au/news/media-release/media-release-bold-proposals-new-planning-system



http://www.planningreview.nsw.gov.au/Home/tabid/77/Default.aspx

http://www.planningreview.nsw.gov.au/Home/tabid/77/Default.aspx

http://www.lgsa.org.au/sites/lgsa.org.au/files/imce-uploads/35/lgsa-submission-to-dec-issues-paper-feb2012-Final.pdf





Online information http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/eplanning

http://www.ehc.nsw.gov.au/

Contacts John Hudson Director, Sustainable Systems, Department of Planning & Infrastructure 02 9228 6517 [email protected]

Jenny Dennis Senior Policy Officer – Planning, LGSA 02 9242 4094

Ref: R09/0015 JD

Planning Item 23: Electronic Housing Code (EHC) Program Expanding to More Councils

Seven more councils have joined the Electronic Housing Code (EHC) program to upgrade local IT services to provide online assessment of simple ‘code assessed’ applications more efficiently.

The Department of Planning and Infrastructure recently announced that seven NSW councils will share $190,000 to assist in applying the Electronic Housing Code locally. This funding will enable homeowners and builders to access fast tracked online approval for simple developments. These approvals are for complying developments that can be approved under the General Housing Code.

The councils that will join the program are Camden, Holroyd, Kogarah, Penrith, Warringah, Willoughby and Wingecarribee, with another four councils likely to be allocated funding in the next few months.

The Electronic Housing Code is already operational in ten council areas including Bankstown, Blacktown, Lake Macquarie, Port Macquarie, Rockdale, Shellharbour, Sutherland, Tamworth, The Hills and Tweed councils.

The funding assists councils in buying software and computer equipment, plus training staff to upgrade the land and property information on councils systems, to implement the new system.

The EHC program is being implemented in conjunction with the LGSA.

Please note, that additional councils will be invited to submit expressions of interest to join the program later this year.

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http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/eplanning

http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/eplanning

http://www.ehc.nsw.gov.au/



Cost of the modules $275 inc. GST per half day module and $550 inc. GST per full day module

Contact Shalan Rao, LGP Business Manager Training 02 8270 8703 [email protected]

LGP’s website http://www.lgp.org.au/councils/procurement-training-and-certificate-iv-qualification

Contact LGP 02 8270 8703 [email protected]

Ref: R05/0057 EM

Procurement Item 24: Procurement Training Modules for Local Government Staff – Sydney, Wollongong, Lake Macquarie and Dubbo

Local Government Procurement (LGP) will be providing a series of new Training Modules specifically developed for council staff who have any involvement in Purchasing, Tendering and related functions.

The training courses are half or full day modules that have been developed based on constant feedback from staff and recent ICAC developments around procurement functions. The modules are delivered by LGP staff and include full course notes and a certificate of completion. The courses have been developed with the specific needs of NSW councils in mind.

The modules will be conducted at the metropolitan and regional locations below:

Module Sydney Wollongong Lake Macquarie

Dubbo

Tendering Requirements 9 August 13 August 27 August 17 September

Specification Writing 5 September 13 August 27 August 17 September

Stores and Inventory Management

4 September 14 August 28 August 18 September

Contract Management 6 September 15 August 29 August 19 September

Basic Purchasing 7 August 16 August 30 August 20 September

Advanced Purchasing 8 August 17 August 31 August 21 September

Further regional locations include: Eurobodalla (October) and Goulburn (November).

The full training schedule for Sydney CBD and regional locations is available on LGP’s website (see fact box).

Local Government Procurement Pty Ltd (LGP) is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Local Government and Shires Associations of New South Wales (LGSA).

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http://www.lgp.org.au/councils/procurement-training-and-certificate-iv-qualification





TNSW Media Release http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/b2b/releases/120724-air-licences-eoi.pdf

Transport for NSW Aviation Website http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/content/air-transport-regulation-and-licensing-nsw

Ref: R90/0846 RC

Roads and Transport Item 25: New Regional Air Licenses for NSW

Transport for NSW has announced that the State Government is calling for Expressions of Interest for new air licences to connect Sydney (Kingsford Smith) Airport to regional areas in NSW.

Air Services within NSW linking smaller communities to Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport are regulated by the NSW Government, under the Air Transport Act 1964 (the Act).

Regulated routes are generally those routes linked to Sydney (Kingsford Smith) Airport which have fewer than 50,000 passengers annually. Currently there are 14 regulated routes and the licence period for these services expires in March 2013.

The Minister for Transport has approved the continuation of the current framework for a renewed licence term. NSW intrastate air routes (to/from Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport) will continue to be regulated unless declared deregulated by the Minister.

The new licences will start in March 2013.

Further information for potential applicants is available at www.transport.nsw.gov.au/air.

Regional airlines can apply for both existing and new routes. Regulated routes include services from Sydney to: Merimbula, Parkes, Broken Hill, Bathurst, Moree, Lord Howe Island, Moruya, Taree, Grafton, Narrabri, Narrandera, Mudgee, Cobar and Cooma.

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http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/air

http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/b2b/releases/120724-air-licences-eoi.pdf



http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/content/air-transport-regulation-and-licensing-nsw




Dates Monday 20 and Tuesday 21 August

Cost $1,500 (incl. GST) with a range of discounts available until 3 August.

Registration https://shortcourses-bookings.uts.edu.au/ClientView/Schedules/ScheduleDetail.aspx?ScheduleID=812&EventID=769

Contact 02 9514 2913 [email protected]

Ref: R90/0481 RC

Roads and Transport Item 26: ISF Travel Planning Design Course

The Institute for Sustainable Futures (ISF) at the University of Technology, Sydney is hosting a two day Travel Planning course as part of its Sustainable Transport Program.

This two day short course focuses on the Travel Planning methodology, enabling course participants to carry out Travel Plans and specify them as part of the conditions of consent for development applications, adapting the generic elements to a wide range different settings and clients. The course also focuses on issues around engaging with key decision-makers including the use of business friendly language and presentation methods that reduce the need for long reports.

The course is accredited for professional development points including PIA, CILTA and AIA.

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https://shortcourses-bookings.uts.edu.au/ClientView/Schedules/ScheduleDetail.aspx?ScheduleID=812&EventID=769






Download the Minister’s Media Release http://www.minister.infrastructure.gov.au/aa/releases/2012/July/aa155_2012.aspx

LGSA Contact Richard Connors 02 9242 4073 [email protected]

Ref: R90/0846 RC

Roads and Transport Item 27: Second Sydney Airport Scoping Study Commences

The Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Anthony Albanese MP, has announced that the Federal Government has appointed technical experts and consultants for a scoping study into Wilton’s suitability as a second Sydney Airport.

The scoping study will involve detailed economic, social and environmental investigations to assess the impact and viability of an airport at Wilton.

It will also explore the use of RAAF Base Richmond for limited civil operations, including any social, economic and environmental impacts.

The main purpose of the study is to identify as early as possible the challenges and the opportunities of any airport development.

While these investigations take place, the Minister has committed to a process of consultation and engagement with the community, including with affected local councils.

The scoping study is expected to take at least six months.

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http://www.minister.infrastructure.gov.au/aa/releases/2012/July/aa155_2012.aspx





Media Release http://www.destinationnsw.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/121159/Largest-regional-tourism-promotion-in-States-history.pdf

Destination NSW Website http://www.visitnsw.com/deals/getaways

Ref: R91/0109 EM

Tourism Item 28: Regional NSW Accommodation Discount Promotion

NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell and Minister for Tourism and Major Events, George Souris MP, last week launched a Regional NSW tourism promotion with $1 million worth of discount accommodation vouchers aimed at encouraging city residents to take short holidays to regional NSW.

Sydneysiders are the key target market for short breaks in regional NSW - spending 4.4 million nights in other parts of the state each year.

However, the perceived cost of accommodation is often cited in research as a reason for delaying a trip.

This campaign, based on vouchers worth $200 each, will encourage more people to explore and discover the outstanding attractions, festivals, natural environment and superb cuisine offered by regional NSW.

The ‘Make Some Our Time’ promotion would feature a partnership with Westfield Shopping Centres in eight Sydney locations.

Further information is available at the Destination NSW website at: http://www.visitnsw.com/deals/getaways

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http://www.visitnsw.com/deals/getaways

http://www.destinationnsw.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/121159/Largest-regional-tourism-promotion-in-States-history.pdf







Conference dates Wednesday 26 – Friday 28 September

Location Newcastle, NSW

Online information www.awa.asn.au/swwsconference

Further information www.awa.asn.au/swwsconference

Contact Sarah Masters 02 9467 8428 [email protected]

Ref: R95/0016 NB

Water Item 29: Small Water and Wastewater (SWWS) National Conference


Are you up to date in your knowledge of decentralised water systems? Do you want the opportunity to learn more and share your experiences?

Decentralised water systems are re-emerging as long-term solutions to water scarcity and constraints of the centralised approach.

This is an essential research, knowledge-sharing and networking event for anyone involved in the planning, delivery, approval, research, use and construction of decentralised, onsite and other small water and wastewater systems.

Make sure you are up to date and attend at AWA’s Small Water and Wastewater Systems National Conference in Newcastle.

Keynote Speakers

Joining the program will be keynote speaker Dr Robert Siegrist. Dr. Siegrist is an internationally recognised expert in onsite water reclamation using natural systems and appropriate technology, and in situ remediation of contaminated soil and groundwater using active and passive physicochemical and coupled bioprocess technologies.

He will be joined by Joe Van Belleghem, Director of Sustainability Solutions at Lend Lease. Joe has provided expertise to corporate and government clients on sustainable urban regeneration and green infrastructure projects – projects that are not just ecologically restorative, but also socially responsible and economically profitable.

The final keynote speaker is Ted Gardner, Senior Research Fellow at IRIS in the University of Central Queensland. Ted led the development of the MEDLI effluent irrigation model, which is still in active use today, to design both communal and domestic effluent schemes, and has led work on assessing the sustainability of on-site disposal systems at a catchment scale. Ted’s current role is to advance the research capacity in water & associated energy issues.

On the final day there will be a workshop on resilience delivered by researchers from the Institute for Sustainable Futures and a technical tour exploring the local area and the sensitivity of receiving waters to onsite wastewater systems.

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http://www.awa.asn.au/swwsconference

http://www.awa.asn.au/swwsconference



In the News Item 30: Media from the LGSA

View the latest media releases distributed by the LGSA

Media Release: LGSA calls on Infrastructure NSW to extend funding program for country water and sewerage utilities

26 July 2012

http://www.lgsa.org.au/news/media-release/media-release-lgsa-calls-infrastructure-nsw-extend-funding-program-country-water

The Local Water Utilities Inquiry, funding for water and sewerage infrastructure in regional and rural towns and climate change impacts were the key topics discussed on the third and final day of the 2012 LGSA Water Management Conference, held in Wagga Wagga from 22 – 24 July 2012.

Media Release: Councils welcome extension of Planning Green Paper deadline

26 July 2012

http://www.lgsa.org.au/news/media-release/meia-release-councils-welcome-extension-planning-green-paper-deadline

The Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW (LGSA) have welcomed the extension of the consultation deadline for the Planning system Green Paper following calls from NSW councils to be given more time to respond.

Media Release: There’s something in the water (LGSA Water Management Conference)

23 July 2012

http://www.lgsa.org.au/news/media-release/media-release-there%E2%80%99s-something-water-lgsa-water-management-conference

Local Government owned and run water utilities have been given the thumbs up for their efficient and sustainable management on the second day of the 2012 Water Management Conference held in Wagga Wagga, NSW.

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local government week awards evening 2012 lga conference … · 2013-10-08 · item 4: local...

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