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TRANSCRIPT
Weekly Issue 21, 24 May 2013
Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 1
Independent LGNSW Member Survey – Opens on Monday
LGNSW has commissioned an independent market research organisation to undertake a member research project to be completed by NSW mayors, general managers and councillors.
LGNSW Cost Shifting Survey for 2011/12 Financial Year
LGNSW is now undertaking its cost shifting survey. NSW councils are invited to complete the survey on the LGNSW website.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT NSW
GPO BOX 7003 SYDNEY NSW 2001 L8, 28 MARGARET ST SYDNEY NSW 2000 T 02 9242 4000 F 02 9242 4111 LGNSW.ORG.AU [email protected]
ABN 49 853 913 882
EMAIL SUBSCRIPTION
LGNSW.ORG.AU/SUBSCRIBE
Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 2
Contents page
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 and Funding
Item 3: Grant and funding opportunities for Local Government
View the latest grant and funding opportunities for Local Government
General Interest
Item 4: Independent LGNSW Member Survey – Opens on Monday
LGNSW has commissioned an independent market research organisation to undertake a member research project to be completed by NSW mayors, general managers and councillors.
Item 5: RH Dougherty Awards – Enter Online Now
Councils wishing to enter the 2013 RH Dougherty Awards need to prepare their submissions and enter online by Friday 14 June.
Item 6: The A.R. Bluett Memorial Award
Entries for this year’s A.R. Bluett Memorial Award will open on Saturday 1 June.
Item 7: Regional Achievement and Community Awards 2013
Entry for the Awards is now open. LGNSW encourages councils and communities to apply.
Community
Item 8: War Memorial Fund – Apply for Grants Now
The NSW Government has established a fund to help protect and restore war memorials across NSW. Grant applications for restoration projects close on Friday 7 June 2013.
Economic Development
Item 9: Digital Enterprise Program – Open for Applications
The Digital Enterprise Program provides free training and support for small to medium enterprises and not-for-profit organisations to help improve the way they do business and deliver services online.
Item 10: Digital Local Government Program – Round Four
The Program provides funding to encourage Local Government to develop online services that make use of the capabilities of the National Broadband Network (NBN).
Environment
Item 11: International Biodiversity Conference for Local Government
The City of Joondalup in Western Australia will host an international environment conference to showcase some of the world’s leading experts in climate change and environmental sustainability.
Item 12: Local Government Energy Efficiency Program Closing
The Australian Government will cease funding for the Local Government Energy Efficiency Program (LGEEP) under the Low Carbon Communities initiative. Applications close next Friday 31 May.
Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 3
Item 13: National Flying Fox Monitoring Program
The Program is managed by the Commonwealth Government and CSIRO to coordinate a collaborative effort across government, councils and the community to monitor flying fox numbers.
Item 14: Review into Funding Framework for Local Land Services
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal of NSW (IPART) is calling for public submissions on how the new Local Land Services NSW (LLS) boards should fund their services and functions.
Item 15: Waste Less, Recycle More Consultation Workshops
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is developing the program areas under the new $465.7 million Waste Less, Recycle More initiative. Consultation Workshops will be held in June at several NSW locations.
Finance
Item 16: LGNSW Cost Shifting Survey for 2011/12 Financial Year
LGNSW is now undertaking its cost shifting survey. NSW councils are invited to complete the survey on the LGNSW website.
Learning
Item 17: Councillor Professional Development Workshops in June and July
LGNSW Learning Solutions is presenting a suite of Councillor Professional Development workshops on topics including chairing and meeting procedures and media interview skills.
Item 18: Local Government NSW Personal and Executive Assistants’ Annual Conference
This year’s Annual Conference is themed, “Building your Confidence”.
Item 19: Staff Training Courses – To be held in July
LGNSW Learning Solutions is facilitating a number of workshops surrounding issues facing Local Government staff, including writing skills and handling difficult people.
Item 20: Workplace Behaviour – Managing Inappropriate Conduct and Performance workshop
This Learning Solutions workshop will assist leaders in dealing with inappropriate conduct in the workplace.
Legal
Item 21: NSW Councils Granted Exemption to use CCTV Cameras
The Privacy and Personal Information Protection Amendment (CCTV) Regulation 2013 has come into force, granting councils in NSW an exemption to use CCTV cameras in public places.
Planning
Item 22: Seminar on Plan Reading –To be Held in June
This one-day seminar is designed to provide participants with training in reading and interpreting the various types of plans used in planning departments in Local Government.
Tourism
Item 23: Inquiry into Impact of Tourism on Local Communities
The NSW Legislative Council’s General Purpose Standing Committee No. 3 is currently conducting an inquiry into tourism in local communities.
In the News
Item 24: Local Government NSW Media
View the latest media releases.
Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 4
Awards
Item 1: Award opportunities
View the latest Award opportunities for Local Government RH Dougherty Awards – Enter Online Now
Councils wishing to enter the 2013 RH Dougherty Awards need to prepare their submissions and enter online by Friday 14 June.
The A.R. Bluett Memorial Award
Entries for this year’s A.R. Bluett Memorial Award will open on Saturday 1 June.
Regional Achievement and Community Awards 2013
Entry for the Awards is now open. LGNSW encourages councils and communities to apply.
Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 5
Conferences and Events
Item 2: Upcoming conferences and events
View upcoming conference and events relevant to Local Government International Biodiversity Conference for Local Government
The City of Joondalup in Western Australia will host an international environment conference to showcase some of the world’s leading experts in climate change and environmental sustainability.
Waste Less, Recycle More Consultation Workshops
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is developing the program areas under the new $465.7 million Waste Less, Recycle More initiative. Consultation Workshops will be held in June at several NSW locations.
Seminar on Plan Reading – To be Held in June
This one-day seminar is designed to provide participants with training in reading and interpreting the various types of plans used in planning departments in Local Government.
Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 6
Grants and Funding
Item 3: Grant and funding opportunities for Local Government
View the latest grant and funding opportunities for Local Government War Memorial Fund – Apply for Grants Now
The NSW Government has established a fund to help protect and restore war memorials across NSW. Grant applications for restoration projects close on Friday 7 June 2013.
Local Government Energy Efficiency Program Closing
The Australian Government will cease funding for the Local Government Energy Efficiency Program (LGEEP) under the Low Carbon Communities initiative. Applications close next Friday 31 May.
Review into Funding Framework for Local Land Services
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal of NSW (IPART) is calling for public submissions on how the new Local Land Services NSW (LLS) boards should fund their services and functions.
Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 7
Survey Dates Opens - Monday 27 May Closes - Tuesday 11 June
Contact Megan Graham Director – Communications 02 9242 4015 [email protected]
Ref: R13 / 0020 MG
General Interest
Item 4: Independent LGNSW Member Survey – Opens on Monday
LGNSW has commissioned an independent market research organisation to undertake a member research project to be completed by NSW mayors, general managers and councillors.
The aim of the research project is for Local Government NSW (LGNSW) to better understand the expectations of its member councils.
The questions will focus on topics such as the perception of the role of LGNSW, the value of LGNSW to your council, new opportunities, suggestions for improvement and the communication between LGNSW and its member councils. All answers and information provided to the independent market research organisation will be kept entirely confidential, and no feedback attributed to any one person.
LGNSW encourages all members to participate and is grateful for your honesty and time taken to complete the survey.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 8
Entries Close Friday 14 June Entry Submissions lgnsw.org.au/events-training/rh-dougherty-awards LG Week Awards Evening 1 August 2013 Doltone House Jones Bay Wharf, Pyrmont Sydney Contact Karen Rolls LGNSW Events Coordinator [email protected] 02 9242 4050 Ref: R12/ 0063 KR
General Interest
Item 5: RH Dougherty Awards – Enter Online Now
Councils wishing to enter the 2013 RH Dougherty Awards need to prepare their submissions and enter online by Friday 14 June.
The RH Dougherty Awards are a great way for councils to recognise and encourage greater communication with their local communities. The Awards are judged in three categories: Reporting to your Community, Excellence in Communication and the Outstanding Individual Contribution Award. The divisions for the Awards are:
Division A – population less than 30,000.
Division B – population 30,000 – 100,000.
Division C – population more than 100,000.
Division D – ROCs and County Councils.
Further information on award categories, judging criteria and tips on preparing your submission, as well as the entry form, can be found on the Local Government NSW (LGNSW) website (see fact box). This year, LGNSW has implemented a new online system for submitting your entries; this system should make the process easier for all users. The Awards will be presented at our annual Local Government Week Awards Dinner, a celebration of the entries from councils across NSW. This year the dinner will be held in the Doltone House heritage building on Jones Bay Wharf, Pyrmont. This event is supported by our sponsors and stakeholders including Local Government Super, Fairfax Media, Cancer Council NSW, Heart Foundation, the Office of Communities and Department of Education and Communities.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 9
Dates Entries close Wednesday 31 July
Online information lgnsw.org.au/events-training/ar-bluett-memorial-award
Contact Graeme Fleming PSM A.R. Bluett Trust Chairman 0427 291 664 [email protected]
Ref: R90/0266 LP
General Interest
Item 6: The A.R. Bluett Memorial Award
Entries for this year’s A.R. Bluett Memorial Award will open on Saturday 1 June.
The Award, which is the “greatest accolade a council can achieve”, recognise the relative progress by member councils of Local Government NSW (LGNSW). It is judged on relative progress and each council, irrespective of size or resources, receives due consideration for their achievements.
Trust Chairman, Graeme Fleming PSM said, “Too often the overall achievements of Local Government go unrecognised by the community, other levels of government and even some councillors and staff. The A.R. Bluett Award provides an ideal opportunity to help rectify this situation.”
The award process has been streamlined in previous years and now incorporates information from councils Integrated Planning and Reporting documents. Entries will be able to be submitted online and through hard copy. For more information see fact box.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 10
Nominations close Friday 2 August 2013 Gala Awards Presentation Saturday 26 October 2013 Online information www.awardsaustralia.com/regional-achievement-community-awards/nsw Contact Awards Australia 1300 735 445 [email protected]
Ref: R90/1160 LG
General Interest
Item 7: Regional Achievement and Community Awards 2013
Entry for the Awards is now open. LGNSW encourages councils and communities to apply.
The Regional Achievement and Community Awards (RACA) encourage, acknowledge and reward valuable and outstanding achievements of individuals, community organisations, businesses and councils that contribute to the social, economic or environmental prosperity in regional and rural NSW and the ACT.
The 2013 Award categories include:
Crown Reserve Trust Award, Corporate Manager’s Award – $5,000 prize.
Crown Reserve Trust Award, Community Manager’s Award – $5,000 prize.
Community of the Year Award, Population under 15,000 – $5,000 prize.
Community of the Year Award, Population over 15,000 – $5,000 prize.
Events and Tourism Award – Television advertising prize.
Regional Service Awards – $5,000 prize.
Youth Leadership Award – $5,000 prize.
The Indigenous Achievement Awards – $5,000 prize.
Environment and Landcare Award – $5,000 prize.
Business Achievement Award – Television advertising prize.
LGNSW has supported the Awards since their 2002 inception and encourages councils and communities to apply in order to promote their beneficial work.
The 2012 winners were:
Crown Reserve Trust Award, Corporate Manager’s Award – Narrandera Shire Council.
Crown Reserve Trust Award, Community Manager’s Award – Gresford Showground Trust.
Community of the Year Award, Population under 15,000 – Tottenham Welfare Council.
Community of the Year Award, Population over 15,000 – Towns with Heart, Kurri Kurri.
Events and Tourism Award – Illawarra Folk Festival.
Regional Service Awards – Barbara O’Brien, Gulargambone.
Environment and Landcare Award – Little River Landcare, Yeoval.
Business and Employment Award – Chill @ Evens Café, Evens Head.
Business Development Organisation Award – Deniliquin Business Chamber.
Rural and Regional Development Award – Clover Hill Dairies, Jamberoo.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 11
Applications for funding close Friday 7 June 2013 Funding announcements Prior to 30 June 2013 Application criteria www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/heritage/memorialsfund.html Enquiries Ms Maret Hegh Office for Veterans' Affairs State War Memorials Committee 02 8762 9888 [email protected] Ref: R11/0027 CB
Community
Item 8: War Memorial Fund – Apply for Grants Now
The NSW Government has established a fund to help protect and restore war memorials across NSW. Grant applications for restoration projects close on Friday 7 June 2013.
Councils and community organisations are encouraged to apply for funding for local war memorials which require repair and/or conservation. Grant applications are assessed by a State War Memorials Committee who will announce grant recipients twice a year. The maximum amount of funding provided is $10,000 unless the memorial is at risk, or of state or national significance. Participation in this restoration program will ensure war memorials appropriately commemorate the service history within NSW. Many war memorials are now rundown, while all survivors of the First World War have now passed away. With proper restoration and maintenance, war memorials will continue to tell the story of the fallen, ensuring that the sacrifices of all NSW veterans can be honoured by current and future generations. Previous funding round On Tuesday 7 May 2013, the Minister for Citizenship and Communities, the Hon. Victor Dominello MP, announced funding of more than $107,000 to restore and maintain the following 12 community war memorials across NSW.
Recipient Project Funding
Blue Mountains City Council
Restoration of Blackheath War Memorial $10,000
Blue Mountains City Council
Restoration of Harold Campbell Monument at Blaxland Memorial Park, Blaxland
$9,984
Port Stephens Council Relocation of two war memorials within Apex Park, Nelson Bay
$10,000
Penrith City Council Restoration of St Marys War Memorial $10,000
The Rock RSL Sub Branch
Restoration of The Rock World War One Memorial $4,780
Austinmer RSL Sub Branch
Restoration of Austinmer War Memorial $10,000
Cardiff RSL Sub Branch Restoration of Cardiff District War Memorial $10,000
Fairfield RSL Sub Branch Etched paver for every local resident who served in armed forces from WWI to date and has since died
$10,000
NSW Lancers Memorial Museum, Parramatta
Maintenance work on Linden House Lancer Barracks $3,300
NSW Lancers Memorial Museum, Parramatta
Conservation of the Boer War King’s Banner $6,656
Lithgow RSL Sub Branch Restoration of Lithgow War Memorial $8,336
Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 12
Dates Applications close Friday 7 June Online information www.dbcde.gov.au/digital_economy/programs_and_initiatives/digital_enterprise_program Contact [email protected] Ref: RR90/0954-14 LG
Economic Development
Item 9: Digital Enterprise Program – Open for Applications
The Digital Enterprise Program provides free training and support for small to medium enterprises and not-for-profit organisations to help improve the way they do business and deliver services online.
Grants of up to $285,000 will be provided to 23 local communities. Grant funding is available to establish digital enterprise services in the following NSW locations:
Inner South West/Sutherland
Bankstown, Canterbury, Hurstville, Kogarah, Rockdale, Cronulla, Miranda, Caringbah, Sutherland, Menai, Heathcote and surrounding suburbs.
South West/Outer South West
Bringelly, Green Valley, Fairfield, Liverpool, Camden, Campbelltown, Wollondilly, and surrounding suburbs.
North Sydney / Hornsby / Ryde
Chatswood, Lane Cove, Hornsby, Ku-ring-gai, North Sydney, Mosman, Pennant Hills, Epping, Ryde, Hunters Hill, and surrounding suburbs.
City/Inner South / Eastern Suburbs
Botany, Marrickville, Sydenham, Petersham, Eastern Suburbs, Sydney Inner City, and surrounding suburbs.
Albury-Wodonga* (also under VIC)
Newcastle
Maitland
Queanbeyan
Wagga Wagga
Digital Enterprise – Virtual Advisor Program Further funding up to $400,000 is also available for a Digital Enterprise - Virtual Advisor Program. This program provides online training to individuals and organisations that are considering establishing an online business or improving their online business presence in order to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the National Broadband Network and the digital economy. The Virtual Advisor Program is to provide participants with access to group and one-on-one video conferencing based training.
The program is to primarily assist Indigenous Australians, small to medium Indigenous owned and operated enterprises, and not-for-profit organisations located in regional, rural and remote areas of Australia. Other individuals and organisations are also eligible to participate in the Virtual Advisor Program.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 13
Online information www.dbcde.gov.au/digital_economy/programs_and_initiatives/digital_local_government_program Draft application guidelines www.dbcde.gov.au/digital_economy/programs_and_initiatives/digital_local_government_program Contact Digital Local Government Program [email protected] Ref: R90/0954-14 LG
Economic Development
Item 10: Digital Local Government Program – Round Four
The Program provides funding to encourage Local Government to develop online services that make use of the capabilities of the National Broadband Network (NBN).
The Digital Local Government Program will assist councils in delivering innovative online services, for both homes and businesses, that are replicable and scalable, and that other councils across Australia can adapt and use.
On Tuesday 14 May 2013, the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator the Hon. Stephen Conroy, announced funding of five million dollars (excluding GST) for an additional round (round four) of the Digital Local Government Program.
Under round four of the program, around 15 of the 44 eligible councils across Australia are to receive funding of up to $412,500 (including GST). Funding is made available to councils whose applications best demonstrate an ability to deliver an NBN-enabled online service to homes and businesses in accordance with the guidelines for round four. The application guidelines are currently being finalised.
NSW councils eligible for funding are Gosford City Council, Greater Taree City Council, Maitland City Council, Mid-Western Regional Council, Queanbeyan City Council, Strathfield Municipal Council, Tamworth Regional Council, Wollongong City Council and Wyong Shire Council.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 14
Dates and location Joondalup Resort WA Monday 9 September - Wednesday 11 September Online Information http://www.joondalup.wa.gov.au/Live/Environment/BiodiversityConference2013.aspx
Ref: R90/1211 GH
Environment
Item 11: International Biodiversity Conference for Local Government
The City of Joondalup in Western Australia will host an international environment conference to showcase some of the world’s leading experts in climate change and environmental sustainability.
The City of Joondalup, in collaboration with ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability and the Western Australian Local Government Association, will host delegates from around the world for the 2013 ‘International BiodiverCities Conference’ in September.
The conference will be opened by scientist, explorer and conservationist, Professor Tim Flannery. It aims to attract environmental policy and decision makers from governments, environmental groups, businesses and delegations from both Australia and abroad.
Key topics include:
Managing impacts of climate change on local biodiversity.
Assessing and managing coastal vulnerability.
Partnerships to enhance biodiversity.
Community education and public participation.
Biodiversity for carbon sequestration.
Integration of biodiversity into the urban landscape.
The extensive conference program is complemented by the areas spring and wildflower season, a perfect time to be in Western Australia, one of 34 International Biodiversity Hotspots.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 15
Applications close 5pm Friday 31 May 2013 Online information www.climatechange.gov.au/en/government/initiatives/lgeep.aspx Contact [email protected] 1800 463 008 Ref: R06/0041 DA
Environment
Item 12: Local Government Energy Efficiency Program Closing
The Australian Government will cease funding for the Local Government Energy Efficiency Program (LGEEP) under the Low Carbon Communities initiative. Applications close next Friday 31 May.
The LGEEP provides assistance to Local Government Areas (LGAs) to install solar and heat pump hot water systems to motivate smarter energy use in buildings and community facilities, particularly where LGAs are located in low socio-economic or otherwise disadvantaged areas.
The LGEEP provides one-off, non-competitive grants with all Australian LGAs being eligible to apply for a maximum grant amount according to their size. LGAs that are considered to be located in low socio-economic areas are eligible to apply for additional funding and lower co-funding amounts. Small regional and rural LGAs are eligible to apply for up to $1,000 to meet project management costs. All LGAs are required to commit co-funding to LGEEP projects.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 16
Next census collection date Thursday 15 August – Saturday 17 August Online Information http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/species/flying-foxes-monitoring-program.html Contact Rhana Fleming Office of Environment and Heritage 02 9585 6591 [email protected] Ref: R93/0024 KM
Environment
Item 13: National Flying Fox Monitoring Program
The Program is managed by the Commonwealth Government and CSIRO to coordinate a collaborative effort across government, councils and the community to monitor flying fox numbers.
In 2012, the NSW Government agreed to join the program and has committed to undertake quarterly counts of flying foxes until November 2017, to support CSIRO’s National Flying Fox Monitoring Program and scientific research project.
The focus of the study is on:
Identifying flying fox camps across their jurisdiction.
Counting the number of flying foxes in the camp (generally during the day) on one occasion over the census period.
The first census count was undertaken in February 2013, and the latest census was undertaken from Thursday 16 to Saturday 18 May 2013.
The figures from NSW will be added to the numbers recorded in South Australia, Victoria, ACT and Queensland over the same timeframe. Over the course of the National Flying Fox Monitoring Program it is anticipated that a much clearer picture of flying fox numbers, migratory patterns and distribution across Australia will be attained.
Updated information and indicative results from the first full national census conducted in February 2013 will soon be available at http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/species/flying-foxes-monitoring-program.html
For more information, or to become actively involved in the program, please contact Rhana Fleming at the Office of Environment and Heritage (see fact box).
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 17
Dates Submissions to the issues paper close on Tuesday 2 July 2013. Online informationhttp://www.ipart.nsw.gov.au/Home/Industries/Other/Reviews/Land_Services/Review_of_a_rating_framework_for_Local_Land_Services_NSW IPART workshops Wagga Wagga – Friday 14 June, Tamworth – Tuesday 18 June Sydney – Monday 8 July.
Ref: R13/0002 GH
Environment
Item 14: Review into Funding Framework for Local Land Services
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal of NSW (IPART) is calling for public submissions on how the new Local Land Services NSW (LLS) boards should fund their services and functions.
IPART has released an Issues Paper on its review into the development of a funding framework for LLS and asks stakeholders for their views in response to IPART’s Terms of Reference and Issues Paper.
The Terms of Reference call for IPART to develop a rating framework and complementary service pricing system for LLS. In developing an efficient and transparent cost recovery framework, (funding framework) and an efficient ratings base and collection mechanism, IPART is to look at:
The strengths and weaknesses of cost recovery frameworks used by other similar service providers.
The ratings base, including such options as rateable land above a certain area or value, stock carrying capacity and the unimproved land value, depending on how well these options align with risk creators or service beneficiaries.
The appropriateness of special purpose levies and how they are determined.
IPART is not to set prices. It is to recommend the framework to be applied to this task by LLS boards and recommend an audit methodology to assess the extent of compliance with efficient cost recovery pricing.
Some services, as now, are likely to continue being funded by government. Other services could be funded by way of service fees or rates to recover part or all of their costs from landholders. IPART has recognised the importance of separating the costs of LLS that should be recovered from individual landholders from the costs that should be borne by the government on behalf of the broader community. IPART is seeking feedback from stakeholders on what costs should be paid for by individual landholders and what mechanisms should be adopted to recover those costs.
The Issues Paper also seeks comment on potential rate collection mechanisms. This is of specific interest to councils as their rating system could be considered as an option.
Background From January 2014, the new LLS organisations will deliver functions currently provided by the 11 Catchment Management Authorities and 14 Livestock Health and Pest Authorities and agriculture advisory services of Agriculture NSW (under the Department of Primary Industries).
The full range of services to be provided by LLS includes:
Advice on production for primary industries and farm businesses.
Biosecurity including plant and animal health.
Plant and animal pest control.
Natural resource management.
Emergency response.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 18
Online information http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/waste/Wasteforums.htm
RSVP Contact 9995 6241 [email protected]
Ref: R90/0561-13 DA
Environment
Item 15: Waste Less, Recycle More Consultation Workshops
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is developing the program areas under the new $465.7 million Waste Less, Recycle More initiative. Consultation Workshops will be held in June at several NSW locations.
The comprehensive reform will help achieve the State’s recycling targets, stimulate investment in infrastructure and combat illegal dumping and littering.
The EPA seeks your views to help design some of the key program areas. The workshops will also provide an opportunity to voice what you think the funding priority areas should be and to provide feedback in the design of some of the programs. Each workshop will discuss the following program areas:
• Organics Infrastructure Fund and Program.
• Improved Systems for Household Problem wastes.
• Business Recycling Fund.
• Waste & Recycling Infrastructure Fund.
An information pack containing brief information about each program area and questions to consider will be sent out to you prior to the workshop. This information will provide the content for discussion and the focus areas where we will ask for your input.
Numbers will be limited to no more than 50 per session, so RSVP early (see fact box).
Date Time Location
Monday 3 June 10:00-3:00pm Dubbo
Monday 3 June 10:00-3:00pm Sydney
Monday 3 June 10:00-3:00pm Queanbeyan
Monday 3 June 10:00-3:00pm Lismore
Tuesday 4 June 10:00-3:00pm Parramatta
Tuesday 4 June 12:00-5:00pm Wagga Wagga
Tuesday 4 June 10:00-3:00pm Kiama
Tuesday 4 June 10:00-3:00pm Newcastle
Thursday 6 June 10:00-3:00pm Coffs Harbour
Thursday 6 June 10:00-3:00pm Sydney
Tuesday 11 June 10:00-3:00pm Tamworth
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 19
Closing date 12 July 2013 Online information lgnsw.org.au/policy/finance/cost-shifting-survey. Further Information Sascha Moege Senior Policy Officer [email protected] Ref: R06/0023 SM
Finance
Item 16: LGNSW Cost Shifting Survey for 2011/12 Financial Year
LGNSW is now undertaking its cost shifting survey. NSW councils are invited to complete the survey on the LGNSW website.
As recommended by the Independent Inquiry into the Financial Sustainability of NSW Local Government, Local Government NSW (LGNSW) is undertaking an annual cost shifting survey of NSW councils to help quantify the amount of cost shifting in NSW.
This year’s survey covering the financial year 2011/12 is now available on the LGNSW website and LGNSW strongly encourages all councils participate.
The results of the survey will form the basis for a research report and will be publicly released. The results will help quantify the extent of cost shifting onto NSW Local Government and support Local Government’s argument for any adverse practice to end. They will also assist in monitoring compliance with the national Intergovernmental Agreement Establishing Principles Guiding Intergovernmental Relations on Local Government Matters (2006).
In 2006, the Independent Inquiry into the Financial Sustainability of NSW Local Government confirmed that both the NSW and Australian Government often transfer responsibilities onto Local Government without arranging for adequate funding to fulfil these responsibilities (cost shifting). The inquiry recognised that more "hard data" about cost shifting was needed to support any argument for that practice to end and commissioned a cost shifting survey with a representative sample of 19 NSW councils. The survey indicated that the total burden of cost shifting may amount to approximately $430 million per annum (financial year 2004/05).
Results from subsequent surveys undertaken by LGNSW confirm that cost shifting continues to place a significant burden on councils' financial situation and, despite the recognition of cost shifting and its adverse impacts on Local Government, remains at a high level. Indicative figures show that cost shifting onto NSW Local Government amounts to around six percent of councils' total income before capital amounts and increased significantly from $380 million in 2005/06 to $499 million on 2010/11.
The current survey for the financial year 2011/12 is available online. The survey asks councils to estimate the cost associated with more than 20 identified cost shifting examples and provides the option to add further examples. Completion of the survey is due by Friday 12 July 2013. This should provide sufficient time for the collation of the complex data required to complete the survey.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 20
Registration lgnsw.org.au/events-training/course-councillors Contact LGNSW Learning Solutions 02 9242 4181 [email protected] Ref: I98/0012 DR
Learning
Item 17: Councillor Professional Development Workshops in June and July
LGNSW Learning Solutions is presenting a suite of Councillor Professional Development workshops on topics including chairing and meeting procedures and media interview skills.
These workshops include case studies, examples and discussions pertinent to your work as an elected member, senior officer or community member.
Effective and Fair Meeting Procedures Friday 14 June – Sydney Wednesday 3 July – Wagga Wagga Saturday 6 July – Sydney
Effective Chair in Local Government (half day) Saturday 15 June (9am – 12.30pm) – Sydney Thursday 18 July (9am – 12.30pm) – Dubbo Tuesday 23 July (9am – 12.30pm) – Lismore
Community Leadership Friday 7 June – Lismore
Conflict of Interest/Model Code of Conduct Thursday 6 June – Taree Tuesday 18 June – Griffith Friday 26 July - Mudgee
Managing Time and Stress Monday 17 June – Griffith Wednesday 10 July - Sydney
Good Governance Monday 22 July – Lismore
If your council is in need of these programs but the dates or locations don’t suit, please advise Local Government NSW (LGNSW) Learning Solutions so they can schedule workshops locally or provide you with an in-house quote.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 21
Date and location Friday 21 June Amora Hotel Jamison 11 Jamison St Sydney Online information and registration lgnsw.org.au/events-training/lgnsw-personal-and-executive-assistants-conference Cost $660 inc. GST for Conference and Pre-Conference Dinner Contact LGNSW Learning Solutions 02 9242 4181 [email protected] Ref: I98/0012 DR
Learning
Item 18: Local Government NSW Personal and Executive Assistants’ Annual Conference
This year’s Annual Conference is themed, “Building your Confidence”.
Having confidence in yourself and your abilities can make a big difference to your life, both personally and professionally. Our 2013 conference features a number of topics designed to help you build your confidence in specific areas. The latest information relating to barriers faced by councillors entering Local Government and the roles and relationships between mayors and general managers will be focus areas. Participants will be able to share experiences with others in a stimulating environment, where networking with counterparts from other NSW councils is encouraged. Key topics include:
Building Confidence in Difficult Circumstances.
Barriers and Incentives for Women (and men) Entering and Remaining in Local Government as Councillors in NSW.
Assertiveness Skills.
Pitching with Confidence.
A Healthier More Confident You.
Exploring the Roles and Relationships between Mayors and General Managers.
The Confidence Workout.
Keynote speakers include:
Dinner Guest Speaker – Shivani Gupta, Chief Passion Officer, Passionate People.
Peter Hobbs, OAM. Founder of StreetWorks.
Ruth Paillas, Senior Policy Officer, Local Government NSW.
Michelle Landy, Empowerment Expert.
A choice of two interactive workshops will also be a feature of the program. We encourage senior staff to support their EA/PAs and other interested administrative staff to attend this important professional development activity. Please visit the LGNSW website for further information including the full conference program.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 22
Dates and locations July 2013 in various locations Registrations and cost lgnsw.org.au/events-training/courses-staff Contact LGNSW Learning Solutions 02 9242 4181 [email protected]
Ref: I98/0012 DR
Learning
Item 19: Staff Training Courses –To be held in July
LGNSW Learning Solutions is facilitating a number of workshops surrounding issues facing Local Government staff, including writing skills and handling difficult people.
The Role of Code of Conduct Coordinators (half day) Wednesday 17 July – Dubbo Monday 29 July – Lismore Senior staff and those appointed code of conduct coordinators will benefit from the process, information and discussions in this workshop. Handling Difficult People Tuesday 23 July – Ballina Learn how to get difficult people to work efficiently with this highly practical workshop. Improve Your Business Writing (two days) Thursday 25 July and Friday 26 July – Sydney This workshop will benefit you if you struggle with structuring and writing emails, reports and other correspondence. English Grammar and Punctuation Wednesday 31 July – Sydney This workshop will help resolve grammar and punctuation issues, as managers often complain they have to amend documents presented to them. Writing Winning Grant Funding Applications Tuesday 30 July – Sydney Writing successful funding applications is an important skill that councils need to have. Attend this workshop to learn how to develop an effective submission.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 23
Online information lgnsw.org.au/events-training/house-training-service Contact Judy Archer LGNSW Learning Solutions 02 9242 4180 [email protected]
Ref: I98/0012 DR
Learning
Item 20: Workplace Behaviour – Managing Inappropriate Conduct and Performance workshop
This Learning Solutions workshop will assist leaders in dealing with inappropriate conduct in the workplace.
Inappropriate workplace behaviour and performance is a growing issue in terms of time, money and effect on council staff. Many workplace issues intensify as a result of inaction or ineffective management at all levels. This workshop aims to assist leaders to resolve issues quickly in their initial stages. What you will learn?
Leaders will learn and understand:
The key skills of effective managers.
The four main behavioural styles at work.
How to offer constructive feedback.
How to set measurable performance standards.
Complete the Gap Analysis of Performance and/or Behaviour.
Holding the difficult conversation.
Prepare for the performance improvement meeting.
The program will be customised to your needs and uses real examples to assist you to apply this understanding.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 24
Policy Statement and Guidelines http://www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/lawlink/cpd/ll_cpd.nsf/vwFiles/cctv.pdf/$file/cctv.pdf Legislation http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/sessionalview/sessional/sr/2013-208.pdf Contact Frank Loveridge LGNSW Legal Officer 02 9242 4125 [email protected]
Ref: R96/0106-02
Legal
Item 21: NSW Councils Granted Exemption to use CCTV Cameras
The Privacy and Personal Information Protection Amendment (CCTV) Regulation 2013 has come into force, granting councils in NSW an exemption to use CCTV cameras in public places.
Councils in NSW are now exempt from some obligations under the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 relating to the collection of personal information by using a CCTV camera installed for the purpose of filming in a public place, and the disclosure to the NSW Police Force of that information by way of live transmission.
The Information and Privacy Commission have produced a fact sheet to help councils understand the changes to the laws regarding CCTV programs.
Councils are encouraged to refer to the NSW Government Policy Statement and Guidelines on the use of CCTV in public places which is available online (see fact box).
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 25
Dates and location Friday 28 June 2013
Registration http://www.clg.uts.edu.au/shortcourses/onlinereg.html
Cost $420 (GST Free)
Further information www.clg.uts.edu.au
Contact Ann O’Loughlin Courses Coordinator 02 9514 7884 [email protected]
Ref: R96/0078 LT
Planning
Item 22: Seminar on Plan Reading –To be Held in June
This one-day seminar is designed to provide participants with training in reading and interpreting the various types of plans used in planning departments in Local Government.
The course will consist of a variety of teaching methods and many practical workshops to provide hands-on experience in reading, measuring and drawing plans. At the end of the session, attendees should become capable and confident in reading and interpreting a variety of plans relevant to Local Government.
Topics covered in the seminar include:
Introducing the importance of plan reading and correct terminology.
Using/interpreting plan scales.
Understanding contours.
Interpreting site plans, floor plans, elevations plans, section plans.
Subdivision plans and 88B instruments.
Interpreting overshadowing diagrams.
Reading specialised plans including engineering details and bushfire plans.
Various workshops to allow students to develop skills through practical examples.
The program is designed for council counter staff, trainee and graduate planners and building surveyors, environmental health officers and any Local Government employee who would benefit from refining their plan reading skills.
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 26
Submissions close Friday 28 June 2013 Online Information www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/gpsc3 Submission entry [email protected] Or The Director General Purpose Standing Committee No. 3, Legislative Council Parliament House, Macquarie Street Sydney NSW 2000 Or faxed to 02 9230 2981 Contact Emma Rogerson Assistant Council Officer 02 9230 2898
Ref: R91/0109
Tourism
Item 23: Inquiry into Impact of Tourism on Local Communities
The NSW Legislative Council’s General Purpose Standing Committee No. 3 is currently conducting an inquiry into tourism in local communities.
Find The Terms of Reference below. The inquiry will look at:
The value of tourism to New South Wales communities and the return on investment of government grants and funds.
The value of tourism to regional, rural and coastal communities.
The impacts of tourism on Local Government Areas, including:
Infrastructure services provision and asset management.
Social impacts.
Unregulated tourism.
Employment opportunities.
The marketing and regulation of tourism.
The utilisation of special rate variations to support local tourism initiatives.
Any other related matter.
Local Government NSW (LGNSW) encourages councils to make a submission to the inquiry.
The Committee intends to hold public hearings following the closing date for submissions. Hearing details will be published on the NSW Legislative Council’s General Purpose Standing Committee’s website once they become available.
Submissions can be lodged via the Committee’s website and through email, post and fax (see fact box). Please note that no one, including the author, may distribute the submission unless authorised by the Committee. Anyone who republishes a Committee document apart from the Parliament or its Committees is subject to the laws of defamation.
Submissions are confidential until the Committee makes them public. Submissions are usually published by the Committee and placed on the Committees website. If your submission contains information you do not wish to be made public, please mark it confidential. The Committee will consider all requests for confidentiality, but is not obliged to keep a submission confidential if it determines that it is not in the public interest to do so.
For further information about the inquiry or making a submission, please contact Emma Rogerson (see fact box).
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Local Government NSW Weekly 21/13 24 May 2013 Page 27
In the News
Item 24: Local Government NSW Media
View the latest media releases
ALGA’s Media Release: Poll Reinforces Local Government’s Case for Financial Recognition Referendum
Monday 20 May
http://alga.asn.au/?ID=9289
The Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) says the latest results of a Nielsen poll showing the majority of Australian voters would support a referendum to include local government in the Constitution reinforce the sector's commitment to securing federal funding for vital local services and infrastructure.