NW Australian oil spills horrify traditional land owners -ABC News Article link.

Traditional owners horrified by oil, gas leaks

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Northern Territory traditional owners say they are horrified by oil and gas spills off the north-west Australian coastline.

This week it was made public that gas has been leaking from the East Puffin Field, off the north-west Australian coast, for more than seven weeks.To view on a PC/Mac please use this link

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/10/31/2729464.htm

To view on a mobile please use this link

http://m.abc.net.au/browse?page=11144&articleid=2729464&cat=Justin

MEDIA ALERTon NW Austraian Oil Spill – Govt report reveals hundreds of dolphins, seabirds affected by oil

Govt report reveals hundreds of dolphins, birds affected by oil

MEDIA ALERT – Saturday 31 October 2009

WHEN: 11am, TODAY Saturday 31 October, 2009

WHERE: Fern Garden, Western Australian Parliament, Perth

A Federal Government report has revealed that hundreds of dolphins and killer whales and more than 2000 birds, along with turtles and sea snakes, have been seen near the leaking Montara wellhead, many of them adversely affected by oil.

The report, containing many photos, was based on five days of scientific monitoring during late September and early October and was made available on a Federal Government website yesterday (Friday 30/10/09).

Australian Greens Spokesperson on Marine Issues, Senator Rachel Siewert has read the report in detail and is available to comment on it today (Sat 31/10/09).

The report may be viewed here:
http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/publications/pubs/montara-rapid-survey.pdf

“The report reveals a high level of diversity and abundance of species and warns that many of these were observed feeding and moving in the oil – activities that it says are likely to put them at ‘immediate risk’,” Greens Spokesperson on Marine Issues, Senator Rachel Siewert said.

“It also notes that animals that are dead or dying may not stay afloat for long periods of time, meaning it is unlikely that observers would find large numbers of dead animals – so the number of casualties may be far higher than reported.

“It also states that many animals were attracted to the oil or were seen feeding in it, which is likely to affect their health.

“This report was commissioned by Peter Garrett on 24 September, five weeks after the spill began and the same day that non-government organisation, WWF, set off from Darwin to report on the extent of the oil and the wildlife at stake.

“That timing is significant; I doubt that we would even have gained this information if looming publicity about WWF’s trip had not forced the Government’s hand.

“If you look carefully at where the scientists who produced this report conducted their five days of monitoring, and the limited time of their survey – the full extent of the oil impacts have obviously not been revealed,” Senator Siewert said.

“Given the short-term nature of the survey it is very difficult to get a true picture of what is happening. But it is obvious that there is a lot of marine life up there, much of it is interacting with the oil and it is highly likely that much of it has been affected.

“The report also states that:

· Over five days, the scientists counted 462 cetaceans (including false killer whales and three species of dolphin), 2801 birds (of 23 different species), 62 sea snakes and 25 turtles;

· Many of these species, including birds, cetaceans, sea snakes and turtles, were seen feeding, often in large numbers, in oil-affected water.

· The presence of dying birds and dead sea snakes suggested that there was an ‘immediate risk’ to species entering oil-affected area.

· Some animals appeared to be attracted to the oil because of the presence of bait fish in it; and

· The oil spill was likely to affect food supply to young birds over a long time period.”

For more information or media enquiries please call Eloise Dortch on 0415 507 763

Eloise Dortch

Media Advisor to Senators Rachel Siewert and Scott Ludlam for the Australian Greens

0415 507 763

Senator Siewert’s electorate office: 08 9228 3277

Senator Ludlam’s electorate office: 08 9335 7477

Cool IT: New “who’s who of green IT”

Dear fellow green-minded bloggers, We’ve just launched a new assessment round of the Cool IT Challenge

Concern mounts over the impact of oil in Indonesia and lack of information about 2 oil spills off the coast of western australia

Concern over impact of oil in Indonesia and lack of information

MEDIA RELEASE – Friday 30 October 2009

As new information comes to light about a second leak in the Timor Sea, reports from Indonesia seem to indicate that that the Federal Government’s responses in the questions in the Senate do not outline the full extent of the impact of the Montara oil spill on Indonesia, say the Australian Greens.

“We are just beginning to hear details about the second leak from the Chinese-owned Sinopec operation, about 50 kilometres north-west of Montara, now – although apparently this second leak started many weeks ago and the National Offshore Petroleum Safety Authority has known about it for weeks,” Greens Spokesperson on Marine Issues, Senator Rachel Siewert said.

“This second leak may be more ‘minor’ in nature, but in the context of the massive Montara spill, it is of great public interest.

“Meanwhile, we have also learnt that the oil is now reported to be lot closer to Indonesia than was suggested by the Government when I asked in the Senate on Tuesday (27/10/09) about reports in the Indonesian media of oil impacts,” Senator Siewert continued.

"Like everything else about this spill, the information provided by the Government is anything but clear. How much do they know about the spread of the oil into Indonesian waters, the reported fish deaths, and the impact on fishers and seaweed farmers of Rote?"

“A trawl operator based in Kupang says that in the past fortnight, crew on his boat operating in Indonesian waters have seen vast amounts of oil, with their vessel on some days surrounded by oil for the whole day.

“He has also confirmed that the official shipping warning given by the Kupang Harbour Master last week was that the spill was well within Indonesian waters, at 51 nautical miles (80 kilometres), south of Rote.

“Many of the villages on the south-facing coasts of Timor and Rote are extremely poor and remote, with few or no paved roads and a poor communications – making it hard to confirm Indonesian media reports,” Senator Siewert said.

“However, we have been in touch with a Bali-based Indonesian NGO that is travelling to these areas out of concern from eye witness accounts about oil damage to seaweed farms and fish deaths. The area is remote and information has been patchy, but certainly there is enough to go on now to say there is a real concern.

"It is unclear what obligations PTTEP have for the impacts of the oil in Indonesian waters and we urge the Federal Government to follow this up with the company.”

Editors: a transcript of Senator Siewert’s question, and the Senator’s answer, can be viewed at:
http://greensmps.org.au/content/question/wa-oil-spill-impact-indonesian-fishing
.

For more information or media enquiries, call Eloise Dortch on 0415 507 763

Eloise Dortch

Media Officer to Senators Rachel Siewert and Scott Ludlam

Australian Greens

Mobile: 0415 507 763

Email: eloise.dortch

Sen. Siewert’s electorate office ph: (08) 9228 3277

Sen. Ludlam’s electorate office ph: (08) 9335 7477

Web: www.greensmps.org.au

SENATOR RACHEL SIEWERT TO ADDRESS PERTH OIL SPILL PROTEST -11am today

MEDIA ALERT -Senator Rachel Siewert to address oil spill protest in Perth today

call Talkback radio to make a difference.

720 6WF (ABC) talkback 1300 222 720 sms 199 22 720 abc.net.au
882 6PR talkback 922 11 882 sms 199 99 677 6pr.com.au

TODAY, Friday 30 October 2009

Greens Senator for Western Australia Rachel Siewert will join The Wilderness Society’s Dr Jill St John, and oil-covered protestors, today outside the Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association offices in Perth to highlight rising public concern over pollution in the Timor Sea caused by oil and gas operations.

WHEN: 11am TODAY, Friday 30 October 2009

WHERE: Outside the Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association (APPEA) office,

190 St George’s Terrace, Perth.

After a short action, Dr St John and Senator Siewert will address the protest. Senator Siewert will then be available for interview.

Background:

It is now 10 weeks since oil began pouring from the Montara wellhead in the Timor Sea owned by Thai company, PTTEP Australasia. Attempts to plug the leaking wellhead have failed.

Last night, the news broke that for the past several weeks, another leak has been occurring in the Timor Sea, this time 45km to the north-west of Montara, from an operation run by Chinese company Sinopec.

It is understood that the second leak was reported some time ago to Federal authorities but it has only become public knowledge now.

For more information or media enquiries please call Eloise Dortch on 0415 507 763

Eloise Dortch

Media Officer to Senators Rachel Siewert and Scott Ludlam for the Australian Greens
Mobile: 0415 507 763

Sen. Siewert’s office: 08 9228 3277

Sen. Ludlam’s office: 08 9335 7477

Web: www.greensmps.org.au

Email: eloise.dortch

Really useful info & resources for west australians – WACOSS Update – 29th October

social policy | organisation development | membership | training

Please distribute through your networks WACOSS Update Thurday 29th October 2009 News items listed in this bulletin include… WACOSS 2010-2011 Pre-Budget Submission Released Today WACOSS Consumer Utilities Project Comes to an End Media Release: New WACOSS Board Appointed Submission in response to exposure draft of Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010 Emergency Relief Conference Fully Booked Working with Clients needing Financial Literacy? WA Not for Profit Day – Providing Tools and Skills for a Resource Challenged and Competitive Sector, Thursday 10th December NFPN Events: Unfair Dismissal Information Seminar, Tuesday 24th November Effective Leadership for Community Organisations, Wednesday 11th November Communicating and Connecting with Aboriginal People in the Community and the Workplace, Thursday 12th November How to be a ‘SUPER’ Supervisor, Wednesday 18th November The Tender Process – From Start to Finish, Wednesday 25th November The Project Manager’s Toolbox, Tuesday 1st December Business Planning for a Viable Future, Wednesday 9th December WACOSS Putting People First in 2010-2011 Pre-Budget Submission Planning for social advantage, enhanced community sector capacity, and a greater investment in vital community services are priority recommendations made in WACOSS’ 2010-2011 prebudget submission, released today. “Investing in the long term advantage of West Australians through prevention and early intervention measures will alleviate cost pressures in years to come, especially as we prepare for the next economic boom,” said Ms Sue Ash, CEO of the WA Council of Social Service. “These longer term strategies, together with investment in services that have an immediate focus, will ensure State Government resources deliver the best benefit for the people of WA, in the most cost efficient manner.”… Click here to read Putting People First: WACOSS Pre-Budget Submission 2010-11 Click here to read the WACOSS Pre-Budget Submission 2010-11 Consultation Report Click here to read the WACOSS Media Release announcing the release of the 2010-2011 Pre-Budget Submission. top WACOSS Consumer Utilities Project Comes to an End WACOSS regrets to advise that as of tomorrow, 30th October 2009, the Consumer Utilities Project (CUP) will no longer be operational. The Consumer Utilities Project did not receive funding in the 2009/10 budget and as such can not continue in its current capacity. We would like to sincerely thank the sector for its ongoing support over the life of the project. WACOSS is committed to continuing work in the area of essential services and will provide an update to the sector in the New Year following a review of resource capacity. It will also be Linda Goncalves’ last day tomorrow in her role as Senior Policy Officer. We would like to thank her for her hard work over the last 9 months and wish her well in her future endeavours. If you would like any further information regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact Irina Cattalini, Director of Social Policy, on 08 9420 7222. top Media Release: New WACOSS Board Appointed The WACOSS Annual General Meeting was held on Thursday 22nd of October. The meeting was an unqualified success and included an address by The Hon Robyn McSweeney, Minister for Child Protection; Community Services; Seniors and Volunteering; and Women’s Interests. Ron Edwards, member of the National Social Inclusion Board, provided a keynote presentation, setting the scene for the challenges ahead for WACOSS and the community services sector. Finally, attendees were addressed by Gwen Mcllroy from EmployerAssist regarding the new Industrial Relations Support service for WACOSS members. Click here to view the WACOSS Media Release (including an explanation of the new Board) If you have any queries regarding the new Industrial Relations Support service available to WACOSS members please contact Louise on 9420 7222 or louise@wacoss.org.au top Submission in response to exposure draft of Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010 WACOSS has provided a submission to the Australian Industrial Relations Commission (AIRC) in response to the Commission’s draft modern award for the sector. The modern award will take effect from 1 January 2010 and will replace existing federal awards (such as the SACS and CASH awards) for many not-for-profit community service organisations. WACOSS’ submission reiterates the key principles that the State and Territory Councils of Social Service have advocated for in the award modernisation process, and also draws the AIRC’s attention to a number of technical issues with the exposure draft. Click here to view WACOSS’ submission top Emergency Relief Conference Fully Booked The Emergency Relief Conference being held on 25th & 26th November is fully booked and no further registrations can be accepted. top Working with Clients needing Financial Literacy? New training opportunity for Emergency Relief Volunteers and Staff Expressions of Interest are now being taken for people interested in registering for training in Basic Financial Literacy Skills for Clients. The course will cover topics such as: * Assisting clients to develop a personal budget, * Identifying roles and boundaries relevant to the role of financial literacy education, * Making referrals to a financial counsellor * Recognising values and attitudes of diverse client groups in relation to money management * and much more…. Only 50 places will be made available for this free training to be delivered in Perth. To register your interest please contact Gosia on 9420 7222 or ssso@wacoss.org.au top WA Not for Profit Day – Providing Tools and Skills for a Resource Challenged and Competitive Sector, Thursday 10th December This annual conference has become a significant industry event that addresses the unique SPAissues faced by not-for-profit (NFP) organisations. Gain invaluable insights to ensure you are keeping up in this competitive and often restrictive environment. This one-day conference will provide you with the tools to address the latest issues and trends facing NFP organisations while exploring the latest technical, governance and sustainability challenges facing the sector. Key benefits of attending: Receive a comprehensive update on the ever-evolving topics of Western Australian Workplace Law, Superannuation, Accounting Standards and OHS; Discover the impact and future of mergers and acquisitions in the NFP sector Hear from experts on how key industry issues will affect you To claim the member rate, WACOSS members will need to ensure they register using the registration form rather than online registration, as we need to put that special rate through manually. Click here for the event brochure and registration form top NFPN Events: Unfair Dismissal Information Seminar, Tuesday 24th November As all employers should now be aware a new unfair dismissal jurisdiction is now in operation. This session will be informational and highly interactive – bring YOUR QUESTIONS about this issue and our experienced presenter will address them for you. There are substantial changes to the previous Unfair Dismissal regime brought about by the removal of the 100 employee exemption (where employees working for an employer of less than 100 employees could not take a claim). Prior to the introduction of the 100 employee exemption unfair dismissal claims were the most frequent and costly claims for employers across Australia – the result of its removal means the likelihood of employers experiencing a claim and its associated costs has increased dramatically. This is information all employers must know. Our seminar will be tailored to providing the information you really need to know, and it will be provided in a simple, easy to understand manner. Issues covered will include: Which employers are covered by the unfair dismissal regime Which employees are covered by the unfair dismissal regime The difference between the ‘large’ and ‘small’ employer unfair dismissal regimes The threshold matters an employee must satisfy to get access to the unfair dismissal regime What Fair Work Australia considers an unfair dismissal to be The Small Business Fair Dismissal Code – how to apply and things to keep in mind What is ‘harsh, unjust or unreasonable’ and how is it considered What amounts to a ‘genuine’ redundancy What remedies can be ordered should an unfair dismissal claim be found to exist What organisations can do now to protect their liability and avoid claims Click here to learn more about presenter Andrew Jones Duration: 3hrs – including time especially for your questions The Perth seminar will be held in a CBD location on November 24 (numbers permitting) REGISTER NOW And take advantage of the special rates: - $140 for NFPN Members (WACOSS members, email info@wacoss.org.au to receive member discount rate) - $170 for Non Members Click here to register top Effective Leadership for Community Organisations, Wednesday 11th November Learn how to increase the confidence and competence of your staff to help them reach their maximum potential Good leadership skills are essential for all staff working at all levels of an organisation. This practical workshop will provide attendees with a set of practical skills to develop their leadership skills. Leading from Within is a WACOSS workshop informed by key principles of Leadership Best Practice. WHAT DOES IT COVER? Defining the difference between directing, coaching, supporting and delegating Management and Leadership Styles Identifying and Developing your own Leadership Style Diagnosing confidence versus competence How to usefully and respectfully apply this diagnosis in a collaborative framework How to lead towards a shared understanding of direction and goals Leading effective teams Creating a Motivating environment through Effective Leadership WACOSS Contact: Gosia Czarnomska – ssso@wacoss.org.au Further Information For the full details and to register CLICK HERE or visit the new WACOSS Organisation Development Services website at www.wacosstraining.org.au. top Communicating and Connecting with Aboriginal People in the Community and the Workplace, Thursday 12th November Learn to improve the way services work with Aboriginal people in the Community This training introduces you to cultural knowledge and practical ways of working with Aboriginal people, families and organisations. You will develop skills relevant to working with Aboriginal people in various locations and environments. The workshop is Aboriginal developed and delivered in its entirety. WHAT DOES IT COVER? Planning and Delivery of Services to Aboriginal People Practical strategies for working with Aboriginal people in the community Tools for consulting, building trust and communicating with Aboriginal people and communities Effective ways to initiate contacts with individuals, communities and organisations Broad information on Indigenous cultures in Australia in the past and today Practical supportive guidance to assist workers when engaging with Aboriginal People WACOSS Contact: Gosia Czarnomska – ssso@wacoss.org.au Further Information For the full details and to register CLICK HERE or visit the new WACOSS Organisation Development Services website at www.wacosstraining.org.au. top How to be a ‘SUPER’ Supervisor, Wednesday 18th November Identify and explore the skills and knowledge needed to become an effective supervisor Do you want to know how you can get the best out of staff, volunteers or contractors you supervise? Want to understand the differences involved in managing, supervising and coaching others? Supervising staff involves more than just signing the time sheets and checking that the job is done and deadlines are meet. A truly effective supervisor knows how to develop the full potential of others whilst ensuring their duties are met. This workshop will cover these topics and more. WHAT DOES IT COVER? Differences between managing, mentoring, coaching and counselling Roles and responsibilities of supervising others Identifying staff development needs Effective approaches for dealing with staff performance issues How to enhance performance Key areas involved in delegation WACOSS Contact: Gosia Czarnomska – ssso@wacoss.org.au Further Information For the full details and to register CLICK HERE or visit the new WACOSS Organisation Development Services website at www.wacosstraining.org.au. top The Tender Process – From Start to Finish, Wednesday 25th November Learn how to increase your success rate and demystify the entire process A MUST DO for anyone involved in or considering a Tender submission. Learn key tools for effective tendering that will increase your success. This is a practical and intensive course where the process and strategies are clearly outlined and the systematic steps to complete the task explained. WHAT DOES IT COVER? Tender basics Cold proposals Preparing different types of bids Lodgment and follow up WACOSS Contact: Gosia Czarnomska – ssso@wacoss.org.au Further Information For the full details and to register CLICK HERE or visit the new WACOSS Organisation Development Services website at www.wacosstraining.org.au. top The Project Manager’s Toolbox, Tuesday 1st December Identify and explore the practical tools and methods for ensuring your projects achieve the desired outcome, with minimal stress along the way If you are involved in managing a grant program, or your organisation’s regular and special projects, this workshop will give you a working knowledge and the practical tools and methods for ensuring your projects achieve the desired outcome, with minimum stress along the way. WHAT DOES IT COVER? Understanding the terminology, tools and resources used in Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBoK) Developing project ideas and writing workable project plans The different phases of a project and methods for managing each stage Problem solving tools, techniques and templates Managing and assessing risk Developing and tracking a project budget Overview of common software to assist in the tracking and progress of projects and their advantages and disadvantages WACOSS Contact: Gosia Czarnomska – ssso@wacoss.org.au Further Information For the full details and to register CLICK HERE or visit the new WACOSS Organisation Development Services website at www.wacosstraining.org.au. top Business Planning for a Viable Future, Wednesday 9th December Discover the impact a good business plan can make to your organisations success This workshop will cover the key Business Planning questions and explain the planning process and the planning cycle. WHAT DOES IT COVER? * Who needs a business plan? * Business planning versus Strategic planning * The planning process * understanding planning cycles * resources to use. WACOSS Contact: Gosia Czarnomska – ssso@wacoss.org.au Further Information For the full details and to register CLICK HERE or visit the new WACOSS Organisation Development Services website at www.wacosstraining.org.au. top

Australian Senate calls for release of oil spill environmental report

Senate calls for release of oil spill environmental report

MEDIA RELEASE – Thursday 29 October, 2009

The Australian Senate today (29/10/09) called on the Federal Environment Minister to table a marine survey on the environmental impacts of the Montara wellhead spill by Monday, 16 November.

The survey of environmental impacts was announced by the Rudd Government on 15 October, eight weeks after the spill first began, and following widespread calls for the Government to take greater action.

“The Senate supported the Greens’ motion, which also asks for all documents used in the preparation of the report, including drafts, to be tabled,” the Greens Spokesperson on Marine Issues, Senator Rachel Siewert said.

“The public has a right to know as much information as possible about this spill, but to date both the Rudd Government and PTTEP have been far from forthcoming.

“The Environment Minister now has until Monday 16 November to provide these documents to the Senate. This is more than sufficient time to report back.”

For more information or media enquiries please call Eloise Dortch on 0415 507 763

Premier’s shame over West Australians abused in care as children – Colin Barnett needs a heart implant!

WA should be doubly sorry for Forgotten Australians: Xamon

Greens (WA) Upper House MP Alison Xamon has welcomed today’s announcement of the Federal Government’s formal apology to the Forgotten Australians and former child migrants, but said that it highlighted the heartlessness of the Barnett Government’s recent cuts to the Redress WA scheme.

“The Federal Government should be congratulated for playing this symbolic role in the healing processes of the tens of thousands of West Australians who were in out-of-home care last century,” said Ms Xamon.

“Tragically, too many of these children, who were already so vulnerable, were subject to abuse and neglect at the hands of those who had been charged with the responsibility of protecting them.”

Ms Xamon said that the timing of this Federal move was particularly painful for WA residents still reeling from the prospect of greatly decreased ex gratia payments under what she described as a “Reduced Redress” scheme.

“State Premiers and Territory Chief Ministers should ideally be offering parallel apologies in their respective jurisdictions on the day the Federal apology is delivered,” said Ms Xamon.

“But Premier Barnett should be doubly sorry that day, having re-opened old wounds by virtue of hard-hearted cuts to the maximum Redress payments.”

“It is to WA’s great shame that the Federal apology won’t be greeted as warmly in Western Australia because of our Premier’s disappointing about-face,” Ms Xamon concluded.

2009-10-27 – Barnett should be doubly sorry for Forgotten Australians.docx

Greens welcome apology to Forgotten Australians and former child migrants

Australian Greens welcome formal apology to Forgotten Australians and former child migrants

Tuesday, 27 October 2009

The Australian Greens welcome the announcement of a formal apology by the Australian Government to the Forgotten Australians and former child migrants.

The federal government today announced the apology will take place at a special remembrance event in Parliament House in Canberra on 16 November 2009.

“I welcome the news of an official apology to more than 500,000 Australians – many of whom suffered abuse and neglect while in out-of-home care last century,” Greens Community Services Spokesperson, Rachel Siewert said.

“As the Chair of the third and most recent Inquiry (Lost Innocents and Forgotten Australians Revisited 2009) I congratulate the government for its timely action following the release of the report and the inclusive approach it has taken on such an important unresolved issue,” Senator Siewert said.

“It’s enabled us to work directly with both Forgotten Australians and former child migrants, and across parties, where there was overwhelming bipartisan support to deal with this unfinished chapter of our nation’s history.

“I believe this is a significant step forward in the healing process, as it will acknowledge for the first time that what happened in the past was both real and wrong.

“The apology follows unanimous calls to start this healing process heard during this most recent Inquiry in June, and I comment the government’s prompt response to its findings.”

West Australia gets ready to DUCK & COVER to dance away the Uranium blues – Special Events Notice – You Don’t Want to Miss the Event of the Year!!!

*Please share this

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY AT THE DUCK & COVER HOP
A fancy dress fundraiser for the campaign to stop uranium mining in WA

http://duckcoverhop.wordpress.com

WHEN: Friday 6 November 2009
WHERE: Fremantle Town Hall
TIME: 7.30pm-midnight
Fully licenced bar & supper available

Travel back in time, dust off your cool threads and get crazy for a cause at the Duck and Cover Hop – Fremantle’s first and finest retro radioactive ball.

Dance the night away to Harry Deluxe and DJ Atomic ‘Burn’, with special appearances by the radioactive ladies of Sugar Blue Burlesque and the Swing Academy.

TIckets: $30 unwaged / $40 waged / $60 solidarity *all tickets include supper
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL! Book here

For more information:
Email: duckcoverhop
Web:
http://duckcoverhop.wordpress.com

All money raised goes to the Anti-NuclearAlliance of Western Australia, Conservation Council of Western Australia & Fremantle Anti-Nuclear Group

Sponsors: Fremantle City Council, Fremantle Festival & Little Creatures

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Kate Vallentine

ANAWA Campaigner

5 King William Street, Bayswater WA 6053

Ph/Fax: (08) 9271 8786

Email: kate

Website: www.anawa.org.au

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/ANAWA

Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/ANAWA/147771085564

Myspace: www.myspace.com/473370523

Youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/user/AntiNuclearWA

HELP AUSTRALIAN ADULT SURVIVORS TO UNTANGLE THE KNOT OF CHILD ABUSE & Win tickets to the Big Apple by supporting ‘FORGET ME KNOT DAY’- Friday 13th November

HELP AUSTRALIAN ADULT SURVIVORS TO UNTANGLE THE KNOT OF CHILD ABUSE & Win tickets to the Big Apple by supporting ‘FORGET ME KNOT DAY’- Friday 13th November

ASCA Knot Day Pin

MEDIA RELEASE

Win tickets to the Big Apple by supporting

‘FORGET ME KNOT DAY’- Friday 13th November

HELP AUSTRALIAN ADULT SURVIVORS

TO UNTANGLE THE KNOT OF CHILD ABUSE

26th October 2009: Participants in the inaugural Forget-me-knot Day celebrations, on Friday 13th November, could win two tickets to fly to New York to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art.

Part of an International Week For Prevention of Child Abuse, Forget-me-knot Dayhas been established by Adults Surviving Child Abuse (ASCA) to encourage Australians to show their support for the two million+ adult Australians[i] personally affected by childhood abuse, as.

The Symbol:

The knot in ‘Forget me knot’ Day symbolises the ‘tangle’ of childhood abuse, which in most cases is a lifelong challenge for the survivor to unravel. As a society, we forget that abused children grow up – and for many adulthood is when they are first able to confront the issue of abuse and begin to heal the emotional scars. Unfortunately, the shame around abuse can prevent adult survivors disclosing and others from reaching out to them.

The impact of child abuse is not just felt by the children. The adults they become, their families, their partners and their community are all impacted by this tragedy. More than eight million Australian community members are directly affected by child abuse. In a population of 22 million, this is a staggering figure.

The Competition:

As part of the ‘Forget me knot’ Day campaign,ASCA invites all Australians to submit photographs of any object tied in a blue tangled knot to go in the draw to win a trip for two to New York, including two economy airfares, two nights’ accommodation and free entry to the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art, New York. The competition is active now and entries close midnight on Friday 6th November. Submissions can be made online at www.asca.org.au/competition. The competition winner will be announced on Forget-me-knot Day, Friday 13th November.

ASCA Chair Dr Cathy Kezelman said “We chose the knot to help explain the struggle or ‘tangle’ survivors encounter as they live with and attempt to overcome the damage inflicted by childhood abuse. As a society we can find the trauma of childhood abuse difficult to comprehend; so it is often ignored, left unspoken and unaddressed. To help engage people in this very real issue, we chose a public art competition to encourage thinking, discussion and debate about a challenge faced by more than two million adult Australians. Artists, creative thinkers and even laypeople can often explore and connect with complex issues through art and a trip to New York is a wonderful incentive to encourage people to engage in this discussion. I look forward to seeing the results.”

Forget-Me-Knot Day Campaign Components:

Through a range of activities including a national petition, a photographic competition, a ceremony of connection which involves the unravelling of a mammoth knot on an iconic Sydney building, ASCA’s ‘Forget-me-knot Day’ raises awareness of this struggle, and gives all Australians an opportunity to donate, and help adult survivors to reconnect with their community. Details can be found here www.asca.org.au/forgetmeknot

People can also order the official blue tangled knots pins from the ASCA website www.asca.org.au/forgetmeknot and donate to help survivors overcome their trauma and reconnect with their community.

The Solution:

With the right help and support, survivors can find their way through the tangle of child abuse and find a sense of health and wellbeing and re-engage positively in their communities. Listening, understanding and supporting are critical to the healing process. ASCA is a core part of the solution, delivering evidence-based workshops to adult survivors of child abuse, and workshops for health practitioners to inform treatment of survivors of child abuse around Australia.

Media Contact: Amanda McGregor ph: (02) 9492 1004 mb: 0411 222 311

About ASCA: (www.asca.org.au) (www.asca.org.au/forgetmeknot)

ASCA is a charity which focuses exclusively on advancing the needs of the more than 2 million Australian adults surviving child abuse. ASCA was formed in 1995 and its current activities encompass: a 1300 information/support line – 1300 657 380, website, newsletters for survivors and health professionals, workshops for survivors and their supporters, education and training programs for health care professionals and frontline workers. ASCA is currently developing a national network of services and practitioners with the experience and expertise to specifically address survivors’ needs. ASCA is the key national Australian organization to support adults who have experienced all forms of child abuse and neglect, and receives no ongoing government funding.

(attached: Image of Forget Me Knot Day Pin)

Amanda McGregor

Suicide remains the biggest cause of death for West Australian youth – here is a course to learn mental health “first aid”

http://wacoss.org.au/images/assets/enews_221/greenapple.pdf

please click the link ( PR copy and paste to your browser ) for info on the course from the Australian National University

News, info, training, videos from West Australia’s peak Social Justice group – WACOSS – eNews edition 221

Click here to view WACOSS eNews edition 221 for Friday 23rd October

West Australian Oil spill likely to be much larger – GovtDept backs Greens’ claims

The latest news on the Oil Spill vindicates the Greens ongoing concerns. See below for the original interview with Sen. Rachel Siewert and also wonder why there’s such silence about the part ownership of the leaky rig by the brutal Generals of Burma.

(see following links for Burma ownership info)

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tony serve

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Oil spill likely to be much larger – Dept backs Greens’ claims

MEDIA RELEASE – Thursday 22 October 2009

Information revealed during questioning at a Senate Estimates hearing indicates that the amount of oil leaking from the Montara wellhead may be much higher than the company’s estimates.

Yesterday (Wed 21/10/09), under questioning by Greens’ Marine Issues Spokesperson Senator Rachel Siewert, Federal Department of Resources, Energy and Tourism officials said that PTTEP had given them no basis for their 400-barrels-day figure, and their own calculations based on Geoscience Australia data suggested a rate of around 2,000 barrels-a-day, plus condensate.

Using PTTEP’s own documents and data from similar wellheads nearby, independent analysis sourced by the Greens in the weeks following the spill calculated that the Montara wellhead may be leaking up to 3,000 barrels of oil-a-day into the Timor Sea off Australia’s north-west coast.

This calculation was disputed by the Rudd Government, with Federal Minister for the Environment Peter Garrett later saying the real figure was just 300 to 400 barrels-a-day (see
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/09/04/2677276.htm
).

Despite requests by the Greens, there has been no explanation of the basis of this figure.

“It is clear that we can have no confidence in the estimates by the company and I must ask why the Government chose to support the company’s estimates rather than the Department’s estimates,” Senator Rachel Siewert said.

“It is clear a thorough and comprehensive inquiry is needed into this spill.

“If the oil had continued to leak at this rate over the two months since the accident on 21 August, this would suggest that up to 20 million litres of oil could have leaked into the Timor Sea.

“However, given the drop-off in the observed rate of oil leakage in the first weeks of the spill reported by AMSA, we might expect that the total amount of oil spilled could be lower, perhaps around 10 million litres.

“This puts the Montara oil spill clearly up there in the top three worst oil spills in Australia’s history,” concluded Senator Siewert.

Sen. Siewert’s office: 08 9228 3277

Sen. Ludlam’s office: 08 9335 7477

Web: www.greensmps.org.au

Email: eloise.dortch

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West Australian Govt wastes money Royalties for Regions money spent on town sculpture

What a waste of money – Royalties for Regions money spent on town sculpture

The Greens have condemned the Government for spending Royalties for Regions money on a sculpture in Bunbury (as declared in a media statement by Minister Castrilli today
http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/Results.aspx?ItemID=132639
).

“What a total waste of money” said Mining and Pastoral MP Robin Chapple MLC.

“I simply cannot believe that with so many people in regional WA living in third world conditions, the Government thinks the best way to spend money earmarked for the regions is to restore a sculpture.”

“Western Australians rightly assume that Royalties for Regions money will be spent in a way that actually enhances living standards in the regions and delivers projects and infrastructure that the regions are crying out for.”

“People who voted for the Nationals must be extremely disappointed by this recent example of Royalties for Regions spending.”

“This clearly demonstrates the problems with the Government’s Royalties for Regions legislation. The legislation does not require Royalties for Regions money to be spent on projects or causes that enhance living conditions in regional WA in a meaningful way.”

“Instead, the legislation allows Royalties for Regions money to be spent on anything that tickles the Minister’s fancy, whether it addresses decreased living standards suffered by people living in the regions or not.”

“For this reason I have moved amendments to the Royalties for Regions Bill that will require the Minister to give preference when spending Royalties for Regions funds to those projects or causes that will ‘enhance basic living needs including health services, housing availability and education availability’.”

“I believe this is what voters thought they were getting when they voted for Royalties for Regions. I also believe that this is the way in which the people of metropolitan WA expect 25% of the State’s mining and petroleum royalties to be spent.”

“Without amendments to control the way in which the Minister can spend Royalties for Regions funds, we will continue to see money intended to enhance the regions, being spent on such ridiculous things as sculptures.”

Being tough on refugees is pretty weak – article from “the Age”

Being tough on refugees is pretty weak – from “the Age”

Image via Wikipedia

http://www.theage.com.au/opinion/politics/being-tough-on-refugees-is-pretty-weak-20091017-h22b.html

“According to some, there are 10,000 refugees massing on foreign shores, just waiting for the right moment to sneak across the ocean. Putting aside the dubious evidence for that figure, yes: 10,000 people would be a lot to squeeze into a living room. But the Australian continent is quite large. The settler arrival figures increased by nearly that amount just this year – from 149,000 in 2007-08 to 158,000 in 2008-09 – and we hardly heard a peep from anybody.”

Chris Berg is a research fellow with the Institute of Public Affairs and editor of the IPA Review. His column appears in The Sunday Age every fortnight.

West Australia news, info, social justice – WACOSS Update – 15th October

social policy | organisation development | membership | training

Please distribute through your networks WACOSS Update Thurday 15th October 2009 WACOSS AGM – Thursday October 22 The WACOSS AGM will be held on Thursday October 22 at 10am, in the “Golden Nugget Room” at Gloucester Park, 4 Nelson Crescent, East Perth. A keynote address will be presented by Dr Ron Edwards. The Hon. Robyn McSweeney MLC, Minister for Child Protection, Community Services, Seniors and Volunteering and Women’s Interests will also be speaking. All WACOSS members are encouraged to attend!!! Click Here to view the AGM Invitation Please RSVP your attendance to Louise Coomber: louise@wacoss.org.au or 9420 7222 News items listed in this bulletin include… Productivity Commission Recommends Major Reforms Affecting Not-For-Profit Sector Media Release: Anti-Poverty Week 2009 Media Release: Unemployment in WA Highest since 2003 Media Release: Rate Rise May Increase Mortgage Stress Media Release: Social Housing Taskforce Final Report Released ***WACOSS $500 Membership Survey Prize Winner Announced*** Working with Clients needing Financial Literacy? WA Not for Profit Day – Providing Tools and Skills for a Resource Challenged and Competitive Sector, Thursday 10th December Anti-Poverty Week, 11-17 October PM for a day? What Would You do to Tackle Poverty? NFPN Events: Unfair Dismissal Information Seminar, Tuesday 24th November HR Mangement Today : Legal Obligations when Employing Staff and Performance Management Systems, Thursday 22nd October Oh My Goodness, I’m on a Board!!, Wednesday 28th October Effective Leadership for Community Organisations, Wednesday 11th November ...More Upcoming WACOSS Training Opportunities… Productivity Commission Recommends Major Reforms Affecting Not-For-Profit Sector The Productivity Commission released a draft of its report into the contribution of the not-for-profit sector in Australia on Wednesday 14 October. The Commonwealth Government asked the Commission to conduct a study assessing the sector’s contribution to Australia’s economy and community, and to recommend ways to improve or expand the sector’s ability to contribute. The draft report contains a number of important recommendations, including: Expanding the application of charitable status to include the broad range of non profit organisations that work towards the goal of social inclusion Respecting the independence and autonomy of not-for-profit organisations while amending onerous reporting requirements associated with government funding Establishing a Registrar for Community and Charitable Purpose Organisations and providing a cohesive national regulatory framework Removing the inconsistencies in taxation and the legal treatment of non-profits Ensuring that agreements (like Compacts between government and the sector) are more than just words through the use of robust mechanisms for implementation, monitoring and evaluation Gathering better data on the non profit sector and making that available to the sector for its own development Actively developing the sector through easing access to capital for social enterprise programs; and increasing funding to cover wages at market rates and legitimate administrative and organisational costs. Funding the full the costs of services based on independent assessments of those costs, as well as the reporting and evaluative processes that funders require of the sector. Recognising the enhanced capacity and contribution of organisations that are well governed, by providing financial support for training boards and management in the non profit sector. WACOSS and ACOSS have publicly supported the Commission’s draft recommendations. The Productivity Commission is now conducting a final round of consultation based on the draft report. Not-for-profit organisations can respond to the draft report by 24 November. Click here to view WACOSS’ media release. top Media Release: Anti-Poverty Week 2009 “WACOSS is extremely pleased to see the enthusiasm that Anti Poverty Week 2009 has generated in Western Australia” said Ms Irina Cattalini, Acting CEO of the WA Council of Social Service. “Poverty and hardship are serious issues in our community. With unemployment rising and the cost of living increasing significantly, many West Australians are finding themselves facing extreme turmoil. Anti Poverty Week gives us a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to tackling these important issues.” Anti Poverty Week was established in Australia as an extension of the UN International Anti-Poverty Day and runs from Sunday 11 October to Saturday 17 October 2009. It aims to strengthen public understanding of the causes and consequences of poverty and encourage research, discussion and action to address these issues… Click here to read more top Media Release: Unemployment in WA Highest since 2003 "The number of people unemployed in WA has swelled by a staggering 42,600 people in less than 12 months,” said Ms Irina Cattalini, Acting CEO of the Western Australian Council of Social Service. “These figures show that West Australians continue to lose out in the current economic climate.” New figures released today show that the unemployment rate increased from 5.4% to 5.8% in one month, meaning that there were 4 000 additional unemployed people in WA in September compared to August. It’s the first time since January 2004 that WA’s unemployment rate has been higher than the national average… Click here to read more top Media Release: Rate Rise May Increase Mortgage Stress “WACOSS is worried that even the small increase in interest rates announced today by the Reserve Bank could tip more WA households over the edge into financial hardship”, said Irina Cattalini, Acting CEO of the Western Australian Council of Social Service. The Reserve Bank of Australia announced today that the overnight cash rate will increase by 0.25 percentage points, to 3.25%. It is expected that the increase will be passed on to borrowers. “The number of property repossessions arrears in WA has been worryingly high in WA over the last year. It’s clear that a significant number of West Australians are experiencing financial hardship and distress as a result of the economic downturn, despite extremely low interest rates”… Click here to read more top Media Release: Social Housing Taskforce Final Report Released “The findings of the Social Housing Taskforce report clearly demonstrate that the West Australian housing system is failing to cater for the housing needs of a sharply increasing number of people on low and fixed incomes”, WACOSS Acting CEO, Irina Cattalini, commented today. WACOSS congratulates Minister for Housing Troy Buswell on his initiative in establishing the Taskforce, and commends the recommendations contained in its report, released this morning. “The meteoric rise in house prices and rents over the last five years have left many low and fixed income households struggling to find and maintain accommodation. Over 21,000 households are on the waiting list, an increase of more than 22% in the past year. Public housing has declined to only 4% of the housing stock, compared to 6% in the 1990s. This is lower than the Australian average and significantly below social housing stocks in comparable jurisdictions abroad. The Department of Housing’s ability to help those frozen out of the private market has seriously diminished… Click here to read more top WACOSS $500 Membership Survey Prize Winner Announced! Congratulations Mid West Sports Federation! The Mid West Sports Federation, located in Geraldton, has won the WACOSS Membership Survey prize of $500 cash or $500 worth of WACOSS training. The prize was drawn from nearly two hundred survey responses using a random number generator. WACOSS would like to thank the Mid West Sports Federation, and all other members who completed the survey. Your feedback has allowed us to gain a far more accurate picture of our membership and their requirements. top Working with Clients needing Financial Literacy? New training opportunity for Emergency Relief Volunteers and Staff Expressions of Interest are now being taken for people interested in registering for training in Basic Financial Literacy Skills for Clients. The course will cover topics such as: * Assisting clients to develop a personal budget, * Identifying roles and boundaries relevant to the role of financial literacy education, * Making referrals to a financial counsellor * Recognising values and attitudes of diverse client groups in relation to money management * and much more…. Only 50 places will be made available for this free training to be delivered in Perth. To register your interest please contact Gosia on 9420 7222 or ssso@wacoss.org.au top WA Not for Profit Day – Providing Tools and Skills for a Resource Challenged and Competitive Sector, Thursday 10th December This annual conference has become a significant industry event that addresses the unique SPAissues faced by not-for-profit (NFP) organisations. Gain invaluable insights to ensure you are keeping up in this competitive and often restrictive environment. This one-day conference will provide you with the tools to address the latest issues and trends facing NFP organisations while exploring the latest technical, governance and sustainability challenges facing the sector. Key benefits of attending: Receive a comprehensive update on the ever-evolving topics of Western Australian Workplace Law, Superannuation,Accounting Standards and OHS; Discover the impact and future of mergers and acquisitions in the NFP sector Hear from experts on how key industry issues will affect you To claim the member rate, WACOSS members will need to ensure they register using the registration form rather than online registration, as we need to put that special rate through manually. Click here for the event brochure and registration form top Anti-Poverty Week, 11-17 October Across Australia in 2006 over 2.1 million people lived on less than $280 a week. Do you believe that no one should have to live in poverty? Are you passionate about equality? Do you just want to do something? THEN JOIN IN ANTI POVERTY WEEK! Anti Poverty Week 2009 runs from 11 – 17 October. It aims to strengthen public understanding around the causes and consequences of poverty in Australia and across the globe and encourage innovative action to address these problems. Anti Poverty Week is a grassroots initiative and as such can not succeed without your involvement! We are calling for all organisations, schools, agencies or individuals to organise an event during the week to raise awareness of poverty. Events can be as large or small, elaborate or simple as you like. For ideas please visit the website: www.antipovertyweek.org.au Or for more information contact Caroline: caroline@wacoss.org.au top PM for a day? What Would You do to Tackle Poverty? Mission Australia is encouraging Australians of all ages to say what they would do to alleviate poverty if they were Prime Minister for a day to help mark Anti-Poverty Week (11-17 October). The best response – delivered in the form of a short video no longer than 60 seconds – will be judged by Mission Australia’s CEO, Toby Hall, with the winner being flown to Canberra to meet the Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Social Inclusion, Senator Ursula Stephens, to discuss their idea. According to Toby Hall, the idea behind the competition was to organise a fun activity that also raised awareness around the issue of poverty and engaged people in what they could do to help. “Most Australians are pretty lucky but there is a significant minority who are stuck in poverty, cut off from life’s essentials, and who need our help,” said Mr Hall. “From our own research we know that around one in seven people who turn to welfare organisations lack a substantial meal at least once a day – that’s a shocking situation in modern Australia. “As well as the most basic need for food, 30 per cent of our clients lack a decent and secure home; 25 per cent are unable to buy prescribed medicines; 46 per cent don’t have access to dental services; and 11 per cent don’t have a separate bed for each of their kids. “People living in poverty are unable to participate in the activities that most of us take for granted. They are often faced with difficult choices – such as skipping a meal to pay for a child’s text book. “Getting involved in the ‘PM for a day’ competition is easy. All participants need to do is make a short video of themselves – no longer than 60 seconds – and tell us what they would do to address poverty if they were Prime Minister for 24 hours. “It doesn’t have to filmed on a video camera – you can use your mobile phone – just as long as it’s less than 60 seconds and sticks to the subject. “Simply visit www.missionaustralia.com.au/apw for entry details. To post your video participants will need to register with youtube.com. “There’s still two weeks left to get your entry in. We have to receive videos by midnight on Friday, 16 October with the winner being announced online on Friday, 30 October. “We’ll fly the winner to Canberra to meet the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Inclusion, Senator Ursula Stephens, to discuss their ideas and the issues surrounding poverty,” said Toby. top NFPN Events: Unfair Dismissal Information Seminar, Tuesday 24th November As all employers should now be aware a new unfair dismissal jurisdiction is now in operation. This session will be informational and highly interactive – bring YOUR QUESTIONS about this issue and our experienced presenter will address them for you. There are substantial changes to the previous Unfair Dismissal regime brought about by the removal of the 100 employee exemption (where employees working for an employer of less than 100 employees could not take a claim). Prior to the introduction of the 100 employee exemption unfair dismissal claims were the most frequent and costly claims for employers across Australia – the result of its removal means the likelihood of employers experiencing a claim and its associated costs has increased dramatically. This is information all employers must know. Our seminar will be tailored to providing the information you really need to know, and it will be provided in a simple, easy to understand manner. Issues covered will include: Which employers are covered by the unfair dismissal regime Which employees are covered by the unfair dismissal regime The difference between the ‘large’ and ‘small’ employer unfair dismissal regimes The threshold matters an employee must satisfy to get access to the unfair dismissal regime What Fair Work Australia considers an unfair dismissal to be The Small Business Fair Dismissal Code – how to apply and things to keep in mind What is ‘harsh, unjust or unreasonable’ and how is it considered What amounts to a ‘genuine’ redundancy What remedies can be ordered should an unfair dismissal claim be found to exist What organisations can do now to protect their liability and avoid claims Click here to learn more about presenter Andrew Jones Duration: 3hrs – including time especially for your questions The Perth seminar will be held in a CBD location on November 24 (numbers permitting) REGISTER NOW And take advantage of the special rates: - $140 for NFPN Members (WACOSS members, email info@wacoss.org.au to receive member discount rate) - $170 for Non Members Click here to register top HR Mangement Today : Legal Obligations when Employing Staff and Performance Management Systems, Thursday 22nd October This is a NEW Course created by popular demand to help you manage your most VALUABLE resource: PEOPLE. Learn how good human resource practice can SAVE your organisation time, money and staff! Learn how to keep up with changing legislation, different awards, employment conditions and contractual requirements. Understand your employment obligations and ensure your human resource management practices are in place. This workshop is new to the WACOSS list and has been developed because of the large number of calls we receive around employment contracts and legal obligations when things have gone wrong. Get it right from the start and avoid wasting costly time later. WHAT DOES IT COVER? Getting started – Job Descriptions, Duty Statements etc. Appointment processes Contracts and agreements – including express and implied terms Remuneration sources – awards and other methods of salary negotiation Minimum Conditions of employment in Western Australia Probationary periods – can these still be used? Discipline and dismissal Setting targets or KPIs – does this work in the community sector? Performance reviews – how to select and implement the right performance appraisal for your organization The thorny issue of bonuses in the community sector – do they have a place? WACOSS Contact: Gosia Czarnomska – ssso@wacoss.org.au Further Information For the full details and to register CLICK HERE or visit the new WACOSS Organisation Development Services website at www.wacosstraining.org.au. top Oh My Goodness, I’m on a Board!! Wednesday 28th October Explore the roles and responsibilities of being a member of a Board or Management Committee. If you have just been elected to a Board or Committee for the very first time, or have been on a Board for a short while and don’t feel you are contributing as much as you could or should be, then this is the workshop for you. Effective Board Members are people who understand the processes they are now part of – what you can and cannot do, what is correct, and what can be downright dangerous to the viability of the organisation. WHAT DOES IT COVER? Overview of the corporate governance framework Roles and responsibilities of a Board/Committee Members Legal requirements Board/Committee Members must comply with Organisation structure and frameworks for decision making Introduction to risk management and strategic planning WACOSS Contact: Gosia Czarnomska – ssso@wacoss.org.au Further Information For the full details and to register CLICK HERE or visit the new WACOSS Organisation Development Services website at www.wacosstraining.org.au. top Effective Leadership for Community Organisations, Wednesday 11th November Learn how to increase the confidence and competence of your staff to help them reach their maximum potential. Good leadership skills are essential for all staff working at all levels of an organisation. This practical workshop will provide attendees with a set of practical skills to develop their leadership skills. Leading from Within is a WACOSS workshop informed by key principles of Leadership Best Practice. WHAT DOES IT COVER? Defining the difference between directing, coaching, supporting and delegating Management and Leadership Styles Identifying and Developing your own Leadership Style Diagnosing confidence versus competence How to usefully and respectfully apply this diagnosis in a collaborative framework How to lead towards a shared understanding of direction and goals Leading effective teams Creating a Motivating environment through Effective Leadership WACOSS Contact: Gosia Czarnomska – ssso@wacoss.org.au top Further Information For the full details and to register CLICK HERE or visit the new WACOSS Organisation Development Services website at www.wacosstraining.org.au. Upcoming WACOSS Training Opportunities The WACOSS Training Calendar for Semester 2, 2009 still has several great training oppertunities available before the end of the year. Below is a list of remaining workshops, click on the workshop titles to find out more and book your place BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE! Communicating and Connecting with Aboriginal People in the Community and the Workplace, Thursday 12th November How to be a ‘SUPER’ Supervisor, Wednesday 18th November The Tender Process – From Start to Finish, Wednesday 25th November The Project Manager’s Toolbox, Tuesday 1st December Business Planning for a Viable Future, Wednesday 9th December top Further Information For the full details and to register CLICK HERE or visit the new WACOSS Organisation Development Services website at www.wacosstraining.org.au.

Mental Health Minister to address noon rally, can’t say what staff cuts have & will be made – Alison Xamon MLC Media Release

Alison Xamon MLC

MEMBER FOR THE EAST METROPOLITAN REGION

P.O. BOX 104, MAYLANDS, WESTERN AUSTRALIA 6931
PHONE (08) 9275 7474 – FAX (08) 9275 7574

The W.A. Mental Health Minister has told Parliament he doesn’t know what cuts to staff and services have been made in his portfolio as those behind the cuts of at last 13%,Troy Buswell and Colin Barnett, talk shopping hours.
mp3 audio cut 3 lays out the spin and distraction being put out by the Premier & Treasurer and runs 20 secs

Greens MLC Alison Xamon last night asked the Minister what cuts to staff and resources had been made and what cuts are coming. The reply was to the effect that it would take “some time” to provide answers.
mp3 audio Alison on his reaction and runs 25 secs

Ms Xamon also moved an Urgency Motion, supported by the Opposition, calling on the Government to spell out its plans for the sector.
mp3 Audio Ms Xamon explaining that the Mental Health Minister has little Idea what his Premier and Treasurer have done and have planned – runs 23 secs

Organisers of the midday rally to overturn the dedly cuts say they’ve been approached by the Minister, asking if he can speak to them as they deliver a petition to the Lower House.
mp3 Audio Alison on people in the public and private sector being fed up with spin and lack of answers to urgent questions – runs 22 secs

It will be worthwhile sending reporters and cameras to the midday rally to see what happens, and to interview the Auditor General who’s due to issue a report on the prformance of the Mental Health Sector around 1pm.

mp3 audio  Alison lashing the rush to make cuts before the AG’s report is handed down, and the lack of consultation with stakeholders, staff, service providers and those who use mental health services – runs 13 secs

There will be people from public and private groups like, the HSU, WAAMH, MHC, COMIC, RUAH etc, as well as the Minister, Shadow Minister, Alison Xamon, Many of my dear 6PR listeners and Twitter friends will be there too because this is life or death for many west australians and the damage will be almost impossible to undo.

IF YOU CAN’T MAKE THE NOON RALLY

please call talkback radio TODAY ( 6PR 922 11 882 )   You can also email Colin Barnett at wa-government@dpc.wa.gov.au or  Treasurer Troy Buswell at Minister.Buswell@dpc.wa.gov.au or call the Premier’s office today on 9222 9475, Troy Buswell’s office is 9222 9111  ( contact details are from the public WA Government website )

In W. Australia – Some die waiting for a meagre measure of justice after being abused in State Care – a small vigil at Parliament today- Media Alison Xamon

Alison Xamon –

MLC for East Metropolitan

News release  (Tuesday October 13 )

Alison Xamon MLC for East Metropolitan ( Greens )

Alison Xamon has been working closely with victims of state abuse for some time and laments the dwindling number of victims able to keep a monthly vigil at State Parliament.

The MLC for East Metropolitan says the halving of a meagre ex-gratia payment, and ongoing delays in paying even that have caused hardship and heartache that add more insult to awful injury.

“At midday today  a small group of our most vulnerable people will gather as they do each month to ask the Government for a small measure of justice that has been denied for decades and then cut in half.”

They are the last few members of the Redress activists keeping a monthly vigil, those West Australians who were officially acknowledged to have been abused while in State care, and many more who were removed from families her and abroad against their will or without consent of parents.

They will gather outside state Parliament at Midday in the faint hope that the Barnett Government will re-instate the full amount of compensation awarded to them, and ensure no more victims die waiting for the mostly inadequate funds

Only a few months ago a 50 year old woman eligible for Redress, but still waiting for its meagre justice, died ( click here for the ABC story of one victim who died just 2 months ago…still waiting )The money would have helped pay for her funeral, but even that late comfort was denied to her.

The Greens MLC asks “How many more people will die waiting – waiting for the full amount of Redress funds to be re-instated – waiting again once money’s been allocated for it to actually be paid.”

Alison is asking media to speak to the bravehearts at parliament today and hear how the Government’s funding cut and payment dlay are affecting people in our community.

Audio -

Cut 1   The Greens Alison Xamon says some of those waiting for payment were hoping to use it to travel to the family they were taken from al those years ago, and they are tiring of waiting for justice.      AlisonXamonRedress1-17secs-click blue link for short mp3 audio

Cut 2  Alison Xamon, who’s worked fro some tim with victims to get some measure of justic says those still waiting include a host of people originally from the UK as well as Indigenous Australians.    click this link for mp3 audio

Cut 3 The MLC for east metropolitan Alison Xamon says these people have been through enough, and the heartless State Government must overturn the funding cuts and remove ongoing delays to payments.    Click for mp3 audio AlisonXamonRedress3-17secs

Perth Mental Health Rally midday Wednesday 14th Oct at State Parliament, please copy and sign petition below – hear Greens MH spokesperson Alison Xamon on a tragic MH Week in WA

Email from Ingrid Bentsen Background to the issue

The State Government is proposing budget to Mental Health of between 10-15%

Where people can find a petition to sign

Copy of petition attached, When completed, they need to be returned to PO box  3167 Carlisle South WA 6101on or before 12th October OR BRING THEM TO THE RALLY

3. And about the Parliament house action

ALL interested parties Consumers carers providers encouraged to attend the official hand over of the petition at

Parliament house MIDDAY 14th October.

No permits for a march have been applied for however the gathering of a large number of people at Parliament house along with media coverage should send the message loud and clear.

The intention is to show the state government we are not invisible we will not be treated like the poor cousin regarding adequate funding and we will be a strong voice for those who have none!

The media will be there and some placards available hopefully making it easier to get our message out:

• INCREASE FUNDING TO MENTAL HEALTH.

• REJECT PROPOSED CUTS

Click blue link for mp3 audio of Greens MLC Alison Xamon on a tragic Mental Health week in Perth

PETITION OPPOSING THE PROPOSED FUNDING CUTS TO MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

TO THE HONOURABLE THE SPEAKER AND MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF THE PARLIAMENT OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED.

We, the undersigned, are concerned about the effect that any proposed funding cuts will have on consumers of the mental health services, their carers, families, members of the community, as well as the providers of mental health services in Western Australia

Of major concern are any cuts in relation to the much needed recovery programs, which are known to prevent re hospitalisation.

We are also concerned of the affect any proposed cuts would have on service providers, many of whom are already under funded and understaffed

We urge the State Government to oppose any such proposal and ensure that those involved in mental health will not have their health and lifestyles compromised

Secondly, we strongly urge the Legislative Assembly propose an increase in funding to raise staffing levels to a safe and effective standard

We now ask that the Legislative Assembly take every appropriate action to ensure the above.

NAME	ADDRESS	SIGNATURE

Please clearly mark envelope petition and return to Sound Psychiatric Information Network C/O

P/O Box 3167 Carlisle SOUTH WA 6101

West Australian key info on social justice from WACOSS eNews 220

Thursday 8th October 2009 – Edition 220
Welcome to WACOSS eNews Please feel free to circulate and distribute this newsletter to your networks. There is no cost for subscribing to this newsletter. CLICK HERE to subscribe online. WACOSS eNews is distributed to over 5,200 email addresses and then wider from these networks. The list continues to grow on a daily basis. Advertise your events, jobs, etc. through this newsletter. WACOSS eNews is published every second Thursday – email your items to WACOSS by 5pm on the Tuesday of that week. Next deadline for issue 221 of eNews is Tuesday 20th October, 5pm. Fees may apply for some advertisements. Please contact WACOSS on 08 9420 7222 for more details or email info@wacoss.org.au
Social Policy
	WACOSS Social Policy Seminar – Guest Speaker Peter Shergold: Consumer Directed Care: Implications and Outcomes for Service Users and Providers, 16th October
	WACOSS Media Release: Unemployment in WA Highest since 2003
	WACOSS Media Release: Rate Rise May Increase Mortgage Stress
	Social Housing Taskforce Final Report Released
	WACOSS Media Release: Fall in Repossessions Welcome, But Times are Still Tough
	WACOSS Media Release: Income Management Not a Solution
Sector Services and Development
	HR Management Today: Legal Obligations when Employing Staff and Performance Management Systems Workshop, 22nd October
	Celebrate Mental Health Week! Burst the Bubble… Reduce Your Workplace Stress, Friday 9th October
	Not-for-Profit Day, Thursday 10th December
	Emergency Relief Conference 2009: Subsidies for travel and registration available!
	Organisational Governance Workshop, 15th October (3 places left!)
	Just been elected to a Board or Committee? – Essential Workshop, Wednesday 28th October
	…For More Information about Workshops…
	NFPN Events: Unfair Dismissal Information Seminar, Tuesday 24th November
Corporate Services
	WACOSS AGM, Thursday 22nd October
	Make a difference and become a WACOSS Member now!
ANTI-POVERTY WEEK 11-17 OCTOBER 2009
	Join in Anti-Poverty Week! 11-17 October
	Anti-Poverty Week Breakfast, 15th October
	Big Issue Open Day, 14th October
	Mission Australia and Anti-Poverty Week: PM FOR A DAY? WHAT WOULD YOU DO TO TACKLE POVERTY?
News
	Count Us In Awards! Nominations Close 19th October
	Commissioner for Children and Young People: State’s youngest citizens to be given a voice on big issues
	YCulture Metro: young artists + idea = $3000
	Nominate now for Count Us In Awards
	Nominate for the Rural Remote and Regional (RRR) Women’s Network of Western Australia Reference Group
	Volunteer Grants 2009
Community Sector Positions Vacant
	Red Cross seeks save-a-mate-officer
	City of Bayswater seeks Senior Community Development Officer
	Uniting Care West and Sussex Street Community Law Service seek Full and Part Time Disability Advocates
	Ngala seeks Experienced Social Worker
Events
	Introductory Information Sessions: Enduring Powers of Guardianship and Advance Health Directives in WA
	Free Art Workshop Exhibition, Monday 19th October
	The Bluestocking Institute for Global Peace and Justice, The Politics of Food, 15th October
	Redress WA – New Protest Dates
	Edmund Rice Institute for Social Justice, Exemplary Social Justice Action: What Works and Why? – 3 Case Studies, 24th October
	Edmund Rice Institute for Social Justice, Utopia’s Shadow: Just Societies, New Possibilities, Old Pathologies, 31st October
	Anglicare Training: Working with Adolescents who Engage in Sexually Abusive Behaviours, 12th and 13th November
	Indigenous Mental Health Conference 2009: Our Mob, Our Minds, Our Spirit, 23rd – 25th November 2009
	Homeless Connect, Wednesday 25th November
	16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence, 25th November – 10th December
	Upcoming ASeTTS Training Dates and Information

West Australian Government “celebrates” Mental Health week with demands for spending cuts totalling 13%

Mental Health services told to cut budgets by a total of 13 %

Media Release Tuesday October 6th – Day 2 of Mental Health Week

The Barnett Government calls on Mental Health Services to cut spending by 13 per cent.

Mental Health Week

Greens Mental Health Spokesperson Alison Xamon ( MLC for East Metro
http://alisonxamon.org.au
) has exposed a tragic travesty on day two of “Mental Health Week” in W.A. where Treasurer Troy Buswell is not just applying the 3% spending cut imposed across all sectors, but cutting even more deeply into MH services.

Mental Health Week

Private and public service providers as well as NGOs and consumer groups say the extra 10 per cent is due to an overspend by the “General” Health Department.

Mental Health Week

They are reluctant to speak to the media because history shows time and again that Government employees who blow the whistle are punished ,while overstretched community groups stand to lose the meagre funding they receive while delivering life and death, front-line services.

Mental Health Week

It appears the Mental Health sector is being punished for the alleged “sins” of General Health, but so far there’s no word from Colin Barnett’s Government explaining why the demandss are being made and why it’s being done without the community being informed.

Mental Health Week WEAK

One of WA’s leading advocates, Margaret Cook had this to say about the shameful revelations;

” This is a travesty!!! We have for too long put up with this kind of cut backs and treatment of the mental health services while the community has no idea what is really happening.

Mental Health Week WEAK

Due to people with mental illness remaining the shameful silent voices. It is time we remain silent no more it is not only we who are experiencing these cutbacks but the whole community.

Mental Health Week WEAK

Staff also they have jobs and family to support also and love their jobs some whom have been in them many years and dedicated their lives to them.

There are many others our children services mental health services have had drastic cuts, and don’t believe that will not impact future generations it will.

Mental Health Week WEAK

We see this daily our children being exposed to troubled parents who are traumatised by serving overseas in wars created by Zealots who our governments think they can end  century old persuasion.

Mental Health Week WEAK

This is but just one example of a government policy that ends up as a useless costly long term problem that Governments on both sides of politics have created.

Cheers Margaret Margaret Cook Mental Health Consumer Advocate/Educator

To Know The Road Ahead Ask Those Coming Back

COMIC WA Convenor Children of Mentally Ill Consumers   “

Listen to some of the news grabs from Greens MLC Alison XAMON

Alison Xamon MH frontline services mp3

Alison Xamon MH reconsider mp3

Alison Xamon MH kicking the needymp3

Alison Xamon MH no fat to cutmp3

Alison Xamon MH critical servicemp3

Alison Xamon MH call to actionmp3