Links, info for Friday December 14 on #Assange #Psychiatry #BigPharma #Disability #NDIS #Australia #Auspol

Disclosure: I am a long time supporter of Wikileaks and the work of Julian Assange and all the others who risk everything to shed light on the ugly truth.

I was a mainstream journalist/radio host for 30 years, but no longer work in a newsroom ( apart from the odd fill-in to help out at 6PR & 96fm ) My work now is not objective, but I do strive for balance and welcome polite opposition.

Audio of Interview with Christine Assange as Mainstream Media focusses again on Julian Assange’s bid for the Senate.

 click here for audio of Christine Assange with Tony Serve Perth’s 6PR Dec. 14 2012 

***Edited audio segments here, grabs of 1-3 minutes on everything from Govt lies to Mainstream Media #FAIL – more to follow

CA on our tweets making us terrorists, and liable to arrest

CA ON Gillard Roxon lies over draconian new laws

CA on MSM not pursuing Govt lies

CA on MSM & citizen journalism

Wikileaks site is here http://wikileaks.org ( including the store  ) and needs/deserves your support , see also http://justice4assange.com

Follow @wikileaks for news, infoz from WL and occasional tweets from JA.

Follow & support Christine Assange on twitter @AssangeC  - cowards and trolls often hassle her so don’t be shy with support

(1) Legal brief to parl-#Assange Extradition by Jen Robinson: http://wlcentral.org/node/1418

Justice4Assange website: http://justice4assange.com

Campaign Site for #Wikileaks &#Assange supporters.. http://bit.ly/UroYTG

Poll suggesting at least 7 in 10 Aussies would vote for Julian. http://www.theage.com.au/polls/assange-for-senate-20121212-2b9rp.html

English: Demonstration in front of Sydney Town Hall in support of Julian Assange, 2010, December 10 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

What the Australian Govt can do to end the “Assange stalemate” by Professor Donald Rothwell ANU College Law  http://www.abc.net.au/unleashed/4408852.html#

Pollbludger’s William Bowe on Assange for the Senate http://www.crikey.com.au/2012/12/14/poll-bludger-win-or-lose-assanges-senate-tilt-will-cause-a-stir/

and his article from March 19 2012 http://www.crikey.com.au/2012/03/19/poll-bludger-assange-for-canberra-a-new-can-of-worms/?wpmp_tp=1

abc election maestro Antony Green doesn’t rate Julian a chance http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-12-13/green-what-chance-does-assange-have-for-senate-seat/4425990

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long standing Mental Health advocate & former MP Martin Whitely is running for Senate pre-selection in the Australian 2013 Federal Election. See more at MartinWhitely.com

Article on disastrous new diagnosis “guidelines” that will be gospel for Psychiatrists in most of the western world  http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/dsm5-in-distress/201212/dsm-5-is-guide-not-bible-ignore-its-ten-worst-changes

Article on Martin Whitely’s highly recommended site. http://speedupsitstill.com/american-psychiatric-association-approval-dsm-5-sad-day-psychiatry

Click here for audio of Martin Whitely A 2012-12-14 at 16.04

Dexamphetamine Sulphate 5 mg tablets (photograph) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Friend and colleague Zel Iscel from EDAC.org.au joined me to chat about the effect of the much vaunted NDIS plans for people with #Disability

click here to hear Zel on the actual impact of the NDIS 

Zel on the right on air for Ethnic Ability Mondays 7.30pm

link for Zel’s radio show -> http://www.mrtawa.org.au/1/ethnicability.php

click here for the Govt NDIS website 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I recommend you follow my colleague  Maath Musleh (MaathMusleh) on Twitter @MaathMusleh. Lecturer at Al-Quds-Bard College. Journalist. MA in Political Journalism from City University in London. Jerusalem, Palestine

English: Jerusalem, Mount of Olives, Gethsemane, Church of all nations Deutsch: Jerusalem, Ölberg, Kirche aller Nationen (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

#Australia #Indigenous Elder speaks of #Nyoongar #Whadjuk Dreaming & culture & his visit to US #Chumash people

Just home in Western Australia after a First People’s meeting in the US, Trevor Walley joined me on radio 6PR in Perth to talk about Nyoongar and Whadjuk culture and Dreaming – you’ll enjot his positivity and vivid description of times when people and place were one )

 

Click the pic to visit Trevor's Facebook page

Perth Skyline from Kings Park in February, 2011. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Interviews with some of the best online: @kgosztola @kennethlipp @juliacreinhart @lissnup

We had the privilege of hearing from some very cool activists in the US and UK over the weekend.

Perth activist Kate joined me live in the studio as we spoke to Kevin and Kenneth  and the second night featured Julia then Anita.

I love these people – hope you enjoy our chat – simply click the audio links below and listen while you compute )

Kevin Gosztola   @kgosztola 15 minutes

Kenneth Lipp     @kennethlipp 12 minutes

Julia Reinhart    @juliacreinhart 18 minutes

Anita Hunt         @lissnup  24 minutes

twitter home pages below….

Perth Saturday May 7 – Bringing Families and Professionals together – Mental Health, Drugs, Alcohol

A chance for family and health professionals to talk - click pic to visit Palmerston.org

Click the pic to visit Palmerston Association

Research facing huge cuts in Australia – Perth protest Thursday April 14

Image via Wikipedia

Perth Rally for Research

Media Alert ​​​​​​​​12 April 2011

Western Australians are joining a national campaign against Australian Government plans to cut medical research funding, with a Perth–based ‘Rally for Research’ in Forrest Place, at lunchtime on Thursday.

When:​Thursday 14 April, 12:00pm – 1:30pm

Where:​Forrest Place,

​​Murray St Mall, Perth

Speakers will include Nobel Laureate Barry Marshall, Former Australians of the Year Professor Fiona Wood and Professor Fiona Stanley (who is also Founding Director of the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research) and Western Australian Institute for Medical Research (WAIMR) Director, Peter Klinken.

Rick Parish, whose four year old son Elliot died from a brain tumour in February, will talk about the need for continuing medical research in Australia.

Other speakers will include people who have survived serious diseases due to medical research.

Scientists will be dressed in lab coats and patients will wear white, as a sign of support.

National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) grants supported more than 8,000 jobs in Australia in 2010.

Significant budget cuts will force our best scientists overseas and deprive West Australian families of hope.

For details on speakers or more information about the rally, please contact:

Carolyn Monaghan

(WA Institute for MedicalResearch) on cmonaghan

or Elizabeth Chester

(Telethon Institute for Child Health Research) on elizabeth

Related articles

• Australian medical researchers on the march (nature.com)

Australia – Media Release: WA Senator urges Government to take stand against nuclear weapons in UN

Australia must take stand against nuclear weapons
MEDIA RELEASE – Thursday 28 October 2010

Click the pic to visit the Greens website

The Australian Greens today urged the Government to support a United Nations draft resolution calling for a ban on the production, stockpiling and use of nuclear weapons to be voted on tomorrow in New York.

Greens spokesperson for nuclear issues, Senator for Western Australia Scott Ludlam, said the Government should take the opportunity to make a clear statement of support for a nuclear weapons convention.

“It is almost difficult to believe that the Government abstained from voting on the equivalent resolution last year,” said Senator Ludlam. “In 2009 124 countries supported the resolution, with only 31 against and Australia amongst the 21 member states that refused to take a stand on the issue.”

Draft resolution L.50 is a new version of the resolution adopted annually calling on the implementation of the 1996 International Court of Justice Advisory Opinion through the negotiation of a nuclear weapons convention prohibiting the development, production, testing, deployment, stockpiling, transfer, threat or use of nuclear weapons and providing for their elimination.

Senator Ludlam said the 2010 version of the resolution also includes statements affirming that International Humanitarian Law applies at all times, calling on the nuclear weapons states to undertake a number of nuclear disarmament steps, stressing that all UN members states need to make efforts to achieve a world without nuclear weapons and acknowledging the UN Secretary General’s five-point proposal for nuclear disarmament.

“Australia can show leadership on this issue. There have been recent positive signs in that regard such as the work of the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties and the report from Gareth Evans. Friday’s vote in the UN is a great opportunity to continue that progress,” said Senator Ludlam.

*With New York 15 hours behind AEDT the result of the vote may not be known in Australia until late tomorrow or early Saturday.

Related articles

• Australia Uranium – Lessons for WA in Territory’s uranium mine rejection (tonyserve.wordpress.com)
• Australia – Only Parliament should have power to declare war – WA Senator Scott Ludlum (tonyserve.wordpress.com)
• You: 17th resolution to ban nukes passed (search.japantimes.co.jp)
• Shan Cretin: A Nuclear-Free World Awaits Action by Obama, Senate (huffingtonpost.com)
• Oops! US Air Force loses 50 nukes (rt.com)
• 

Conservation Council of Western Australia : Golden Gecko Awards a public relations exercise for environmental disasters

See also story below on Government land theft

Golden Gecko Awards a public relations exercise for environmental disasters

Western Australia’s peak environment group today questioned the credibility of the Golden Gecko awards for environmental management in the mining and petroleum industry. The awards were announced last night by the Minister for Mines and Petroleum, Hon. Norman Moore.

Conservation Council Director Piers Verstegen said “Three of the projects that have received Golden Gecko awards are operating in areas that should be off-limits to the mining industry and instead protected. (Barrow Island nature reserve, Irvine Island in the Kimberley, and Jack Hills mine in the ecologically unique Banded Ironstone Ranges)

“Two of these projects were rejected by the EPA as environmentally unacceptable. (Chevron Barrow Island LNG plant and Pluton resources mining on Irvine Island)

“The EPA ruled against Chevron’s massive LNG development on Barrow Island, only to have their advice overturned by Government. Since then the project has had an appalling environmental record including numerous quarantine breaches, killing endangered turtles, and most recently the sinking of a service vessel carrying hundreds of liters of diesel.”

“Irvine Island in the Kimberley is another area where mining should not even be considered.”

After the Conservation Council appealed this project, the EPA stated in formal advice to the Appeals Convenor:

“Given the very high conservation values on and surrounding the island, and the currently near-pristine condition of the area, mining is seen as inappropriate”

“The idea that these projects should be given environmental awards suggests that the Golden Gecko awards are little more than a public relations exercise.”

“In a previous year the Esperance Port Authority received a Golden Gecko award for dust management before they went on to contaminate the town of Esperance with lead dust.”

“Perhaps these awards should be re-named the Golden Gecko Awards for environmental incompetence in the minerals industry” concluded Mr. Verstegen.

Piers Verstegen

	(08) 9420 7266
	(08) 9420 7273

http://www.conservationwa.asn.au/

Meanwhile the owners of land in the Kimberly accuse the Barnett Government of theft. Read ABC story here

Let’s pinch the Swan!

West Australian Youth Awards 2010 winners video and reaction to a protest by a finalist against mining companies

It’s my 10th year as a Judge in the Media and Charmaine Dragun Memorial Commendation categories – what a great night it was for these amazing young west aussies.

The future’s in good hands

Young Person of the Year Announcement and acceptance by Jeremiah Wordsworth.

Australian of the Year Professor Patrick McGorry speaks to Youth Minister Donna Farragher, clearly chuffed at the protest during the environment category.

Winner of the Charmaine Dragun Memorial media prize is Nicholas Sas – Albany Advertiser

Live tweets from the night, last tweet first

perthtones10:58pm via HootSuiteAs protestors exited, MC introd live band called ( I kid you not ) Fools Rush In !!! Guest Prof McGorry clearly enjoyed it Show Conversation

perthtones10:33pm via HootSuiteFiinalist, Kate Arabon was the person who spoke for the protestors who were then led out without further incident #wayouthawards

perthtones10:25pm via HootSuite3 youth protestors unfurled a banner & grabbed mic to say mining sponsors may give prizes but they devastate our environment#wayouthawards

perthtones10:23pm via HootSuite

Show Conversation

perthtones10:17pm via HootSuiteEnvironmenal activists disrupted awards with a banner and mic hijack to protest against mining destruction #wayouthawards

perthtones10:13pm via HootSuiteConservation Award winner is Alexander Craig #wayouthawards highly commended is Jessica Gill & Laura Ryan

perthtones10:09pm via HootSuiteWinner of the Participate Award is Tyson McEwan from Geraldton great young Yamatji man #wayouthawards

perthtones9:57pm via HootSuite@LoneFemaleTog Holly rocked the acceptance speech too Mags! She is magic#wayouthawardsShow Conversation

perthtones9:56pm via HootSuiteWinner of the Charmaine Dragun Memorial media prize is Nicholas Sas – Albany Advertiser clear winner #wayouthawards

perthtones9:52pm via HootSuiteKatanning Muslim youth development officer Juaini Taylor wins most outstanding youth worker #wayouthawards

perthtones9:50pm via HootSuiteCommunity activist & educator Holly Ransom wins the @ECU Educate award#wayouthawards

perthtones9:48pm via HootSuiteRefugee Jeremiah Wordsworth only knew refugee camps in Africa b4 arriving here, tonight his youth work won the Create Award#wayouthawards

perthtones9:45pm via HootSuiteJoshua Yates wins the Woodside Motivate Award – incredible young man#wayouthawards

perthtones9:42pm via HootSuite@youthtree wins BHP Innovate Award , well done Tim & team -Woooot! #wayouthawards

perthtones7:23pm via HootSuiteCongrats Flip Prior from @the_west best metro youth news story – and all listed herehttp://ow.ly/i/2E6v

Public release of Montara recommendations essential: Greens

Public release of Montara recommendations essential: Greens

The Australian Greens have called for the Government to publicly release the findings of the Montara Commission of Inquiry.

Speaking in Perth today, Senator Rachel Siewert, Australian Greens Marine spokesperson said the Montara inquiry recommendations would shape the future of the oil and gas industry.

“This spill occurred in August last year, yet to date we have seen no major changes to our regulatory processes, no major change to our compliance process and we haven’t seen any new marine protected areas put in place,” Senator Rachel Siewert said today.

“What we have seen is the government release new exploration areas, despite the Montara spill and the ongoing disaster in the US,” Senator Siewert said.

“President Obama has been more proactive. He placed a moratorium on deep water exploration and required compliance audits of drilling wells. This hasn’t been done in Australia – there’s no moratorium in deep water exploration and information about the ongoing safety audits has not been made available.

Senator Siewert said what Australians really want to hear is what the Inquiry recommends should be done to improve regulation and compliance, along with that the Government intends to do to ensure that we don’t see a spill like the Gulf one hitting our precious marine environments and coastlines.

“The information concerning the spill is already on the public record in the Commission of Inquiry. The different aspects of what’s gone wrong are already out there,” Senator Siewert said.

“A network of marine protected areas is essential to preserving our natural resources and supporting our sustainable industries, such as tourism and fisheries.

“We were very lucky the Montara spill did not end up on the mainland. We cannot rely on that luck again,” Senator Siewert concluded.

Kind Regards

Chris Redman

Media Officer
Senator Rachel Siewert – Australian Greens Senator for WA

P: (08) 9228 3277 | www.greensmps.org.au

Important news for activists, advocates and old hippie geeks :) “Camp Obama” coming to Perth via getup.org.au

Via the team at GetUp

Image via Wikipedia

The Obama campaign was one of the most successful on-the-ground campaigns in history. Millions of volunteers took the campaign to their neighbours and friends. Their secret? ‘Camp Obama’.

At ‘Camp Obama’ volunteers around the United States learnt how to integrate powerful stories with strategy and skills. Meeting each other at a million points of hope and energy, these stories transformed a political campaign into a popular movement. Now we’re bringing this powerful training to Perth.

We’ve already seen in the lead-up to the federal election that we’re back to politics as usual: sound bites, spin doctors and media pundits ignoring real people and their stories. This is the opportunity to learn the secret weapon of the Obama campaign so we can work together to make a massive impact this election.

Yes, I’m interested in attending the Community Organising Workshop.

Where: Venue TBA – somewhere in Central Perth
When: 15th and 16th of May
Registration cut off: 10th of May
Cost: $20 (this is to cover costs and includes lunch)
Spaces are limited — don’t miss out!

Click here to read the draft agenda and apply for the Community Organising Workshop

When you arrive on Saturday morning you’ll be greeted by an enthusiastic group of highly caffeinated facilitators. You’ll mingle with members of various organisations, like the Conservation Council of WA and the Union Climate Connectors. You might even be surprised to find one of your neighbours there.

And there will be a moment that day–when the room falls silent and your breath catches in your throat, as a story captures you completely. Often it’s the quiet person in the room that manages to blow everyone away. Last year, in Adelaide it was a story about the struggle to speak out against homophobia from within the church. In Sydney, an engineer who gained the courage, and learnt the skills, to talk with his coal-mining company colleagues about new directions.

With the looming federal election just months away, the skills, strategies and stories you’ll learn to tell will give you a powerful voice on issues from climate change to refugees. Click here if you’re interested in coming along, and we’ll give you a call to talk about the workshop:

Click here to find out more and apply for the Community Organising Workshop

The spin doctors, attack ads and focus group tested sound bites are waiting in the wings. Media pundits have their eyes on the political horse race, ignoring the people affected by the policies they squabble over. In this campaign, we will tell the stories of these people. Together we will provide the passion, humanity and energy so absent in the practiced smiles and hollow lines of our politicians.

Hope to see you,

Sara, for the GetUp team

PS – Can’t make the workshop but still want to be involved in the election campaign? Click here.

Australian Mental Health at a critical stage, you can make a difference today and tomorrow wherever you are – WA: will Premier Barnett stand up for mental health?

Mental ill health is the leading killer of Australians under 45 and the leading cause of disability for all Australians.

Premier Barnettt, PM Rudd

But with the biggest health reforms in decades up for negotiation on Monday, mental ill health may be forgotten – unless we act now.

In just 48 hours, the Prime Minister and the leaders of every Australian state and territory will sit down in Canberra to negotiate a new plan for healthcare across the nation.

In their offices across Australia, our state Premiers and territory Chief Ministers are working all weekend in preparation for Monday’s meeting. They are deciding where to push hard, and where to compromise.

We’ve found the office fax number for WA Premier, Colin Barnett

We all want to see reform of our hospitals. But tackling mental health will require more than increasing the number of beds in our hospitals, or changing the source of health funding. More of the same won’t work.

There are solutions. Here’s just one example: there are 30 Government run Headspace centres across Australia. An extra $100million a year would expand capacity in these centres and build an extra 60 across the nation. This alone would double the number of young Australians receiving treatment for mental ill health.

On Monday, the PM will need every Premier on board, so here in WA, Colin Barnett will have huge influence. These decisions are being made in his office right now – let’s fill it with faxes asking him not to come home without mental health care reform:
www.getup.org.au/campaign/healthreform&id=1033

There must be no health reform without mental health reform. Together we can make sure this silent disease, which half of us will experience in our lifetime, is on the agenda at Monday’s crucial meeting of all levels of Australian Government.

Thanks for all that you do,
TheGetUp team

PS –

We’ve joined forces with Australian of the year, mental health expert Professor Patrick McGorry to call for mental health reform.

Already, tens of thousands of GetUp members have petitioned the Prime Minister and raised $85,000 for the campaign to put our message on TV.

Now it is our state Premiers who hold the keys to reform – click here contact yours now.

Those abused in state care abandoned by the W.A. and Federal Governments as the UK apologises

The Peak Child Abuse group ASCA today tweeted the news of  British PM Gordon Brown’s apology to Australian child migrants acknoweldging it’s crucial to healing

~

please click the blue link for the UK angle

“ http://bit.ly/aoM64h via @ASCAORG > urgent action needed 4 #redress 2 “

~

Labor and Liberal have failed at federal and state levels to discover a modicum of compassion.

~

Kevin Rudd was on twitter today congratulating the aussie girl who won olympic gold in the ski aerials, saying gee we’ll have to set up a new ski facility won’t we.

~

I had the temerity to reply on twitter

” @KevinRuddPM So if I win Gold at the Olympics, you cold fund some community mental health facilities – I’m starting training now Kevin! ”

~

Taxpayer’s money is used to stage boxing matches (btw I MC martial arts and support boxing ) build footy stadia, freshen up our dullsville foreshore and there’s always lots of taxcash when it comes to self promoting “government” commercials.

For WA’s Barnett/Buswell and the previous Labor wombats to halve compensation for victims of abuse in state care is disgusting.

~

Meanwhile, mainstream media is so tabloid and dollar driven that these issues are skimmed over or ignored, but gee my colleagues like to have a mass debate over daylight saving or shopping hours – day and night!

~

Nevertheless I am an eternal optimist ( sometimes a bit jaded ) and have high hopes for activism and advocacy on the net through media like this blog and on twitter.

~

So please join in, add a comment, ask a few questions of your local “member” and raise your voice for those who’ve already died as well as those currently in dire need.

~

The state government, meanwhile has announced that victims who are expected to die before christmas will get their meagre share of the halved compo package earlier than the others – really, it’s in the letter

Letter from Redress – click the image to visit the Govt website

It IS life or death – and for far too many of us.

tony

Dr Rubin Hurricane Carter brings hope to new Perth legal team working to free wrongly jailed people

John Button Dr Rubin Carter Andrew Mallard - pic from Paul Kane -Getty Images

JUSTICEwa has been energised by the HURRICANE during his visit to Perth and official pics and video will be posted soon, as well as some opportunities for YOU to make a difference.

We had some of the State’s leading figures at the Gala Dinner, Justin Langer, Fmr Senator Jo Valentine, Silk of the ilk of John McCusker QC who was honoured with a video from those he’d won freedom for.

The speeches by Andrew Mallard, John Button and Dr Rubin Carter were backed by support from the UK via video, with members of the Birmingham Six and Guildford Four Paddy Hill and Gerry Conlon backing JUSTICEwa’s efforts

Please click the image below for their video message and short intro from @perthtones

Please click this blue link for Video coverage of Dr Carter’s visit ahead of the Gala Dinner from thewest.com.au westTV

Kudos to colleagues –  Estelle Backburne (world’s best investigative dancer! ) the West’s Colleen Egan and Brett Christian for their ongoing work of balanced reporting in the difficult area of wrongful imprisonment and corruption.

West Australians abused in care exposed to more insult as Barnett Govt lays out a compensation plan that’s already had its budget halved, is late and facing more delays – SHAME

The “rollout” of payments to West Australians abused in State care has begun and incredibly, it has added more grief to the already considerable insult to the survivors.

We’ll hear in coming weeks on this blog some of the voices who are affected by this cold and heartless administration.

Pasted below the West story is a copy of one of the advisory letters from the Government Redress office.

from JESSICA STRUTT at  The West Australian

Only about 100 of almost 6000 applicants to the Redress scheme will today receive details of their ex-gratia payments as the first round of offers are made by the Government to former State wards.

The State Government is expected to face a backlash when it reveals the four categories of payments, more than 10 months after applications to the scheme closed.

A newsletter that applicants will start receiving this week says that, according to early assessments, about half of all applicants who detailed claims of abuse and/or neglect in State care will be eligible for the two lowest amounts available of $5000 and $13,000.

please read the full article here

Letter from Redress – click the image to visit the Govt website

Help and info for people dealing with depression,panic,schizophrenia and other mental health issues – Consumer Organisation CoMHWA’s Update and good news (please forward to your networks)

West Australians now have an authentic voice on mental health issues, please share the brochure below with your contacts and join/support this vital work.

I will be hosting a mental health forum at the end of March at the Wembley Convention Centre focussed on providing info on free and useful treatment and management approaches for those affected by mental illness.

Parts of the forum will be videod to share with people who are house-bound or living outside the city.

If you have a friend or loved one affected by depression,anxiety, panic or bipolar, come along to find out how much there is that can be done to save lives and improve life quality.

cheers
tony

Information Circular No 2 February 2010 A West Australian Based Mental Health Consumer Organisation CoMHWA Consumers of Mental Health WA (Inc) Mental Illness is a pause…not the end! GREAT NEWS!! Lotterywest Grant Received It is with delight that we advise members and our supporters of CoMHWA that we have been successful in receiving a positive result from our grant application to Lotterywest. We have received funding to the value of $17, 024.00 for: § Computer equipment § Governance training for the management committee § Professional strategic and business planning This is very exciting as it means it is possible for us to demonstrate to potential funding bodies a strong plan for the future so as to secure ongoing funding. The idea of having an independent Strategic Planning specialist work with us to do a Strategic Plan means we can make professional plans for the future that work toward making CoMHWA a comprehensive and vital consumer run organisation. § In doing our Strategic Plan our planning specialist will first read and consider carefully the results of the consultations with consumers undertaken over the last several years. Much of this consultation feedback informed the current CoMHWA objectives. We feel this review is important as part of the process of setting plans for the future. § In doing our Strategic Plan we will meet with members and other consumers in the community so people can have an opportunity to have input into the strategic plan (stay tuned for more details). § In carrying out our Strategic Plan we will demonstrate our ability to be a powerful representative voice for mental health consumers in WA. In the meantime we ask people to keep cheering for us and please remember that if we work together amazing things can happen. Other steps are being planned and we will keep you up to date. CoMHWA currently We remain an unfunded organisation and it has been up to a small group of dedicated people over several years to get this far. We all are unpaid and each volunteers time and knowledge to build a WA based mental health consumer organisation carries out our mission and objectives (for more on CoMHWA’s objectives and values click). We would like to assure our members and supporters that we are working really hard behind the scenes and forging ahead. We are proud of our efforts and excited that they have been fruitful thanks to the support of our members, Richmond Fellowship WA, WAAMH, and Lotterywest who are behind us all the way. If any members want to get involved and help, we welcome your expertise or if anyone in the community would like to join in please feel welcome to become a member (membership forms downloadable from our webpage). Our hope is that with a professional strategic plan and business plan we can then secure additional funding to employ someone who will carry out some of the business of the organisation and look for recurrent funding. We wish you all well. Kind Regards on behalf of the CoMHWA Management Committee More Info on CoMHWA ** Please see our latest newsletters online CoMHWA (Inc) invites new members Contact us today or see our application forms and newsletters online Contact Consumers of Mental Health WA (Inc) C/- PO Box 682, BENTLEY, WA 6982 Ph: 9350 8824 (message) Email: comhwa_inc Webpage link from: www.rfwa.org.au Direct link <click here> ABN: 95581286940

Consumers of Mental Health WA (Inc) CoMHWA

‘mental illness is a pause…not the end’

C/- PO Box 682

BENTLEY WA 6982

(08) 9350 8824 (message)

Webpage Link from: www.rfwa.org.au

Email: comhwa_inc

CoMHWA_Information Circular No 2_Print version.pdf

Japanese Whaling Ships intercepted by Seashepherd vessel, Captain Paul Watson calls for action by Australia and New Zealand

The Steve Irwin and Bob Barker have succeeded again in stopping illegal Japanese whaling in Australian waters off Antarctica.

Please click the pic to visit & support Sea Shepherd work to protect whales

Steve Irwin’s skipper Paul Watson spoke with Tony Serve at 2300 w.s.t Feb 8

2 More here on the shameful Japanese prosecution of activists who revealed a blackmarket in whale meat, showing flesh from the Nisshin Maru to media in Tokyo last year – the United Nations  has now condemned the arrests

follow 6PR on twitter – Perth talkback radio

3 Earlier audio from the Steve Irwin broadcast on 6PR and online here

4 Greens call for an end to Japanese spy planes flying out of Perth to help whalers

Greens call for end to Aussie spy planes aiding Japanese whaling

Click the pic to visit and support the Sea Shepherd team

Greens call for end to Aussie spy planes aiding Japanese whaling

(click here for radio interview with 2nd officer of the Steve Irwin as she sailed south of australia on sunday )

The Australian Greens today introduced a private Senators Bill to ban any form of Australian assistance to Japanese whaling, such as the use of spy planes.

“My Bill creates a new offence making it unlawful to provide services, support or resources to an organisation engaged in whaling so the Australian government and local companies can no longer assist Japan’s brutal whaling regime,” said Australian Greens whaling spokesperson Senator Rachel Siewert.

“Many Australians were appalled when it was revealed that Australian air services were used by a company with connections to the whalers to assist in this summer’s slaughter.

“The assistance provided to the whalers was to track the main protest vessel of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society so that a ship from the whaling fleet could hinder the Sea Shepherd’s pursuit of the main fleet.

“Without the Sea Shepherd on its tail, the main whaling fleet could undertake its mission of killing whales more easily.

“In response to the information that the Japanese whaling fleet had hired Australian planes from Hobart and Albany to track the Sea Shepherd ships’ movements, Senator Bob Brown committed the Greens to act to ensure no such assistance could be provided in the future.

“Over 3500 people have signed an on-line petition supporting our position and we urge the Government to listen to the depth of public feeling and support the Bill.

“We want to go beyond the empty anti-whaling rhetoric of this federal government and ensure we don’t actually assist the illegal slaughter of whales in Australian waters,” Senator Siewert concluded.

The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Amendment (Prohibition of Support for Whaling) Bill 2010 (the Bill) amends the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) to create a new offence related to providing assistance for whaling.

Fernando de Freitas
Media Advisor

Australian Greens

Suite S1.36 Parliament House, Canberra ACT
P: 02 6277 3467

Fernando.defreitas
www.GreensMPs.org.au

audio – New tactics from anti whaling ship MV Steve Irwin as she sails into the Southern Ocean

After replenishing in Fremantle (the port city of Perth, West Australia) the Seashepherd.org vessel MV Steve Irwin is making good headway south to again protect whales being hunted by a Japanese “research” fleet.

The crew face increasingly violent opposition from the Japanese “research” ships illegally slaughtering whales.

They are there because the Australian Government has refused to do the right thing and force the whale killing to stop.

Click the blue link to hear the 8 minute interview on 6pr.com.au with

Pedro Montero on Jan 31st 0430 Perth time

pedro-montero-mv-steve-irwin.m4a

Greens to support the BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto production joint venture project in relation to Western Australian iron ore assets

MEDIA RELEASE

7 December 2009

Greens to support the BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto production joint venture project in relation to Western Australian iron ore assets

“Such an amalgamation of assets and liabilities in the Pilbara will have many sustainable benefits that the Greens endorse”, Greens (WA) MLC Robin Chapple said today in relation to the announcement of the joint venture project.

“It will lead to lower production costs and place Australia at an advantage in the international market place” Mr Chapple said.

“Combining adjacent mines into single operations will have two environmental benefits; first, cumulative impacts should now be more readily assessed and dealt with; and second, end of life mine planning and pit infill can be approached in a more regionally strategic manner”, said Mr Chapple.

Joint use of rail infrastructure will mean more energy efficient line use and curtail the development of standalone rail systems that were required in the previous competitive environment.

“With JV planning, the future rail footprint will be smaller than would otherwise have been necessary”, said Mr Chapple.

As far back as 1964, the National Bulk carriers mining company had called for an integrated plan for the railing and shipment of iron ore out of the Pilbara (referred to as the Ludwig Plan). In June 1992, the then Government endorsed the Pilbara 21 Final Strategy Report in which the need for an integrated rail network was again highlighted.

However the Greens’ support for the infrastructure JV proposed by BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto is conditional on the fact that there will be no job losses caused by the joint venture.

“Mr Barnett’s push for a more equitable return on royalties derived from the now commercial iron ore fines market is to be supported, but not by way of a threat of blocking this amalgamation”, said Mr Chapple.

All the best

Robin Chapple MLC

Member for the Mining and Pastoral Region

PO Box 94, West Perth WA 6872

41 Havelock Street, West Perth. WA 6005

Phone: (08) 9486 8255 | Email: Robin.Chapple | Freecall: 1800 138 610

This message and its attachments may contain legally privileged or confidential information. It is intended solely for the named addressee. If you are not the addressee indicated in this message (or responsible for delivery of the message to the addressee), you may not copy or deliver this message or its attachments to anyone. Rather, you should permanently delete this message and its attachments and kindly notify the sender by reply email. Any content of this message and its attachments which does not relate to the official business of the above mentioned organisations or person must be taken not to have been sent or endorsed by any of them. No warranty is made that the e-mail or attachment(s) are free from computer virus or other defect.

from @perthtones’ iPhone

Related articles by Zemanta

• Rio and BHP Sign Deal on Ore Venture (nytimes.com)

The fawning “interview” with Hsien Harper including the original declaration of myself as a supporter and sometimes advisor to the Greens – think of it as the Unauthorized Hsien Harper Fan Club, leave a comment, join the hugfest ;-)

By the way it’s my Blog and I’ll support, even fawn over, whomever I choose.

On air I declare my bias and occasionally cop flak from those opposed to my brand of social justice.

The whistleblower in this case called me a ” tofu muncher ” – that’s it man, beads at 50 paces. ( can’t stomach the stuff  :^p  )

IC’s Daniel Hatch was actually quite fair and almost accurate in giving me a “serve.” Just the misquote ( I always record my end of an interview ) where he asked if I’d mentioned the incident on air over the weekend and I said no.

I often cover politics, as I have for 30 years, but I’m not a working journo now and 6PR’s intelligent and well informed listeners are reglarly reminded of my ageing hippie bias – some occasionally take the time to show their objection with clever use of seldom used words and references to family members.

My Apologies to Alan Carpenter too, I do think he’s a dork but did not mean to scar him with my heartless jibe making the west, which was in fact intended to be a PRIVATE comment. (until I shot myself in the foot with the upload )

IC’s Daniel Hatch is good on the descriptions too, here’s a couple from his PUBLIC twitter feed

• Daniel to @la…….e At least it’s not (Female Federal Minister) That woman is like a pethedine overdose every time she talks. Puts me to sleep without fail. about 7 hours ago from web in reply to la…….e

• Daniel to @m..a Haven’t seen the film. I know it’s Richard Gere but there’s no suggestion (a Premier ) and the barmaid used a gerbil is there? about 8 hours ago from web in reply to m…a

No hard feelings mate – I would have run it too, just not the Carps bit, he’s got kids you know, as do I – you’ll note I protected your correspondents’ IDs

…anyway, below is my fawning adoration of someone who WILL make a difference when she’s elected to serve the people of Willagee ( minus the private chat before and after )

Willagee by-election – a chance for a better way forward with Greens WA candidate Hsien Harper

Hsien Harper brings fresh energy to represent the people of Willagee – in more ways than one

Click here for audio of Hsien Harper with Tony Serve

Alan Carpenter failed the electorate, and Labor is likely to focus their new candidate on issues outside the electorate if he were to win the seat, doing what the factions say.

This by-election is an historic chance for the people of Willagee to shake up the powers that be and vote Greens WA for fresh energy in the community and clean, job creating, sustainable energy for the state.

tony serve – Greens supporter, occasional media consultant

Visit and support Hsien on Facebook

Meet Hsien this Friday at a fundraiser for the Greens WA Willagee campaign, with: Music and entertainment from Mr and Sunbird, Stillfire, Nat Ripepi and Willagee locals Zombie Step

Doors open at 7:30pm, just $5 for entry. Meet Hsien Harper, and talk to her about the issues that affect YOU

Resources, conferences, news, jobs and events from Western Australia’s peak Social Jusice body – WACOSS eNews 223, Available Now!

General WACOSS News
	WACOSS 2010 Conference – Call for Abstracts
	ACOSS Community Sector Survey Now Open
	Community Employers WA Petition: Increase funding for improved salaries for NFP community sector staff …SIGN NOW!
	Join the Free WACOSS Members Cricket Tipping Competition for plenty of fun and prizes!
Social Policy News
	Opportunity to Comment: National Water Initiative (NWI) pricing principles and the consultation regulation impact statement for the NWI pricing principles
	The Gas Supply (Gas Quality Specifications) Bill 2009 Passed in State Parliament
	Consultation Information – Strategic Energy Initiative
	ACOSS Media Release: How much does it cost to raise a teenager? Family payments don’t add up
	Consultation Period Following Publication of Social Housing Taskforce Report Now Open
	Productivity Commission Releases Draft Report into NFP Sector
Sector Services and Development News
	Tickets to ER Conference Dinner Still Available!!! Wednesday 25th November
	WACOSS Emergency Relief Conference – Conference Registration starts 8.15am, Wednesday 25th November, Perth Town Hall
	NFPN Events: Unfair Dismissal Information Seminar, Tuesday 24th November
	Not-for-Profit Day, Thursday 10th December
	The Project Manager’s Toolbox, Tuesday 1st December
Corporate Services News
	WACOSS Members – Take advantage of free Not For Profit Network Membership now!
	Make a difference and become a WACOSS Member now!
Sector News
	Metropolitan Road Trauma Support Group
	Generation Y Depression Support Group
	The National Child Protection Clearinghouse is changing!
	Nominate Now for the WA Association for Mental Health Caring Employer Award 2010
	Multicultural Advisory Group Membership: Call for Expressions of Interest
	Nominate now for the 2010 Consumer Protection Awards
	2010 Disability Support Worker Awards – nominate your stars!
Community Sector Positions Vacant
	Ruah Aboriginal Tenancy Support seeks Housing & Family Support Worker – Action Research Focus
	Ruah Centre – WA ‘Street to Home’ Program seeks Assertive Outreach Workers
	Communicare seeks Therapeutic Program Officer
Upcoming Sector Events
	Women’s Council for Domestic and Family Violence and Amnesty International present: 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence
	Starick Services Inc. invite you to attend their Children’s Annual Art Exhibition in participation with the 16-Days of Activism Against Gender Violence
	Men of the Trees: Trees and Life Seminar, Perth City Gardens, Monday 23rd 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
	Green Apple Development – Youth Mental Health Training Opportunities
	Better Boards Conference 23-25th July 2010

Willagee by-election – a chance for a better way forward with Greens WA candidate Hsien Harper

Hsien Harper brings fresh energy to represent the people of Willagee - in more ways than one

Click here for audio of Hsien Harper with Tony Serve

Alan Carpenter failed the electorate, and Labor is likely to focus their new candidate on issues outside the electorate if he were to win the seat, doing what the factions say.

This by-election is an historic chance for the people of Willagee to shake up the powers that be and vote Greens WA for fresh energy in the community and clean, job creating, sustainable energy for the state.

tony serve – Greens supporter, occasional media consultant

Visit and support Hsien on Facebook

Meet Hsien this Friday at a fundraiser for the Greens WA Willagee campaign, with: Music and entertainment from Mr and Sunbird, Stillfire, Nat Ripepi and Willagee locals Zombie Step

Doors open at 7:30pm, just $5 for entry. Meet Hsien Harper, and talk to her about the issues that affect YOU

Muay Thai Battle Collossal VIII ringside pics – kickboxing from Perth

Muay Thai Battle Collossal VIII ringside pics

Another great Tournament from Phon Martdee’s muaythaipromotions.com

pics from iPhone, slideshow in iPhoto.

music

Hilltop Hoods – STILL STANDING – click the pic for tour details and to buy music

The best aussie hip hop around - from Adelaide

 

 

 

 

Australian Prime Minister should take control over catastrophic oil spill disaster

Prime Minister should take control over catastrophic oil spill disaster

West Atlas Oil Spill 1

 

Australian Greens Leader Bob Brown has called on the Prime Minister to remove Martin Ferguson as a Minister and take control over the catastrophic West Atlas oil spill disaster.

On August 23 Minister Ferguson said “the oil spill is not as big as first thought.” He also claimed that “it is evaporating naturally”.

“A full judicial inquiry should have begun from the outset. An independent watchdog would have ensured all the necessary expertise from around the world was employed to prevent and reduce the tragic environmental impacts of the spill,” Senator Brown said.

“Leaving this clean-up operation to the drilling company is not good enough. It’s time for Kevin Rudd to step in and do what the Minister should have done way back in August.”

“This is the Minister that has rewarded the same company with massive new exploration licenses in the middle of this catastrophe,” Senator Brown said.

Media contact: Peter Stahel 0433 005 727

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

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

image0062

image0072

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

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.

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