ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10
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Acknowledgments
This report reflects the efforts of many people. Special thanks go to the departmental
employees involved in contributing, coordinating and clearing material, as well as:
Annual Report Team: Angie Stiles, Alicia Mount, Kate Carey and Tim Holt
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Copyright
ISSN 1835–9167
© Commonwealth of Australia 2010
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or posted at http://www.ag.gov.au/cca.
Letter of transmittal
Contents
Part 1 - Overview ............................................................................................... 1
The Secretary’s overview ................................................................................ 1
Responding to the economic downturn and preparing for recovery ............... 1
Lifting skills across the population ............................................................ 2
Increasing job opportunities and social inclusion ........................................ 3
Improved support for parents and young children ...................................... 4
Building better schools and universities .................................................... 5
Creating a fairer workplace ..................................................................... 6
Closing the gap on Indigenous disadvantage ............................................. 6
Achievements within DEEWR ................................................................... 7
Looking to the future .............................................................................. 7
Departmental overview .................................................................................. 8
DEEWR Executive and departmental structure ................................................... 9
Lisa Paul—Secretary ............................................................................... 9
Robert Griew—Associate Secretary .........................................................10
Tony Cook—Deputy Secretary ................................................................10
Michele Bruniges—Deputy Secretary .......................................................11
Michael Manthorpe—Deputy Secretary .....................................................12
Kathryn Campbell—Deputy Secretary ......................................................12
Sandra Parker—Deputy Secretary ...........................................................13
John Kovacic—Deputy Secretary .............................................................13
Ewen McDonald—Deputy Secretary .........................................................14
Portfolio overview .........................................................................................15
Part 2 – Report on performance ....................................................................... 18
Outcome 1 ...................................................................................................18
Outcome 1 key priorities ........................................................................19
Outcome 1 key achievements .................................................................20
Program 1.1 Support for the Child Care System ........................................21
Program 1.2 Child Care Fee Assistance ....................................................24
Program 1.3 Early Childhood Education ...................................................28
Departmental outputs for Outcome 1 ......................................................31
Outcome 2 ...................................................................................................32
Outcome 2 key priorities ........................................................................33
Outcome 2 key achievements .................................................................34
Program 2.1 Government Schools National Support ..................................36
Program 2.2 Non-government Schools National Support ............................47
Program 2.3 Schools Support .................................................................50
Program 2.4 Trade Training ...................................................................62
Program 2.5 Digital Education Revolution ................................................64
Program 2.6 National Action Plan on Literacy and Numeracy ......................65
Program 2.7 Building the Education Revolution .........................................67
Program 2.8 Smarter Schools—Low SES School Communities National
Partnership ..........................................................................................71
Program 2.9 Smarter Schools—Improving Teacher Quality National
Partnership ..........................................................................................71
Program 2.10 Youth Support ..................................................................74
Program 2.11 School Student Assistance .................................................78
Departmental outputs for Outcome 2 ......................................................80
Outcome 3 ...................................................................................................82
Key priorities ........................................................................................84
Key achievements .................................................................................85
Program 3.1 Higher Education Support ....................................................89
Program 3.2 Higher Education Loan Program ......................................... 103
Program 3.3 Tertiary Student Assistance ............................................... 106
Program 3.4 Vocational Education and Training ...................................... 108
Program 3.5 VET National Support ........................................................ 110
Australian Apprenticeship Access Program ............................................. 117
Workplace English Language and Literacy Program ................................. 117
Language, Literacy and Numeracy Program............................................ 117
Program 3.6 International Education Support ......................................... 121
Departmental outputs for Outcome 3 .................................................... 132
OutCome 4 ................................................................................................ 137
Key priorities ...................................................................................... 137
Key achievements ............................................................................... 138
Program 4.1 Employment Services ........................................................ 140
Program 4.2 Indigenous Employment .................................................... 150
Program 4.3 Disability Employment Services .......................................... 153
Program 4.4 Working Age Payments ..................................................... 157
Customer service and quality ............................................................... 164
Departmental outputs for Outcome 4 .................................................... 165
Outcome 5 ................................................................................................. 167
Outcome 5 key priorities ...................................................................... 168
Outcome 5 key achievements ............................................................... 169
Program 5.1 Employee Assistance......................................................... 171
Program 5.2 Workplace Assistance ........................................................ 172
Outcome effectiveness indicators .......................................................... 175
Workplace relations policy advice .......................................................... 179
Workplace relations legislation development .......................................... 181
Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner ............................................. 185
Remuneration Tribunal ........................................................................ 185
Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal ................................................... 186
Departmental outputs for Outcome 5 .................................................... 186
Part 3 – Corporate accountability ................................................................... 190
Executive committees ................................................................................. 190
Ethical standards ........................................................................................ 191
Departmental planning ................................................................................ 191
Strategic plan ..................................................................................... 191
Business planning ............................................................................... 191
Enabling DEEWR’s business.......................................................................... 191
Reconciliation Action Plan .................................................................... 191
Strategic people management and workforce capability ........................... 193
Recruitment ....................................................................................... 194
Remuneration and conditions of employment ......................................... 196
Performance management systems ....................................................... 196
Workforce profile ................................................................................ 196
Salary ranges and non-salary benefits ................................................... 199
Performance pay ................................................................................ 200
Occupational health and safety ............................................................. 200
Better ways of working ........................................................................ 202
Service charter ................................................................................... 203
Implementing the government’s initiatives ............................................. 203
Ministerial and parliamentary services ................................................... 203
State Network .................................................................................... 204
Risk management ............................................................................... 205
Information and communications technology .......................................... 205
Social policy ............................................................................................... 206
Key priorities in social policy ................................................................ 207
Key achievements ............................................................................... 208
Social policy initiatives ........................................................................ 209
Audit processes .......................................................................................... 213
Internal Audit ..................................................................................... 213
Audit Committee................................................................................. 214
Fraud control ...................................................................................... 214
External scrutiny ........................................................................................ 215
Parliamentary committee inquiries ........................................................ 215
Significant judicial decisions ................................................................. 217
Significant Administrative Tribunal decisions .......................................... 217
Reports on the operations of the department by the Commonwealth
Ombudsman ...................................................................................... 217
Reports by the Auditor-General ............................................................ 217
Grant programs .................................................................................. 217
Financial management ................................................................................ 218
Financial performance ......................................................................... 218
Purchasing ......................................................................................... 218
Consultancies ..................................................................................... 218
Advertising ........................................................................................ 218
Exempt contracts ................................................................................ 219
Asset management ............................................................................. 219
Part 4 - Appendixes ........................................................................................ 224
Appendix 1 - Commonwealth Disability Strategy ............................................. 224
Policy adviser role ............................................................................... 224
Regulator role .................................................................................... 227
Purchaser role .................................................................................... 227
Provider role ...................................................................................... 229
Appendix 2 - Ecologically sustainable development and environmental performance
reporting ................................................................................................... 230
Program activities incorporating ecologically sustainable development
principles ........................................................................................... 230
The department’s environmental performance ........................................ 234
Appendix 3 - Freedom of information ............................................................ 238
Organisations and functions ................................................................. 238
Decision-making powers that affect members of the public ...................... 238
Arrangements for outside participation .................................................. 242
Categories of documents held by the department ................................... 255
Facilities for access to documents available free of charge or for purchase . 256
Access to documents ........................................................................... 263
Freedom of information requests in 2009–10 ......................................... 263
Appendix 4 - Tripartite consultation on International labour Organization matters
264
Government replies to questionnaires.................................................... 264
Re-examination at appropriate intervals of unratified conventions and of
recommendations ............................................................................... 265
Questions arising out of reports made to the ILO under Article 22 of the ILO
Constitution ....................................................................................... 266
Appendix 5 - Commonwealth involvement in proceedings before courts and
tribunals .................................................................................................... 268
Fair Work Australia ............................................................................. 268
Federal Court ..................................................................................... 269
Australian Industrial Relations Commission ............................................ 269
Appendix 6 - advertising and market research ................................................ 270
Appendix 7 - Consultants and consultancy services ......................................... 272
The department’s policy on selecting consultants .................................... 272
Summary of active consultancies .......................................................... 272
Details of consultancies ....................................................................... 272
Appendix 8 - Errors in the 2008–09 annual report .......................................... 281
Outcome 2—Schools ........................................................................... 281
Outcome 3—Higher education .............................................................. 281
Outcome 4—Vocational education and training ....................................... 282
Outcome 7—Labour market assistance .................................................. 282
Outcome 8—Workforce participation ..................................................... 282
Part 3—Management and accountability................................................. 282
Appendix 1—Commonwealth Disability Strategy ..................................... 282
Appendix 3—Freedom of information ..................................................... 282
Appendix 9 - Agency resource statements and resources for Outcomes ............. 283
Outcome 1 ......................................................................................... 284
Outcome 2 ......................................................................................... 285
Outcome 3 ......................................................................................... 288
Outcome 4 ......................................................................................... 291
Outcome 5 ......................................................................................... 292
Part 5 – Financial performance reporting ....................................................... 297
Independent Auditor's Report ....................................................................... 297
Financial statements ................................................................................... 300
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations STATEMENT
OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME for the period ended 30 June 2010 ............ 300
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations BALANCE
SHEET as at 30 June 2010 .................................................................. 301
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations STATEMENT
OF CHANGES IN EQUITY as at 30 June 2010 .......................................... 302
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations CASH FLOW
STATEMENT for the period ended 30 June 2010 ...................................... 303
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations SCHEDULE
OF COMMITMENTS as at 30 June 2010 ................................................. 304
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations SCHEDULE
OF CONTINGENCIES as at 30 June 2010 ............................................... 306
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations SCHEDULE
OF ASSET ADDITIONS as at 30 June 2010 ............................................. 306
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations SCHEDULE
OF ADMINISTERED ITEMS ................................................................... 307
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations Notes To And
Forming Part Of The Financial Statements ..................................................... 311
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies ................................. 311
Note 2. Events Occurring after the Balance Sheet Date ............................ 326
Note 3. Expenses ................................................................................ 327
Note 4. Income .................................................................................. 329
Note 5. Financial Assets ....................................................................... 331
Note 6. Non-Financial Assets ................................................................ 333
Note 7. Payables ................................................................................. 338
Note 8. Provisions ............................................................................... 339
Note 9. Restructuring .......................................................................... 340
Note 10. Cash Flow Reconciliation ......................................................... 342
Note 11. Contingent Liabilities and Assets .............................................. 343
Note 12. Senior Executive Remuneration ............................................... 344
Note 13. Remuneration of Auditors ....................................................... 346
Note 14. Financial Instruments ............................................................. 347
Note 15. Income Administered on Behalf of Government Revenue ............ 350
Note 16. Expenses Administered on Behalf of Government ....................... 351
Note 17. Assets Administered on Behalf of Government ........................... 354
Note 18. Liabilities Administered on Behalf of Government ....................... 358
Note 19. Administered Reconciliation Table ............................................ 360
Note 20. Administered Contingent Assets and Liabilities .......................... 361
Note
Note
Note
Note
Note
Note
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
Administered Financial Instruments ......................................... 362
Unfunded Superannuation Provision for Australian Universities .... 368
Appropriations ....................................................................... 369
Special Accounts .................................................................... 380
Compensation and Debt Relief ................................................. 387
Reporting of Outcomes ........................................................... 388
Part 6 - References ......................................................................................... 391
Glossary .................................................................................................... 391
Acronyms .................................................................................................. 394
Department websites .................................................................................. 397
Compliance Index ....................................................................................... 402
List of Figures
Chart P1.1 Executive and departmental structure at 30 June 2010 ..............................15
Chart P1.2 Portfolio ministers, outcomes and programs structures, and agencies at 30
June 2010 ............................................................................................17
Chart 2.1 Percentage of Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 Indigenous and non-Indigenous students at
or above the national minimum standards in reading, writing, spelling,
grammar and punctuation, and numeracy, NAPLAN 2009 ...........................42
Chart 2.2 Percentage of Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students above, at or below the national
minimum standards in reading, writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation,
and numeracy, NAPLAN 2009 .................................................................43
Chart 2.3 Apparent retention rates of full-time secondary students, Indigenous and nonIndigenous students from Years 7 and 8 to Year 12 ...................................47
Chart 2.4 Apparent retention rate of full-time students from Years 7/8 to Year 12, 2004
to 2009 ...............................................................................................61
Chart 3.1 Undergraduate commencements and completions for 2007-2009 calendar
years ................................................................................................. 103
Chart 3.2 Australian Apprenticeships commencements, 2007-2009 calendar years .... 120
Chart 3.3 Australian Apprenticeships completions, 2007-2009 calendar years ........... 121
Chart 3.4 International student enrolments, 2006 to 2009, by sector ...................... 131
Chart 4.1 Labour force participation rate and employment-to-population ratio: persons
aged 15–64 years: trend data, June 1978 to June 2010 ........................... 146
Chart 4.2 Average duration of unemployment per labour force member, June 1985 to
June 2010 .......................................................................................... 148
Chart 5.1 Federal collective agreements lodged/approved, 2008–09 and 2009–10 .... 179
Agency Resource Statement – 2009-10 ................................................................. 283
Agency Resource Statement – 2009-10 ................................................................. 284
List of Tables
Table 1.1 Key performance indicators for Program 1.1 .............................................22
Table 1.2 Effectiveness indicators for Program 1.1 ..................................................23
Table 1.3 Key performance indicators for Program 1.2 .............................................25
Table 1.4 Effectiveness indicator for Program 1.2 ....................................................26
Table 1.5 Key performance indicators for Program 1.3 .............................................29
Table 1.6 Effectiveness indicators for Program 1.3 ..................................................30
Table 1.7 Departmental outputs performance information ........................................31
Table 2.1 Key performance indicators for Program 2.1 .............................................38
Table 2.2 Effectiveness indicators for Program 2.1 ..................................................45
Table 2.3 Full-time school enrolments (government and non-government) by level of
education, Aus 2007 to 2009 ..................................................................46
Table 2.4 Full-time school enrolments in government and no-government schools,
Australia: 2007 to 2009 .........................................................................46
Table 2.5 Key performance indicators for Program 2.2 .............................................48
Table 2.6 Effectiveness indicators for Program 2.2 (Non-government) .......................50
Table 2.7 Key performance indicators for Program 2.3 .............................................51
Table 2.8 Effectiveness indicators for Program 2.3 ..................................................61
Table 2.9 Full-time school and preschool enrolments for Indigenous students .............61
Table 2.10 Key performance indicators for Program 2.4 .............................................62
Table 2.11 Key performance indicators for Program 2.5 .............................................65
Table 2.12 Key performance indicators for Program 2.6 .............................................65
Table 2.13 Effectiveness indicators for Program 2.6 ..................................................67
Table 2.14 Key performance indicators for Program 2.7 .............................................68
Table 2.15 Key performance indicators for Program 2.8 .............................................71
Table 2.16 Key performance indicators for Program 2.10 ...........................................77
Table 2.17 Key performance indicators for Program 2.11 ...........................................79
Table 2.18 Departmental outputs performance information ........................................80
Table 3.1 Key performance indicator for Program 3.1 ..............................................91
Table 3.2 Effectiveness indicators for Program 3.1 ................................................ 102
Table 3.3 Key performance indicators for Program 3.2 ........................................... 104
Table 3.4 Effectiveness indicators for Program 3.2 ................................................ 106
Table 3.5 Key performance indicators for Program 3.3 ........................................... 107
Table 3.6 Key performance indicators for Program 3.4 ........................................... 109
Table 3.7 Effectiveness indicators for Program 3.4 ................................................ 110
Table 3.8 Key performance indicators for Program 3.5 ........................................... 112
Table 3.9 Effectiveness indicators for Program 3.5 ................................................ 119
Table 3.10 Key performance indicators for Program 3.6 ........................................... 122
Table 3.11 2009-10 Endeavour Awards ................................................................. 124
Table 3.12 Effectiveness indicators for Program 3.6 ................................................ 131
Table 3.13 International students studying for higher level qualifications, 2006 to 2010
........................................................................................................ 132
Table 3.14 Departmental outputs performance information ...................................... 132
Table 3.15 Level of payment accuracy determined from random sample surveys for
student income su payments, 2009-10 .................................................. 136
Table 4.1 Key performance indicators for Program 4.1 ........................................... 140
Table 4.2 Effectiveness indicators for Program 4.1 ................................................ 143
Table 4.3 Proportion of the workforce-age population on income support payments, full
and part rate ...................................................................................... 147
Table 4.4 Average duration on full rate unemployment allowance, June 2005 to June
2010 (weeks) ..................................................................................... 149
Table 4.5 Average duration on full rate unemployment allowance, by disadvantaged
groups, June 2005 to June 2010 (weeks) ............................................... 149
Table 4.6 Key performance indicators for Program 4.2 ........................................... 150
Table 4.7 Effectiveness indicators for Program 4.2 ................................................ 151
Table 4.8 Key performance indicators for Program 4.3 ........................................... 154
Table 4.9 Effectiveness indicators for Program 4.3 ................................................ 156
Table 4.10 Effectiveness indicators for Program 4.4 ................................................ 162
Table 4.11 Level of payment accuracy determined from random sample surveys for the
major working age income support payments, 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010
........................................................................................................ 163
Table 4.12 Departmental outputs performance information ...................................... 165
Table 5.1 Effectiveness indicators for Outcome 5 .................................................. 175
Table 5.2 Industrial disputation, 1985-86 to 2009-10 ............................................ 177
Table 5.3 Departmental outputs performance information ...................................... 186
Table P3.1 Ongoing and non-ongoing full-time and part-time employees self-identifying
as Indigenous Australians, at 30 June 2010 ............................................ 194
Table P3.2 Employees, by classification and gender, 30 June 2010 (2009) ................. 196
Table P3.3 Employees, by employment status and gender, 30 June 2010 (2009) ........ 197
Table 3.4 Employees, by location and gender, 30 June 2010 (2009) ........................ 197
Table P3.5 Separation statistics, by classification, 30 June 2010 ............................... 198
Table P3.6 Employment agreement statistics, 30 June 2010 .................................... 199
Table P3.7 Salary ranges, 30 June 2010 ................................................................ 199
Table P3.8 Reported occupational health and safety incidents, by type, 2009-10 ........ 201
Table P3.9 Parliamentary workflow 2009-10 .......................................................... 204
Table P3.10 Appearances before, and submissions to, parliamentary committee inquiries
........................................................................................................ 215
Table A2.1 Sustainability measures included in building design and construction by
projects funded under the Building the Education Revolution program ....... 231
Table A3.1 Freedom of information applications for access to departmental information,
2009-10 ............................................................................................ 263
Table A6.1 Advertising agencies ........................................................................... 270
Table A6.2 Market research and polling organisations .............................................. 270
Table A6.3 Media advertising organisations ............................................................ 271
Table A6.4 Direct mail organisations ..................................................................... 271
Table A7.1 Consultancy contracts let in 2009-10 ..................................................... 273
Clockwise from top left:
1.
The South Australian DEEWR office celebrated Harmony Day in March 2010 with a
morning tea. Pictured is Judith Leeson in her ‘traditional’ Aussie fly-proof hat.
2.
In June 2010 the Hon Julia Gillard MP, former Minister for Education attended a
Building the Education Revolution recognition ceremony at the Kingsway Christian
College and Independent School in Western Australia. At the ceremony the school
acknowledged the value of their new facilities which include a library, a music room
and additional classrooms.
3.
In September 2009, representatives from DEEWR’s Indigenous Development
Programs (past and present), Secretary Lisa Paul and Group Manager, People Group
Ben Johnson attended an afternoon tea at Parliament House, hosted by Senator the
Hon Mark Arbib, Minister for Employment Participation. Mr Arbib congratulated the
participants on their achievements and reinforced the importance of DEEWR’s
Indigenous recruitment initiatives.
4.
DEEWR has been involved in implementing the Pacific Seasonal Worker Pilot
Scheme, which gives people in participating countries the opportunity to work in the
Australian horticulture industry in regional areas where there is demonstrated
unmet demand. In October 2009 a farewell ceremony was held in Griffith for these
workers prior to their return home to Vanuatu.
5.
In July 2009 the Hon Julia Gillard MP, former Minister for Employment and
Workplace Relations and acting Prime Minister, was presented with the interim Keep
Australia Working report by Senator the Hon Mark Arbib, Minister for Employment
Participation, and the Hon Jason Clare MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Employment.
6.
In December 2009, Senator the Hon Ursula Stephens, Parliamentary Secretary for
Social Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector, launched the Golden Gurus program at
the International Volunteers Day Awards held on the Gold Coast. Senator Stephens
is pictured here with Ernie Peralta, who originally presented the idea at the Australia
2020 Summit.
7.
In March 2010, new Disability Employment Services arrangements commenced.
Pictured here are Noel Hiffernan of Break Thru, Ross Lewis, CEO Break Thru,
Senator the Hon Mark Arbib, Minister for Employment Participation, Lucy Macali,
CEO ACE National and Donna Faulkner, Chairman ACE National.
Annual Report 2009-10
Part 1 - Overview
The Secretary’s overview
Welcome to the DEEWR Annual Report for 2009–10, a year that saw a redoubling of our
efforts to help Australians recover from a challenging economic downturn.
Our support for the government’s response to the global recession has been a great
achievement. It has helped many Australians, especially the most vulnerable, recover
from the impact of the downturn and participate in the nation’s growing economy and
prosperity. Through this work we have contributed immensely to Australia’s productivity
and economic growth.
I am also very proud of our achievements in expanding education and employment
opportunities for disadvantaged Australians.
This work is now helping many young people, retrenched workers, people in
disadvantaged regions, Indigenous Australians and people with disability to achieve their
potential by studying, training or working.
We saw the consolidation of the Fair Work Act—its architecture, we helped the
government deliver many major microeconomic reforms in early childhood, schools,
higher education, employment and workplace relations. We achieved life-changing
assistance to many Australians.
We have also made significant changes to our organisational structure. I am immensely
grateful to all our staff for their great dedication and flexibility in ensuring a smooth
transition. As a result of the changes, the department is better placed to develop policies
and programs that recognise the important connections between early childhood
education, primary and secondary schooling, tertiary education and work.
Responding to the economic downturn and preparing for recovery
The Australian labour market has been more resilient than expected following the recent
global recession. In responding to its impact, DEEWR implemented programs to address
rising unemployment and to raise skills in anticipation of the opportunities that a
recovery would bring. We also worked closely with other agencies to ensure that the
government’s stimulus measures were effective and well coordinated.
While helping to address the immediate needs of Australians, we have also been looking
to the future by focusing on the longer term challenges facing Australia: the ageing of
our population, international competition and structural economic changes that are
creating a growing demand for skilled workers, particularly in the services and trades,
with relatively fewer jobs for unskilled workers.
DEEWR is on track to answer these challenges through implementation of the
government’s reform agenda. Measuring the Impact of the Productivity Agenda, an
independent report DEEWR commissioned during the year, has highlighted the potential
long-term benefits of the national productivity agenda. The report predicts that reforms
to early childhood, secondary and tertiary education and training and to employment and
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Annual Report 2009-10
workplace relations could increase the level of Australia’s GDP by around $100 billion
annually, on average, over the period 2010 to 2040. The reforms could also lead to more
jobs—on average an extra 526 000 each year to 2040.
Lifting skills across the population
Continuing to skill Australia for the future
Over the past year, DEEWR continued to implement government reforms to increase the
number of training places and support the take-up of apprenticeships, which were hit
particularly hard by the global recession. We have been supporting the government’s
commitment to provide 711 000 training places over five years through the Productivity
Places Program and other measures. The $155 million Securing Australian
Apprenticeships initiative enabled more than 48 000 apprentices to continue their
apprenticeship training. In addition, the $80 million Apprentice Kickstart package helped
24 400 young Australians into apprenticeships by offering bonuses to employers who
took on an apprentice aged up to 19 years in a traditional trade.
The Skills for Sustainable Growth package
Building on the success of these earlier measures, we supported the development of the
$660 million Skills for Sustainable Growth package, a comprehensive set of skills policies
announced in the 2010–11 Budget. Some $238 million will be invested in reforms to
create a world-class vocational education and training (VET) system that responds more
effectively to the skills needs of employers, offers higher quality training and is more
accessible to all Australians, and can include a guaranteed training place for those aged
15–24 years.
A $200 million Critical Skills Investment Fund is being set up to tackle immediate skills
shortages in the mining, construction, renewable energy and infrastructure sectors. The
package also addresses the literacy and numeracy deficits that affect around 4.5 million
working age Australians through a $119 million Foundation Skills initiative. This will help
140 000 working age people learn the basic skills needed to get a job or undertake more
advanced training.
A further $100 million is going towards modernising apprenticeships including extending
the Apprentice Kickstart program. This is expected to help 22 500 more young people
secure apprenticeships. Implementing these measures will be a major part of our work in
2010–11.
Increasing the skills of young people
DEEWR recognises the need to support young Australians, a group particularly vulnerable
to economic downturns. We are acutely aware that youth unemployment accounted for
some 70 per cent of the decline in employment in Australia during the global recession.
We have been working to ensure that our programs and services address their particular
needs as they make the important transition from childhood to adulthood and from
education to employment.
The $77 million National Green Jobs Corps launched in January 2010 is one such
program. It is helping young people aged 17–24 years looking to work in the green and
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Annual Report 2009-10
climate change industries to participate in environmental training programs. This will
prepare them for work in relevant occupations of their choice.
The government has also committed to providing extra support to young people who
choose to undertake post-school education. During the year, DEEWR staff worked hard in
developing the program and legislative changes to Youth Allowance. The changes will
benefit more than 100 000 students, particularly those living in regional and remote
areas. We are also supporting the rollout of income-contingent loans (VET FEE-HELP) to
students studying for higher level VET qualifications.
Increasing job opportunities and social inclusion
Supporting jobs growth
In 2009–10, DEEWR continued to support jobs through the government’s Building the
Education Revolution (BER) stimulus measure. The BER is stimulating economic activity
by supporting 24 000 projects in communities throughout Australia. It has cushioned the
non-residential construction sector from a significant downturn. It is creating new and
improved school infrastructure that has been welcomed by many school communities.
The Auditor-General examined the implementation of the BER and found that there were
‘positive early indicators that the program is making progress toward achieving its
intended outcomes’. Implementing such a large program in the timeframe needed to
provide economic stimulus was challenging, and during the year concerns were raised
about whether the program was achieving value for money. In response to those
concerns, the government established the BER Implementation Taskforce, chaired by
business leader Mr Brad Orgill, in May 2010. The taskforce received complaints from 2.7
per cent of schools involved in the BER. In its interim report, which was released shortly
after the annual reporting period in August 2010, the taskforce found that generally, BER
is delivering quality infrastructure within the timeframe constraints set. The taskforce
made an interim finding that delivering the Primary Schools for the 21st Century
component of BER may have added a cost premium of 5–6 per cent compared to pre-BER
costs. The taskforce’s work continues in 2010–11 and implementing its recommendations
will be a priority for the year ahead.
Improved employment services—Job Services Australia
Job Services Australia, the government’s new employment services, started on 1 July
2009. The work by DEEWR staff in implementing major improvements to employment
services through Job Services Australia is already paying off. The simplified and demanddriven employment services helped 333 000 job seekers find a job, with providers
developing 1.3 million employment pathway plans, helping 170 000 job seekers into
training and finding work experience places for 300 000 people. These achievements
have been made possible by Job Services Australia’s personalised approach and focus on
the employment, training and recruitment needs of job seekers and employers and are a
testament to the crucial support provided by DEEWR staff across Australia to our Job
Services Australia providers.
Employment services supporting disadvantaged job seekers
We have also made progress in helping close the employment gap for Indigenous
Australians through the new Indigenous Employment Program. After extensive public
3
Annual Report 2009-10
consultation, the program began operating in July 2009, providing personalised
assistance to individuals, communities and organisations. By the end of its first year, it
had placed almost 12 000 Indigenous Australians in employment and about 14 000 in
training and other activities. In addition, Job Services Australia placed more than 38 000
Indigenous job seekers.
Regions disproportionately affected by the impact of the global recession received our
support through the Keep Australia Working strategy. The government appointed 21
Local Employment Coordinators to work with the community and business in labour
markets identified by the department as the most disadvantaged. The coordinators have
helped retrenched workers secure alternative employment and are working with industry,
training providers and service providers to develop training programs tailored to local
industry needs. We have worked with the coordinators and Centrelink to support jobs
expos attended by over 92 000 people in these priority employment areas. Through the
expos, 8000 job seekers have found employment.
The new Disability Employment Services was introduced in March 2010. All job seekers
with disability can now access individually tailored employment services.
Improved support for parents and young children
Paid parental leave
During the year, DEEWR staff worked closely with other agencies, in particular in
supporting the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous
Affairs, to develop arrangements for the government’s paid parental leave scheme. As a
result of this work, from 1 January 2011, all Australian parents of a newborn child will be
eligible for 18 weeks of parental leave at the national minimum wage. The scheme should
boost productivity through increased workforce participation by women and improved
early childhood development outcomes. It should also help families achieve a better
work/life balance.
Quality and affordability of early childhood education and care
Child care is critical to helping young families achieve a better work/life balance and
forms part of the government’s reform agenda that DEEWR has been helping to
implement. Independent modelling undertaken for the department has estimated that the
government’s reform to the Child Care Rebate could boost the level of GDP by around
$3.5 billion annually, on average, over the period 2010 to 2040.
DEEWR has been playing a key role in the collaborative effort to implement COAG’s
Investing in the Early Years: A National Early Childhood Development Strategy. The
2010–11 Budget provided $273.7 million for improving the quality of early childhood
education and care. This will support the new National Quality Framework to improve
staff-to-child ratios and more qualified staff to ensure that children have better
opportunities to learn and develop in child care and preschool. There will also be
significant support to boost infrastructure and staff qualifications in 142 rural and remote
early childhood centres.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Building better schools and universities
Improving school education through the Education Revolution, My School and
other reforms
Implementation of the Education Revolution continued, including through the BER as
previously mentioned. We are also on track to achieve the Digital Education Revolution
objective of ensuring that every student in Years 9–12 has a computer, and more than
300 000 computers have already been delivered to schools across Australia. In addition,
work to deliver Trade Training Centres has continued: 68 centres are scheduled to be
completed by the start of the next school year. They will benefit some 173 schools.
The department has been working closely with the states and territories to provide extra
assistance to schools under the COAG Smarter Schools National Partnerships. This
assistance aims to address disadvantage in low socioeconomic status school
communities, improve teacher quality, engage students more effectively in learning and
strengthen relationships between schools, parents and the local community.
One of our major achievements in the schools sphere was the release of the
government’s My School website in January 2010, marking a new era of transparency in
Australian schools. Parents are now able to access information about the performance of
schools across the country.
Importantly, the department has also led the development of the Ministerial Council for
Education, Early Childhood Development and Youth Affairs’ Indigenous Education Action
Plan. This plan outlines how all education sectors will work together to achieve the
Closing the Gap targets for improved education outcomes for young Indigenous
Australians.
The draft Kindergarten to Year 10 curriculum for English, mathematics, science and
history was released for public consultation in March 2010, another great achievement.
The department worked with the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting
Authority, which is overseeing the curriculum’s development. The final curriculum is
expected to be released in late 2010.
In April 2010, the former Minister for Education, the Hon Julia Gillard MP, announced a
review of school funding arrangements, to report in 2011. A secretariat for the review
has been set up in the department to support this work.
Boosting participation, fairness and quality in Australian universities
The department has been active in implementing landmark reforms to higher education
following the government’s response to the recommendations of the Bradley Review of
Higher Education in the 2009–10 Budget. We are helping to increase the number of
Australians with higher education qualifications through the development of a new
student-centred funding model, a low socioeconomic loading to universities and improved
income support arrangements for students.
The department assessed more than 190 applications to the Education Investment Fund.
This work culminated in the government announcing funding totalling $550 million for 19
major projects to support world-leading, strategically focused infrastructure investments
to transform Australian higher education, vocational education and research sectors.
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Annual Report 2009-10
The department has also implemented a number of key government reforms to increase
the focus on quality and accountability in higher education. We have undertaken early
work to establish the new Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency. This
independent body will regulate university and non university higher education providers
and monitor quality and standards.
Creating a fairer workplace
Advancing Forward with Fairness
DEEWR has made significant progress implementing the government’s Forward with
Fairness reforms. As part of these reforms, Fair Work Australia, a new industrial relations
tribunal, became fully operational in July 2009.
A new national workplace relations system for the private sector started in January 2010.
This means all private sector employees and employers now have access to the same
workplace laws, tribunals, minimum conditions, rights and entitlements. Modelling by
Access Economics earlier this year showed that moving to a single national system is
expected to save the Australian economy around $4.8 billion over 10 years.
A national approach to occupational health and safety
Progress has also been made with harmonising occupational health and safety (OHS)
laws across the country. Safe Work Australia, a new statutory authority with
responsibility for improving OHS in Australia, began operating in November 2009. All
Australian governments have formally committed to adopting uniform OHS laws, as well
as consistent compliance and enforcement regimes, by the end of 2011. Safe Work
Australia is developing model regulations and priority codes of practice.
Closing the gap on Indigenous disadvantage
In the past year, DEEWR continued to work tirelessly on Indigenous policy.
A new three-year Learn Earn Legend! partnership between the department and the
National Rugby League began with the inaugural Rugby League All Stars Match in
February 2010. The partnership provides young Indigenous people with encouragement
and opportunities to stay in school, go on to post-school education and get a job.
DEEWR facilitated ‘Indigenous Employment, Everyone’s Business’, a business leaders’
forum that brought together Indigenous businesses across Australia and representatives
from major Australian organisations. The forum has strengthened support for the Closing
the Gap agenda in the Australian business community and led to the establishment of the
Indigenous Employment and Enterprise Action Group.
DEEWR worked with the Department of Finance and Deregulation to introduce the
enhanced Indigenous Opportunities Policy, which affects all Australian Government
procurement activities. From July 2010, organisations that secure a large government
tender for a project in an area with a significant Indigenous population will have to train
and employ local Indigenous people and use Indigenous suppliers. This should increase
employment, training and business opportunities for Indigenous people across the
country.
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Annual Report 2009-10
The Indigenous Economic Development Strategy, together with a comprehensive 2010–
2012 action plan to drive improved outcomes for Indigenous employment and economic
development, will be finalised once public consultations have ended in November 2010.
I am immensely proud of the department’s work in supporting education and
employment outcomes for Indigenous Australians, and look forward to an ongoing focus
on opportunities for further improvements in all our work.
Achievements within DEEWR
Increasing workplace diversity
Our achievements in the Indigenous realm extend to the internal functioning of the
department. We have made progress in implementing our Reconciliation Action Plan
(RAP). We celebrated the first anniversary of the RAP on 2 June 2010, providing all
DEEWR staff the opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the past year, among
them:
●
exceeding the RAP target to have 330 Indigenous people employed at DEEWR (at 30
June 2010, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees represented 5.65 per
cent of all DEEWR staff, which is more than double the Australian Government
target of 2.7 per cent for the Australian Public Service)
●
meeting the targets set out in the Mura Kaimel – Yarrangi Implementation Plan to
increase recruitment, equity and development opportunities for Indigenous people at
the department
●
providing cultural awareness training for nearly 600 DEEWR staff.
Creating a greener department
In 2009–10, DEEWR continued to pursue environment-friendly policies and practices,
with several notable achievements. Our new building on Marcus Clarke Street in Canberra
is a standout example. This year the Green Building Council of Australia gave it a 6 Green
Star rating—the highest rating possible. Across all our buildings, we reduced paper use
by about 25 per cent from 2008–09 to 2009–10, and the use of recycled paper increased
by 20 per cent. We also reduced energy and water use in line with our new
environmental management policy created in March 2010. I am very optimistic about the
considerable environmental impact these actions will have.
Looking to the future
In 2010–11 and beyond, DEEWR will continue to address the challenges posed by the
economic recovery, population ageing and structural changes in the economy. We
recognise the imperative to help Australia build a highly skilled workforce with the
capacity to respond quickly to the changing needs of industries and ensure the long-term
competitiveness and sustainability of Australia’s economy.
We will also continue to work towards lifting participation rates so more Australians will
be able to enter and remain in the workforce. This is important if we are to help increase
economic growth in an increasingly ageing population and reduce disadvantage.
According to Skills Australia, we will need to lift our participation rate to 69 per cent over
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Annual Report 2009-10
the next 15 years to avoid future skills and labour shortages and mitigate the impacts of
an ageing population. This means we need to focus now on targeting those groups less
likely to have a job, including women, young people, Indigenous Australians and people
living in low socioeconomic areas.
As the Australian economy continues to recover, our work will remain pivotal to the
development and wellbeing of all Australians—from early childhood to adulthood.
The year ahead is set to be another exciting one for DEEWR and, with our record of
achievements of the past 12 months, I am confident we are well placed to continue to
create a productive and inclusive society for all Australians.
Lisa Paul
Secretary
Departmental overview
This section provides an overview of the Department of Education, Employment and
Workplace Relations (DEEWR). It covers the department’s role in delivering the
government’s agenda, the department’s Executive, adjustments to the department’s
performance reporting structure and the role of the portfolio.
The department has a key role in the government’s efforts to improve Australia’s
productivity and enhance the economic and social wellbeing of all Australians.
The department continues to be the lead government agency providing national
leadership in education and workplace training, transition to work, and conditions and
values in the workplace. Its responsibilities cover government priorities for early
childhood development, quality education outcomes, a skilled workforce with greater
participation, successful workplaces and an inclusive society.
The quality of education and training across the life cycle, including early childhood,
schooling, vocational education and training and higher education, contributes to the
development of a highly skilled and world-class workforce and to an engaged and
prosperous population. Effective arrangements to assist unemployed people into jobs and
meet skills needs, together with a fair and balanced workplace relations system, ensure
that the economy operates to meet the needs of employees, industry and Australia as a
nation.
Flexible and cooperative working arrangements can be rapidly put in place to effectively
address crosscutting issues and government priorities as they arise. During the reporting
year, the department played a significant part in the government’s response to the global
recession. It rapidly implemented programs to address rising unemployment and to skill
people in anticipation of the opportunities presented by economic recovery. In addition, it
was involved in complex coordination processes with a range of other departments, to
ensure maximum effectiveness of government stimulus measures.
DEEWR now has a significant and continuing role in the government’s actions to
consolidate recovery and ensure long-term growth and prosperity.
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Annual Report 2009-10
DEEWR Executive and departmental structure
The department is structured to deliver its business through the Executive and its groups.
The role of each member of the Executive is outlined below. The Executive and
departmental structure are shown in Chart P1.1.
Lisa Paul—Secretary
Lisa Paul, PSM has been Secretary of the Australian Government Department of
Education, Employment and Workplace Relations since 2007. The portfolio focuses on
productivity and is central to Australia’s economic growth through people’s productivity—
their education, skills and labour force contributions. The department is organised by the
life cycle: early childhood, schooling, young people’s transitions from school, vocational
education, higher education, employment and workplace relations. DEEWR has a key
focus on fairness throughout life, whether it is social inclusion measures in local
communities or fairness in the workplace.
DEEWR administers approximately $44.5 billion annually and has about 6000 staff in over
54 locations in Australia and 14 locations overseas.
Prior to this role, Lisa was Secretary of the Department of Education, Science and
Training from 2004 to 2007.
She has more than 20 years public sector experience, including three Deputy CEO roles,
which were in the Department of Education, Science and Training; the Department of
Family and Community Services; and the Health Insurance Commission. She has held
senior positions in education, welfare, community services, health and housing, in state
and Commonwealth governments and in central and line agencies.
Lisa has also sat on the boards for the Australian Research Council and the
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation as well as on the boards
for the Higher Education Endowment Fund and the Education Investment Fund.
Lisa has led some important whole of government work. For example, in 2002 she was
asked to lead the Australian Government’s domestic response to the Bali bombings, for
which she was awarded a Public Service Medal.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Robert Griew—Associate Secretary
As Associate Secretary, Robert Griew has a horizontal policy role in the Executive. The
role is designed to bring together all parts of the department to develop a policy agenda
which touches all parts of the portfolio. In particular, Robert has a focus on strategic
policy and the department’s Indigenous strategy.
Robert joined DEEWR in April 2009 from the Victorian Department of Education and Early
Childhood Development. He was Secretary of the Northern Territory Department of
Health and Community Services from 2003 to 2007 and was the CEO of the AIDS Council
of NSW from 1998 to 2001.
Robert has had a 25-year career delivering health and community service policy and
programs at the Commonwealth level, as well as in a number of state and territory
jurisdictions. He has run public health, Indigenous, ageing and early childhood education
programs.
Interspersed with his public sector career, Robert has worked as a consultant advising on
organisational development and public health. He currently holds the position of conjoint
Associate Professor in the School of Public Health and Community Medicine at the
University of NSW.
Tony Cook—Deputy Secretary
Tony Cook is the Deputy Secretary and Director of the Office of Early Childhood
Education and Child Care (OECECC), a position he is seconded to until 10 September
2010. OECECC is responsible for delivering the Australian Government’s key
commitments on early childhood education and child care and guiding major policy
reforms at a national level.
Tony’s substantive position is Deputy Secretary of the Office for Children and Portfolio
Coordination with the Victorian Department of Education and Early Childhood
Development (DEECD), a role which includes responsibilities for early childhood
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Annual Report 2009-10
development and services and child and adolescent health. Within this role, Tony is also
responsible for a range of corporate services such as DEECD’s overall strategic and
corporate policy and planning agenda and support to ministers in relation to external and
internal communications, data and evaluation, legal services, governance and risk
management.
Within his substantive position, Tony chairs the Ministerial Council for Education, Early
Childhood Development and Youth Affairs Early Childhood Development Working Group,
which provides advice to ministers on early childhood development issues. Tony is also a
member of the Council of Australian Governments Early Childhood Development Steering
Committee.
Tony is a registered primary school teacher with a major in early childhood education and
has been a deputy principal and taught in schools and preschools in Queensland and the
United Kingdom.
Michele Bruniges—Deputy Secretary
Michele Bruniges joined the department in October 2008 as Deputy Secretary for the
Office of Early Childhood Education and Child Care. She moved to her current position as
Deputy Secretary, Schools, in April 2009 to focus on delivering the government’s
commitments for school education.
From 2005 to 2008 Michele was Chief Executive of the ACT Department of Education and
Training. Prior to this she held several senior positions within the New South Wales
Department of Education and Training in areas of curriculum, assessment and reporting
and strategic information and planning.
Michele has a Doctorate of Philosophy in Educational Measurement, a Masters Degree in
Education from the University of New South Wales, a Graduate Diploma in Educational
Studies and a Diploma in Teaching from Goulburn College of Advanced Education.
She is the recipient of numerous professional awards, including a Churchill Fellowship to
study student achievement in education in the United States and the Netherlands and an
Exceptional Service Award from the Professional Teachers Council NSW for promoting
teacher professionalism. She is a Fellow of the Australian College of Educators.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Michael Manthorpe—Deputy Secretary
Michael Manthorpe is temporarily responsible for the Building the Education Revolution
(BER) cluster and will continue his role as the Director of the OECECC. The BER cluster is
responsible for providing economic stimulus through the rapid construction and
refurbishment of school infrastructure. While leading the work of the OECECC, for the
period April 2009 to 2010, Michael was responsible for advancing the government’s
agenda for high-quality, accessible and sustainable early learning and care. Prior to his
promotion to Deputy Secretary, he led a small task force within the department which
managed the government’s response to the insolvency of ABC Learning, for which he was
awarded the Public Service Medal in 2010.
Michael has served for 21 years in the department’s workplace relations, employment,
workforce participation, strategic policy, and in early childhood education and child care
areas.
Kathryn Campbell—Deputy Secretary
Kathryn Campbell joined the department in May 2010 as the Deputy Secretary, Tertiary,
Youth and International, focusing on implementing the government’s skills package and
tertiary sector regulatory reform. Previously Kathryn spent several years as Deputy
Secretary in the Department of Finance and Deregulation.
Kathryn holds a Master of Business Administration, a Master of Information Science, and
a Bachelor of Applied Science (Applied Mathematics). She undertook the Advanced
Management Program at Harvard Business School in 2008.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Sandra Parker—Deputy Secretary
Sandra Parker was promoted to the role of Deputy Secretary, Employment in early 2010
and is responsible for the delivery of effective and efficient employment services.
Sandra began her public service career in the ACT education and training sector in 1994
and moved to the Commonwealth in 1998. During that period, she spent a year working
as a senior project officer with the Australian National Training Authority and a further
year with an industry training council.
Since joining the Australian Government, she has held various policy and program
positions in vocational education and training, social policy and workplace relations.
Sandra was head of the Office of the Australian Safety and Compensation Council from
2005 to 2008.
John Kovacic—Deputy Secretary
John Kovacic leads the department’s Workplace Relations cluster, which is responsible for
providing policy and legal advice on workplace relations, occupational health and safety
and workers compensation matters; implementing workplace relations reforms in the
public and private sectors; administering the employee entitlements safety net scheme
known as the General Employee Entitlements and Redundancy Scheme (GEERS);
intervening in significant tribunal and court cases and managing Australia’s relationship
with the International Labour Organization.
John commenced his public service career in 1978 as a graduate clerk with the
Department of Productivity. He joined the then Department of Industrial Relations in
1981 and has continued to work in various iterations of that department. He has worked
in a range of business and corporate areas, both in a national and state office context.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Ewen McDonald—Deputy Secretary
Ewen McDonald is the Deputy Secretary for the Corporate and Network cluster. The
cluster includes the Finance, People, Parliamentary and Communications, Legal,
Investigations and Procurement, IT Services and Applications, and State Delivery and
Network groups. Before taking on this role, Ewen was involved in the establishment of
DEEWR and policy and program issues in schools.
Ewen began his career in the Victorian Public Service in 1978 where he worked in a
number of agencies before joining the Australian Public Service in 1993. Ewen has
worked on policy, program and corporate issues.
The structure shown in Chart P1.1 reflects the major areas of activity for the department.
Its five outcomes provide a broad focus for policy advice and implementation of
government programs in partnership with states and territories, non-government
authorities, service providers and industry.
14
Annual Report 2009-10
Chart P1.1 Executive and departmental structure at 30 June 2010
Portfolio overview
At 30 June 2010, the Education, Employment and Workplace Relations portfolio consisted
of the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations and the following
agencies:
●
Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority
●
Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership
●
Australian Learning and Teaching Council
15
Annual Report 2009-10
●
Comcare
●
Fair Work Australia
●
Fair Work Ombudsman
●
Office of the Australian Building and Construction Commissioner
●
Safe Work Australia.
Each agency produces its own annual report.
Chart P1.2 outlines the portfolio, outcomes and program structures and the list of
agencies.
16
Annual Report 2009-10
Chart P1.2 Portfolio ministers, outcomes and programs structures, and agencies
at 30 June 2010
17
Annual Report 2009-10
Part 2 – Report on performance
Outcome 1
Improved access to quality services that support early childhood learning and
care for children through a national quality framework, agreed national
standards, investment in infrastructure, and support for parents, carers,
services and the workforce
The Australian Government’s agenda for early childhood education and child care focuses
on providing Australian families with high-quality, accessible and affordable integrated
early childhood education and child care. Recent measures to achieve this aim include
increasing the Child Care Rebate (CCR) from 30 per cent to 50 per cent, stabilising the
child care market following the collapse of ABC Learning, improving the information
available to support parents in their child care choices on the www.mychild.gov.au
website and increasing the supply of integrated early learning and care through the
Children and Family Centre and the Early Learning and Care Centre initiatives.
A high-quality, integrated early childhood education and child care sector that produces
good outcomes for children is essential for a number of reasons. Research shows that the
brain grows rapidly and is most receptive during early childhood. Children’s ability to
participate fully in society as adults will be shaped in large part by their experiences in
childhood. The early years of a child’s life have a profound impact on their future health,
development, learning and wellbeing. Children who have a good start in life are also
more likely to develop the skills that will better equip Australia to be a competitive force
in a global society.
More and more families rely on early childhood services to support their workforce
participation and inform the choices they make about how to balance their work and
family responsibilities.
The Australian Government—in partnership with the states and territories through
COAG— is implementing a range of initiatives to achieve positive early childhood
development and education outcomes for all Australian children. All jurisdictions have
committed to the provision of high-quality, accessible and affordable services for children
and their families.
On 7 December 2009, COAG agreed to a number of improvements to early childhood
education and care through the introduction of a National Quality Framework (NQF), to
cover long day care, family day care, outside school hours care and preschool services.
Since the COAG announcement, all jurisdictions have been working together to develop
the arrangements for transition to the new framework. The department has engaged in
wide-ranging stakeholder consultation to assist services with the transition to the new
national system. A series of public information forums were conducted in April and May
2010 in 12 locations across Australia. The Stakeholder Reference Group and the Critical
Friends Group were also established to act as key consultation forums during the
transition to, and implementation of, the NQF.
The new jointly governed unified framework will apply from 1 January 2012. The
framework includes:
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
a new national quality standard
●
a quality ratings system
●
a streamlined regulatory system
●
a new national authority, the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality
Authority, to guide implementation and management of the quality system from 1
January 2012.
The new national legislation is expected to come into effect on 1 January 2012, with
gradual implementation of improved ratios and staff qualifications over subsequent years.
Outcome 1 key priorities
The key priorities for 2009–10 were to:
●
develop implementation and transition strategies to give effect to the National
Partnership Agreement on the National Quality Agenda for Early Childhood Education
and Care
●
continue to progress implementation of the 38 Early Learning and Care Centres
●
continue to develop policy and strategy related to the National Early Childhood
Development Strategy through the development of advice on key reform areas for
COAG consideration, in collaboration with states and territories
●
progress the government’s commitment that by 2013 all children in the year before
they attend formal schooling will have access to a quality early childhood education
program, by working in partnership with state and territory governments as agreed
to in COAG’s National Partnership Agreement on Early Childhood Education
●
complete the first Australian Early Development Index (AEDI) national data
collection and the subsequent dissemination of AEDI data through the AEDI National
Report 2009, online community maps and community profiles
●
continue to monitor and support state and territory governments’ progress in
establishing Children and Family Centres under the revised National Partnership
Agreement on Indigenous Early Childhood Development
●
begin to implement the budget measure to assist Budget Based Funded early
childhood services to move towards meeting the new National Quality Standards
agreed by COAG
●
help disadvantaged children and families to access parenting, early learning and
child care programs by, for example, implementing the Home Interaction Program
for Parents and Youngsters and developing the Indigenous Universal Access
Strategy to support the implementation of the National Partnership Agreement on
Early Childhood Education
●
improve the information available for parents to support their child care choices
through further development of the www.mychild.gov.au website.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Outcome 1 key achievements
The key achievements for 2009–10 were:
●
COAG endorsed the first National Early Childhood Development Strategy—Investing
in the Early Years—on 2 July 2009. This was a collaborative initiative involving the
Australian Government and state and territory governments.
●
COAG endorsed the NQF for early childhood education and care and school age care.
●
Through appropriate multilateral arrangements and sector consultations, key
materials were developed to support the implementation of the NQF for early
childhood education and care and school age care. This included drafting instructions
for the nationally applied legislation and its associated regulations, draft assessment
and ratings process materials and related communications activities to inform
families and the sector of the reforms.
●
Plans were made for establishing the Australian Children’s Education and Care
Quality Authority and for winding down the National Childcare Accreditation Council.
●
More than 600 ABC Learning Centres were successfully transitioned to GoodStart.
●
Arrangements for 36 of the 38 ELCCs were announced—at 30 June 2010, six centres
were operational, 14 were under construction and the remainder were at various
stages of the pre-construction planning process.
●
Annual reports for the 2009 calendar year were received from state and territory
governments on progress towards the goal of universal access to early childhood
education by 2013. While it is still very early in the life of the National Partnership,
there was encouraging progress against agreed benchmarks and deliverables.
●
In July 2009, COAG endorsed a revised National Agreement on Indigenous Early
Childhood Development, under which Children and Family Centres will be
established across Australia by June 2014 to deliver integrated services that offer
early learning, child care and family support programs. At 30 June 2010 the
locations for 38 centres were agreed.
●
The Ministerial Council for Education, Early Childhood Development and Youth Affairs
developed and endorsed the National Information Agreement on Early Childhood
Education and Care to facilitate and improve the collection, sharing and reporting of
early childhood education and care information.
●
Indigenous Remote Service Delivery Traineeships in Indigenous Budget Based
Funded services in remote service delivery locations and in Children and Family
Centre locations in the Northern Territory, Queensland, Western Australia and South
Australia were implemented.
●
The first national AEDI data collection was completed in July 2009. In December
2009, the AEDI National Report 2009, A Snapshot of Early Childhood Development
in Australia, was released, along with online community maps. In May 2010,
detailed community profiles were publicly released. The 2010 AEDI follow-up data
collection in small communities commenced in May 2010.
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
Thirteen new centres for the Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters
were established. Funding continued for 22 existing centres across Australia.
●
Improvements were made to the www.mychild.gov.au website to include
information on around 14 000 approved child care services about vacancies, fees,
service providers and locations. The website now also provides access to a child care
estimator, which allows families to estimate their possible entitlement to
government-provided child care subsidies.
National Early Childhood Development Strategy
The department was a key player in the development of a landmark policy document, the
National Early Childhood Development Strategy—Investing in Early Years. The strategy
was endorsed by COAG on 2 July 2009. For the first time, all Australian jurisdictions
agreed a national vision to work towards a more effective and better coordinated national
early childhood development system to support the diverse needs of children and their
families.
The vision of the strategy is that all children have the best start in life to create a better
future for themselves and for the nation. It identifies the early childhood development
outcomes that all governments are seeking to achieve for children by 2020, including
existing commitments, areas for immediate action and future areas for reform.
Commonwealth, state and territory governments are working together to develop further
advice for COAG on the implementation of the strategy.
Program 1.1 Support for the Child Care System
Program objective
To improve access to quality services that support early childhood education and care
through the provision of support for child care services. The program helps families to
participate in the social and economic life of the community as it:
●
promotes and supports quality child care
●
assists services to improve access and inclusion for children and families with special
and/or additional needs
●
provides professional support to build the capacity of the child care sector
●
supports the sustainability of child care for all Australian children and families,
including in areas and/or under circumstances where services would not otherwise
be available
●
develops, maintains and disseminates information to assist families to make
informed decisions about child care and the related support programs and services
provided or funded by the government.
The AEDI, which measures the health and development of children in a geographical
area, is funded under the program and is being rolled out nationally to determine how
children in a community are developing compared with other children around Australia. It
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Annual Report 2009-10
provides a ‘snapshot’ of all children in a community and does not report individual
children’s performance. This means that governments and community organisations will
be able to target communities that need extra help to improve the wellbeing and school
readiness of children.
Table 1.1
Key performance indicators for Program 1.1
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
1200a
1738
Child Care Services Support
Number of child care services receiving Sustainability
Assistance
Number of child care services receiving Establishment 250
Assistance
206
Jobs Education and Training (JET) Child Care Fee Assistance
Number of children in child care
40 000
42 550
Number of parents assisted
25 000
27 930
a This estimate was published in the 2009–10 Portfolio Additional Estimates Statements
This table shows the performance indicators for the child care system support program. It
shows that there were 1738 child care services receiving sustainability assistance and
206 receiving establishment assistance. 27,930 parents received assistance through the
Jobs Education and Training (JET) child-care, fee-assistance program.
Child Care Services Support
Sustainability Assistance is aimed at improving and supporting access to child care
services for families in areas where the provision of child care may not otherwise be
financially viable. Over 2009–10, 1738 services received Sustainability Assistance.
Establishment Assistance was paid to 206 eligible child care services that began
operating in the reporting period.
Trend analysis
The number of services receiving Sustainability Assistance increased from 1115 in 2008–
09 to 1738 in 2009–10. This reflects that Sustainability Assistance is a demand-driven
payment.
Establishment Assistance is also demand-driven, with the number of services receiving
this assistance dependent on the business decisions of child care service providers to
enter the market.
Jobs Education and Training Child Care Fee Assistance
In 2009–10, the Australian Government committed approximately $53.2 million to the
JET Child Care Fee Assistance program.
22
Annual Report 2009-10
The program provides additional assistance to help families with the cost of child care,
usually while they are undertaking study. The assistance is paid to the approved child
care service, so that a family’s fees can be reduced.
Estimates of the numbers of parents and children involved in the program in 2008–09
were revised at the time of the 2009–10 Budget to more accurately reflect take-up of the
program. The number of parents in the program increased from 22 722 in 2008–09 to 27
930 in 2009–10 (around 22 per cent), with many of the parents undertaking study.
Demand and timing for assistance for parents and children is also influenced by the
availability and starting dates of courses.
Trend analysis
From 1 July 2008, eligibility for JET Child Care Fee Assistance was extended from 12
months of study to 24 months, regardless of the course duration, so customers can
choose to receive the additional support at the time most advantageous for them.
Parents undertaking part-time courses can receive part-time equivalent funding for the
duration of their courses. This extension is directed at parents improving their skills
through education and training, providing opportunities for sustained employment. As it
has taken effect, this policy change has contributed to the trend towards more JET Child
Care Fee Assistance recipients over the past two years. There will be an estimated 1700
new JET Child Care Fee Assistance customers each year due to this policy change.
Effectiveness indicators
The effectiveness key performance indicators (KPIs) listed in Table 1.2 provide details on
the number of children with additional needs using government-approved child care
services. This is seen as a good measure of the overall effectiveness of access to quality
child care and early learning services, as families with children from the target groups
identified often find it more difficult to access child care that is appropriate to their
special needs.
Table 1.2
Effectiveness indicators for Program 1.1
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actuala
—
—
Children with disability
22 100
26 300
Aboriginal, Torres Strait and Australian South Sea Islander children
14 300
19 300
Children from non-English backgrounds
84 500
109 200
116 000
N/A
Trend in the number of children with additional needs using
government approved child care services—by target group:
Total number of children with additional needs using government
approved child care services
a The actual data in this column is derived from the 2008–09 Child Care Provider Survey.
Data for 2009–10 is not available. This is because there is no current data available from
the Child Care Census. The data developments undertaken by the department during
2009–10 will result in current data becoming available again from 2010–11.
The data outlined above were derived from the 2008–09 Child Care Provider Survey
which is a transitional data source for this indicator. The total number of children with
23
Annual Report 2009-10
additional needs using government approved child care services is not included as the
data source contains double counts. This is because children who fall within more than
one of the target groups may be included more than once, as reported by the child care
service they attended.
GoodStart purchase of ABC Learning
The unprecedented collapse of ABC Learning and its impact on thousands of Australian
families highlighted the importance of having a stable and diversified child care market in
Australia.
To minimise disruption and uncertainty for thousands of families and employees, the
Australian Government was quick to respond by providing funding to ensure the
continued operation of the loss-making ABC2 centres while the court-appointed receiver
managed their sale.
The ABC receiver's subsequent tender process for the remaining ABC1 centres provided
an opportunity for the community and not-for-profit sector to increase its representation
in the market.
Shortly before the finalisation of the bidding process, GoodStart approached the
government requesting a loan to help it meet the cost of its bid for most centres.
GoodStart was established by four non-profit organisations—Social Ventures Australia,
Mission Australia, the Brotherhood of St Laurence and the Benevolent Society.
Together, these organisations have committed to providing high-quality, accessible child
care, with a particular focus on children from at-risk and disadvantaged backgrounds.
These aims are closely aligned with the government's priorities in early learning and child
care.
The government agreed to lend GoodStart $15 million over seven years to assist its
acquisition of the centres. This loan is not a grant and will be paid back in full, at no cost
to taxpayers. By 30 June 2010, GoodStart had completed its purchase of more than 600
ABC Learning Centres. The remaining centres are expected to settle progressively until
the end of September 2010.
The entry of GoodStart into the child care market has increased the not-for-profit share
of the long day care market from around 22 per cent to around 34 per cent, spread
across many operators.
Program 1.2 Child Care Fee Assistance
Program objective
To assist parents with the cost of child care. Through the provision of this assistance
more families are able to access quality services that support early childhood learning
and care.
24
Annual Report 2009-10
Table 1.3
Key performance indicators for Program 1.2
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
713 200
701 000a
11 700
13 417
600 000
628 000
80%b
76%c
33%
35%
600 000
628 000
Child Care Benefit (CCB)
Number of approved child care places available
Number of eligible approved services
Number of eligible families using approved child care
services
Percentage of families using approved child care
services and receiving Child Care Benefit
Percentage of families claiming maximum rate Child
Care Benefit
Child Care Rebate (CCR)d
Number of families receiving CCR
a As child care places for most child care services types (except in-home care and occasional care) have been
uncapped since 2006, services are no longer required to report the actual number of approved child care places.
In the 2010–11 Portfolio Budget Statements, this indicator has been replaced with the number of children using
approved child care places. The government will continue to fund an unlimited number of child care places in
long day care, outside school hours care and family day care across the country, helping new centres set up
and existing centres to expand. Families accessing those new child care places will be eligible for the Child Care
Benefit and the Child Care Rebate.
b This estimate was published in the 2009–10 Portfolio Additional Estimates Statements.
c The removal of the minimum rate for CCB payment from 1 July 2008 resulted in a reduction in the percentage
of families who use approved child care services and receive CCB as a fee reduction. However, families affected
by this change (by either electing to have or having their CCB payment entitlement reduced to zero) still met
the other CCB eligibility requirements apart from the income test, and so could receive the increased CCR
entitlement.
d The Child Care Tax Rebate was renamed the Child Care Rebate, effective from July 2009, because since
2006–07 it has been paid directly by the Family Assistance Office rather than claimed from the tax system. The
name change did not change a family’s eligibility or entitlement to the rebate.
This table shows the performance indicators for the child care fee assistance program. It
shows that 628,000 families were eligible for approved child care services, the same total
who received the Child Care Rebate (CCR). 76% of these families used approved child
care services and received Child Care Benefit. 36% claimed the maximum rate Child Care
Benefit.
Child Care Benefit
The Child Care Benefit (CCB) is based on a family’s income so that it is targeted to people
most in need of additional financial assistance. Most families using approved child care
receive this subsidy as a fee reduction at the time they pay their fees. Some receive it as
a lump sum at the end of the year.
Trend analysis
Expenditure on the CCB and the number of families assisted since 2007–08 have shown
gradual growth.
25
Annual Report 2009-10
Child Care Rebate
Families not receiving CCB may be eligible for the CCR. The CCR is not income-tested, so
working families using approved child care can receive this assistance regardless of their
income.
From July 2008, a family’s rebate entitlement increased to cover up to 50 per cent of outof-pocket costs up to a maximum of $7500 per child per year; it can also be claimed
quarterly, closer to when the costs are incurred. Due to these changes, the estimated
actual expenditure for child care fee relief assistance for families under the CCB and the
CCR has significantly increased since 2007–08 when the rebate was 30 per cent of outof-pocket costs. Estimated actual expenditure for 2009–10 is $3.2 billion.
Trend analysis
As a result of changes to the rate of rebate, outlays for CCR have increased. It is not
possible to attribute meaningful trends for comparison over the period 2007–08 to 2009–
10 due to these changes. However, the number of families assisted by CCR was similar in
2008–09 and 2009–10.
Effectiveness indicator
The effectiveness indicator in Table 1.4 provides details on the child care out-of-pocket
expenses as a proportion of weekly disposable income after child care subsidies. This is
seen as a good measure of overall affordability of access to quality services that support
early childhood learning and care.
Table 1.4
Effectiveness indicator for Program 1.2
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Child care out-of-pocket expenses as a proportion of
weekly disposable income after child care subsidies
(based on one child in full-time long day care
depending on income up to $100 000 per annum)
10-14%
8-10%a
a Based on average child care fees.
Child care affordability, as measured by out-of-pocket expenses (after subsidies), has
outperformed the estimate, coming in at eight to 10 per cent of weekly disposable
income, based on average fees. This is due to the July 2008 increase to the CCR from 30
per cent to 50 per cent of approved child care gap fees (after CCB).
Trend analysis
This indicator was last reported on in 2007–08. At that time, child care out-of-pocket
costs with one child in full-time long day care were nine to 10 per cent of disposable
income after child care subsidies.
National Quality Agenda assessment and ratings field tests
On 7 December 2009, COAG signed an agreement to raise the quality of early childhood
education and care. The National Quality Agenda for Early Childhood Education and Care
26
Annual Report 2009-10
includes a new National Quality Standard that will apply to long day care, family day
care, outside school hours care and preschool settings from 1 January 2012.
To reduce the current regulatory burden on services, a single, nationally consistent
assessment and rating system is being established. In an important first step, the new
assessment process has been piloted through a field test involving 21 long day care
services across Australia. The field test, which took place during June 2010, was very well
received by both services and assessors—there is genuine enthusiasm for the focus on
outcomes for children and families. Feedback from the field test has informed and helped
finetune the assessment and rating process and supporting documents.
‘It was a positive experience for our team and a great opportunity to have input into a
process we strongly believe in. The new framework has a stronger emphasis on
education. It allows
'We are very positive about the new quality reforms and have enjoyed being part of the
field I test process. It gave us an opportunity to showcase what we do as educators and
also consult I about the way services like ours will be assessed and rated in the future.
We firmly believe that I the quality reforms need to result in the best possible outcomes
for children and are proud to be part of the team that has helped with its development.'
Unicare University Child Care Club, I Nedlands, Western Australia.
Australian Early Development Index
The Australian Early Development Index (AEDI) is a population measure of how young
children prior to school age are developing in different Australian communities. The
national implementation of the AEDI is an Australian Government initiative, with funding
of $24.5 million to 30 June 2011.
27
Annual Report 2009-10
In 2009, teachers around Australia collected data on more than 260 000 children
(representing 98 per cent of the estimated resident population of five-year-old children),
using a checklist across five domains of early childhood development: physical health and
wellbeing; social competence; emotional maturity; language and cognitive skills; and
communication skills and general knowledge.
The preliminary results, available through the AEDI website www.aedi.org.au, show that
while most children are doing well, others are developmentally vulnerable as they enter
school (23.5 per cent of Australian children are developmentally vulnerable on one or
more of the AEDI domains and 11.8 per cent of Australian children are developmentally
vulnerable on two or more of the AEDI domains).
The AEDI provides a robust dataset that will have a vital role in strengthening our early
childhood evidence base. It has the potential to be used widely within the community,
including schools, teachers, parents, non-government organisations, and all levels of
government to support and inform early childhood policy and practice. A number of
regional and community forums have been held across Australia to discuss the AEDI data
and what it means for
In May 2010, the Australian Government announced an extra $2.6 million in funding to
help communities respond to their AEDI results through the AEDI Local Champions
Program. Local champions are individuals or organisations with local experience and
expertise that will work with targeted communities where there is identified disadvantage
and developmental vulnerabilities. The local champions will assist in identifying the needs
of the community and promote activities to improve the outcomes for the young children
of that community.
Program 1.3 Early Childhood Education
Program objective
To improve access to quality and nationally consistent early childhood education
programs delivered in a diversity of settings, including through preschool and child care,
to support optimal child development in the early years and prepare children for formal
schooling irrespective of where they live.
28
Annual Report 2009-10
The new Early Learning and Care Centres will increase the supply of integrated early
childhood education and care facilities. The program places a strong emphasis on
connecting with schools to ensure that all Australian children are fully prepared for
learning and life. To facilitate this, where possible, the Early Learning and Care Centres
are being established on school, TAFE, university or other community land. The early
learning and care provided will be in a long day care setting that takes into account the
specific requirements of the local community. Children attending these centres in the
year before formal schooling will also have access to an affordable, age-appropriate early
learning program, delivered by a qualified teacher.
Table 1.5
Key performance indicators for Program 1.3
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
During 2009 the department
will be developing bilateral
agreements with individual
states and territories. These
agreements will specify the
state or territory's planned
approach to the delivery of the
commitment. KPIs will be
developed once these
agreements are finalised
Bilateral agreements have
been signed with each state
and territory. The agreements
contain six KPIs, covering
enrolment rates (including for
disadvantaged and Indigenous
children); teacher numbers;
cost to parents; and hours of
attendance
Universal Access to Preschool (NP)
Key performance indicators for this item are still
being developed
This table shows that bilateral agreements were signed with each state and territory in
2009-10 regarding the Early Childhood Education program. The key performance
indicators for this program are still being developed.
Universal Access to Preschool
In 2009, under the National Partnership Agreement on Early Childhood Education, the
Commonwealth entered into bilateral agreements with each state and territory
government to support the universal access to early childhood education commitment.
The bilateral agreements contain baseline performance indicators and performance
benchmarks against six key performance indicators over five financial years to 2013. The
bilateral agreements can be found at
www.federalfinancialrelations.gov.au/content/national_partnership_agreements/educatio
n.aspx.
Trend analysis
It is not possible to undertake a trend analysis on this indicator, as 2009–10 is the first
time it has been reported against.
New Early Childhood Services for the Milikapiti Community
Child care services commenced in Milikapiti, Melville Island, in March 2010 in a creche
funded as part of the Northern Territory Emergency Response.
With support from the Budget Based Funding, the three main communities that make up
the Tiwi Islands now have access to child care services, including after school care and
vacation care programs.
29
Annual Report 2009-10
To build community capacity and the sustainability of the services, local community
members received basic child care skills training. The creche is operated by a full-time
coordinator, group leader and two child care workers with support from part-time child
care workers and relief staff. Further staff training to support the attainment of early
childhood qualifications by the current workforce is being explored with the support of the
Tiwi Islands Shire Council, which operates the creche.
Effectiveness indicators
The effectiveness indicators listed in Table 1.6 provide details on the preschool
participation rates of all children (including Indigenous children). An increase in the
participation rate is expected as a result of the Universal Access initiative.
Table 1.6
Effectiveness indicators for Program 1.3
Performance indicator
Estimate Actual
Preschool participation rates of all children
71%
70%
Indigenous children preschool participation rates
59%
62%
Enrolments for all children did not reach the estimates, partly due to more accurate data
becoming available. The relevant National Partnership commenced well into the reporting
period which has impacted on the result. An increase in enrolments for Indigenous
children is attributed to the universal access to early childhood education initiative and
continuing actions by state and territory governments.
Trend analysis
30
Annual Report 2009-10
It is not possible to undertake a trend analysis on this indicator, as 2009–10 is the first
time it has been reported against.
Departmental outputs for Outcome 1
Table 1.7
Departmental outputs performance information
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Payments are made in accordance with approved
timelines
All programs to meet relevant
administrative targets set by
quality assurance processes in
DEEWR
All payments were made in
accordance with relevant
administrative targets set by
quality assurance processes
Payments made are based on calculations which
are accurate and in accordance with approved
guidelines
All programs to meet relevant
administrative targets set by
quality assurance processes in
DEEWR
All program payments were
accurate and met relevant
administrative targets
Program management
High-quality Ministerial replies as measured by the Qualitative evaluation of
Satisfieda
level of satisfaction of Ministers and the
satisfaction using feedback from
Parliamentary Secretary with the quality and
the Ministers and Parliamentary
timeliness of the replies
Secretary to the Secretary
Services provided by Australian Government
agencies (e.g. Centrelink) satisfy performance
requirements
DEEWR requirements met
Centrelink satisfied the key
performance measures in the
bilateral management
arrangement (See below)
Policy services
High-quality policy advice as measured by the level
of satisfaction of Ministers and the Parliamentary
Secretary with the quality and timeliness of policy
advice
Qualitative evaluation of
Satisfieda
satisfaction using feedback from
the Ministers and Parliamentary
Secretary to the Secretary
High-quality research and evaluation reports as
measured by the level of satisfaction of Ministers
and the Parliamentary Secretary with the quality
and timeliness of the reports
Qualitative evaluation of
satisfaction using feedback to
the Secretary from Ministers
and Parliamentary Secretary
Satisfieda
Research activities are completed according to plan At least 90% completed to plan Satisfied
a During the year, ministers, parliamentary secretaries and their staff provide feedback on the level of
satisfaction with departmental advice during regular meetings with the department. Overall feedback from their
offices is that they recognise the significant efforts made by departmental staff to meet their requirements. The
volume of written material provided to the ministers and parliamentary secretaries remained steady over 2009–
10. The department provided training to staff and monitored the quality of ministerial correspondence and
briefings.
This table shows that the department satisfied the estimated performance indicators in
program management and policy services.
Bilateral management arrangement
The bilateral management arrangement between Centrelink, the Department of Human
Services and DEEWR provides a framework for all three agencies to deliver outcomes in
relation to employment, education and child care. The arrangement contains a confidence
framework developed to monitor the strength and success of the relationship between
agencies and to assure the parties that policy and program outcomes are being achieved.
31
Annual Report 2009-10
Overall, Centrelink’s performance against the confidence framework was satisfactory
during 2009–10.
The results of the annual reconciliation of CCB exceeded the department’s expectations;
over 700 000 reconciliations were completed.
Outcome 2
Improved learning, literacy, numeracy and educational attainment for school
students, through funding for quality teaching and learning environments,
workplace learning and career advice
The Australian Government’s Education Revolution aims to ensure that all young
Australians have the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and skills to enable them to
reach their full potential. Improving educational outcomes for all young Australians is
central to the nation’s social and economic prosperity and will position young people to
live fulfilling, productive and responsible lives.
The government provides educational leadership and works in partnership with state and
territory governments and non-government school authorities, parents, educators and
other organisations so that teaching and learning for all Australian school-age children is
the highest quality.
COAG has set ambitious targets to lift educational attainment and to close the gap
between the educational outcomes of Indigenous and non-Indigenous students. These
are to:
●
lift the Year 12 or equivalent attainment rate to 90 per cent by 2015
●
halve the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students in reading, writing
and numeracy within a decade (2018)
●
at least halve the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students’ Year 12 or
equivalent attainment rates by 2020.
To achieve these targets, the government is implementing a range of reforms. More than
$24 billion is being provided through collaborative National Partnerships (NPs) with states
and territories to:
●
improve teacher quality
●
boost literacy and numeracy
●
raise achievement in disadvantaged school communities
●
support students in the transition from school to further education, training or to
employment
●
prepare students for further education and training and to live and work in a digital
world
●
lift Year 12 or equivalent attainment.
32
Annual Report 2009-10
The department is working in collaboration with state and territory governments and
non-government education authorities to close the gap between the outcomes of
Indigenous and non-Indigenous students. The development of the Indigenous Education
Action Plan 2010–2014 provides an important platform to improve the educational
outcomes and economic participation of Indigenous students over the coming years.
In addition, the rapid construction and refurbishment of school infrastructure is building
21st century learning environments to support achievement by students. These new
facilities will also be available for broader community use. The rapid investment in this
infrastructure program provided economic stimulus as part of the response to the global
recession.
State and territory governments regulate and fund government and non-government
schools in Australia. The Commonwealth also funds government schools and is the
primary source of public funding for non-government schools.
An open and transparent review of Commonwealth funding for schooling commenced in
2009–10 and is to report towards the end of 2011. The report’s recommendations are
expected to set the platform for long-term investment and improvement in educational
outcomes.
Following the launch of the My School website www.myschool.edu.au by the Australian
Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) in January 2010, a wide range
of nationally comparable information about schools is available to support accountability,
school evaluation and resource allocation. Schools which are performing well provide
models of education practice to assist other schools make improvements.
Another significant element of the government’s reform agenda for Australian schools is
the development of an Australian Curriculum from Kindergarten to Year 12. This will
provide the same curriculum content and achievement standards for schools across
Australia. This will be one of the first in the world to be delivered in an online
environment, ensuring that it is dynamic and can be both readily updated and linked to
high-quality curriculum resources.
The Office for Youth supports the government’s vision for all young people to be safe,
healthy, happy and resilient and to have the opportunities, skills and capabilities to learn,
work and engage in community life and to influence decisions that affect them. The
office, through its whole of government function, builds on the government’s significant
investment and effort for young people. The office led the development of the National
Strategy for Young Australians and continues to work with youth sector organisations,
agencies and all levels of government, to provide policy advice about the specific needs
of young people in Australia. The office manages the Australian Youth Forum, which
provides young people and the youth sector with the opportunity to communicate directly
with the government, and administers several programs which support development
opportunities for young people and help them engage with their families and
communities.
Outcome 2 key priorities
The key priorities for 2009–10 were to:
33
Annual Report 2009-10
●
roll out the $16.2 billion Building the Education Revolution (BER) program as part of
the Nation Building—Economic Stimulus Plan developed by the government in
response to the global economic crisis
●
implement the range of NPs aimed at improving educational outcomes for
Australians and at closing the gap for Indigenous students
●
work in collaboration with state, territory and non-government education providers
to close the gap between the outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
students and those for other students
●
publish comprehensive, nationally comparable information on the performance,
operating context and resources of all schools in Australia via a new specific-purpose
website managed by an independent expert body, ACARA
●
support ACARA in developing the Australian Curriculum for Kindergarten to Year 12
in the learning areas of English, mathematics, science and history
●
progress an open and transparent review of funding for schooling, including through
the release of a discussion paper and draft terms of reference in April 2010
●
establish the Business-School Connections Roundtable as part of the government’s
response to the 2020 Summit
●
develop and release the National Strategy for Young Australians—a framework to
guide government actions and improve government interventions for young people.
Outcome 2 key achievements
In 2009–10:
●
Under the BER program, 23 800 school projects were approved; of those, 23 711
were begun and 14 461 were completed.
●
The My School website www.myschool.edu.au, launched in January 2010, brought
together, for the first time in Australia, nationally comparable data on school
performance, operating context and resources.
●
Implementation plans were negotiated with all jurisdictions under the National
Partnership on Youth Attainment and Transitions and Youth Connections providers
and School Business Community Partnership Brokers were contracted in 113 youth
attainment and transitions service regions, providing national coverage.
●
The offering of the Certificate IV in Career Development by 18 registered training
organisations was facilitated; representing an increase of 80 per cent in 12 months.
●
Two Business–School Connections Roundtable meetings were facilitated and a
discussion paper for consultations was developed. The roundtable will develop a
practical strategy to ensure that secondary schools benefit from connections with
business. This supports the broader commitment to improve the linkages between
schools and their communities.
34
Annual Report 2009-10
●
Funding of $69.9 million was allocated to assist 2900 schools in purchasing over 321
000 computers through the National Secondary School Computer Fund.
●
Over 2200 new digital resources were acquired through the National Digital Learning
Resources Network (formerly The Le@rning Federation), bringing the total number
of digital learning resources in its repository to 11 280.
●
The new service provider for the education sector, Education Services Australia,
formed from merging the ministerial companies Curriculum Corporation and
Education.au limited, began operation on 1 March 2010.
●
On 12 March 2010, states and territories agreed to implement the National Schools
Interoperability Program, under the Digital Education Revolution.
●
The National Strategy for Young Australians was released in April 2010.
●
Between 16 December 2009 and 28 February 2010, consultations on the draft
Indigenous Education Action Plan 2010–2014 were held, to ensure that the final
document reflects the experience and expertise of Indigenous Australians, educators
and others. Over 100 submissions were received through the public consultation
process, and on 15 April 2010, education ministers referred the draft plan to COAG
for its consideration.
●
Under the $550 million Smarter Schools—Improving Teacher Quality National
Partnership the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership was
established and the Teach for Australia initiative was implemented.
●
Under the $540 million Smarter Schools—Literacy and Numeracy National
Partnership
●
-
Catholic schools participating in the National Partnership in the Kimberley
region of Western Australia, focus on implementing literacy and numeracy
programs with proven success, combined with a high level of support for
schools and staff through regional consultants. A strong feature of this model is
improving each school’s understanding of their students’ literacy and numeracy
skills through providing specialised data analysis training of regional
consultants and key school staff which will enable schools to have a better
understanding of how to use data to better target support to meet the
individual learning needs of each student.
-
networks of 14 literacy partnership coaches and 14 numeracy partnership
coaches were created in South Australian primary schools that were identified
in the 2008 NAPLAN and state-based literacy and numeracy testing as having
the potential for significant improvement in performance. The coaches lead the
professional development of teachers and support school leaders in their plan
to achieve school improvements.
Under the $1.5 billion Smarter Schools—Low Socio-Economic Status School
Communities National Partnership
-
teams of experienced teachers led by an Executive Director School
Improvement (‘turnaround teams’) were established in Queensland schools to
35
Annual Report 2009-10
provide targeted specialist advice to school leaders, teachers, other staff,
students and parents to ensure whole school, innovative and flexible
approaches to address issues such as literacy and numeracy, student wellbeing
and data analysis.
-
principals of the NP schools in western New South Wales committed to working
collaboratively to implement a change strategy that would give schools access
to experienced, high-performing school leaders to lead, mentor and support
local principals in developing processes, strategies and programs. This has
significantly boosted the leadership capacity of schools in the region and these
leaders support them in developing capability in data analysis, evaluation and
accountability.
●
In September 2009, the national results of literacy and numeracy testing were
published in the 2009 NAPLAN Summary Report. The full national report, National
Assessment Program— Literacy and Numeracy: Achievement in Reading, Writing,
Language Conventions and Numeracy, was released by the Ministerial Council for
Education, Early Childhood Development and Youth Affairs (MCEECDYA) in
December 2009.
●
On 1 March 2010, the content and achievement standards for the draft Kindergarten
to Year 10 Australian Curriculum were released for public consultation until 30 May
2010.
●
On 14 May 2010, the content for the draft senior secondary years Australian
Curriculum was released for public consultation until 30 July 2010.
●
The Primary Connections curriculum resources were aligned with the draft Australian
Curriculum: Science to promote better teaching of that subject in primary schools.
●
Over $384 million in funding was allocated to 92 projects for 301 schools across
Australia, under Round Two of the Trade Training Centres in Schools Program (142
applications from 494 schools across all school sectors and states and territories
were received and assessed for the round).
Program 2.1 Government Schools National Support
Program objective
The objective of this program is to contribute to boosting participation and Australia’s
productivity by providing supplementary funding to government schools that contribute
to the achievement of the five outcomes set out in the National Education Agreement
(NEA) agreed by COAG. These are:
●
all children are engaged in, and benefiting from, schooling
●
young people are meeting basic literacy and numeracy standards, and overall levels
of literacy and numeracy achievement are improving
●
Australian students excel by international standards
36
Annual Report 2009-10
●
schooling promotes social inclusion and reduces the educational disadvantage of
children, especially Indigenous children
●
young people make a successful transition from school to work and further study.
Under the National Education Agreement approximately $14 billion is being provided by
the government for government schools over the four years from 2009–2012. This
funding is supplementary to the funding provided by the states and territories, which
have primary responsibility for funding schools.
The Australian Government and state and territory governments have committed,
through the National Education Agreement, to the objective that all Australian school
students acquire the knowledge and skills to participate effectively in society and
employment in a globalised economy. States and territories are responsible for working
with the nongovernment school sector in their state or territory to ensure their
participation in relevant aspects of the agreement.
The Performance Reporting Framework for the agreement is detailed in the
Intergovernmental Agreement on Federal Financial Relations ‘Public Accountability and
Performance Reporting’. Performance information for Program 2.1 will be reported to
COAG by the COAG Reform Council.
The agreement incorporates the COAG targets set for schooling and these must be met
across all Australian schools regardless of sector (government or nongovernment).
To monitor and assess the progress of governments against the agreed outcomes in the
agreement, COAG has endorsed the following performance indicators:
●
Proportion of children enrolled in and attending school (by Indigenous and low
socioeconomic status (SES))
●
Literacy and numeracy achievement of Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students in national
testing (by Indigenous and low SES)
●
Proportion of students in the bottom and top levels of performance in international
testing; for example, the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA)
and the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS)
●
Proportion of the 20–24-year-old population having attained at least a Year 12 or
equivalent or Australian Quality Framework Certificate II (by Indigenous and low
SES)
●
Proportion of Indigenous students completing Year 10
●
Proportion of young people participating in post-school education or training six
months after school
●
Proportion of 18–24-year-olds engaged in full-time employment, education or
training at, or above, Certificate III.
The COAG Reform Council monitors, assesses and publicly reports on the performance of
the Australian Government and state and territory governments in achieving the
37
Annual Report 2009-10
outcomes and performance benchmarks specified in the agreement. The 2008 baseline
report released in 2009 is available at www.coag.gov.au/crc/reports.
Table 2.1
Key performance indicators for Program 2.1
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Government Schools Specific Special Purpose Payment
Number of full-time equivalent students funded (enrolment
projections)
2 255 000 2 269 277
IESIP Elements
Number of participants in the Indigenous Youth Mobility
Programa
220
202
Number of participants in the Indigenous Youth Leadership
Programa
360
391
Number of students attending Sporting Chance academiesa
1200
n/ab
a This program is funded under the Indigenous Education Targeted Assistance Act 2000.
b This indicator relates directly to the continued expansion of Sporting Chance academies, rather than the
overall attendance of students at Sporting Chance academies, which was reflected by the estimate of 3000. The
estimate relating to student participation arising from the expansion should have been 1200. Data verifying this
estimate is not due to be collected until August 2010.
This table shows the key performance indicators for the Government Schools National
Support program. The number of full-time equivalent students funded by "Government
Schools Specific Special Purpose Payments" were above estimates (2,255,000 estimated,
2,269,277 actual).
Government Schools Specific Special Purpose Payment
The figures in Table 2.1 refer to the full-time equivalent number of students in
government schools funded under the NEA in the 2009 school year. The number of fulltime equivalent students has increased by 8503 (0.4 per cent) since 2008. About 94 per
cent of this increase is due to increased participation at the senior secondary level of
school education.
IESIP Elements
Indigenous Youth Leadership Program
The Indigenous Youth Leadership Program (IYLP) is helping to close the gap in
Indigenous educational disadvantage through supporting a number of Indigenous
students to attend high-performing secondary schools (government and nongovernment, day and boarding) and/or universities to complete Year 12 and/or an
undergraduate degree.
Since its inception in 2005 (for 2006 commencements) the number of places available,
the demand for places and the take-up of places by students in the program has
continued to grow. All available secondary scholarship places have been filled since 2008
and, while not fully subscribed in 2010, demand for tertiary scholarships is growing as
38
Annual Report 2009-10
the number of young people in the primary target group—Year 12 graduates—grows. The
number of students assisted by the program will continue to grow until 2012 when up to
900 young people are expected to receive a scholarship. The number of schools approved
as IYLP high-performing schools has grown from 50 in 2009 to 62 in 2010.
Indigenous Youth Leadership Program: one participant's perspective
‘Being part of the Indigenous Youth Leadership Program has changed my life in various
ways. I have met amazing young Indigenous people who I can relate to and who are
striving to make it and be somebody in this world. I have had support from both my
peers and mentors who were able to see me through to Year 12 and encourage me to
further my studies at a university level. I think that having this support is essential in
helping see young Indigenous people become leaders in our country.
'The gatherings which are organised once a year have been amazing as Indigenous
students all over Australia come together to meet and partake in a life changing
experience. We meet inspirational Indigenous leaders from around Australia who tell us
their life stories which allows us to be aware that we are not alone and anything is
possible you just need to believe in yourself. Something I will never forget being taught
on the 2007 gathering 'who are we— warriors, what are we holding in our hands—spears,
what are we holding in our hands—shields, what are we going to do—change the world.'
(Abby-Rose Cox, Indigenous Youth Leadership Program participant)
Indigenous Youth Mobility Program
The Indigenous Youth Mobility Program (IYMP) provides $49.2 million over four years to
December 2012 to provide 324 places each semester for post-compulsory education and
training in a supported accommodation environment.
39
Annual Report 2009-10
The program provides practical assistance and support to help Indigenous young people
aged 16–24 years, mostly from remote areas, access post-secondary education and
training, including Australian Apprenticeships, in major centres.
Since 1 July 2009, 637 Indigenous young people have taken part in the program, with
123 course completions. At 30 June 2010, there were 213 active participants. The takeup rate of the program doubled in the first half of 2010. While the participation rates in
the program have improved, continued efforts will be made to focus on course
completions.
Sporting Chance academies
The expansion of the Sporting Chance academies continues to encourage school
engagement and positive educational outcomes for Indigenous students.
Ten new girls’ academies commenced operations in Semester One, 2010: four in Western
Australia, four in the Northern Territory, and one each in Queensland and Victoria,
supporting an additional 700 students in each calendar year.
Funds were provided to Former Origin Greats to support an academy for 500 students in
southeast Queensland.
Literacy and numeracy—national minimum standards
National Assessment Program
The National Assessment Program encompasses the set of assessments of student
performance endorsed by MCEECDYA. It includes national full-cohort literacy and
numeracy assessments in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9, three-yearly sample assessments in
science literacy, civics and citizenship, ICT literacy, and Australia’s participation in
international assessments.
National Assessment Program—Literacy and Numeracy
Following the introduction of the National Assessment Program—Literacy and Numeracy
(NAPLAN) in 2008, all students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 are assessed in May in reading,
writing, language conventions (spelling, punctuation and grammar) and numeracy.
Reporting from the second round of NAPLAN in 2009 provided comparative data for 2008
and 2009, and the 2010 national report to be released by MCEECDYA in December 2010
will allow for growth measures through tracking increased achievement for the same
cohort of students tested in 2008.
Results are reported using five national achievement scales which cover the full range of
achievement from Years 3 to 9 in each domain. Each scale consists of 10 bands which
represent the increasing complexity of the skills and understandings assessed by
NAPLAN. Six of these bands are used for reporting student performance in each year
level.
The national minimum standards represent the basic elements of literacy and numeracy
that students are expected to demonstrate for the year level. They are represented in the
reporting scale by a range of scores aligned with the second achievement band for each
40
Annual Report 2009-10
year level in each domain. The national minimum standard for Year 3 is band 2, Year 5 is
band 4, Year 7 is band 5 and Year 9 is band 6.
Students whose results are in the lowest band (below national minimum standard) will
need focused intervention and additional support to help them achieve the skills they
require to fully participate in schooling.
In 2009, the percentage of students at or above the national minimum standard (with the
exception of Year 9 writing and spelling) was more than 90 per cent across year levels
and domains ranging from:
●
92.2 per cent (spelling) to 95.7 per cent (writing) for Year 3 students
●
91.7 per cent (reading) to 94.2 per cent (numeracy) for Year 5 students
●
92.1 per cent (grammar and punctuation) to 94.8 per cent (numeracy) for Year 7
students
●
87.8 per cent (writing) to 95.0 per cent (numeracy) for Year 9 students.
Indigenous students achieving national minimum standards in literacy and
numeracy
The percentage of Indigenous students estimated to be working at, or above, the
national minimum standard is markedly lower than for non-Indigenous students in all
domains and at all year levels.
41
Annual Report 2009-10
Chart 2.1
Percentage of Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 Indigenous and non-Indigenous
students at or above the national minimum standards in reading,
writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation, and numeracy, NAPLAN
2009
Source: Ministerial Council for Education, Early Childhood Development and Youth Affairs 2009, National
Assessment Program— Literacy and Numeracy: Achievement in Reading, Writing, Language Conventions and
Numeracy.
42
Annual Report 2009-10
Chart 2.2
Percentage of Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students above, at or below the
national minimum standards in reading, writing, spelling, grammar
and punctuation, and numeracy, NAPLAN 2009
Source: Ministerial Council for Education, Early Childhood Development and Youth Affairs 2009, National
Assessment Program— Literacy and Numeracy: Achievement in Reading, Writing, Language Conventions and
Numeracy.
Trend analysis
NAPLAN was introduced in 2008. The earliest available trend data will be the 2010
NAPLAN results.
National Assessment Program—international assessments
The National Assessment Program accompanies Australia’s participation in international
tests. These provide information on the progress of Australian school students relative to
other countries and assist education systems and schools to identify strengths and
weaknesses in policy and practice.
Australia participates in two international sample assessments—PISA, conducted by the
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and TIMSS, conducted
by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement:
●
PISA—conducted every three years; tests reading, mathematical and scientific
literacy in a sample of 15-year-old students in Years 9, 10 or 11. COAG has agreed
that results from PISA will be one of the indicative progress measures used to
43
Annual Report 2009-10
provide information on the progress of Australian schooling towards achieving COAG
agreed outcomes.
●
TIMSS—conducted every four years; tests a sample of students in Years 4 and 8.
For the first time, Australia will also take part in the next cycle of the Progress in
International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) 2010–11, a five-yearly study which involves
assessing the reading literacy of Year 4 students. Participation in PIRLS 2010–11 will
provide Australia with the opportunity to benchmark reading literacy at Year 4
internationally and will provide data complementary to that collected through the
NAPLAN.
Australia’s results from the 2007 cycle of TIMSS—released in December 2008—showed
Australian students were above average in three out of the four test areas; for Year 8
mathematics, they were average.
Australia’s mathematics performance has improved since TIMSS 2003 at the Year 4 level
and was unchanged at Year 8. Performance in science was unchanged for Year 4 and
decreased for Year 8. Over the same period, a number of countries improved their
performance relative to Australia.
Indigenous students recorded much lower results than non-Indigenous students in both
PISA and TIMSS, and their results have not shown improvement over several testing
cycles.
●
Indigenous students achieve well below the OECD average for PISA, while Australia
as a whole performs above the OECD average.
●
Indigenous students have lower levels of self-efficacy and self-concept, particularly
in relation to mathematics and science, although there are no significant differences
in the levels of effort and persistence in studying reported by Indigenous and nonIndigenous students. Self-efficacy, socioeconomic status and home educational
resources were among the factors found to significantly influence Indigenous
performance in PISA.
●
For TIMSS 2007, the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous performance
increased for students at Year 4 level and remained consistent across cycles at Year
8 level.
National Assessment Program—sample assessments
Selected groups of students in Years 6 and 10 participate in the national sample
assessments that are held on a rolling three-yearly basis. Students’ achievement is
measured against nationally agreed proficiency standards in science literacy (for Year 6
students), civics and citizenship (Year 6 and Year 10 students), and ICT literacy (Year 6
and Year 10 students). The cyclical conduct of the sample assessments using comparable
data sets allows the monitoring of trends in student performance over time.
Samples of Year 6 and Year 10 students took part in ICT Literacy assessments in 2005
and 2008. The 2008 National Assessment Program—ICT Literacy Years 6 and 10 Report
was published in April 2010. Results from the 2008 assessment showed that nationally 57
per cent of Year 6 students achieved or bettered the Year 6 proficient standard and 66
44
Annual Report 2009-10
per cent of Year 10 students achieved or bettered the Year 10 proficient standard. This
represented a significant improvement in 2008 for Year 6 students—57 per cent achieved
or bettered the Year 6 proficient standard for 2008 compared to 49 per cent in 2005.
There was no statistically significant improvement for Year 10 students—66 per cent
achieved or bettered the Year 10 proficient standard in 2008 compared to 61 per cent in
2005.
Sample groups of Year 6 students participated in science literacy assessments in 2003,
2006 and 2009. The 2009 National Assessment Program—Science Literacy Year 6 Report
will be published late in 2010.
Sample groups of Year 6 and Year 10 students participated in civics and citizenship
assessments in 2004 and 2007. The 2007 National Assessment Program—Civics and
Citizenship Years 6 and 10 Report was published in February 2009. Students will
participate in the October 2010 assessment.
Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority
Since ACARA’s establishment in late May 2009, the authority has contributed significantly
to the government’s educational reform agenda.
In January 2010, ACARA launched the My School website. This site provides, for the first
time, nationally comparable information on all Australian schools, including the
publication of 2008 and 2009 NAPLAN data and associated contextual information. The
website provides unprecedented transparency on the performance of Australian schools
and focuses accountability on governments, systems, principals and teachers.
This investment in transparency has enabled parents and the community to understand a
school’s achievements and, importantly, the context within which a school operates. Data
presented on the website includes student and staff numbers, information about the type
of school, results from NAPLAN assessments, VET participation and Year 12 attainment
rates and student attendance information. Further information—such as financial data;
senior secondary information; percentages of students with disability or language
backgrounds other than English; growth data on literacy and numeracy achievement;
staff expertise levels; and parent, teacher and student satisfaction survey data—will be
added to the website as it becomes available.
My School supports data-driven decision making. It provides governments, education
authorities, systems and policy makers with reliable information on all schools in
Australia that helps inform school evaluation and improvement, educational
accountability and resource allocation.
Effectiveness indicators
Table 2.2
Effectiveness indicators for Program 2.1
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
1 376 000
1 379 598
Enrolment trends
Trend in full-time student enrolments in Australian schools:
Primary
45
Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
884 000
894 308
133 000
133 000
Percentage of young people who commence on the Indigenous
Youth Mobility Program who exit the program after achieving a
vocational education and training or higher education
qualification or to take-up full-time employment
60%
n/aa
Percentage of eligible Indigenous students in receipt of
Indigenous Youth Leadership Program scholarships who
complete Year 12
90%
96%
Secondary
Trend in the number of Indigenous students at school
a The new program delivery model introduced in July 2009 has meant it is too early to have sufficient data
integrity.
Table 2.3
Full-time school enrolments (government and non-government) by
level of education, Aus 2007 to 2009
Level of education
Primary
Secondary
Total
2007
1 969 303
1 447 220
3 416 523
2008
1 973 502
1 460 787
3 434 289
2009
1 986715
1 474 611
3 461 326
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2009, Schools, Australia, 2009, cat. no. 4221.0.
This table shows that there were a total of 3,461,326 full-time government and nongovernment school enrolments in Australia in 2009 for primary and secondary schools
combined, a slight increase over the previous two years.
Trend in full-time student enrolments in Australian schools (government and
non-government)
The government’s school program (programs 2.1 and 2.2) supported an increasing
number of students across Australia during 2009. Student numbers increased from their
2008 levels in all states and territories except Tasmania and the Northern Territory.
Government school enrolments have grown overall from 2007 to 2009, with a decline
from 2007 to 2008. Non-government school enrolments grew steadily from 2007 to
2009. Total growth 2008 to 2009 was 27 037 with an increase of 9352 in government
schools and an increase of 17 685 in non-government schools.
Table 2.4
Full-time school enrolments in government and no-government
schools, Australia: 2007 to 2009
Year
Government
Non-government
Total
2007
2 268 377
1 148 146
3 416 523
46
Annual Report 2009-10
Year
Government
Non-government
Total
2008
2 264 554
1 169 735
3 434 289
Source: ABS, 2009, Schools, Australia, 2009, cat. no. 4221.0.
Chart 2.3
Apparent retention rates of full-time secondary students, Indigenous
and non-Indigenous students from Years 7 and 8 to Year 12
Source: ABS, 2009, Schools, Australia, 2009, cat. no. 4221.0.
Trend in the number of Indigenous students at school
Since 2001, the Indigenous apparent retention rate from Years 7 and 8 to Year 12 has
increased by 10 percentage points, from 36 per cent to 45 per cent. Since 2001, the gap
between the Indigenous and non-Indigenous Year 12 retention rate has reduced from 39
percentage points to 32 percentage points.
Over three years since 2006, Indigenous retention rates increased by 5 percentage
points, closing the gap with non-Indigenous retention rates by 4 percentage points.
Program 2.2 Non-government Schools National Support
Program objective
Fulfilling the Australian Government’s election commitments to non-government schools,
the government will provide an estimated $28 billion for non-government schooling for
2009–2012 under the Schools Assistance Act 2008. Funding appropriated under the Act
supported the capital and operating costs of the non-government primary and secondary
education schools and systems. Government funding to non-government schools
supplemented funding raised by the schools from other sources.
47
Annual Report 2009-10
Table 2.5
Key performance indicators for Program 2.2
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
1 174 000
1 174 425
250b
266
Recurrent Grants—Non-government
Number of full-time equivalent students funded (enrolment
projections)
Capital Grants—Non-governmenta
Number of schools assisted with capital support
English as a Second Language—New Arrivals (ESL-NA)—Non-government
Number of new arrivals assisted
1158
1052
9594
9393
25
26
5
5
Investing in Our Schools Programmec
Number of eligible government and non-government schools
that receive funding
Local Schools Working Together Pilot Programme
Number of projects funded
Local Community Centres—contribution program
Number of eligible centres that received funding
a Figures are for the 2009 calendar year.
B This estimate was published in the 2009–10 Portfolio Additional Estimates Statements.
C This program ceased on 31 December 2008. The final funding round for government schools was in 2007. The
final funding round for non-government schools was in 2008. The estimate and actual figures reflects all
program years.
This table shows the key performance indicators for the non-government schools national
support program. The actual results for recurrent and capital grants exceeded
expectation.
Recurrent Grants—Non-government
During 2009–10, $6.1 billion in recurrent assistance grants was paid to non-government
schools to assist with the recurrent costs of school education. This assistance is paid on a
per student basis. During the same period, the government also provided $61.8 million in
funding under the Indigenous Supplementary Assistance program and Indigenous
Funding Guarantee, which support the delivery of additional educational services to
Indigenous students.
This indicator refers to the full-time equivalent number of students in non-government
schools during the 2009 school year who are funded under the Schools Assistance Act
2008. This number has increased by 18 661 (1.6 per cent) since 2008.
Capital Grants—Non-government
48
Annual Report 2009-10
The Australian Government continues capital grants funding under the Schools Assistance
Act to non-government school communities to provide and improve capital infrastructure,
where they would otherwise not have access to sufficient capital resources under the Act.
From 1 January 2009, capital funding for the government school sector was incorporated
into funding provided to the states and territories through the National Education
Agreement.
English as a Second Language—New Arrivals—Non-government
In 2009–10, the English as a Second Language—New Arrivals Program assisted 1052
students. This assistance consists of a one-off payment to non-government educational
authorities to help with providing intensive English tuition to recent new arrivals from
language backgrounds other than English. Although this was less than the 1158
estimated student numbers, eligibility is dependent on specific visa subclasses and the
level of English tuition required.
Investing in Our Schools Programme
The Investing in Our Schools Programme (IOSP) funded small-scale infrastructure
projects in schools. In line with a funding decision of the previous government, funding
for this program ended in 2008. All government and non-government IOSP projects are
expected to be fully acquitted during 2010–11. Funding for this program was provided
under the Schools Assistance (Learning Together—Achievement Through Choice and
Opportunity) Act 2004.
Local Community Centres Contribution Program
The Local Community Centres Contribution Program was announced in the 2008–09
Budget. The government provided $1.138 million as a contribution towards the
construction and fit out of five community centres. The aim is for the centres to provide a
meeting place and other resources for a range of local community groups. It is
anticipated that all five community centres will be fully acquitted by the end of 2011.
Literacy, Numeracy and Special Learning Needs Program
The Literacy, Numeracy and Special Learning Needs Program assists non-government
education authorities in improving the learning outcomes of educationally disadvantaged
students by contributing funding for additional teaching and learning assistance. The
program has a particular focus on literacy and numeracy and includes students with
disabilities. The program funding is only one source of funding available to nongovernment schools to meet the needs of educationally disadvantaged students.
School Languages Program
The School Languages Program (SLP) funded under the Schools Assistance Act supports
the study of Asian, European, Indigenous and Auslan languages from Kindergarten to
Year 12 levels in non-government schools and after-hours community languages schools.
SLP funding for government education authorities was rolled into the NEA in 2009. In
2009, targeted funding of $12.795 million was provided by the Australian Government to
state and territory non-government education authorities to implement strategies for
languages education. In 2010, an estimated $13.595 million in funding will be provided
to non-government schools to support languages education.
49
Annual Report 2009-10
The MCEECDYA National Statement and Plan for Languages Education in Australian
Schools 2005–2008 guides the development of language education in schools. All
education ministers have agreed to revise and update the plan. This activity is currently
being progressed by the MCEECDYA Languages Education Working Party.
Short Term Emergency Assistance
Short Term Emergency Assistance funding is available to non-government schools facing
financial hardship. To be approved for funding, the applicant must satisfy four criteria:
the financial difficulty is short term; the financial difficulty is severe; the circumstance
was unexpected; and the requirement for assistance qualifies as special need.
Two applications received before the start of the financial year were assessed against
criteria for funding and approved during 2009–10. The total amount of funding paid in
the reporting year was $420 000 (GST inclusive).
Establishment Assistance
Establishment Assistance was discontinued for new schools with effect from the 2009
program year. The assistance was available in 2009 only for non-government schools
that commenced in 2008, and received the first year of Establishment Assistance in
2008. During 2009–10, $358 533 408 was paid to schools and systems at the rate of
$250 per student.
Effectiveness indicators
Table 2.6
Effectiveness indicators for Program 2.2 (Non-government)
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
—
—
Primary
607 000
607 117
Secondary
582 000
580 303
22 000
22 233
Enrolment trends
Trend in full-time student enrolments in Australian schools:
Trend in the number of Indigenous students at school
This table shows the key enrolment trends for the non-government schools national
support program. The trends for primary schools exceeded expectations while those for
secondary enrolments were below expectations.
Program 2.3 Schools Support
Program objective
In its national leadership role, the government funded initiatives aimed at improving the
quality of outcomes for all Australian students. In 2009–10, the department delivered a
range of initiatives aimed at enhancing the wellbeing, engagement and participation of
school students. Importantly, Schools Support includes a range of Indigenous education
initiatives that strategically target issues that impact adversely on the educational
50
Annual Report 2009-10
outcomes of Indigenous students. Schools Support also includes grants for national
research and parents’ organisations and awards for academic excellence.
Table 2.7
Key performance indicators for Program 2.3
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
2200a
1696
_b
_
900
1200
2900
2700
10
9
1397
1817c
500
500
Drought Assistance for Schools Measure
Number of schools assisted
National School Chaplaincy Program
Number of new schools approved
Helping Children with Autism Package
Number of teachers and other school staff attending
professional development courses
Number of parents and carers attending workshops and
information sessions
Framework for Open Learning
Number of projects funded
Parliament and Civics Education Rebate
Number of schools receiving the rebate
Australian Student Prize
Number of Australian Student Prizes awarded
a This estimate was published in the 2009–10 Portfolio Additional Estimates Statements.
b No new contracts were expected to be executed during 2009–10.
c Commitments to three schools for this period remain outstanding.
This table shows the performance indicators for the school support program. The number
of schools assisted with drought assistance was below estimation (1696 compared with
2200), while the number of schools receiving the parliament and civics education rebate
was above estimation (1397 to 1817).
Drought Assistance for Schools Measure
Drought Assistance for Schools helped drought-affected families experiencing financial
hardship meet education expenses by assisting with the cost of items such as textbooks,
excursions and extracurricular activities or other items that benefit students and are
related to their schooling. The program provided up to $10 000 per school per year for
government or non-government, rural and remote schools located in exceptional
circumstances declared areas. The reduction in the number of schools assisted from the
estimation provided in the 2010–11 Portfolio Budget Statements is largely a result of a
reduction in the number of exceptional circumstances declared areas at 1 January 2010.
This program concluded on 30 June 2010.
51
Annual Report 2009-10
National School Chaplaincy Program
The National School Chaplaincy Program is an ongoing program that commenced in 2007,
and is scheduled to conclude in December 2011. There were 2698 schools offered funding
agreements in 2007–08, with no new contracts approved after December 2008.
Helping Children with Autism package
The government’s initiatives in the cross-portfolio Helping Children with Autism package
foster productive partnerships between schools and families to improve the educational
outcomes of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The initiatives provide
professional development for teachers and other school staff who are working with
students with ASD and workshops and information sessions for parents and carers of
school-age children with ASD. The shortfall in target numbers over 2008–09 of parents
and carers participating in workshops is due to the lower participation rates in rural and
remote locations. The overall target for the parents and carers initiative is for 5800
parents and carers to participate over 2008–2012. Based on increased participation
trends over 2010, it is estimated that the overall participation target will be met by
February 2012.
Framework for Open Learning Program
The Framework for Open Learning Program (FOLP) supports the integration of ICT in
teaching and learning across Australian schools and the vocational education and training
and higher education sectors. Priorities for activities funded under FOLP are consistent
with the Joint Ministerial Statement on Information and Communications Technologies in
Australian Education and Training: 2008–2011. In 2009–10, administration and priorities
for FOLP evolved in line with the merger of the ministerial companies into Education
Services Australia (ESA). Consequently, FOLP projects and activities are under review
until ESA’s priorities for 2010–11 have been determined in consultation with
stakeholders.
The number of projects funded under the Framework for Open Learning has remained
consistent since 2007. The difference between the estimated and actual number of
projects funded in 2009–10 is due to the need to reassess priorities as a result of the
merger.
National Asian Languages and Studies in Schools Program
The National Asian Languages and Studies in Schools Program (NALSSP) started on 1
January 2009. It supports the goal that by 2020 at least 12 per cent of students will exit
Year 12 with a fluency in Mandarin, Japanese, Indonesian or Korean sufficient for
engaging in trade and commerce in Asia or for university study. There was continued
strong interest and support for all elements of the program in 2009–10. State and
territory governments and non-government education authorities implemented a range of
innovative projects under their three-year NALSSP strategic plans, targeted at increasing
the number of students studying the NALSSP languages and cultures.
In July 2009, Senator the Hon Mark Arbib, Acting Minister for Education, announced that
seven projects would receive $2.75 million in funding under Round One of the Strategic
Collaboration and Partnership Fund. Round Two of the fund opened in March 2010.
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Annual Report 2009-10
In October 2009, former Minister for Education, the Hon Julia Gillard MP, announced that
86 projects, representing 141 schools, would receive $1.8 million in grants as part of
Round One of the Becoming Asia Literate: Grants to Schools element. Round Two of this
element opened in May 2010.
Grants and awards
Australian Students Prize
The Australian Students Prize recognised the academic excellence and achievement of
high-performing secondary students. Five hundred prizes were awarded in 2009, with
each winner receiving $2000 and a certificate. The prizes to each state and territory were
allocated on a pro rata basis according to the Year 12 population for the previous year
and the number of Science, Mathematics and Informatics Olympiad medal winners. In
2009, there were 21 Olympiad medal winners. Those students were automatically eligible
for the Australian Student Prize and were included in the 500 prizes awarded nationally.
Recurrent Service Fees
Recurrent Service Fees (formerly Curriculum Corporation) provides part of the annual
Australian Government contribution to base service fees for the ministerial company
Education Services Australia (ESA). ESA is owned by Australian education ministers and
began operation on 1 March 2010, resulting from the merger of the Curriculum
Corporation and Education.au limited.
ESA aims to provide efficient services across all Australian education sectors and will
provide vital support for the implementation of key government initiatives such as the
Digital Education Revolution and online delivery of the Australian curriculum.
Asia Education Foundation
Grants and awards program funding was provided to the Asia Education Foundation to
further the objectives of the National Statement for Engaging Young Australians with Asia
in Australian Schools. In 2009–10, the foundation conducted Round Two of the Leading
21st Century Schools: Engage with Asia professional learning program for school leaders.
The foundation has increased the range of resources and services provided through its
web portal and has provided support for the Australian curriculum cross-curriculum
priority on Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia. In addition, the foundation has
established new mechanisms for communication nationally through the National Asia
Literacy Roundtable and the National Asia Literacy Network.
National Student Aptitude Test for Tertiary Admission
The National Student Aptitude Test for Tertiary Admission is a pilot program to identify
and trial the use of a student aptitude test or tests to provide universities with a
supplementary mechanism for assessing Year 12 students and other potential candidates
seeking entrance to university.
Stage One of the program, which ran from October 2007 to October 2008, evaluated two
existing aptitude tests: the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) and uniTEST, an
aptitude test for undergraduate admission which assesses generic reasoning and thinking
53
Annual Report 2009-10
skills. Stage Two of the program, which ran from December 2008 to March 2010,
involved the supply, promotion and evaluation of uniTEST.
The final evaluation report, prepared in March 2010 by the Australian Council for
Educational Research (ACER), indicated that while uniTEST scores might be predictive of
university performance, there was low uptake on uniTEST, and little overall impact on
increasing participation by students from low SES backgrounds. The STAT has been used
by each state’s tertiary admissions centre since 1996 and is a popular and robust
‘standalone’ predictor of university performance used by most Australian universities. The
final evaluation report showed that there was strong support for the predictive validity of
STAT and the results were highly correlated with university grades (36 universities took
part in the ACER research). The STAT is typically used by universities for mature-age
entrants.
The final evaluation report noted that it may be useful to use STAT to supplement other
admissions mechanisms in a number of fields such as the sciences.
Supplementary Funding for School Operations
The government provided a total of $4 million each year in 2008, 2009 and 2010 to four
orthodox Jewish schools. These funds are provided to take account of the special
circumstances of families at these schools. Each school receives a proportion of total
funding based on enrolments at the four schools, and the funds are used for operational
expenditure to support the education of students at the schools. There is one final
payment of $4 million to be made under this program in 2011.
Local Schools Working Together pilot program
The aim of the Local Schools Working Together pilot program is to encourage
government, Catholic and independent schools to work together to develop shared
educational facilities that will broaden the benefit of government expenditure on capital
infrastructure. The partnership theme extends to third parties such as local councils or
businesses where the projects may feature broader community benefit.
Funding of $62.5 million was made available over four years, starting in 2008–09, for the
development of 26 shared educational facilities nationwide, including in remote, rural and
regional areas. Twenty-six projects over two funding rounds were approved by the
former Minister for Education, the Hon Julia Gillard MP, on 2 February 2009 and 12
November 2009.
Improving the Practical Component of Teacher Education program
The Improving the Practical Component of Teacher Education program provided an
additional $18.809 million to higher education providers to support high quality
professional experience for teacher education students in 2009 and 2010.
Quality outcomes
Australian Government Quality Teacher Program
The Australian Government Quality Teacher Program supports national leadership in
high-priority areas of teacher professional learning to improve the professional standing
54
Annual Report 2009-10
of schoolteachers and leaders. The program equips teachers with the skills and
knowledge needed for teaching in the 21st century, in line with the aspirations of the
Education Revolution. The program also funds the Australian Institute for Teaching and
School Leadership to undertake its responsibilities in relation to national professional
standards and professional learning for teachers and school leaders. In 2009, the
program assisted 46 517 teachers to access professional development.
From January 2010, the government component of the program’s funding for states and
territories was rolled into the NEA; however, funding for the nongovernment sector
continues.
Values Education
The Values Education program aims to make values a core part of schooling in line with
the National Framework for Values Education in Australian Schools. Funding of $271 000
was committed in 2009–10 to support curriculum resources for all schools, including a
values education website and school-based projects.
Civics and Citizenship Education
The Civics and Citizenship Education program provides assistance to schools for civics
and citizenship education and supports the teaching of history through initiatives such as
the National Schools Constitutional Convention, the National History Challenge, the
Simpson Prize and a national website. On 23–25 March 2010, 123 students selected from
conventions in states and territories attended the National Schools Constitutional
Convention. The eight state and territory 2010 Simpson Prize winners attended Anzac
Day commemorations at Gallipoli in April 2010. Over 4000 students competed in the
2009 National History Challenge. In addition, the Prime Minister’s Prize for Australian
History recognises significant contributions to understanding Australian history and
rewards outstanding achievement in the field of Australian historical research. The prize
is an embossed gold medallion and a tax-free grant of $100 000.
Parliament and Civics Education Rebate
The Parliament and Civics Education Rebate (PACER) provides a subsidy for schools
travelling more than 150 kilometres to the national capital for a civics and citizenship
education excursion. PACER is a demand-driven program and the take-up has continued
to be higher than expected. In 2009, PACER assisted 92 853 students from 1817 schools
to visit the national capital as part of their civics and citizenship education. Rebate
payments of $4.15 million were made to these schools.
Quality Outcomes Program—other initiatives
A range of initiatives delivering high-quality arts experiences and education programs are
funded through this program. The initiatives aim to improve equity of access and
participation in arts education and to increase access to arts education for students in
rural and remote areas. They include support for the work of The Song Room, the
Australian Children’s Music Foundation, Musica Viva in Schools and Bell Shakespeare, as
well as national awards for excellence in school music education and the national Music:
Count Us In event for schools across Australia. In 2009, 354 540 students, teachers and
parents participated in Music: Count Us In and 1306 teachers participated in Music:
Count Us In professional development courses. In 2009, over 170 000 students in more
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Annual Report 2009-10
than 250 schools took part in The Song Room’s Enhanced Learning through the Arts
Project.
Innovation in Science, Technology and Maths Education
In 2009–10, the government funded a number of nationally significant projects to
advance school science and maths education and to support the implementation of the
Australian Curriculum for science and mathematics. Under the Innovation in Science,
Technology and Maths Education element of the Quality Outcomes Program, a total of
$2.8 million was invested in the following initiatives in 2009–10:
●
The Science by Doing project, led by the Australian Academy of Science, establishes
professional learning communities and develops digital professional teaching and
learning resources for junior high school science teachers.
●
The Primary Connections: Linking Science with Literacy, led by the Australian
Academy of Science, improves primary science education by supporting teacher
professional learning and developing teaching resources that align with the draft
Australian curriculum.
●
The Scientists in Schools Program, managed by CSIRO Education, partners
classroom teachers with scientists and mathematicians. The program is stimulating
and increasing students’ interest in science and maths, promoting school science
and maths education and broadening awareness of the types and variety of science
and maths related careers. In 2009–10, the number of Australian schools
participating in the program increased from 995 to 1881.
The following two projects, funded under the Quality Outcomes Program—other initiatives
undertook activities in 2009–10 aimed at improving school science and maths education.
●
The Science and Technology Education Leveraging Relevance project, managed by
the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering, received $2
million. The project is engaging Years 9 and 10 students in an inquiry-based
learning approach to the teaching of science through the context of renewable
energy. In 2009–10, 182 secondary schools participated in stage one of the project.
●
The Improving Mathematics Education in Schools project, managed by the
Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute, received $2 million. It aims to provide
an integrated approach to increasing mathematics achievement, especially in low
SES communities, develop innovative resources to support the national mathematics
curriculum and raise awareness of career opportunities in occupations and
professions requiring mathematical skills.
Asia Literacy Ambassadors—Partnering Businesses and Schools
The objective of the Asia Literacy Ambassador—Partnering Businesses and Schools
project is to promote Asia literacy in schools, and stimulate and increase student interest
in Asia. The project provides Asia-skilled professionals to act as Asia Literacy
Ambassadors and work with secondary schools nationally. The focus of the ambassadors’
relationships with schools is to inspire and motivate students, teachers and parents in the
teaching and learning of Asian languages and Asian studies. Eighteen school–business
partnerships have been established.
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Annual Report 2009-10
National School Drug Education Strategy
The National School Drug Education Strategy has fostered capacity in school communities
to provide safe and supportive school environments for all Australian school students and
promoted a nationally consistent approach to school drug education across all education
sectors. The strategy has supported the development of effective, evidence-based
prevention and early intervention school drug education resources to support schools to
respond to, and effectively manage, drug issues.
Northern Territory Emergency Response
School Nutrition Program
This program is a continuation of the government’s contribution towards improving
school student engagement and attendance by delivering a breakfast and lunch program
to school-age children in schools in communities covered by the Northern Territory
Emergency Response. The program also provides job opportunities and training for local
Indigenous people living in remote communities.
Teacher Housing
The Australian Government has provided $11 million for the construction of at least 22
additional teacher houses under the Closing the Gap in the Northern Territory National
Partnership Agreement.
As a result of pooling of Northern Territory Department of Education and Training
(NTDET) and Australian Government funding, NTDET will construct 47 houses. At 30 June
2010 the NTDET had 20 houses completed to lock-up stage; seven houses near
completion; and eight houses between 50 per cent and 70 per cent completed.
Expansion of the Enhancing Education elements
The Australian Government has provided $45.7 million over three years to Northern
Territory education providers to develop career pathways for Indigenous staff, increase
the number of Indigenous staff with education qualifications and provide support and
programs to enable teachers and students in remote school communities achieve
improved outcomes in literacy and numeracy.
Implementation of this work is being progressed in conjunction with the Smarter Schools
NPs. Over 2009–10, this funding has supported:
●
the establishment of five Critical Friends consultants to enhance school improvement
planning processes
●
the establishment of a Remote Improvement team to work intensively with targeted
government schools
●
the commencement of a trial of inclusive leadership models in eight remote schools
●
the employment of one Remote Indigenous Education Manager to work closely with
school leaders and facilitate enhanced community partnerships in education, with
five more positions expected to be filled in regional locations
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
the continuation of a Remote Specialist Support team working with five remote
Catholic schools
●
a specific selection process for the recruitment of quality teachers to remote schools
●
enhanced services and support for students with conductive hearing loss in 33
targeted remote schools
●
the establishment of an Indigenous and Remote Workforce Development team and a
Quality Remote Teaching Service team.
Expansion of the Enhancing Education elements—Kimberley Sound Amplification
project
Chronic suppurative otitis media is a serious problem in Aboriginal communities in the
Kimberley (Western Australia). On any one day, in a Kimberley classroom, up to 65 per
cent of Aboriginal students can experience intermittent hearing loss. Hearing loss has a
life-long impact and often starts early, impeding speech and language development.
Acknowledging the links between hearing and early literacy acquisition, the Australian
Government committed $1.3 million under the Indigenous Education (Targeted
Assistance) Act 2000 to support the Kimberley Sound Amplification project. This crosssectoral project has provided sound amplification equipment for all classrooms in
Kimberley schools in the government, Catholic and independent sectors.
The project commenced in June 2009 and is due for completion in July 2010 with sound
amplification equipment operating in all 458 Kimberley classrooms.
Sound amplification equipment has been installed in all Aboriginal Independent schools
and Catholic Education schools. The sound field ensures that all students can hear
teacher instructions and enables students with hearing impairment to participate in
classroom activities. The provision of two compatible microphones allows the teacher and
the Aboriginal assistant to teach in tandem, or to work in different parts of the room,
with a consistent noise level across the class.
Already teachers are reporting noticeable improvements in student engagement in the
classroom. Many have reported that students are misbehaving less and are better able to
focus on in-class activity. Additionally, teachers no longer have to shout, as the sound
field allows them to interact with all students at normal speaking volume, despite
external and ambient noises. With less stress on their voice and more engaged students,
the teachers have a more enjoyable teaching experience.
Training in the use of the equipment and in the importance of personal hygiene and
nutrition was provided to all Kimberley schools by the Western Australian Department of
Education and was very well received by the teachers.
The Australian Indigenous Education Foundation
The Australian Government’s $20 million investment over three years (2009–10 to 2011–
12) in the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation will support the delivery of its
Indigenous Scholarship Programme and help it raise a further $20 million from external
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Annual Report 2009-10
sources to bring total funds to $40 million. This endowment fund will deliver scholarships
for Indigenous secondary students around Australia to achieve Year 12 attainment.
In 2009, the foundation received $12.5 million in government funds, nearly $1 million in
donations and over $4 million in pledges from external sources. In this first year of
operation, the foundation distributed $478 124 from government funds to five Foundation
Partner Schools in Sydney for 43 students, including two Year 12 graduates.
The Parental and Community Engagement program
The Parental and Community Engagement program (PaCE) is a community-driven
program which focuses on the development and implementation of creative and
innovative approaches to improve the educational outcomes of Indigenous school
students through enhancing Indigenous parental engagement with schools and education
providers.
In 2009–10:
●
181 single or multiple year PaCE projects were approved nationally
●
$19.13 million in funding was approved for projects in 2009–10 (a further $15.1
million was already committed for projects until December 2012)
●
over 18 500 parents of Indigenous students, 7800 community members and 5400
other participants were targeted.
Community Festivals for Education Engagement program
The Community Festivals for Education Engagement program aims to encourage
Indigenous students to attend school regularly, complete Year 12 and pursue further
educational and employment opportunities. The program’s events also promote a greater
understanding of contemporary and traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
cultures. In 2009, five organisations produced 13 festival events in New South Wales, the
Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and Victoria. There
were 7750 student participants in these events.
Community Festivals for Education Engagement Program—Townsville Vibe Alive
Festival
On 26 to 27 May 2010, DEEWR's Townsville employees rolled up their sleeves to help
support the Townsville Vibe Alive event. Vibe Alive is a two-day festival for Indigenous
students, particularly those from rural and remote communities.
This year, over 2000 students from the Townsville region attended the event. They
participated in educational and health activities, music, performing arts and sports. They
also attended a careers expo and got the chance to meet and speak with Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander role models.
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Annual Report 2009-10
While the event is an action-packed two days of fun, it also conveys a serious message—
stay at school, finish Year 12, and live a positive and healthy lifestyle.
Townsville Vibe Alive was a great opportunity for DEEWR employees to speak directly
with students, parents and teachers about the educational and employment opportunities
for Indigenous students. It is a very practical way to connect with communities and give
them the information and access to all the programs that are available to students
through DEEWR.
Vibe Alive events are funded under DEEWR's Community Festivals for Education
Engagement Program. In 2010, a total of 13 events will be staged throughout Australia.
You can learn more about the program at
www.deewr.gov.au/Indigenous/Schooling/Programs/Pages/%20CommunityFestivals.aspx
.
Expansion of intensive literacy and numeracy programs for underachieving
Indigenous students
The Australian Government’s focus on improving literacy and numeracy outcomes for
underachieving Indigenous students has seen 16 Closing the Gap projects established at
a range of sites across Australia. Projects seek to contribute to the evolving evidence
base of what works. A common example of this evidence-based improvement is targeted
teacher professional development. For example, in one project, teachers and Indigenous
Education Workers participate in intensive learning, enabling them to produce culturally
appropriate and inclusive resources which will be familiar to Indigenous students, building
on their existing knowledge and giving them an early taste of success. Further projects
will be funded during 2010.
Personalised Learning Plans
The government supported the development of Personalised Learning Plans for
Indigenous students by providing resources for teachers. These resources are designed
to assist teachers to engage with individual students and their parents, to capture
student aspirations, implement appropriate personalised teaching and learning strategies
and monitor student progress against targeted learning goals.
Supporting remote schools—additional teachers for the Northern Territory
The Australian Government worked with Northern Territory education providers to fund
up to 200 additional teachers in schools in remote communities.
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Annual Report 2009-10
At 30 June 2010, a total of 140.5 full-time equivalent teachers had been recruited,
deployed and retained. Total expenditure is $107.8 million from 2009–10 to 2012–13.
In addition, the Northern Territory Government has identified savings from its allocation
over the lifetime of the measure which will be used to fund the construction of at least 22
additional teacher houses. A shortage of suitable accommodation remains a major
challenge to the successful completion of the Additional Teachers measure.
Effectiveness indicators
Table 2.8
Effectiveness indicators for Program 2.3
Performance indicator
Estimate Actual
Apparent retention rate of full-time students
from Year 7/8 to Year 12
Chart 2.4
74.7%
76.0%
Apparent retention rate of full-time students from Years 7/8 to Year
12, 2004 to 2009
Source: ABS 2009, Schools, Australia, 2009, cat. no. 4221.0.
Table 2.9
Full-time school and preschool enrolments for Indigenous students
Student type
Indigenous school students
Indigenous preschool Students
2007
2008
2009
147 181
151 668
155 533
9627
10 014
10 687
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Annual Report 2009-10
Source: ABS 2009, Schools, Australia, 2009, cat. no. 4221.0, and the National Preschool Census, 2009
Summary Report.
The number of Indigenous students continues to increase, with Indigenous school
enrolments increasing by 5.7 per cent and Indigenous preschool enrolments increasing
by 11 per cent. A large portion of this year’s increase in preschool enrolments occurred in
New South Wales, where enrolments increased by over 300.
Program 2.4 Trade Training
Program objective
Trade training is an important element of the government’s workforce development
agenda and will help address national skills shortages in traditional trades and emerging
industries by improving the relevance and responsiveness of trade training programs in
secondary schools.
In addition, trade training will contribute to increasing the proportion of students
achieving at least a Year 12 or equivalent Certificate II qualification to 90 per cent by
2015 as agreed by COAG in April 2009. Trade training in schools provides students with
access to high quality, relevant education and training opportunities that continue to
engage them and encourage them to complete their studies.
Table 2.10 Key performance indicators for Program 2.4
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
2762
3163
302a
301
92a
92
Australian Technical Colleges
Number of student enrolments
Trade Training Centres in Schools Program
Number of schools funded
Number of projects funded
a This estimate was published in the 2009–10 Portfolio Additional Estimates Statements.
This table shows the key performance indicators in trade trading programs. The number
of student enrolments in Australian Technical Colleges was above expectation (3163
compared with 2762).
Australian Technical Colleges
As at the Australian Technical College (ATC) October 2009 Census, there were 3163
students enrolled in the 24 colleges operating in regional and metropolitan areas across
all states of Australia. The Australian Technical Colleges program lapsed on 31 December
2009 and all colleges were integrated into the broader education and training systems in
their relevant state or territory. All former ATC students were provided with an
opportunity to complete their ATC programs under the new arrangements.
Trade Training Centres in Schools Program
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Annual Report 2009-10
Funding has been provided through an annual national competitive application process to
build or upgrade training facilities for secondary school students. In round two of the
program, $384.2 million was approved for 92 projects involving 301 schools. The actual
number of schools funded reflects the withdrawal of one school from a successful Round
Two cluster application.
Bindoon Trade Training Centre
The Brother Norman Tuppin Trade Training Centre was officially opened in May 2010.
'Our students now have a modern facility to study both engineering and construction
certificates,' said the centre's principal, Damian Wallis.
The Catholic Agricultural College—Bindoon, in Western Australia, is a Year 7 to Year 12
coeducational secondary school for day and residential students. The school is located in
the Chittering Valley's rural hinterland about an hour's drive north of Perth and about
seven kilometres from the rapidly growing town of Bindoon.
The school is set on a 3300 hectare working farm with cattle, sheep, wheat and other
crops. The student cohort includes a number of Indigenous students and students from
the rural and remote Kimberley area. Education at the school is a balance of secondary
curriculum and on-and off-the-job vocational training that suits the learning style of the
students.
The Trade Training Centre proposal submitted by the college demonstrated robust
partnerships and outlined a strong student support and pastoral care strategy including
increased literacy and numeracy programs and career and transition advice. Because the
proposal aimed to address current skill shortages in the engineering, construction,
automotive and agriculture industries and provide increased employment opportunities, it
had strong community support.
The school received $1.5 million under the Australian Government's Trade Training
Centres in Schools Program to refurbish and fit out an existing building with state-of-theart equipment for use by the school and wider community
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Annual Report 2009-10
Program 2.5 Digital Education Revolution
Program objective
The government has embarked on a major school reform agenda to support quality
teaching and school leadership, improve educational outcomes for disadvantaged young
Australians, promote world-class curriculum and assessment, and strengthen
transparency.
The reach of each of these initiatives is supported and extended by the $2.4 billion Digital
Education Revolution (DER) which aims to contribute sustainable and meaningful change
to teaching and learning in Australian schools to prepare students for further education,
training and jobs of the future. The DER recognises the importance of ICT in schooling to
help Australian students acquire the knowledge and skills they need to participate
effectively in a globalised economy.
For more than a decade, governments and school communities around Australia have
been working to harness the power of ICT to improve educational opportunities, boost
outcomes and energise the learning experience.
With computers that are networked using high-speed broadband connections, teachers
everywhere can create new learning materials which combine curriculum resources,
information from across the world, concrete everyday examples and their own insights.
They can share with each other, collaborate and find new ways to make ideas and
information understandable and meaningful to their students. With the same networked
computers, students can learn to create, innovate, think critically and work in teams to
solve problems.
Through the DER, the government is working with jurisdictions, government and nongovernment schools sectors and VET and higher education sectors to support the
deployment of technology enriched learning environments.
All state and territory governments and non-government education authorities have now
agreed to a national, coordinated and collaborative partnership approach to developing
and implementing the DER through National Partnership and funding agreements.
Through this joint approach, all secondary schools now have access to funding for ICT
equipment to achieve high-quality learning outcomes as part of the government’s
education reform agenda.
Over 300 000 computers have been installed since the commencement of the National
Secondary School Computer Fund. The first round of the fund concluded on 30 June
2010. This round targeted schools most in need of investment in ICT which had computer
to student ratios of 1:8 or worse. By 30 June 2010, the 896 schools targeted in Round
One achieved a computer to student ratio of 1:2, dramatically increasing access to ICT
for students in Years 9 to 12. The schools will continue to receive funding to achieve a
1:1 ratio by the end of 2011.
The government has also committed $80 million to a high-speed broadband network for
the VET sector, as part of the government’s response to the 2020 Summit.
Implementation of the Vocational Education Broadband Network (VEN) is being closely
coordinated with the government’s broadband initiatives, including the National
Broadband Network and broadband commitment under the DER. In the first instance, a
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Annual Report 2009-10
national network connecting state and territory TAFE networks will be established. It is
intended that school authorities will be able to connect to the VEN, establishing, for the
first time, the capacity for TAFEs and schools to network nationally.
The government’s announcement on 18 February 2010 to provide funding of $40 million
through the Digital Strategy for Teachers and School Leaders will help teachers and
school leaders achieve proficiency in ICT and embed these skills across curriculum and
teaching practices.
Table 2.11 Key performance indicators for Program 2.5
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
—
—
2900
2900
National Secondary School Computer Fund3
Number of schools assisted
a KPIs were not reported in the 2009–10 PBS, as the DER had moved to a National Partnership and all
secondary schools would benefit from the National Secondary School Computer Fund.
Program 2.6 National Action Plan on Literacy and Numeracy
Program objective
The National Action Plan on Literacy and Numeracy focuses on the key areas of teaching,
leadership and the effective use of student performance information to deliver sustained
improvement in literacy and numeracy outcomes for all students, especially those who
are falling behind. In addition, there is a particular priority on delivering accelerated
improvement in literacy and numeracy outcomes for Indigenous students. The 2008–09
Budget announced funding of $577.4 million over four years for the delivery of this plan.
The key elements of the plan are National Partnership Agreement for Literacy and
Numeracy, including strategic research initiatives, and Literacy and Numeracy Pilots in
low SES communities.
Table 2.12 Key performance indicators for Program 2.6
Smarter Schools - National Partnership for Literacy and Numeracy
Number of schools/students assisted
395 171 students across 1022 schools
(2009-10 to 2011-12)
Trend analysis
The first year of the national literacy and numeracy assessment was 2008. The results of
NAPLAN over 2008 and 2009 indicate that while some gains have been made, there
remains a gap between the percentage of Indigenous and nonIndigenous students at or
above national minimum standards in reading, writing and numeracy. Although the gap
reduced in 14 of the 20 NAPLAN domains and year levels from 2008 to 2009, any real
trends can only be reported over a span of three years or more.
The government has also committed, through the National Partnership Agreement on
Literacy and Numeracy, to establishing an evidence base of effective literacy and
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Annual Report 2009-10
numeracy practices. The evidence base will include rigorously reviewed literacy and
numeracy research, in addition to strategies and approaches that have demonstrated
improvements in student literacy and numeracy outcomes, particularly for those who are
at risk of falling behind. Consistent with the NP, the evidence base will be developed in
partnership with state and territory government and non-government education
authorities, including practitioners.
States and territories have developed trajectories of improvement for all Indigenous
students to meet the COAG target of halving the gap in Indigenous reading, writing and
numeracy by 2018. These trajectories, endorsed by ministers in April 2010, will be used
by the COAG Reform Council to measure progress towards halving the gap.
The initiatives of the National Action Plan for Literacy and Numeracy complement the
Indigenous education activities funded under Program 2.3 Schools Support.
National Partnership Agreement on Literacy and Numeracy
The $540 million Smarter Schools—National Partnership Agreement on Literacy and
Numeracy (NP) is the centrepiece of the National Action Plan. The NP will provide $500
million to states and territories ($150 million in 2009–10, to facilitate reform; $350
million in 2011–12, to reward reform). An amount of $40 million has been retained to
implement evidence-based initiatives to drive accelerated improvement in literacy and
numeracy outcomes.
The NP commenced in 2009 and implementation is underway at the school, system and
national levels. Final implementation plans were signed by the former Deputy Prime
Minister, the Hon Julia Gillard MP and her state and territory counterparts. Those
documents are publicly available on the DEEWR www.deewr.gov.au and Federal Financial
Relations www.federalfinancialrelations.gov.au websites. State and territory annual
reports (for the 2009 calendar year) covering progress against key milestones have also
been published on the DEEWR website. All schools undertaking NP activity in 2010 are
expected to publish a school plan on their website. The plan identifies key priorities,
reform activities and investment taking place. Of the 1989 schools identified by
jurisdictions as beginning their participation in 2009–10, 1256 (63 per cent) have
published their plan.
The second major element of the plan is the Literacy and Numeracy Pilots in low SES
communities. The Australian Government has invested $41.3 million in 30 Literacy and
Numeracy Pilot projects, operating in over 400 schools nationally. These pilots are
trialling new approaches to improving literacy and numeracy strategies in schools. A
national evaluation of the pilots is underway and its findings will assist all educational
authorities and the government to further the literacy and numeracy reform agenda in
addition to informing the evidence base of effective practices.
Effectiveness indicators
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Annual Report 2009-10
Table 2.13 Effectiveness indicators for Program 2.6
Year 3
Year 5
Reading Numeracy
Year 7
Reading Numeracy
Year 9
Reading Numeracy
Reading Numeracy
Percentage of students at or above the
national minimum standard in reading
and numeracy
93.7
94.0
91.7
94.2
94.0
94.8
92.2
95.0
Percentage of Indigenous students at or
above the reading and numeracy
national Minimum Standards
75.1
74.0
66.7
74.2
73.2
75.8
67.0
75.0
Source: MCEEDYA 2009, National Assessment Program—Literacy and Numeracy: Achievement in Reading,
Writing, Language Conventions and Numeracy.
This table shows that the percentage of Indigenous students at or above the reading and
numeracy national minimum standards is lower than the overall success rate for Years 3,
5, 7 and 9. (66.7-75.8% compared with 91.7-95.0%).
Program 2.7 Building the Education Revolution
Program objective
As part of the government’s $42 billion Nation Building—Economic Stimulus Plan, $16.2
billion is being invested over four years through Building the Education Revolution (BER)
program.
The objectives of the BER were to provide economic stimulus through the rapid
construction of school infrastructure and to build learning environments to help children,
families and communities participate in activities that will support achievement, develop
learning potential and bring communities together.
The BER program has contributed significantly to the value of non-residential building
approvals at a crucial time in the aftermath of the global downturn.
Over the 10 months to April 2010, the BER program contributed $12.5 billion to the
seasonally adjusted values of Australian Bureau of Statistics Building Approvals. The
department estimates that the program represented around 32 per cent of the total value
of non-residential building approvals (in seasonally adjusted terms) over the year to April
2010.
The employment supported by the program and the government’s other stimulus
measures is helping to reduce the unemployment rate and the build-up of long-term
unemployment. Treasury has estimated that the overall impact of the economic stimulus
plan, of which the BER is the single largest element, is support for 200 000 jobs.
The stimulus objective of BER required education authorities to put in place procurement
and construction models that could achieve far more rapid construction activity than has
typically been achieved under earlier programs. Notwithstanding the need for accelerated
construction activity, the BER guidelines also sought the achievement of value for money.
During 2009–10, the question of whether value for money was being achieved through
BER was subject to considerable debate and scrutiny.
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Annual Report 2009-10
The Primary Schools for the 21st Century element of the BER program was the subject of
a performance audit by the Australian National Audit Office and an inquiry by the Senate
Education, Employment and Workplace Relations References Committee. The department
provided advice and evidence to these two major accountability exercises.
In April 2010, the government announced that it would establish the independent BER
Implementation Taskforce, headed by Mr Brad Orgill. The taskforce came into operation
on 3 May 2010 and is scheduled to make an interim report to the Minister during August
2010. It is examining both individual school complaints as well as the systemic methods
used by education authorities to implement the BER. The taskforce has the benefit of
legal, construction, quantity surveying, business and other expertise to help it do its
work. Several departmental staff have been seconded to the taskforce to assist it in its
deliberations.
The BER is underpinned by a strong partnership approach between the Australian
Government, state and territory governments and non-government education authorities.
The three elements of the BER are:
●
Primary Schools for the 21st Century—$14.1 billion for long-term investment to
build or upgrade large-scale infrastructure in all primary schools, special schools and
primary components of Kindergarten to Year 12 schools within the government and
non-government sectors. Under the program, funding is available for new buildings
such as libraries, multipurpose halls, covered outdoor learning areas, and
classrooms or for major refurbishment of existing facilities.
●
Science and Language Centres for 21st Century Secondary Schools—$821.8 million
for the construction of around 500 new, or refurbishment of existing, science
laboratories or language learning centres in secondary schools, government and
non-government, that demonstrated, through a competitive process, a need for the
project and a readiness and capacity to complete it.
●
National School Pride Program—$1.2 billion for all schools, government and nongovernment, for funding for minor capital works and maintenance projects such as
refurbishment of buildings; construction of fixed shade structures and covered
outdoor learning areas, upgrades of sporting grounds and facilities and
infrastructure support for students with disabilities or special needs.
Table 2.14 Key performance indicators for Program 2.7
Performance indicator
Estimatea
Actual
70.07%
70.07%
6816
6816
377
377
Building the Education Revolution
Government—percentage of eligible schools receiving funding
through Primary Schools for the 21st Century
Number of schools receiving funding through:
National School Pride Program
Science and Language Centres for 21st Century Secondary
Schools
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Non-government—percentage of eligible schools receiving
funding through Primary Schools for the 21st Century
National School Pride Program
Science and Language Centres for 21st Century Secondary
Schools
Estimatea
Actual
28.24%
28.24%
2679
2679
160
169
a The figures are based on 2009 data sources and represent the percentage of the total number of schools
eligible for funding under the Primary Schools for the 21st Century program.
This table shows the key performance indicators for the Building the Education Revolution
(BER) program. In all categories the actual results met or exceeded the estimates.
Trend analysis
Since the commencement of the BER in February 2009, 23 810 projects have been
approved across the three elements of the program, with 99.5 per cent of these projects
at or beyond the commencement stage and 61 per cent at the completion stage.
Building the Education Revolution
Primary Schools for the 21st Century
At 30 June 2010, of the 10 551 approved projects, 99 per cent had started, 88 per cent
were under construction and 19 per cent had been completed. The majority of projects
are due to be completed by March 2011; however, following the government’s decision to
rephase a proportion of Primary Schools for the 21st Century funding, a small number of
projects are forecast for completion in the first half of 2011–12.
Science and Language Centres for 21st Century Secondary Schools
At 30 June 2010, of the 537 approved projects, 60 per cent were under construction and
30 per cent had been completed. Project variations were approved to extend completion
dates due to a range of circumstances.
National School Pride Program
At 30 June 2010, 98 per cent of the 12 722 approved projects had been completed.
Variations were approved to extend the completion date of the remaining projects, as
their finalisation is contingent on the completion of major works under Primary Schools
for the 21st Century or a Science and Language Centre for 21st Century Secondary
Schools project.
A Building the Education Revolution project: an energy-efficient environmental
learning centre
On 28 May 2010, work began on a new $3 million, six-star energy-efficient
environmental learning centre at Gold Creek School in the Australian Capital Territory.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Gold Creek School provides education to students from Kindergarten to Year 10 across
two campuses in North Canberra. The junior campus is to receive a new environment
centre funded through the Primary Schools for the 21st Century element of the Building
the Education Revolution program.
The new centre will use the latest techniques to save energy and water. The
environmentally conscious approach starts from the ground up; the building will be
constructed with low-energy production bricks, plasterboard made largely of recycled
materials and certified renewable plantation timber.
The building aims to achieve a six-star design certification from the Green Building
Council of Australia. Rainwater will be captured, stored and used for garden irrigation and
toilets. Natural cross-flow ventilation will cool the building. Solar power will be generated
and excess energy will be returned to the grid. The school will also be paid for excess
energy under the ACT electricity feed-in tariff.
School Principal Sue Jose is excited about the opportunities the new building will bring to
the school. ‘The new centre will give students a place to learn “hands-on” about
protecting the environment and growing and caring for plants in the gardens and orchard
surrounding the centre,’ Ms Jose said.
The centre will include two standard classrooms and a special ‘wet classroom’ with a setup similar to a science classroom. The school plans to use the wet area for a variety of
purposes, including to propagate plants for the surrounding gardens. Internal doors can
be opened, creating a presentation space useful for both students and the community.
Gardening groups are expected to use the space for workshops and demonstrations.
The local community will be heavily involved with the school students in planting and
caring for the extensive community gardens that will surround the new building.
‘Our school already has an Environment Club and the curriculum has an environment and
sustainability focus. The new centre will add a practical element to the students’ learning.
Year 4 students will be located in the Environment Centre and will be encouraged to
promote sustainable practices and environmental awareness across the school,’ Ms Jose
said.
The Gold Creek School’s project is the first in the southern hemisphere to register for the
International Living Building Challenge, which aims to promote truly sustainable design
and construction practices around the globe.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Program 2.8 Smarter Schools—Low SES School Communities
National Partnership
Program objective
The Smarter Schools—Low Socio-Economic Status (SES) School Communities National
Partnership (NP) provides $1.5 billion over seven years (2008–09 to 2014–15) to
facilitate a range of within school and out-of-school reforms to address the learning
needs and wellbeing of students in low SES school communities.
The NP is supporting nationally significant reforms that aim to better equip students for
further education, workforce participation and civic responsibilities. It will contribute to a
range of social policy objectives, including addressing social exclusion and Indigenous
disadvantage.
Reforms are being progressively implemented by government, Catholic and independent
schools from 2009. Participating schools are developing school level plans detailing their
NP reform activities and plans are being progressively published.
The effectiveness in achieving the intended result of Outcome 2 will be measured by the
performance indicators set out in the National Education Agreement. These include the
proportion of Indigenous and low SES children enrolled in and attending school and the
literacy and numeracy achievement of Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 Indigenous and low SES
students in national testing.
Table 2.15 Key performance indicators for Program 2.8
Estimate
Actual
Smarter Schools-Low Socio-economic Status School Communities
National Partnership
Number of schools assisted
705
1024
This table shows the key performance indicators for the Smarter Schools Low SocioEconomic Status (SES) School Communities National Partnership (NP) program. The
actual number of schools exceeded the estimate (1024 to 705).
Smarter Schools—Low Socio-economic Status School Communities National
Partnership
Almost 1700 schools (approximately 13 per cent of the student population) are expected
to participate in the NP across Australia over the life of the NP. Reforms are being
progressively implemented by schools with an estimated 1024 schools participating by
the end of 2010.
Program 2.9 Smarter Schools—Improving Teacher Quality National
Partnership
Program objective
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Annual Report 2009-10
The Australian Government has committed $550 million to the Smarter Schools—
Improving Teacher Quality National Partnership (NP). The government recognises that
teacher quality is the single greatest in-school influence on student engagement and
achievement and that improving teacher quality requires both strong school leadership
from principals and new approaches to teacher recruitment, retention and reward.
Under this NP, Australian governments are implementing a range of nationally significant
and sustainable reforms targeting critical points in the teacher ‘life cycle’ to attract, train,
place, develop and retain quality teachers and leaders in our schools and classrooms.
These measures are supported by other reforms, including those that will develop
effective workforce planning and support, improve teacher remuneration structures,
increase school-based decision making and improve teacher education and professional
development. These reforms also provide a platform for raising student performance and
will support other schooling reforms targeting low SES school communities and literacy
and numeracy outcomes.
The bilateral agreements and implementation plans agreed between the Commonwealth
and the states and territories set out the agreed facilitation payments and state coinvestments to be made in support of these reforms. The states will also be rewarded for
improvements through implementing reforms, such as those that improve teacher
remuneration structures, increase school-based decision making and improve support for
teachers in ‘hard-to-staff’ and disadvantaged schools.
The Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership—formerly Teaching
Australia—was established in 2010 in response to the unfolding reform agenda. The
institute has responsibility for rigorous national professional standards and for fostering
and driving high-quality professional development for teachers and school leaders,
working collaboratively across jurisdictions and through engagement with key
professional bodies. It will also guide reform in areas of the NP that will benefit from
national coordination.
This NP also includes funding for the development and introduction of additional
pathways into teaching. The objectives of these reforms include:
●
attracting the best and brightest graduates into teaching
●
attracting people into teaching who have skills and qualifications in subject areas
that are in short supply (including mid-career entrants)
●
introducing combined study and employment arrangements to better meet the
needs of beginning teachers and schools.
The Teach for Australia initiative is a new pathway into teaching for high-achieving
university graduates. The program attracts those who may have been destined for an
alternative career path, by offering a unique combination of university study and
employment-based teacher training. Following a six week intensive residential training
period, graduates undertake a two-year placement (reduced load) at a disadvantaged
secondary school while completing a Postgraduate Diploma of Teaching with the
University of Melbourne. They are supported by a dedicated educational adviser, and with
the guidance of an experienced teacher mentor specifically trained for their role. Fortyfive graduates commenced in 13 Victorian government secondary schools on 1 February
2010.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Recognising that principals lead the implementation of the education agenda at local
school level and are therefore critical to the success of school education reforms, the
Australian Government held a forum for principals (A National Conversation with
Principals) in Canberra on 10 and 11 November 2009.
A cross-section of 146 principals from all school types (primary, secondary and
combined), sectors (government, Catholic and independent) and locations (metropolitan,
regional and remote) in each state and territory attended the forum, along with 12
representatives from professional and other associations.
Delegates had the opportunity to talk directly to the Hon Julia Gillard MP, former Deputy
Prime Minister, about the reforms the government was pursuing in education, the
difference the reforms would make for their schools and their students, and how the
government could help school principals lift educational outcomes for all students.
Principals reported that the forum was a valuable opportunity to build their leadership
capacity and broaden their understanding of national education issues.
Shaun Isbister, Teach for Australia Associate 2010
Shaun Isbister is one of 45 outstanding university graduates selected from a field of over
700 applicants from across Australia to take on the challenging role of 'Associate' in the
Teach for Australia initiative.
Shaun is among the initiative's first intake of Associates who commenced a twoyear
employment-based teacher training program in one of the 13 Victorian government
secondary schools participating in the initiative.
Shaun is now teaching Year 11 Business Management, Industry and Enterprise, Personal
Development and Pastoral Care at Mill Park Secondary College in Melbourne's northern
suburbs. He is also attending training at the University of Melbourne and studying hard to
complete a postgraduate qualification in teaching. While he studies, he will develop his
teaching practice with the support of an experienced in-school teacher mentor, and will
learn to maximise connections between teaching theory and practice with the help of an
educational adviser. Throughout this time, Shaun remains committed to developing his
teaching for the benefit of his students.
'I love every moment in front of my classes; even the challenging moments as these
provide great opportunities to improve,' said Shaun. 'One highlight came in my first week
with my Industry and Enterprise group. A lot of kids in this group seemed to lack a
positive self-image, so I gave them a test that profiled their top 24 strengths (no
weaknesses!) and they loved it. I could really see an immediate difference in the attitude
of three or four students and all credit to them, they continue to develop and thrive.'
Shaun lists another highlight as a conversation he had with a student and his mother
about how much the student was enjoying Shaun's class. 'They both had some very kind
words to say and it was actually quite touching. You do not get that kind of reward in any
other job; it makes all the time and effort worthwhile,' said Shaun. 'I think the biggest
thing so far has been being able to say to students, 'Hey, I've been through this. It isn't
easy and it will take a lot of work, but if you want to do it you can.' This seemed to
resonate with them along with my class motto—results, not excuses.'
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Annual Report 2009-10
Kerryn Sandford is Shaun's educational adviser. She meets with him regularly, observes
lessons, provides feedback and supports him in making the links between the theory and
practice of teaching.
'He is very driven, highly motivated and is good at reflecting upon and 'un-packing' his
assumptions. The students respond to his enthusiasm and persistence,' said Kerryn.
'Watching his practice improve over the past six months confirms that he is well on the
way to becoming a highly effective teacher.'
Teach for Australia attracts people like Shaun who are motivated to make a difference
through education to improving the outcomes of students from disadvantaged school
communities. Shaun witnessed first-hand the difficulties students face in achieving
academic excellence when he attended one of Melbourne's 20 most under-achieving
schools based on VCE results. 'I feel Teach for Australia will give me the knowledge and
skills to make a difference to educational disadvantage,' Shaun stated in his application
to join the initiative.
On completion of Teach for Australia, Shaun will join other committed alumni who are
expected to become exceptional leaders in society and continue to work towards
educational equity and social reform.
Program 2.10 Youth Support
Program objective
The government is committed to ensuring that all young people make a successful
transition from school to further education and training or work. There is a clear link
between Year 12 or equivalent attainment and improved social and economic outcomes
for young people. Evidence shows that current Year 12 or equivalent attainment rates
have not increased significantly over the past decade.
Several elements of the $623 million National Partnership on Youth Attainment and
Transitions came into effect on 1 January 2010. This included the consolidation of
previous youth transitions programs into the following four new elements, all of which
were developed in consultation with the states and territories:
●
Maximising Engagement, Attainment and Successful Transitions—$106 million in
funding to the states and territories to support the implementation of reforms in the
areas of multiple learning pathways, career development and mentoring.
●
National Career Development—$47 million in funding administered by the Australian
Government for the development of resources that will be of most benefit to all
jurisdictions if undertaken at the national level (for example, the Job Guide and
myfuture.edu.au).
●
School Business Community Partnership Brokers—$183 million in funding for a
program that will improve community and business engagement with schools to
extend learning beyond the classroom, increase student engagement, deepen
learning experiences, lift attainment and improve educational outcomes, with
providers in place over 108 service regions from January 2010.
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
Youth Connections—$287 million in funding for a program which will provide an
improved safety net for youth at risk through tailored case management and
support to help them reconnect with education or training and build resilience, skills
and attributes that promote positive choices and wellbeing, with providers in place in
113 service areas from January 2010.
Between July and December 2009, the programs funded under Career Advice Australia
continued to deliver coordinated career and transition support services for Australians
aged 13–19 years, through local, state and national networks, until the end of 2009. The
Enterprise and Career Education Program also continued to support the development of
quality enterprise education, career development, vocational learning and transition
support for school students through a range of strategic initiatives to the end of 2009.
Youth engagement
The Office for Youth was responsible for developing the National Strategy for Young
Australians. The strategy sets out the government’s vision for all young people to grow
up safe, happy, healthy and resilient and to have the opportunities and skills they need
to learn, work, engage in community life and influence decisions that affect them.
The strategy provides a framework to inform the government’s efforts for, and
investment in, young people. It identifies eight priority areas for action, of which two,
education and employment, relate directly to DEEWR’s portfolio responsibilities. The
office will continue to promote the strategy as a guide to future government policy and
will ensure that young people’s needs and perspectives are taken into account in all
government business.
The office manages the Australian Youth Forum (AYF), which is one of the main
communication and engagement channels between the government, young people and
the youth sector. It is open and accessible to all young Australians aged 15–24 years,
and gives them an opportunity to contribute their ideas and opinions and to help form
practical solutions to problems in their lives and in society as a whole.
The AYF engages young people through the AYF website www.youth.gov.au/ayf and also
in person at forums and community activities. In 2009–10, the AYF was instrumental in
giving an estimated 4000 young people a voice through the National Conversation and
youTHINK: live & online forum, the AYF website, partnership events, sponsorship
activities and outreach forums. Notably, hundreds of young people and youth sector
members gave their direct input through the AYF to inform the government’s National
Strategy for Young Australians, which was released in April 2010.
The government, through the office, supports the delivery of National Youth Week
(NYW), Australia’s largest celebration of young people. A joint initiative with state and
territory governments, NYW aims to recognise the value of all young Australians within
their communities and provides young people with the opportunity to raise issues of
relevance to them. Young people are involved in NYW through organising and
participating in events and activities held around the country.
The office also works collaboratively across the government on issues affecting young
people. Late in 2009, the office coordinated a cross-government submission to the House
of Representatives inquiry on the impact of violence on young Australians.
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Annual Report 2009-10
The office provided secretariat support to the National Advisory Group on Body Image,
which presented its report and recommendations to government in late 2009. Work
progressed in response to the Advisory Group’s recommendations culminated in an
announcement in June 2010 of new body image initiatives, the release of a ministerial
statement on body image and the launch of a Voluntary Industry Code of Conduct. The
new body image initiatives focus on the education environment and the fashion, media
and advertising industries with the aim of building young people’s resilience to negative
body image pressures and reducing those pressures by promoting positive cultural
change.
The office administers programs that reflect a holistic approach to young people’s
engagement and participation in their communities and society. These programs include
the Youth Development and Support Program and the Transition to Independent Living
Allowance.
The Youth Development and Support Program, a national program launched in October
2009, is designed to provide financial support to non-government, not-for-profit
organisations which deliver small-scale, community-based projects to develop young
people by creating practical and innovative opportunities in their communities. The
program provides funding for initiatives that inspire and encourage young people to
engage with government and community, and help them develop skills and connections
within their communities.
The Transition to Independent Living Allowance is available to young people aged 15–25
years who have exited, or are about to exit, state-based care and/or informal care such
as juvenile justice, out-of-home care, foster care, supported care or Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander kinship care arrangements. The program is administered by
Southern Youth and Family Services in Wollongong, New South Wales.
In 2009–10, the office continues to use an evidence-based approach in assisting effective
policy development. This included the publication of the Investing in Australia’s Young
People and State of Australia’s Young People reports. The reports provide a
comprehensive and consistent view on government investment in young people, how
young people are faring and ways government can genuinely communicate with them.
The office was responsible for the production of the Youth Budget Statement 2009–10,
which is an easy-to-read online resource aimed at young people. It identifies relevant
federal budget measures that impact on, or benefit, young Australians.
The Mentor Marketplace program assisted young people who were separated, or at risk of
being separating, from families, communities, education, training and work with
mentoring services.
YouthLinx was a prevention and early intervention program that supported young people
and their families to build self-reliance and strengthen their family relationships, and
encouraged community involvement. YouthLinx services provided practical support and
guidance to young people and their families by helping them deal with issues affecting
their wellbeing as a family, and by referring them to other specialist services as required.
Support may have included advocacy, referral and information, skills development and
provision of skilled practical assistance.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Table 2.16 Key performance indicators for Program 2.10
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
25 500
32 058
3000
4386
80 000
85 868
Career and Transition Support
2600
2056
Adopt a School
1500
1450
25 000
29 489
57
57
10
10
1000
1082
172 000
133 788
5000b
4902
Number of young people engaged through YouthLinx family
support activities
14 500b
13 703
Percentage of young people and service providers reporting
positive outcomes from participation in YouthLinx activities
92%
94%
Percentage of young people, their families and service
providers reporting positive outcomes from contact with
YouthLinx for family support activities
95%
89%
2260
2761
Careers, Transitions and Partnershipsa
Number of young people supported through:
Youth Pathways
Connections Program
Structured Workplace Learning
Number of schools supported through:
Number of students supported through Adopt a School
Regional Industry Career Advisers (RICA) Network:
Number of contracts
Number of industry sectors with contracts in place to deliver
National Industry Career Specialist network services
Youth Engagement
Mentor Marketplace
Number of young people assisted
YouthLinx
Number of contacts with young people through YouthLinx
activities
Number of families engaged through YouthLinx family
support activities
Transition to Independent Living Allowance
Number of young people accessing the Transition to
Independent Living Allowance
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Annual Report 2009-10
a The programs administered under the Careers, Transitions and Partnerships program are based on calendar
year business levels and are for the 2009 calendar year.
b This estimate was published in the 2009–10 Portfolio Additional Estimates Statements.
This table shows the key performance indicators for the youth support program. Some
categories showed better than estimated results, such as the Youth Pathways,
Connections and Structure Workplace Learning programs. Others – indicators for the
YouthLinx program – performed worse than expected.
Trend analysis
All programs in the above table ceased on 31 December 2009. From 1 January 2010, two
new programs were in place under the National Partnership on Youth Attainment and
Transitions (School Business Community Partnership Brokers and Youth Connections).
Career and Transition Support and Adopt a School were implemented through the Local
Community Partnership Program, which finished at the end of 2009. The lower figures
reflect an appropriate wind-down of activity towards the end of the contract period.
The number of young people accessing the Transition to Independent Living Allowance
has increased steadily over the past three years. In 2009–10, 2761 young people
received the allowance compared to 1504 in 2007–08. This could be due to a number of
factors, such as better promotion of the allowance as well as the fact that it increased
from $1000 to $1500 on 1 July 2009.
Program performance
Both the YouthLinx and Mentor Marketplace programs finished on 31 December 2009
when the government’s investment in youth, careers and transitions was re-formed into
new programs— Youth Connections and School Business Community Partnerships
Brokers. These programs, which started on 1 January 2010, offer more targeted
assistance for young people and in more locations, making it easier for young people to
access the programs.
The Youth Development Support Program 2009–10 funding round received 404
applications. This response is indicative of the number of organisations seeking to better
engage with, and support the development of, young people in their community.
The Transition to Independent Living Allowance continues to be available to young people
aged 15–25 years who have exited or are about to exit state-based care or informal care,
with 2761 young people accessing the program in 2009–10.
Program 2.11 School Student Assistance
Program objective
The government is committed to raising the Year 12 or equivalent attainment rate to 90
per cent by 2015 and to reduce the gap in Indigenous education under its policy of giving
all eligible Australians an opportunity to gain a first-class education. It acknowledges the
financial difficulties that some students and their families may experience in undertaking
higher education. Measures in place to provide student support and to encourage and
assist young people to remain in education and training and are an important part of the
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Annual Report 2009-10
government’s strategy in achieving its targets. Support is provided through programs
such as Youth Allowance (student) and ABSTUDY, and funding through the Assistance for
Isolated Children scheme.
Table 2.17 Key performance indicators for Program 2.11
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
28 000
27 588
98 500
118 784
12 118
11 098
ABSTUDY—Secondary
Number of school students receiving ABSTUDY as at end
June
Youth Allowance—Secondary
Number of secondary school students receiving Youth
Allowance as at end June
Assistance for Isolated Children (AIC) Scheme
Students in receipt of Assistance for Isolated Children
funding
This table shows the key performance indicators of the school assistance program. The
number of school students receiving ABSTUDY was below expectation (28,000 expected,
27,588 actual), while the actual number receiving Youth Allowance was significantly
above the estimate (118,784 actual, 98,500 estimated).
Trend analysis
The number of ABSTUDY secondary school student recipients increased from 25 861 in
June 2009 to 27 588 in June 2010. This is an increase of 6.7 per cent compared with
June 2009 and an increase of 7.1 per cent from June 2008 to June 2010.
This increase can be attributed to the rising number of Indigenous secondary school
students as well as the availability of ABSTUDY to support participation in programs such
as the Sporting Chance Program, the Indigenous Youth Leadership Program and the
Indigenous Youth Mobility Program.
The number of Youth Allowance (student) secondary school student recipients increased
from 100 545 in June 2009 to 118 784 in June 2010, an 18.1 per cent increase; the
increase in 2008–09 was 3.3 per cent. The increase in the number of recipients reflects
the growth in full-time secondary school enrolments and possibly the effects of the global
recession on family income.
ABSTUDY—Secondary
ABSTUDY provides a means-tested living allowance and a range of supplementary
benefits for Indigenous students. ABSTUDY provides assistance for Indigenous Australian
secondary school students to participate in full-time education. In June 2010, 27 588
secondary school students were receiving ABSTUDY.
Youth Allowance—Secondary
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Annual Report 2009-10
Youth Allowance (student) is a means-tested income support payment available to
eligible young people aged 16 to 24 years. Certain 15-year-olds, including those who are
unable to live at home, may also receive assistance. Youth Allowance (student) provides
assistance for students and apprentices to participate in full-time education, training or
apprenticeships. In June 2010, 118 784 secondary school students and apprentices were
receiving Youth Allowance; 20.2 per cent of recipients had private earnings (on average
$241.01 a fortnight). There were 13 982 Youth Allowance (student) recipients assessed
as independent.
Assistance for Isolated Children Scheme
The Assistance for Isolated Children Scheme helps the families of geographically isolated
primary, secondary and certain tertiary students with additional educational costs where
they are unable to attend an appropriate government school on a daily basis. The scheme
is demand-driven, so actual numbers depend on how many students in isolated
geographical areas seek assistance.
Departmental outputs for Outcome 2
Table 2.18 Departmental outputs performance information
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
All programs to meet
relevant administrative
targets set by quality
assurance processes in
DEEWR
All payments are made in
accordance with
administrative targets set
by quality assurance
processes
Program management
Payments are made in accordance
with approved timelines
Payments made are based on
All programs to meet
calculations which are accurate and relevant administrative
in accordance with approved
targets set by quality
guidelines
assurance processes in
DEEWR
High-quality Ministerial replies as
measured by the level of
satisfaction of Ministers and
Parliamentary Secretaries with the
quality and timeliness of the replies
Payments made by all
programs were accurate
and met relevant
administrative targets
Qualitative evaluation of Satisfieda
satisfaction using
feedback from the
Ministers and
Parliamentary Secretaries
to the Secretary
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Effective reporting of student
performance in nationally agreed
key areas
Results agreed and
published
Results agreed and
published for:
2009 NAPLAN for
students in Years 3, 5, 7
and 9
National sample
assessment in ICT
Literacy (2008)
Effective use of online Schools
Service Point
99% of all returns will be
collected online
100% of returns are
collected online
Effective use of online School Entry 99% of all applications for
Point
funding through the
Digital Education
Revolution and Building
the Education Revolution
will be collected online
100% of all applications
for funding for the
Building the Education
Revolution were collected
online
National Report to Parliament on
Indigenous Education and Training
Seventh (2007) and
eighth (2008) reports
ready to be tabled in
2010
Seventh report to be
tabled in Parliament in
2009
Timeliness of Parliamentary reports At least 90% meet
(including interim responses where deadline
appropriate) provided to Parliament
and its Committees
Services provided by Australian
Government agencies (e.g.
Centrelink) satisfy performance
requirements
At least 90% were
completed to pl8n
DEEWR requirements met Centrelink satisfied most
of the key performance
measures in the bilateral
management
arrangement
Policy services
High-quality policy advice as
measured by the level of
satisfaction of Ministers and the
Parliamentary Secretaries with the
quality and timeliness of policy
advice
Qualitative evaluation of Satisfieda
satisfaction using
feedback from the
Ministers and
Parliamentary Secretaries
to the Secretary
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
High-quality research and
evaluation reports as measured by
the level of satisfaction of Ministers
and the Parliamentary Secretaries
with the quality and timeliness of
the reports
Qualitative evaluation of Satisfieda
satisfaction using
feedback to the Secretary
from Ministers and
Parliamentary Secretaries
Research activities are completed
according to plan
At least 90% completed
to plan
Satisfied
a During the year, ministers, parliamentary secretaries and their staff provide feedback on the level of
satisfaction with departmental advice during regular meetings with the department. Overall feedback from their
offices is that they recognise the significant efforts made by departmental staff to meet their requirements. The
volume of written material provided to the ministers and parliamentary secretaries remained steady over 2009–
10. The department provided training to staff and monitored the quality of ministerial correspondence and
briefings.
This table shows that the department was successful in meeting its estimated
performance goals in program management and policy services.
Bilateral management arrangement
The bilateral management arrangement between Centrelink, the Department of Human
Services and DEEWR provides a framework for all three agencies to deliver outcomes in
relation to employment, education and child care. The arrangement contains a confidence
framework developed to monitor the strength and success of the relationship between
agencies and to assure the parties that policy and program outcomes are being achieved.
Overall, Centrelink’s performance against the confidence framework was satisfactory
during 2009–10.
Service delivery performance for Youth Allowance (student), Austudy and ABSTUDY for
Outcome 2 is reported with Outcome 3.
Outcome 3
A growth in skills, qualifications and productivity through funding to improve
teaching quality, learning, and tertiary sector infrastructure, international
promotion of Australia’s education and training sectors and partnerships with
industry
Tertiary education is a key to the economic and social prosperity of Australian life. Postschool education and training gives individuals the knowledge and skills to contribute
fully to Australian society and to meet the challenges of a fast-moving and internationally
competitive knowledge economy.
The changing nature of work means that many Australians need greater access to
training and education opportunities to participate fully in the workforce, whether through
language, literacy and numeracy (LLN) support, apprenticeships and traineeships or
higher education degrees. These needs must be met by a high-quality tertiary education
system that is responsive to changing pressures on labour market supply that result from
economic cycles and the changing age profile of Australia’s population.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Through education reforms, the Australian Government is committed to ensuring that
higher education and vocational education and training (VET) equip Australians to make
Australia a more productive and socially inclusive nation.
The skills and qualifications delivered by Australia’s tertiary education sector meet the
needs of individuals and Australia’s economy and offer opportunities for learning both
within Australia and overseas.
The Australian higher education sector consists of 42 universities, of which 37 are public,
two are private and three are Australian branches of overseas universities, as well as
more than 150 other higher education providers. In the VET sector, approximately 5000
public and private registered training organisations (RTOs) deliver skills and qualifications
from national industry training packages and other courses. There are almost 1300
education providers who are registered to deliver education and training to international
students studying in Australia.
Tertiary education is central to boosting productivity, equipping Australians with the
knowledge needed for their role in the workforce and ensuring the education sector’s
sustainability and status as a world-class education system. Significant reform is being
undertaken throughout the tertiary education sector to provide it with the capacity for
this role.
The development of new funding arrangements is pivotal to this reform. In higher
education, demand-driven funding arrangements that will operate from 2012 are under
development. Other measures such as mission-based compacts between the Australian
Government and individual universities will also promote excellence and build capacity
and international competitiveness in the Australian university sector by detailing public
funding commitments and reciprocal institutional commitments.
The VET sector is also undergoing systemic reform: cooperation with the states and
territories is being strengthened through COAG, and there are new funding mechanisms
and associated targets.
Greater quality in the delivery of tertiary and international education will be achieved
through the work that is taking place across the tertiary and international sectors to
improve the consistency of regulation of providers and achieve greater quality in the
delivery of tertiary and international education.
Improving learning opportunities and learning outcomes is multifaceted. It includes
making more places available and ensuring that there are more equal opportunities
available for participating in learning.
In 2009–10, there was a focus on putting in place mechanisms to support students from
low socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds to participate in tertiary education at all
levels, to help all Australians maximise their potential. The support mechanisms include
expanded LLN support for adults, targeted initiatives to support Indigenous students and
scholarships and extra funding to universities to encourage and support low SES
background students to participate in higher education.
Significant investment in infrastructure is being made to expand and update facilities in
both city and regional areas.
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Annual Report 2009-10
In 2009–10, the connection between education and employment outcomes was
strengthened through initiatives in response to labour market needs in higher
education—through financial incentives to encourage students to study and work in areas
of national priority and in VET, and through incentives for apprenticeships and other
training to study in industries that risk skill shortages in the recovering economy.
Supported by the continued strengthening and streamlining of pathways between VET
and higher education, these enhancements move Australia further towards a seamless,
accessible and more quality-assured tertiary sector that will further increase the appeal
of Australia as a preferred study destination for international students, an important
feature of a globally connected nation.
Four key targets drive achievement of these outcomes and sit behind much of the work
of the government in the tertiary education sector:
●
By 2020, the proportion of Australians aged 20–64 years who do not have
qualifications to at least Certificate III level will be halved compared with 2009
proportions
●
By 2020, the number of higher VET qualifications (diploma and advanced diploma)
that were completed in 2009 will be doubled
●
By 2020, 20 per cent of undergraduate enrolments in higher education will consist of
students from low SES backgrounds
●
By 2025, 40 per cent of 25–34-year-olds will have attained at least a bachelor-level
qualification.
Meeting these targets will contribute significantly to achieving the aim of Outcome 3,
which is a growth in skills, qualifications and productivity for Australia. Outcome
programs have progressed these government targets by providing funding to improve
teaching quality, learning and tertiary sector infrastructure.
Key priorities
The key priorities for 2009–10 were:
●
to increase the number of students participating in tertiary education and receiving
qualifications and to support areas of national skill and qualification need, including
trades, nursing, education and early childhood education through
-
an increased number of places, particularly in national priority disciplines and
occupations
-
offering incentives to encourage participation in priority areas
-
building stronger partnerships with industry and making the apprenticeship
system more agile to reflect the changing needs of business and apprentices
-
improving tertiary education outcomes for people from low SES backgrounds,
from regional and remote areas and for Indigenous students, by implementing
targeted programs that increase their access, participation and retention
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Annual Report 2009-10
-
phasing out of full fee-paying places for domestic students at university,
ensuring that places are granted based on merit
-
putting in place national VET equity governance and reform measures » to
reform the structure of higher education funding arrangements to achieve a
demand-driven
●
system that rewards the participation and support of students from low SES
backgrounds, including a loading in funding provided to universities based on
students enrolled from low SES backgrounds.
●
to develop mission-based compacts with universities to provide a framework for
jointly achieving the government’s reform agenda and institutions’ individual
missions
●
to enable a more seamless provision between the VET and higher education sectors
through the continued implementation of systemic reform
●
to invest in infrastructure to underpin the quality and capacity of the tertiary
education sector through funding mechanisms including the Education Investment
Fund and the Teaching and Learning Capital Funds for both higher education and
VET
●
to mitigate the effects of the global recession
●
to establish the new Ministerial Council for Tertiary Education and Employment to
consolidate national responsibility for the governance of the tertiary and
international education sectors
●
to improve quality assurance and accountability through measures to improve
regulation and standards across the tertiary and international education sectors
●
to strengthen the transition from school to work to allow more young people to
complete Year 12 and gain appropriate vocational training structured into their
school arrangements
●
to negotiate a Green Skills Agreement with the state and territory governments in
collaboration with the training sector, universities, business, industry and unions
●
to facilitate the sustainable development of Australia’s international education and
training sector to ensure that it continues to be recognised as world class and
globally connected.
Key achievements
In 2009–10:
●
Greater equity and social inclusion across the tertiary education sector were
achieved through
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
●
●
-
the formation of the new National VET Equity Advisory Council and the delivery
of national VET equity reform and a range of equity programs in higher
education
-
the completion of tender processes for the Australian Apprenticeship Access
Program and for the delivery of the Language Literacy and Numeracy Program
-
the implementation of measures to support and encourage people from low
SES backgrounds to participate in higher education
An increase in the number of places and incentives offered to encourage
participation in tertiary education and related employment in priority labour market
areas. This included
-
500 new Commonwealth supported early childhood education places for
commencement in 2010
-
a reduction in the compulsory Higher Education Loan Program (HELP)
repayment (with a matching reduction in HELP debt) for education and nursing
graduates through a HECS-HELP benefit
-
the extension of VET FEE-HELP to eligible Victorian Government–subsidised VET
students
-
a boost in VET funding of over $422 million to support, in partnership with
states and territories, the delivery of over 125 600 new commencements in
training under the Productivity Places Program
Quality initiatives, including
-
preparation for the establishment of the Tertiary Education Quality and
Standards Agency as an independent statutory authority in 2011
-
foundation work on the establishment of the national VET regulator, which will
register and audit RTOs from 2011
-
bringing forward the review of the Education Services for Overseas Students
Act 2000 (ESOS Act) undertaken by the Hon Bruce Baird AM
-
strengthened quality assurance arrangements under the Australian Quality
Training Framework for the registration and auditing of training providers,
endorsed in December 2009
The effects of the global recession on individuals were mitigated through initiatives
that included
-
implementation of the Training and Learning Bonus, a one-off financial bonus
to assist with the costs of study, for eligible students and postgraduate
scholarship holders under the Nation Building—Economic Stimulus Plan
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
-
establishment of the MCTEE Apprentices Action Group to oversee
implementation of the COAG-agreed actions to support the engagement and
retention of Australian Apprentices during and following the economic downturn
-
successful implementation of the Apprentice Kickstart Bonus from 1 December
2009 and of the Keep Australia Working Apprenticeship measure
-
successful implementation of the Building the Basics package—$28.2 million
over three years to provide 5888 additional LLN training places for adults aged
25 years and over, increase the number of trainers and encourage the
acquisition of further qualifications
Programs to increase the number of qualified workers available to Australia included
-
strengthening the role of industry skills councils under the Skilling Australia for
the Future policy including: consolidation of their central role in the national
training system through the development and maintenance of training
packages and through the implementation of policy changes flowing from the
recommendations of the VET Products for the 21st Century report, under the
auspices of the National Quality Council; advice on emerging issues and skills
and training needs for individual industry sectors; assisting individual
enterprises in identifying their workforce development and skills needs; and
delivering the Enterprise-Based Productivity Places Program
-
reforms to establish a national licensing system across all states and territories.
Progress included: agreement by the Ministerial Council for Federal Financial
Relations to general financial arrangements for the National Occupational
Licensing System (NOLS); establishing interim advisory committees with
membership drawn from employer, union, regulator, consumer and training
organisations to develop licensing policy for the first wave of NOLS
occupations: plumbing and gasfitting, electrical, property and air-conditioning
and refrigeration; and development of a draft Bill for the system for public
comment.
-
funding seven significant projects through the Professional Services
Development Program, enabling 519 overseas-trained Australian residents to
have their professional qualifications assessed for the purposes of registration
and/or employment in Australia
●
COAG and Ministerial Council processes were developed to assist the government in
implementing reforms such as National Partnerships
●
Management of infrastructure programs included
-
the announcement of 19 successful projects from the Education Investment
Fund (EIF) Round Three and Sustainability Round
-
continued support to James Cook University for a new school of dentistry
-
successful completion of 84 per cent of sites receiving funding under the
Teaching and Learning Capital Fund for VET, with the remainder due to be
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Annual Report 2009-10
completed by 31 December 2010. Projects funded focus on modernising and
improving the quality of teaching and learning across the sector
-
●
●
●
provision of grant funding totalling $11 million to 21 organisations under the
Industry and Indigenous Skill Centres program and the successful
implementation of the Indigenous Regional Projects element under the Industry
Training Strategies Program for 2009–10 and 2010–11, with 21 projects
totalling $2.7 million to be funded nationally
Institutions were provided access to sustained levels of funding to resource ongoing
teaching needs through
-
an increase, as recommended in the Review of Australian Higher Education, in
the maximum annual student contribution amount for education and nursing
units of study for students who commence from 2010, from the national
priority band to Band 1 level. This measure will deliver additional funding to
higher education providers that can be used to improve the resourcing of
education courses
-
implementation of the government’s commitment to a new indexation formula
that will maintain the real value of the Commonwealth’s funding and student
contributions for higher education through amendments to the Higher
Education Support Act 2003
International collaboration resulted in
-
the establishment of a Bureau for Vocational Education and Training
Collaboration to inform the process of developing the Indian VET system and
proposals for ‘practical areas of development’ between Australia and India
-
support of 15 regional link projects and 10 projects to increase Australia’s
profile
Support for the international education industry resulted in an increase in
international student enrolments in 2009 to 631 000, generating $18.6 billion to the
Australian economy, including
-
arrangements for the transfer, from 1 July 2010, of the responsibility for
marketing of Australia’s international education and training from DEEWR to
Austrade
-
a consultation process in response to these changes, called Re: New AEI, with
key stakeholders across the sector which will result in a five-year strategic plan
-
the provision of 1806 scholarships, fellowships and exchange opportunities,
including 588 scholarships through the Endeavour Awards and Prime Minister’s
Australia Asia Awards, allowing candidates to participate in study, research and
professional development across the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, Europe, the
Americas and Australia
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Annual Report 2009-10
-
continued provision of information to the international education sector,
including international student enrolment data and research into international
students’ experiences of studying in Australia.
Program 3.1 Higher Education Support
Program objective
The objective of this program is to provide support for Australia’s higher education sector
through a range of initiatives. These initiatives support institutions, students and staff in
the sector in order to achieve national growth in skills, qualifications, productivity and
social inclusion.
The government aims to make Australia one of the most highly educated and skilled
nations and in the top group of Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
(OECD) nations for university research and knowledge diffusion.
Of Australia’s 42 universities, 37 are public, two are private and three are Australian
branches of overseas universities. Of the other higher 150 education providers, three are,
like the universities, self-accrediting while the others are non-self-accrediting higher
education institutions.
In 2009, 813 896 domestic students and 320 970 international students (including 75
377 studying offshore) were undertaking studies through Australian higher education
institutions.
The Australian Government is the primary source of public funding for Australian
universities and self-accrediting institutions under the legislative framework of the Higher
Education Support Act 2003. Publicly funded institutions receive on average
approximately 55 per cent of their operating revenue from government grants and
payments on behalf of students who take out loans.
The Review of Higher Education, chaired by Professor Denise Bradley AC, examined and
reported on the future direction of the higher education sector, its fitness for purpose in
meeting the needs of the Australian community and economy and the options for reform.
Released at the end of 2008 and run concurrently with the Review of the National
Innovation System, the Bradley Review helped to develop a long-term vision for higher
education into the next decade and beyond.
In response to the Bradley Review’s 46 recommendations, the government committed
$5.4 billion in the 2009–10 Budget to a significant reform agenda that will see higher
education and research fuelling economic development and productivity, and supporting
Australia’s role as a leader in the Asia–Pacific region.
In 2009–10, the department worked on the government’s commitments to the
recommendations of the Bradley Review, including the implementation of a demanddriven funding system from 2012.
From 2012, public universities will be funded on the basis of student demand. This means
that the government will fund a Commonwealth supported place for all undergraduate
domestic students accepted into an eligible higher education course at these institutions.
Under the demand-driven funding system, providers will decide how many places they
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Annual Report 2009-10
will offer and in which disciplines. Providers will be able to increase the number of
Commonwealth supported places they offer in particular disciplines in response to
employer and student demand.
In the interim period, transitional arrangements for 2010 and 2011 provide for the
funding cap on over-enrolments to be increased from 5 per cent to 10 per cent, and for
the funding floor for under-enrolments to remain. Providers will be paid for overenrolment in the year in which it occurs rather than retrospectively.
The government provides support for new and existing infrastructure. Initiatives target
new building works and infrastructure maintenance as well as the promotion of structural
reform to support universities in adapting to the new structures. The government
established the Education Investment Fund from 1 January 2009 and, through four
funding rounds, has committed $2.1 billion in major capital funding.
The government is also complementing the Education Investment Fund through a one-off
payment of $500 million from the Teaching and Learning Capital Fund for Higher
Education paid in 2009–10 and financial support through the Capital Development Pool.
Equity measures provided by the government include equity programs to develop
partnerships between schools and higher education providers to ensure greater equality
of access for all Australians, as well as a loading in funding provided to universities based
on the number of students from low SES backgrounds who are enrolled in those
institutions. As part of the budget package for 2009–10, the government announced that
better measures of low SES would be developed based on the circumstances of individual
students and their families. For 2009–10, funding for the Higher Education Participation
and Partnerships Program was allocated using a new interim measure of SES of higher
education students.
The government continued to make a number of measures available to encourage
students and universities to respond to labour market needs and also to improve access
to higher education places, including for students from Indigenous communities and
regional and remote areas. These included National Priority Scholarships, additional
Commonwealth supported places, a reduction in student contributions for students
enrolling in priority disciplines and National Accommodation Scholarships for students
relocating more than 100 kilometres to study specialist courses not available near their
homes.
The government is also supporting and rewarding excellence across universities.
Performance funding will be provided from 2012 to reward universities for meeting
particular targets. Preparation for these new arrangements includes the development of
performance indicators for the new performance funding system.
The first full mission-based compacts with universities will be agreed in the second half of
2010. Compacts will be agreements that outline the relationship between the Australian
Government and individual universities and provide a framework for jointly achieving the
government’s reform agenda and institutions’ individual missions. They will provide
information on public funding commitments and reciprocal institutional commitments. A
discussion paper, Mission-based Compacts for Universities: A Framework for Discussion,
was released in July 2009. As a transitional arrangement before the first compacts begin
in 2011, universities negotiated an interim agreement for the 2010 calendar year.
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Annual Report 2009-10
The effectiveness of initiatives under this program is measured using several indicators.
The numbers of domestic enrolments (full-time equivalents), domestic postgraduate
enrolments (full-time equivalents), undergraduate completions and postgraduate
coursework completions are measures of the capacity of the program to fund and support
places for students. The labour market’s demand for graduates, as measured by the
percentage of higher education graduates in full-time employment within four months of
completion of degree (of those available for work), and the trend in graduate starting
salaries as a proportion of male average weekly earnings provide an indication of the
program’s impact on productivity in the workplace. The program supports access to, and
participation in, higher education for Indigenous students, measured by the trend in the
number of all Indigenous students by selected higher education course level categories.
Table 3.1
Key performance indicator for Program 3.1
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
422 000
443 797
Number of Commonwealth supported domestic postgraduate
coursework placesa
21 000
25 289
Number of CGS medical places for which medical student
loading is provideda
10 208
10 255
85
85
4694
6786
27 421
29 288b
9450
8892
40
47
8c
64
44 360
44 131
Commonwealth Grant Scheme (CGS)
Number of Commonwealth supported domestic undergraduate
placesa
Number of regional campuses under the CGS for which
regional loading is applied
Number of CGS places for which enabling loading is provided a
Number of CGS places for which Transitional Loading is
provideda
Higher Education Equity Programs
Number of Indigenous students supported (Indigenous
Support Program)
Capital Development Pool and Special Projects
Number of Capital Development Pool projects funded
Diversity and Structural Adjustment Fund
Number of projects receiving funding
Commonwealth Scholarships
Number of scholarships allocated to higher education
providersd
Higher Education Special Projects
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
4
4
40
107
—
32
Number of projects that received funding by the Support for
Small Businesses on Regional University Campuses Program
(program ends in 2010)
Number of Commonwealth supported places accessed by
students in the National Centre of Excellence for Islamic
Studies
Education Investment Fund
Number of projects supported by the Education Investment
Funde
a These figures refer to calendar year 2009.
b This estimated actual is the most current figure available at time of print.
c This estimate was published in the 2009–10 Portfolio Additional Estimates Statements.
d Includes new and continuing scholarships allocated to eligible higher education providers in calendar year
2009.
e EIF funding is awarded on a competitive basis, and the number of projects to be funded cannot be estimated
ahead of time.
This table shows positive results in most categories of performance indicators for the
Higher Education Support program. The categories with less than expected results
include the number of Indigenous students supported in the Indigenous Support Program
(9450 estimated, 8892 actual), and the number of scholarships allocated to higher
education providers (44,360 estimated, 44,131 actual).
Commonwealth Grant Scheme
●
Under the Commonwealth Grant Scheme, the Australian Government provides
funding to higher education providers to support the provision of undergraduate and
some non-research postgraduate student places. Funding agreements detail the
number of places (in broad discipline clusters) that providers are funded to deliver.
Eligible providers may also receive additional funding through loadings:
●
regional loading—helps higher education providers meet the higher costs associated
with their regional location, size and history. A review of regional loading was
announced as part of the 2009–10 Budget. The outcomes of the review will inform
the government’s policy on the future provision of regional loading for regional
universities from 2012
●
enabling loading—provides additional funding to higher education providers for
students undertaking a course leading to a higher education award who cannot be
charged a student contribution
●
medical student loading—for Commonwealth supported places in a medicine course
of study, completion of which would allow provisional registration as a medical
practitioner
●
transitional loading—additional funding for mathematics, statistics and science units
of study to compensate for the reduction in the maximum annual student
contribution amount for commencing Commonwealth supported students
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Annual Report 2009-10
undertaking those units. In 2009, transitional loading was also supplied to
compensate providers for any transitional costs associated with the phase out of
domestic undergraduate full fee-paying places.
During 2009–10:
●
Providers were funded for 443 957 Commonwealth supported places to be delivered
in 2009 and for 452 025 places to be delivered in 2010 as specified in their funding
agreements (funding is subject to adjustment for under-enrolment or overenrolment).
●
Over 780 new commencing Commonwealth supported places were allocated as a
result of 2008–09 Budget measures. The places are for commencement in 2010 and
2011. A further 220 places are available for allocation for commencement in 2011.
●
Funding agreements were negotiated with all higher education providers in receipt
of Commonwealth supported places.
●
Regional loading provided funding of $31.2 million for 2009 and $31.8 million for
2010.
Commonwealth supported domestic undergraduate enrolments increased by 5.9 per cent
between 2008 and 2009 to 443 797 equivalent full-time student load (EFTSL).
Commonwealth supported domestic postgraduate enrolments increased by 23.2 per cent
between 2008 and 2009 to 25 289 EFTSL.
Performance funding
In December 2009, the department released a discussion paper, An Indicator Framework
for Higher Education Performance Funding, proposing a series of performance indicators
for measuring quality and equity in Australian public universities for use in the new
performance funding system. Over 60 submissions were received in response to the
discussion paper. The department will consider feedback received from the higher
education sector in developing draft performance funding guidelines. The guidelines are
expected to be released later in 2010.
Higher Education Equity Programs
A range of programs provide funding to support access and retention in higher education
and increasing opportunities for participation in higher education. In 2009, as part of its
response to recommendations from the Bradley Review, the government set a target for
the proportion of all undergraduate enrolments to be filled by people from low SES
backgrounds—20 per cent by 2020. In support of that aim, the government is providing
$512.09 million over four years (2010–2013) to the Higher Education Participation and
Partnership Program.
In response to calls from the higher education sector to revise the methods to measure
low SES, in 2009 the government released a discussion paper, Measuring the Socioeconomic Status of Higher Education Students. The government developed a more robust
interim indicator of low SES which uses a combination of census-level socioeconomic
index at Census Collection District level and data from Centrelink. The interim low SES
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Annual Report 2009-10
indicator improves on the current postcode measure, as it incorporates four dimensions
of socioeconomic status: education, occupation, income and community. This interim
indicator will be used to distribute some of the new funding in 2010.
Higher Education Participation and Partnership Program
The Higher Education Participation and Partnership Program began operations in 2010
with a budget for that year of $56.4 million. The program supports the government’s goal
of having people from a low SES background fill 20 per cent of higher education
enrolments at undergraduate level by 2020. The program has two components: a
participation component and a partnership component. The participation component
gives universities a financial incentive to expand their enrolments of students from low
SES backgrounds and to provide the intensive support needed to improve their
completion and retention rates. The partnership component, which aims to encourage
more students from those backgrounds to aspire to higher education, involves
universities partnering with schools, vocational education and training providers, state
and territory governments, community groups and other stakeholders. The Higher
Education Participation and Partnership Program replaces the Higher Education Equity
Support Program, which allocated approximately $11.71 million to eligible higher
education providers during 2009.
Higher Education Equity Support Program
The Higher Education Equity Support Program provided funding to eligible higher
education providers to implement strategies that will assist in removing barriers to access
for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. This may include students from low SES
backgrounds, students from regional and remote areas, students with disability and
students from non-English speaking backgrounds. Approximately $11.47 million was
allocated to eligible providers during 2009.
Higher Education Disability Support Program
Approximately $6.1 million was available in 2009 through the Higher Education Disability
Support Program. This funding assists eligible higher education providers in meeting the
educational support and equipment costs of students with disability. The program also
aims to encourage providers to develop strategies to facilitate the access, participation,
retention and success of students with disability.
Commonwealth Scholarships
The Commonwealth Scholarships program provides students from low SES backgrounds,
including Indigenous students and students from regional and remote areas, with
financial assistance for the costs associated with higher education. The program has two
key components: Commonwealth Education Costs Scholarships, which assist students
with general education costs, and Commonwealth Accommodation Scholarships, which
assist students from regional and remote areas with their accommodation costs if they
have to move to undertake higher education. The Indigenous Access Scholarship, which
encourages access to higher education by Indigenous students, particularly those who
need to relocate from regional and remote areas, was valued at $4166 in 2009.
In 2009, the Commonwealth Scholarships program was expanded to introduce two new
scholarships. There are 3000 National Priority Scholarships, valued at $2207 (indexed
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Annual Report 2009-10
annually), to assist students who are studying in national priority areas and 1500
National Accommodation Scholarships to assist students who need to travel more than
100 kilometres to study a specialist course not available near their home location. A
National Accommodation Scholarship was valued at $4415 (indexed annually).
The government allocates funding annually for Commonwealth Scholarships to eligible
higher education providers who determine their application and selection processes in
line with broad government guidelines.
All Commonwealth Scholarships are indexed annually and are not treated as income for
Social Security pensions and allowances or for ABSTUDY.
Approximately $137 million was allocated to eligible providers for Commonwealth
Scholarships in 2009.
Indigenous Support Program
The Indigenous Support Program provides funding to publicly funded universities to assist
them in meeting the needs of Indigenous students and to advance the goals of the
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Policy. The funding is based on
performance in three areas: Indigenous student enrolments, student progress rates and
award course completion rates. The allocations are adjusted each year based on data
from the Higher Education Student Statistical Collection. Funding is indexed annually.
In 2009–10, the program provided funds to eligible higher education providers to enable
them to improve the participation, opportunities and outcomes of Indigenous students
and staff. A wide variety of approaches were adopted, including the following strategies:
●
intensive Indigenous orientation programs for students entering higher education
through non-mainstream avenues
●
on-campus residential programs for Indigenous high school students
●
academic and social support, including resourcing computer labs and tutoring rooms
and reserving them for Indigenous students within Indigenous Education Units
●
employment of full-time Indigenous Student Support Officers
●
Indigenous mentoring programs for students in need
●
alternative entry provisions for Indigenous students
●
culturally appropriate student recruitment processes.
In 2009, $34.7 million was allocated to eligible higher education providers.
Indigenous Higher Education Advisory Council
The appointment of the third Indigenous Higher Education Advisory Council (IHEAC) was
jointly announced by the Minister for Education and the Minister for Innovation, Industry,
Science and Research on 5 November 2009, concurrently with the first council meeting.
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Annual Report 2009-10
The third IHEAC was established to provide policy advice to the ministers on enhancing
participation and outcomes for Indigenous students and staff in study, research, research
training and employment in higher education.
The new council met for the second time on 22–23 February 2010 and endorsed the
IHEAC Strategic Plan for 2009–2012 which was delivered to the ministers. A third council
meeting was held on 17–18 June 2010.
Capital Development Pool
The Australian Government assists with capital development requirements in the higher
education sector, providing annual funding on a competitive basis through the Capital
Development Pool program.
In 2009–10, funding was awarded for capital development projects that enhance
teaching and learning and that provide graduates with skills in areas of workforce need.
This included support for campuses in regional centres and urban growth corridors, areas
of national importance such as nursing, teaching, and health and science related fields,
as well as IT-related projects that enhance educational delivery. Projects supported
include:
●
a new building for The University of Western Australia’s Community Clinical School
at Joondalup Health Campus, to improve teaching and learning facilities for
undergraduate students from medical and allied professions
●
a new building for the innovative science precinct at the University of Western
Sydney’s Parramatta campus, to allow better laboratory teaching for science and
nursing students
●
a student services precinct on James Cook University’s Douglas campus, to better
accommodate core student support services
●
the creation of a simulation learning facility at the Clinical Education and Training
Centre on the University of South Australia’s City East campus
●
a dedicated, high-capacity network fibre connection for the Australian Research and
Education Network at the University of New England, to ensure reliable access to
global teaching and research networks
●
a new building for the University of Sydney’s Camden campus, to support education
and evidence-based teaching in global change biology, sustainable ecosystems and
sustainable agriculture.
Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency
In the 2009–10 Budget, the Australian Government included in its package of higher
education reforms in response to the Bradley Review (Transforming Australia’s Higher
Education System) an allocation of $57 million over four years to establish a new national
body for regulation and quality assurance, the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards
Agency (TEQSA) and to develop a new quality assurance framework.
The government envisages that TEQSA will:
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
be an independent body operating at arms length from government
●
oversee the development of strengthened quality assurance arrangements and
protect the overall quality of the Australian higher education system
●
have powers to regulate university and nonuniversity higher education providers,
monitor quality and set standards
●
work with the tertiary education sector to lift standards, address underperformance
and drive improvements in the quality of Australia’s institutions
●
provide assurance to students that they will receive a high-quality qualification at
any of Australia’s higher education providers.
The Minister for Education has established interim advisory arrangements for the
transition to TEQSA, which apply from July 2010 and which will guide the establishment
of the agency prior to the enactment of statutory powers for TEQSA.
Diversity and Structural Adjustment Fund
The Diversity and Structural Adjustment Fund (DASA) aimed to promote structural
reform by publicly funded universities. Projects funded through DASA aimed to increase
specialisation among providers, increase diversity in the higher education sector and
increase responsiveness to labour markets operating in the local or national interest.
Over $200 million was allocated to the sector through DASA over 2008–2011. The full list
of DASA projects is available from the department’s website www.deewr.gov.au/dsa.
Funding for these projects continues until the end of 2011.
In addition, $3.7 million was allocated through DASA to assist publicly funded universities
with implementation of the Australian Higher Education Graduation Statement. The
statement aims to describe a higher education qualification in an easily understandable
way. A total of 36 universities have received grants of $100 000 each to assist with the
implementation of the statement.
In 2009, the Collaboration and Structural Reform (CASR) Fund was subsumed by DASA.
In 2010, in response to recommendations from the Bradley Review, DASA was subsumed
by the Structural Adjustment Fund and $64 million in uncommitted DASA funds was
redirected to it. In 2009–10, 64 CASR/DASA projects received $47 million in funding. A
number of projects were completed in the 2009–10 financial year.
Structural Adjustment Fund
The Structural Adjustment Fund was announced as part of the 2009–10 Budget. The fund
will provide $400 million over four years to assist universities that need to make
significant structural adjustments in preparing for the new operational requirements of a
demand-driven funding system with new quality measures in place. The fund comprises
$200 million provided under the Higher Education Support Act 2003 and $200 million
from the Education Investment Fund which has been earmarked for capital investment.
Structural adjustments will improve the sustainability of institutions and contribute to
high-quality teaching and learning, particularly in regional and outer metropolitan areas.
Program guidelines were developed in 2010 in consultation with the higher education
sector and other key stakeholders.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Higher Education Special Projects
Higher Education Special Projects provide funding to raise the profile of a number of
significant areas of interest across the broader education sector. These may be funded
through endowments or program appropriations.
Small business incentives for regional campuses
The Support for Small Businesses on Regional University Campuses Program was part of
the transitional arrangements in response to the introduction of voluntary student
unionism. The program assists higher education providers to encourage and support
small businesses to establish operations on regional campuses to provide services for
students. The types of business services that have been supported under the program
include health, accommodation, child care, food and beverage supplies and textbook and
educational supplies.
Total funding of $4.4 million was allocated under the program to 20 projects across nine
universities. Final payments were made in 2009–10.
National Centre of Excellence for Islamic Studies
The National Centre of Excellence for Islamic Studies (NCEIS) was established in 2007 in
response to the Australian Government’s National Action Plan to Build on Social Cohesion,
Harmony and Security. The NCEIS is hosted by the University of Melbourne. The purpose
of the NCEIS is to meet the needs of Australians, including the Islamic community, for
higher education Islamic studies, to meet the learning needs of aspiring and existing
religious leaders, teachers and other professionals who work in the Islamic community
and to ensure that Australians across the country will be able to access Islamic studies
courses from NCEIS. The NCEIS is also expected to achieve an international profile
among academics, Islamic scholars and overseas students.
The NCEIS appoints members to a national consultative committee whose membership
comprises academics, young people, representatives from the Islamic community,
women’s organisations and the department. The committee assists and advises the
NCEIS on a range of community issues, including teaching and research activities,
strategic direction and the needs of the Islamic community.
Australian Government funding included a payment of $595 000 to assist NCEIS with the
establishment and maintenance of a sustainable partnership with the community, a
payment of $4 million for physical and academic infrastructure and funding to support a
number of Commonwealth supported places each year for students enrolled in Islamic
studies.
In 2009, the number of commencing students enrolled in Commonwealth supported
places increased to 107. Students interested in Islamic studies subjects as part of their
undergraduate studies were enrolled at the University of Melbourne and its partner
universities, Griffith University and the University of Western Sydney.
National Centre for Student Equity in Higher Education
The National Centre for Student Equity in Higher Education (NCSEHE) was established in
July 2008 and is hosted by the University of South Australia. Its purpose is to inform
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Annual Report 2009-10
student equity policy and practice in Australian higher education and to provide
leadership in researching student equity issues in the Australian context.
The NCSEHE has an advisory board consisting of equity practitioners, academics,
representatives from the higher education, vocational, education and training and schools
sectors and the department. The board provides advice to the NCSEHE on its strategic
direction, goals and activities.
The Australian Government currently provides $590 000 annually towards the operational
costs of the NCSEHE.
Centre for Social Impact
The Centre for Social Impact was established in June 2008 with an endowment of $12.5
million from the Australian Government to the University of New South Wales. The
purpose of the centre is to build the capacity and effectiveness of the not-for-profit sector
by engaging in world-class teaching, to produce high-quality research and to work with
strategic partners to help develop and deliver better options for and to the not-for-profit
sector.
The centre has three advisory councils consisting of senior members of the not-for-profit,
corporate and government sectors. The councils provide advice to the centre on teaching
and research priorities, stakeholder relationships and public policy issues.
The centre is required to obtain ‘matched-funding’ of $12.5 million from non-Australian
Government sources, including philanthropic sources.
Larry Knight Memorial Scholarship
In 2006, the government established the Larry Knight Memorial Scholarship to fund an
annual scholarship to assist with education costs for a student from a low SES
background enrolled in mining-related undergraduate courses at the University of
Tasmania. The government provided an endowment of $1 million to the university for
establishment of the scholarship. Interest from the endowment may be invested by the
university to finance the scholarship on an ongoing basis. Scholarships were awarded in
2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010.
Chair of Australian Literature
In 2008, the government, with an endowment of $1.5 million, established the Winthrop
Chair in Australian Literature at the University of Western Australia, to reinvigorate the
study of Australian literature at university, in schools and throughout the community.
The Winthrop Chair in Australian Literature encourages the study and appreciation of
Australia’s creative writers and their work at the national and international levels. The
chair conducts and guides new research and promotes reading and interest in Australian
literature throughout the education sector and the broader community. In 2009,
Professor Philip Mead was appointed inaugural chair. During 2009–10, three research
projects were initiated. A project on investigating the teaching of Australian literature in
universities and senior secondary schools was completed and a number of other research
projects are currently underway.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Education Investment Fund
The EIF subsumed the Higher Education Endowment Fund. It is a major component of
the government’s Education Revolution and is also one of the three nation-building funds
established to stimulate economic activity in the short term and expand growth potential
in the medium to long term. By supporting world-leading, strategic infrastructure
investments, the EIF aims to build a modern, productive, internationally competitive
Australian economy that will transform Australian tertiary education and research.
The EIF provides funding for projects that create or develop significant infrastructure in
higher education institutions, research institutions and VET providers. Projects within the
higher education and VET sector are managed by DEEWR, while the research sector
projects are managed by the Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research.
In 2010, the government announced 19 successful projects from the EIF Round 3 and
Sustainability Round. Projects included:
●
Swinburne University of Technology Advanced Manufacturing Centre—Factory of the
Future—$40 million. The project will provide collaborative learning spaces with
commercial scale equipment, enabling an increase in project-based and industrybased learning in engineering and manufacturing.
●
University of South Australia—Participate@UniSA—$30 million. The project
addresses national higher education priorities by increasing low SES enrolments in
allied health areas such as nursing, podiatry and dietetics.
●
University of Technology Sydney—Building for the Future: a Unique Interactive
Learning Environment—$50 million. The project will create a world-leading learning
facility in the fields of information technology and engineering.
●
Pilbara TAFE—Pundulmurra Campus Upgrade—$12.19 million. The project will
involve a mix of new and refurbished classrooms and training workshops,
horticulture and outdoor training facilities. Participation and attainment rates by
Indigenous students will be boosted, with the design of the new facilities ensuring a
best practice Indigenous teaching and learning environment.
●
Civil Contractors Federation (Civil Train SA)—Civil Train Highway to Skilling the
Industry—$8.2 million. The project will generate environmental and financial
benefits by using carbon-free simulators rather than real carbon-emitting plant
equipment for civil infrastructure industry training and the green skilling of civil
infrastructure industry workers.
University of Queensland—School of Veterinary Science at Gatton Campus
In 2009, the University of Queensland received funding of $47.2 million through the
Education Investment Fund to support the $95.8 million relocation of its School of
Veterinary Science from the Brisbane metropolitan area to its Gatton Campus, 90
kilometres west of Brisbane. The relocation involved the construction of three new
buildings to house research laboratories and a teaching hospital.
Collaborations with CSIRO, the Queensland Department of Primary Industries and
Fisheries and leading national and international scientists resulted in the formation of a
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Annual Report 2009-10
leading animal science and health facility in Australia. The facility is dedicated to
protecting the health and welfare of animals, to enhancing the productivity of the
Australian livestock industries and to improving the nation's biosecurity. The project was
completed in May 2010.
Teaching and Learning Capital Fund for Higher Education
The Teaching and Learning Capital Fund for Higher Education was announced by the
Prime Minister in December 2008 as part of the $4.7 billion Nation Building Package. It
was a one-off $500 million capital injection to higher education institutions, funded
through the EIF. Funding was allocated among all Table A and Table B higher education
institutions listed under the Higher Education Support Act 2003 for projects focused on
the development of teaching and learning spaces in Australia’s universities that are
physically and technologically appropriate for 21st century approaches to tertiary
education. There are 117 projects under this initiative, and all components are expected
to be completed by the due date of 30 June 2012.
National Institutes Program
In 2009–10, funding under the National Institutes Program was provided to the
Australian National University, the Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education
and the University of Tasmania (for the Australian Maritime College) in recognition of
their national role in their respective areas of higher education.
Transitional Costs Program
The Transitional Costs Program was introduced in 2008 to assist higher education
providers with the transitional costs associated with changes to the maximum student
contribution amount for Commonwealth supported students undertaking accounting and
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Annual Report 2009-10
related disciplines. The Transitional Costs Program provided funding of $32 million in
2009 and $15 million in 2010. The program will cease at the end of 2012.
Superannuation program
The government provides supplementary funding to eligible higher education providers to
cover certain superannuation expenses incurred for staff who are members of identified
state government emerging cost superannuation schemes. A proportion of the funding is
recovered from the relevant states under cost-share arrangements. In 2009–10, $124.8
million in funding was provided to 18 universities and $26.9 million was recovered from
state governments.
Effectiveness indicators
Table 3.2
Effectiveness indicators for Program 3.1
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
555 000
574 084
94 000
94 348
Trend in number of undergraduate completions
170 000
169 678
Trend in number of postgraduate coursework
completions
104 000
96 319
Percentage of higher education graduates in fulltime employment within four months of completion
of degree, of those available for work
85.8%
79.2%
Trend in graduate starting salaries as a proportion of
male average weekly earnings
80.9%
83%
9600
10 465
Trend in number of domestic enrolments (full-time
equivalents)
Trend in number of domestic postgraduate
enrolments (full-time equivalents)
Trend in number of all Indigenous students by
selected higher education course level categoriesa
a All Indigenous students in higher education.
Trend in number of domestic enrolments (full-time equivalents)
Domestic enrolments increased by 5.8 per cent between 2008 and 2009, to 574 084
equivalent full-time student load (EFTSL). This growth is higher than estimated.
Trend in number of domestic postgraduate enrolments (full-time equivalents)
Domestic postgraduate enrolments increased by 7.5 per cent between 2008 and 2009, to
94 348 EFTSL. This growth was slightly higher than estimated.
Trend in number of undergraduate completions
Undergraduate completions increased by 3.7 per cent between 2008 and 2009, to 169
678.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Chart 3.1
Undergraduate commencements and completions for 2007-2009
calendar years
Trend in number of post-graduate coursework completions
Postgraduate coursework completions increased by 4.1 per cent between 2008 and 2009,
to 96 319.
Percentage of higher education graduates in full-time employment within four
months of completion of degree, of those available for work
In 2009, 79.2 per cent of bachelor degree graduates seeking full-time employment were
in full-time employment within four months of completing their degrees. This is a
decrease from 85.2 per cent in 2008, which is associated with the global recession and
lower employment opportunities.
Trend in graduate starting salaries as a proportion of male average weekly
earnings
In 2009, the median annual starting salary for new bachelor degree graduates aged less
than 25 and in their first full-time employment was $48 000 (up from $45 000 in 2008).
As a result, in 2009, graduate starting salaries were 83 per cent of male average weekly
earnings.
Trend in number of all Indigenous students by selected higher education course
level categories
Indigenous enrolments increased by 9.8 per cent between 2008 and 2009, to 10 465
students.
Program 3.2 Higher Education Loan Program
Program objective
HELP supports access to higher education and vocational education and training for
eligible domestic students through the provision of discounts and loans for tuition fees.
Support is also provided for the costs associated with overseas study that contributes to
an Australian higher education undergraduate award.
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Annual Report 2009-10
HELP is an income-contingent loan program. The repayment arrangements under HELP
ensure that only those people whose income level is above the minimum repayment
threshold are required to make compulsory repayments. HELP debts are indexed. There
is no interest charged on the loans. The government bears the deferral costs of the loans
and the cost of loans that are never repaid due to low income.
Performance against this objective is measured by the proportion of eligible domestic
higher education and VET students receiving support under HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP and
VET FEE-HELP, as well as by the number of OSHELP loans.
In 2009–10, the government extended the measure to reduce the compulsory HELP
repayment for particular graduates through a HECS-HELP benefit to education and
nursing graduates. Students who graduate from an education or nursing course of study
that is required for initial entry to work as a teacher or nurse from second semester 2009
onwards will be eligible for the HECS-HELP benefit, which will reduce their compulsory
HELP debt repayments (with a matching reduction in the debt balance) if they go on to
work as a teacher or nurse. The maximum reduction will be $1558.50 for the 2009–10
income year (indexed in later years). A person will be able to receive the benefit for up to
a lifetime maximum of 260 weeks (five years) of eligible employment.
The HECS-HELP benefit already applied to mathematics and science graduates (who
graduate from second semester 2008 onwards) if they take up related occupations and to
eligible early childhood education teachers who work in an area of particular need.
Table 3.3
Key performance indicators for Program 3.2
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
340 000
368 679
50 000
55 369
2800c
2651
-
-
HECS-HELPa
Domestic higher education students (equivalent full-time
student load) enrolled in award courses in receipt of
HECS-HELP
FEE-HELP
Domestic higher education students (equivalent full-time
student load) enrolled in award courses in receipt of
FEE-HELPb
OS-HELP
Number of OS-HELP loans to assist students to
undertake some of their course overseas
SA-HELPd
Number of SA-HELP loans to assist students to pay their
services and amenities fee (subject to passage of
legislation)
VET FEE-HELP
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Equivalent full-time students assisted to study diploma
and above qualifications under the VET FEE-HELP
Scheme
Estimate
Actual
25 650
3498
a Does not include students receiving HECS-HELP discounts for upfront payments.
b Includes students enrolled at Open Universities Australia.
c This estimate was published in the 2009–10 Portfolio Additional Estimates Statements.
d Pending legislation.
This table shows the key performance indicators for the Higher Education Loan Program.
The number of domestic students actually receiving HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP was above
those estimated.
HECS-HELP
HECS-HELP, for students in Commonwealth supported places, provides a loan for student
contributions or a 20 per cent discount for upfront payments of $500 or more.
FEE-HELP
FEE-HELP loans are available for domestic fee-paying students enrolled at universities,
approved higher education providers or Open Universities Australia, up to a lifetime FEEHELP limit of $106 328 for medicine, dentistry and veterinary science courses, and $85
062 for all other courses (2009 limits, indexed annually). A 20 per cent loan fee applies
to undergraduate courses of study. From 1 January 2009 undergraduate fee-paying
places for domestic students at public universities began to be phased out.
OS-HELP
OS-HELP loans (maximum per loan in 2010 is $5523) are for undergraduate
Commonwealth supported students to undertake part of the study towards their
Australian courses at an overseas institution. Students have access to two loans over a
lifetime. In 2009–10, a 20 per cent loan fee applied to OS-HELP loans. From 1 January
2010, OS-HELP loans no longer have a loan fee.
VET FEE-HELP
The VET FEE-HELP Assistance Scheme is an extension of FEE-HELP. It assists eligible
students undertaking certain VET courses of study (diploma, advanced diploma, graduate
certificate and graduate diploma courses) with an approved VET provider to pay for all or
part of their tuition costs.
Eligible students can borrow up to the FEE-HELP limit over their lifetime. A loan fee of 20
per cent applies to all VET FEE-HELP loans for all full fee-paying students. From 1 July
2009, in jurisdictions that agreed to undertake reform of their VET system, certain state
government subsidised students enrolled in diplomas or advanced diplomas became
eligible for VET FEE-HELP loans. These students are not required to pay the 20 per cent
loan fee.
In its initial full year of implementation, calendar year 2009, 3498 students were assisted
by VET FEE-HELP. This figure is lower than initial estimates based on data available at the
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Annual Report 2009-10
time from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research. However, indications
are that for the remainder of the 2009–10 period there was a marked increase in the
uptake rate for VET FEE-HELP loans.
Effectiveness indicators
Table 3.4
Effectiveness indicators for Program 3.2
Performance indicator
Estimate Actual
Percentage of the relevant full-time higher education student population3
receiving support under:
HECS-HELP
88%
88%
FEE-HELP
4.2%
4.2%
a Undergraduate and postgraduate students attending Table A higher education providers.
HECS-HELP
In 2009, 88 per cent of full-time students received HECS-HELP, compared with 88.1 per
cent in 2008.
FEE-HELP
In 2009, 4.2 per cent of full-time students received FEE-HELP, the same proportion as in
2008.
Program 3.3 Tertiary Student Assistance
Program objective
The government is committed to increasing the proportion of Australians with
qualifications and through COAG has set targets in order to secure Australia’s long-term
economic prosperity. It acknowledges the financial difficulties that some students and
their families may experience in undertaking higher education and vocational education
and training. Measures to encourage and assist young people to remain in education and
training are an important part of the government’s strategy in achieving its targets.
Student income support is provided through programs such as Youth Allowance, Austudy
and ABSTUDY.
Consistent with its goals of ensuring that students from low SES backgrounds will make
up 20 per cent of undergraduate enrolments by 2020 and that 40 per cent of all 25–34year-olds will have a qualification at bachelor degree or higher by 2025, the government
introduced a number of new student income support measures, which took effect on 1
April 2010. The measures form the first stage of the government’s package of student
income support reforms in response to the Bradley Review.
The reforms included the introduction of a Student Start-up Scholarship as an entitlement
to all higher education students in receipt of a student income support payment. Eligible
recipients may receive two half-yearly scholarship payments of $650 in 2010.
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Annual Report 2009-10
The Relocation Scholarship is paid to full-time dependent students receiving Youth
Allowance or ABSTUDY who have to live away from home to study a higher education or
preparatory course at a higher education institution. It is also available to young
independent higher education students who are unable to live in the family home due to
extenuating circumstances. The Relocation Scholarship provides $4000 to eligible
students in the first year of study and $1000 in each subsequent year.
Other initiatives include reducing the age of independence from 25 years to 22 years, in a
phased implementation. The age of independence was lowered to 24 years from 1 April
2010 and it will reach 22 years in 2012.
In addition, from 1 January 2010, equity and merit-based scholarships were exempted
from being treated as assessable income for means testing, up to the equivalent
combined value of the Commonwealth Education Costs Scholarship and the
Commonwealth Accommodation Scholarship, valued at $6762 in 2010. Scholarship
amounts in excess of this value will continue to be subject to means testing.
Table 3.5
Key performance indicators for Program 3.3
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Number of higher education students in receipt of
ABSTUDY at end June
5500
3486
Number of Australian Apprentices and students
attending a TAFE college or private training
institution in receipt of ABSTUDY at end June
5500
5181
11 000
8667
Number of higher education students in receipt of
Austudy at end June
18 000
21 456
Number of Australian Apprentices and students
attending a TAFE college or private training
institution in receipt of Austudy at end June
12 500
10 404
Total number of tertiary and VET students in receipt
of Austudy at end June
30 500
31 860
141 000
138 739
39 000
38 240
ABSTUDY—Tertiary and VET
Total number of tertiary and VET students in receipt
of ABSTUDY at end June
Austudy—Tertiary and VET
Youth Allowance—Tertiary and VET
Number of higher education students in receipt of
Youth Allowance at end June
Number of Australian Apprentices and students
attending a TAFE college or private training
institution in receipt of Youth Allowance at end June
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Total number of tertiary and VET students in receipt
of Youth Allowance at end June
Estimate
Actual
180 000
176 979
This table shows largely underperforming results for the Tertiary Student Assistance
program. The categories with better than expected results include the number of higher
education students in receipt of Austudy at the end of June (18,000 estimated, 21,456
actual), and the total number of tertiary and VET students in receipt of Austudy over the
same period (30,500 estimated, 31,860 actual).
ABSTUDY—Tertiary and VET
From their introduction on 1 April 2010, 149 718 recipients of student payments received
the Student Startup Scholarship in 2009–10. The Relocation Scholarship was paid to 19
116 students.
The number of higher education students, VET students and Australian Apprentices
receiving ABSTUDY increased by 10.1 per cent to 8667 in June 2010 from 7871 in June
2009.
Austudy—Tertiary and VET
In June 2010, 31 860 higher education students, VET students and Australian
Apprentices were in receipt of Austudy, reflecting a 4.2 per cent decrease since June
2009 when there were 33 208 recipients.
Youth Allowance—Tertiary and VET
There was little change in the number of higher education students, VET students and
Australian Apprentices in receipt of Youth Allowance (student), increasing to 176 979
recipients in June 2010 from 176 645 recipients in June 2009.
In June 2010, the number of Australian Apprentices receiving income support included in
these figures was 4479, which is a 10.2 per cent increase on the number of apprentices
since June 2009 when there were 4064 recipients.
Program 3.4 Vocational Education and Training
Program objective
Outcomes in VET are achieved in partnership with external stakeholders, particularly
state and territory governments and industry. Under the National Agreement for Skills
and Workforce Development, the government contributes around one-third of funding for
the public VET system with states and territories contributing the remainder.
Developed through COAG processes, the agreement forms part of the new arrangements
for federal financial relations which began at the start of 2009 and which aim to facilitate
the improvement of the quality and effectiveness of government services.
The agreement sets out the commitment between the Australian Government and states
and territories to work towards increasing the skill levels of all Australians, including
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Annual Report 2009-10
Indigenous Australians. As part of the agreement, states and territories have committed
to ensuring the effective operation of the training system.
Under the agreement, the government is providing an estimated $6.7 billion over four
years from 1 January 2009, with specific targets for increasing the qualifications of the
working age population. States have greater flexibility to target funding to address
individual state needs and to achieve agreed VET outcomes. In particular, states and
territories now have full responsibility for the maintenance and support of public training
infrastructure and the VET workforce in their jurisdictions.
The agreement incorporates the following agreed COAG effectiveness key performance
indicators:
●
proportion of the working age population at literacy level 1, 2 and 3 (the lowest of
five levels)
●
proportion of 20–64-year-olds who do not have a qualification at or above Certificate
III
●
proportion of graduates employed after completing training, by previous
employment status
●
percentage of graduates with improved employment status after training
●
number of hard-to-fill vacancies
●
proportion of people employed at or above the level of their qualification, by field of
study.
Targets specified in the agreement to be achieved through the training system between
2009 and 2020 include:
●
doubling the completions of higher VET qualifications (diploma and advanced
diploma)
●
halving the proportion of Australians aged 20–64 years who do not have
qualifications at or above Certificate III.
The COAG Reform Council was established as part of the new arrangements for federal
financial relations to assist in driving the reform agenda. The council aims to strengthen
accountability for the achievement of results through independent and evidenced-based
monitoring, assessment and reporting of the performance of all governments.
Table 3.6
Key performance indicators for Program 3.4
Performance indicator
This program is being delivered through National
Partnerships with the states and territories.
Indicators will be available as part of the COAG
reporting arrangements
Estimate Actual
—
—
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Annual Report 2009-10
Actual agreed KPIs will be available through the COAG Reform Council as part of the
COAG reporting arrangements.
Effectiveness indicators
Table 3.7
Effectiveness indicators for Program 3.4
Performance indicator
Total number of students enrolled in publicly funded
VET system
Estimate
Actual
1.84 m 1.71 ma
a This figure, the latest available, is for the number of students enrolled in 2009.
Students enrolled in public VET system
The National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) publication Australian
Vocational Education and Training Statistics: Students and Courses 2009 was released on
30 June 2010 and provides the latest information available on VET students.
This publication shows that 1.71 million students were enrolled in publicly funded VET
during the 2009 calendar year. Although growth was smaller than in the previous year,
there is a progressive increase in the number of students.
Program 3.5 VET National Support
Program objective
As Australia emerges from the global recession, the government has provided national
leadership to ensure that the training system is flexible and responsive to the demand of
industry to overcome and address skills shortfalls.
VET is a core sector of Australia’s post-school education and training system. It
contributes to national productivity by supporting growth in skills and qualifications to
better enable Australians to enter the workforce for the first time, to re-enter the
workforce, to retrain for a new job and to upgrade from an existing job. This reflects the
government’s priority of lifting the skills base through encouraging Australian workers to
undertake VET qualifications, including high-level qualifications.
Through this program, the government provides substantial funding to encourage takeup of apprentices by employers and greater participation in training and to address
persistent disadvantage.
The government’s skills policy will help drive and deliver the jobs of the future, which will
promote increased workforce participation rates and productivity outcomes.
In order to achieve this policy, the government has:
●
increased training places through the Productivity Places Program
●
provided significant funding to modernise infrastructure for TAFEs and community
education providers
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
built stronger partnerships with industry and made the apprenticeship system more
responsive to the changing needs of business and apprentices
●
strengthened the transition from school to work so that more young people
complete Year 12 and get the right vocational training in and alongside the school
system
●
improved the literacy and numeracy skills of disadvantaged job seekers.
A priority for the government is to better link sustainable employment outcomes with a
full range of training that assists individuals with the skills they need for sustainable and
productive employment. Improved interaction and information sharing between the
sectors will lead to a number of improvements in the effectiveness and efficiency of state
funded and Commonwealth funded activities, including maximising the opportunities for
skills development and training focused on employment outcomes and workforce
development.
Australian Apprenticeship arrangements develop a more skilled Australian workforce that
delivers long-term benefits for the nation and our international competitiveness. The
government provides financial incentives to employers who employ and train an
Australian Apprentice (apprentice or trainee) and encourages employers to open up
genuine opportunities for skills-based training of their employees. The government also
funds a range of personal benefits for individual apprentices to encourage them to
complete their Australian Apprenticeship.
Pre-vocational training and support programs address barriers for vulnerable job seekers
who have expressed an interest in but cannot access an Australian Apprenticeship. These
programs provide early intervention to encourage vulnerable job seekers to pursue their
apprenticeship goal.
Funding for workforce development activities aims to meet industry’s skills development
needs through a range of activities, including liaison with employers, industry
organisations and industry skills councils. The funding also supports the implementation
of Australian Government, COAG and state and territory initiatives related to meeting
industry’s skills development needs.
Workforce Innovation Program—SkillGAP—an online workforce tool for
businesses
SkillGAP helps enterprises to analyse their skills requirements and identify labour and
skills gaps that need action.
Produced under the Workforce Innovation Program, the SkillGAP workforce analysis tool
was developed by a consortium of industry skills councils to support them in their
workforce development role and to inform their work in helping enterprises to develop
training, work systems and retention plans. The tool has significantly enhanced the level
of service provided by the councils and has enabled enterprises to innovatively align their
workforce and business development plans, increasing productivity and performance.
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The Workforce Innovation Program supports innovative pilot projects that address
workforce skill needs in order to improve the productivity, performance and sustainability
of industry sectors or regions. Other projects that have been funded have trialled
workforce development processes and illustrated the returns to enterprises on investing
in skills.
Growth funding to support additional training opportunities for job seekers and existing
workers in priority areas is provided through the National Partnership Agreement on
Productivity Places Program, which contributes to meeting the objectives and outcomes
identified in the National Agreement for Skills and Workforce Development. Funding was
provided to support a target of an additional 150 000 training places during 2009–10.
The government continues to fund programs and activities that seek to improve training
and employment access and outcomes for disadvantaged groups, including Indigenous
Australians, Australians with disability and Australians with poor LLN skills.
In improvements to regulation of the VET sector, from 2011, all RTOs that operate in
Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, the Australian Capital
Territory and the Northern Territory and all RTOs that operate in multiple jurisdictions or
enrol international students will be regulated by the new national VET Regulator. Western
Australia and Victoria will continue to regulate providers that only operate in their states
and do not have international students and will enact legislation that mirrors the new
Commonwealth legislation.
Amendments to the Australian Quality Training Framework were endorsed by COAG in
December 2009 to strengthen regulatory requirements for the VET sector. They will
strengthen standards for initial registration and conditions for continuing registration for
providers.
The overall aim of Program 3.5 is to achieve an increasing trend in the numbers of
apprenticeship commencements and completions, including an increasing trend in
Indigenous completions, as the program supports government initiatives to halve the gap
in employment between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. Government
initiatives to improve LLN in the workplace aim to have recipients of LLN support move
on to further training or employment. The effectiveness indicators for the program reflect
these.
Table 3.8
Key performance indicators for Program 3.5
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
28
28
93 717
99 395
141 389
139 973
Australian Apprenticeship Centres
Number of organisations contracted to provide services
Support for Australian Apprenticeships
Total number of employers assisted nationally
Total number of Australian Apprentices assisted
nationally through personal benefits
Australian Apprenticeship Workforce Skills Development
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Total number of job seekers assisted
61 800a
74 782
Total number of existing workers assisted
88 200a
50 855
-
888
27
25
386
571
1285
376
15 0003
13 112
15 200b
12 887
19 900
17 534c
191
331
31
31
18 000b
18 250
Productivity Places Program
Group Training in the Trades Program
Number of pre-vocational places supported in trade
areas
Targeted Initiatives Program
Number of group training organisations (GTOs)
supported
Number of apprentices through GTOs:
commencements
completions
Australian Apprenticeship Access Program
Number of eligible job seekers assisted
Workplace English Language and Literacy
Number of individuals assisted
Language, Literacy and Numeracy
Number of individuals assisted
Incentives for Higher Technical Skills
Number of employment-based training places created for
vocational diploma or above
National Disability Coordination Officers
Number of National Disability Coordination Officers
funded
National Programs
Joint Group Training Program
Number of Australian Apprentice commencements in
state/territory group training sub-programs
a Revised in accordance with the Portfolio Budget Statements 2010–11, Budget Related Paper No. 1.6,
Education, Employment and Workplace Relations Portfolio.
b This estimate was published in the 2009–10 Portfolio Additional Estimates Statements.
c Number of clients commenced by 9 June 2010 (latest data available).
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This table shows the key performance indicators for the VET National Support program.
The total number of employers assisted nationally was above that estimated, as were the
number of job seekers assisted through Australian Apprenticeship Workforce Skill
Development programs.
Australian Apprenticeships Centres
Australian Apprenticeships Centres are contracted by the Australian Government to
deliver Australian Apprenticeships support services, which include providing information
and assistance to employers, Australian Apprentices and others, marketing Australian
Apprenticeships and administering government incentive payments to employers and
allowances for Australian Apprentices.
Support for Australian Apprenticeships
Support for Australian Apprenticeships funds the Australian Apprenticeships Incentives
Program, which provides financial incentives to employers to encourage them to take on
apprentices, and provides some personal assistance to individual apprentices to help
them to undertake their apprenticeship. The program also provides a number of
additional incentives that support Australian Apprenticeships in trade occupations
experiencing a national skills shortage in recognition of the importance of maintaining the
flow of fully qualified tradespeople to support economic growth as the economy emerges
from the global recession.
Included under the Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Program was the time-limited
Apprentice Kickstart Bonus to encourage employers to restore trade apprentice
commencement to pre-global recession levels. The bonus tripled incentive payments in
the first year for employers of young people beginning a trade apprenticeship between 1
December 2009 and 28 February 2010.
The success of the program is demonstrated by the fact that, despite the global
recession, the number of employers assisted increased 4.3 per cent from 2008–09, only
slightly less than the 5.7 per cent growth recorded from 2007–08 to 2008–09. The total
number of Australian Apprentices assisted also grew marginally from 2008–09 to 2009–
10.
To build on the success of the initial Apprentice Kickstart program, which saw 24 400
young apprentices employed over the summer of 2009–10, the government announced,
as part of the recent Budget, the Apprentice Kickstart Extension.
Australian Apprenticeship Workforce Skills Development
Productivity Places Program
During 2008–09, the Australian Government was responsible for delivery arrangements
for the program, which in that year focused on job seekers, who received over 90 per
cent of all training delivered under this program.
Since the program’s inception in April 2008 to 30 June 2010 there have been over 235
000 new commencements in training and it is estimated that more than 80 000
Australians have completed training. All training is targeted at qualifications that are in
demand.
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Annual Report 2009-10
In 2009–10, under the National Partnership Agreement on Productivity Places Program,
states and territories became responsible for delivering training to both job seekers and
existing workers. To meet the demand for job seeker training and to ensure a smooth
transition to state and territory responsibility, the initial focus of state and territory effort
was job seekers; the focus of effort in future years is expected to be on existing workers.
In the Enterprise-Based Productivity Places Program, a sub-program of the PPP,
additional funding of $50 million was provided in 2009–10 by the Australian Government
for existing workers. The program aims to meet the training needs of workers in priority
occupations, which will also help to increase the productivity of their enterprises. Using
industry contributions in addition to government funding, the program will support almost
14 000 additional training places at Certificate III to Advanced Diploma levels. The
program is a partnership between enterprises, industry skills councils and the Australian
Government.
Group Training in the Trades Program
The Group Training in the Trades Program (GTTP) terminated after 2008–09 with no
places supported in 2009–10. However, it was decided to continue the prevocational
element of the GTTP as a new program, the Group Training in the Trades Prevocational
Program (GTTPP). Contracts with the GTTP brokers were extended for purposes of the
GTTPP and the program is still gaining momentum, with 888 places being supported in
2009–10.
2009 Australian Training Awards
DEEWR promotes excellence in achievement through its management of the high-profile
national Australian Training Awards. Awards are presented in a variety of categories to
learners, training providers and employers.
Two winners in the 2009 awards were Blake McCarthy and the Department of Corrective
Services, Western Australia.
Australian Apprentice of the Year, Blake McCarthy, is a firm believer in lifelong learning
who already holds more than 10 certificates and qualifications. While employed by a
group training organisation, Blake undertook not only his electrical apprenticeship but
also an extra Certificate IV qualification in instrumentation and control, so when he
finished his apprenticeship—six months ahead of schedule—he was a dual trade
instrumentation electrician.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Blake then went on to be one of only 20 out of almost 1000 applicants to gain a coveted
traineeship in process plant operations, and the youngest ever to be successful. The
traineeship includes study at TAFE and work at onshore and offshore oil and gas facilities.
Blake says, 'The best thing about learning and training is going to work and putting it into
practice. It all comes together and you understand. I get a lot of job satisfaction out of
that. Without my apprenticeship, I wouldn't be where I am today.'
The winner of the Australian Training Initiative Award was the Department of Corrective
Services, Western Australia. Its training arm has had considerable success in achieving
ongoing employment outcomes for prisoners on their release from jail, after giving them
both vocational and life skills while they were inmates.
In 2009, more than 1500 adult prisoners from across Western Australia were enrolled in
training for 11 different industries, including construction, hospitality, mining and
horticulture.
Many success stories have flowed from the department's innovative program, which aims
for better integration of prisoners back into the community. In the past two years, more
than 140 ex-prisoners in the metropolitan area alone have been successfully placed in
jobs, and 90 per cent of them were still in stable employment six months out of prison.
They include five female apprentice chefs who were placed in a high-end hospitality
establishment and who, two years later, are all still employed, and one male who
completed a work readiness program while in prison who is now a supervisor, nine
months after gaining employment in the mining industry.
Winning the Australian Training Initiative Award has given the model national recognition,
and generated a great deal of interest in possible extensions to other industries.
Group Training Australian Apprenticeships Targeted Initiatives Program
The Group Training Australian Apprenticeships Targeted Initiatives Program (TIP) funds
group training organisations to encourage innovation and growth in Australian
Apprenticeships in priority areas where neither would happen without intervention. The
program has been slowing down as current projects conclude: most were expected to
end in 2009–10, and no new projects began during the year. There are three reasons for
the lower than expected completions under TIP in the reporting period:
●
Some people who began later in the program had not yet completed their
apprenticeships.
●
Some of the projects that were expected to conclude in 2009–10 ran over time,
resulting in people in those projects remaining in training rather than completing as
expected.
●
The impact of the global recession on some employers meant that not all those
individuals who began an Australian Apprenticeship under TIP were able to complete
it.
Fast-Track Apprenticeships program
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Annual Report 2009-10
The Fast-Track Apprenticeships program provided grant funding to registered training
organisations to develop training delivery models to shorten apprenticeship training while
still meeting the skill requirements of employers and industry. This program ceased on 11
May 2010, and no new projects were approved under the program after that date.
A review of project activity funded through the program demonstrates that the program
achieved viable accelerated training for individuals at a local level with the support of
project funding. Over the life of the program, 183 projects were funded.
Australian Apprenticeship Access Program
The Australian Apprenticeship Access Program assists 9500 job seekers each year by
providing nationally recognised pre-vocational training, training in basic work and life
skills, pastoral care, advocacy, and intensive job search and post-placement support. In
2009–10, 5500 additional positions were allocated. Of those, 3650 places were to support
vulnerable young job seekers aged 19–24 years and 1850 places were made available to
support workers aged 25 years and over made redundant due to the global recession.
Slower than expected implementation of new Access Program Broker contracts in early
2009–10 resulted in slightly lower numbers of job seekers being assisted in 2009–10
than expected.
However, the additional allocation of places resulted in an 18 per cent increase in the
number of participants supported in 2009–10 compared with the previous year.
Workplace English Language and Literacy Program
During 2009–10, the Workplace English Language and Literacy Program received
additional funding to deliver 3000 additional places to support pre-employment
Indigenous Employment Program participants and workers aged 25 years and over who
were at risk of redundancy as a result of the global recession.
The number of individuals assisted through the program in 2009–10 was lower than
expected (see Table 3.9). This was partly due to the global recession, which caused some
enterprises to withdraw from training projects because they were unable to pay the
compulsory employer contribution, release employees for training, or both.
However, the available data, based on completions, is unlikely to represent all 2009–10
places because very few of the additional places in projects that began in 2009–10 had
completed by 30 June (projects run for an average of 12 months). Despite these
constraints, the program still achieved a 6 per cent growth in participants from the
previous year.
Language, Literacy and Numeracy Program
The Language, Literacy and Numeracy Program (LLNP) provides language, literacy and
numeracy training for eligible job seekers whose skills are below the level considered
necessary to secure sustainable employment or pursue further education or training.
Because the program contracts were due to expire on 30 June 2010, a request for tender
for LLNP services was publicly released on 18 November 2009, closing on 23 December
2009. The successful tenderers were announced on 26 May 2010.
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Annual Report 2009-10
The program continues to have good geographical coverage, with a distance provider
continuing to provide services in areas where there is low demand. Clients are now
remaining in program training for an additional 55 hours on average, a 25 per cent
increase on the previous average of 225 hours. At the same time, they are achieving
substantially improved LLN skills gains.
As part of the Building the Basics compact, the program continues to upskill, re-skill and
equip retrenched workers aged 25 and over to be competitive in the labour market. In
2009–10, 856 retrenched workers were referred to the LLNP to receive assistance; of
those, 554 began training.
The take-up of the additional program places provided in the Northern Territory as part of
the emergency response (NTER) exceeded expectations.
The level of engagement in LLNP training under the NTER has significantly increased
since July 2009. Indigenous engagement in the program is now around 32 per cent of
client engagement under the NTER, compared with 18 per cent during the years from
2006 to 2009.
Lessons learned in the Northern Territory
Difficulties in engaging Indigenous communities in the initial rollout of the LLNP have
been used to inform the development of a community-based model. The rate of referrals
over the six months to 30 June 2010 indicates that the groundwork on engagement is
coming to fruition.
At 30 April 2010, the total number of referrals to the LLNP (under NTER) was 322. Of
those referrals, 106 eligible job seekers had begun training and 14 participants had
completed LLNP training.
The government provided funding of $3 million over three years from 2009–10 for an
additional 162 LLNP places for Indigenous Australians across nine Indigenous
communities.
Incentives for Higher Technical Skills
Incentives for Higher Technical Skills (IHTS) supports training towards VET qualifications
at diploma level and above, outside apprenticeship arrangements, to address industry
needs for higher level skills. It also encourages articulation between VET and higher
education.
The trend over 2009–10 showed increased employment-based training places under the
Alternative Pathways component of IHTS non-Australian Apprenticeships. Future trends
are highly uncertain due to a planned review of IHTS non-Australian Apprenticeships in
2010–11.
National Disability Coordination Officers Program
The Australian Government’s National Disability Coordination Officers Program targets
the barriers that people with disability face in accessing and completing post-school
education and training and subsequently finding employment. A national network of
disability coordination officers operates in 31 regions across Australia to improve the
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Annual Report 2009-10
coordination and delivery of support services by improving transitions, increasing
participation and establishing better links between the education sector and disability
providers.
National programs
Joint Group Training Program
The Joint Group Training Program provides funding for group training organisations
develop strategies and initiatives which encourage and improve the commencements and
completions in Australian Apprenticeships in specific industry, regional and equity target
areas that meet state and national priorities. The program is managed by the states and
territories and includes an annual matched funding arrangement between the Australian
Government and the states and territories.
Effectiveness indicators
Table 3.9
Effectiveness indicators for Program 3.5
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Trend in Australian Apprenticeship commencements
290 920
271 443
Trend in Australian Apprenticeship completions
141 800
159 447
Trend in number of Indigenous Australian Apprenticeship
completions
3890
4489
Increase in the percentage of the Language, Literacy and
Numeracy Program participants who complete at least
one block of training and go on to further training or
employment
60%
60%
Trend in Australian Apprenticeship commencements and completions
From 2007 to 2009:
●
commencements in Australian Apprenticeships fell by 4401 (1.6 per cent)
●
commencements in Certificate III fell by 19 233 (9.8 per cent)
●
commencements at Certificate IV or above continued to increase strongly, rising by
55.1 per cent
●
the proportion of total commencements at
●
-
Certificate IV or above rose from 13.7 per cent to 21.5 per cent of total
-
Certificate I–II commencements fell from 15.3 per cent to 13.4 per cent of the
total
Australian Apprenticeship completions rose by 12 624 (8.6 per cent)
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
completions at Certificate III level increased by 6884 (6.5 per cent)
●
the proportion of total completions at
-
Certificate IV or above rose from 12.7 per cent to 15.2 per cent of total
-
Certificate I–II completions fell from 15.0 per cent to 14.0 per cent of the total.
A drop in Australian Apprenticeship commencements during an economic downturn is to
be expected but, as these figures show, the severity of the impact of the global recession
was mitigated by time-limited government interventions such as the Apprentice Kickstart
Bonus. It is also usual to see completion levels for Australian Apprenticeships increase
during times of economic uncertainty; however, the extent of the increase reflected in
these figures can also be attributed to tailored government interventions such as the
Securing Australian Apprenticeships Completion Bonus, payable under the Support for
Australian Apprenticeships Program.
Chart 3.2
Australian Apprenticeships commencements, 2007-2009 calendar
years
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Annual Report 2009-10
Chart 3.3
Australian Apprenticeships completions, 2007-2009 calendar years
Trend in number of Indigenous Australian apprenticeship completions
The number of Indigenous students completing Australian apprenticeships has increased
by 18.8 per cent since 2007. In 2009, higher level qualification completions increased by
38.3 per cent from 2007, and Certificate III completions increased by 15.8 per cent.
Over the same period, non-Indigenous completions increased by 8.3 per cent, higher
qualification completions increased by 29.5 per cent and Certificate III completions
increased by 6.3 per cent from 2007 levels. In 2009, the gap between Indigenous and
non-Indigenous completions at Certificate III level increased from 11.4 percentage points
in 2007 to 11.6 percentage points. Certificate IV level increased from 5.9 percentage
points to 7.3 percentage points (that is, by 23.2 per cent).
The non-Indigenous group includes those who did not self-identify as Indigenous.
Language, Literacy and Numeracy Program participants progressing to training
or employment
At May 2010 (latest data available), the number of participants in the LLNP completing
one block of training and progressing to further training or employment had increased
from 58 per cent in 2008–09 to 60 per cent.
Program 3.6 International Education Support
Program objective
Over 2009–10, during a time of substantial change, the international arm of the
department, Australian Education International (AEI), worked to promote the sustainable
development of Australia’s international education and training sector, to ensure that it
continues to be recognised as world-class and globally connected.
AEI worked to achieve these objectives through strengthening regional and governmentto-government links, supporting student and academic mobility through scholarships,
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Annual Report 2009-10
fellowships and exchange programs, developing professional qualifications and skills
recognition, and increasing the profile of Australia’s international education sector. In late
2009, AEI continued promotion and sector development activities under the Study In
Australia 2010 initiative, including professional development seminars for education
agents, research into students’ experiences of studying in Australia and a program to
support visits by international journalists.
More recently, a number of factors have affected the delivery of international education,
including the changing value of the Australian dollar, the global recession, changes to
Australia’s skilled migration program and strengthened quality requirements for
providers.
AEI worked in close collaboration with other Australian Government agencies, all state
and territory governments and key stakeholders across the international education sector
to put in place a range of initiatives to improve the wellbeing and welfare of international
students. Those initiatives included bringing forward a review of the Education Services
for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 and the development of COAG’s International
Students Strategy for Australia.
In addition, during 2009–10, the government decided to transfer responsibility for the
marketing and promotion of international education from AEI to Austrade from 1 July
2010.
AEI used these changes as an opportunity to refocus its core role in international
education to government-to-government relationships and policy development. In
preparation for its new role, in late 2009, AEI began consulting stakeholders across the
sector under the banner of Re:New AEI. The Re:New AEI process will culminate in the
development of a new five-year strategic plan for AEI with a greater focus on leading
strategic policy development, regulation and government to government engagement to
support Australia’s international education sector.
Table 3.10 Key performance indicators for Program 3.6
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Number of funding recipients supported by the
Professional Services Development Program
12
7
Number of projects and/or activities funded by
Regional Links
20
15
Number of projects and/or activities funded by the
Increased Profile of Australian International
Education Sector program
10
10
Number of international scholarships, fellowships
and exchange opportunities supported (Endeavour
program)
1625
1806
International Education and Training
Assessment Fee Subsidy for Overseas Trained Australian Residents
Number of eligible clients supported
500
519
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Annual Report 2009-10
This table shows the results for the International Education Support program. The
categories with better than expected results include the number of supported
international scholarships, fellowships and exchange opportunities (1,625 estimated,
1,806 actual), and the number of overseas-trained Australian residents receiving an
Assessment Fee Subsidy (500 estimated, 519 actual).
International education and training
Professional Services Development Program
The Professional Services Development Program facilitates international mobility for
professionals. In 2009–10, AEI funded seven projects, which were fewer but larger than
in previous years, and contributed a total of $380 000 for work by Australian
organisations towards the international recognition of Australian professional
qualifications and skills and the recognition in Australia of professional qualifications and
skills gained overseas.
Regional Links Program
The Regional Links Program develops and strengthens relationships, particularly in the
Asia–Pacific region, for the benefit of the Australian education and training industry. This
was achieved in 2009–10 through the funding of 15 projects in research, education and
training, as well as bilateral and multilateral activities to foster government-togovernment, institution-to-institution and people-to-people links.
Increasing the Profile of Australia’s International Education Sector program
In 2009–10, $1.385 million was allocated to the Increasing the Profile of Australia’s
International Education Sector program, which supports projects to meet the objectives
of enhancing cooperation in education between Australia and the European Union and to
increase student mobility between Australia and Europe, including the development of
joint and double degree programs between Australian and European education providers.
International scholarships, fellowships and exchange opportunities
Endeavour Awards
The Endeavour Awards are Australia’s only global, merit-based scholarship program for
both outgoing and incoming students, researchers and professionals. The awards build
enduring regional links and foster closer educational, professional and research ties
between Australia and participating countries. The Endeavour Awards consist of
Endeavour Executive Awards, Endeavour Research Fellowships, Endeavour Research
Fellowships for Indigenous Australians, Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Research
Fellowships, Endeavour Postgraduate Awards, Endeavour Vocational Education and
Training Awards and Endeavour Europe Awards.
The awards aim to provide opportunities for high-achieving individuals to increase their
skills and enhance their global awareness. There were 538 award recipients, including
132 Australians who undertook study, research or professional development
internationally as part of the Endeavour Awards in 2009–10. Table 3.11 identifies award
recipients by type for 2009–10.
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Annual Report 2009-10
The Endeavour Awards are a part of the Australia Awards initiative, which was announced
by the government in November 2009.
Table 3.11 2009-10 Endeavour Awards
Award type
Australian
recipients
International
recipients
Total
Endeavour Executive Awards
37
100
137
Endeavour Research Fellowships
89
133
222
Endeavour Research Fellowships for
Indigenous Australians
1
n/a
1
Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong
Research Fellowships
5
5
10
Endeavour Postgraduate Awards
n/a
93
93
Endeavour Vocational Education &
Training Awards
n/a
60
60
Endeavour Europe Awards
n/a
15
15
132
406
538
Total
Prime Minister’s Australia Asia Awards
In 2009–10, $14.9 million was committed over four years to create a prestigious
international scholarship initiative that will provide an opportunity for high-calibre
scholars from Australia and Asia to gain international study, research and industry
experience.
The Prime Minister’s Australia Asia Awards aim to build deep and enduring education and
professional networks between Australia and Asia and provide an opportunity for
Australian universities and the Australian Government to work in partnership to identify
and reward high-calibre scholars.
The program’s inaugural round funded a total of 50 university-level applicants. Of the
awardees, 19 were undergraduate Australians, 21 were postgraduate Australians and 10
were international PhD scholars.
Prime Minister's Australia Asia Award
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Study and an internship in China will form Patrick Mayoh's program as one of 20
Australian undergraduate recipients of the inaugural Prime Minister's Australia Asia
Awards.
Patrick, who is studying for Bachelors of Law and Asia-Pacific Studies (Chinese) at the
Australian National University (ANU) and is president of the ANU chapter of the AustraliaChina Youth Association, has an extensive involvement with China. A past scholarship
recipient with the Australia-China Council Alumni, he worked in Beijing during the 2008
Olympic Games and came third in the international 'Chinese Bridge' Chinese language
competition.
Patrick will travel to China as a visiting student at Peking University, Beijing, where he
will study international relations, foreign affairs, domestic and international law and
Chinese politics. His study will focus on China's development progress and how that
progress affects international relations. He will also study to further enhance his
proficiency in the Chinese language.
At the completion of his study, Patrick will then undertake an internship in China.
Of his award experience to date, Patrick said, 'Not only is the award incredibly generous
on paper, the support offered has been outstanding.'
Australia Awards
The Australia Awards were announced by the government in November 2009. The awards
have been established to maximise the benefit to Australia from our extensive
scholarship programs, and to support enduring ties between Australia and our
neighbours.
The Australia Awards will bring together the international development awards
administered by the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) and the
DEEWR Endeavour Awards under a single recognisable brand. The Australia Awards are
being progressively phased in, beginning in the 2010 academic year.
International Student Exchange
In 2009–10, the Australian Government allocated $6 million to three international
student exchange programs: University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific; the Endeavour
Student Exchange Program; and the Endeavour Cheung Kong Student Exchange
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Program. The programs support the government’s objective of building international
linkages between Australian and overseas institutions and enrich the educational
experience of the participating students.
In 2009–10, the programs enabled 1104 students to participate in student exchange in
Australia and overseas. The program also included funding to support 98 staff visits
overseas.
VET Outbound Mobility Program
The VET Outbound Mobility Program aims to increase the mobility of Australian VET
students and increase the level of partnership activity between Australian education and
training providers and/ or industry and their international counterparts. In 2009–10, the
program provided $466 193 to fund 16 projects valued at up to $35 000 per project.
Assessment Subsidy for Overseas Trained Australian Residents
The Assessment Subsidy for Overseas Trained Professionals program addresses
Australian skills shortages and facilitates labour market mobility through the effective
integration of unemployed or underemployed individuals with professional skills gained
overseas. It provides assistance to eligible overseas-trained professionals for the cost of
approved examinations that must be passed to qualify for employment in certain
professions in Australia. In 2009–10, $759 000 was provided to cover examination fees.
The department administers the program in cooperation with Centrelink.
International government-to-government and multilateral engagement
Free trade agreements
The department continued work on eliminating barriers to trade in education and training
through the education service components of the Australian Government’s free trade
agreement (FTA) negotiating agenda.
FTA negotiations towards a Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement began in March
2010. The TPP will expand on the current Trans-Pacific Strategic Economic Partnership
Agreement between Brunei Darussalam, Chile, New Zealand and Singapore, which
entered into force in 2006. The United States, Peru and Vietnam will also participate in
the TPP negotiations.
The ASEAN–Australia–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement entered into force on 1
January 2010. The department has submitted an activity proposal relating to education
and training governance under the FTA’s Economic Cooperation Work Program.
FTA negotiations, from which positive outcomes are expected, continued with Korea,
China, Japan, Malaysia and the Gulf Cooperation Council. The department also supported
Australia’s engagement with the World Trade Organization’s Doha round of multilateral
trade negotiations and participated in preparatory scoping studies for FTA negotiations
with India and Indonesia.
Asia–Pacific Economic Cooperation
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The department represented the Australian Government at the 32nd meeting of the Asia–
Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Human Resources Development Working Group,
which convened in Hiroshima, Japan, in February 2010. The department reported on its
completed APEC projects and current project activities.
Within the working group, the department is currently managing and funding the Higher
Education Diploma Supplement Project through the Regional Links Program, supported by
six other APEC economies. The project, which is 80 per cent funded by APEC, aims to
raise awareness of diploma supplements, canvass support for the development of a
model Asia–Pacific Diploma Supplement, and identify economies’ capacity-building needs
for implementation.
East Asia Summit
The East Asia Summit (EAS) has five key priority areas, one of which is education. In
2009, at the 4th EAS leaders meeting, Australia offered to work with the Association of
Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Secretariat on the formation of a taskforce of senior
education officials, and the convening of two workshops in Jakarta and elsewhere in the
region in 2010, in order to progress education cooperation activities in the EAS.
Using funding sourced from AusAID, the department provided assistance for the first of
the two workshops, which was held on 10–12 May 2010 at the offices of the ASEAN
Secretariat in Jakarta, Indonesia. Twenty-two country representatives from across the
EAS region participated in the workshop, which was highly successful. The taskforce
reaffirmed the importance of regional cooperation on education and exploring areas of
common and complementary interest.
Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization
Australia is an associate member of Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization
(SEAMEO) and was represented at the 2010 SEAMEO Council Meeting in Cebu, the
Philippines. This was a unique opportunity to engage directly with SEAMEO education
ministers. With assistance from the department’s Regional Links Program, the 10th
Australia–SEAMEO Press Award was awarded at the 2010 council meeting. The awards
are valued at up to $10 000 and provide for travel to and support in Australia for
awardees to undertake a journalism internships for up to three weeks.
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
The department’s involvement with the education work of the United Nations Educational,
Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is focused regionally on information
sharing and qualifications recognition under the Regional Convention on the Recognition
of Studies, Diplomas and Degrees in Higher Education in Asia and the Pacific. UNESCO is
a key player in regional work on the recognition of qualifications and efforts towards
harmonisation of qualifications.
In support of UNESCO’s efforts to promote cross-border provision of education, the
department provided funding through the Regional Links Program for dissemination and
promotion activities relating to the UNESCO–OECD Guidelines on Quality Provision in
Cross-Border Higher Education.
Latin America
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The department, through its involvement in the Education Action Group of the Council on
Australia Latin America Relations, supported an education delegation to Latin America in
March 2010. The delegation focused on Mexico, Colombia and Brazil and was led by
Professor Margaret Gardner, chair of the Education Action Group and Vice Chancellor and
President of RMIT University.
Government-to-government activities
Japan
The second Australia–Japan High Level Education Policy Dialogue was held in Canberra on
12 October 2009. Funded through the Regional Links Program, the dialogue between
DEEWR and the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
focused on higher education quality assurance, education learning outcomes and student
mobility.
Republic of Korea
The first Australia–Korea Joint Committee Policy Dialogue on Education was held in
Canberra on 12 March 2010, funded through the Regional Links Program. A range of
topics were discussed, and both governments committed to continuing dialogue.
Americas
In October 2009, the Hon Julia Gillard MP, then Deputy Prime Minister, visited the United
States and participated in a range of government-to-government activities. Minister
Gillard met with key figures in the United States Administration, including Secretary of
State Hillary Clinton and Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. The education relationship
between Australia and the United States was strengthened by the signing of an
agreement of collaboration during Minister Gillard’s visit.
In April 2010, the Minister for Employment Participation, Senator the Hon Mark Arbib,
visited Washington DC and New York to attend the G20 Labour and Employment
Ministers Meeting. The Minister met with Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis and with other
senior government, business and industry representatives to discuss employment, labour
standards, green skills and workforce training.
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
His Excellency Dr Khalid Al Ankary, Minister for Higher Education for Saudi Arabia, visited
Australia to sign a Memorandum of Higher Education Cooperation between Australia and
Saudi Arabia with the Hon Julia Gillard MP, the former Minister for Education, on 27 May
2010.
China
China and Australia strengthened their engagement in international education through
the jointly held 2nd China–Australia Workshop for International Student Management and
Services. The workshop, which was held in Canberra, explored best practices in the
management and care of international students. Participants included more than 40
representatives from government agencies, education institutions and Chinese students
currently studying in Australia.
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India
The Hon Kapil Sibal, India’s Minister for Human Resource Development, was in Australia
from 6 to 9 April 2010, visiting Perth, Melbourne and Sydney. The Hon Julia Gillard MP,
former Minister for Education, and Minister Sibal signed a joint ministerial statement on 8
April 2010 expanding existing exchange programs between Australia and India to include
greater cooperation across all education sectors. The statement also includes the
development of a new Australia–India Education Council.
Australia-India bilateral cooperation on education and training
During a visit to Australia in April 2010, India's Minister for Human Resource
Development, the Hon Kapil Sibal, and the former Minister for Education, the Hon Julia
Gillard, signed a joint ministerial statement reaffirming a commitment to include greater
cooperation across all education sectors. The ministers also agreed to the establishment
of an Australia-India Education Council, the first bi-national body of its kind to be
established between India and another country. Minister Sibal confirmed India's interest
in creating its own National Qualifications Framework.
Both Australia and India recognise the valuable contribution that education, particularly
VET, plays in improving skills that help increase productivity, enhance employability and
strengthen competitiveness. In February 2010, the department hosted an Australia-India
VET Mission. The mission was the first high-level delegation of Indian Government
officials and industry representatives to Australia to pursue collaboration within the VET
sector.
Areas of interest that were identified by delegates included VET teacher training, industry
skills councils, Australia's Qualifications Framework, quality assurance arrangements and
opportunities for government exchanges and professional development. The mission
achieved its goal of increasing understanding of Australia's VET system and identifying
practical opportunities for India-Australia VET collaboration.
The Australia-India bilateral education relationship is supported by a memorandum of
understanding on education cooperation. A successful joint working group of senior
officials was conducted in late 2009, which included the establishment of the Bureau of
Vocational Education and Training Collaboration to guide and facilitate continuing
collaboration in vocational education and training between Australia and India. The
bureau will focus on developing links between governments, institutions and industry.
The next working group is scheduled for late 2010 in Australia.
Education Services for Overseas Students legislative framework
The department administers the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS)
legislative framework, which includes the National Code of Practice for Registration
Authorities and Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students (the National
Code) 2007. The ESOS legislation and related instruments set out the responsibilities and
standards for the conduct of providers delivering education and training to international
students. They also provide a tuition protection framework for international students.
During 2009–10, the Australian Government brought forward the planned review of the
ESOS legislative framework and commissioned the Hon Bruce Baird AM to undertake the
review. Mr Baird’s report, Stronger, simpler, smarter ESOS: Supporting international
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students, was released on 9 March 2010 by the former Minister for Education, the Hon
Julia Gillard MP. In releasing the report, the Minister indicated a staged approach to the
government’s response to the recommendations. The first set of legislative changes
addressing a number of the review recommendations was introduced to Parliament in
June 2010. Consideration of the remainder of the recommendations is to follow
consultation with stakeholders.
In addition to the review of the ESOS legislative framework, the government also
responded to concerns about the quality of education delivery by strengthening the
provider registration requirements of the ESOS Act. Amendments to the ESOS Act,
enacted in March 2010, required all providers delivering education and training to
international students to be reregistered under the strengthened conditions by 31
December 2010. Amendments to the Act also required greater transparency in providers’
use of education agents.
Protecting international students
A key aim of the ESOS legislative framework is to protect the rights of international
students who are in Australia on student visas. The rapid increase in the size of the
international education sector over previous years gave rise to a number of concerns
during 2009–10, including increasing concern about the welfare of international students.
The Australian Government responded to these emerging issues through a number of
different initiatives. In addition to implementing the reregistration of providers and the
government’s response to the Baird Review of the ESOS Act, the department also
participated in the development of the International Student Strategy for Australia by
COAG.
Consumer protection played a large role in the department’s activities during 2009–10.
Students were offered assistance under the various levels of the consumer protection
framework to allow them to continue to receive a quality education in Australia.
Information brochures were produced for providers listed on the Register of Institutions
and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) and for overseas students, with useful
suggestions on what to consider when using education agents.
Policy development on emerging issues, strategic research and promotional
activities
International Student Strategy for Australia
The department contributed to the development of the International Student Strategy for
Australia, an initiative of COAG, to enhance the quality of the student experience in
Australia and thereby support the sustainability of Australia’s international education
sector.
International Students Roundtable
Convened in September 2009, the International Students Roundtable brought together
31 international students from across Australia to discuss matters affecting their study
experience in Australia, such as accommodation, welfare and safety. The outcomes from
the roundtable informed the development of COAG’s International Students Strategy for
Australia and the Baird Review of ESOS.
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Effectiveness indicators
Table 3.12 Effectiveness indicators for Program 3.6
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Trends in the number of international student
enrolments with Australian institutions
542 936
631 935
Trends in the number of international student
enrolments for higher level qualifications
80 985
89 098
Trends in the number of international student enrolments with Australian
institutions
Enrolments from international students on student visas in Australia reached 631 935
during the 2009 calendar year—a 16.8 per cent increase from the previous year. This
included a 10 per cent increase in enrolments in higher level (postgraduate)
qualifications.
The largest numbers of enrolments were in the VET sector (see Chart 3.4), which
experienced growth of 33.3 per cent in 2009—the highest growth rate of any sector. The
second largest sector was higher education, which increased by 12.1 per cent from the
previous year. The English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students sector
experienced significant growth of 7.5 per cent in 2009. Enrolments in the schools sector
fell by 2.9 per cent.
Chart 3.4
International student enrolments, 2006 to 2009, by sector
Data source: AEI Pivot All Detailed (December 2009 data).
a ELICOS = English language intensive courses for overseas students
b Other = courses not classified in the Australian Qualifications Framework
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Annual Report 2009-10
Trends in the number of international students studying for higher level
qualifications
There has been growth in enrolments for higher level (postgraduate) qualifications over
the past four years. Between 2008 and 2009, bachelor degree courses recorded the
greatest increase in the number of enrolments. However, postgraduate research courses
showed the highest percentage growth in enrolments.
Table 3.13 International students studying for higher level qualifications, 2006
to 2010
Enrolment numbers
% growth on previous year
Level of study
2006
2007
2008
2009
2006
2007
2008
2009
Bachelor degree
97 156
97 783
100 679
114 213
2.0
0.6
3.0
13.4
Postgraduate
coursework
64 481
67 725
70 913
77 520
7.5
5.0
4.7
9.3
7987
8782
9832
11 591
7.5
10.0
12.0
17.9
169 624 174 290 181 424 203 324
4.3
2.8
4.1
12.1
Postgraduate research
Total
This table shows the increase in international students studying for higher level
qualifications between 2006 and 2009. 2008-2009 saw 12.1% growth.
National Economic Benefit
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, in 2009 the international education and
training sector was Australia’s third largest export industry behind coal and iron ore,
contributing $18.6 billion in education exports to the Australian economy.
Departmental outputs for Outcome 3
Table 3.14 Departmental outputs performance information
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
All programs to meet
relevant administrative
targets set by quality
assurance processes in
DEEWR
All payments are made in
accordance with
administrative targets set
by quality assurance
processes
Program management
Payments are made in accordance
with approved timelines
Payments made are based on
All programs to meet
calculations which are accurate and relevant administrative
in accordance with approved
targets set by quality
guidelines
assurance processes in
DEEWR
Payments made by all
programs were accurate
and met relevant
administrative targets
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Higher Education Equity Programs: Payments made to 38
Payments made to all
Payments made are based on
Table A universities in
eligible higher education
calculations which are accurate and 2009 2010 estimate is 38 providers.
in accordance with approved
guidelines
High-quality secretariat support is
Three meetings of IHEAC Three meetings held
provided to the Indigenous Higher
are held annually
Provision of IHEAC policy
Education Advisory Council (IHEAC)
advice
as it delivers high quality policy
facilitated
advice to the Deputy Prime Minister
and to DEEWR. Support is measured
through the satisfaction of the
Council
Timeliness of Parliamentary reports At least 90% meet
(including interim responses where deadline
appropriate) provided to Parliament
and its Committees
Satisfied
High-quality Ministerial replies as
measured by the level of
satisfaction of Ministers and
Parliamentary Secretaries with the
quality and timeliness of the replies
Qualitative evaluation of Satisfied3
satisfaction using
feedback from the
Ministers and
Parliamentary Secretaries
to the Secretary
Annual National Report of the
Australian Vocational and Technical
Education System is tabled in the
Australian Parliament
Annual National Report
for 2008 is tabled in the
Australian Parliament by
October 2009
The Annual National
Report was tabled in the
Australian Parliament in
December 2009
Services provided by Australian
Government agencies (e.g.
Centrelink) satisfy performance
requirements
DEEWR requirements
met
Centrelink satisfied the
majority of the key
performance measures in
the Bilateral Management
Arrangement (see section
below)
Number of subscribers to the AEI
Market Information Package
Monthly average: 160
organisation subscribers
147
Number of subscribers to the AEI e- 15 000
newsletter
8381
Number of visits to the AEI Study in Monthly average number 160 024
Australia website
of visits:
300 000
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Timely and relevant information
provided by AEI websites and
publications
Content on AEI Online
and Study In Australia
Website updated at least
once a year, or as
required Country
Education Profiles Online
updated as planned
12 new Country
Education Profiles were
published and 38 other
Country Education
Profiles were updated in
2009-10
High-quality delivery of Australian
At least 85% satisfaction
Apprenticeships Support Services,
by employers and
Australian Apprenticeships Centres Australian Apprentices
as measured by satisfaction surveys
undertaken in 2008
At the national level,
overall employer
satisfaction was 90.5%
and Australian
Apprentices satisfaction
was 93.2%
Satisfaction with bilateral, regional,
multilateral and stakeholder
relationships which augment
Australia's international
engagement in education and
training
More than 80% client
satisfaction rating
Targets met
Satisfaction with AEI Industry
Seminars
More than 80%
satisfaction rating by
participants
Not held
Satisfaction with AEI information in
publications and websites
More than 80% client
satisfaction with AEI
information
Targets met
Client satisfaction
Policy services
High-quality policy advice as
measured by the level of
satisfaction of Ministers and
Parliamentary Secretaries with the
quality and timeliness of policy
advice
Qualitative evaluation of Satisfieda
satisfaction using
feedback from the
Ministers and
Parliamentary Secretaries
to the Secretary
High-quality research and
evaluation reports as measured by
the level of satisfaction of Ministers
and Parliamentary Secretaries with
the quality and timeliness of the
reports
Qualitative evaluation of Satisfieda
satisfaction using
feedback to the Secretary
from Ministers and
Parliamentary Secretaries
Research activities are completed
according to plan
At least 90% completed
to plan
Satisfied
a During the year, ministers, parliamentary secretaries and their staff provide feedback on the level of
satisfaction with departmental advice during regular meetings with the department. Overall feedback from their
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Annual Report 2009-10
offices is that they recognise the significant efforts made by departmental staff to meet their requirements. The
volume of written material provided to the ministers and parliamentary secretaries remained steady over 2009–
10. The department provided training to staff and monitored the quality of ministerial correspondence and
briefings.
This table shows the departmental outputs in program management, client satisfaction
and policy services.
Bilateral management arrangement
The bilateral management arrangement between Centrelink, the Department of Human
Services and DEEWR provides a framework for all three agencies to deliver outcomes in
employment, education and child care. The arrangement contains a confidence
framework developed to monitor the strength and success of the relationship between
agencies and to assure the parties that policy and program outcomes are being achieved.
Overall, Centrelink’s performance against the confidence framework was satisfactory
during 2009–10.
New claims for Youth Allowance (student), Austudy and ABSTUDY were processed within
agreed timeframes. Payment accuracy for Youth Allowance (student), Austudy and
ABSTUDY, assessed through the Random Sample Survey Program, was lower than 95 per
cent, reflecting the particular characteristics of those payments. The rate of growth of the
income support debt base for current and former student payment recipients increased
from the previous year.
Referral number targets for the Language, Literacy and Numeracy Program (LLNP) were
met for the financial year. Centrelink made more than 26 800 referrals to the LLNP
during 2009–10, exceeding the estimate of 24 296 for the year. The department will
continue to monitor and work with Centrelink to improve the conversion of referrals to
the LLNP into placements. Less than half of all referrals have been placed into the
program. This aspect of performance showed an improvement over the fourth quarter of
2009–10. Centrelink has implemented information technology changes to ensure that
only eligible candidates are referred, and this will improve placement rates.
During the year, policy for the Australian Apprenticeships Access Program was reviewed
and a new target was agreed. Centrelink’s performance in relation to the program is
below the required revised estimate. Performance may have been affected by a number
of elements, including the new Access Program broker contracts that began in January
2010 and a new geographic coverage model, which will see the Access Program delivered
in some locations for the first time. DEEWR and Centrelink are working together to
improve Centrelink’s referral rates.
Performance Indicator
Estimate
Actual
24 296
26 882
6000
7967
Referrals
Number of Centrelink referrals to Literacy, Language
and Numeracy Program
Number of Centrelink referrals to the Access Program
Random Sample Survey Program
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Annual Report 2009-10
The Random Sample Survey Program provides assurance about the accuracy of student
income support payments. For the purposes of the program, Outcome 2 and Outcome 3
reviews are reported together.
Recipients are randomly selected for a review from the population for each payment type.
The program is a point-in-time assessment of recipient circumstances and is designed to
establish the value of total outlays accurately paid and to provide reasons for any debt,
error or change in the payment rate. The program provides benchmark data on the level
of inaccurate payments.
The 2009–10 Random Sample Survey Program conducted approximately 3750 reviews
(see Table 3.15).
Table 3.15 Level of payment accuracy determined from random sample surveys
for student income su payments, 2009-10
Payment type
Rate of accuracy (%)
ABSTUDY
84.2
Austudy
89.5
Youth Allowance (student)
91.7
Total
91.1
(+ 1.0%)
Source: DEEWR random sample surveys.
Note: Figures are based on a statistical estimation of the level of accuracy of payments. Student payments are
surveyed over two periods throughout the financial year; 1 July to 31 October and 1 March to 30 June. The
reported results are based on preliminary data from the two survey periods and are subject to revision.
Reviews of recipients’ compliance
Information obtained from Centrelink’s Integrated Review System shows that 142 123
student payment reviews were completed in 2009–10. As a result of those reviews, 17
504 recipients had their payments reduced or cancelled, 4492 had their payments
increased, and 28 209 debts with an estimated value of $57.6 million were raised.
Data matching
Centrelink data is interrogated to identify inconsistent recipient circumstances, including
incorrect earnings, multiple identities, incorrect rental information and incorrect
information about dependants in care. Data is matched with that from other government
agencies, including the Australian Taxation Office, the Department of Immigration and
Citizenship, Defence Housing Australia, ComSuper, AUSTRAC and state and territory
registers of births, deaths and marriages. There were 36 081 data-matching reviews in
2009–10.
Student income support payment debts raised and recovered
In 2009–10, approximately 140 000 new student payment debts, with a value of almost
$131 million, were raised; $90.4 million of debt was recovered by Centrelink and its
contracted mercantile agents, and $9.2 million was waived under provisions of the Social
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Annual Report 2009-10
Security Act 1991, the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 or the Student
Assistance Act 1973.
Outcome 4
Enhanced employability and acquisition of labour market skills and knowledge
and participation in society through direct financial support and funding of
employment and training services
Maximising employment participation is essential to enhance the nation’s productivity.
The Outcome 4 objective is to help individuals, especially those who are disadvantaged,
to develop skills and to assist them in obtaining employment and participating
economically and socially in the community.
Major vehicles for achieving these objectives are the department’s employment
programs, Job Services Australia, Disability Employment Services and the reformed
Indigenous Employment Program.
Employment services and programs are underpinned by the income support system and
job seeker compliance framework, which encourage and support job seekers to gain
employment.
The labour market challenges caused by the global recession were a critical priority in
2009–10. The department responded by ensuring that those most affected had access to
appropriate services and support. Australians who were made redundant as a result of
the economic downturn received immediate employment services through Jobs Services
Australia and Disability Employment Services, and local employment strategies were put
in place. The department continues to develop and refine employment services policy to
meet the needs of job seekers and employers.
Support for Indigenous Australians was provided through the Indigenous Employment
Program and other initiatives, such as the Indigenous Economic Strategy, with a view to
achieving COAG’s national target of halving the gap between Indigenous employment (48
per cent) and non-Indigenous employment (72 per cent) within a decade. This means
ensuring that an additional 100 000 Indigenous Australians are employed within the
decade.
A number of initiatives were implemented in 2009–10 to assist specific groups at risk,
such as early school leavers (Earn or Learn Policy) and mature age job seekers
(Productive Ageing Package, Career Transition) to ensure that individuals have the right
skills, training and opportunities to contribute to the economy.
The work of Outcome 4 is informed by an evidence base of labour market research and
evaluations of programs, which enable the department to provide labour market and
employment policy and related advice. This includes advice on skilled migration,
sustainable population, and industry and regional labour market issues.
Key priorities
The key priorities for 2009–10 were to:
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
transition, implement and administer the new employment services programs,
ensuring service to both job seekers and employers, and to develop policy on
income support measures and manage the portfolio’s social security legislation,
including the provision of advice on the Pension Review and Australia’s Future Tax
System Review
●
implement new job seeker compliance arrangements from 1 July 2009 to support
Job Services Australia and the new employment services
●
work with employment service providers to implement policies to increase the
participation of disadvantaged Australians, including
-
young people (aged 12–24 years), particularly those who are early school
leavers, in further education or employment
-
homeless people and those at risk of homelessness
-
jobless families and parents on income support
-
mature age Australians
-
redundant workers, by facilitating access to training and tailored employment
services in accordance with the Compact with Retrenched Workers
●
develop and implement Indigenous-specific economic and employment policies to
support closing the gap and increase the wellbeing of Indigenous Australians by
supporting greater economic participation and self-reliance
●
develop and implement policies to improve local economies and labour markets,
especially those most affected by the global downturn.
Key achievements
In 2009–10:
●
Job Services Australia was transitioned and implemented; this included Stream
services (including Work Experience), the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme, Harvest
Labour Services, the National Harvest Labour Information Service, the Innovation
Fund and Employer Brokers.
●
Disability Employment Services, which includes Disability Management Service and
Employment Support Service, was developed, transitioned and implemented.
●
The reformed Indigenous Employment Program was introduced and, to assist in the
delivery of services, two panels were established: the IEP Employment Panel and
the IEP Economic Development and Business Support Panel.
●
The draft Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2010–2018 and Action Plan
2010–2012 were developed and released.
●
The Indigenous Opportunities Policy was introduced to maximise employment and
business opportunities for Indigenous Australians through government procurement.
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
Changes were introduced to Youth Allowance from 1 July 2010 to support the Youth
Compact and the National Youth Participation Requirements agreed by COAG in April
2009.
●
The National Green Jobs Corps, which provides up to 10 000 young Australians with
work experience and training opportunities in environmental projects, was
implemented.
●
The $43 million Productive Ageing Package, which includes a range of new services
to support mature age job seekers and workers, was introduced.
●
The Compact with Local Communities was implemented, focusing on the priority
employment areas. This included the development of regional employment policy
plans in priority employment areas supported by the local employment coordinators.
The plans implemented the recommendations of the Keep Australia Working report.
●
Providing support to redundant workers and those who lost their jobs during the
global recession under the Compact with Retrenched Workers. At 30 June 2010, 216
985 workers identified as losing their jobs due to the global recession had been
referred to employment services through Centrelink since the early access to
employment services initiative began on 24 February 2009. The Insulation Workers
Adjustment Package provided $41.2 million in support for workers and businesses
affected by the cessation of the Home Insulation Program.
●
The new job seeker compliance framework was introduced to maximise job seeker
participation in employment and engagement with employment services and to
undertake appropriate activities and programs of assistance.
●
The Training Supplement of $41.60 per fortnight was introduced from 1 July 2009 to
support low-skilled unemployed people receiving Newstart Allowance and Parenting
Payment (for example, people without Year 12 or an equivalent qualification)
undertaking approved education and training.
●
At a cost of $31 million under the Productivity Placement Program, 8581 people
started in a New Enterprise Incentive Scheme funded training course. The scheme is
a program driven by Outcome 4; Productivity Placement Program funding comes
from Outcome 3.
●
Funding was provided to support
●
-
the Jobs Fund ($171 million to 225 projects to support and create jobs and
skills development through projects that build and support community and
social infrastructure)
-
the Innovation Fund (46 innovative projects aimed at assisting disadvantaged
job seekers in a diverse range of geographical locations throughout Australia)
-
the Employer Broker program (20 activities that match the needs of job
seekers with the labour requirements of employers).
The department responded to employers’ needs for workers in skills shortages
occupations and industries through
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
-
implementing the Pacific Seasonal Workers’ Pilot Scheme, including laboursending mechanisms in the participating countries
-
contributing to the development of the new Skilled Occupation List through the
provision of labour market information for around 100 occupational groups to
Skills Australia.
The first Survey of Employers’ Recruitment Experiences in the six state capital cities
was conducted in order to understand skills shortages by providing direct
comparisons of the impact of recruitment difficulties between state capitals.
Program 4.1 Employment Services
Program objectives
Workforce participation is a driver of long-term economic growth. The employment
services objectives include:
●
investing in the skills of unemployed Australians to help them find and keep a job
●
ensuring that government assistance supports workforce participation and economic
and social inclusion.
On 1 July 2009, the department implemented Job Services Australia, which was designed
to increase employment participation and play a greater role in assisting employers to
address skills shortages. Job Services Australia is a streamlined employment assistance
model devised to provide the right mix of training, work experience and other
interventions to job seekers, commensurate with their needs, to help them get and retain
jobs.
Table 4.1
Key performance indicators for Program 4.1
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Job Services Australia
Total job placements achieveda
450 000 369 575
a Outcomes relate to nine months of the period. For the first three months of Job Services Australia,
commencing 1 July 2009, outcomes measured relate to outcomes achieved under the Job Network system as
part of agreed transition arrangements.
There are a number of complexities associated with reporting on the program
effectiveness measures for the second half of 2009. Post-assistance outcomes for job
seekers placed into jobs through Job Network, such as 13-week and 26-week outcome
payments, continued to occur during this period, and many job seekers who began
receiving assistance from Job Services Australia had insufficient time in the employment
services for outcomes to be recorded. The post-assistance outcomes achieved by Job
Services Australia included in the measures in Table 4.1 in 2009–10 therefore relate to a
smaller proportion of the population than in future years.
Job Services Australia
Job Services Australia includes the following employment services components.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Stream services
Since commencement, more than 369 500 job seekers have been placed in jobs. Over 33
per cent (124 880) of those placements were job seekers in streams 3 or 4 (that is, those
job seekers with the greatest barriers to employment). The target of 450 000 job
placements was set before the global recession, and performance should be measured in
the context of tighter economic and labour market conditions.
Employer Brokers
The Employer Broker panel’s objective is to connect with employers in skill or labour
shortage industries, or specific locations, to broker solutions that meet employers’ needs,
and to coordinate and target the efforts of employment service providers to match the
needs of job seekers with the labour requirements of employers. The government has
provided $6 million over three years (2009–10 to 2011–12) to fund Employer Broker
activities.
There are currently 20 activities valued at just over $2.5 million. In Round One, 14
activities were approved in June 2009 to assist more than 900 participants and create
more than 630 jobs. Another six activities have been funded, with a focus on the National
Skills Needs List and the employment of older workers, providing assistance for up to an
additional 500 participants and creating approximately 535 more jobs.
Expansion of the panel was announced in July 2009. It includes organisations specifically
skilled in servicing national employers with workforces dispersed throughout Australia to
manage their recruitment, particularly through a strong focus on increasing their
Indigenous workforces.
Innovation Fund
The Innovation Fund is a competitive grants program designed to address the needs of
the most disadvantaged job seekers through funding projects that foster innovative
solutions to overcome their barriers to employment. The government has provided $41
million over three years to fund these projects.
Two rounds of the fund were announced during 2009–10. Funding of approximately
$19.4 million for 33 Round One projects was announced on 10 June 2009. These projects
will assist up to 7742 disadvantaged job seekers and will create jobs and work experience
placements as well as training and mentoring opportunities. In Round Two, successful
projects were announced on 7 December 2009; 13 innovative projects are being funded
for approximately $5.2 million. These are expected to assist up to 3550 disadvantaged
job seekers to access jobs, work experience placements, training placements and
mentoring opportunities.
New Enterprise Incentive Scheme
The New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) assists eligible job seekers who are
interested in starting and running a small business. The scheme provides accredited
small business training, business advice and mentoring for eligible job seekers, as well as
ongoing income support, for up to 52 weeks. This includes NEIS training to complete
either a Certificate III in Micro-Business Operation or a Certificate IV in Small Business
Management. The scheme assists up to 6300 job seekers each year through a network of
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Annual Report 2009-10
53 NEIS panel members. In 2009–10, there were 6118 business start-ups under the
scheme (97 per cent of the scheme’s cap of 6300 start-ups per annum).
Harvest Labour Services
DEEWR provides two seasonal worker programs:
●
Harvest Labour Services (HLS) has 11 providers operating from 33 sites which
provide outof-area workers for areas where the local labour pool is insufficient to
meet growers’ needs. During 2009–10, HLS filled more than 15 200 harvest labour
positions in 19 harvest areas Australia wide.
●
The National Harvest Labour Information Service coordinates harvest-related
information nationally as well as producing a hard-copy Harvest Guide, coordinating
the Harvest Trail website and providing a free seven-day harvest-related telephone
information service.
Jobs Fund
The Jobs Fund initiative supports job creation and skills development through community
and social infrastructure projects. The fund is part of the government’s Jobs and Training
Compact and was announced on 5 April 2009. It was established to support families and
communities most affected by the global recession.
Two rounds of funding were announced during 2009–10. For Round One, $132 million in
funding was announced in September 2009 for 172 projects across Australia under the
Local Jobs and Get Communities Working streams. Funding for these projects was in the
form of one-off grants of up to $2 million. Many of the projects are in regions that
experienced high levels of disadvantage and job loss. Round One projects will create
more than 6000 jobs, more than 1800 traineeships or apprenticeships and around 3600
work experience positions.
In addition, $11 million in funding was provided to 37 not-for-profit organisations across
Australia under the Temporary Financial Assistance component of the Get Communities
Working stream to provide support during the economic downturn.
Under this initiative, Local Employment Coordinators were appointed in 20 identified
Priority Employment Areas across Australia to coordinate and drive local responses to job
losses and declining economic demand in targeted areas. The coordinators work closely
with local councils, businesses and communities to ensure that regions most affected by
the economic downturn receive timely and coordinated access to the government’s jobs
and stimulus packages.
Round Two of the fund was retargeted to include a number of broader initiatives and to
align with the recommendations from the final Keep Australia Working report, released on
16 October 2009. The Local Jobs stream focused on green jobs and training outcomes,
and the Get Communities Working stream focused on effective intermediate labour
market models.
In late March 2010, $39 million was announced for 53 Round Two projects across
Australia under the Local Jobs stream and Get Communities Working stream of the Jobs
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Annual Report 2009-10
Fund. Round Two projects will create approximately 1620 jobs, around 400
traineeships/apprenticeships and more than 1140 work experience positions.
The range of Round Two projects includes support for social enterprises to provide
training and employment opportunities to people from disadvantaged backgrounds,
initiatives that will focus on repairing and improving community facilities, and projects
with environmental benefits, including green skills for the future.
The Jobs Fund will conclude on 30 June 2011.
Job Capacity Assessment
The Job Capacity Assessment program delivers work capacity assessments for people
with disability and other barriers to work. Job capacity assessors refer people to
appropriate employment services and provide reports that inform Centrelink decisions on
income support, such as Disability Support Pension (DSP) entitlements.
New job capacity assessor qualification requirements were successfully negotiated with
contracted providers to enable improved assessment of people making claims for the DSP
as announced in the 2009–10 Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and
Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) Better and Fairer Assessments measure. These new
requirements will be implemented from 1 July 2010 and will ensure that DSP
assessments are conducted by suitably qualified and experienced allied health and health
professionals (for example, psychologists and rehabilitation counsellors).
On 30 June 2011, the contracted job capacity assessment service will cease to operate.
Future assessments will be completed by Centrelink with assistance from the government
service provider, CRS Australia. In line with the current job capacity assessments, the
new assessments of disadvantaged job seekers will be conducted by allied health
professionals.
The new assessments will be tailored to the needs of the individual. People with
disability, injury or ill-health will undergo detailed assessments. Those with potentially
serious ‘non-medical’ barriers, for example vulnerable young people, will undertake
streamlined assessments to suit their needs.
Job seekers referred by assessors to Job Services Australia streams 1 to 3 may also be
referred for psychological counselling, pain management or other interventions during the
initial months of their Job Services Australia participation.
On 1 July 2011, management of DSP assessments will transfer from DEEWR to FaHCSIA.
Effectiveness indicators
Table 4.2
Effectiveness indicators for Program 4.1
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Job Services Australia
Cost per employment outcome for Employment Services delivered by Job
Services Australia:
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Streams 1-3
Stream 4
Estimate
Actual
$4000
$2079
$17 300
$11 442
Proportion of job seekers in employment 3 months following participation
in Employment Services:
Stream 1
55%
52.6%
Stream 2
38%
52.7%
Stream 3
25%
31.4%
Stream 4
13%
14.8%
Proportion of job seekers in education/training 3 months following
participation in Employment Services:
Stream 1
10%
18.2%
Stream 2
10%
16.6%
Stream 3
12%
20.2%
Stream 4
12%
15%
Proportion of job seekers off benefit 3 months following participation in
Employment Services:
Stream 1
55%
54.8%
Stream 2
40%
49.4%
Stream 3
35%
36.9%
Stream 4
15%
31.8%
Proportion of job seekers off benefit 12 months following participation in
Employment Services:
Stream 1
-
n/a
Stream 2
-
n/a
Stream 3
-
n/a
Stream 4
-
n/a
-
n/a
Proportion of Stream 4 commencements that obtain
a social outcome
a Cost per employment outcome for Employment Services delivered by Job Services Australia is calculated as
the sum of the unit cost of job seekers assisted divided by the number of job seekers employed (as measured
through the department’s Post Program Monitoring survey) in the reporting period. The costs per employment
outcome relate only to Job Service Australia costs (i.e. post 1 July 2009). The cost is lower than expected due
to the transition to the new model and does not include servicing costs incurred for job seekers who may have
also received assistance from former Job Network members.
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Annual Report 2009-10
This table shows the performance outcomes for the Employment Services program, and
the proportion of job seekers in employment following participation in employment
services, depending on their allocated stream. They show largely better than expected
results.
Labour market assistance effectiveness
A further measure of effectiveness is provided through broader indicators that can be
influenced by a range of factors, including the impacts of Outcome 4 programs:
●
trend in the average duration (in weeks) of unemployment relative to labour market
performance
●
comparative labour market experience (measured as average duration in weeks on
full rate unemployment allowance) and proportion of job seekers off benefit three
months following participation in Employment Services for each of the following
groups
●
-
long-term unemployed
-
very long-term unemployed
-
mature aged
-
people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds
-
young people
-
Indigenous people
-
people with disability
-
sole parents
proportion of population of workforce age on working age income support payment
-
full rate
-
part rate.
Labour force participation rate and employment-to-population ratio for persons
aged 15–64 years
The labour force participation rate is the proportion of the working age population that is
either employed or looking for work. It is used to determine whether an increasing
proportion of the population is working or looking for work and is a good indicator of the
total supply of labour. However, it does not include those who are marginally attached to
the labour force. The employment-to-population ratio is the proportion of the working
age population that is employed. This ratio is influenced by both labour demand and
effective labour supply factors. It is also a good summary indicator for measuring labour
market performance relative to comparable countries, particularly those in the
Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Reflecting the impact of the government stimulus packages in response to the global
recession on the Australian economy and the strengthening of the labour market since
late 2009, the employment-to-population ratio for persons aged 15–64 years increased
by 0.5 percentage points to 72.2 per cent over the year to June 2010. Australia’s
workforce-age participation rate decreased by 0.1 percentage points over the same
period, and was 76.1 per cent in June 2010.
Chart 4.1
Labour force participation rate and employment-to-population ratio:
persons aged 15–64 years: trend data, June 1978 to June 2010
Source: ABS, Labour Force, Australia, June 2010, ABS cat. no. 6202.0, Table 18.
Proportion of the civilian population aged 15–64 years on working age income
support payments
Working age income support payment types, both full and part rate, include:
●
Newstart Allowance
●
Youth Allowance
●
Parenting Payment (Single and Partnered)
●
Disability Support Pension
●
Sickness Allowance
●
Widow Allowance
●
Mature Age Allowance
●
Partner Allowance
146
Annual Report 2009-10
●
Other payments—the Age Pension (women aged 631/2 years (applies to June 2009
figures only) and 64 years (applies to June 2009 and June 2010 figures) are eligible
for the Age Pension although they are still of workforce age); Carer Payment;
Special Benefit; Youth Allowance (full-time students and Australian Apprentices);
Austudy; ABSTUDY Living Allowance; Widow B Pension; Wife Pension (Age and
Disability Support Pension); Bereavement Allowance; and Sickness Allowance.
Table 4.3
Proportion of the workforce-age population on income support
payments, full and part rate
Payment type by rate
June 2009
June 2010
Percentage point
change
4.2
4.2
0.0
Full rate
12.6
12.6
0.0
Total
16.8
16.8
0.0
Part ratea
a This includes part rate payment, manual-rate payment, Disability Support Pension suspended, undetermined
and zero-rate payments.
Source: DEEWR extract of Centrelink administrative data.
The proportion of civilians aged 15–64 years on workforce-age income-support payments
remained unchanged between June 2009 and June 2010, both overall and by part
rate/full rate status. There was also little change in the proportions of the workforce-age
population on each of the payment types.
Economic conditions and employment
While the global economic recovery is uneven, Australia’s economic growth is robust and
the unemployment rate is lower than in comparable advanced economies. In seasonally
adjusted terms, economic growth in Australia was 1.9 per cent between the June quarter
2009 and the March quarter 2010 (the latest available data), compared with the flat
growth rate of 0.1 per cent recorded over the same period in the previous financial year.
The largest contribution to economic growth over the past three quarters was from public
investment (1.9 percentage points), while net exports subtracted from growth. Broken
down, between the June quarter 2009 and the March quarter 2010 all the states and
territories recorded positive growth in economic activity (as measured by real State Final
Demand). New South Wales and Victoria grew substantially, while Queensland, Tasmania
and the Northern Territory expanded marginally over the period.
In line with stronger economic growth, labour market conditions improved appreciably in
2009–10. Employment increased by 353 200 (or 3.3 per cent) over the year, to stand at
11 100 700 in June 2010, compared with a fall of 28 500 (0.3 per cent) over the previous
financial year. The rise in employment in 2009–10 was due to an increase in both fulltime (up by 201 600 or 2.7 per cent to 7 794 700) and part-time employment (up by 151
600 or 4.8 per cent to 3 306 000). This is an indication that many employers are gaining
confidence during the economic recovery and are choosing to hire more workers.
Significant job gains were recorded in a number of industries over the year to May 2010
(the latest available data), including mining (up by 214 500); electricity, gas, water and
waste services (up by 259 100); information, media and telecommunications (up by 161
300); rental, hiring and real estate services (up by 180 100); and arts and recreation
services (up by 199 500).
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Annual Report 2009-10
The unemployment rate fell by 0.7 percentage points over 2009–10, to stand at 5.1 per
cent in June 2010. The level of unemployment fell gradually over the period by 63 900
(or 9.6 per cent) to 598 400 in June 2010. However, long-term unemployment rose over
2009–10 by 6700 (or 6.3 per cent) to 112 500 in June 2010. Similarly, long-term
unemployment incidence (the proportion of unemployed persons who were long-term
unemployed) rose by 2.8 percentage points over the period to 18.8 per cent.
Changes in the average duration of unemployment per labour force member indicate the
ability of unemployed people to find work. Chart 4.2 provides a time series for this
measure for the past 25 years. In the 12 months to June 2010, the average duration of
unemployment per labour force member fell by 5.3 per cent to just under two weeks.
Chart 4.2
Average duration of unemployment per labour force member, June
1985 to June 2010
Source: Based on data from ABS (2010), Labour Force, Australia, Detailed—electronic delivery, June 2010, ABS
cat. no. 6291.0.55.001, and ABS SuperTABLE UM1, seasonally adjusted and trended in DEEWR.
Consistent with expectations, the average duration of full rate unemployment allowance
increased from the level reported in June 2009 (see Table 4.4). This reflects the large
inflow of new unemployment allowance recipients in 2009–10 and its effect of reducing
the average duration. During the recovery stage, new inflows generally find jobs more
quickly, leading to increasing durations for those receiving allowance recipients at the
start of the period.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Table 4.4
Average duration on full rate unemployment allowance, June 2005
to June 2010 (weeks)
Measure
Average duration on
full rate
unemployment
allowance
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Trend
41.0
39.4
37.0
35.3
33.7
34.3
Increase
Note: Table shows the average duration on full rate Newstart or Youth Allowance (other) at the end of June
each year.
Source: DEEWR administrative data.
Across disadvantaged groups, the average durations on full rate unemployment
allowance for 2009–10 were comparable to those achieved in 2008–09. The small
decreases experienced by a number of disadvantaged groups reflected the proportionally
larger inflows into those groups (for example, long-term unemployed, single parents)
relative to the overall population. Increased instances of earnings from employment (for
example, single parents) compared to 2008–09 also contributed to declines in the
average duration. These factors outweighed the conditions that led to the increase in the
average duration for all recipients.
Table 4.5
Average duration on full rate unemployment allowance, by
disadvantaged groups, June 2005 to June 2010 (weeks)
Measure
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2009-10 %
change
Trend
Very long-term
unemployed
239.1
237.1
233.9
234.5
226.1
216.3
-4.3
Decrease
Long-term
unemployed
164.6
161.7
162.0
163.4
148.9
133.0
-10.7
Decrease
Indigenous
Australians
50.5
47.6
44.4
42.2
44.6
46.0
3.1
Increase
Mature agea
59.3
56.5
51.4
48.5
43.4
41.5
-4.3
Decrease
Culturally and
linguistically
diverse
backgroundb
42.8
40.6
37.7
35.6
33.4
32.8
-2.0
Decrease
Sole parents
49.0
49.1
23.3
18.7
20.2
19.0
-5.7
Decrease
People with
disability
80.0
67.4
65.1
61.9
57.1
51.2
-10.3
Decrease
Young peoplec
14.4
14.1
14.0
12.7
15.6
18.7
20.4
Increase
All client
groups
41.0
39.4
37.0
35.3
33.7
34.3
1.8
Increase
a Aged 45 or more.
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Annual Report 2009-10
b Other than people from main English-speaking countries.
c 15 to 20 years old.
Note: Table shows the average duration on full rate Newstart or Youth Allowance (other) at the end of June
each year.
Program 4.2 Indigenous Employment
Indigenous Employment Program
The Indigenous Employment Program (IEP) aims to increase Indigenous Australians’
employment outcomes and participation in economic activities, contributing to the
government’s commitment to halving the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous
employment outcomes within a decade. The IEP has contributed to this commitment by
working alongside other employment services, such as Job Services Australia, which is
the largest provider of employment services for Indigenous people.
The reformed IEP began on 1 July 2009. The reformed program offers tailored solutions
to assist employers to recruit, train and provide sustainable employment for Indigenous
Australians. The program also supports Indigenous Australians to pursue selfemployment and business development opportunities. The reforms introduced a stronger
emphasis on regional and place-based strategies, work experience placements,
expanding career guidance and aspiration building programs, as well as support for adult
Indigenous job seekers and their families to relocate for better opportunities. There is
also a stronger commitment to working in partnership with Indigenous communities,
individuals, employers and providers to drive performance and ensure continuous
improvement of the program.
To assist in the delivery of services, two panels were established on 1 July 2009 following
a competitive tender exercise. The IEP Employment Panel helps to equip employers with
the skills, knowledge and expertise necessary to provide sustainable employment
opportunities for Indigenous Australians and prepare Indigenous Australians to take up
employment opportunities, stay in jobs and enhance their future employment prospects.
The IEP Economic Development and Business Support Panel supports enterprises along
the entire business pathway, including through strategies or services for building
economic and business development opportunities for Indigenous Australians.
Table 4.6
Key performance indicators for Program 4.2
Performance indicator
Estimate Actual
Indigenous Employment
Number of total commencements in Indigenous
employment programs (includes commencements in
employment, training and other assistance)
25 000 22 935
Number of employment commencements in Indigenous
employment programs
12 500 10 933
Trend analysis
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Annual Report 2009-10
IEP commencement targets for 2009–10 were significantly higher than in previous years
(66 per cent higher than the 2008–09 total target of 15 000). The total actual IEP
commencements were 22 935, a shortfall of 2065 commencements against the target,
and the IEP employment commencement figure was 10 933, a shortfall of 1567
employment commencements against the target. These shortfalls were the result of the
time taken to bed down the IEP reforms and an emphasis on developing quality projects
that would deliver sustainable outcomes with good retention.
Indigenous Employment Program project, Queensland—'Caring for Country'
The Indigenous Employment Program funds a number of projects across Australia
supporting training, employment and enterprise development in natural resource
management and landcare. One example of a successful project is the Quandamooka
Land Council Ranger Employment Project, which placed 11 Indigenous trainees into
training for a Certificate II in Conservation and Land Management. Trainees were
engaged in a variety of activities, including environmental rehabilitation and maintenance
on North Stradbroke and Moreton islands and adjacent mainland sites within Redlands
City Council boundaries, and assisted with cultural heritage management.
A special feature of this project was that all participants were traditional owners of the
land they were rehabilitating. The project has had a profound effect on the community
and continues to generate ongoing benefits in North Stradbroke Island, which, although
close to Brisbane, is deemed remote and is affected by social problems such as drug and
alcohol abuse. All participants and the entire Dunwich community have been touched by
this project, and the Moreton Bay oil spill that occurred during the project provided an
unexpected opportunity for participants to demonstrate their skills and commitment.
Importantly for the community, the project has enabled participants to develop careers
that are in harmony with their responsibilities as traditional owners of North Stradbroke
Island. All participants who completed the project have gone on to further employment
with local councils and with mining companies located on the island. One participant has
since enrolled in marine science at university, and will start in 2011.
Effectiveness indicators
Table 4.7
Effectiveness indicators for Program 4.2
Performance indicator
Proportion of job seekers in employment and/or
education/training (positive outcomes) 3 months
following participation in Indigenous Employment
programsa
Estimate Actual
60%
71.5%
a Outcomes measured three months after job seeker ceased a period of employment-related assistance under
the IEP and reformed IEP between 1 April 2009 and 31 March 2010. The Post-Program Monitoring Survey is the
source of the data.
Post-assistance outcomes for IEP participants were strong in 2009–10: outcomes for
retention in employment, education and training after three months significantly
exceeded the target.
Indigenous Economic Development Strategy
151
Annual Report 2009-10
The aim of the Indigenous Economic Development Strategy is to increase the wellbeing of
Indigenous Australians by supporting greater economic participation and self-reliance.
This strategy has set directions that aim to increase the participation of Indigenous
Australians in all aspects of the Australian economy. This is being achieved through new
partnerships between Indigenous Australians, the private sector, governments and the
community.
To support the objectives of the strategy, key major reforms are already in place
(including to the Community Development Employment Projects program, Job Services
Australia and the IEP), a new procurement policy, and the Learn Earn Legend! initiative.
New opportunities have been created for direct engagement with business leaders and
community organisations through the Business Action Agenda and the Indigenous
Employment and Enterprise Network.
The Learn Earn Legend! initiative has been designed to promote high personal
achievement and positive role models for Indigenous youth to encourage them to attend
and achieve at school as a pathway to further education, training and employment. On
31 January 2010, the partnership with the National Rugby League to promote the
message of Learn Earn Legend! was announced. In June 2010, 100 Indigenous Australian
students from urban, regional and remote areas of Australia participated in two days of
work experience in a parliamentarian’s office and one day in an Australian Public Service
agency as part of the Learn Earn Legend! Work Experience in Government initiative.
Indigenous Employment Program project, Queensland—'Caring for Country'
The department has been working with Indigenous Environmental Services and the Murdi
Paaki Regional Assembly since May 2009 to develop a 10-year project framework, Green
Futures, proposed by Mr Sam Jeffries, Chair of the regional assembly. Green Futures
aims to improve access to information and education about climate change issues for
Indigenous communities and to scope the risks and potential economic opportunities for
Indigenous communities from climate change and carbon pollution reduction strategies.
Green Futures includes a focus on information, education and career advice; regional risk
and opportunity assessment; assessment of the feasibility of new enterprises in green
sectors, including food and water security, natural resource management, renewable
energy, energy efficiency and emissions trading; and the development of strategies to
maximise the employment of local Indigenous people in emerging green industries.
DEEWR has been working with FaHCSIA, the Department of Climate Change, the
Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, the New South Wales
Department of Education and Training, and Aboriginal Affairs NSW to ensure a
coordinated approach to the initiative. Green Futures aims to develop information and
resources for all remote Indigenous communities through an initial pilot in the Murdi
Paaki region in far western New South Wales. An important direction is alignment with
the prioritisation of investment in Wilcannia and Walgett under the National Partnership
Agreement on Remote Service Delivery.
Two Green Futures projects began in 2009-10. The Climate Change and Green Skills
Taskforce is supporting a research project to fully scope Green Futures, including
mapping skills needs and available resources. The Workforce Innovation Program has
allocated funding to employ a project officer for two years to develop and implement an
Indigenous workforce development plan for the construction industry in Murdi Paaki, with
a focus on green skills. It particularly seeks to identify pathways for local Indigenous
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Annual Report 2009-10
workers and businesses to take advantage of significant investment in the region through
the National Partnership Agreement on Remote Indigenous Housing, which offer
opportunities for Indigenous Australians in energy and water efficient housing
construction.
Program 4.3 Disability Employment Services
As part of the social inclusion and skills agenda, a review of employment programs for
people with disability was undertaken in close consultation with consumers, peak bodies,
employers and employment services providers. The objectives of the review were to
streamline services, reduce red tape and tailor services to the individual needs of job
seekers.
As a result of the review, Disability Employment Services began on 1 March 2010,
replacing the Disability Employment Network and Vocational Rehabilitation Services. The
government will invest more than $1.7 billion in Disability Employment Services over the
period from 1 March 2010 to 30 June 2012.
Disability Employment Network
Until 28 February 2010, the Disability Employment Network (DEN) provided specialist
assistance to job seekers with disability who required ongoing support to find and
maintain employment. Services included individual employment planning, training, job
search activities, work experience, and post-placement or ongoing support.
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Until 28 February 2010, Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) provided specialist
employment assistance, combined with vocational rehabilitation, to help people with
disability, injury or a health condition to find and retain safe and sustainable employment
in the open labour market. VRS assisted job seekers to understand, compensate for and
manage their injury or disability by building work capacity, developing new work
strategies to avoid re-injury, or both.
The Employer Incentives Scheme
The Employer Incentives Scheme includes a range of programs that support the
employment of people with disability, including:
●
the National Disability Recruitment Coordinator service, which offers a single point of
contact for large private-sector employers seeking to recruit employees with
disability
●
the Supported Wage System, which provides productivity-based wage assessments
for people who are not able to work at full capacity due to the impact of their
disability
●
the Wage Subsidy Scheme, which provides a financial incentive to employers to
increase the competitiveness of job seekers with disability seeking employment in
the open labour market
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
the Workplace Modifications Scheme and the Auslan for Employment program,
which were replaced by the Employment Assistance Fund on 1 March 2010 (the
Workplace Modifications Scheme reimbursed employers for the cost of workplace
modifications and equipment for workers with disability; Auslan for Employment
assistance included access to Auslan interpreting services for work-related
activities).
Disability Employment Services
Disability Employment Services (DES) began on 1 March 2010 and provides specialist
assistance to job seekers with disability, injury or a health condition to find or maintain
sustainable employment in the open labour market. Job seekers are assisted through
individual employment planning assistance that may include vocational assessment and
counselling, training, job search activities, injury management, workplace modifications,
work experience, and post-placement or ongoing support in the workplace.
DES offers two distinct programs to help people with disability, injury or a health
condition to find employment:
●
DES—Disability Management Service provides services to job seekers with a
temporary or permanent disability, injury or health condition who require the
assistance of a disability employment service and who may require flexible ongoing
support but are not expected to need regular, long-term support in the workplace.
●
DES—Employment Support Service is available to those job seekers with a
permanent disability who are assessed as needing regular long-term ongoing
support in the workplace. Within the Employment Support Service there are two
funding levels a participant may attract, depending on their assessed level of need.
Table 4.8
Key performance indicators for Program 4.3
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Employment Assistance and Other Services—Disability Employment Networka
Utilisation of program capacity
Disability Employment Network
Capped
Uncapped
Other Disability Employment including Assistance and services—
Employer Incentives Strategy of Wage Subsidy Scheme, Supported
Wage System, Workplace Modifications Scheme, Auslan for
Employment Program (instances)
National Disability Recruitment Coordinator
13 333
16 689
8667
12 491
7333
7633
467
412
23 500
27 053
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Number of actual commencements
Quality
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Proportion of job seekers referred to demand driven Vocational
Rehabilitation Services (VRS) who commence
85%
85%
Proportion of job seekers referred to fixed place VRS who commence
70%
74%
a The 2009–10 key performance indicators are based on eight months to the end of February 2010.
This table shows performance outcomes for the Employment Services program with
respect to the Disability Employment Network. It shows higher than estimated results in
all categories with the exception of the number passing through the National Disability
Recruitment Coordinator (467 estimated, 412 actual).
Disability Employment Network and Vocational Rehabilitation Services
The DEN capped stream had a fixed capacity of approximately 39 270 places. In 2009–
10, 195 organisations delivered the capped stream from 394 sites, assisting
approximately 52 900 clients to 28 February 2010. The demand-driven DEN uncapped
stream was delivered by 107 organisations from 530 sites, assisting 30 119 clients to 28
February 2010.
Commencements for both the DEN capped and uncapped streams were higher than
expected in 2009–10.
A similar trend was seen in commencements to VRS, which assisted approximately 74
000 clients in 2009–10 (up to 28 February 2010).
Trend analysis
The proportion of DEN capped job seekers that achieved a sustainable employment
outcome (measured by 26-week outcomes) declined slightly from late 2008 onwards,
which coincided with changes in the broader economic environment.
Disability Employment Services
On 1 March 2010, clients from the DEN and VRS programs were transitioned to the new
Disability Employment Services.
From 1 March 2010 to 30 June 2010, there were 14 145 commencements in DES—
Employment Support Service and 15 598 commencements in DES—Disability
Management Service.
Other disability employment
Applications for the Employment Incentives Scheme, particularly for the Wage Subsidy
Scheme and Workplace Modifications Scheme, increased during 2009–10.
The National Disability Recruitment Coordinator provided support to five new employers
and achieved 412 eligible employment placements for people with disability.
The number of applications submitted for the Workplace Modifications Scheme in 2009–
10 increased to more than 2000. The Auslan for Employment Program assisted 960 deaf
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Annual Report 2009-10
workers in 2009–10, and the Wage Subsidy Scheme assisted approximately 5900
employment placements.
The Supported Wage System supported approximately 4800 productivity-based wage
assessments.
Trend analysis
The total number of job placements for the National Disability Recruitment Coordinator
was below target due to the service receiving fewer job vacancies from employers than in
2008–09. The use of wage subsidies and the number of people applying for the
Workplace Modifications Scheme increased steadily during 2009–10.
Table 4.9
Effectiveness indicators for Program 4.3
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
The proportion of DEN job seekers who received assistance during 200809 that achieve a sustainable employment outcome in:
the capped stream
37%
34.2%
the uncapped stream
25%
23.9%
70%
63%
32%a
30%
Proportion of job seekers in VRS, in jobs, who go on
to achieve a 13-week employment outcome
Proportion of job seekers in employment 3 months
following participation in VRS
a The target has been reduced to reflect expected lower employment outcomes associated with the economic
slowdown and experience from previous economic downturns.
This table shows the less than expected results for those in the Disability Employment
Network seeking sustainable employment during 2008-2009.
Disability Employment Network and Vocational Rehabilitation Services
The proportion of DEN capped job seekers who had achieved a sustainable employment
outcome 18 months after commencing assistance in the program was 34.2 per cent. The
proportion of DEN uncapped job seekers who achieved a sustainable employment
outcome two years after commencing was 23.9 per cent. Performance declined slightly in
both streams from late 2008, coinciding, in part, with the changes in the economic
environment.
Three months after participating in VRS, 30 per cent of job seekers were in employment.
Disability Employment Services
There were 4143 clients in DES—Employment Support Service and 4869 clients in DES—
Disability Management Service placed in employment during the first four months of the
program to 30 June 2010.
Employment assistance—helping people with disability
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Annual Report 2009-10
The Employment Assistance Fund began on 1 March 2010 after an extensive review of
Disability Employment Services. In the first four months, the fund provided 400
workplace modifications assessments by qualified independent assessors from the
department's National Panel of Assessors. Graham Templeman is one of the approved
assessors and is employed by Vision Australia.
Graham said that his work as a Vision Australia adaptive technology consultant really
makes a big difference to helping people with vision impairment. 'As a workplace
modifications assessor, I visit people with disability in their workplaces, analyse their job
requirements and discuss the options available to enable them to be fully productive
workers. Providing adaptive technology and modifications as quickly as possible enables
people with disability to work independently and confidently.
'My experience in assisting clients through the Employment Assistance Fund is extremely
positive and working with the government's JobAccess service has always been positive
and straightforward.
'Another satisfying part of being an adaptive technology consultant is that my work helps
demystify disability for managers and work colleagues who may find that for the first
time in their lives they have a team member who is blind and they don't know what to
do. I think that the assistance that is available from the fund and being able to discuss
any disability employment matter with the JobAccess service is definitely an enabler for
both people with disability and employers.'
Program 4.4 Working Age Payments
Program objective
Working age payments support people to improve their prospects of gaining employment,
acquire labour market skills and knowledge, and participate in society. Financial
assistance has been provided to people who are unemployed, looking for work,
undertaking employment preparation programs, have parenting responsibilities, or have
a partial capacity to work due to disability.
The data in this section refer to recipients of all ages.
Newstart Allowance
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Annual Report 2009-10
Newstart Allowance provides income support for eligible job seekers aged 21 years or
over and under Age Pension age. Recipients must satisfy the activity test by seeking and
accepting suitable work and participating in activities designed to improve their
employment prospects.
At June 2010, there were 553 893 Newstart Allowance recipients, a 6.5 per cent increase
since June 2009, when there were 520 194 recipients.
Youth Allowance (other)
Youth Allowance (other) is a means-tested income support payment available to eligible
young people aged 16–20 years who are seeking or preparing for paid employment or
are temporarily unable to work. Certain 15-year-olds, including those who are homeless,
may also receive assistance. From 1 July 2009, new claimants for Youth Allowance are
expected to undertake study or training in combination with other approved activities
until they attain Year 12 or an equivalent
Certificate II qualification. In June 2010, there were 88 459 recipients of Youth Allowance
(other), a 6.7 per cent increase since June 2009, when there were 82 907 recipients.
Parenting Payment (Partnered and Single)
Parenting Payment is the main income support payment for the principal carer parent
with sole or primary responsibility for the care of a young child. Single parents may be
eligible for Parenting Payment (Single) until their youngest child turns eight. Partnered
parents may be eligible for Parenting Payment (Partnered) until their youngest child turns
six. Principal carer parent recipients granted payment on or after 1 July 2006 are
required to look for part-time work of at least 15 hours per week when their youngest
child turns six. For recipients of Parenting Payment who were receiving the payment
immediately prior to 1 July 2006, compulsory participation requirements began on 1 July
2007 or when the youngest child turns seven, whichever is the later. At June 2010, there
were 333 512 Parenting Payment (Single) recipients, a 3.1 per cent decrease since June
2009, when there were 344 096 recipients.
At June 2010, there were 124 910 Parenting Payment (Partnered) recipients, a 3.4 per
cent decrease since June 2009, when there were 129 365 recipients.
Mobility Allowance
Mobility Allowance is a fortnightly payment designed to assist people with disability who
are undertaking approved activities and are unable to use public transport without
substantial assistance. Mobility Allowance is not subject to the income and assets tests.
Mobility Allowance is payable at a standard rate of $80.50 and a higher rate of $112.70.
To qualify for the standard rate of Mobility Allowance, recipients must be undertaking
approved activities such as job seeking or any combination of paid employment,
voluntary work, vocational training, independent living, life skills training or vocational
rehabilitation for at least 32 hours every four weeks.
The higher rate of Mobility Allowance may be payable to eligible Parenting Payment,
Disability Support Pension, Newstart Allowance and Youth Allowance (other) recipients
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Annual Report 2009-10
who are working 15 hours or more a week in the open labour market for wages, or who
are looking for such work under an agreement with an employment services provider.
At June 2010, 91.2 per cent of recipients received the standard rate and 8.8 per cent the
higher rate.
At June 2010, there were 57 349 Mobility Allowance recipients, a 2.3 per cent increase
since June 2009, when there were 56 080 recipients.
Sickness Allowance
Sickness Allowance is a means-tested income support payment for people who are
temporarily incapacitated for work, or study (and on Austudy or ABSTUDY payment), as a
result of an illness or injury, are unable to work or study, and have a job or course of
study to return to. In June 2010, there were 6703 recipients of Sickness Allowance, a 3.8
per cent decrease since June 2009, when there were 6968 recipients.
Partner Allowance
Partner Allowance provides assistance to mature age people who are partners of income
support recipients and who face difficulty gaining employment due to a lack of recent
workforce experience. Partner Allowance was closed to new claimants on 20 September
2003, and people who would previously have been eligible for Partner Allowance can now
apply for Newstart Allowance. Numbers have declined in recent years as a result. In June
2010, there were 24 054 recipients of Partner Allowance, an 18.1 per cent decrease since
June 2009, when there were 29 369 recipients.
Widow Allowance
Widow Allowance provides income support for older working age women who become
single after turning 40 years of age and have no recent workforce experience. Widow
Allowance is being phased out. From 1 July 2005, new grants have been made only to
women who were born on or before 1 July 1955. In June 2010, there were 33 886
recipients of Widow Allowance, a 6.1 per cent decrease since June 2009, when there
were 36 086 recipients.
Ex Gratia Payment (Widow Allowance)
Ex Gratia Payments mirroring Widow Allowance provided income support for a number of
older working age women who were incorrectly granted Widow Allowance as a result of a
Centrelink system configuration error. Since February 2010, there have been no
recipients of the Ex Gratia Payment.
Supplementary payments
Education Entry Payment
The Education Entry Payment is a lump-sum payment of $208, payable once annually, to
assist with the costs associated with beginning approved study. It is also available to
people who qualify for the Pensioner Education Supplement. As part of the Nation
Building—Economic Stimulus Plan, from 1 January 2009 until 30 June 2010 the
qualification period for eligible recipients was reduced from 12 months continuous receipt
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Annual Report 2009-10
of an income support payment to four weeks, and eligibility was extended to Youth
Allowance (other) recipients. In addition to receiving the Education Entry Payment,
recipients also received a temporary training and learning supplement of $950. In 2009–
10, 155 172 recipients of DEEWR income support payments received an Education Entry
Payment.
Training and Learning Bonus
The Training and Learning Bonus was a one-off payment of $950 under the Nation
Building— Economic Stimulus Plan for eligible income support recipients to assist with the
costs of the 2009 academic year. To receive this bonus, people must have been eligible
for payment on 3 February 2009. The bonus was paid to most recipients in 2008–09. In
2009–10, 697 recipients of DEEWR income support payments received the bonus.
Language, Literacy and Numeracy Supplement
The Language, Literacy and Numeracy Supplement is a fortnightly supplement of $20.80
to assist people on eligible income support payments with the costs associated with
participating in the Language, Literacy and Numeracy Program. In 2009–10, 24 091
recipients of DEEWR income support payments received the supplement.
National Green Jobs Corps Supplement
The National Green Jobs Corps Supplement is a fortnightly payment of $41.60 to
recipients of DEEWR income support payments to assist them with the cost of
participating in this program of work experience, skill development and accredited
training. From 1 January 2010, when the program started, the supplement has been paid
to 2247 participants.
Pensioner Education Supplement
The Pensioner Education Supplement is a fortnightly income supplement of up to $62.40
payable to certain income support recipients, such as single parents or people with
disability, who are undertaking approved full- or part-time study. In 2009–10, 30 084
recipients of DEEWR income support payments received the Pensioner Education
Supplement.
Training Supplement
The Training Supplement is a temporary additional payment of $41.60 per fortnight for
new and existing recipients of Newstart Allowance and Parenting Payment who have not
completed Year 12 or equivalent, or who have a trade or vocational qualification which
could be upgraded to better equip them to find future employment. The supplement is
paid to eligible job seekers who fully meet their participation requirements by
commencing an approved Certificate II to Certificate IV course between 1 July 2009 and
30 June 2011. In 2009–10, 18 045 recipients of income support payments received the
Training Supplement.
Utilities Allowance
The Utilities Allowance is a supplement paid to older Australians in receipt of income
support to assist with their household bills, such as energy, rates and water bills. Eligible
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Annual Report 2009-10
households can receive the Utilities Allowance payment of up to $530.00 per year, paid in
quarterly instalments. From 20 September 2009, the Pension Supplement replaced the
Utilities Allowance, Pharmaceutical Allowance and Telephone Allowance for recipients
over Age Pension age. In 2009–10, 69 160 income support recipients received the
Utilities Allowance. The Pension Supplement was paid to 4178 recipients of DEEWR
income support payments.
Approved Program of Work Supplement
The Approved Program of Work Supplement is a fortnightly payment of $20.80 to assist
job seekers with the cost of participating in an approved activity such as Work for the
Dole, Droughtforce or Green Corps. In 2009–10, 36 072 income support payment
recipients received the Approved Program of Work Supplement.
Community Development Employment Projects Participant Supplement
The Community Development Employment Projects Participant Supplement is a
fortnightly payment of $20.80 to assist with the cost of participating in a Community
Development Employment Project. In 2009–10, 14 042 recipients of DEEWR income
support payments received the supplement.
Program performance
The performance of the Working Age Payments program is measured by monitoring and
analysing payment trends to assess the average duration on income support.
The global recession resulted in an increase in newly unemployed people on income
support payments, including Newstart Allowance. As the economy strengthened in 2009–
10, the number of short-term recipients of income support payments decreased, with
concurrent growth in the number of long-term recipients. As a consequence, the average
duration on Newstart Allowance increased over the year to 165 weeks from 160 weeks in
2008–09, having reduced from 199 weeks in 2007–08. The average duration on income
support for Youth Allowance (other) recipients followed a similar pattern, increasing to 78
weeks in 2009–10 from 69 weeks in 2008–09, having been 75 weeks in 2007–08.
Also reflecting the impact of the Welfare to Work changes from 1 July 2006, with new
claimants eligible until their youngest child turns eight years of age and a reducing
‘grandfathered’ population, the average duration on income support for Parenting
Payment (Single) recipients increased to 356 weeks in 2009–10 from 354 weeks in
2008–09 and 349 weeks in 2007–08.
Exits within three months of grant of Newstart Allowance increased to 33 per cent, 3
percentage points higher than in 2008–09, reflecting the steady recovery of the economy
and the impact on the labour market. The result for Youth Allowance (other) of 31 per
cent in 2009–10 was the same as in 2008–09, but 7 percentage points lower than in
2007–08, reflecting the barriers in the labour market faced by younger unemployed
people and the increased emphasis on training and study for young job seekers.
The proportion of income support recipients who exited within 12 months of grant was
lower than in previous years, reflecting the increased average duration on income
support. Changes as a result of the recovery from the global recession will take longer to
flow through to the results for this measure. In 2009–10, 69 per cent of recipients exited
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Annual Report 2009-10
Newstart Allowance within 12 months, less than in 2008–09 (75 per cent) and 2007–08
(79 per cent). Similarly for Youth Allowance (other), exits within 12 months of grant were
lower (71 per cent) than in 2008–09 (76 per cent) and 2007–08 (80 per cent).
Table 4.10 Effectiveness indicators for Program 4.4
Performance indicator
Estimatea
Actual
—
—
Newstart Allowance
n/a
165
Youth Allowance (other)
n/a
78
Parenting Payment Single
n/a
356
—
—
Newstart Allowance
n/a
33
Youth Allowance (other)
n/a
31
—
—
Newstart Allowance
n/a
69
Youth Allowance (other)
n/a
71
Average (mean) duration on income support by current
income support payment (weeks):
Percentage of income support recipients who exit income
support within 3 months of grant:
Percentage of income support recipients who exit income
support within 12 months of grant:
a Estimates based on historical trend analysis were unavailable due to the change in the recipient population in
2008–09.
Reviews of recipients’ compliance
Information obtained from Centrelink’s Integrated Review System shows that
approximately 1.9 million working age payment reviews were completed in 2009–10. As
a result of those reviews, 268 680 recipients had their payments reduced or cancelled, 56
767 had their payments increased, and 278 453 debts were raised, with an estimated
value of $319.5 million.
Data matching
Centrelink data is interrogated to identify inconsistent recipient circumstances, including
incorrect earnings, multiple identities, incorrect rental information and incorrect
information about dependants in care. Data is matched with that from other government
agencies, including the Australian Taxation Office, the Department of Immigration and
Citizenship, Defence Housing Australia, ComSuper, AUSTRAC and state and territory
registers of births, deaths and marriages. There were 422 628 data matching reviews in
2009–10.
Working age income support payments debts raised and recovered
In 2009–10, approximately 720 100 new working age payment debts, with a value of
approximately $523 million, were raised, $350.9 million of debt was recovered by
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Annual Report 2009-10
Centrelink and its contracted mercantile agents, and $15.7 million was waived under
provisions of the Social Security Act 1991 or the Financial Management and
Accountability Act 1997.
The Youth Allowance components of these figures are estimates because the debt data
include both student (the responsibility of the department’s Outcomes 2 and 3) and other
Youth Allowance debts.
Centrelink service delivery performance—working age payments
The bilateral management arrangement between Centrelink, the Department of Human
Services and DEEWR provides a framework for all three agencies to deliver outcomes
(including payments) in relation to employment, education and child care. The agreement
contains a confidence framework developed to monitor the strength and success of the
relationship between agencies and assure the parties that policy and program outcomes
are being achieved. Overall, Centrelink’s performance against the framework was
satisfactory during 2009–10.
New and continuation claims for working age payments were processed within agreed
timeframes, as were job seeker participation reports. Payment accuracy for working age
payments was satisfactory. While the rate of growth of the debt base for current payment
recipients reduced in 2009–10, the growth of the debt base for former recipients of
working age payments increased.
Random Sample Survey Program
The Random Sample Survey Program provides assurance about the accuracy of working
age income support payments. Recipients are randomly selected for a review from the
population for each payment type. The program is a point-in-time assessment of
recipient circumstances and is designed to establish the value of total outlays accurately
paid and to provide reasons for any debt, error or change in payment rate. The program
provides benchmark data on the level of inaccurate payments.
The 2009–10 program conducted approximately 14 250 reviews.
Table 4.11 Level of payment accuracy determined from random sample surveys
for the major working age income support payments, 1 July 2009 to
30 June 2010
Payment type
Rate of accuracya (%)
Newstart
92.7
Parenting Payment Single
97.5
Parenting Payment Partnered
93.5
Youth Allowance (other)
91.5
Total
94.4)
(+ 0.5%)
a Figures are based on a statistical estimation of the level of accuracy of payments. The residual methodology
used assumes that certain payment inaccuracies will be identified in other reviews. Working age income support
payments are surveyed over three periods throughout the financial year: 1 July to 31 October, 1 November to
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Annual Report 2009-10
28 February, and 1 March to 30 June. All results are based on preliminary data from the three survey periods
and are subject to revision.
Source: DEEWR Random Sample Survey Program.
Debt management
The bilateral management arrangement includes a new method of measuring debt that
will encourage the reduction in the rate of growth of the debt base. However, data
reflecting performance for 2009–10 to the end of April 2010 indicate that, while there has
been a reduction in the growth of debt for current recipients, there has been an increase
in the rate of growth of the debt base for non-current recipients of support payments.
Recipient
Change in $
April 2008 to
April 2009
(%)
Non-current recipients
Current recipients
Change in $
Change in
April 2009 to rate of growth
April 2010
(%)
1.6
4.3
Increase
18.1
15.5
Decrease
Customer service and quality
The Employment Services Code of Practice and relevant service guarantees cover all
providers of Australian Government employment services holding contracts with the
department. The code describes how providers must deliver services to clients, and the
service guarantees specify the types of service that clients can expect to receive.
Complaints handling and client feedback
The nationwide customer service line (free call from landlines) is available for clients to
make enquiries and complaints, raise concerns, and provide suggestions for
improvement. If a participant has an issue that they are unable to resolve directly with
their provider, a departmental customer service officer will work with them to resolve
their concerns. If the participant has not raised their concerns with their provider before
calling the customer service line, they are encouraged to try to resolve their complaint
with their provider directly before the department intervenes.
Clients of Disability Employment Services are able to contact the Complaints Resolution
and Referral Service, a free independent complaint-handling body, directly or through the
department’s customer service line. In addition, clients can access translating and
interpreting services and telephone typewriter facilities through the National Relay
Service. Feedback from clients is also collected from departmental websites, letters,
feedback forms and the Post-Program Monitoring Survey.
Report on performance
Since 1 July 2009, the department received 12 164 complaints relating to employment
and related services out of a total 1 139 698 individual job seekers who began in
employment services during 2008–09. This included complaints received via telephone,
letters, feedback forms and surveys. Of the complaints:
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
2687 (22.09 per cent) were for Job Services Australia Stream 1 services, out of a
total of 523 754 job seekers who began in Stream 1 services
●
2503 (20.58 per cent) were for Job Services Australia Stream 2 services, out of a
total of 390 426 job seekers who began in Stream 2 services
●
2249 (18.49 per cent ) were for Job Services Australia Stream 3 services, out of a
total of 251 115 job seekers who began in Stream 3 services
●
1238 (10.18 per cent) were for Job Services Australia Stream 4 services, out of a
total of 139 236 job seekers who began in Stream 4 services.
The department received 24 478 calls from clients to the customer service line, of which
10 750 were complaints. The remainder of the calls included requests for information,
suggestions and compliments relating to services received. The Complaints Resolution
and Referral Service received 3790 calls from Disability Employment Services clients, of
which 1177 were complaints.
In addition, more than 408 164 calls were received by the Employment Services
Information Line from job seekers asking for information about employment and related
services.
Departmental outputs for Outcome 4
Table 4.12 Departmental outputs performance information
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Program management
Payments are made in accordance with All programs to meet
approved timelines
relevant administrative
targets set by quality
assurance processes in
DEEWR
All payments were
made in accordance
with administrative
targets set by quality
assurance processes
Payments made are based on
calculations which are accurate and in
accordance with approved guidelines
All programs to meet
relevant administrative
targets set by quality
assurance processes in
DEEWR
Payments made by all
programs were accurate
and met relevant
administrative targets
Employment IT applications: defect
density for important defect types
measured by the mean defect from the
International Software Benchmarking
Standards Group (ISBSG) repository of
major defects
Benchmark: Mean defect
density (major severity) =
15 defects/1000 function
points (to be measured 4
weeks after software
release)
3 defects/1000 This is
an internally created
benchmark based on
previous performance
and international
comparisons. A function
point is an
internationally
recognised measure of
software size
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
High-quality ministerial replies as
Qualitative evaluation of
Satisfieda
measured by the level of satisfaction of satisfaction using feedback
Ministers and the Parliamentary
to the Secretary from the
Secretaries with the quality and
Ministers and
timeliness of the replies
Parliamentary Secretaries
Provision of employment outcome
results through the Post-Program
Monitoring Survey
Results available within a
satisfactory timeframe
Results from the PostProgram Monitoring
Survey were made
available within a
satisfactory timeframe
Proportion of DEN organisations
100%
achieving quality assurance certification
within required timeframes
100%
Services provided by Australian
DEEWR requirements met
Government agencies (e.g. Centrelink)
satisfy performance requirements
Satisfied
Quantity
Employment IT applications services—
construction and redevelopment of
internally developed software
Cost benchmark is $1250 $1091
per function point Target is
$1250 or less
Employment IT applications availability Target is 99.5%
99%
Client satisfaction
Level of satisfaction of service
providers with contracted information
and support
80% satisfied
97.4% satisfied
Policy services
High-quality policy advice to Ministers,
senior officers of the department and
other key stakeholders
Qualitative evaluation of
Satisfieda
satisfaction and timeliness
using feedback to the
Secretary from the
Ministers and
Parliamentary Secretaries
Level of satisfaction of Ministers with
the provision of research and
evaluation
Satisfactory or above
Satisfieda
a During the year, ministers, parliamentary secretaries and their staff provide feedback on the level of
satisfaction with departmental advice during regular meetings with the department. Overall feedback from their
offices is that they recognise the significant efforts made by departmental staff to meet their requirements. The
volume of written material provided to the ministers and parliamentary secretaries remained steady over 2009–
10. The department provided training to staff and monitored the quality of ministerial correspondence and
briefings.
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This table shows the largely satisfied departmental outputs for program management,
client satisfaction and policy services for Outcome 4.
Research and evaluation
In 2009–10, continual evaluation and research provided the evidence base to support
policy development and program delivery across the full range of the employment and
labour skills policy agenda. Activities included formal evaluation of major policy reforms
and programs and measurement of post-assistance outcomes and service quality. Those
activities were supported by an extensive survey program and administrative databases.
The department’s major evaluation activities in 2009–10 included:
●
design and implementation of a strategy to evaluate Job Services Australia
●
successful revision of the Post-Program Monitoring Survey for the new employment
services programs, which measures clients’ employment outcomes after they
participate in labour market programs
●
preparation and implementation of a strategy to evaluate the Jobs and Training
Compact
●
design and implementation of quarterly monitoring reports on the Jobs and Training
Compact
●
development of a plan for evaluation of the Indigenous Employment Program
●
development of an in-house evaluation of Disability Employment Services
●
the provision of analyses and advice on appropriate evaluation frameworks and
activities for the department and contracted consultants (including an analysis of job
seeker exits from employment services, used by the Taskforce for Strengthening
Government Service Delivery for Job Seekers, and an evaluation of the three
Smarter Schools National Partnership Agreements).
Outcome 5
Safer, fairer and more productive workplaces for employers and employees by
promoting and supporting the adoption of fair and flexible workplace
arrangements and safer working arrangements
Improving Australia’s productive capacity is one of the government’s core economic
policy objectives.
Activities underway in Outcome 5 support this objective in several ways and complement
the significant investments in education, skills and training that are being progressed
elsewhere within the portfolio. Collectively, these measures are directed at securing
social and economic prosperity for all Australians.
During 2009–10, the government’s workplace relations reforms were implemented with
the commencement of the bulk of the provisions of the Fair Work Act 2009 on 1 July
2009. The safety net components of the new workplace relations framework—the
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Annual Report 2009-10
legislated National Employment Standards and modern awards—took effect on 1 January
2010.
The Fair Work Act creates the legislative and institutional framework for the new
workplace relations system. Throughout 2009–10, the department provided policy advice
to the government on all aspects of the implementation of the Fair Work system.
Also on 1 January 2010, the national workplace relations system for the private sector
commenced. The national system was achieved by all states and territories other than
Western Australia legislating to refer their workplace relations powers to the
Commonwealth. A national workplace relations system for the private sector will reduce
complexity for employees, employers and small businesses. This will further help improve
productivity through reduced compliance costs for business.
On 11 December 2009, the Workplace Relations Ministers’ Council (WRMC) agreed to the
model Work Health and Safety Act. The Australian Government continues to work closely
with state and territory governments to harmonise occupational health and safety (OHS)
legislation. The Intergovernmental Agreement for Regulatory and Operational Reform in
Occupational Health and Safety expresses the commitment of all governments to achieve
uniform laws by 2011.
The implementation of national approaches to OHS will help to increase productivity.
Harmonising OHS laws will cut red tape, boost business efficiency and provide greater
certainty and protection for all workplace parties.
Also during 2009–10, the department assisted in implementing the government‘s
decision to introduce a comprehensive national paid parental leave scheme from 1
January 2011. The scheme, which is designed to complement employees’ existing
workplace entitlements, will promote maternal and child health and wellbeing, encourage
greater workforce participation by parents and also promote gender equity and work/life
balance in the community. The department will continue to assist in the implementation
of the scheme.
Strategies by the department to achieve the intended result of this Outcome focus on the
provision of policy advice to the Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations,
program management and policy implementation activities.
Outcome 5 key priorities
The key priorities for 2009–10 were to:
●
deliver evidence-based policy advice and analysis to government on all aspects of
the implementation and operation of the Fair Work Act, including the application for
an equal remuneration order covering workers in the social and community services
sector and the first annual wage review under the Act
●
consult with key stakeholders, including state and territory governments, on the
implementation of the new workplace relations framework and the development of a
uniform national minimum entitlement to long service leave
●
provide policy and legal advice and develop legislation to create a uniform national
workplace relations system for the private sector
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
provide education and information to the Australian community to assist it in
understanding the new workplace relations system, which began on 1 July 2009
●
contribute to the development of the government’s Paid Parental Leave scheme, led
by the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs
(FaHCSIA)
●
continue to progress work on the harmonisation of OHS laws under the terms of the
Intergovernmental Agreement for Regulatory and Operational Reform in
Occupational Health and Safety, including development of model OHS legislation in
accordance with the decisions of the WRMC, for implementation in all jurisdictions by
2011
●
consult with key stakeholders on the proposed transfer, following the harmonisation
of OHS laws, of the OHS coverage of self-insured licensees under the Comcare
scheme to state and territory jurisdictions
●
support the government’s workers compensation and OHS reforms in the
Commonwealth jurisdiction, through advising on the implementation of the
government’s policy, legislative and administrative response to the Comcare review
●
progress the government’s workplace relations reforms in relation to the building
and construction industry
●
administer the General Employee Entitlements and Redundancy Scheme (GEERS)
for the protection of employee entitlements in cases of business insolvency
●
enhance engagement on international labour issues, particularly those relating to
the International Labour Organization (ILO)
●
develop and implement the Fair Work Principles which commenced on 1 January
2010
●
provide workplace relations policy advice to all Commonwealth public sector
agencies to assist their enterprise bargaining, consistent with the Australian
Government Employment Bargaining Framework.
Outcome 5 key achievements
The key achievements for 2009–10 were:
●
Implementation of the government’s new workplace relations system. Most Fair
Work Act provisions took effect from 1 July 2009, with the safety net—modern
awards and legislated National Employment Standards—following on 1 January
2010.
●
Implementation of a national workplace relations system for the private sector from
1 January 2010.
●
Supporting the Minister in making successful submissions to Fair Work Australia to
clarify the intended operation of the Fair Work Act bargaining and agreementmaking framework.
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
Contributing to the development of the government’s Paid Parental Leave scheme,
led by FaHCSIA.
●
Preparation of the government’s submission to the 2009–10 Annual Wage Review.
The 2009–10 Annual Wage Review decision took effect from the first full pay period
starting on or after 1 July 2010.
●
Preparation of the report on agreement making in Australia from 2007 to 2009
under the Workplace Relations Act 1996.
●
Supporting the former Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Julia Gillard MP, in convening
the Workplaces of the Future Forum in July 2009 and undertaking subsequent
stakeholder consultations. A key aim of the forum and consultations was to
determine how unions, business, government, academics and employees can work
together to create fair, sustainable and productive workplaces, building on the Fair
Work framework.
●
Contributing to elements of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship’s
Migration Legislation Amendment (Worker Protection) Act 2008 to ensure that
sponsors give subclass 457 visa workers the same terms and conditions as
equivalent Australian workers employed at the same workplace.
●
Negotiating a five-year partnership agreement between Australia and the ILO which
will see $15 million in technical assistance to countries in the Asia–Pacific region
disbursed in the first two years. The Australia–ILO Partnership Agreement was
signed at the G20 Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting in Washington DC in
April 2010 and most projects are due to start from July 2010.
●
Participating in negotiations on labour provisions in free trade agreements.
●
Working cooperatively with state and territory governments through Safe Work
Australia to develop the agreed model Work Health and Safety Act. The model Act
was agreed by the WRMC on 11 December 2009, for implementation in all
jurisdictions by 2011.
●
Implementing the government’s policy, legislative and administrative response to
the Comcare review, including the development of the Occupational Health and
Safety and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2009.
●
Under GEERS, advancing over $154 million to 15 565 Australian workers who lost
their jobs as a result of their employers’ insolvency.
●
Implementing, through the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner, a mentoring
initiative for small to medium enterprises.
●
Completing 8340 assessments of industrial instruments under the Guidelines to the
National Code of Practice for the Building and Construction Industry, with an
average turnaround time of 2.05 days.
●
Administering the Fresh Ideas for Work and Family Grants Program, which in Round
One provided 243 grants totalling $1.62 million to small businesses to implement
work and family arrangements in their workplaces.
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
Administering the Fair Work Education and Information program, which provided a
total of $12.9 million in grant funding to 19 selected community, employee,
employer and small business organisations to help them educate and inform
members of the community about the Fair Work Act and how it will affect them.
●
Developing and implementing the Fair Work Principles, which took effect on 1
January 2010. From that date, the Australian Government requires potential
suppliers to provide information about how they comply with the principles when
submitting tenders for Australian Government work. A user guide was developed
following consultation with industry, unions and community representatives.
●
Completing 75 assessments of Australian Government agency collective agreements
against the Australian Government Employment Bargaining Framework.
Program 5.1 Employee Assistance
Program objective
The employee assistance measures listed below are directed at either providing safety
net support for employees in certain circumstances or, alternatively, supporting
longstanding industry arrangements which deliver employee benefits.
Coal Mining Industry (Long Service Leave Funding) Act 1992
Under Coal Mining Industry (Long Service Leave Funding) Act 1992 financing
arrangements, the cost of portable long service leave entitlements is managed through a
central fund administered by the Coal Mining Industry (Long Service Leave Funding)
Corporation. Monthly levy collections are paid from the consolidated revenue fund and
are subsequently transferred by the department to the central fund.
During 2009–10, the amount of payroll levy paid by employers to the fund was 2.7 per
cent of eligible wages.
Employee entitlements safety net schemes
GEERS is a safety net scheme which protects the entitlements of employees who have
lost their jobs as a result of the bankruptcy or liquidation of their employers. Eligible
entitlements under GEERS consist of up to three months unpaid or underpaid wages for
the period prior to the appointment of the insolvency practitioner (including amounts
deducted from wages, such as for superannuation, but not passed on to the
superannuation fund), all unpaid annual leave, all unpaid long service leave, up to a
maximum of five weeks unpaid payment in lieu of notice and up to a maximum of 16
weeks unpaid redundancy entitlement. Payments made under GEERS are subject to an
annually indexed income cap, which was $108 300 for 2009–10.
The following achievements in connection with the employee entitlements safety net
schemes in 2009–10 were notable:
●
A total of $154 058 670 was advanced under GEERS to 15 565 eligible claimants.
●
Of claimants who received assistance under GEERS, 87.3 per cent were paid 100 per
cent of their verified employee entitlements by GEERS.
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
More than 45 632 enquiries were received by the GEERS Hotline.
●
Over $18 million advanced under GEERS was recovered during 2009–10.
As part of its administration of GEERS, the department works closely with insolvency
practitioners to determine employees’ entitlements and to process GEERS claims quickly
and accurately.
Insolvency practitioners are a key stakeholder of GEERS, and to guide the continuous
improvement processes of GEERS their feedback is sought regularly through a number of
avenues, including an annual stakeholder satisfaction survey. In 2009–10, 165
insolvency practitioners were surveyed. Ninety-three per cent of respondents rated the
department’s management of GEERS as satisfactory or above. This was an improvement
from the 92 per cent achieved in 2008–09. The proportion of ‘extremely satisfied’
stakeholders remained constant at 30 per cent.
The information obtained through the survey will continue to assist the department to
identify improvements to systems and processes to ensure better outcomes for GEERS
claimants.
Unlawful Termination Assistance Scheme
The Unlawful Termination Assistance Scheme was discontinued, effective from 1 July
2009. Appropriate transitional provisions were put in place, including arrangements for
those employees who believed their employment had been unlawfully terminated prior to
1 July 2009 and financial provisions to meet any outstanding commitments. During the
reporting period, 12 applications were processed, of which 11 were found eligible with a
total actual expenditure for 2009–10 of $62 850.
Program 5.2 Workplace Assistance
Program objective
The workplace assistance measures outlined below are intended to ensure the successful
operation of the new workplace relations system, in particular through initiatives
designed to demonstrate the benefit of cooperative workplace relations and/or to help
employers and employees understand their rights and obligations under the system.
Fair Work Education and Information program
The Fair Work Education and Information program is a targeted education program
providing grants to community, employee, employer and small business associations to
deliver education and information services to the Australian community. The program is
aimed at assisting the Australian community in understanding the new workplace
relations system which commenced on 1 July 2009. Grants totalling $12.9 million over
two years were awarded to 19 organisations following a competitive selection exercise
finalised on 29 June 2009. A total of 54 057 people participated in some 3550 education
activities held across Australia, and websites developed for the program reported that
there were over 56 000 visits and 3500 downloads of information papers. The program
also provides for the development of the Young Workers’ Toolkit, which promotes fairness
for young people at work and provides information to them. Work on the toolkit is
continuing.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Fair Work Principles
The Fair Work Principles support the creation of quality jobs by ensuring that Australian
Government procurement decisions are consistent with the Fair Work Act and its aims,
including promoting fair, cooperative and productive workplaces. While the Fair Work
Principles provide guidance for all industries, given the longstanding compliance problems
in the cleaning services and the textile, clothing and footwear industries, additional
provisions apply to procurements in those areas.
The Fair Work Principles were announced by the Minister for Finance and Deregulation
and the Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations in July 2009 and came into
effect on 1 January 2010.
Fresh Ideas for Work and Family Grants Program
The Fresh Ideas for Work and Family Grants Program was introduced in 2008–09 to
support Australian small businesses to implement practices that help employees balance
their work and family obligations, as well as to improve employee retention and
productivity. The program continued for a second round in 2009–10.
The program provides grants of up to $15 000 (GST exclusive) to small businesses to
help meet the set-up costs of family-friendly arrangements that suit the individual needs
of the businesses. The department funded 243 businesses in the first funding round.
The second funding round opened on 25 February 2010 and closed on 31 March 2010.
More than 800 applications were received from small businesses, and the assessment of
the applications was ongoing at 30 June 2010.
National Workplace Education program
The National Workplace Education program provides $10 million over five years to The
Union Education Foundation to develop and deliver national workplace education
programs aimed at improving the skills and knowledge of employee representatives in
the workplace with respect to the Fair Work system.
The program focuses on:
●
providing the skills to enable employee representatives to develop and maintain
cooperative workplace relations at the enterprise level
●
providing skills and knowledge to assist employee representatives to conduct
enterprise bargaining cooperatively and improve employment practices and
workplace outcomes for both employers and employees
●
enhancing fairness and representation in Australia’s workplaces through an
emphasis on improving understanding of effective practices and procedures in the
resolution of grievances and disputes
●
enhancing employee representatives’ knowledge and understanding of the Fair Work
system, including the National Employment Standards, modern awards, workplace
rights, general protections, lawful industrial activities, compliance and enforcement
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Annual Report 2009-10
activities of the Fair Work Ombudsman and the role and functions of Fair Work
Australia
●
providing skills and knowledge to assist employee representatives to promote
awareness and the workplace use of measures available under the Fair Work system
that can assist employees to balance their work and family responsibilities, including
the right to request flexible working arrangements
●
enhancing fairness in Australia’s workplaces through an improved understanding of
equity and discrimination issues in the workplace, including the principle of equal
remuneration for work of equal or comparable value as embodied in the Fair Work
system.
Homeworkers Code of Practice program
The Homeworkers Code of Practice program provides $4 million over four years to the
Homeworkers Code Committee Incorporated to support the promotion of Ethical Clothing
Australia (formerly known as the Homeworkers Code of Practice and ‘No Sweat Shop’
label).
The code is voluntary and encourages manufacturers, suppliers and retailers to make
their production and supply chains transparent, to better understand their supply chains
to minimise the potential for exploitation of outworkers, and to adopt ethical procurement
policies. The code provides for accreditation of parties along the textile, clothing and
footwear supply chain to help ensure that homeworkers are employed according to
relevant award conditions.
During 2009–10, $1.25 million was provided to the committee, enabling it to boost the
public profile of the accreditation scheme, resulting in new businesses being accredited.
The committee also expanded its education and compliance activities with businesses and
workers, which resulted in increased compliance with award and code obligations.
International Labour Organization
The department represented the government at ILO Governing Body meetings and at the
Ninety-ninth Session of the International Labour Conference. The department was also
responsible for advice on a wide range of specific matters including progress in relation to
the ratification of key conventions, options for funding agreements with the ILO, and
advice to the WRMC on issues relating to the ILO.
The government is a member of the ILO Governing Body and holds a number of the key
posts, including the posts of Governing Body representative for the Far East Asia and
Pacific subregion, government representative on the Committee on Freedom of
Association, and government coordinator for the Asia and Pacific Government Group.
The government signed a new partnership agreement with the ILO to deliver sustainable
employment activities in the Asia–Pacific region, aiming to achieve decent work for
people in the region. Funding of $15 million over the first two years of the five-year
agreement has been delivered, and implementation of projects under the partnership
agreement has commenced. The projects to be funded cover a wide range of objectives,
from improving the conditions of individual factory workers in Asian countries to
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Annual Report 2009-10
modernising the labour laws of countries in the Pacific. The department played a central
role in the development and implementation of the partnership agreement.
Priority conventions
During the year, the government made significant progress towards ratifying the
Maritime Labour Convention 2006.
Industry parties have expressed support for ratification of the convention, and all state
and territory governments are working towards achieving full compliance in law and
practice with a view to completing the ratification process at the earliest opportunity. It is
envisaged that ratification will take place by the end of 2011.
The government has also been working towards ratification of three ILO conventions
identified by the WRMC in April 2009 as priority targets for ratification. They are
Convention 162, Asbestos Convention, 1986 (No. 162); Protocol 155 of 2002 to the
Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 1981; and Convention 175, Part-Time Work
Convention, 1994.
It is expected that the ratification process will be completed during 2010–11.
Protected Action Ballots Scheme
From 1 July 2009, under the Fair Work Act, the Commonwealth met the full cost of
protected action ballots conducted by the Australian Electoral Commission. During 2009–
10, the department processed 266 invoices relating to 661 ballots and paid just over
$1.13 million under the scheme.
Outcome effectiveness indicators
Table 5.1
Effectiveness indicators for Outcome 5
Performance indicator
June quarter
2009
(annual
figures)
June quarter
2010
(annual
figures)
The federal workplace relations system supports improved productivity outcomes
Productivity—GDP per hour worked in the market sector
(trend terms)
1.4%
1.2%
Wage Price Index (seasonally adjusted)
3.8%
3.0%
Low incidence of industrial action (allowing for variations in the bargaining cycle)
Working days lost per thousand employees
Working days lost in federal bargaining disputes
13.3
13.3
38 000
85 500
Collective bargaining is widely used by employers and employees to negotiate pay
and conditions
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
June quarter
2009
(annual
figures)
June quarter
2010
(annual
figures)
Non-managerial employees who had their pay determined
by a federally registered collective agreement
2.1 million
(May 2006)
2.3 million
(August 2008)
Enterprise agreements approved
11 735
(June 2009)
6118
(June 2010)
This table shows the performance of the department in promoting and supporting the
adoption of fair, and flexible and safer working arrangements.
The operating environment in 2009–10
Wages and earnings
The Australian Bureau of Statistics Wage Price Index (WPI) increased by 3.0 per cent
(seasonally adjusted) over the year to the June quarter of 2010, down from 3.8 per cent
over the year to the June quarter of 2009.
Public sector WPI growth remained relatively strong over the year to the June quarter of
2010 (4.0 per cent), while private sector WPI growth increased by just 2.8 per cent,
down from 3.5 per cent a year before.
In industry terms (using original data), the highest rate of increase in the WPI over the
year to the June quarter 2010 was in electricity, gas, water and waste services (4.7 per
cent), while the lowest annual increase was in wholesale trade (1.7 per cent). Mining
recorded an annual increase of 3.8 per cent, down from an annual increase of 4.2 per
cent in the June quarter of 2009.
Unlike other macroeconomic indicators, wages growth is not immediately affected by
changes in economic conditions. This is evident in the WPI: the economic slowdown did
not affect the annual WPI figures until the end of 2009 and early 2010. The annual June
quarter 2010 WPI result (3.0 per cent) indicates that wages growth has stabilised,
consistent with the government’s economic statement forecasts (released in July 2010).
Real wages, as measured by average non-farm compensation per employee deflated by
the implicit price deflator for final consumption expenditure—households from the ABS
Australian National Accounts: National Income, Expenditure and Product publication (cat.
no. 5206.0)—AusStats spreadsheets 2, 3 and 20 (seasonally adjusted), increased by 1.1
per cent (seasonally adjusted) over the year to the June quarter of 2010, up from a
decrease of 2.1 per cent over the year to the June quarter of 2009. The increase in real
wages was due to stronger growth in average non-farm compensation per employee (3.8
per cent) over that period compared with growth of 2.7 per cent in the implicit deflator
for household final consumption expenditure over the same period. It should be noted
that the average non-farm compensation series is volatile and fluctuates considerably
from quarter to quarter.
On 3 June 2010, Fair Work Australia’s specialist Minimum Wage Panel released its
decision to set the new national minimum wage at $569.90 per week, or $15 per hour
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Annual Report 2009-10
(rounded to the nearest 10 cents). This was an increase of $26 per week or 1.4 per cent
in real terms since the last minimum wage rise in 2008. The increase took effect from the
first full pay period on or after 1 July 2010.
Productivity
The most common measure of productivity—GDP per hour worked in the market sector—
increased by 1.2 per cent over the year to the June quarter of 2010, down from 1.4 per
cent over the year to the June quarter of 2009. It should be noted that short-term
measures of productivity are prone to volatility and cyclical effects and should therefore
be interpreted with caution.
Trends in working hours
Average hours worked over the year to May 2010 by full-time employees (in all jobs and
including overtime) were 40.6 hours, up slightly from the average of 40.4 hours over the
year to May 2009, reflecting the improved labour market conditions in the Australian
economy over the past financial year.
Industrial disputation
Australia recorded a strike rate of 13.3 working days lost (WDL) per thousand employees
over the year to the June quarter of 2010, unchanged from the previous year. In general,
industrial disputation measured in this way has trended downwards over the long term
despite quarterly fluctuations.
The number of WDL in federal bargaining disputes stood at 85 500 over the year to the
June quarter of 2010, up from 38 000 over the year to the June quarter of 2009.
However, that increase was not unexpected, given the increased number of employees in
the federal jurisdiction due to the establishment of a national workplace relations system
for the private sector on 1 January 2010. It should also be noted that changes in the
level of industrial disputation may be affected by changes in the number of expiring
enterprise agreements.
The construction industry accounted for the largest number of WDL over the year to the
June quarter of 2010 (30 600) followed by the education, health and community services
industries (19 900).The metal product, machinery and equipment industries (51.4) had
the highest WDL per thousand workers over the year to the June quarter of 2010. (The
breakdown of published data by customised industry groupings in the ABS Industrial
Disputes data is based on the industries where industrial disputation is most likely to
occur, as well as on the viability of releasing the data, rather than on individual ANZSIC
industry classifications.)
Table 5.2
Industrial disputation, 1985-86 to 2009-10
Year
Working days lost per 1000 employees
Average 1985-86 to 1990-91
223.5
1991-92
182.7
1992-93
159.3
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Annual Report 2009-10
Year
Working days lost per 1000 employees
1993-94
82.3
1994-95
85.0
1995-96
114.1
1996-97
90.0
1997-98
82.1
1998-99
55.8
1999-2000
105.3
2000-01
45.1
2001-02
41.9
2002-03
30.2
2003-04
66.9
2004-05
28.8
2005-06
21.6
2006-07
9.9
2007-08
17.4
2008-09
13.3
2009-10
13.3
Agreement making
A total of 6118 collective agreements were approved by Fair Work Australia or the
Workplace Authority or varied and extended by the Australian Industrial Relations
Commission in 2009–10 (unless otherwise noted, all data on collective agreements in this
section is derived from the department’s workplace agreements database). This was a
significant decrease from the total of 11 735 agreements approved in 2008–09. The
decrease was due to a much higher than average number of agreements approved in the
June 2009 quarter and a lull in agreement making from July 2009 as the bargaining
provisions of the Fair Work Act came into operation.
Of the 6118 collective agreements approved in 2009–10, 4636 were enterprise
agreements made under the Fair Work Act, and 1178 were collective agreements made
under the Workplace Relations Act 1996 and lodged in 2009–10 in accordance with the
provisions of the Fair Work (Transitional and Consequential Amendments) Act 2009.
Finally, 304 were pre-reform certified agreements (that is, agreements made prior to the
introduction of the Work Choices amendments to the Workplace Relations Act) that were
varied and extended under the amendments to the Workplace Relations Act made by the
Workplace Relations Amendments (Transition to Forward with Fairness) Act 2008.
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Annual Report 2009-10
The Transition to Forward with Fairness amendments to the Workplace Relations Act
allowed employers using Australian Workplace Agreements (AWAs) at 1 December 2007
to offer Individual Transitional Employment Agreements (ITEAs) to new employees and
employees already on AWAs during the transition to the new workplace relations system,
which came into full effect on 1 January 2010. During the reporting period, 21 687 ITEAs
were approved by the Workplace Authority. ITEAs have a nominal expiry date of no later
than 31 December 2009.
Chart 5.1
Federal collective agreements lodged/approved, 2008–09 and 2009–
10
Annualised average wage increases in collective agreements lodged during 2009–10 were
3.9 per cent, down from 4.3 per cent in 2008–09. This reflects the impact of the global
economic downturn.
Workplace relations policy advice
Workplace relations policy and analysis covers a number of important activities that
promote greater productivity, more employment for Australians and strong and
sustainable economic growth through the development of fairer and more flexible
workplaces. It involves providing timely advice and analysis on policies and legislation to
advance the government’s national approach to workplace relations.
Commencement of the Fair Work Act 2009
Australia’s new workplace relations system, Fair Work, commenced on 1 July 2009 and
became fully operational on 1 January 2010 with the start of the safety net—modern
awards and the National Employment Standards.
Award modernisation
The Australian Industrial Relations Commission completed the award modernisation
process by 31 December 2009, reducing 3715 pre-existing instruments to 122 modern
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Annual Report 2009-10
awards. It is estimated that at the conclusion of the award modernisation process 197
000 pages of award regulation were reduced to fewer than 6000 pages.
In the lead-up to the commencement of modern awards on 1 January 2010, the
department provided timely advice to the government on a range of issues related to
award modernisation.
The award modernisation process was conducted in accordance with the Minister’s Award
Modernisation Request, and was made under the Workplace Relations Amendment
(Transition to Forward with Fairness) Act 2008, which came into effect on 28 March 2008.
The Minister subsequently made four variations to that request (variations were made on
1 July 2009, 17 August 2009, 26 August 2009 and 9 November 2009).
The department also prepared a number of government submissions to the Australian
Industrial Relations Commission as part of the award modernisation process (see
Appendix 5 of this report for details).
A national workplace relations system for the private sector
The department continued to work closely with state and territory governments on the
establishment of a national workplace relations system for the private sector. The
national system commenced on 1 January 2010.
The Commonwealth and participating states finalised a key element of the system—the
multilateral intergovernmental agreement—through the WRMC during the year. The
agreement sets out the governance arrangements for the system and was signed by the
Commonwealth and all states and territories except Western Australia. The multilateral
intergovernmental agreement is underpinned by bilateral intergovernmental agreements
with referring states. The bilateral agreements set out state-specific arrangements for
service delivery, tribunal-related matters and other arrangements relevant to the referral
of powers in the individual jurisdictions concerned.
The Fair Work Amendment (State Referrals and Other Measures) Bill 2009, which among
other things gave effect to state referrals of power, was introduced in the Commonwealth
Parliament on 21 October 2009 and passed the Senate on 2 December 2009. The Fair
Work Amendment (State Referrals and Other Measures) Act 2009 received royal assent
on 9 December 2009.
All states participating in the national system passed legislation to refer their powers over
workplace relations matters to the Commonwealth.
The Western Australian Government decided not to refer its workplace relations powers
but publicly stated that it would continue to consider opportunities for harmonisation with
the new national workplace relations system.
As a result of state referrals of power, all private sector employers and employees in
referring states now have access to the same workplace laws, tribunals, minimum
conditions, rights and entitlements. It is estimated that the national workplace relations
system now covers approximately 96 per cent of all private sector employees. A report
prepared for the department by Access Economics found that the total net benefit of
moving to a single national workplace relations system is estimated to be $4.83 billion
over 10 years.
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Equal remuneration for social and community services workers case
The government is participating in a national pay equity case for social and community
services workers. This is the first application under the new equal remuneration
provisions of the Fair Work Act. The department has provided policy advice regarding the
government’s involvement in the case.
Paid parental leave
In the May 2009 Budget, the government announced the introduction of Australia’s first
Paid Parental Leave scheme, to commence on 1 January 2011. The department worked
with the lead agency, the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and
Indigenous Affairs, in providing advice on the policy details of the scheme and draft
legislation. The department also consulted with key stakeholders, including members of
the National Workplace Relations Consultative Council and state and territory officials, on
particular workplace relations aspects related to the Paid Parental Leave scheme. The
Paid Parental Leave Act 2010 was passed by parliament on 17 June 2010.
The building and construction industry
During 2009–10, the department continued to support and provide advice on the
government’s workplace relations policies related to the building and construction
industry.
The Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment (Transition to Fair
Work) Bill 2009, which was introduced into parliament in June 2009, honoured the
government’s commitment to abolish the Office of the Australian Building and
Construction Commissioner and to establish a new independent body from 1 February
2010. The Bill was passed by the House of Representatives on 13 August 2009. Senate
debate on the Bill had not concluded at 30 June 2010.
The department continued to assist government agencies in applying the National Code
of Practice for the Construction Industry and the related Australian Government
Implementation Guidelines. Presentations and seminars were delivered to government
agencies and industry bodies.
The department also continued to provide advice and assessment services on the
compliance of building and construction employers’ industrial instruments with the code
and guidelines. During 2009–10, the department completed 8340 assessments, with an
average turnaround time of 2.05 days. This was an improvement on performance in
2008–09 (8380 assessments with an average turnaround time of 2.77 days).
Workplace relations legislation development
Legal and policy advice
During 2009–10, the department provided legal and policy advice to the Minister for
Employment and Workplace Relations, portfolio agencies and other stakeholders about:
●
the operation of the workplace relations system, including the development of and
transition to the new workplace relations system
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●
developments arising out of court and tribunal decisions in federal, state and
territory jurisdictions
●
OHS, workers compensation and public sector employment matters.
In particular, the department provided legal and policy advice to the Minister on the
development of a uniform national workplace relations system for the private sector.
Legislation development
Primary legislation
The following Acts were enacted in 2009–10:
●
Fair Work (State Referrals and Other Measures) Act 2010. This Act was assented to
on 9 December 2009. The Act
-
enables states (other than Western Australia) to refer matters to the
Commonwealth for the purpose of establishing a national workplace relations
system for the private sector under the Fair Work Act
-
relies on a reference of legislative power from the parliaments of referring
states to establish arrangements for the transition of employees and employers
covered by state workplace relations systems to the coverage of the national
workplace relations system.
●
Long Service Leave Legislation Amendment (Telstra) Act 2009. This Act was
assented to on 16 November 2009. The Act amended the law relating to long service
leave for employees of Telstra and made other amendments for related purposes.
●
Coal Mining Industry (Long Service Leave Funding) Amendment Act 2009. This Act
was assented to on 10 December 2009. The Act preserved the operation of existing
sector-specific long service leave arrangements for the coal mining industry beyond
1 January 2010.
The Occupational Health and Safety and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2009 was
introduced into the House of Representatives on 26 November 2009 and referred to the
Senate Standing Committee on Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, which
reported on 25 February 2010. The Bill sought to restore workers’ compensation
coverage during recess breaks, enable the full regulation of ‘lifts’ as ‘plant’, and ensure
the funding of certain Comcare claims, in particular those concerning latent diseases.
In addition, the Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment (Transition
to Fair Work) Bill 2009 was introduced into the Senate on 17 August 2009, having passed
the House of Representatives on 13 August 2009. The Bill sought to abolish the Office of
the Australian Building and Construction Commissioner and create a new agency, the
Office of the Fair Work Building Industry Inspectorate, to regulate the building and
construction industry. It also sought to remove a number of existing laws specific to the
building industry and introduce a range of safeguards in relation to the use of the power
to compulsorily obtain information or documents.
Regulations
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The following regulations were made during 2009–10:
●
The Fair Work Amendment Regulations 2009 (No. 2) amended the Fair Work
Regulations 2009 relating to investigation entry regarding outworkers in the textile,
clothing and footwear industry, and to OHS entry under Australian Capital Territory
legislation.
●
The Fair Work Amendment Regulations 2009 (No. 3) amended the Fair Work
Regulations 2009 to clarify the operation of the principal Regulations relating to
signature requirements for enterprise agreements; the meaning of temporary
absence, illness or injury in relation to employees; and the obligations of employing
authorities within the public sector. The changes included various minor and
technical amendments.
●
The Remuneration Tribunal (Members’ Fees and Allowances) Amendment
Regulations 2009 (No. 1) amended the Remuneration Tribunal (Members’ Fees and
Allowances) Regulations 2005 to change the amount of fees and allowances payable
to members of the Remuneration Tribunal.
●
The Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment Regulations 2009 (No. 1)
amended the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Regulations 2002 to change
fees payable to Comcare by rehabilitation providers for an initial approval or renewal
application.
●
The Fair Work (Transitional Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Amendment
Regulations 2009 (No. 1) amended the Fair Work (Transitional Provisions and
Consequential Amendment) Regulations 2009 to confer new requirements of a
transitional nature on Fair Work Australia when assessing whether an employee who
is covered by a modern award would be better off overall if an enterprise agreement
applied to that employee.
●
The Remuneration Tribunal (Miscellaneous Provisions) Amendment Regulations 2009
(No. 1) amended the Remuneration Tribunal (Miscellaneous Provisions) Regulations
1976 to remove the appointment of a person to conduct a commission of inquiry
into matters relating to a significant offshore petroleum incident or a significant
offshore greenhouse gas incident from the jurisdiction of the Remuneration Tribunal.
●
The Fair Work Legislation Amendment Regulations 2009 (No. 1) amended the Fair
Work (State Referral and Consequential and Other Amendments) Regulations 2009
and the Fair Work (Transitional Provisions and Consequential Amendments)
Regulations 2009 to substitute Fair Work Australia for the Australian Industrial
Relations Commission as the reviewing authority for OHS matters and make
transitional provisions for public sector redundancy, unfair dismissal and the final
annual reports for the Australian Industrial Relations Commission, the Australian
Industrial Registry and the Workplace Authority.
●
The Fair Work Legislation Amendment Regulations 2009 (No. 2) amended the Fair
Work (State Referral and Consequential and Other Amendments) Regulations 2009,
the Fair Work Regulations 2009 and the Fair Work (Transitional Provisions and
Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2009 to clarify the application of the Fair
Work Act, provide transitional provisions relating to award modernisation requests
and make various minor and technical amendments.
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●
The Fair Work Legislation Amendment Regulations 2009 (No. 3) amended the Fair
Work Regulations 2009 and the Fair Work (Transitional Provisions and Consequential
Amendments) Regulations 2009 to supplement and complete the transitional
arrangements as a result of the passage of the Fair Work Amendment (State
Referrals and Other Measures) Act 2009.
●
The Long Service Leave (Commonwealth Employees) Amendment Regulations 2010
(No. 1) amended the Long Service Leave (Commonwealth Employees) Regulations
1957 to remove gender-specific terms and replace them with gender-neutral terms.
●
The Safe Work Australia (Consequential and Transitional Provisions) Regulations
2010 amended the operation of Schedule 3 to the Safe Work Australia
(Consequential and Transitional Provisions) Act 2008 in respect of the declaration of
national standards and codes of practice.
●
The Occupational Health and Safety (Maritime Industry) (National Standards)
Amendment Regulations 2010 (No. 1) added a new part covering work in or on
confined spaces, to ensure that operators, employees and contractors take all
appropriate steps to minimise risks from working in confined spaces that may affect
the health or safety of employees.
●
The Fair Work (Transitional Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Amendment
Regulations 2010 (No. 1) amended the Fair Work (Transitional Provisions and
Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2009 to modify the provisions of the Fair
Work (Transitional Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Act 2009 that allow
the making of take-home pay orders.
●
The Fair Work Amendment Regulations 2010 (No. 1) amended the Fair Work
Regulations 2009 to enable state or territory service managers of Fair Work
Australia to exercise powers under delegation from the President and General
Manager of Fair Work Australia.
●
The Fair Work (Transitional Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Amendment
Regulations 2010 (No. 2) improved the ability of employees to claim unpaid wages
and monetary entitlements, and allowed breaches that started before the
commencement of the Fair Work Act and have continued after that date to be dealt
with by the relevant court under a single small claims procedure.
●
The Occupational Health and Safety (Safety Arrangements) Amendment Regulations
2010 (No.1) amended the Occupational Health and Safety (Safety Arrangements)
Regulations 1991 to prescribe the Australian Agency for International Development
(AusAID), comprising the Director-General and AusAID employees, as an ‘entity’,
and the Director-General as the principal officer, for the purposes of the
Occupational Health and Safety Act 1991.
●
The Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment Regulations 2010 (No. 1)
amended the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Regulations 2002 to prescribe
AusAID as an ‘entity’ for the purposes of the Safety, Rehabilitation and
Compensation Act 1988.
Commonwealth involvement in proceedings before courts and tribunals
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The department advised the Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations on
intervention into legal proceedings under the workplace relations legislation. Appendix 5
provides details of the proceedings in which the department was involved.
Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner
In 2009–10, the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner continued to focus on
implementation of the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS
Accreditation Scheme. The office worked closely with Australian Government agencies to
ensure that OHS is a key factor in their building and construction procurement and
project management.
The office:
●
presented and participated in a range of conferences, seminars and award
ceremonies
●
developed improvements to injury incident and OHS outcomes reporting to allow the
Federal Safety Commissioner to target initiatives to improve OHS outcomes for
industry participants
●
implemented a mentoring initiative for small to medium enterprises
●
achieved scheme recognition in additional jurisdictions.
Small to medium enterprise initiative
In March 2010 the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner announced a new
mentoring initiative to help small and medium sized enterprises achieve accreditation
under the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme.
In response to feedback that the accreditation process can appear overwhelming and
daunting to smaller companies, the office established a list of accredited companies
willing to share their knowledge and experience of achieving accreditation, and clarify the
steps involved. As mentors in this process, company contacts act as a point of call for
small and medium sized enterprises at both the application and the audit stages. The
response to the initiative has been extremely positive, with many accredited companies
volunteering to act as mentors since the initiative's inception.
Remuneration Tribunal
The secretariat to the Remuneration Tribunal advises and supports the tribunal, an
independent statutory body established under the Remuneration Tribunal Act 1973, to
inquire into and determine, or provide advice on, remuneration and related matters for a
range of Commonwealth offices. The secretariat is staffed by departmental employees
and supports the tribunal’s work by researching, analysing and providing briefings on
matters to be considered by the tribunal and by providing associated administrative
support.
The tribunal is required by the Remuneration Tribunal Act to report annually to the
Minister. Details of the work of the tribunal are provided in that report. The tribunal
usually determines a general adjustment to the remuneration of offices in its jurisdiction,
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Annual Report 2009-10
with effect from 1 July each year. The 2010 annual adjustment, as announced by the
tribunal on 31 May 2010, will take effect from 1 August 2010.
Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal
The Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal was established in 1984 to determine the pay
and allowances of members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), considering the
special nature of ADF service. The tribunal is supported by a secretariat staffed by
departmental employees.
The functions of the tribunal, as set out in section 58H of the Defence Act 1903, are to:
●
inquire into and determine the salaries and relevant allowances to be paid to
members
●
inquire into and make determinations in respect of prescribed matters that have
been referred to the tribunal.
The tribunal’s work is predominantly determined by the matters brought before it by the
parties, in particular by the ADF. To deal with those matters, the tribunal sits as required.
The tribunal presided over 22 matters in 2009–10 and made 21 determinations to be
applied ADF-wide or to specific branches, functions and employment categories. In
addition, the tribunal issued 17 determinations affecting the salaries and benefits of
senior officers across the ADF.
Departmental outputs for Outcome 5
Table 5.3
Departmental outputs performance information
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Payments are made in accordance with
approved timelines
All programs to meet
relevant administrative
targets set by quality
assurance processes in
DEEWR
All payments were made in
accordance with
administrative targets set
by quality assurance
processes
Payments made are based on
calculations which are accurate and in
accordance with approved guidelines
All programs to meet
relevant administrative
targets set by quality
assurance processes in
DEEWR
Payments made by all
programs were accurate and
met relevant administrative
targets
Timeliness of processing claims for the
General Employee Entitlements and
Redundancy Scheme
90% processed within 16 91.7% 99.4%
weeks of receipt
Program management
98% processed within 4
weeks of receipt of
verified entitlement data
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Accuracy of processing claims for the
General Employee Entitlements and
Redundancy Scheme
Over 98% of payments
not varied after appeal
99.3%
Timeliness of processing applications for 95% processed within 5
the Unlawful Termination Assistance
working days
Scheme
The Unlawful Termination
Assistance Scheme was
terminated on 30 June
2009. Residual
applications—100%
Timeliness of departmental responses to 95% completed within 10 98.9% of requests for
client requests for assessment of
working days
assessment were actioned
industrial instruments against the Code
within 10 working days
and Guidelines
High-quality Ministerial replies as
measured by the level of satisfaction of
Ministers and the Parliamentary
Secretary with the quality and timeliness
of the replies
Qualitative evaluation of Satisfieda
satisfaction using
feedback from the
Ministers and
Parliamentary Secretary
to the Secretary Analysis
of trends over time to
monitor percentage
delivered within agreed
timeframes
Level of satisfaction of the President of
the Remuneration Tribunal with the
quality and timeliness of the services
provided by the Tribunal Secretariat
Very good or above
The President of the
Tribunal reported a very
high level of satisfaction
with Secretariat
performance
Level of satisfaction of the President of
the Defence Force Remuneration
Tribunal with the quality and timeliness
of the services provided by the Tribunal
Secretariat
Very good or above
The President of the
Tribunal reported a very
high level of satisfaction
with Secretariat services
Satisfaction of stakeholders with the
management of the General Employee
Entitlements and Redundancy Scheme
Satisfied or above
93% of stakeholders rated
the department's
management of GEERS as
'satisfied or above'
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance indicator
Estimate
Actual
Client satisfaction with Unlawful
Termination assistance scheme and
Small Business Work and Family Grants
80% of clients surveyed
satisfied
100% of clients surveyed
were satisfied or extremely
satisfied with the small
business work and family
grants
A client satisfaction survey
was not undertaken for the
Unlawful Termination
Assistance Scheme, as the
scheme was terminated on
30 June 2009
Level of satisfaction of clients with the
provision of advice, information,
education and promotion of safer
workplaces on Australian Government
construction sites by the Office of the
Federal Safety Commissioner
Effective or above
Consultations held in
Canberra, Melbourne,
Hobart and Launceston
received an average
feedback rating of 4.1 out of
5 from participants (1 being
'poor' and 5 being
'excellent')
Level of satisfaction of the Chair of the
Safe Work Australia Council with the
services of Safe Work Australia
Very good or above
On 1 November 2009, Safe
Work Australia began
operating as an independent
statutory agency This
performance indicator will
be reported in Safe Work
Australia's annual report
Policy services
High-quality policy advice as measured
by the level of satisfaction of Ministers
and the Parliamentary Secretary with the
quality and timeliness of policy advice
Qualitative evaluation of Satisfieda
satisfaction and
timeliness using feedback
from the Ministers and
Parliamentary Secretary
to the Secretary
Level of satisfaction of the Minister with
legislation development services
Qualitative evaluation of Satisfieda
satisfaction and
timeliness using feedback
from the Ministers and
Parliamentary Secretary
to the Secretary
a During the year, ministers, parliamentary secretaries and their staff provide feedback on the level of
satisfaction with departmental advice during regular meetings with the department. Overall feedback from their
offices is that they recognise the significant efforts made by departmental staff to meet their requirements. The
volume of written material provided to the ministers and parliamentary secretaries remained steady over 2009–
10. The department provided training to staff and monitored the quality of ministerial correspondence and
briefings.
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Annual Report 2009-10
This table shows the satisfactory performance indicators for the promotion of "safer,
fairer and more productive workplaces for employers and employees," in terms of
program management and policy services.
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Part 3 – Corporate accountability
Executive committees
The Executive Meeting is the key decision-making body for the department. In exercising
its functions, the Executive Meeting enables the department to work across
organisational boundaries to achieve corporate objectives. It also promotes the core
principles of good public sector governance (accountability, transparency, integrity,
stewardship, efficiency, leadership and risk management) and uses those principles in its
decision making.
The department’s governance arrangements take account of the value of consultative
processes, but recognise that overall accountability rests with the Secretary, who has
primary authority and legal responsibility for managing the department.
A broader governance committee structure underpins the Executive Meeting. Those
committees are organised into three streams, based on their functional roles:
●
●
●
organisational stream—supports and monitors the department’s business.
Committees under this stream are
-
Accommodation Committee
-
Audit Committee
-
Business Management Committee
-
Information Technology Committee
-
People and Leadership Committee.
strategic linkages stream—discusses forward-looking policy and business linkages.
Committees under this stream are
-
Closing the Gap Committee
-
Economic Recovery
-
Employment, Migration and Skills Committee
-
DEEWR Implementation Steering Committee
-
Quality Committee
-
Strategic Information Management and Research Committee.
business stream—manages the business and implements policy at an outcome or
program level.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Committees are required to review their terms of reference and functional performance
annually to ensure that their decisions and policies are consistent and coherent. The
results of each review are provided to the Executive Meeting.
Ethical standards
The Public Service Act 1999, through the APS Code of Conduct and APS Values, sets the
framework for behavioural and ethical standards in the public service. These standards
govern how the department does its business, particularly in the behaviour of its
employees and in its relationships with the public, government and the parliament.
The department’s values and its standards of conduct are included in employee
performance and development plans and form an integral part of the department’s work
and leadership behaviours.
Departmental planning
Strategic plan
The DEEWR Strategic Plan 2008–2011 establishes the department’s vision, portfolio
responsibilities and behaviours. The plan reflects the government’s priorities for early
childhood development, quality education outcomes at all levels, a skilled workforce with
greater participation in successful workplaces and an inclusive society.
Our vision represents the overall outcome that the Australian Government has entrusted
to DEEWR—to create a productive and inclusive Australia. The plan can be found on the
department’s website www.deewr.gov.au.
Business planning
The department’s business plans are structured to align the work of the department with
its vision, and the goals and approaches outlined in the department’s strategic plan.
In 2009–10, key areas of departmental planning remain integrated in the department’s
business plans. The business plans connect the strategic risk assessment with business
priorities; identify mission critical activities and ensure that details are captured in
business continuity plans; identify actions in regard to responsibilities in relation to the
DEEWR Reconciliation Action Plan 2009–2011 (RAP) and Closing the Gap targets; and
include a workforce capability analysis that aligns the priorities of the department with its
budget and resources.
Enabling DEEWR’s business
Reconciliation Action Plan
In DEEWR, Indigenous business is everyone’s business. DEEWR’s RAP, launched on 27
May 2009 during Reconciliation Week, is built on the three themes of respect,
relationships and opportunities. It is a living document that includes a framework for
monitoring, reporting and reviewing its implementation. In its first 12 months, it has
brought about meaningful change by challenging all DEEWR employees to consider how
their work can improve outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
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Annual Report 2009-10
On 2 June 2010, DEEWR national office employees gathered for a morning tea to
celebrate the first anniversary of the launch of the RAP. The event began with local
Ngunnawal Elder Agnes Shea performing a Welcome to Country and speakers included Jill
Jepson, Chair of the RAP Implementation Working Group (IWG) and Ara Cresswell, coCEO of Reconciliation Australia. DEEWR’s Indigenous Leader, Kevin Brahim, launched the
RAP highlights video, which celebrates the achievements in the first 12 months. The
event concluded with employees enjoying a morning tea sprawled out on picnic rugs and
having a yarn in the spirit of reconciliation.
The department will report progress of the RAP to Reconciliation Australia in July 2010.
The report and the RAP highlights video will be available on the Reconciliation Australia
website.
Ara Cresswell of Reconciliation Australia addressing DEEWR employees at the
anniversary of the launch of the DEEWR Reconciliation Action Plan
The RAP IWG was formed in July 2009 to monitor and progress implementation activities.
At June 2010, the IWG consisted of our Indigenous Leader and group and branch
managers from across the department. Working groups have been established for each
deputy secretary’s area of responsibility and have proven to be a great success in
progressing RAP actions on the ground and promoting RAP principles to all DEEWR
employees.
Key achievements in the first 12 months of the RAP include:
●
The target of employing 330 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians by 30
June 2010 was exceeded.
●
More than 580 DEEWR employees attended cultural awareness training.
●
Whenever people management policies and initiatives were developed or revised,
they identified opportunities to support the RAP.
●
All relevant DEEWR publications highlighted, in each edition, best practices and
achievements in Closing the Gap.
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
Our Indigenous Leader, Kevin Brahim, and his Executive Team had a seat at key
DEEWR leadership forums.
●
Procurement plans included opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
businesses through the Indigenous Opportunities Policy.
●
a RAP and Closing the Gap template was included as part of all group business plans
for 2010–11.
The RAP will be refreshed in August and September 2010, which will give us an
opportunity to readjust timelines and finetune current targets based on the lessons learnt
over the past 12 months.
The RAP is available on the department’s website www.deewr.gov.au/Department/Pages/
ReconciliationActionPlan.aspx
Strategic people management and workforce capability
DEEWR’s Strategic Plan commits the department to creating a positive working
environment for our people. The People and Leadership Committee is responsible for
providing assurance to the department that its people management strategies are
appropriate and effective and that they enable DEEWR to meet its business goals.
The directions identified in the Blueprint for the Reform of Australian Government
Administration for the Australian Public Service are consistent with the department’s
focus, particularly in the areas of strategic leadership, workforce capability and
collaboration across agency, government and sectoral boundaries.
DEEWR’s capability requirements continue to evolve in response to changes in our
business priorities. The department anticipates and plans for these changes by
integrating business planning, workforce capability, resourcing and performance
management.
Under the stewardship of the People and Leadership Committee, learning and
development priorities were reviewed and endorsed by the Executive Meeting to ensure
that we continue to have the capacity to deliver key government priorities for all
Australians. The Executive Meeting will review these priorities annually in order to ensure
the sustainability of our workforce capability.
Consistent with our portfolio responsibilities, DEEWR encourages a learning culture.
Capability needs are identified at the organisational level through strategic, business and
workforce planning, and for teams and individuals through performance management and
Manager One Removed conversations. The Manager One Removed program provides an
opportunity for employees to build a relationship with their manager’s manager and to
discuss a broad range of issues including future career intentions, development priorities
and workplace environment issues.
Over the past year we focused on building sustainable capability by encouraging our
employees to look at development options available in the department, as well as at
formal training and development options. The latter includes external programs such as
those provided by the Australian and New Zealand School of Government and by the
Australian Public Service Commission, as well as internal targeted programs and forums.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Employees can also take advantage of study leave provisions. In 2009–10, we
collaborated with external stakeholders to develop partnerships aimed at providing
exchange opportunities between the department and community organisations and
higher education institutions.
Recruitment
DEEWR’s comprehensive recruitment strategy contains a range of integrated activities
designed to enhance the department’s capacity to achieve efficient and effective
recruitment outcomes by attracting, recruiting, engaging and retaining suitably qualified
people. The department has also introduced a comprehensive process (the ‘Onboarding’
program) to streamline the integration of new employees into the department.
Graduate program
Graduate recruitment is a key entry-level program for the department to refresh its
workforce. In 2010, 100 graduates commenced their 12 month program of
comprehensive on and off-the-job training. This is an increase of 13 over the 2009 cohort
of 87.
Indigenous recruitment
The department is committed to closing the gap on Indigenous disadvantage in terms of
both our portfolio responsibilities and our workforce. Recruiting, retaining and developing
capable and talented Indigenous Australian employees is one way that we can improve
DEEWR’s effectiveness in achieving outcomes for Indigenous Australians.
The Australian Government has set a target to increase Indigenous employment levels to
a minimum of 2.7 per cent across the public sector. DEEWR’s Reconciliation Action Plan
2009–2011 includes a target of 330 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees by
June 2010. At 30 June 2010, DEEWR had exceeded that target; 341 of our employees
identified as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islanders, an increase of 33 over the previous
year.
DEEWR has continued to build on its existing entry-level programs such as the Graduate
and Cadetship programs, has implemented the Indigenous Australian Government
Development Program and has accessed APSC recruitment initiatives to attract and
recruit Indigenous employees in 2010.
Table P3.1 Ongoing and non-ongoing full-time and part-time employees selfidentifying as Indigenous Australians, at 30 June 2010
Employee
Ethnicity
Ongoing
full-time
Ongoing
part-time
Nonongoing
full-time
Nonongoing
part-time
Total
Indigenous
298
26
16
1
341
Non-Indigenous
4796
639
219
38
5692
Total
5094
665
235
39
6033
Indigenous Australian Government Development Program
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Annual Report 2009-10
DEEWR reinforces its strong commitment to being an employer of choice for Indigenous
Australians in its recruitment, retention and career development strategies for all
Indigenous people. The department continues to develop, inform and monitor its
successful engagement in this area through two key strategic forums: its Indigenous
Leadership group and its Mura Kaimel -Yarrangi Committee—a subcommittee of the
People and Leadership Committee.
With the support of these strategic forums, the People and Leadership Committee
approved the 2010 intake of 40 new employees under the Indigenous Australian
Government Development Program (IAGDP). The IAGDP 2010 built on the department's
success with previous programs in 2006 and 2007, and features entry-level career
opportunities combined with workplace learning and structured, accredited training.
Sharing this whole of government initiative was an important feature of the program:
DEEWR partnered with nine other public service agencies to achieve an additional 40
places, thus bringing the total number of IAGDP 2010 participants to 80.
'Living in Cairns, I was finding it difficult to get back into the public sector but when I saw
the advert for the program in the Koori Mail, I thought I'd give it a go. It has turned out
to be a great option for me: I know that I am part of a large group of people from a
really wide range of life skills, but also I know that I have someone to talk to as I go
through the program.' Kay Oliver, Cairns
'IAGDP is a fantastic opportunity for Indigenous people and it's great that the department
is leading the way on Closing the Gap initiatives—it's a really good example for business
to follow. I've told lots of people in the Bathurst community about the program.' Rachel
Hull, Orange
'I was so pleased that Minister Arbib was able to find time to speak to us, and to me in
particular. He created a relaxed atmosphere and I found him to be very interesting and
informative. It is an experience I'm very thankful for and one that will be embedded in
my memory for years to come.' Tim Holt, Canberra
Justin Ling, Senator the Hon Mark Arbib, Minister for Employment Participation,
and Tim Holt
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Remuneration and conditions of employment
The DEEWR Collective Agreement 2009–2011 brought together complex and diverse
arrangements for the department’s non-SES employees under a single set of policies,
remuneration and conditions.
Performance management systems
DEEWR’s performance management system provides a common and consistent basis for
performance management where managers and employees equally commit to, and
understand, their respective performance management responsibilities. As part of the
performance management system, separate ratings are provided for both key
deliverables and observable work behaviours. Both ratings are given equal weight to
emphasise the importance not only of what we deliver, but also how we deliver it.
Workforce profile
At 30 June 2010, the department had 6033 employees.
Note with tables P3.2, P3.3 and P3.4, the figures in brackets are DEEWR’s statistics as
reported in the Annual Report 2008–09.
Table P3.2 Employees, by classification and gender, 30 June 2010 (2009)
Classification
Female
Male
Total
Cadets
3 (4)
4 (2)
7 (6)
Apprentices/Trainees
2 (2)
1 (1)
3 (3)
61 (48)
37 (34)
98 (82)
APS Level 1
9 (5)
7 (10)
16 (15)
APS Level 2
19 (17)
19 (17)
38 (34)
APS Level 3
147(145)
95 (90)
242 (235)
APS Level 4
433 (519)
226 (223)
659 (742)
APS Level 5
687 (698)
379 (378)
1066 (1076)
APS Level 6
866 (826)
528 (516)
1394 (1342)
Executive Level 1
919 (890)
683 (685)
1602 (1575)
Executive Level 2
345 (333)
284 (284)
629 (617)
Government Lawyer
15 (32)
11 (16)
26 (48)
Senior Government Lawyer
21 (24)
13 (15)
34 (39)
21 (0)
14 (2)
35 (2)
1 (0)
1 (0)
2 (0)
SES Band 1
76 (79)
59 (61)
135 (140)
SES Band 2
26 (22)
12 (13)
38 (35)
Graduates
Principal Government Lawyer
Public Affairs Officer
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Annual Report 2009-10
Classification
Female
Male
Total
SES Band 3
3 (2)
5 (6)
8 (8)
Secretary
1 (1)
0 (0)
1 (1)
3655 (3647)
2378 (2353)
6033 (6000)
TOTAL
Table P3.3 Employees, by employment status and gender, 30 June 2010 (2009)
Status
Female
Male
Total
Full-time
2934 (2974)
2160(2150)
5094 (5124)
Part-time
566 (532)
99 (77)
665 (609)
3500 (3506)
2259 (2227)
5759 (5733)
Full-time
128 (118)
107 (107)
235 (225)
Part-time
27 (23)
12 (19)
39 (42)
155 (141)
119 (126)
274 (267)
3655 (3647)
2378 (2353)
6033 (6000)
Ongoing
Subtotal
Non-ongoing
Subtotal
TOTAL
Table 3.4
Employees, by location and gender, 30 June 2010 (2009)
Location
Female
Male
Total
New South Wales
195(193)
184 (178)
379 (371)
Victoria
129(132)
81 (76)
210(208)
179 (164)
77 (75)
256 (239)
95 (95)
38 (39)
133 (134)
107 (98)
46 (46)
153 (144)
34 (39)
22 (28)
56 (67)
2829 (2803)
1895 (1854)
4724 (4657)
79 (116)
26 (50)
105 (166)
8 (7)
9 (7)
17 (14)
3655 (3647)
2378 (2353)
6033
Queensland
Western Australia
South Australia
Tasmania
Australian Capital Territory
Northern Territory
Overseas
TOTAL
This table shows the number of full-time and part-time employees by gender as of 30
June 2010. There were a total of 3655 females and 2378 males, for a total of 6033, an
increase of 33 over 2009.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Table P3.5 Separation statistics, by classification, 30 June 2010
Classification
Total
Cadets
1
Apprentices
0
Graduates
8
APS Level 1
4
APS Level 2
16
APS Level 3
65
APS Level 4
147
APS Level 5
169
APS Level 6
176
Executive Level 1
234
Executive Level 2
90
Government Lawyer
6
Senior Government Lawyer
5
Principal Government Lawyer
6
SES Band 1
15
SES Band 2
6
SES Band 3
2
Secretary
0
TOTAL
950
This table shows that 950 people separated from the department between 1 July 2009
and 30 June 2010. Of these, 685 were ongoing employees and 265 non-ongoing
employees. Of the ongoing employee separations, 267 had voluntarily transferred to
another agency, 206 had resigned, 118 had transferred to another agency as a result of
machinery of government changes, 67 had retired, 11 had been dismissed and the
remainder separated for a variety of other reasons.
Employment agreements
When the DEEWR Collective Agreement 2009–2011 came into effect on 30 April 2009, it
brought non-SES employees under a single set of conditions. The few non-SES
employees (approximately 18 at 30 June 2010) who still have their terms and conditions
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Annual Report 2009-10
provided through Australian Workplace Agreements (AWAs) are generally on long leave
from the department.
Table P3.6 Employment agreement statistics, 30 June 2010
Employees
Section 24(1)
AWA
CA
Total
180
0
0
180
0
18
5834
5852
180
18
5834
6032
SES
Non-SES
TOTAL
Note: The Secretary is not included in the above table as remuneration arrangements for departmental
secretaries are set under a separate instrument.
Salary ranges and non-salary benefits
The agreement provides a range of modern, flexible, streamlined terms and conditions to
support the balance of work and personal responsibilities, to create a positive work
environment and to encourage people from diverse backgrounds to join, and remain
with, the department. Flexible work arrangements include access to part-time work, up
to eight weeks purchased leave, 14 weeks paid maternity/maternal leave which can be
taken at half pay, flextime, parental leave and studies assistance.
Table P3.7 Salary ranges, 30 June 2010
Classification
Total ($)
APS Level 1
39 430—43 111
APS Level 2
46 310—49 350
APS Level 3
43 500—54 376
APS Level 4
56 253—63 294
APS Level 5
55 000—72 160
APS Level 6
61 000—82 615
Executive Level 1
85 868—106 187
Executive Level 2
93 000—137 832
Government Lawyer
Senior Government Lawyer
57 826—76 790
80 000—106 651
Principal Government Lawyer
115 276—144 986
SES Band 1
124 925—196 209
SES Band 2
179 376—229 638
SES Band 3
259 359—286 917
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Annual Report 2009-10
Performance pay
In April 2009 the majority of non-SES employees moved on to the DEEWR Collective
Agreement 2009–2011 which discontinued performance pay. As a result only a minimal
number of DEEWR employees remain covered by AWAs that provide access to
performance pay.
For the 2009–10 performance year three employees at the APS6 to EL2 level were
granted performance pay totalling $24 000.
Occupational health and safety
In accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1991 (OHS Act), DEEWR is
committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment. DEEWR promotes a
proactive approach to health and safety management based on effective communication
and consultation, systematic identification, assessment and control of risks and the
encouragement of self-responsibility in healthy lifestyles.
Through its Health and Safety Management Arrangements, the department demonstrates
its commitment to meeting its duty of care under the OHS Act.
As provided in the Health and Safety Management Arrangements, the Peak OHS
Committee met quarterly throughout the year to facilitate communication between
management and employees on health and safety matters. The Peak OHS Committee
comprises representatives from state, territory, regional and national offices. It
represents the collective interests of the employer, employees, contractors and visitors
and is the primary consultative mechanism for OHS in the department.
A key OHS achievement over the course of the year was the development of DEEWR’s
Health and Wellbeing (OHS) Strategic Plan 2010—2012: Wellbeing is our Welfare, which
articulates our departmental OHS goals and priorities to improve health, safety and
wellbeing for DEEWR employees, continue the momentum towards eliminating workplace
injuries, managing illness and supporting employee health. The strategy commits the
department to undertake a range of health and wellbeing initiatives over the next two
years to support OHS education and awareness and target relevant priority areas for
DEEWR.
The department continued to raise awareness of health and wellbeing in the workplace by
conducting workplace presentations and workshops, distributing newsletters and staff
notices, participating in Safe Work Australia Week activities and providing new employees
with OHS training through the Onboarding program.
The health, safety and wellbeing of our people were big considerations in the design and
fit-out of the department’s new national office building and in the development of
assistive technologies for DEEWR employees with disability. The 2010 in-house influenza
vaccination program was exceptionally well received by our employees; 34 per cent
received the vaccination.
Reporting
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Annual Report 2009-10
In 2009–10, falls, slips and trips made up the highest proportion (24 per cent) of
reported OHS incidents involving injury or lost time, with body stressing incidents making
up the next highest proportion (19 per cent), as shown in Table P3.8.
The OHS team carried out eight detailed investigations into reported incidents, including
those involving slips, trips and falls and environmental factors.
Table P3.8 Reported occupational health and safety incidents, by type, 2009-10
Mechanism of incident
Incidents (%)
Other (hazards reported—nil injury; nil time lost. No
investigation undertaken)
26
Falls, slips and trips
24
Body stressing
19
Vehicle accidents (includes travel to and from work)
8
Heat, environment and other environmental factors
6
Chemicals and other substances
5
Being hit by moving objects
4
Hitting objects with the body
4
Mental stress
3
Biological factors
1
Sound and pressure
0
Other (hazards reported—nil injury; nil time lost. No
investigation undertaken)
26
DEEWR’s 2009 time off work rate was 4.10 weeks; the APS average was 4.53 weeks in
the same period.
In 2009–10, Comcare was notified of 17 incidents pursuant to section 68 of the OHS Act.
In 2009–10, no provisional improvement notices were issued under sections 29, 46 and
47 of the OHS Act by a health and safety representative to the department.
Investigations
During the reporting year, Comcare conducted no investigations related to undertakings
carried on by the department under sections 29, 46 or 47 of the OHS Act.
Assisting work/life balance—benefiting DEEWR
In February 2009, Angie Stiles returned to work as a part-time director after maternity
leave for her second child. Angie found it challenging trying to manage a team of around
10 employees with various projects in three days per week and felt guilty that she wasn't
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Annual Report 2009-10
there for her team the other two days. Angie's balance between family and work time
was in jeopardy, so she approached her branch manager and proposed a job-share
arrangement.
The successful candidate, Angie McKenzie, also worked three days per week and was
looking to continue doing so for the foreseeable future. Both Angies have two young
children of similar ages and this helps to understand each other's home life. Each week,
they share one day in the office, which allows them to attend meetings together, catch
up and do some team planning.
The Angies share the management of the team and how it operates, but split the projects
within the team. Each director has primary responsibility for projects within the team,
however the other maintains a high level of understanding of the project and the detail is
managed by the primary director.
This arrangement provides advantages for the department. The department pays an
average staffing level of approximately 1.2 people, but benefits from having two
directors. The Angies benefit from being able to bounce ideas off each other and share
the challenges and successes of the job while maintaining a work/life balance and
spending valuable time with their children.
While this is a fairly new arrangement, it is working extremely well. When their children
start school they would like to continue the arrangement and engage in further study and
possible career progression.
Better ways of working
The Better Ways of Working (BWOW) initiative provides our people with an opportunity to
challenge existing business processes and to identify opportunities to improve the way
we work with each other and our stakeholders. BWOW is not a single project or outcome,
but an approach to the way we work. It is about working smarter together for a more
collaborative and efficient DEEWR.
In October 2009, the department conducted a survey to determine employees’ level of
satisfaction with the services provided to them and to identify areas for improvement.
Over 3000 DEEWR employees participated in the survey. The results emphasised the
need to refocus services to meet the needs of an increasingly busy workforce coping with
a rapidly changing environment. In response, the department established the Better
Ways of Working Steering Committee in December 2009, which developed an
implementation plan with four overarching strategies. The strategies are:
●
making it easier to find people and information
●
making our systems easier to use
●
making better use of the intranet
●
improving each application and service.
Other BWOW initiatives include:
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
a project toolbox to assist in achieving a consistent approach to project
management within the department
●
a Business Improvement Facilitators Panel to help improve and streamline processes
●
a programs portal on the DEEWR intranet to provide program content and metainformation for the department’s programs and activities.
The department has also published practical guides to assist people in their daily work;
examples include a practical guide on business process improvement and a stakeholder
engagement toolkit.
Service charter
The service charter explains the department’s service commitments and standards. It
also provides the general business context within which the department’s program
specific service-level agreements operate. Employees are encouraged to conduct
program implementation and service delivery within the overall framework of the
department’s service charter. A link to the service charter is prominently featured on the
department’s intranet home page for the easy reference of all DEEWR employees and on
the department’s website www.deewr.gov.au/Department/Pages/ About.aspx.
Implementing the government’s initiatives
A key function of all government agencies is the implementation and delivery of program
and policy initiatives. DEEWR has a robust corporate governance structure in place to
ensure policy and program initiatives are implemented seamlessly and to a consistently
high standard in accordance with government and community expectations and
accountability responsibilities.
One of DEEWR’s key governance committees is the DEEWR Implementation Steering
Committee (DISC), which oversees the implementation of key commitments and provides
strategic direction for their implementation. DISC is responsible for monitoring local
governance, risk and implementation plans and ensuring that arrangements are in place
to meet external reporting obligations.
DISC takes a consolidated and high-level approach to ensuring that emerging issues
across the department are identified and that strategies are in place to address them.
DISC aims to assist the department to maximise delivery outcomes by sharing learning
from previous implementation strategies.
Ministerial and parliamentary services
During 2009–10, the parliamentary workflow remained steady, as reflected in the
statistics in Table P3.9. On 28 June 2010, the Prime Minister announced that the Hon
Simon Crean MP would be the Minister for Education, Employment and Workplace
Relations and the Minister for Social Inclusion.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Table P3.9 Parliamentary workflow 2009-10
Responsible area
Department
Agencies
Total
Ministerial
corresponden
ce (received)a
Briefings
Question
Time Briefs
Answers to
parliamentar
y questions
on
Senate
Estimates
questions on
notice
(tabled)
27 530
4603
621
158
954
877
66
13
1
176
28 407
4669
634
159
1130
a An estimated 22 241 campaign letters were also received, but are not included in these figures.
State Network
At 30 June 2010, the state network represented just over 20 per cent of DEEWR’s total
workforce, with 1214 employees, including around 220 Indigenous employees. Through
its extensive network of offices across Australia the department has a presence in all
capital cities and 41 regional locations, either in DEEWR regional offices (of which there
are 22) or in Indigenous Coordination Centres managed by the Department of Families,
Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA).DEEWR’s national
network is the department’s primary means of delivering program services. It seeks to
provide integrated and flexible place-based service delivery and works effectively across
agency and jurisdictional boundaries to deliver joined-up services. It also aims to provide
frontline perspectives into national policy design and program implementation and
evaluation.
State-based employees have well-developed relationships with local organisations,
including state government departments, industry and educational bodies, the
community and the non-government sector. Those relationships strengthen linkages and
help achieve outcomes across the portfolio.
Employees work with other Australian Government agencies such as FaHCSIA, the
Department of Health and Ageing and Centrelink. Improving outcomes for Indigenous
Australians is a particular emphasis, with the network playing a significant role in
implementing and linking program investment and support in relation to the four key
targets in the government’s Closing the Gap agenda for which DEEWR is responsible.
Network employees manage elements of more than 100 programs in employment,
Indigenous education and employment, vocational education and training, schools, early
childhood education and child care. They engage with stakeholders to identify local
solutions and gather local intelligence that can actively shape programs and policies.
Examples include ongoing work with communities in Cape York, the Anangu Pitjantjatjara
Yankunytjatjara lands and remote regions of Western Australia and the Northern
Territory, as well as a range of program responses in urban and regional centres.
Network employees were involved in a diverse range of information and consultation
sessions with external stakeholders throughout the year, including employment and
careers forums and expos, the National Quality Framework for Early Education and Care,
the Disability Employment Services Review and consultations on the Community
Development Employment Projects program and the Indigenous Employment Program.
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Annual Report 2009-10
The network enables the department to be responsive to emerging community needs.
Some examples in 2009–10 include responding to localised impacts of the global financial
crisis, supporting the government’s Education Revolution agenda and implementing the
Job Services Australia service arrangements. The network works across agencies and
engages local stakeholders in developing policy solutions to emergency challenges such
as the Black Saturday bushfires in Victoria and floods in Queensland, providing assistance
to support the retention and retraining of former insulation workers and attracting and
developing Indigenous people for employment in a range of public and private sector
organisations.
The network has an important ongoing role in ensuring that all of the DEEWR-related
Australian Government initiatives are implemented successfully and achieve results.
Risk management
DEEWR participated in Comcover’s annual Risk Management Benchmarking program,
which assesses DEEWR’s risk management capabilities against other participating
agencies. In 2010, DEEWR achieved an overall risk management maturity rating of
‘structured’ with key achievements in the areas of communication and training, positive
risk culture and risk management policy and objectives. The result placed DEEWR
considerably above the average of both the peer group agencies and of all the agencies
that participated.
The integration of risk management into standard business practices is supported by a
corporate philosophy and culture that encourages all employees to manage risk as part of
their everyday activities. The Executive and senior management identify and manage
DEEWR’s strategic risks through a department-wide coordinated risk assessment process
completed as part of business planning. Risk is also managed through fraud controls,
business continuity, project management, procurement, finance and other business
functions.
Building on this strong base this reporting year, DEEWR’s Risk Management Framework is
being refined to further strengthen and integrate risk management practices within
DEEWR. Where necessary, this will refresh elements of the existing framework, to reflect
best practice and emphasise a positive risk culture in DEEWR. This includes developing
DEEWR’s new risk register in the form of the Enterprise Wide Risk Management System,
designed to provide a central repository for all DEEWR risk assessments.
Information and communications technology
Information and communications technology underpinned the department’s activities,
from policy development and program administration, through to administrative
processes such as purchasing, leave and flextime recording, salary processing and
records management.
The department’s visible ICT assets ranged from personal computers, printers and
phones, through to email and office productivity tools, electronic forms, document
libraries, websites, databases, search engines and program support systems. These
assets were supported by infrastructure and facilities including three data centres, an
extensive data and voice network, a large mainframe, over 1800 servers, and a highspeed secure internet gateway.
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Annual Report 2009-10
This technology delivered services that improved productivity through automating key
business processes. The Higher Education Information Management System allowed the
department to provide important information to students and facilitated the collection of
key statistics from the tertiary sector. In the same way, the Employment System
provided critical information to job seekers and job service providers and collected the
information necessary to measure performance and make payments to providers.
Without these systems much of this work would have been too resource-intensive to be
practical.
Corporate systems such as ‘BUYiT’—the department’s electronic procurement
management system—helped employees comply with the complex set of legislation and
guidelines under which they operate as public servants. The Connect HR system and a
range of electronic forms automated time and paper-consuming workflows and
processes. The department’s intranet and internet provided rich information resources for
employees and citizens, and the department began using some of the interactive features
of web 2.0 technologies to support collaboration inside and outside the department.
Review of the Australian Government’s Use of Information and Communication
Technology
The immediate focus in implementing the recommendations of the Review of the
Australian Government’s Use of Information and Communication Technology (Gershon
review) was on reducing the ICT business-as-usual budget and contributing to the goal of
reducing the total number of ICT contractors across the Australian Public Service by 50
per cent over a period of three years (by October 2011).
The department worked closely with the Department of Finance and Deregulation on the
development of an ICT financial taxonomy and was involved in the development of some
of the common procurement arrangements. These arrangements are expected to deliver
significant benefits across government, especially for smaller agencies.
The department made significant progress on implementing ‘Green IT’ as part of an
overall sustainable ICT program led by the Department of the Environment, Water,
Heritage and the Arts. A flagship effort was working towards the implementation of green
ICT capability within 50 Marcus Clarke Street (DEEWR’s new building).
Services for other agencies
The department continued to provide ICT services to the Australian Public Service
Commission, the Australian Building and Construction Commission, Safe Work Australia
and the Fair Work Ombudsman. By using the economies of scale available to a larger
organisation, the department was able to help these agencies avoid some of the costs
involved in managing a high-quality ICT environment. The base service involved desktop
computers, network communications, applications hosting and storage. Some clients also
received telephony services and application development and maintenance services.
Social policy
All Australians should have the opportunity and support they need to participate fully in
community life, develop their potential and be treated with dignity and respect. The
department works to give Australians the capabilities, opportunities and resources to:
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
participate in education and training
●
participate in employment, in voluntary work and in family and caring
●
engage and connect with people and with local community resources
●
influence decisions that affect them.
The department develops policies for government that promote the social and economic
engagement of people in activities to increase financial independence and overall
engagement. Part of this work involves ensuring that programs and services across the
department provide opportunities for people to participate, especially those in
disadvantaged groups.
The department is working to improve the quality of essential government services in
areas such as education and training, employment, health and housing. It aims to ensure
that those services work effectively in the most disadvantaged communities by
developing partnerships between governments, businesses and the community and
engaging disadvantaged communities to help design and run programs to address their
particular needs.
To address the causes and consequences of social and economic disadvantage, the
government has identified six priority areas that need ongoing actions:
●
helping jobless families with children to increase work opportunities, improve
parenting and build capacity
●
improving the life chances of children at greatest risk of long-term disadvantage
●
reducing the incidence of homelessness
●
improving outcomes for people living with disability or mental illness, and their
carers
●
closing the gap for Indigenous Australians
●
breaking the cycle of entrenched and multiple disadvantage in particular
neighbourhoods and communities.
The department worked closely with other governments and agencies and with
community and business organisations to develop whole of government responses and
coordinated policies.
Key priorities in social policy
The key priorities for 2009–10 were:
●
developing policy to improve participation of those most in need of support,
including people with disability, homeless people or those at risk of homelessness,
people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, refugees, exoffenders, jobless families and low-income parents
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
contributing to the design of measures to strengthen education, training and
employment opportunities for young people, particularly those who are at risk of
making poor transitions; the new measures target vulnerable young people and set
out a vision for all young people (aged 12–24 years) to grow up safe, healthy,
happy and resilient
●
overseeing the Improving School Enrolment and Attendance through Welfare Reform
measure, to encourage income support recipients in selected locations to ensure
that their children attend school
●
implementing the Family-centred Employment Project and further developing
strategies for improving the participation of jobless families and parents on income
support
●
further developing policy on income support measures, including contributing to the
Australia’s Future Tax System review
●
improving the department’s capacity to undertake policy development and analysis
and program design and delivery while considering the differing needs of women
and men.
Key achievements
In 2009–10:
●
An evidence base to underpin policy and programs was consolidated. This included
in-house and commissioned research and analysis using administrative and survey
data, as well as extensive engagement with international organisations, including
the OECD, in order to draw on international best practice and ensure an
international context for the department’s work.
●
The department provided social policy advice, influencing policy development and
program design across the portfolio.
●
The department made a significant contribution to the homelessness agenda. This
included working with FaHCSIA, Centrelink and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs
to implement the weekly payments initiative for Centrelink’s most vulnerable
customers, including people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, and
contributed to the Progress and Action Plan for the Australian Government’s White
Paper on Homelessness. A number of Innovation Fund and Jobs Fund projects are
contributing to outcomes for homeless people, and Job Services Australia
homelessness specialists were also introduced in July 2009. The department also
supported the National Employment Services Association and Homelessness
Australia—a project to develop resources to improve relationships between
employment and homelessness services providers.
●
The Family-centred Employment Project is a demonstration project that began in
July 2010 and will end on 30 June 2013, aiming to address the disadvantage
experienced by jobless families. The project partners service providers with DEEWR
and local organisations to meet the needs of jobless families whose members are
likely to have entrenched and multiple barriers to participation. The project involves
case managers working with individual families to deliver wraparound servicing for
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Annual Report 2009-10
all family members so that the parents are in a position to participate in jobs and
training. In 2009–10, the department consolidated stakeholder support and finalised
the project design.
●
The National Mental Health and Disability Employment Strategy was released on 14
September 2009. The strategy sets out priority actions to help Australians with
disability, including mental illness, into work. The department also made a
significant contribution to the development of the National Disability Strategy.
●
Assistance was provided for the Australia’s Future Tax System Review, including
analysis and modelling work for the review secretariat and participation in the crossagency advisory committee.
●
The Improving School Enrolment and Attendance through Welfare Reform measure
was extended to trial sites in Queensland. Analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of
the measure in terms of student enrolment and attendance at the trial sites
continued during the year.
●
In 2009, the government agreed to develop and release a national statement to set
out its vision, priorities and commitments for combating long-term disadvantage.
The statement, A Stronger, Fairer Australia, was released at the inaugural Social
Inclusion Conference on 28 January 2010. It provided a narrative for the
government’s Social Inclusion Agenda and detailed the government’s current and
future priorities. The department provided input to the development of the
statement, which is available at www.socialinclusion.gov.au.
●
The department’s spatial analysis platform, SOLAR, was expanded to support placebased policy development in areas such as homelessness, unemployment, provision
of employment and education services. This capacity has been enhanced with the
addition of satellite imagery and photos.
Social policy initiatives
The department develops and implements initiatives that provide opportunities to
participate socially and economically for individuals and communities who are
experiencing disadvantage.
Social Inclusion Agenda
The department has established a sound working relationship with the Australian Social
Inclusion Board, which advises the Australian Government on social inclusion in Australia.
This involved giving and receiving advice on a number of issues, including the Familycentred Employment Project, the National Early Childhood Development Strategy, the
Minimum Wage Review, and Youth Allowance changes under the Review of Australian
Higher Education.
The board provided advice on a range of specific matters referred to it by the
government, most notably jobless families with children, children at greatest risk of longterm disadvantage, geographical disadvantage, and measuring social inclusion.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Since June 2009, the department has managed the government’s Social Inclusion
website, working closely with other government agencies and external organisations to
maintain and update the content of the site.
National Social Inclusion Statement
In January 2010, the government issued its National Social Inclusion Statement, A
Stronger, Fairer Australia, which sets out the government’s vision and strategy for social
inclusion both now and into the future. It builds on the many reforms and investments
that have been made previously, including those in workplace relations, employment,
pension reform, housing and homelessness, early childhood education and schools.
The statement also provides a framework for action and outlines a series of principles
and priorities to guide governments, in partnership with the business and not-for-profit
sectors, on how they can work with disadvantaged Australians and with each other. This
framework builds on five pillars:
●
economic growth to improve social outcomes over time and between generations
●
equitable social policy that provides adequate safety nets, increases the productive
capacity of low-skilled Australians and supports people to reinforce their capabilities,
resilience and independence
●
quality services that target the right support directly to the most disadvantaged
individuals and communities
●
strong families and communities that are cohesive, free from violence and resilient
●
partnership for change that allows all levels of governments, businesses and not-forprofit organisations to work together to build a stronger, fairer Australia.
National Compact
The department contributed to the development of the National Compact, launched by
the former Prime Minister, the Hon Kevin Rudd MP, on 17 March 2010. The National
Compact is an agreement between the government and the ‘third sector’ that provides a
framework on how to work together to deliver improved policy and services and combat
economic and social disadvantage.
There are currently more than 300 third sector organisations registered as National
Compact partners on the website www.nationalcompact.gov.au. There are also some 18
Compact Champions registered on the website, including the department’s Secretary,
Lisa Paul.
The department has contributed to the work of the Senior Officials Group, which is
developing a Commonwealth Action Plan to guide implementation of the compact,
focusing on its eight priority action areas, including reducing red tape, streamlining
reporting and acting to improve paid and unpaid workforce issues and to improve funding
and procurement processes.
Third sector reform
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The not-for-profit (NFP) sector is large and diverse, with around 600 000 organisations.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics has identified 59 000 economically significant NFPs,
which contributed $43 billion to Australia’s GDP and 8 per cent of employment in 2006–
07. Some 4.6 million volunteers work with NFPs, with a wage equivalent value of $15
billion.
The Productivity Commission reviewed the contribution of the NFP sector, and the
department contributed to the work of the review. The commission’s report, released in
February 2010, found that the current regulatory framework for the sector is complex,
lacks coherence and sufficient transparency, and is costly to the NFPs. It made 39
recommendations.
Parents on income support
The department, in cooperation with Centrelink, implemented the More Flexible
Participation Requirements for Parents measure. The measure was announced by the
government in the 2009–10 Budget and will help parents balance their income support
payment participation activities more effectively with their family responsibilities.
Income support analysis
The department undertakes analyses and simulation modelling of the design of income
support programs to better understand financial incentives to work and save and
interactions between income support and the rest of the tax and welfare system.
This supports the department in progressing broader goals in social and economic policy,
including wage-setting policy; prevention of social exclusion and mitigation of financial
poverty; labour supply and labour force participation; and human capital development,
including incentives to raise skills.
Disadvantaged groups
Policy development continued during the year with the aim of ensuring that the most
vulnerable in society are provided with support to increase their economic participation.
In 2009–10, the department made substantial progress in cross-portfolio collaboration
and policy development to improve participation by socially excluded groups, including
disadvantaged young people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse
backgrounds, people in the justice system, ex-offenders, refugees, jobless families and
people with disability, including mental illness.
Learning from demonstration projects
New initiatives are developed and trialled to provide opportunities for individuals who are
experiencing disadvantage to participate socially and economically.
One example is the Family-centred Employment Project, which is a demonstration project
over three years across three sites: Goodna, Queensland; Broadmeadows, Victoria; and
Mansfield Park and Angle Park, South Australia. The project addresses the education and
employment needs of participants by taking a family-wide view of their needs and the
existing services within the community. In practice, this means that case managers work
with individual families to deliver wraparound servicing for all family members so that the
parents are in a position to participate in jobs and training. For example, child care might
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be arranged and transport problems solved so a parent can accept a job that has been
specifically designed to suit the parent’s available working hours. An early childhood
expert officer will work with parents and children aged up to five years to link them into
appropriate early education and child care services. Lessons from the Family-centred
Employment Project will be important to informing future policy initiatives.
Another example is the Improving School Enrolment and Attendance through Welfare
Reform measure, which encourages parents to enrol their children at school and to
ensure that the children attend regularly by threatening to suspend income support
payments if they do not. SEAM is a trial currently operating across six Northern Territory
communities, in the Logan area in southern Brisbane and in the remote Queensland
communities of Mornington Island and Doomadgee.
Women and families
The department is responsible for analysis and policy development in relation to
participation by women and families. During the year, there was further development of a
strong focus on women, work and family across the portfolio, including work with other
agencies, such as FaHCSIA. Issues of focus included barriers and incentives to work, such
as family and caring responsibilities, and improving the economic security of women.
Women’s economic security is closely tied to broader government goals such as reducing
reliance on welfare payments and providing families with the means to support
themselves financially. In addition, women are a relatively underutilised pool of labour,
and therefore have a potential role to play in improving workforce participation and
productivity.
Research and evaluation
The department undertakes or commissions in-house and external research, data
analysis and program and policy evaluations.
Evidence-based research and analysis support policy development across the portfolio.
There is a particular focus on the dynamics of income support receipt, workforce
participation patterns and the impact of education and training in the light of Australian
labour market conditions. In 2009–10, evaluation and research work continued to
support policy development and program delivery relating to disadvantaged groups,
contributing towards the portfolio goal of creating a productive and inclusive Australia.
The department’s research and evaluation capability is supported by the ongoing
development of primary data collections, including longitudinal surveys and
administrative datasets, particularly of income support recipients and job seekers.
The department’s strategic information and research capability is also supported by a
program of commissioned research, including work by the Melbourne Institute of Applied
Economic and Social Research and the National Centre for Vocational Education
Research.
The department works in collaboration with other research institutions, including the
Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, the Social Policy Research
Centre at the University of New South Wales, Social Policy Evaluation Analysis and
Research at the Australian National University and the Harris School of Public Policy at
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the University of Chicago. The department also maintains a panel of selected research
organisations to facilitate the commissioning of research and evaluation work.
Geospatial data development
The department aims to support community development through the creation, analysis
and dissemination of spatial information and evidence. During the year, significant
progress was made on the expansion of the department’s spatial analysis platform,
SOLAR, to support place-based policy development in areas such as homelessness,
unemployment, provision of employment and education services. Specialised geospatial
advice, spatial data management and mapping services for line areas, and external
collaborations, are also provided.
Engagement with international organisations
The department maintained its high level of engagement with the OECD and other
international organisations during 2009–10 to ensure that an effective evidence base is
available to support and drive the policy agenda in Australia. The department also
participated in multinational meetings to share and learn from international best practice,
such as the Windsor Conference of employment and social welfare ministries from the
major English-speaking countries and a regional meeting of the World Association of
Public Employment Services.
The department works closely with the OECD to shape and drive the OECD research and
analytical agenda, based on domestic policy evidence and requirements, international
developments and international comparability. This includes actively participating in key
committees that govern the work of the OECD, including the Education Policy Committee,
the Centre for Educational Research and Innovation, the Employment, Labour and Social
Affairs Committee and the Co-operative Action Programme on Local Economic and
Employment Development. To facilitate this work, the department is represented by a
Minister–Counsellor (Education and Employment) on Australia’s permanent delegation to
the OECD, based in Paris.
The department also manages Australia’s participation in a range of other OECD projects,
including the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies, the
Programme for International Student Assessment, the Teacher and Learning
International Survey and the International Indicators of Education Systems, the OECD’s
education statistics area.
Audit processes
Internal Audit
Internal Audit provides objective and independent assurance to the Secretary, the
Executive and the DEEWR Audit Committee that the department’s key controls are
operating efficiently, effectively and ethically.
Through the Annual Audit Work Plan, Internal Audit assists the department to achieve its
objectives by providing a systematic, disciplined approach to evaluating and improving
the effectiveness and efficiency of risk and financial management, control and
governance processes.
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The work plan is designed to promote better practice and identify potential risks that
could impede the department’s achievement of successful outcomes and portfolio
responsibilities.
Internal Audit monitored the implementation of its recommendations and reported
progress to the Audit Committee. In addition, Internal Audit monitored the progress of
implementation of Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) report recommendations.
Audit Committee
Established in accordance with the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997
(FMA Act), the Audit Committee met seven times during the reporting year. The
committee provided the Secretary with independent assurance of the appropriateness of
the department’s accountability and control framework. During the year, the committee
focused on the effective and efficient use of Commonwealth resources, management of
risks, financial management and compliance and program management. The committee
fulfilled its role in a number of ways, including by:
●
monitoring the department’s compliance with legislative and other obligations
relating to financial management—including the FMA Act and the Auditor-General
Act 1997
●
advising the Secretary on whether the annual financial statements represent a true
and fair view of the department’s financial management
●
approving, monitoring and reporting on the Annual Audit Work Plan
●
reviewing all ANAO activity undertaken in or associated with the portfolio,
incorporating Indigenous programs under the former Office of Evaluation and Audit
which transferred to the ANAO on 17 December 2009
●
monitoring the department’s compliance with legislation, regulations and
government policy
●
monitoring the department’s fraud and risk control policy and frameworks
●
improving the effectiveness of the internal audit function.
The members of the Audit Committee include two deputy secretaries (chair and deputy
chair), two group managers and two independent external members.
Fraud control
As required by the Commonwealth Fraud Control Guidelines 2002 and the FMA Act, the
department has in place a Fraud Control Plan.
Management of fraud risk is part of the department’s business planning cycle. The
business planning cycle underpins the development of fraud control initiatives, as do
fraud risks identified in the course of audits and program-specific compliance activity.
In 2009–10, the department also promoted fraud awareness, prevention and procedures
by:
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●
providing ethics and fraud awareness training to employees
●
developing a suite of fraud control guidance documents for all employees
●
providing advice to program and policy areas on fraud risk analysis and
management.
External scrutiny
Parliamentary committee inquiries
The department appeared before the Senate Standing Committee on Education,
Employment and Workplace Relations during the reporting period for Supplementary
Budget Estimates— 21 and 22 October 2009; Additional Budget Estimates—10 and 11
February 2010; and Budget Estimates—31 May to 3 June 2010.
In addition, the department appeared or made submissions to a number of parliamentary
committee inquiries, as shown in Table P3.10.
Table P3.10 Appearances before, and submissions to, parliamentary committee
inquiries
Committee
Inquiries, submissions and appearances
House of Representatives Standing Committee on
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs
Inquiry into the high levels of involvement of
Indigenous juveniles and young adults in the criminal
justice system
House of Representatives Standing Committee on
Economics
Inquiry into raising the level of productivity growth in
the Australian Economy
House of Representatives Standing Committee on
Education and Training
Inquiry into school libraries and teacher librarians in
Australian schools
Inquiry into combining school and work 'Adolescent
Overload?'
House of Representatives Standing Committee on
Employment and Workplace Relations
Inquiry into Regional Skills Relocation
House of Representatives Standing Committee on
Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and
Local Government
Inquiry into the impact of the global financial crisis on
regional Australia
House of Representatives Standing Committee on
Innovation, Science and Industry
Inquiry into Australia's international research
collaborations
House of Representatives Standing Committee on
Petitions
Petition on changes to Youth Allowance
House of Representatives Standing Committee on
Family, Community, Housing and Youth
Inquiry into Homelessness Legislation, Housing the
Homeless
Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence
and Trade
Inquiry into Australia's relationships with the countries
of Africa
Parliamentary Joint Standing Committee on Migration
Inquiry into migration treatment of disability
Parliament of New South Wales Legislative Council
Inquiry into the provision of education to students with
a disability or special needs
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Committee
Inquiries, submissions and appearances
Senate Standing Committee on Community Affairs
Paid Parental Leave Bill 2010
Senate Standing Committee on Environment,
Communications and the Arts
Inquiry into the Energy Efficient Homes Package
Senate Standing Committee on Rural and Regional
Affairs and Transport
Inquiry into the Social Security and Other Legislation
Amendment (Income Support for Students) Bill 2009
Inquiry into Rural and Regional Access to Secondary
and Tertiary Education Opportunities
Senate Standing Committee on Education, Employment Higher Education Support Amendment (2009 Budget
and Workplace Relations
Measures) Bill 2009
Building and Construction Industry Improvement
Amendment (Transition to Fair Work) Bill 2009
Education Services for Overseas Students Amendment
(Re-registration of Providers and Other Measures) Bill
2009
Education Services for Overseas Students Legislation
Amendment Bill 2010
Fair Work Amendment (State Referrals and Other
Measures) Bill 2009
Occupational Health and Safety and Other Legislation
Amendment Bill 2009
Family Assistance Legislation Amendment (Child Care
Budget Measures) Bill 2010
Primary Schools for the 21st Century program
Inquiry into the provision of child care
Inquiry into pay equity and associated issues related to
increasing female participation in the workforce
Inquiry into the Welfare of International Students
On 5 May 2010, the Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit (JCPAA) tabled the
Auditor-General’s Audit Report No. 33, Building the Education Revolution: Primary
Schools for the 21st Century. The department appeared before the JCPAA on 21 June
2010.
In 2009–10, the JCPAA tabled one report that made recommendations relevant to the
department’s operations: Report No. 415: Review of Auditor-General’s Reports tabled
between September 2008 and January 2009. The committee’s report considered the
following ANAO reports:
●
Audit Report No.4 2008–09, The Business Partnership Agreement between DEEWR
and Centrelink
●
Audit Report No.7 2008–09, Centrelink’s Tip-off System
●
Audit Report No.11 2008–09, Disability Employment Services
●
Audit Report No.12 2008–09, Active After-school Communities Program
●
Audit Report No.17 2008–09, Administration of Job Network Outcome Payments.
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In 2009–10, the department appeared before the JCPAA on two occasions in relation to:
●
role of the Auditor-General in scrutinising government advertising campaigns
●
ANAO Audit Report No.33 2009–10, Building the Education Revolution—Primary
Schools for the 21st Century.
Significant judicial decisions
There is nothing to report for 2009–10.
Significant Administrative Tribunal decisions
There is nothing to report for 2009–10.
Reports on the operations of the department by the
Commonwealth Ombudsman
There is nothing to report for 2009–10.
Reports by the Auditor-General
During the reporting period, the ANAO published two reports related to the department’s
operations:
●
Audit Report No.12 2009–10, Administration of Youth Allowance
●
Audit Report No.33 2009–10, Building the Education Revolution—Primary Schools
for the 21st Century.
The department was also involved in the following four cross-portfolio performance
reviews conducted by the ANAO:
●
Audit Report No.2 2009–10, Campaign Advertising Review 2008–09
●
Audit Report No.6 2009–10, Confidentiality in Government Contracts – Senate Order
for Departmental and Agency Contracts (Calendar Year 2008 Compliance)
●
Audit Report No.40 2009–10, Application of the Core APS Values and Codes of
Conduct to Australian Government Service Providers
●
Audit Report No.41 2009–10, Effective Cross-Agency Agreements.
Details of these reports can be found on the Australian National Audit Office website
www.anao.gov.au
Grant programs
Information on grants awarded by the department during the period 1 July 2009 to 30
June 2010 is available on its website www.deewr.gov.au/Department/Pages/Grants.aspx
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Financial management
Financial performance
The department reported an operating deficit for 2009–10 of $34.1 million. The deficit
was higher than the break-even operating result forecast in the 2010–11 Portfolio Budget
Statements. The operating result reflects the impact of several factors including:
●
the absorption of costs associated with several initiatives including the
implementation of Disability Employment Services, overseas student engagement
and support and the Building the Education Revolution Taskforce
●
higher costs for insolvency practitioners under the General Employee Entitlements
and Redundancy Scheme, demand for which increased dramatically following the
global recession
●
an increase in the number of legislated Federal Safety audits
●
expenses associated with the actuarial revaluation of employee entitlements.
The department’s full departmental and administered results are shown in the audited
financial statements at Part 5 of this report.
Purchasing
The department’s procurement policies and practices are consistent with all relevant
Commonwealth laws, the Commonwealth Financial Framework (including the
Commonwealth Procurement Guidelines) and other relevant policies. The Legal,
Investigation and Procurement Group provide specialist legal and probity advice to all
areas of the department engaged in procurement. The department uses AusTender to
publish its procurement activities and plans. As a result, the department’s procurement
activities are readily communicated and accessible to all business enterprises.
Consultancies
During 2009–10, 153 new consultancies were entered into, involving total actual
expenditure of $16 964 476. In addition, 67 ongoing consultancy contracts were active
during 2009–10, involving total actual expenditure of $10 628 469.
Annual reports contain information about actual expenditure on contracts for
consultancies. Information on the value of contracts and consultancies is available on the
AusTender website www.tenders.gov.au
Advertising
During 2009–10, the department conducted the Job Services Australia campaign. Further
information on this advertising campaign is available in the reports on Australian
Government advertising that are prepared by the Department of Finance and
Deregulation. Those reports are available at www.finance.gov.au/advertising/index.html.
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Exempt contracts
No contracts in excess of $10 000 (inclusive of GST) or standing offers were exempted by
the Secretary from being published on AusTender during the reporting year.
Asset management
The department’s asset management policies and procedures emphasise whole-of-life
asset management. The department undertook a number of processes in the reporting
year providing assurance as to the validity and valuation of the assets held, these
included:
●
a stocktake to confirm the location of its assets
●
an assessment of impairment in accordance with AASB 136 Impairment of Assets
ensuring that the department only carries assets at a value above the recoverable
amount
●
a fair value assessment to ensure that the assets are recorded at their appropriate
value in accordance with Accounting Standards.
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Clockwise from top left:
1.
In August 2009, the Hon Kate Ellis MP, Minister for Early Childhood Education, Child
Care and Youth, announced an expansion to the Home Interaction Program for
Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY), providing an additional 14 support centres for the
delivery of home-based parenting and early childhood enrichment programs.
2.
In December 2009 the Hon Jason Clare MP, Parliamentary Secretary for
Employment met with the new National Green Jobs Corps providers at their
inaugural forum. Minister Clare highlighted the need to provide training and
employment opportunities to young people and emphasised the importance of
linking with other DEEWR initiatives such as the Local Employment Coordinators.
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3.
Former Deputy Prime Minister the Hon Julia Gillard MP and Secretary Lisa Paul met
the Australian Education International India team in August 2009 The India trip
aimed to help strengthen the Australian Government’s relationship with India and
promote Australia’s high-quality education system.
4.
DEEWR’s Queensland state office was recognised in October 2009 at the Australian
Government Leadership Network Queensland Excellence Awards for their work on
‘Closing the Gap’ in Indigenous Communities in Queensland.
5.
The Hon Julia Gillard MP, former Minister for Education, with Secretary Lisa Paul,
attended the National Conversation with Principals in November 2009.
6.
The Leadership Program for State Network staff held a workshop in Canberra in
March 2010. DEEWR Secretary Lisa Paul is pictured here with facilitators Trish
Bergin and John Robinson. Lisa spoke about her leadership approach, the challenges
she faced as Secretary and her strong commitment to the Leadership Program.
7.
The Hon Julia Gillard MP, former Deputy Prime Minister, visited DEEWR’s national
office in August 2009. Minister Gillard praised the entire DEEWR team, saying that
on her visits across the country she had received strong feedback from the
community about the positive and long-lasting contribution of the department’s
work.
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Clockwise from top:
1.
In October 2009, former Prime Minister the Hon Kevin Rudd MP and the Hon Kate
Ellis MP, Minister for Early Childhood Education, Child Care and Youth, launched a
nationwide consultation process to talk with young people about the National
Strategy for Young Australians. Minister Ellis is pictured here with students at
Lyneham High School in Canberra.
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2.
In October 2009, Senator the Hon Ursula Stephens, Parliamentary Secretary for
Social Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector met with a parliamentary delegation from
the Kingdom of Bhutan to discuss the Australian system of vocational education and
training and expanding opportunities for Australian volunteers in Bhutan.
3.
In August 2009 the Hon Julia Gillard MP, former Minister for Education, officially
launched National Literacy and Numeracy Week at Wiley Park Public School in
Sydney.
4.
Implementation of the DEEWR-led Child Care Management System project was
scrutinised through a Department of Finance and Deregulation Gateway Review, and
was the first in the Commonwealth to successfully complete the final review stage.
In December 2009, Deputy Secretary and former Director of the Office of Early
Childhood Education and Child Care Michael Manthorpe received the final review
report from John McDonald, Gateway Review team leader.
5.
The DEEWR Dragons paddled their way into fourth place in the finals of the Dragons
Abreast Corporate Dragon Boat Challenge on Lake Burley Griffin in October 2009.
The regatta raised more than $30 000 for breast cancer research and support
services.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Part 4 - Appendixes
Appendix 1 - Commonwealth Disability Strategy
The Commonwealth Disability Strategy requires government departments to provide
performance data against four core performance roles: policy adviser, regulator,
purchaser and provider. As an employer, the department provides statistical reports
through the Australian Public Service Commission’s State of the Service report survey.
DEEWR is responsible for key aspects of the government’s social inclusion agenda, and
the department’s Disability Employment Plan sets out its commitment to be a leader in
the employment of people with disability in the APS. The plan can be found on the
department’s website at
www.deewr.gov.au/Department/DEEWRJobs/Pages/PeopleWDisability.aspx
DEEWR’s Secretary, Lisa Paul launched the department’s Disability Employment Plan and
established the Disability Employment Committee in November 2009. The committee is
guided by the following priorities:
●
improved delivery of, and ongoing support for, assistive technology
●
establishment of an employee network
●
identification and remedy of any recruitment barriers to people with disability
●
identification of strategies to improve disability confidence across DEEWR.
A number of practical initiatives have been put in place to progress these priorities,
including:
●
promotion of International Day of People with Disability across DEEWR, including an
event hosted by the Disability Champion
●
establishment of a working group, comprising committee members, interested
employees and representatives from key areas across the department, to focus on
practical solutions to improving the delivery of assistive technology and support for
its users
●
participation in the Stepping Into program—an ongoing Australian Network on
Disability program that aims to assist tertiary students and recent graduates with
disability enter their chosen profession
●
targeted recruitment efforts to attract people with disability as part of the 2011
Graduate Program, including advertising through the Australian Network on
Disability and Vision Australia.
Policy adviser role
Performance indicator 1
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New or revised programs/policies assess impact on the lives of people with disability prior
to decision.
The department administers a range of programs that impact on people with disability
and undertakes assessments and stakeholder consultations to ensure that positive
outcomes are achieved. Examples of this include:
Inclusion and Professional Support Program—the program provides support to child care
services to promote and maintain high-quality care for all children, including children with
disability, in eligible child care services. This goal is achieved by helping educators to
develop their skills and increasing the capacity of child care services through the
provision of professional development, advice and inclusion support.
After significant consultation with the sector, revised program guidelines were released in
July 2009. Those guidelines amended the accessibility provisions for the Inclusion
Support Subsidy so that allied health providers in rural and remote areas with reduced
numbers of medical practitioners could verify the status of people seeking the subsidy,
and so that the Centrelink Health Care Card with the ‘child with disability’ code would be
allowable in some circumstances.
National Disability Strategy—Australian and state governments have agreed to work
together on the establishment of the strategy, which will provide a whole of government,
whole of life approach that will address both the performance of the disability service
system and, importantly, mainstream systems for people with disability, their families
and carers. DEEWR is assisting FaHCSIA, which has the lead in the development of the
strategy.
A formal public consultation process, and the National People with Disabilities and Carer
Council, when it is established, will continue to provide expert advice to government on
the strategy’s development and implementation.
Review of Disability Standards for Education 2005—formulated under the Disability
Discrimination Act 1992, the standards set out the obligations of all education providers
under the Act in five key areas: enrolment; participation; curriculum development,
accreditation and delivery; student support services; and harassment and victimisation.
The standards, accessible at the DEEWR website, are reviewed every five years. In 2009–
10, DEEWR began planning for the next review in consultation with the AttorneyGeneral’s Department and the Australian Human Rights Commission. The review, which
will include consultation with stakeholders and the Australian public, will cover the
efficiency and effectiveness of the standards in achieving their objectives.
Performance indicator 2
People with disability are included in consultations about new or revised policy/program
proposals.
Consultation with stakeholders and people with disability occurs when DEEWR is
developing or revising policy or program proposals. Examples of this include:
National Mental Health and Disability Employment Strategy—the department worked with
FaHCSIA to develop the National Mental Health and Disability Employment Strategy. The
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strategy, developed and released in September 2009 after an extended consultation
process, sets out a number of priority actions to assist people with disability, including
mental illness, into work. It recognises the importance of education and training as a
pathway to sustainable employment, and the role of employers in increasing employment
opportunities for people with disability.
National Quality Agenda for Early Childhood Education and Care—a Consultation
Regulation Impact Statement was released in July 2009 as part of the consultation
process for the COAG’s National Quality Agenda for Early Childhood Education and Care.
The statement sought public and industry comment on improved staff-to-child ratios and
qualification requirements, a new integrated approach to regulation, and a quality ratings
system to give parents information about the services available for their children.
Feedback from the public consultations, held between 3 July and 31 August 2009, was
taken into account in developing the final proposals considered by COAG. The focus
group discussions involved mainstream families and services, Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander families and services, and immigrant and refugee families. At least four of these
families had children with special needs.
Further consultation with the sector and families is planned during development of the
National Quality Agenda, leading up to its implementation in January 2012.
Australian Curriculum from Kindergarten to Year 12—the curriculum is being developed
by the Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) to meet the
needs of all students and provide flexibility for teachers to take into account the different
rates at which students develop so that they can cater for differences in students’
abilities.
Advisory panels with a focus on equity and diversity, including students with special
needs and stages of schooling, are providing input on how ACARA can best meet the
needs of students with disability. There will be further discussion on achievement
standards and assessment for students with disability throughout 2010.
Performance indicator 3
Public announcements of new, revised or proposed policy/program initiatives are
available in accessible formats for people with disability in a timely manner.
Departmental information is presented online in HTML, which is fully accessible using a
screen reader. Publications are available in PDF and RTF—the RTF being screen reader
friendly.
The DEEWR website conforms to an ‘A’ level rating against the Web Content Accessibility
Guidelines 2.0. This is the current minimum standard rating for Australian Government
websites.
Where possible, workshops and associated materials are provided in formats that are
accessible to all. This includes the provision of sign interpreters at workshops, captions
for video presentations and website material that is compatible with alternative format
technology.
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The JobAccess service offers a telephone hotline that also has a telephone typewriter
(TTY) facility. The JobAccess website publishes information on new or revised policy or
program initiatives relating to the employment of people with disability and adheres to
accessibility guidelines to ensure all documents and media files on the site are available
in accessible formats.
Regulator role
Performance indicator 1
Publicly available information on regulations and quasi-regulations is available in
accessible formats for people with disability.
Information on the department’s programs and associated regulations is available in
accessible formats on the department’s website. This includes the Disability Employment
Services program and the Employment Services Code of Practice.
Performance indicator 2
Publicly available regulatory compliance reporting is available in accessible formats for
people with disability.
Publicly available information on the department’s compliance with regulatory
requirements and quality assurance systems, including the Disability Employment
Services Performance Framework, is provided in accessible formats on the department’s
website.
Information on the relative performance of Disability Employment Services providers is
made available through the Disability Employment Services Star Ratings, published sixmonthly on the DEEWR and Australian JobSearch www.jobsearch.gov.au websites.
Purchaser role
Performance indicator 1
Publicly available information on agreed purchasing specifications is available in
accessible formats for people with disability.
The department’s tenders are advertised in various media, including AusTender,
newspapers and the DEEWR website. Although the tender documents are usually PDFs,
they can be made available in other formats on request through the contact officer for
each tender.
Performance indicator 2
Processes for purchasing goods or services with a direct impact on the lives of people
with disability are developed in consultation with people with disability.
The department’s procurement procedures require the department to comply with the
Commonwealth Procurement Guidelines and related legislation, which includes the
Disability Discrimination Act 1992. The department consults with appropriate
stakeholders if it considers the procurement may impact on people with disability.
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Performance indicator 3
Purchasing specifications and contract requirements for the purchase of goods and
services are consistent with the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.
Disability Employment Services providers are contracted by the department to help
people with disability obtain and retain employment. These providers are required to
meet the provisions of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992. Providers are also required
to achieve and maintain quality assurance certification under the Disability Services
Standards and are independently audited against the 12 standards.
The department’s template contracts for the purchase of goods and services require
compliance with Commonwealth laws, including the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.
The request for tender template states that successful tenderers will be subject to the
same requirement.
Performance indicator 4
Publicly available performance reporting against the purchase contract specifications
requested in accessible formats for people with disability is provided.
In 2009–10, the department provided publicly available reports on performance against
the contract purchasing specification in accessible formats in response to all requests.
Job seekers are informed of the relative performance of Disability Employment Services
providers through the publication of the Disability Employment Services Star Ratings.
These ratings will continue to be published six-monthly on the DEEWR and Australian
JobSearch websites. All publicly available information is provided in accessible formats,
including online formats.
Performance indicator 5
Complaints/grievance mechanisms, including access to external mechanisms, are in place
to address concerns raised about provider’s performance.
Complaints and grievances are handled in accordance with the department’s policy, and
advice is available from external complaint-handling agencies such as the Commonwealth
Ombudsman. Specific examples of departmental programs that include grievance or
complaint mechanisms are:
Employment Services Code of Practice—providers are contractually bound to provide
services according to the standards set out in the Employment Services Code of Practice.
The code, which has been designed to apply to all employment services, focusing
attention on the way services are provided to achieve the best outcomes for clients,
details a series of principles and commitments to high-quality service delivery.
Job seekers can expect to receive the range of services that are set out in the relevant
service guarantee, available on the department’s website in accessible formats.
Disability Employment Services complaints process—Disability Employment Services
providers are affected by the provisions of the Disability Services Standards, against
which they must be certified.
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Standard 7 requires that providers have an accessible, effective internal complainthandling mechanism for clients.
The Employment Services Complaints, Compliments and Suggestions fact sheet is
available on the department’s website
www.deewr.gov.au/Employment/Programs/DES/Pages/Resources.aspx and explains the
complaints process.
Clients can make use of the Complaints Resolution and Referral Service, an independent
service funded by the government, to help clients using specialist disability services to
raise and seek resolution of complaints. Clients of Disability Employment Services can
contact the Customer Service Line on freecall 1800 805 260 or directly on freecall 1800
880 052. The service is also able to advise providers on developing or improving their
internal complaint-handling procedures.
Provider role
Performance indicator 1
Providers have established mechanisms for quality improvement and assurance.
The Child Care Services Handbook provides information on the Inclusion and Professional
Support Program, which supports services to assist children with additional needs,
including those with disability. The handbook is provided to all child care service
providers and is also available in accessible formats on the department’s website.
The National Quality Strategy for Disability Employment and Rehabilitation Services
Providers requires Disability Employment Services providers to be certified against the
Disability Services Standards of the Disability Services Act 1986.
Performance indicator 2
Providers have an established service charter that specifies the roles of the provider and
consumer and service standards that address accessibility for people with disability.
The DEEWR Service Charter makes clear the commitment and ways in which DEEWR
assists people with disability to access services and information.
From 1 July 2006, the Employment and Related Services Code of Practice and the
relevant service guarantee bound all employment services providers holding contracts
with the department. The code of practice describes how providers must deliver services
to clients.
The Disability Employment Services service guarantee specifies the types of services that
clients can expect to receive.
Performance indicator 3
Complaints/grievance mechanisms, including access to external mechanisms, are in place
to address concerns raised about performance.
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DEEWR’s Service Charter requests feedback and provides information on mechanisms
through which feedback can be submitted. This includes information on how people with
disability can provide feedback and on external avenues for providing feedback.
Job seekers registered with Disability Employment Services can contact the Complaints
Resolution and Referral Service, an independent service funded by the government to
help job seekers using specialist disability services to raise and seek resolution of
complaints.
Appendix 2 - Ecologically sustainable development and
environmental performance reporting
Section 516A of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
requires Commonwealth organisations to report on their environmental performance and
their contribution to ecologically sustainable development.
Program activities incorporating ecologically sustainable
development principles
Early childhood education and child care
In December 2009, the Council of Australian Governments signed a landmark agreement
to drive higher quality early childhood education and care. The department is working
with state and territory governments to implement the new National Quality Standard for
Early Childhood Education and Care and School Age Care, which includes a requirement
that each service ‘takes an active role in caring for its environment and contributes to a
sustainable future’.
School education
The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) was established
as an independent statutory authority by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and
Reporting Authority Act 2008.
ACARA’s work in developing the Australian curriculum is guided by the 2008 Melbourne
Declaration on Educational Goals for Young Australians. The declaration includes a
commitment to support young Australians to work for the common good, in particular by
sustaining and improving natural environments.
ACARA is integrating a focus on environmental sustainability across the Australian
curriculum by making ‘a commitment to sustainable patterns of living’ a cross-curriculum
priority, represented in ways appropriate to individual learning areas. For example, the
curriculum in science aims to increase students’ awareness of contemporary
environmental issues such as water management and climate change. The science
curriculum also aims to enable students to make responsible, ethical and informed
decisions concerning the environment through the application of scientific understanding.
The department administers the Building the Education Revolution (BER) program, part
of the Nation Building—Economic Stimulus Plan developed by the Australian Government
in response to the global financial crisis.
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Construction or refurbishment projects funded under the Primary Schools for the 21st
Century and Science and Language Centres for 21st Century Secondary Schools elements
of BER must reflect sustainability principles in their building design and construction. This
might include, for example, use of insulation, energy-efficient lighting, solar hot water,
glazing, heating and cooling, or water tanks.
Education authorities identified sustainability measures in the BER project application
phase and all applications incorporated sustainable building principles. A report on the
implementation of the sustainability measures is part of the acquittal process undertaken
once an approved project has been completed.
Table A2.1 shows how widely particular sustainability measures were included in projects
approved under BER.
Table A2.1 Sustainability measures included in building design and construction
by projects funded under the Building the Education Revolution
program
Sustainability measure
Primary Schools for the 21st
Century
Science and Language Centres
Number of
projects
Proportion of
total projects
Number of
projects
Proportion of
total projects
Building insulation
9786
93%
493
92%
Energy-efficient glazing
5199
49%
323
60%
Energy-efficient lighting
8701
82%
522
97%
Other
2848
27%
144
27%
697
7%
63
12%
Shading
6310
60%
273
51%
Solar panel
2359
22%
148
28%
Water tanks
6067
57%
346
64%
Recycled/grey water
Note: The above figures are based on approved projects. A project may include more than one sustainability
measure.
This table shows the number of sustainability measures included in the design and
construction of primary schools for the 21st century and science and language centres.
The most commonplace sustainability measures were building insulation, energy-efficient
lighting, and shading.
Higher education
The Education Investment Fund (EIF) supports significant infrastructure projects in
higher education, research and vocational education and training (VET) institutions, to
build a modern, productive Australian economy prepared to meet the challenges of the
future.
The EIF funding rounds undertaken in 2009–10 included a special Sustainability Round
focused on transforming tertiary campuses and research institutions into twenty-first
century environments and advancing teaching and research in the areas of climate
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change and sustainability. EIF projects may also act as testing and demonstration sites
for new and emerging design and technology strategies.
The five successful projects in the Sustainability Round included one university project
and one VET project:
●
Sir Samuel Griffith Centre at Griffith University, Brisbane, $21.05 million—the centre
will be an innovative teaching and research building, with a 6 Green Star rating.
Integrating business, engineering and environmental science disciplines around a
sustainability theme, the centre will build critical capacity in climate change
adaptation research. The infrastructure will include a solar power-hydrogen storage
energy management system at demonstration scale.
●
Central Tech Green Skills Training Centre at Central TAFE, Perth, $12 million—the
training centre will boost capacity in the VET sector in Western Australia by
providing high-level green skills training for engineers, builders, plumbers, painters
and environmental, water and renewable energy technicians and bio-technicians.
The facility itself will achieve significant environmental savings through reduced
carbon emissions and water use during its operation.
In addition, $400 million in EIF funding was allocated to providing research infrastructure
for the Clean Energy Initiative, which complements the Carbon Pollution Reduction
Scheme and Renewable Energy Target by supporting the research, development and
demonstration of low-emission energy technologies, including industrial scale carbon
capture and storage and solar energy.
Vocational education and training
The department contributes to whole of government forums such as the National
Education for Sustainability Network and the Energy Efficiency Skills Committee chaired
by the Department of Resources, Energy and Tourism; is a member of the National
Quality Council; and represents the Australian Government on the Water Industry Skills
Taskforce. These groups share an interest in building the capacity of Australia’s education
and training sector to deliver green skills: the knowledge, skills and training required by
the workforce to meet the demands of a sustainable, low-carbon economy.
In December 2009 COAG endorsed the Green Skills Agreement, which was developed by
the Australian Government and state and territory governments with input from business,
industry, the training sector and universities. The primary objectives of the agreement
are to:
●
develop national standards in skills for sustainability, within the requirements of the
national regulatory framework
●
equip VET practitioners to provide effective training and facilitation in skills for
sustainability
●
review and revise training packages to incorporate skills for sustainability
●
implement strategies to re-skill vulnerable workers in the transition to a low-carbon
economy.
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The Green Skills Agreement Implementation Group was convened in early 2010. The
department chairs the group, which includes representatives from each state and
territory government, universities, private and public VET providers, community
education providers, unions and employer groups. In June 2010, the group presented a
Green Skills Agreement Implementation Plan to the Ministerial Council on Tertiary
Education and Employment.
The group is also working to upgrade the skills of the VET workforce. The Innovation and
Business Skills Australia Industry Skills Council revised the Certificate IV in Training and
Assessment, to assist the Australian VET sector to deliver and assess training for
sustainability. In addition, a new unit of competency, ‘Analyse and apply sustainability
skills into learning programs’, was added to the elective pool for the Diploma of Training
and Assessment. This unit was funded by the department and forms the Sustainable
Practice Skill Set in the Training and Assessment Training Package, which is the basis of
skill development for VET practitioners.
The department is building an evidence base that will inform the implementation of the
Green Skills Agreement. Six projects were undertaken in the first phase of research,
including the Skills for a Sustainable Future employer survey that was conducted in
December 2009. The survey collected responses from 1932 businesses across eight
industries deemed to be vulnerable to the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon
economy. Responses indicated that, although businesses are concerned about rising
energy and water costs, many are keen to become more sustainable by saving water,
energy, paper, and fuel; by recycling; and by implementing better waste disposal and
site management practices.
The second phase of research, which began in June 2010, includes the Murdi Paaki Green
Skills Research project. This project will identify current and future investments in the
emerging green economy in the Murdi Paaki region of New South Wales, and assess the
capacity of local Indigenous communities to take advantage of employment and training
opportunities that arise as a result.
Training providers who applied for funding in 2009–10 through the Training
Infrastructure Investment for Tomorrow element of the Teaching and Learning Capital
Fund for Vocational Education and Training were required to demonstrate the extent to
which their proposed projects would address emerging green skills requirements.
Applicants were asked to consider:
●
what benefit their project would deliver to the national training system
●
whether their project would help to re-orient existing skills to meet the challenges of
businesses focused on sustainable development, including demand for new green
skills
●
offering green skills training to prepare workers for
-
new jobs, such as manufacturing of pollution control devices added to existing
production equipment
-
job substitution, for example shifting from fossil fuels to renewable energies
-
transformation or ‘greening’ of existing jobs.
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The Skills for the Carbon Challenge initiative supports the Skills for Sustainability—
Educational Institution Award, part of the Australian Training Awards. The Northern
Sydney Institute became the inaugural Skills for Sustainability Award winner in
November 2009. The institute was recognised for its work in developing effective
partnerships to build sustainable work skills that will support Australia’s transition to a
low-carbon economy.
The department is providing a number of grants to universities to fund projects on the
provision of skills for sustainability in the higher education sector. These include:
●
work by the Australian Learning and Teaching Council and the University of Western
Sydney to develop a comprehensive web-based resource detailing higher education
courses that include sustainability content, examples of effective professional
development, models of effective practice in the delivery of sustainability programs
and linkages to international initiatives and resources
●
work by the Australian Research Institute in Education for Sustainability to develop
teaching units in energy efficiency and renewable energy, and in the application of
Indigenous concepts of ‘country’ to sustainability.
The department’s environmental performance
The department’s Environment Subcommittee, which reports directly to the
Accommodation Committee, ensures that all environmental activities are integrated into
DEEWR’s long-term accommodation strategy and departmental objectives. By managing
targets and action plans, the committee aims to reduce the department’s environmental
impact. The committee provides quarterly reports to DEEWR Executive on the
performance of the department’s property portfolio, with a particular focus on energy use
and waste management.
The committee oversees the development and maintenance of an AS/NZS ISO 14001compliant Environmental Management System (EMS), advocates environmental policies
within the department and works with other committees to ensure that environmental
impacts are considered in decision-making processes. The committee manages
applications within the department for non-standard ICT equipment, to ensure that the
energy-saving potential of new equipment is fully realised.
The department’s EMS is currently being certified to AS/NZS ISO 14001 at one site in
Canberra. Once completed, the certification will be extended to other Canberra sites.
Buildings
The department continued to rationalise its property portfolio into fewer, more efficient
buildings, reducing the number of tenancies from 61 in 2008–09 to 54 in 2009–10.
The department achieved practical completion of its new headquarters building at 50
Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra. The building will be occupied from July 2010, housing
about 45 per cent of the department’s Canberra-based staff.
The base design of the new building achieved a 6 Green Star rating from the Green
Building Council of Australia; the department has commenced work on a submission
seeking Green Star ratings for the completed building and fit-out. Occupation of the new,
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energy-efficient building will improve the department’s overall energy performance, and
allow for further rationalisation of the department’s property portfolio as leases on older
buildings expire.
The department’s tenancy at 17 Moore Street, Canberra, completed its first year of
operations under the department’s first Green Lease Schedule and is on track to achieve
the necessary 4.5 star NABERS rating. The department is in discussion with the
managers of the older buildings it leases in Canberra to consider the feasibility of energysaving initiatives under existing leases.
The department uses the whole of government energy contract in the Australian Capital
Territory, which sources 10 per cent accredited GreenPower. Arrangements are being put
in place to purchase 10 per cent accredited GreenPower for all tenancies outside the
Australian Capital Territory.
The department’s new Northern Territory headquarters at 39–41 Woods Street, Darwin,
is managed under a Green Lease Schedule. The department has submitted an application
to the Green Building Council of Australia seeking a Green Star rating of the tenancy.
If these walls could breathe ...
The department’s new Canberra headquarters at 50 Marcus Clarke Street feature a
number of bio-filtration walls, or ‘living walls’, covered with specially selected plants that
act as a natural filter for indoor air.
The plants’ roots are placed in a layer of matting held between two layers of a synthetic
porous structure that contains perforated ducts through which contaminated office air is
drawn. Micro-organisms living in the plants’ root systems and leaves clean the air of
volatile organic compounds—chemicals that are a major contributor to poor indoor air
quality. Bio-filtration walls are designed to remove a large number of such compounds,
improving air quality and staff comfort.
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Information and communications technology
The 2008 Review of the Australian Government’s Use of Information and Communications
Technology requires all government departments to significantly reduce their ICT running
costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
An interdepartmental committee produced the whole of government ICT Sustainability
Plan, mandating recommendations, actions, reporting obligations and targets for the
environmental performance of government agencies’ ICT operations. The targets involve
energy consumption, resource consumption, sustainable procurement and e-waste.
The ICT Sustainability Plan required each government agency to produce an ICT Energy
Plan. The department’s plan contains targets for ICT equipment and energy reduction and
initiatives from the Australian Government Information Management Office, which aligns
the department’s plan with the whole of government plan. In terms of energy savings,
the following measures are being implemented:
●
The department’s Desktop 2010 project is rolling out more efficient personal
computers that are rated to the Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool
gold standard. The new computers are automatically put into ‘sleep’ mode overnight
and after more than 30 minutes of inactivity during the day. A significant reduction
in the department’s ratio of personal computers to staff members is being achieved,
and laptop numbers are being reduced.
●
The department is moving to energy-efficient 24 inch monitors that can reduce
energy use by 60 per cent in comparison with current monitors.
●
New multifunction devices (MFDs) are being deployed to greatly reduce the numbers
of printers, fax machines and scanners in use in the department. The MFDs are set
to print on demand and use duplex printing by default to substantially reduce paper
use.
●
The department’s mid-range servers are being virtualised. This means that software
is used to divide one physical server into multiple isolated virtual server instances.
Around 700 virtual servers have been created, greatly reducing the need for
physical server hardware and saving at least 20 per cent of previous energy use.
●
The department’s data centres will undergo independent energy assessments every
year. A project is underway to relocate the data centre in Lyneham, Canberra, to
more energy-efficient premises at Dickson, Canberra.
Water
The department has achieved the maximum possible implementation of water-saving
systems in existing national office buildings, with an overall 80 per cent implementation
of available water-saving technologies.
The new building at 50 Marcus Clarke Street incorporates the best available water-saving
systems, including low-flow sensor taps, grey water recycling for flushing toilets,
waterless urinals and rainwater retention for use in cooling towers.
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The department’s tenancies at 17 Moore Street and 50 Marcus Clarke Street allow floorbyfloor metering of water use. Use patterns will be mapped in 2010–11 to enable
identification of opportunities for water savings and early detection and repair of water
leaks.
Vehicle fleet
The department operates a fleet of 119 pool vehicles, including 13 four-wheel drive
vehicles which are required for safety in departmental operations in remote areas. The
number of four-wheel drive vehicles has been reduced through careful fleet
rationalisation. The department’s target of 60 per cent of pool vehicles being rated in the
top half of the Green Vehicle Guide has been exceeded, with 69 per cent of vehicles
meeting this standard in 2009–10.
Air travel
Collectively, the department’s staff travelled approximately 28.9 million kilometres in
2009, generating 10 061 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions. This was a 20
per cent reduction in air travel compared to 2008, which exceeded the department’s
target of a 10 per cent reduction.
Paper use
Paper use data is monitored to track progress towards targets of a 30 per cent reduction
in total departmental paper use and standardised department-wide use of 100 per cent
recycled A4 paper stock.
Total paper use was reduced by approximately 25 per cent in 2009–10; this was 5 per
cent short of the target (a 30 per cent reduction compared to the previous year).
However, the proportion of recycled paper within that total was higher, by approximately
20 per cent, than in the previous year.
Standardised use of 80 per cent recycled Australian-made A4 paper and 10 per cent
recycled Australian-made A3 paper is being established throughout the department. The
department continues to monitor the commercial availability of Australian-made paper
with a higher recycled content and will change to a higher percentage recycled paper if it
becomes available.
Recycled paper is used for departmental publications whenever possible.
Waste management
The department is establishing a standardised waste management system, beginning at
50 Marcus Clarke Street and being progressively adapted for other tenancies. The system
is the result of research, professional advice and staff consultation and is designed to
minimise the amount of waste going to landfill and help the department to achieve its
target of 80 per cent effective recycling.
Regular waste auditing is conducted at selected sites and, in 2009–10, indicated an
average effective recycling rate of 67 per cent—an acceptable rate in comparison with
other Australian organisations, but still short of the department’s target of 80 per cent.
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Organic recycling has been successfully trialled at two major Canberra tenancies. Waste
auditing indicates the potential for organic recycling to reduce departmental waste going
to landfill by as much as 25 per cent. The new waste management system includes
organic recycling as a standard component, along with full recycling of paper, cardboard,
mobile phones and components, co-mingled materials (bottles, cans, plastic), toner
cartridges and, where possible, domestic batteries.
Appendix 3 - Freedom of information
This appendix has been prepared in accordance with section 8(1) of the Freedom of
Information Act 1982, which requires that each agency publish information about the
following:
●
the organisation and functions of the agency, including the decision-making and
other powers affecting members of the public that are involved in those functions
●
arrangements that exist for outside participation in policy formation or
administration of any enactment or scheme by the agency
●
categories of documents the agency possesses
●
how members of the public can gain access to documents held by the agency.
A reference to the Minister, unless otherwise stated, means the Hon Julia Gillard MP,
former Minister for Education, former Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations
and former Minister for Social Inclusion. A reference to the Secretary, unless otherwise
stated, means the Secretary of the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace
Relations.
Organisations and functions
Part 1 of this report provides information about the organisation and functions of the
department.
Decision-making powers that affect members of the public
The department makes decisions under the following legislation:
●
A New Tax System (Family Assistance) Act 1999—in relation to child care benefit,
child care rebate, child care services and registered carers
●
A New Tax System (Family Assistance) (Administration) Act 1999—in relation to
child care benefit, child care rebate, child care services and registered carers
●
A New Tax System (Family Assistance and Related Measures) Act 2000—in relation
to child care benefit, child care tax rebate, child care services and registered carers
●
Air Passenger Ticket Levy (Collection) Act 2001—in relation to the special
entitlements scheme for eligible employees of the Ansett group of companies
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●
Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority Act 2008—an Act to
establish the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority, and for
related purposes
●
Australian Technical Colleges (Flexibility in Achieving Australia’s Skills Needs) Act
2005—which grants financial assistance for establishing and operating Australian
Technical Colleges and for related purposes
●
Building and Construction Industry Improvement Act 2005—in relation to
accreditation under the Australian Government’s Occupational Health and Safety
Building and Construction Accreditation Scheme
●
Child Care Act 1972—in relation to historical capital funding for child care
●
Child Care Benefit (Eligibility of Child Care Services for Approval and Continued
Approval) Determination 2000—which sets out rules relating to the eligibility of child
care services to become, and remain, approved child care services for the purposes
of child care benefit
●
Child Care Support Legislation Amendment (Reform of the Child Support Scheme—
New Formula and Other Measures) Act 2006—in relation to child care benefit
●
Disability Services Act 1986—in relation to the provision of Disability Employment
Network, vocational rehabilitation services and Disability Employment Services
●
Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 and Education Services for
Overseas Students Regulations 2001—the Minister (or delegate) can make
decisions, in relation to
-
registration of approved providers of courses for overseas students on the
Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
-
suspension and cancellation of providers from the Commonwealth Register of
Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
-
imposition of conditions on a registered provider’s registration for one or more
courses in one or more states
-
establishment of the Education Services for Overseas Students Assurance Fund
and approved tuition assurance schemes
●
Family Assistance Legislation Amendment (Child Care Budget and Other Measures)
Act 2008—in relation to child care benefit, child care rebate, approved child care
services and debt recovery
●
Family Assistance Legislation Amendment (Child Care Management System and
Other Measures) Act 2007—in relation to the Child Care Management System
●
Freedom of Information Act 1982—to grant or refuse access to documents, to
amend or annotate documents, and in relation to fees and charges
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
Higher Education Funding Act 1988—the Minister has decision-making powers under
this Act, which makes provisions for grants of transitional financial assistance to
higher education institutions and other bodies for higher education purposes until
the end of 2007. The Secretary (or delegate) has powers to make decisions in
accordance with this Act in relation to remission of the whole or part of a debt
incurred under the Higher Education Contribution Scheme, Postgraduate Education
Loans Scheme, Bridging for Overseas Trained Professionals Loan Scheme and Open
Learning Deferred Payment Scheme. The Commissioner of Taxation has powers to
make decisions in accordance with this Act in relation to tax file numbers,
repayment of money lent by the Commonwealth to students and deferral of a
compulsory repayment of a Higher Education Loan Programme (HELP) debt
●
Higher Education Support Act 2003—in relation to the funding of higher education,
and related purposes and the administration of the VET FEE-HELP Assistance
Scheme. This Act primarily provides for the Commonwealth to give financial support
for higher education and VET through grants and other payments made largely to
higher education and VET providers, and through financial assistance to students
(usually in the form of loans). The Minister has decision-making powers to reduce or
require repayment of grants (including in relation to conditions under the Maritime
Legislation Amendment Act 2007). The Secretary (or delegate) has powers to make
decisions in accordance with this Act in relation to the rollover of funding grants,
advances of funding grants and HELP payments, the review of providers’ original
decisions on the re-crediting of Student Learning Entitlement and FEE-HELP balances
and payments, and the protection of personal information under the Act. The
Commissioner of Taxation has powers to make decisions in accordance with this Act
in relation to tax file numbers, repayment of moneys lent by the Commonwealth to
students and deferral of a compulsory repayment of a HELP debt
●
Migration Act 1958—under this Act, the Migration Regulations 1994 specify Trades
Recognition Australia (TRA), a business unit of the department, as a skills assessing
authority for tradespeople wishing to migrate to Australia under the Australian
Government’s migration program
●
Nation-building Funds Act 2008—relates to the Building Australia Fund, the
Education Investment Fund, the Health and Hospitals Fund and other purposes
●
National Workplace Relations Consultative Council Act 2002—provides, in the public
interest, a regular and organised means by which representatives of the government
of the Commonwealth, of employers and of employees, and, when the Minister
considers it appropriate, representatives of other persons, bodies and organisations
may consult together on workplace relations matters of national concern
●
Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988—the Minister has the discretion
under this Act to grant corporations eligibility to apply to the Safety, Rehabilitation
and Compensation Commission for a licence to self-insure under the Comcare
workers compensation scheme. The Minister also has the power to declare persons
to be employees of the Commonwealth for the purposes of this Act whilst engaging
in activities or performing acts at the request or direction of the Commonwealth, for
the benefit of the Commonwealth, or under a requirement made by or under a law
of the Commonwealth
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
Schools Assistance Act 2008—grants financial assistance to the states for 2009–
2012 for primary and secondary education and related purposes for nongovernment
schools. Funding for non-government schools under the Act includes: the Recurrent
Assistance program; the Capital Grants program; the Literacy, Numeracy and
Special Learning Needs Program; the Country Areas Program; the English as a
Second Language—New Arrivals Program; the Languages Program; Short Term
Emergency Assistance; and Establishment Assistance. The Minister and Secretary
have powers to make decisions under this Act, and may delegate these powers to
departmental officers
●
Schools Assistance (Learning Together—Achievement Through Choice and
Opportunity) Act 2004—which grants financial assistance to the states for 2005–
2008 for primary and secondary education and related purposes for both
government and non-government schools
●
Social Security Act 1991 and Social Security (Administration) Act 1999—in relation
to income support payments as well as participation requirements for Newstart
Allowance, Youth Allowance and Parenting Payment. The Minister and Secretary
have powers to make decisions under these Acts regarding Austudy, Youth
Allowance, and any other payment, allowance or supplement, including rent
assistance, insofar as it relates to students. The Secretary may delegate these
powers to departmental officers and to the CEO of Centrelink
●
Tradesmen’s Rights Regulation Act 1946—facilitates the recognition of tradespeople
in 49 metal and electrical trades
The department also makes decisions under the following administrative schemes:
●
Administrative Scheme for the Payment of Special Compensation for Injury in
Exceptional Circumstances—the Minister has the power to compensate certain
judges, Commonwealth employees, a person contracted to perform tasks for the
Commonwealth, and/or their spouses/ close relatives, who are injured as a result of
their connection with the Commonwealth
●
Administrative Scheme for the Purposes of Compensating Persons Present at British
Nuclear Test sites in Australia—the Minister has the power to compensate nonCommonwealth employees, pastoralists and Aboriginal persons affected by these
tests
●
Building the Education Revolution (BER) Program—the Minister for Education has the
power to approve funding for individual schools under the three elements of the BER
●
-
National School Pride
-
Primary Schools for the 21st Century
-
Science and Language Centres for 21st Century Secondary Schools
Community Support—delivers improved access to child care through support for the
establishment of new services and maintenance of services, especially in areas
where the market would otherwise fail to provide child care services
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●
Compensation for Detriment caused by Defective Administration Scheme—in
connection with compensation that might be payable to a claimant who has suffered
detriment as a result of defective administration by an Australian Government
agency
●
Early Learning and Care Centres—increases the availability of early learning and
child care options for families. The centres are, where possible, located on school,
TAFE, university grounds or other community land
●
Endeavour Awards—in relation to individuals who have applied for a scholarship.
Independent selection panels consider applicants based on merit and make
recommendations to the department for a final decision
●
General Employee Entitlements and Redundancy Scheme—provides assistance to
employees who have lost their job as a result of the bankruptcy or liquidation of
their employer and are owed certain entitlements
●
Inclusion and Professional Support—promotes and maintains high quality care and
inclusion for all children in eligible child care services, by increasing the capacity of
the service and the skill level of carers and staff through the provision of
professional development and inclusion support
●
Indigenous Employment Program—aims to increase Indigenous Australians’
employment outcomes and participation in economic activities, contributing to the
government’s commitment to halve the gap between Indigenous and nonIndigenous employment outcomes within a decade. Access to the program is
available through the assistance available through
-
pre-designed, ‘off-the-shelf’ products (Indigenous Wage Subsidy, Indigenous
Cadetship Scheme and CDEP Work Experience Subsidy and Indigenous Capital
Assistance Scheme)
-
directly negotiated tailored assistance, generally with employers or Indigenous
businesses
-
services provided to employers and Indigenous individuals, communities and
enterprises by organisations on the Employment Panel and the Economic
Development and Business Support Panel
●
International Student Exchange programs—in relation to funding applied for by
higher education providers for student exchange
●
Youth Engagement—the department administers programs and initiatives under the
Youth Engagement appropriation to support young Australians to transition to
independence and also to provide assistance to vulnerable young people. These
programs include the Australian Youth Forum, Transition to Independent Living
Allowance and Youth Development Support Program.
Arrangements for outside participation
Office of Early Childhood Education and Child Care
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Under the National Partnership Agreement on Early Childhood Education, the bilateral
agreements between the Commonwealth and state and territory governments include
governance arrangements in which the department and other stakeholders are invited to
participate.
The Indigenous Early Childhood Development Steering Committee comprises
representatives from the states and territories and is chaired by the Commonwealth. The
committee has oversight of the implementation of the National Partnership on Indigenous
Early Childhood Development. This includes specific responsibility for making
recommendations to the senior officials meeting representing Australian Government
central agencies and state and territory government agencies, in relation to the national
partnership’s three elements:
●
Element One: Integration of Early Childhood Services through Children and Family
Centres
●
Element Two: Increased Access to Antenatal Care, Pre-Pregnancy and Teenage
Sexual and Reproductive Health
●
Element Three: Increased Access to, and use of, Maternal and Child Health Services
by Indigenous Families.
The Early Childhood Development Steering Committee, comprising representatives from
relevant Australian Government and state and territory government departments, has
responsibility for developing further advice related to the National Early Childhood
Development (ECD) Strategy as directed by the Council of Australian Governments
(COAG). This includes responsibility for making recommendations to the senior officials
meeting, representing Australian Government central agencies and state and territory
government agencies, in relation to:
●
initiatives related to reform areas identified in the strategy
●
a national outcomes reporting framework and progress measures for the ECD
strategy
●
development of a National Early Years Workforce Strategy which will improve the
recruitment and retention of qualified teachers and early childhood workers,
particularly in the child care sector and areas of high need.
The Inclusion and Professional Support Program service providers are located throughout
Australia. They deliver a broad range of inclusion and professional support services to
eligible mainstream and non-mainstream child care services.
Schools
●
Block Grant Authorities in each state and territory received and assessed the
applications and administered non-government grants for schools participating in
National Secondary School Computer Fund projects. Block Grant Authorities
-
continue to administer funds to schools through the Digital Education
Revolution funding agreements
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-
support secondary schools through the application process for funding under
the Trade Training Centres in Schools Program and administered funding to
schools successful for funding under the program.
●
The department collaborated with state and territory governments and
nongovernment school authorities on policy development and program matters. It
supports the Ministerial Council for Education, Early Childhood Development and
Youth Affairs and its task forces, which coordinate strategic policy at the national
level and negotiate and develop national agreements on shared objectives and
interests.
●
The Australian Information and Communications Technology in Education Committee
is a cross-sectoral national committee advising Australian ministers of education and
training on the effective utilisation of ICT in Australian education and training. The
committee’s terms of reference include providing strategic cross-jurisdictional and
cross-sectoral policy advice on the implementation of the Digital Education
Revolution and facilitating national consultation, collaboration and coordination in
this context.
●
The National School Chaplaincy Program consultation process commenced in
February 2010 to develop options for government consideration of the future of the
program for 2012 and beyond. The process involves consultation with stakeholders,
including state education authorities, representatives of the independent and
Catholic school sectors, chaplaincy service providers, unions, parent and community
organisations and peak bodies. Members of the public may also participate by
making submissions, and information on the consultation process, including how to
register an interest to participate in consultation meetings and/ or to lodge a
submission, is available through www.deewr.gov.au/schooling/NationalSchool
ChaplaincyProgram .
●
A National Partnership Literacy and Numeracy expert group has been established to
advise on the development of an evidence base of effective practice in literacy and
numeracy as part of the Smarter Schools—National Partnership Agreement on
Literacy and Numeracy. The group includes representatives nominated by each
jurisdiction, the Australian Government, the National Catholic Education
Commission, and the Independent Schools Council of Australia, as well as
Indigenous and special education representatives with literacy or numeracy
expertise.
●
The Teach for Australia National Coordinating Group was established in September
2009. The group, which is chaired by the department, was set up to oversee the
implementation of the Teach for Australia initiative. The group brings together key
stakeholders to consult and support nationally consistent implementation, including
representatives of state and territory education authorities, the Australasian Teacher
Regulatory Authorities, the Teach For Australia organisation and the University of
Melbourne.
●
Indigenous Education Consultative Bodies provide independent advice to the state,
territory and Australian governments, facilitate the involvement of Indigenous
Australians in the education system and encourage the incorporation of Indigenous
culture and perspectives in the curriculum. An Indigenous Education Consultative
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Body currently exists in each state and territory under various names and
structures.
●
Two advisory mechanisms have supported the implementation and establishment of
the Indigenous Youth Leadership Program (IYLP) from 2006. The IYLP Indigenous
Advisory Group supported the original program administrator—the Foundation for
Young Australians—to implement the program over 2006–2009 by providing advice
on cultural integrity. The IYLP National Reference Group has brought stakeholders
from the education sector together to advise the department, and to provide
information to schools within their sectors. These groups have also advised the
department as it developed policies to expand the program from 2008 and they
continue to offer important guidance and advice.
●
The department conducted regular consultations with stakeholders, principally
through project steering and advisory committees but also through information
sessions and forums for various projects.
Building the Education Revolution
The department conducted regular consultations with stakeholders delivering under the
Building the Education Revolution program, through teleconferences, face-to-face
meetings and working groups convened for specific policy matters relating to the
program.
Tertiary, youth and international
The department had regular contact with government and non-government stakeholders
and clients about youth policy and program administration, including the Transition to
Independent Living Allowance program and the Youth Development and Support
Program. Non-government policy stakeholders include the Australian Youth Affairs
Coalition and the National Advisory Group on Body Image.
The National Advisory Group on Body Image was established and appointed by the Hon
Kate Ellis MP, Minister for Youth, to provide advice on a national approach to this issue.
The group consisted of representatives from the health sector, the media and fashion
industries, academia, relevant non-government organisations and a young member.
The Australian Government consults with young people and youth stakeholders through
Australian Youth Forum events and public discussion forums hosted on the Australian
Youth Forum website www.youth.gov.au/ayf .
The department receives advice on the ongoing development of the youth engagement
activities of the Australian Youth Forum through the Youth Engagement Steering
Committee. The committee consists of 14 young Australians aged 15–24 years at the
time of selection.
The Office for Youth supported the participation of young members on the National
Planning Group, which guides the delivery of National Youth Week each year.
The Industry Skills Council Workplace English Language and Literacy (WELL) Network is
funded through the WELL Program to promote cross-industry sharing and collaboration
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on issues relating to essential skills, including language, literacy and numeracy in
workplace training and development.
Information on projects funded under the Teaching and Learning Capital Fund for
Vocational Education and Training is available online at www.deewr.gov.au/tlcfvet and at
the Nation Building website www.economicstimulusplan.gov.au .
The Australian Government, through a national network of Australian Apprenticeships
Centres, provides support services to employers and individuals to access quality
Australian Apprenticeships. Extensive consultation has been and will continue to be
undertaken with state and territory governments, current providers and other industry
stakeholders in the development of future service delivery improvements.
The Australian Government, in consultation with representatives from each state and
territory training authority and peak industry bodies such as Group Training Australia,
provides information for the development of policy relating to group training and for the
support of Australian Apprenticeships through group training.
COAG endorsed the Green Skills Agreement on 7 December 2009. The objectives of the
agreement are to:
●
embed skills for sustainability practice and teaching in vocational education and
training within the requirements of the national regulatory framework
●
upskill VET instructors and teachers to deliver skills for sustainability
●
undertake the strategic review of training packages to embed sustainability
knowledge, skills and principles
●
implement a transition strategy to reskill vulnerable workers.
The Green Skills Agreement Implementation Group was established by the Ministerial
Council for Tertiary Education and Employment in early 2010. This followed work
undertaken throughout 2009 to develop a national response to Australia’s future skills
needs in the transition to a low-carbon economy. Membership is drawn from the
Australian Government; state and territory training authorities; Adult Learning Australia;
the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry; the Australian Council for Private
Education and Training; the Australian Council of Trade Unions; the Australian Industry
Group; TAFE Directors Australia; and Universities Australia. The agreement will support
national strategic policy objectives to promote productivity and economic opportunities in
mitigating and adapting to climate change. The secretariat for the implementation group
is provided by the department.
In the administration of the VET FEE-HELP Assistance Scheme, the Minister has
legislative powers under the Higher Education Support Act 2003 to make legislative
instruments and determinations. These legislative instruments and determinations set
out the requirements that applicants for VET provider approval must satisfy in order to
obtain approval as VET providers under the Act and maintain ongoing approval
thereafter. They are publicly available to all external stakeholders outside the Australian
Government, giving transparency in the administration of the scheme.
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Over the duration of the scheme, legislative instruments relating to its administration
have been released for VET sector comment. If VET sector submissions are consistent
with the legislative framework and the Australian Government’s policy intent for the
scheme, the government gives consideration to making appropriate changes to the
legislative instrument. This process allows for bodies or persons outside the Australian
Government administration to participate in policy formulation, decision-making
processes and the overall administration of the scheme.
Higher education
The department used a number of mechanisms to consult widely with the higher
education sector on the implementation of the government’s higher education reform
agenda, announced in its 2008–09 Budget response to the Bradley report Review of
Australian Higher Education.
It also provided the sector with regular reform updates through the department’s website
and the Higher Education 2020 newsletter.
In July 2009 a discussion paper, Mission-based Compacts for Universities: A Framework
for Discussion, was released for sector comment. Consultations with universities and
other key stakeholders were held in major capital cities in July and August 2009.
In addition, the department and the Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and
Research (DIISR) held interim agreement discussions with each university in late 2009 in
the lead-up to the introduction of mission-based compacts in 2010 for 2011. These
discussions considered institutions’ current activities and forward strategic planning.
Agreements between the government and each university are available on the websites
of the department www.deewr.gov.au and DIISR www.innovation.gov.au.
As part of the compacts process, bilateral meetings with senior state and territory
government officials were held in all jurisdictions over 2009–10.
As part of the government’s commitment to review regional loading, the department
sought input from key stakeholders through a state-based consultation process and
invited submissions in response to a discussion paper, Review of Regional Loading—
Issues for Regional Provision. These submissions are available on the department’s
website.
In establishing the government’s $400 million Structural Adjustment Fund, the
department released draft program guidelines to the higher education sector and TAFE
Directors Australia for comment. Stakeholder feedback has been taken into account in
the development of the final program guidelines.
Each provider that receives funding under the Commonwealth Grant Scheme enters into
a funding agreement with the Australian Government, specifying the number of places
and the discipline mix that will be supported and any conditions attached to the funding.
The funding agreements are settled in consultation with each provider in the context of
its mission and strategic direction for providing courses.
A number of independent bodies and committees have assisted the department in the
implementation of the government’s higher education reforms. In addition to
ministerially-appointed bodies such as the Education Investment Fund Advisory Board
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and the third Indigenous Higher Education Advisory Council, the department has
established a range of reference groups and working groups to participate in the
implementation of reforms. These bodies include the Regional Provision Reference Group.
The Higher Education Data Reference Group has been formed to provide a consultative
forum to support ongoing review of higher education data collections. The group
membership includes nominees from the higher education sector, the National Centre for
Vocational Education Research, the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Universities Australia,
the Australian Council for Private Education and Training, DIISR and DEEWR. Meetings
are held biannually.
In 2009 the government established the Indicator Development Group. This is an expert
group that assists in the development of indicators that could be used to negotiate
targets with universities for the purposes of performance funding for teaching and
learning. In December 2009, the department released a discussion paper An Indicator
Framework for Higher Education Performance Funding, based on discussion with and
advice from the group, who also provided advice on the development of measures of low
socioeconomic status among higher education students.
Since its inauguration in 2005, the Indigenous Higher Education Advisory Council (IHEAC)
has provided the government with policy advice on enhancing participation and outcomes
for Indigenous students and staff in study, research training, research and employment
in higher education.
The council, now in its third term, is appointed by the Minister for Education and the
Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research.
Council members are appointed based on their relevant knowledge of Indigenous higher
education issues and involvement in relevant networks. Members serve on the council in
an individual capacity rather than representing the interests of their organisation. The
third IHEAC includes senior Indigenous academics, researchers and administrators from a
range of Australian higher education and research providers. The term of council
membership is three years, and no member may be appointed for more than two terms.
The IHEAC meets at least twice a year and members form regular, out-of-session
working groups to provide policy advice through the development of reports and
submission papers. In 2009–10, the IHEAC had an administered budget of $296 000.
In July 2009 the government contracted Universities Australia to provide a stocktake of
existing Indigenous cultural competency initiatives in Australian universities and to fund
up to five Indigenous cultural competency pilot projects in universities, based on
applications.
Under the funding agreement, the Indigenous Cultural Competency in Australian
Universities Project Steering Committee was established, consisting of representatives
from Universities Australia, the department and the IHEAC.
The project steering committee will exist for the duration of the funding agreement (12
June 2009 to 31 May 2011). Members can participate in decision making for the purposes
of the agreement, including around the selection, contract management and evaluation of
the successful Indigenous cultural competency pilot projects.
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International
The department convenes independent selection panels to consider applications under
the Endeavour Awards.
Strategy
Indigenous employment
The Indigenous Economic Strategies Group consults on various components of the
Indigenous Employment Program. During 2009–10 the group consulted on the draft
guidelines to support implementation of the Indigenous Opportunities Policy. The policy is
expected to be fully implemented by 1 January 2011.
Business Leaders Forum and Indigenous Employment and Enterprise Action
Group
On 23 February 2010, Senator the Hon Mark Arbib, Minister for Employment
Participation, convened a Business Leaders Forum titled Indigenous Employment:
Everyone’s Business. The forum enabled participants to share experiences of what is
working and identify challenges which need to be resolved to ensure increased and
sustainable Indigenous employment opportunities.
Following the forum, an Indigenous employment and enterprise road map is being
developed to establish a framework for the corporate, government and other sectors to
lead new initiatives to increase employment and enterprise opportunities for Indigenous
Australians.
To underpin the role of the corporate sector in driving forward these commitments, the
Indigenous Employment and Enterprise Action Group has been formed. It includes
members who represent the corporate, Indigenous business, service provider and
training sectors.
Indigenous Economic Development Strategy
In May 2009, the government released its draft Indigenous Economic Development
Strategy for consultation. Feedback is being sought on the draft strategy, with a national
consultation process underway until 1 November 2010. Individuals, communities,
employers, organisations and other stakeholders are able to contribute via written
submission, email or at one of the face-to-face sessions scheduled to be held with
Indigenous stakeholders and other interested parties in over 20 locations around the
country. Details of public consultations will be advised on the www. indigenous.gov.au
website as they become available.
Local Employment Coordinators
As part of the Australian Government’s Compact with Local Communities, the department
has engaged Local Employment Coordinators (LEC) in priority employment areas. LECs
help match local businesses and workers with job opportunities created by the Nation
Building—Economic Stimulus Plan, create job opportunities for local people and work with
key local stakeholders to develop and implement a regional employment plan.
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In developing a regional employment plan, LECs established and consulted with a Keep
Australia Working Advisory Committee in each priority employment area. The advisory
committees comprise key local stakeholders, including business, community and
government representatives, and meet regularly as determined by the LEC.
Keep Australia Working
The interim Keep Australia Working report recommended that Keep Australia Working job
forums be held in all priority employment areas. The forums brought all levels of
government, local employers, business leaders and community organisations together to
discuss and develop ontheground solutions to local employment issues. The Prime
Minister, the Minister for Employment Participation and the Parliamentary Secretary for
Employment attended a number of forums. From 14 July 2009 to 13 November 2009, 22
forums were conducted in 20 priority employment areas. Following the forums, the LECs
in each priority employment area formed Keep Australia Working advisory committees
and developed regional employment plans.
The final Keep Australia Working report recommended that Keep Australia Working job
expos and financial information seminars be held in all priority employment areas. The
job expos provide a jobs marketplace for local job seekers and employers with job
opportunities and training information. The Prime Minister, the Minister for Employment
Participation and the Parliamentary Secretary for Employment attended a number of job
expos. From 14 October 2009 to 29 June 2010, 22 job expos were conducted in 19
priority employment areas.
Building the Recovery information sessions
As part of the Keep Australia Working initiative, the department held Building the
Recovery information sessions in a number of priority employment areas. The sessions
helped connect local construction businesses, and those that supply the construction
industry, to opportunities created by the Nation Building—Economic Stimulus Plan and
other major Australian Government and private sector projects in the region. They were
run in conjunction with state and local government, industry associations and private
enterprise. The sessions also outlined how local businesses and tradespeople can tender
for government business and what services and programs exist to support and assist
local business.
Better connections
The department is working with state and territory governments to develop strategies to
improve the delivery of services and employment outcomes for job seekers through
better connections between the employment services and training sectors. This work
commenced in May 2010 and has involved consultation sessions with Job Services
Australia providers in capital cities. Consultations with a range of stakeholders will
continue, best practices will be identified and disseminated to providers and
demonstration projects will trial new ways of working with the wide range of existing
state and Commonwealth resources.
Insulation Workers Adjustment Package
The Insulation Workers’ Adjustment Package was designed to provide assistance to
workers and firms in the insulation industry and includes employer incentives to train
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staff, access to training places and employment services and support for businesses to
diversify. The package included the funding of Insulation Employment Coordinators who
brokered and facilitated the development of assistance packages for eligible businesses.
Workers and employers can seek further information on the package by contacting the
Keep Australia Working hotline (13 17 64).
Mature age participation and Golden Gurus
In February 2010, the Consultative Forum on Mature Age Participation was established to
provide advice on practical solutions to address barriers to employment for mature age
people. The forum includes representatives of seniors groups, the Australian Council of
Trade Unions, employers and industry groups, the National Employment Services
Association and other key stakeholders. The Commissioner responsible for Age
Discrimination is also a member of the forum. The forum’s work is supported by
consultation with academics and other experts.
Consultation with volunteering bodies and small business mentoring services continued
throughout 2010 to support the implementation of the national Golden Gurus program,
which commenced on 1 January 2010.
Research and evaluation
Research projects and evaluations are designed, conducted and reported on in close
collaboration with a range of internal and external stakeholders. Formal and informal
arrangements exist for consultation about research and evaluation data issues with
relevant government departments and peak bodies. Other key stakeholders include
school staff, parents, apprentices, trainees, early childhood agencies, job seekers,
employment agencies, employers, state and local levels of government, and LECs.
The Economic Strategy Group conducts research projects in close collaboration with a
range of internal and external stakeholders. There are formal and informal arrangements
for consultation about research, data issues and survey design and implementation with
relevant government departments and peak bodies.
The department invited organisations interested in employing Pacific seasonal workers to
submit an expression of interest to participate in the Pacific Seasonal Worker Pilot
Scheme as an approved employer. The department published expression of interest
documentation on its website and emailed interested organisations.
The Economic Strategy Group provides chairperson and secretariat services to the
National Stakeholder Consultative Panel and local advisory bodies. The consultative panel
was established to provide a national forum for discussion about the implementation and
evaluation of the pilot. It comprises representatives from the Uniting Church in Australia,
the Recruitment and Consulting Services Association, the Australian Workers’ Union, the
National Farmers’ Federation, and the Horticulture Australia Council. Local advisory
bodies were established to advise on the local implementation of the Pacific Seasonal
Worker Pilot Scheme in Griffith, New South Wales, and Swan Hill–Robinvale, Victoria.
These bodies comprise representatives of growers and of local government, union and
community organisations.
The Social Policy Group works across the portfolio to develop evidence-based policies to
promote the social and economic engagement of people in activities that increase their
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chances of being financially independent and of leading fulfilling and useful lives. The
group works with key stakeholders on matters relating to changes to social security
legislation and on the implementation of the government’s social policies as they relate to
the portfolio.
The group has responsibility for the development and implementation of the Familycentred Employment Project, a demonstration project to assist jobless families with
children into employment, education and social participation. The project, which was
announced in the 2009–10 Budget, is a place-based initiative and will be delivered in
three areas across Australia: Goodna, Queensland; Mansfield Park and Angle Park, South
Australia; and Broadmeadows, Victoria. In developing a local response in each of these
areas, the group engaged with key stakeholders from each community, including
residents and local, state and federal governments.
The group continued to work closely with state and territory education departments,
Centrelink and the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous
Affairs (FaHCSIA) to progress implementation and monitor performance of the Improving
School Enrolment and Attendance Measure in selected trial locations in the Northern
Territory. It trials the effectiveness of attaching conditions to income support payments
and encourages parents to ensure that their children of compulsory school age are
enrolled in and attending school regularly. In 2009–10, the measure was implemented in
additional trial locations in Queensland.
The group carries out evidence-based research, analysis and evaluation. Research
projects and evaluations are designed, conducted and reported on in close collaboration
with a range of internal and external stakeholders. Formal and informal arrangements
exist for consultation about research projects and evaluations with relevant government
departments and peak bodies. Other key stakeholders include school staff, parents,
apprentices, trainees, early childhood agencies, employment agencies, employers and job
seekers.
Employment
The Income Support Group consults with the National Employment Services Association,
Centrelink, the National Welfare Rights Network and the Australian Council of Social
Service on matters relating to the delivery of employment services and income support.
The Employment Systems Group implemented an extensive consultation process with
current and prospective employment service provider organisations as well as major peak
body industry representatives during the delivery of the Employment Services Systems
for Job Services Australia and Disability Employment Services contracts.
The group established the Employment Services IT Advisory Group—comprising peak
industry body representatives (the National Employment Services Association (NESA) ,
the ACE National and Jobs Australia) and an independent IT representative—to review
and advise on the consultation approach and system developments from an industrywide perspective. Advisory group membership was extended to include additional
representation from disability employment service peak bodies (the Australian
Rehabilitation Providers Association and National Disability Services) during the
implementation of the system changes.
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The department consults with Disability Employment Services providers, former Disability
Employment Network members, Vocational Rehabilitation Services providers and peak
organisations. Among peak bodies consulted are NESA, ACE National, National Disability
Services and Australian Federation of Disability Organisations.
The two former disability employment programs, Disability Employment Network and
Vocational Rehabilitation Services, operated until 1 March 2010, when they were replaced
by Disability Employment Services. These programs help people with disability, injury or
a health condition to obtain and retain open employment under conditions that meet the
requirements of the Disability Services Act 1986. The Disability Services Standards
require that disability employment services have an internal complaint handling
mechanism that is accessible and effective. Consumers also have access to the national
Complaints Resolution and Referral Service—an independent service funded by the
Australian Government to investigate and assist in the resolution of complaints from
consumers of specialist disability services.
The Specialist Employment Services Group has consulted with Job Capacity Assessment
(JCA) providers and industry peak bodies on improved arrangements to assessments for
Disability Support Pension claims announced as part of FaHCSIA’s Better and Fairer
Assessments measure announced in the 2009–10 Budget. Regular teleconferences and
face-to-face meetings were conducted with JCA provider organisations and NESA to
discuss the strengthening of qualification requirements for assessors conducting JCAs for
Disability Support Pension claims.
General Employment Services
The General Employment Services Group and the government consult widely with
employment service providers and peak organisations on the development,
implementation and delivery of employment services across Australia. During 2008–09
this included extensive consultation on the transition and implementation of Job Services
Australia. Employment service providers have continued to be consulted during 2009–10,
through ongoing reference groups and peak bodies such as NESA.
The General Employment Services Group consults on program performance and the
delivery of policy objectives with National Green Jobs Corps providers; Job Services
Australia providers; and Centrelink.
Workplace relations
Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner
The role of the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC) is to promote and
improve occupational health and safety (OHS) performance in the building and
construction industry.
A key function is the operation of the Australian Government Building and Construction
OHS Accreditation Scheme. Under the scheme, Australian Government agencies can fund
building work only if it is carried out by accredited companies, subject to certain financial
thresholds. The OFSC consults widely with Australian Government agencies, relevant
state and territory agencies, key industry and employee representatives and companies.
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The OFSC has established industry and government reference groups to advise the
Federal Safety Commissioner on matters affecting the building and construction
industry’s OHS performance and to share key information. These reference groups meet
quarterly.
The National Workplace Relations Consultative Council is a tripartite peak consultative
body established by the National Workplace Relations Consultative Council Act 2002. The
purpose of the council is to provide, in the public interest, a regular and organised means
of allowing representatives of government, employers and employees—and, when the
Minister considers it appropriate, representatives of other bodies and organisations—to
consult on workplace relations matters of national concern. The Act also sets out
procedures for appointment to the council and specifies that the council must meet once
every six months.
The International Labour Affairs Committee is a subcommittee of the council that
discusses international labour issues, including the adoption of, and reporting on,
International Labour Organization (ILO) standards. The committee was established as
part of Australia’s obligations under the Tripartite Consultation (International Labour
Standards) Convention 1976—ILO Convention 144—to consult regularly with the most
representative organisations of employers and workers. It normally meets twice a year.
The ILO Technical Officers Meeting is an annual meeting of Australian Government, state
and territory officials responsible for ILO matters. The meeting serves to fulfil Australia’s
obligation under Article 19.7 of the ILO Constitution, which requires federal states such
as Australia to consult with their constituent states in relation to unratified ILO
conventions (including compliance matters and attitudes to ratification). The department
convenes the meeting, which is hosted by one of the participants. The meeting also
provides a forum to share information on the ILO’s standard-setting activities, inform
states and territories of important developments in the ILO that relate to standard setting
and discuss any reports the ILO requires on Australia’s compliance with international
labour standards.
The Workplace Relations Ministers’ Council comprises Commonwealth, state and territory
ministers for workplace relations and OHS. The council is a forum for discussion about
workplace relations, workers compensation and OHS issues and a place to make
recommendations to Commonwealth, state and territory governments.
In 2009–10, the council met several times to discuss the formation of a national
workplace relations system for the private sector, the development of the Fair Work
Amendment (State Referrals and Other Measures) Act 2009 and the Fair Work Legislation
Amendment Regulations 2009 (No. 3). Several meetings between Commonwealth, state
and territory officials also took place during the development of the referral legislation,
which enables states to support the national system by referring workplace relations
matters to the Commonwealth.
On 1 January 2010, the Intergovernmental Agreement for a National Workplace Relations
System for the Private Sector came into effect. The agreement requires the
Commonwealth to consult with referring states and territories about proposed
amendments to the Fair Work legislation and regulations. In 2009–10 referring states
and territories were consulted on the development of the Fair Work (Transitional
Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Amendment Regulations 2010 (No.1) and
the Fair Work Legislation Amendment Regulations 2010 (No.3).
254
Annual Report 2009-10
The Committee of Industrial Legislation is a subcommittee of the National Workplace
Relations Consultative Council and provides a mechanism for the department to consult
with peak employer and union organisations on workplace and related legislative matters.
Meetings are arranged as required and may include additional outside participants invited
by the Minister. In 2009–10 the committee met once to consider the Fair Work
(Transitional Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Amendment Regulations 2009
(No. 1).
Categories of documents held by the department
The department maintains the following documents for which access can be requested
under the Freedom of Information Act 1982. Certain documents may, however, be
exempt under the Act. Some categories of documents are held throughout the
department, including the following:
●
Cabinet documents
●
documents relating to internal administration—financial, staffing, office procedures,
governance, and so on
●
documents relating to audits, investigations and Ombudsman inquiries
●
documents relating to policy advice and portfolio administration—including reports,
briefings, secretariat papers, correspondence, minutes and submissions
●
documents relating to program administration—including applications and approvals,
progress reports, payments, research and evaluation reports, program evaluation
and audit reports, and relevant correspondence
●
electronic records maintained on departmental databases
●
grant applications, supporting documentation, assessments, decisions, and
consequential accounting documents
●
legal advice and related documentation ministerial briefings
●
records of correspondence to the Minister and the department
●
reference material used by staff and contract providers—including guidelines,
manuals and operational advice
●
request for tender documentation, exposure drafts, tender proposals, evaluations,
contracts and funding agreements
●
research papers
●
submissions to and reports on public inquiries.
Other holdings include information about the Job Seeker Classification Instrument.
255
Annual Report 2009-10
Facilities for access to documents available free of charge or for
purchase
The following facilities were made available to people by the department to give them
access to documents, either free of charge or for a fee.
Office of Early Childhood Education and Child Care
Information regarding early childhood education and child care, including publications,
forms and fact sheets, are publicly available online at
www.deewr.gov.au/earlychildhood/resources and www.mychild.gov.au From 1 July 2009
the website has displayed vacancy information as well as maps showing the location of
most child care services. From 1 January 2010 the child care estimator became available.
Schools
The Digital Education Revolution documents, available free of charge, can be found at
www.digitaleducationrevolution.gov.au.
Application guidelines for the ICT Innovation Fund—part of the Digital Strategy for
Teachers and School Leaders—are published on the Digital Education Revolution website
and can be accessed at
www.deewr.gov.au/Schooling/DigitalEducationRevolution/DigitalStrategyforTeachers/Pag
es/ ICTInnovationFund.aspx.
The Vocational Education Broadband Network documents, available free of charge, can be
found at www.deewr.gov.au/Schooling/Programs/VEN/Pages/Implementation.aspx.
National School Chaplaincy Program documents, available free of charge, can be found at
www.deewr.gov.au/schooling/NationalSchoolChaplaincyProgram/Pages/home.aspx.
Profiles for documents and publications from 2002 to the present have been produced by
the department. Profiles for pre-2002 documents and publications will be available over
time. The profiles are available as web pages and can be accessed from the department’s
website
www.dest.gov.au/sectors/school_education/publications_resources/profiles/default.htm.
Information on the National Asian Languages and Studies in Schools Program, including
the program guidelines and application information for the Strategic Collaboration and
Partnership Fund, are available at www.deewr.gov.au/schooling/NALSSP.
The Administrative Guidelines: Commonwealth Programs for Non-Government Schools,
2009–2012 and the Australian Government Programmes for Schools Quadrennial
Administrative Guidelines 2005–2008 can be accessed at
www.deewr.gov.au/Schooling/Programs/Pages/ SchoolsAssistanceAct2008.aspx.
The Schools Assistance (Learning Together—Achievement Through Choice and
Opportunity) Act 2004 report on financial assistance granted to each state in respect of
2008 can be found at
www.deewr.gov.au/Schooling/RecurrentGrants/NonGovSchools/Pages/GrantsToStates.as
px.
256
Annual Report 2009-10
The Schools Assistance Act 2008 (No. 153) and the Schools Assistance Regulations 2009
(No. 132) can be accessed on the Commonwealth of Australia Law website
www.comlaw.gov.au.
The Trade Training Centres in Schools Program documents, which are available free of
charge, can be found at
www.deewr.gov.au/Schooling/TradeTrainingCentres/Pages/default.aspx.
The COAG website www.coag.gov.au provides information relating to the Smarter
Schools National Partnerships. Smarter Schools National Partnerships documents are
available free of charge at www.deewr.gov.au/Schooling/Programs/SmarterSchools.
The Indigenous Education (Targeted Assistance) Act 2000 provides the legislative basis
and appropriates funding for a variety of Indigenous education and training programs.
The 2009–2012 guidelines are available from
www.deewr.gov.au/Indigenous/pages/programs.aspx.
Building the Education Revolution
A range of information can be found at
www.deewr.gov.au/schooling/BuildingTheEducationRevolution. This includes program
guidelines and lists of successful schools funded under the National School Pride, Primary
Schools for the 21st Century and Science and Language Centres for 21st Century
Secondary Schools elements of the program. There are also information and links to the
Building the Education Revolution Implementation Taskforce.
Tertiary, youth and international
The National Strategy for Young Australians is available at
www.youth.gov.au/nationalstrategy.html.
National Youth Affairs Research Scheme publications are available at
www.deewr.gov.au/Youth/Programs/NYARS.
The Youth website www.youth.gov.au provides a central hub of government information
for young people.
Information regarding the Language, Literacy and Numeracy Practitioner Scholarships
Program, including guidelines, frequently asked questions and forms for successful
applicants, is available at www.deewr.gov.au/llnscholarships.
Information on strategies and resources for the effective delivery of language, literacy
and numeracy-based training, as well as information about specific programs including
WELL, is available at www.deewr.gov.au/literacynet.
Detailed information on the Workplace English Language and Literacy Program, including
guidelines, requirements and eligibility, and information on training, is available at
www.deewr.gov.au/well.
Information regarding the Adult Learners Week Program, including guidelines and FAQs,
is available at www.deewr.gov.au/alw.
257
Annual Report 2009-10
Information regarding the Foundation Skills Taster Course Program, including guidelines
and forms, is available at www.deewr.gov.au/fstc.
Guidelines and selection criteria relating to the Australian Training Awards are available
at www.australiantrainingawards.gov.au.
Guidelines and selection criteria relating to the Minister’s Awards for Excellence are
available at
www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/awards/2010/ministers_awards_2010.asp.
The Australian Apprenticeships Roundtable Report is available at
www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/Roundtable/Round_Table_new.asp.
Information on the Green Skills Agreement is available at
www.deewr.gov.au/Skills/Programs/ WorkDevelop/ClimateChangeSustainability.
Information regarding the VET FEE-HELP Assistance Scheme, including publications,
forms and fact sheets, is available at www.deewr.gov.au/vetfeehelp or by phoning the
inquiry line on 13 38 73.
Documents that relate to higher education and that are free of charge can be found at
www.deewr.gov.au/HigherEducation/Publications.
Review of Australian Higher Education: Final Report is available at www.deewr.gov.au/
highereducation/review/pages/reviewofaustralianhighereducationreport.aspx.
The Transforming Australia’s Higher Education System document is available at
www.deewr.gov.au/HigherEducation/Pages/TransformingAustraliasHESystem.aspx.
Other documents made available free of charge include:
●
guidelines for inclusion on AusLIST—the Australian list of providers and courses
around the world, available at www.auslist.deewr.gov.au
●
course and provider information extracted from the Commonwealth Register of
Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students, available at
www.cricos.deewr.gov.au
●
guidelines for providers of education and training to overseas students (including the
National Code 2007 and the Easy Guide to Education Services for Overseas
Students), available at www.aei.gov.au/AEI/ESOS
●
brochures and booklets on Australian education and training for international
promotion purposes to international students (including the Easy Guide to ESOS),
available at www.aei.gov.au/AEI/ESOS/EasyGuide_ESOS.htm
●
additional information regarding the Endeavour Awards and the International
Student Exchange Programs are available to the public free of charge at
www.deewr.gov.au/EndeavourAwards and at the Australian Government’s Australia
Awards website at www.AustraliaAwards.gov.au
258
Annual Report 2009-10
●
information for Australians considering overseas study is available at
www.StudyOverseas.gov.au.
Strategy
Information on the various elements of the Indigenous Employment Policy is available at
www.deewr.gov.au/indigenous.
Information on the various elements of the Indigenous Opportunities Policy is available at
www.deewr.gov.au/iop.
Published reports on new grant projects and AusTender requirements for new DEEWR
services can be found at
www.deewr.gov.au/Department/Publications/Pages/CorporatePublications.aspx.
Information on the draft Indigenous Economic Development Strategy is publicly available
online at
www.indigenous.gov.au/About/Pages/EconomicParticipation.aspx?tag=economic%20
participation#more or www.resources.fahcsia.gov.au/IEDS/.
The department maintains a dedicated telephone contact number (the Indigenous
Employment Line), to enable members of the public to gain access to documents relating
to Indigenous employment programs. The Indigenous Employment Line contact number
1802 102 is included on all Indigenous employment publications.
The list of Local Employment Coordinators is available at
www.keepaustraliaworking.gov.au/ pages/LocalEmploymentCoordinators.aspx.
The list of Insulation Employment Coordinators is available at
www.keepaustraliaworking.gov.au/ pages/InsulationWorkersAdjustmentPackage.aspx.
Regional employment plans are available at www.keepaustraliaworking.gov.au/pages/
RegionalEmploymentPlans.aspx.
The interim and final Keep Australia Working reports are available at
www.keepaustraliaworking.gov.au/pages/Strategy.aspx.
Information about the Consultative Forum on Mature Age Participation, including a
membership list and meeting summaries, is available at
www.deewr.gov.au/experienceplus.
Information about the Golden Gurus program is available at
www.deewr.gov.au/goldengurus.
Employment service support and evaluation publications are available online from
www.workplace.gov.au/workplace/Publications/ProgrammeEvaluation/. In 2009–10 the
following publications were added and are available as PDF downloads:
●
A Net Impact Study of Labour Market Assistance—Off Benefit Outcomes Measured in
2008
●
Job Services Australia 2009 to 2012 evaluation strategy
259
Annual Report 2009-10
●
Labour Market Assistance Outcomes.
Economic Strategy Group publications and resources are available online from the
SkillsInfo, Job Outlook, DEEWR and Workplace websites and through the department’s
national and state offices. These resources include analysis and information on labour
market conditions across a range of groups, including priority areas, industry and
occupation groups and youth.
The Skillsinfo website www.skillsinfo.gov.au contains skills-related information, including
on industry employment trends and prospects. The following reports are available for
downloading:
●
vacancy and supplementary vacancy reports
●
New Jobs: Employment Trends and Prospects for Australian Industries
●
industry employment outlooks
●
regional profiles.
Other reports are published free of charge on the Workplace website
www.workplace.gov.au/ workplace/Publications/LabourMarketAnalysis.
Publications, research and data from the Longitudinal Surveys of Australian Youth are
available from www.lsay.edu.au.
The National Mental Health and Disability Employment Strategy is available on the
department’s website as PDF and RFT downloads.
Work and your mental health, a brochure developed to help general practitioners talk to
their patients with mental illness about returning to work, is available on
www.jobaccess.gov.au as PDF and RTF downloads. Copies are also available free of
charge from JobAccess Advisers.
Employment
Labour Market and Related Payments—monthly profiles are available from
www.workplace.gov.au/lmrp.
The ABSTUDY Policy Manual is available from
www.deewr.gov.au/Indigenous/Schooling/Programs/ ABSTUDY/2010/Pages/home.aspx.
Guidelines for the approval of masters courses for student income support payments
2009 is available from www.deewr.gov.au/student_income_support.
The Guide to Social Security Law and the social security legislation are available on the
website of the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous
Affairs at www.facsia. gov.au/guides_acts/homeint.html.
The Guide to Australian Government Payments is available on Centrelink’s website at
www.centrelink.gov.au/internet/internet.nsf/filestores/co029_1007/$file/co029_1007en.p
df.
260
Annual Report 2009-10
Job seeker compliance data is available at
www.deewr.gov.au/Employment/ResearchStatistics/JobSeekerComplianceData/Complian
ceData/Pages/home.aspx.
Web-based resources and publications are available to assist all job seekers in their
search for employment. Job seekers can find an employment service provider, create and
load their résumé, access vacancies on JobSearch and access labour market information
via the Australian JobSearch website www.jobsearch.gov.au or by calling the
department’s customer service line on 13 62 68.
Employers can access information on recruitment services, find an employment services
provider and lodge an employment vacancy at www.deewr.gov.au,
www.workplace.gov.au and www. jobsearch.gov.au or by calling the department’s
employer hotline on 13 17 15.
Publicly available information from the Employment Systems Group includes Australian
JobSearch and job seeker promotional brochures and web services and Disability
Employment Services IT consultation online documents and resources, available at
www.deewr.gov.au/Employment/ Consultation/desit/Pages/default.aspx.
Information on disability employment and related services, including Disability
Employment Services, the former Disability Employment Network and Vocational
Rehabilitation Services, is available on the department’s website and the JobAccess
website at www.jobaccess.gov.au.
Information and final reports from COAG-funded research into mental health and
employment is available at
www.deewr.gov.au/Employment/ResearchStatistics/Pages/COAGmentalhealth.aspx.
Publicly available information on the Job Capacity Assessment program, including
program information, fact sheets and the customer service charter, can be found at
www.deewr.gov.au/ Employment/Programs/JCA/Pages/default.aspx.
Information on employment services, including Job Services Australia, is available online
at www.deewr.gov.au, www.workplace.gov.au, www.jobsearch.gov.au and
www.jobsearch.gov.au/ harvesttrail or by telephoning the department’s customer service
line on 13 62 68.
Information on National Green Jobs Corps, including a fact sheet and brochure, is
available online at www.deewr.gov.au and www.jobsearch.gov.au or by telephoning the
department’s customer service line on 13 62 68. The following documents, for which
there is no charge, can be obtained by writing to the department:
●
National Green Job Corps 2010–2011 Exposure Draft
●
National Green Jobs Corps 2010–2011 Request for Tender (RFT)—now closed
●
National Green Jobs Corps Funding Agreement 2010–2011
●
Marked Up National Green Jobs Corps Funding Agreement 2010–2011
●
National Green Jobs Corps Guidelines.
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Annual Report 2009-10
A fact sheet on the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) is available on the
department’s website. Information on NEIS is also available from www.jobsearch.gov.au
or by telephoning the department’s customer service line on 13 62 68.
Publicly available information from the Employment Services Management and
Procurement Group is contained in documents relating to complaints processes, including
the code of practice, service guarantees, forms and guidelines.
Workplace relations
Industry-specific information is available on the department’s website. Other information
specifically related to the building and construction industry is available at
www.deewr.gov.au/ building. The Building Industry Branch provides free access to
documents about the National Code of Practice and Implementation Guidelines through
the department’s website, by telephoning 1300 731 293 or by emailing
building@deewr.gov.au.
Fact sheets about the Fair Work Act 2009 are available from the department’s website,
which also provides government submissions to reviews and inquiries conducted by Fair
Work Australia; and workplace relations documents and information about the Workplace
Relations Ministers’ Council.
Workplace relations legislation, including the Fair Work Act 2009, and associated
regulations, are available at www.workplace.gov.au and the ComLaw website
www.comlaw.gov.au, which provides data on developments in federal agreement making
(Trends in Federal Enterprise Bargaining) and government submissions to the Australian
Fair Pay Commission.
●
The website www.workplace.gov.au also provides workplace relations information
including government submissions to inquiries conducted by the Australian
Industrial Relations Commission and other workplace relations documents and
information about the Workplace Relations Ministers’ Council.
The Workplace website is currently being decommissioned and will be migrated to the
department’s website in the coming months.
Free access to documents about the General Employee Entitlements and Redundancy
Scheme and the Special Employee Entitlements Scheme for Ansett group employees is
available through the department’s website, by telephoning 1300 135 040 or by emailing
GEERS@deewr.gov.au.
Information on the current status of model OHS legislation can be found at the Safe Work
Australia website www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au.
The first step in the development of model OHS legislation was the National Review into
Model OHS Laws. Information on the national OHS review can be found at
nationalohsreview.gov.au.
Information on the Comcare Review can be found at
www.deewr.gov.au/WorkplaceRelations/ Policies/ComcareReview
262
Annual Report 2009-10
The website of the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC) www.fsc.gov.au
provides details of the role and functions of the office and practical guidance on the
scheme.
Access to documents
People who wish to access documents under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 should
make inquiries to:
The FOI Team Leader
Litigation and External Review Legal Branch
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
GPO Box 9880
CANBERRA ACT 2601
Or by email to: foi@deewr.gov.au.
Applications for access to documents in the department’s possession must be made in
writing. There is no mandatory form however, the application must include an address to
which notices can be sent.
Applicants may wish to discuss the nature and scope of an intended request or the
freedom of information process with one of the department’s freedom of information
coordinators.
Freedom of information requests in 2009–10
Table A3.1 shows the status of freedom of information applications for access to
departmental information in the possession of the Department of Education, Employment
and Workplace Relations for the period 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010.
Table A3.1 Freedom of information applications for access to departmental
information, 2009-10
Applications considered
On hand at 1 July 2009
Number
42
Received
290
Granted in full
156
Granted in part
47
Not granted
14
Withdrawn
68
Transferred
On hand at 30 June 2010
Internal reviews
4
43
8
263
Annual Report 2009-10
Applications considered
Number
Appeals to the Administrative
Appeals Tribunal
2
Appendix 4 - Tripartite consultation on International
labour Organization matters
This report on the tripartite consultations on International Labour Organization (ILO)
matters has been prepared in accordance with Australia’s commitments under the ILO
Tripartite Consultation (International Labour Standards) Convention, 1976 (Convention
No. 144). Australia ratified the convention in June 1979.
Tripartite consultation on ILO matters, including international labour standards, occurs
through:
●
regular meetings of the International Labour Affairs Committee (ILAC), a committee
of the National Workplace Relations Consultative Council
●
direct consultation between the department and the representative worker and
employer organisations (the social partners)—that is, the Australian Council of Trade
Unions, the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Australian
Industry Group.
ILAC was established in 1978 under s. 12(1) of the then National Labour Consultative
Council Act 1977 (replaced by the National Workplace Relations Consultative Council Act
2002). Its terms of reference require it to consider matters of substance relating to the
ILO and other relevant international bodies.
In 2009–10, ILAC met three times: on 24 July 2009, 23 October 2009 and 1 March 2010.
Article 5 of Convention No. 144 requires consultation on several matters. These matters,
and the way in which the Australian Government responded to them in 2009–10, are
discussed in the following sections.
Government replies to questionnaires
The social partners were invited to contribute to a variety of Australian Government
responses to ILO questionnaires and reports throughout 2009–10.
Proposed recommendation on HIV/AIDs and the world of work
The social partners were invited to comment on the draft text of the proposed
recommendation on HIV/AIDS and the world of work, which was based on the
conclusions adopted by the ILO after the first discussion of the instrument at the Ninetyeighth Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC), held on 3–19 June 2009. No
comments were received from the social partners by the Australian Government.
Proposed instrument on domestic workers
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Annual Report 2009-10
The social partners were invited to contribute to the Australian Government response to
the questionnaire on the proposed international instrument on domestic workers, in
preparation for the first discussion of the instrument at the Ninety-ninth Session of the
ILC, held on 2–18 June 2010. The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
provided general remarks on the questionnaire to the Australian Government and the
Australian Council of Trade Unions submitted a detailed response to the questionnaire
directly to the ILO.
2010 International Labour Conference
The social partners were invited to contribute to briefs prepared by the Australian
Government for the Ninety-ninth Session of the ILC, held on 2–18 June 2010. The
conference covered the following technical items:
●
decent work for domestic workers (standard setting—first discussion)
●
adoption of an autonomous recommendation on HIV/AIDS and the world of work
(second discussion)
●
recurrent discussion on the strategic objective of employment.
The technical items covered at the conference were discussed at the ILAC meetings of 23
October 2009 and 1 March 2010. Consultations with social partners on the technical
items were also undertaken at the margins of the conference. The social partners did not
submit formal comments to the department in the lead-up to the conference.
Article 19 report on selected unratified conventions
The social partners were invited to contribute to the Australian Government response to a
questionnaire on a number of unratified ILO conventions and recommendations, which
are requested annually under Article 19 of the ILO Constitution. The conventions and
recommendations related to social security, namely:
●
Convention No. 102, Social Security (Minimum Standards) Convention, 1952
●
Convention No. 168, Employment Promotion and Protection against Unemployment
Convention, 1988
●
Recommendation No. 67, Income Security Recommendation, 1944
●
Recommendation No. 69, Medical Care Recommendation, 1944.
No comments were received from the social partners.
Re-examination at appropriate intervals of unratified conventions
and of recommendations
At the ILAC meetings of 23 October 2009 and 1 March 2010, ILAC members discussed
the following unratified ILO instruments:
●
Maritime Labour Convention, 2006
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
Protocol of 2002 to the Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 1981 (Protocol
No. 155)
●
Convention No. 162, Asbestos Convention, 1986
●
Convention No. 175, Part-Time Work Convention, 1994
●
Convention No. 138, Minimum Age Convention, 1973
●
Convention No. 177, Home Work Convention, 1996.
The Maritime Labour Convention was also discussed at the ILAC meeting on 24 July
2009.
ILO Convention No. 183, Maternity Protection Convention, 2000, and the United Nations
International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of all Migrant Workers and Their
Families were also discussed at the ILAC meeting on 1 March 2010.
During 2009–10 ILAC noted, with respect to the Maritime Labour Convention, Convention
No. 162, Protocol No. 155, Convention No. 175, Convention No. 138 and Convention No.
177, that states and territories were continuing to investigate their law and practice for
compliance with these instruments. ILAC was advised of the outcome of the eighty-fourth
meeting of the Workplace Relations Ministers’ Council, where the opportunity to progress
ratification of Convention No. 162, Convention No. 175 and Protocol No. 155 in 2010 was
noted.
ILAC was advised that Australia was considered non-compliant with some obligations
under Convention No. 183. Due to the policy of not ratifying conventions unless there is
full compliance, the department advised that it did not consider ratification likely in the
foreseeable future.
In relation to the United Nations International Convention on the Protection of the Rights
of all Migrant Workers and Their Families, ILAC noted that the Australian Government
was in the final stage of its consideration of the convention and had not yet indicated an
intention to ratify.
Questions arising out of reports made to the ILO under Article 22
of the ILO Constitution
In late 2009, in accordance with Article 22 of the ILO Constitution, the Australian
Government submitted reports to the ILO on the following ratified ILO conventions. The
social partners were invited to contribute to these reports before their preparation and
were provided with copies of the final reports.
●
Convention No. 8, Unemployment Indemnity (Shipwreck) Convention, 1920
●
Convention No. 16, Medical Examination of Young Persons (Sea) Convention, 1921
●
Convention No. 22, Seamen’s Articles of Agreement Convention, 1926
●
Convention No. 58, Minimum Age (Sea) Convention (Revised), 1936
266
Annual Report 2009-10
●
Convention No. 69, Certification of Ships’ Cooks Convention, 1946
●
Convention No. 73, Medical Examination (Seafarers) Convention, 1946
●
Convention No. 87, Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise
Convention, 1948
●
Convention No. 92, Accommodation of Crews Convention (Revised), 1949
●
Convention No. 98, Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention, 1949
●
Convention No. 100, Equal Remuneration Convention, 1951
●
Convention No. 111, Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958
●
Convention No. 122, Employment Policy Convention, 1964
●
Convention No. 133, Accommodation of Crews (Supplementary Provisions)
Convention, 1970
●
Convention No. 135, Workers’ Representatives Convention, 1971
●
Convention No. 144, Tripartite Consultation (International Labour Standards)
Convention, 1976
●
Convention No. 150, Labour Administration Convention, 1978
●
Convention No. 158, Termination of Employment Convention, 1982
●
Convention No. 160, Labour Statistics Convention, 1985
●
Convention No. 166, Repatriation of Seafarers Convention (Revised), 1987.
No comments were received from the social partners in relation to the Article 22 reports.
The social partners were also invited to contribute to similar reports, which are due to be
submitted to the ILO in 2010, for the following ratified conventions:
●
Convention No. 29, Forced Labour Convention, 1930
●
Convention No. 42, Workmen’s Compensation (Occupational Diseases) Convention
(Revised), 1934
●
Convention No. 81, Labour Inspection Convention, 1947
●
Convention No. 88, Employment Service Convention, 1948
●
Convention No. 105, Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957
●
Convention, No. 155, Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 1981
267
Annual Report 2009-10
●
Convention No. 159, Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (Disabled Persons)
Convention, 1983
●
Convention No. 182, Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999.
Appendix 5 - Commonwealth involvement in proceedings
before courts and tribunals
This appendix describes matters dealt with by courts or tribunals in 2009–10 that
involved participation by the Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations or funding
provided by the department.
Fair Work Australia
Woolworths Ltd trading as Produce and Recycling Distribution Centre [2010]
FWAFB 1464
Woolworths Ltd brought an appeal against the decision of a single member of Fair Work
Australia (FWA) not to approve the Woolworths Limited—SDAEA Mulgrave Produce and
Recycling Enterprise Agreement 2009–2012. The Minister made a submission in support
of the appeal. The Full Bench of FWA quashed the decision at first instance, finding that
s. 186(6) of the Fair Work Act 2009 does not require persons covered by an enterprise
agreement to agree to submit disputes arising under the agreement to arbitration as a
prerequisite for the approval of the enterprise agreement.
Australian Industry Group [2010] FWAFB 4337
The Australian Industry Group sought to appeal the decision of a single member of FWA
to approve the Dunlop Foams (NSW) Collective Agreement 2009 on the basis that it
contained a term dealing with right of entry that was an ‘unlawful term’ within the
meaning of s. 194(f) of the Fair Work Act 2009. The Minister made a submission in
support of the appeal. The Full Bench of FWA upheld the appeal, finding that the term
was an unlawful term, and quashed the decision approving the agreement. The employer
was invited to provide FWA with a written undertaking about the exercise of right of entry
under the agreement.
Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations [2010] FWAFB 3552
The Minister sought a review, under s. 605 of the Fair Work Act 2009, of the decision of a
single member of FWA to approve the TriMas Operations Waterview Close Collective
Bargaining Agreement 2009 with the inclusion of the model flexibility term. The Minister
sought the review on public interest grounds to ensure the correct application of s. 202
and s. 203 of the Act and resolve any uncertainty about the scope of individual flexibility
arrangements. The Full Bench of FWA upheld the Minister’s application for the review,
concluding that the flexibility term of the agreement was valid and that the model
flexibility term did not apply.
Application by the Australian Municipal, Administrative, Clerical and Services
Union and Others for an Equal Remuneration Order in the Social and Community
Services Industry No. C2010/3131
268
Annual Report 2009-10
On 11 March 2010, the Australian Services Union filed an equal remuneration claim for
social and community services (SACS) workers under the Fair Work Act 2009. The
application seeks significant pay increases for SACS workers. The Minister made a
submission on behalf of the Commonwealth. The matter is listed for hearing before the
Full Bench of FWA in September and October 2010.
Annual Wage Review 2009–10
On 19 March 2010, the Australian Government lodged its initial submission to FWA’s
Annual Wage Review 2009–10. The government’s submission supported a considered real
increase in minimum wages that, at a minimum, reflected cost of living increases since
the previous minimum wage rise. On 14 May 2010, the government lodged a post-budget
submission, which updated the Minimum Wage Panel on the latest budget economic
forecasts as well as relevant budget measures and other data released since the initial
submission was lodged. The panel held consultation hearings with key stakeholders over
three days, beginning on 17 May 2010. Officials from DEEWR and the
Treasury attended the consultation hearings to outline the government’s position. On 3
June 2010, the panel released its decision to set the new National Minimum Wage at
$569.90 per week, or $15 per hour (rounded to the nearest 10 cents), with effect from
the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2010.
Federal Court
In the case of Australian Maritime Officers Union v Sydney Ferries Corporation [2009]
FCAFC 145, the Australian Maritime Officers Union brought an appeal against the decision
of the Federal Court at first instance in Australian Maritime Officers Union v Sydney
Ferries Corporation [2009] FCA 231. The Minister intervened in the appeal to make
submissions about the meaning of the phrase ‘matters pertaining to the employment
relationship’. The Full Court of the Federal Court unanimously upheld the appeal. The Full
Court found that a term of a workplace agreement that required the employer to obtain
income protection insurance for its employees was a matter pertaining to the
employment relationship and therefore not ‘prohibited content’ within the meaning of the
Workplace Relations Regulations 2006. As a consequence, the employer had breached
the agreement by failing to obtain income protection insurance for its employees.
Australian Industrial Relations Commission
During 2009–10, the Australian Government made 12 submissions to the Australian
Industrial Relations Commission as part of the award modernisation process. The
government’s submissions related to the creation and refinement of modern awards,
prior to the commencement of modern awards on 1 January 2010. These submissions
related to both general award modernisation issues, such as transitional provisions, and
issues related to individual occupations and industries. The government also made four
submissions in relation to applications to vary modern awards. These were in respect to
the Nurses Award 2010, the Joinery and Building Trades Award 2010, the Manufacturing
and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2010, the Aged Care Award 2010 and
the Electrical, Electronic and Communications Contracting Award 2010.
269
Annual Report 2009-10
Appendix 6 - advertising and market research
Details of payments made to advertising, market research, polling, media advertising and
direct mail organisations by the department in 2009–10 are listed in tables A6.1, A6.2,
A6.3 and A6.4. Where the total paid is less than $11 200 (inclusive of GST) details have
not been included. This is consistent with section 311A of the Commonwealth Electoral
Act 1918.
Table A6.1 Advertising agencies
Procurement
reference no.
Contract
no.
Organisation
Service provided
23837
80362
Silversun Pictures Pty Ltd
Production of school kits
23554
80811
Singleton Ogilvy and Mather Sydney Design and development of Job Services
Australia communication services
Total $ paid in
2009-10
24 597.54
397 219.27
Total
421 816.81
Table A6.2 Market research and polling organisations
Procurement
reference no.
Contract no.
Organisation
Service provided
24765
81575
Australian Council for
Education Research Limited
Provision of management and business professional
and administrative services*
53 859.00
23578
80290
Bloomberg L. P
Procurement of reference publications and other such
resources
27 942.89
23951
80370
Footprints Market Research
Pty Ltd
The provision of program and policy services*
48 180.00
23204
79900
Hobsons Australia Pty Ltd
Understanding and engaging with international
students
90 750.00
20829
79370-WO001
Inside Story Knowledge
Management
Provision of management and business professional
and administrative services*
88 000.00
20829
79317-WO002
Instinct and Reason Pty Ltd
Conduct research and testing for the Young Workers'
Toolkit*
97 570.00
23155
79871
Intacam Pty Ltd
Defining elements of vocational education and training
71088.00
20829
79341
Open Mind Research Group
Holdings Pty Ltd
Market research services for new employment services
campaign
269 025.88
20829
79319-WO001
Social Compass
Provision of management and business professional
and administrative services*
37 887.00
24859
81566
Universities Australia
Provision of management and business professional
and administrative services*
136 400.00
25111
81706
Wiyanga Pty Ltd
Provision of management and business professional
and administrative services*
16 500.00
25271
81876
Orima Research Pty Ltd
Messages and branding strategies for marketing Child
Care Rebate
Total
Total $ paid in
2009-10
131 632.80
1 068 835.57
* Also reported in Appendix 7 Consultants and consultancy services
270
Annual Report 2009-10
Table A6.3 Media advertising organisations
Procurement
reference no.
Contract no.
Organisation
Service provided
Total $ paid
in 2009-10
23461
79960
Adcorp Australia Ltd
Non-campaign advertising
1028 083.26
24885
81420
Australian Public Service
Commission
Advertising of DEEWR vacancies on APS Jobs
68 973.70
24827
81454
AvantCard Pty Ltd
Procurement of reference publications and other
such resources
16 610.00
9384
76350
HMA Blaze Pty Ltd
Non-campaign advertising
23250
79901
Lookinglass.com Pty Ltd
Messages and branding strategies for marketing
vocational education and training
68 400.00
23539
80390
Lookinglass.com Pty Ltd
Provision of general advertising services*
52 250.00
21102
80964
Telstra Corporation Limited
Provision of information services
912 914.20
23228
80001
Telstra Corporation Ltd
Provision of general advertising services
234 304.40
9451
80302
Universal McCann
Kick Start Apprenticeship campaign
197 036.92
9451
80302
Universal McCann
Advertising placement for the new employment
services campaign
9451
80302
Universal McCann
National Assessment Program Literacy and
Numeracy Testing media campaign
9451
80302
Universal McCann
Brochure to assist GPs in discussions with patients
about the benefits of employment to mental health
313 015.34
2 814
635.00
59 712.01
Total
21944.95
5 787
879.78
* Also reported in Appendix 7 Consultants and consultancy services
Table A6.4 Direct mail organisations
Procurement
reference no.
Contract no.
Organisation
Service provided
Total $ paid
in 2009-10
25341
81911
AvantCard Pty Ltd
Provision of editorial and design and graphic and fine
art services
9398
76368
Blue Star Print Group Australia Printing and related services
Pty Ltd
32 234.81
25273
82195
Mai-Wei Limited
Direct mail out of a brochure to assist GPs in
discussions with patients about the benefits of
employment to mental health
12 052.35
23381
79928
Salmat Holdings Pty Ltd
Print and send mail to respondents of Stepping
Stones: Longitudinal Survey of Employment Services
and Income Support
20 014.13
23381
79928
Salmat Holdings Pty Ltd
Job seeker and employer direct mail for the new
employment services campaign
13 123.00
109 301.63
Total
186 725.92
271
Annual Report 2009-10
Appendix 7 - Consultants and consultancy services
This Appendix provides information on consultancies used by the department in 2009–10.
Summary details are shown according to the executive and departmental structure in
Part 1.
The department’s policy on selecting consultants
The department engages individuals and companies to provide professional services
under contracts for service, taking account of the skills and resources required for the
task, the skills available internally and the cost effectiveness of those options. The
decision to engage a consultant is made in accordance with the Financial Management
and Accountability Act 1997 and related regulations.
Consultancy services are one particular type of service delivered under a contract for
services. They are distinguished from other contracts for services by the nature of the
work performed. A consultant is an entity, whether an individual, a partnership, or a
corporation, engaged to provide professional independent and expert advice or services.
Consultants are typically engaged to investigate or diagnose a defined issue or problem;
carry out defined research reviews or evaluations; or provide independent advice,
information or creative solutions to assist the agency in management decision making.
Summary of active consultancies
During 2009–10, 153 new consultancies were entered into, involving total actual
expenditure of $16 964 476. In addition, 67 ongoing consultancy contracts were active
during 2009–10, involving total actual expenditure of $10 628 469.
Details of consultancies
Table A7.1 provides details of consultancy contracts the department let in 2009–10 and
the value of the contract over the life of the contract. In line with annual reporting
requirements, contracts with a value of less than $10 000 have not been included.
Key to list of consultancies in 2009–10
Selection process
Justification
Open Tender (OT)
A procurement procedure in which a request for tender is published
inviting all businesses that satisfy the conditions for participation to
submit tenders
A Skills currently unavailable within agency
Select Tender (RS)
A procurement procedure in which the procuring agency selects which
potential suppliers are invited to submit tenders in accordance with the
mandatory procurement procedures
B Need for specialised or professional skills
Direct Sourcing (SS)
A procurement process available only under certain defined
circumstances in which an agency may contact a single potential
supplier or suppliers of its choice and for which conditions for direct
sourcing apply under the mandatory procurement procedures
C Need for independent research or
assessment
272
Annual Report 2009-10
Table A7.1 Consultancy contracts let in 2009-10
Group
Procurem Contract
ent
no.
reference
no.
Consultant name
Description
Total contract Selecti Justifica
$ value (GST
on
tion
inclusive) proces
s
Building
25544
the
Education
Revolution
21446
82547
Allen Jack & Cottier
Architects Pty Limited
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
59 400.00
SS
B
81279-WOl
Deloitte Touche Tomatsu Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
70 994.00
OT
B
24420
81074
Walter Turnbull
74 940.00
RS
C
21446
81279-W02
Deloitte Touche Tomatsu Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
77 168.00
OT
B
25620
79513-WOl
KPMG
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
177 705.00
OT
B
25547
82546
Altus Group Cost
Management Pty Ltd
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
350 000.00
SS
B
25621
79514-WOl
Ernst and Young
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
465 410.00
OT
B
The provision of program and policy
services associated with program
evaluation and compliance
Subtotal
1275 617.00
Communic 24561
ation
81094
Cogito Consulting Pty
Ltd
Provision of business advice
33 000.00
SS
B
20829
79341WO002
Open Mind Research
Group Holdings
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
35 890.00
OT
C
23544
80354
Ascent Consulting Pty
Ltd
Assessment of information
management services
66 000.00
RS
B
25139
81785
Salmon Communications Provision of management and
business professional and
Pty Ltd
administrative services
80 000.00
RS
B
24364
81182
Ascent Consulting Pty
Ltd
160 000.00
SS
B
SS
B
14 300.00
ss
B
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
Subtotal
Associate
Secretary
374 890.00
25194
82144
The Work Foundation
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
Subtotal
Digital
Education
Youth and
Transition
s
50 000.00
50 000.00
23977
80575
Sweet Group Pty Ltd
Provision of program and policy
related consultancy services
20829
79362WO002
Dandolo Partners Pty Ltd Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
121 996.00
OT
C
24108
81241
Curriculum Corporation
160 949.69
SS
B
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
273
Annual Report 2009-10
Group
Procurem Contract
ent
no.
reference
no.
Consultant name
Description
24839
81744
Business Aspect
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
166 068.00
RS
C
24407
81256
Curriculum Corporation
The provision of research services
231 243.00
RS
C
OT
B
Subtotal
694 556.69
Director of 20829
the
OECECC
79324WO012
Australian Council for
Education Research
Limited
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
Subtotal
Early
Childhood
Developm
ent
20829
79415WO001
Access Economics
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
500 000.00
OT
B
13932
78348WO001
SMS Management and
Technology
Consultancy for National Quality
Agenda IT scoping phase
528 885.00
OT
B
1 028 885.00
20829
79513WO005
KPMG
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
210 000.00
OT
C
20829
79339WO003
Orima Research Pty Ltd
Research on qualitative developmental
research on communication for early
childhood education and child care
319 629.00
OT
C
Subtotal
Economic
Strategy
529 629.00
25237
81945
Australian National
University
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
55 000.00
SS
B
20829
79350WO001
Anne Markiewicz and
Associates Pty Ltd
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
153 600.00
OT
C
20829
79372WO001
TNS Social Research
t/as Taylor Nelson
Sofres
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
946 000.00
OT
C
Subtotal
Executive
Group
150 200.00
150 200.00
Subtotal
Early
Childhood
Programs
Total contract Selecti Justifica
$ value (GST
on
tion
inclusive) proces
s
1154 600.00
20829
79514WO001
Ernst and Young
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
40 295.19
OT
B
20829
79511WO001
Deloitte Touche Tomatsu Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
41 260.53
OT
C
25264
81836
The Nous Group
52 624.00
OT
A
26 940.00
SS
B
175 000.00
OT
B
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
Subtotal
134 179.72
GeneralEm 25047
ployment
Services
20829
82115
Resolution Consulting
Services Pty
Provision of management and
administrative services in relation to
New Enterprise Incentive Scheme
79374WO002
Colmar Brunton Social
Research
Research Project-Understanding
remote and Indigenous Job seeker
engagement
274
Annual Report 2009-10
Group
Procurem Contract
ent
no.
reference
no.
Consultant name
Description
Subtotal
Higher
Education
201 940.00
24753
81334
University of Melbourne
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
16 500.00
SS
B
20829
79354WO004
Ithaca Group Pty Ltd
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
30 000.00
OT
C
24429
81181
Phillipskpa Pty Ltd
Provision of research services
69 190.00
RS
B
24815
81708
The Australian Council
Provision of management and
for Educational Research business professionals and
Ltd
administrative services
196 915.00
RS
B
24186
80739
Korda Mentha Pty Ltd
1 518 000.00
SS
B
20829
79324WO014
The Australian Council
Provision of research
for Educational Research
77 323.00
OT
B
20829
79361WO006
The Allen Consulting
Group
157 591.00
OT
B
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
Provision of research
Subtotal
Indigenou
s
Pathways
and Early
Learning
Total contract Selecti Justifica
$ value (GST
on
tion
inclusive) proces
s
2 065 519.00
24610
81258
South Australia
Provision of management and
Department of Education business professionals and
and Children's Services administrative services
25 500.00
SS
B
24698
81738
Matthew Ryan
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
34 455.00
RS
B
24424
81251
Australian Council for
Education Research
Provision of program and policy
related consultancy services
49 500.00
SS
B
25259
82194
The Royal Children
Hospital
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
79 618.00
SS
B
20829
79361WO005
Allen Consulting Group
Pty Ltd
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
98 587.00
OT
B
20829
79324WO013
Australian Council for
Education Research
Limited
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
200 962.00
OT
B
20829
79361WO004
Allen Consulting Group
Pty Ltd
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
203 015.00
OT
C
25278
81928
Australian Research
Provision of management and
Alliance for Children and business professionals and
Youth Ltd
administrative services
253 000.00
SS
A
20829
79320WO005
Urbis Pty Ltd
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
544 483.00
OT
C
20829
79340WO003
Atelier Learning
Solutions Pty Ltd
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
580 100.00
OT
C
275
Annual Report 2009-10
Group
Procurem Contract
ent
no.
reference
no.
Consultant name
Description
24688
81856
Australian Institute of
Health and Welfare
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
932 378.70
OT
B
24688
81853
Australian Bureau of
Statistics
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
1 620 000.00
OT
B
Subtotal
4 621598.70
Infrastruct 23565
ure and
Funding
80323
Direction Group Pty Ltd
Expert technical advice on the
application of the Socio- Economic
Status (SES) methodology
15 000.00
SS
B
21446
79546WO001
McGrathnicol Corporate
Advisory
Analysis of stakeholder feedback,
statistical data and amendments to
2009 Financial Health Assessment
Framework
43 725.00
OT
B
22917
80329
SCA Management
Consultants Pty Ltd
Provision of business advice
219 661.23
OT
A
Subtotal
Internatio
nal
278 386.23
24461
80993
Ashby Pastoral
The provision of program and policy
services
20 000.00
SS
B
24950
81645
John Dearn
Provision of market research services
27 949.00
ss
C
25059
81815
NCVER Ltd
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
61 105.00
ss
C
24495
81121
KPMG
Research towards the development of
better risk management
84 176.00
RS
A
20829
79405WO001
Taylor Fry Consulting
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
98 245.00
OT
C
24765
81575
Australian Council for
Education Research
Limited
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
107 718.00
RS
A
20829
79325WO001
Wallis Consulting Group
Pty Ltd
Provision of financial advice
116 770.00
OT
A
24859
81566
Universities Australia
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
170 500.00
SS
A
Subtotal
IT
Services
Total contract Selecti Justifica
$ value (GST
on
tion
inclusive) proces
s
686 463.00
25305
81913
Object Consulting Pty
Ltd
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
12 210.00
SS
B
25133
81721
Vision Australia
Provision of IT consultancy services
17 105.00
SS
B
25026
81629
Vision Australia
Provision of program and policy
related consultancy services
18 150.00
SS
B
24972
81633
Datacom Systems (Act)
Pty Ltd
Provision of IT consultancy services
19 008.00
RS
C
25480
82346
Gibson Quai-AAS Pty Ltd Provision of information technology
consultancy services
27 500.00
SS
C
276
Annual Report 2009-10
Group
Procurem Contract
ent
no.
reference
no.
Consultant name
Description
25527
82486
Oakton AA Services Pty
Ltd
Development of information and
communication technology security
documentation and security
assessment
13932
78469WO008
Deloitte
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
Subtotal
Job
Strategies
Total contract Selecti Justifica
$ value (GST
on
tion
inclusive) proces
s
44 880.00
SS
B
119 350.00
OT
C
258 203.00
20829
79372WO002
TNS Social Research
t/as Taylor Nelson
Sofres
Provision of survey related
consultancy services
40 700.00
OT
B
20829
79313WO001
Enhance Management
Pty Ltd
Survey of Employment Service
providers 2010
42 790.00
OT
B
20829
79380WO002
Curtin University of
Technology
Provision of research
46 125.75
OT
B
20829
79364WO001
Evolution Research Pty
Ltd
Cognitive testing of the Disability
Employment Services post program
monitoring survey questionnaires
48 122.00
OT
B
20829
79314WO005
The Social Research
Centre
Research for the schools enrolment
and attendance measure evaluation
187 452.00
OT
B
20829
79324WO006
The Social Research
Centre
Provision of research Programs
418 685.00
OT
B
Subtotal
783 874.75
Legal and 23041
Investigati
ons
23041
80414
Minter Ellison
Provision of legal services
77 471.68
OT
B
80407
Australian Government
Solicitor
Provision of legal services
232 233.00
OT
B
23041
80409
Blake Dawson
Provision of legal services
675 923.32
OT
B
23041
80410
Clayton Utz
Provision of legal services
786 106.41
OT
B
Subtotal
Lifting
Education
al
Outcomes
1771734.41
24930
81623
CSE Centre for Strategic Provision of strategic consultation
Education
services
23 100.00
SS
B
20829
79319WO001
Social Compass
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
37 887.00
OT
B
23489
80697
Croger Associates Pty
Ltd
Provision of program and policy
related consultancy services
52 800.00
SS
C
20829
79340WO001
Atelier Learning
Solutions Pty Ltd
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
64 658.00
OT
C
20829
79513WO004
KPMG
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
130 570.00
OT
C
20829
79513WO003
KPMG
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
154 741.00
OT
C
24088
80672
Education.Au Limited
Provision of program and policy
related consultancy services
170 067.00
SS
C
277
Annual Report 2009-10
Group
Procurem Contract
ent
no.
reference
no.
Consultant name
Description
20829
79374WO001
Colmar Brunton Social
Research
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
20829
79324WO007
The Australian Council
Economic or financial evaluation of
for Educational Research projects
Ltd
20829
79324WO011
Australian Council for
Educational Research
Ltd
20829
79324WO010
20829
79361WO001
Total contract Selecti Justifica
$ value (GST
on
tion
inclusive) proces
s
400 026.00
OT
C
574 091.00
OT
C
31 636.00
OT
B
The Australian Council
Staff in Australia's Schools Survey
for Educational Research 2010
Ltd
442 712.00
OT
B
The Allen Consulting
Group Pty Ltd
259 858.00
OT
C
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
Subtotal
2 342 146.00
National
23400
Curriculum
,
Assessme 20829
nt and
Reporting
21446
80333
Quantitative Evaluation
& Design Pty Ltd
Provision of program and policy
related consultancy services
11 088.00
RS
B
79380WO001
Curtin University
Analysis of My School Data
12 251.25
OT
A
79556WO001
Walter Turnbull
General accounting and audit services
17 437.50
OT
A
23540
80300
Data Analysis Australia
The provision of programme and
policy services including development,
delivery implementation, promotional
materials and maps
101 812.50
SS
B
SS
B
ss
B
Subtotal
People
Group
142 589.25
25187
81773
HBA Consulting
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
Subtotal
34 650.00
Safety and 25373
Entitlemen
ts Group
82231
National Industrial
Provision of research
Chemicals Notification
and Assessment Scheme
Subtotal
Skills
Australia
Subtotal
34 650.00
11 000.00
11 000.00
20829
79354WO003
Ithaca Group - Rod
McDonald
Vocational Education and Training
(VET) roadmap project initiation,
research, analysis, workshop
preparation, workshop and draft and
finalise report
18 535.00
OT
B
24557
81108
Robyn Penman
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
18 700.00
RS
B
20829
79328WO001
Peter Noonan Consulting Vocational Education and Training
(VET) roadmap project initiation,
research, analysis, workshop
preparation, workshop and draft and
finalise report
86 418.75
OT
B
123 653.75
278
Annual Report 2009-10
Group
Procurem Contract
ent
no.
reference
no.
Social
25379
Innovation
82196
Consultant name
Description
Regina Hill Effective
Consulting Pt
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
Subtotal
Social
Policy
22 708.97
SS
B
61 600.00
SS
A
22 708.97
23987
80891
Monash University
Provision of program and policy
related consultancy services
24586
81188
Australian Institute of
Family Studies
Provision of printing and photographic
and audio and visual material
169 950.00
SS
B
20829
79414WO001
The Australian National
University
Income Support Program substitution
55 000.00
OT
B
OT
C
Subtotal
286 550.00
Specialist 20829
Employme
nt
Services
79415WO002
Access Economics
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
Subtotal
Strategic
Policy
Total contract Selecti Justifica
$ value (GST
on
tion
inclusive) proces
s
125 000.00
125 000.00
24428
80974
Cerberus IT Pty Ltd
Provision of contractors or other
recruitment services
54 000.00
SS
C
20829
79513WO002
KPMG
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
63 800.00
OT
C
24661
81417
The Young Foundation
Investigation of international best
practice to support education and
employment transitions
80 000.00
RS
B
16 500.00
SS
B
Subtotal
197 800.00
Tertiary
25111
Skills and
Productivit
y Group
24476
81706
Wiyanga Pty Ltd
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
81373
Bateman & Giles Pty Ltd Education and training services
19 075.00
ss
B
20829
79513WO007
KPMG
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
55 442.00
OT
B
24942
81507
NCVER Ltd
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
60 500.00
SS
C
24421
81179
Innovation & Business
Skills Aust
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
75 900.00
SS
B
20829
79361WO003
Aliens Consulting Group
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
102 080.50
OT
C
20829
79372WO003
TNS Social Research
t/as Taylor Nelson
Sofres
Research for workforce development
outcomes
102 300.00
OT
B
20829
79513WO001
KPMG
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
167 530.92
OT
C
279
Annual Report 2009-10
Group
Procurem Contract
ent
no.
reference
no.
Consultant name
Description
24871
81667
GHD Pty Ltd
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
180 235.00
SS
B
20829
79513WO006
KPMG
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
213 197.00
OT
C
20829
79513WO010
KPMG
Strengthening the Australian Quality
Training Framework
291 950.00
OT
B
Subtotal
Total contract Selecti Justifica
$ value (GST
on
tion
inclusive) proces
s
1284 710.42
Workplace 24741
Relations
Implement
ation
20829
81303
Chamberlains Law Firm
Pty Limited
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
79 000.00
SS
A
79317WO002
Instinct and Reason Pty
Ltd
Conduct research and testing for the
Young Workers' Toolkit
97 570.00
OT
C
23937
81350
Mercer (Australia) Pty
Ltd
Provision of research
1 435 000.00
OT
C
Subtotal
1611570.00
Workplace 24215
Relations
Legal
25377
80738
Piper Alderman
Management
Provision of legal services
11 440.00
SS
B
82209
Malcolm Harding
Provision of legal services
66 000.00
SS
B
AGS3252
Australian Government
Solicitor
Provision of legal services
358 340.99
OT
B
Subtotal
435 780.99
Workplace 20829
Relations
Policy
79348WO001
Society for Knowledge
Economics
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
66 000.00
OT
B
20829
79415WO003
Access Economics
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
95 750.00
OT
B
Subtotal
Youth and
Industry
Skills
161 750.00
20829
79382WO001
Flinders University
Provision of research
11 818.26
OT
B
25014
81690
The Nous Group
Education and training services
29 260.00
SS
B
23931
80343
The Churchill
Consultancy
Provision of general advertising
services
40 000.00
RS
B
23951
80370
Footprints Market
Research Pty Ltd
The provision of program and policy
services
48 180.00
SS
C
23539
80390
Lookinglass.Com Pty Ltd Provision of general advertising
services
60 350.89
RS
C
24843
81817
Wignall Consulting
Services Pty Ltd
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
79 000.00
RS
C
24640
81302
Wilton Hanford Hanover
Provision of editorial and design and
graphic and fine art services
79 086.00
RS
B
280
Annual Report 2009-10
Group
Procurem Contract
ent
no.
reference
no.
Consultant name
Description
23947
80692
John Ramsay and
Associates
The provision of program and policy
services
80 000.00
RS
B
23948
80693
David O'Connor
The provision of program and policy
services
80 000.00
RS
C
23946
80694
P 1 Research Pty Ltd
The provision of program and policy
services
80 000.00
RS
C
20829
79370WO001
Inside Story Knowledge
Management
Provision of management and
business professionals and
administrative services
88 000.00
OT
A
20829
79513WO009
KPMG
Provision of research
109 700.00
OT
B
20829
79320WO004
Urbis Pty Ltd
Provision for research
136 906.00
OT
C
20829
79354WO002
Ithaca Group Pty Ltd
Management of business professionals
and administrative services
198 000.00
OT
C
12270
77722WO001
Stenning and Associates Research and consultation for stage
two occupations in the Council of
Pty Ltd
Australian Governments (COAG) skills
recognition process
350 000.00
OT
B
21446
81267WO002
Price Waterhouse
Coopers
270 900.76
OT
B
Subtotal
Total
Total contract Selecti Justifica
$ value (GST
on
tion
inclusive) proces
s
Provision of general audit services
1741201.91
24 581387.79
This table shows the list of consultancy contracts let in over the period 2009-2010. The
total contract value of all combined (GST inclusive) was $24,581,387.79.
Appendix 8 - Errors in the 2008–09 annual report
This appendix details and corrects errors found in the department’s 2008–09 annual
report.
Outcome 2—Schools
On page 38, under ‘Key achievements’ the third dot point should have referred to the
‘National Education Agreement’ not the ‘National Education Association’.
On page 59, under ‘School Languages Program’ the final sentence of the second-last
paragraph should have read ‘In 2009, an initial amount of $12.334 million will be
provided to non-government schools.’
Outcome 3—Higher education
On page 96, the first sentence of the second-last paragraph should have read ‘$402
million will be made available for structural adjustment, of which $400 million will be
provided to support significant structural change across the sector, which could include
the creation of new models of higher education institutions, and collaborations between
281
Annual Report 2009-10
higher education providers and vocational education and training providers, and $2
million will be departmental funding to support the program.’
Outcome 4—Vocational education and training
On page 105, in Table 4.2, under ‘Language, Literacy and Numeracy’ the actual number
of individuals assisted should have been 17 939 not 15 710.
Outcome 7—Labour market assistance
On page 149, in Table 7.4, under ‘New Enterprise Incentive Scheme’ the figure for the
proportion of job seekers off benefit 3 and 12 months following participation in
Employment Services in New Enterprise Incentive Scheme should have been 77.1% not
71.7%.
On page 153, under ‘Widow Allowance’ a sentence stating ‘In June 2009 there were 36
086 recipients of Widow Allowance, a decrease of 7.8 per cent since June 2008, when
there were 39 132 recipients.’ should have been included as the third paragraph.
Outcome 8—Workforce participation
On page 187, under ‘Jobless families’ the dollar amount in the last sentence should have
been $7.2 million, not $7.3 million.
Part 3—Management and accountability
On page 262, under ‘State Network’ the third sentence of the first paragraph should have
read ‘Through its extensive network of offices across Australia the department has a
presence in all capital cities and 41 regional locations, either in DEEWR regional offices
(of which there are 22) or in Indigenous Coordination Centres managed by the
Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs.’
Appendix 1—Commonwealth Disability Strategy
On page 274, the final paragraph (‘Accessible electronic formats include ASCII (or .txt)
files and html for the web. Non-electronic accessible formats include Braille, audio
cassette, large print and easy English. The department also makes information accessible
through video captioning and Auslan interpreters.’) should not have been included.
Appendix 3—Freedom of information
On page 291, in the dot point beginning ‘Schools Assistance Act 2008’, the name
‘Languages Program’ should have read ‘School Languages Program’.
282
Annual Report 2009-10
Appendix 9 - Agency resource statements and resources
for Outcomes
Agency Resource Statement – 2009-10
283
Annual Report 2009-10
Agency Resource Statement – 2009-10
Outcome 1
Outcome 1
Budget (2009-10)
$'000
Actual expenses
Variation
(2009-10) $'000
(2009-10) $'000
A
B
A-B
350,592
332,232
-18,360
53,158
45,738
-7,420
403,750
377,970
-25,780
Administered expenses
Program 1.1: Support for the Child Care System
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Child Care Services Support
Jobs Education and Training (JET) Child Care Fee Assistance
Total for Program 1.1
Program 1.2: Child Care Fee Assistance
Special Appropriations
284
Annual Report 2009-10
Outcome 1
Budget (2009-10)
$'000
Actual expenses
Variation
(2009-10) $'000
(2009-10) $'000
A
B
A-B
Child Care Benefit
1,947,756
2,000,062
52,306
Child Care Rebate
1,251,134
1,304,429
53,295
Total for Program 1.2
3,198,890
3,304,491
105,601
3,000
2,925
-75
3,000
2,925
-75
406,750
380,895
-25,855
-
-
-
3,198,890
3,304,491
105,601
-
-
-
86,427
94,226
7,799
Revenues from independent sources (Section 31)
-
661
661
Special Appropriations
-
-
-
Special Accounts
-
-
-
292
561
269
-
-
-
3,692,359
3,780,834
88,475
498
503
5
Budget (2009-10)
$'000
Actual expenses
(2009-10) $'000
Variation (2009-10)
$'000
A
B
A-B
Administered expenses
-
-
-
Special Appropriations
-
-
-
Total for Program 2.1
-
-
-
A New Tax System (Family Assistance) (Administration) Act 1999
Program 1.3: Early Childhood Education
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Early Childhood Education—Universal Access
Total for Program 1.3
Outcome 1 Totals by appropriation type
Administered expenses
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Other services (Appropriation Bill No. 2)
Special Appropriations
Special Accounts
Departmental expenses
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Expenses not requiring appropriation in the Budget year
Depreciation expense not funded by Appropriation
Total for Outcome 1
Average staffing level (number)
Outcome 2
Outcome 2
Administered expenses
Program 2.1: Government Schools National Support
Program 2.2: Non-government Schools National Support
285
Annual Report 2009-10
Outcome 2
Budget (2009-10)
$'000
Actual expenses
(2009-10) $'000
Variation (2009-10)
$'000
A
B
A-B
6,473,622
6,463,523
-10,099
154,774
165,488
10,714
6,628,396
6,629,011
615
20,810
20,801
-9
Grants and Awards
3,925
3,835
-90
Framework for Open Learning
3,170
3,406
236
National Student Aptitude Test for Tertiary Admission
4,623
231
-4,392
Supplementary Funding for School Operations
4,000
4,000
-
Drought Assistance for Schools
20,066
12,906
-7,160
National School Chaplaincy Program
57,784
57,078
-706
5,171
5,160
-11
Local Schools Working Together
25,000
24,238
-762
Quality Outcomes
72,203
73,354
1,151
Indigenous Education
17,700
12,932
-4,768
-
16,070
16,070
234,452
234,013
-439
105,880
54,245
-51,635
Australian Technical Colleges (Non-government)
82,852
55,142
-27,710
Australian Technical Colleges (Government)
52,876
63,136
10,260
241,608
172,523
-69,085
95,070
82,269
-12,801
95,070
82,269
-12,801
Special Appropriations
Schools Assistance Act 2008
Indigenous Education (Targeted Assistance) Act 2000
Total for Program 2.2
Program 2.3: Schools Support
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
National Asian Languages and Studies in Schools
Helping Children with Autism
CDEP Transitions
Total for Program 2.3
Program 2.4: Trade Training
Other Services (Appropriation Bill No 2)
Trade Training Centres (Non-government)
Special Appropriations:
Australian Technical Colleges (Flexibility in Achieving
Australia's Skills Needs) Act 2005
Total for Program 2.4
Program 2.5: Digital Education Revolution
Other Services (Appropriation Bill No 2)
Digital Education Revolution (Non-government)
Total for Program 2.5
Program 2.6: National Action Plan on Literacy and Numeracy
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
286
Annual Report 2009-10
Outcome 2
National Action Plan on Literacy and Numeracy (NonGovernment)
Total for Program 2.6
Budget (2009-10)
$'000
Actual expenses
(2009-10) $'000
Variation (2009-10)
$'000
A
B
A-B
12,909
11,516
-1,393
12,909
11,516
-1,393
2,837,400
2,944,229
106,829
2,837,400
2,944,229
106,829
Program 2.7: Education Infrastructure
(referred to as Building the Education Revolution)
Other Services (Appropriation Bill No 2)
Building the Education Revolution (Non-government)
Total for Program 2.7
Program 2.8: Smarter Schools- Low SES School Communities National Partnership
Administered expenses
-
-
-
Special Appropriations
-
-
-
Total for Program 2.8
-
-
-
1,560
1,464
-96
1,560
1,464
-96
Careers, Transitions and Partnerships
69,924
68,489
-1,435
Youth Attainment and Transitions NP
57,909
57,708
-201
Youth Engagement
11,756
12,692
936
240
39
-201
139,829
138,927
-902
127,796
136,467
8,671
68,417
62,591
-5,826
5
1
-4
196,218
199,059
2,841
388,510
385,880
-2,630
Program 2.9: Smarter Schools- Improving Teacher Quality National Partnership
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Teacher Quality (Non government—NP)
Total for Program 2.9
Program 2.10: Youth Support
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Special Account Expenses:
National Youth Affairs Research Scheme Special Account
Total for Program 2.10
Program 2.11: School Student Assistance
Special Appropriations
Student Assistance Act 1973
ABSTUDY—Secondary
Assistance for Isolated Children
Special Account Expenses:
Superannuation Payments for ATAS Tutors
Total for Program 2.11
Outcome 2 Totals by appropriation type
Administered expenses
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
287
Annual Report 2009-10
Outcome 2
Budget (2009-10)
$'000
Actual expenses
(2009-10) $'000
Variation (2009-10)
$'000
A
B
A-B
Other services (Appropriation Bill No. 2)
3,038,350
3,080,743
42,393
Special Appropriations
6,960,337
6,946,348
-13,989
245
41
-204
182,478
162,303
-20,175
Revenues from independent sources (Section 31)
-
1,888
1,888
Special Appropriations
-
-
-
Special Accounts
-
-
-
292
963
671
-
-
-
10,570,212
10,578,165
7,953
1,047
1,036
-11
Special Accounts
Departmental expenses
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Expenses not requiring appropriation in the Budget year
Depreciation expense not funded by Appropriation
Total for Outcome 2
Average staffing level (number)
This table shows the budgeted funds and actual expenditure towards achieving outcome
2 between 2009-2010. The budgeted funds totalled $10,570,212,000, while the actual
expenses amounted to $12,078,224,000.
Outcome 3
Outcome 3
Budget (2009-10)
$'000
Actual expenses
(2009-10) $'000
Variation (2009-10)
$'000
A
B
A-B
4,209
3,717
-492
296
120
-176
5,940
5,948
8
84
83
-1
-
-
-
4,563,826
4,550,510
-13,316
-
-
-
28,198
27,758
-440
Administered expenses
Program 3.1: Higher Education Support
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency
Indigenous Higher Education Advisory Council
Higher Education Special Projects
Superannuation Payments for Former Commissioners
Centre for Finance and International Regulation
Special Appropriations
Higher Education Support Act 2003
Commonwealth Grant Scheme
Performance Funding
Funding to Support Low SES Participation
288
Annual Report 2009-10
Outcome 3
Budget (2009-10)
$'000
Actual expenses
(2009-10) $'000
Variation (2009-10)
$'000
A
B
A-B
Equity Programmes
12,017
11,613
-404
Indigenous Support Program
35,141
35,132
-10
Diversity and Structural Adjustment
49,006
45,458
-3,548
228,324
905,411
677,087
30,773
30,739
-34
273
273
-
National Institutes
178,079
178,080
1
Commonwealth Scholarships
130,388
104,158
-26,230
68,208
64,574
-3,634
808,599
808,599
-
6,143,361
6,772,173
628,812
1,464,039
672,632
-791,407
1,464,039
672,632
-791,407
63,617
62,682
-935
339,438
343,385
3,947
Youth Allowance
2,212,287
2,073,383
-138,904
Fares Allowance
1,107
660
-447
2,616,449
2,480,111
-136,338
2,875
2,194
-681
2,875
2,194
-681
Superannuation Program—Higher Education1
Quality Initiatives
Open Learning Initiative
Higher Education Special Projects (Capital Development
Pool)
Special Accounts
Education Investment Fund
Total for Program 3.1
Program 3.2: HELP
Special Appropriations
Higher Education Support Act 2003
Higher Education Loan Programmes (HELP)1
Total for Program 3.2
Program 3.3:Tertiary Student Assistance
Special Appropriations
Student Assistance Act 1973
ABSTUDY—Tertiary
Social Security Act 1991
Austudy
Total for Program 3.3
Program 3.4: Vocational Education and Training
Special Appropriations
Skilling Australia's Workforce Act 2005
Vocational Education and Training Recurrent Funding
Total for Program 3.4
Program 3.5: VET National Support
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
289
Annual Report 2009-10
Outcome 3
Budget (2009-10)
$'000
Actual expenses
(2009-10) $'000
Variation (2009-10)
$'000
A
B
A-B
641
641
-
Australian Appreticeship Centres
196,796
194,319
-2,477
Support for New Apprentices
951,211
899,865
-51,346
Australian Apprenticeship Workforce Skills Development
410,239
291,335
-118,904
Australian Apprenticeship Access Program
199,531
197,025
-2,506
-
-
-
271,500
271,519
19
28,724
28,724
-
2,058,642
1,883,429
-175,213
37,260
32,251
-5,009
757
759
2
6,220
6,220
-
44,237
39,230
-5,007
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
2,084,684
1,897,583
-180,881
Special Appropriations
9,407,596
9,114,863
-298,953
837,323
837,323
-
162,865
176,730
13,865
10,700
21,296
10,596
-
-
-
Special Accounts
11,082
9,412
-1,670
Expenses not requiring appropriation in the Budget year
16,293
21,018
4,725
-
-
-
12,530,543
12,078,224
-452,319
1,098
1,115
17
National Centre for Vocational Education Research
My Training
VET Teaching and Learning Capital Fund
Special Accounts
Education Investment Fund
Total for Program 3.5
Program 3.6: International Education Support
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
International Education and Training
Assessment Subsidy for Overseas Trained Professionals
Special Appropriations
Higher Education Support Act 2003
Higher Education Contribution to Australian Education
International
Total for Program 3.6
Outcome 3 Totals by appropriation type
Administered expenses
Special Accounts
Departmental expenses
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Revenues from independent sources (Section 31)
Special Appropriations
Depreciation expense not funded by Appropriation
Total for Outcome 3
Average staffing level (number)
1 Actual expenses relate to actuarial assessments of the value of assets and liabilities. The outcome is
dependent on numerous factors that cannot be reliably forecast.
290
Annual Report 2009-10
This table shows the budgeted funds and actual expenditure towards achieving outcome
3 between 2009-2010. The budgeted funds totalled $12,530,543,000, while the actual
expenses amounted to $10,578,165,000.
Outcome 4
Outcome 4
Budget (2009-10)
$'000
Actual expenses
(2009-10) $'000
Variation (2009-10)
$'000
A
B
A-B
1,310,294
1,353,746
43,452
Job Capacity Assessment
185,748
195,237
9,489
Jobs Fund
108,800
99,059
-9,741
National Green Jobs Corps
18,860
11,974
-6,886
Productive Ageing Package
13
16
3
7,500
3,921
-3,579
1,631,215
1,663,953
32,738
139,460
133,251
-6,209
139,460
133,251
-6,209
Employment Assistance and Other Services
253,703
296,409
42,706
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
158,011
161,613
3,602
Disability Employment Services
299,959
227,718
-72,241
711,673
685,740
-25,933
334
16
-318
-
-134
-134
122,392
123,983
1,591
Newstart Allowance
6,233,131
6,136,811
-96,320
Parenting Payment (Single)
4,394,628
4,389,343
-5,285
Parenting Payment (Partnered)
1,092,089
1,077,780
-14,309
Administered expenses
Program 4.1: Employment Services
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Job Services Australia
Insulation Workers Support
Total for Program 4.1
Program 4.2: Indigenous Employment
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Indigenous Employment Program
Total for Program 4.2
Program 4.3: Disability Employment Services
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Total for Program 4.3
Program 4.4: Working Age Payments
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Compensation and Debt Relief
Special Appropriations
Social Security (Administration) Act 1999
Mature Age Allowance
Mobility Allowance
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Outcome 4
Budget (2009-10)
$'000
Actual expenses
(2009-10) $'000
Variation (2009-10)
$'000
A
B
A-B
37,426
37,279
-147
243,440
243,372
-68
Pensioner Education Supplement
75,243
79,350
4,107
Sickness Allowance
84,564
83,662
-902
Utilities Allowance
26,443
28,247
1,804
Widow Allowance
442,845
441,134
-1,711
Youth Allowance (other)
670,316
715,986
45,670
13,422,851
13,356,829
-66,022
6,805
5,911
-894
Asbestos related claims Act 2005—s8(2)
23,394
23,391
-3
Safety, Rehabilitation & Compensation Act—s90D
47,997
41,000
-6,997
78,196
70,302
-7,894
2,489,487
2,488,871
-616
13,493,908
13,421,204
-72,704
-
-
-
391,319
387,023
-4,296
Revenues from independent sources (Section 31)
-
1,379
1,379
Special Accounts
-
-
-
293
2,275
1,982
-
-
-
16,375,007
16,300,751
-74,256
2,374
2,373
-1
Partner Allowance (Benefit)
Partner Allowance (Pension)
Total for Program 4.4
Program 4.5: Compensation Payments
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Comcare
Special Appropriations
Total for Program 4.5
Outcome 4 Totals by appropriation type
Administered expenses
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Special Appropriations
Special Accounts
Departmental expenses
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Expenses not requiring appropriation in the Budget year
Depreciation expense not funded by Appropriation
Total for Outcome 4
Average staffing level (number)
This table shows the budgeted funds and actual expenditure towards achieving outcome
4 between 2009-2010. The budgeted funds totalled $16,375,007,000, while the actual
expenses amounted to $16,300,751,000.
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Outcome 5
Outcome 5
Budget (2009-10)
$'000
Actual expenses
(2009-10) $'000
Variation (2009-10)
$'000
A
B
A-B
170,000
154,111
-15,889
250
63
-187
96,753
99,242
2,489
267,003
253,416
-13,587
Protected Action Ballots Scheme
1,600
1,137
-463
Small Business Work and Family Grants Program
1,214
846
-368
Home Workers Code of Practice Program
1,000
975
-25
International Labour Organisation—Subscription
8,211
8,219
8
Fair Work Education and Information Campaign
17,344
15,113
-2,231
-
100
100
29,369
26,389
-2,980
Administered expenses
Program 5.1: Employee Assistance
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
General Employee Entitlements and Redundancy Scheme
Unlawful Termination Assistance Scheme
Special Appropriations
Coal Mining Industry (LSL) Funding Act 1992
Total for Program 5.1
Program 5.2: Workplace Assistance
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Ex-gratia payment
Total for Program 5.2
Program 5.3: Parlaimentarians' and Judicial Office Holders' Remuneration and Entitlements
Special Appropriations
Remuneration Tribunal Act 1973—s7(13) Remuneration
(including salary) or allowances
22,815
23,338
523
Remuneration and Allowances Act 1990
20,294
19,474
-820
43,109
42,812
-297
199,619
180,563
-19,056
-
-
-
139,862
142,054
2,192
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
26,537
63,499
36,962
Revenues from independent sources (Section 31)
42,536
20,997
-21,539
-
-
-
292
1,134
842
Total for Program 5.3
Outcome 5 Totals by appropriation type
Administered expenses
Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Bill No 1)
Other services (Appropriation Bill No. 2)
Special Appropriations
Departmental expenses
Special Accounts
Expenses not requiring appropriation in the Budget year
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Outcome 5
Depreciation expense not funded by Appropriation
Total for Outcome 5
Average staffing level (number)
Budget (2009-10)
$'000
Actual expenses
(2009-10) $'000
Variation (2009-10)
$'000
A
B
A-B
-
-
-
408,846
408,247
-599
483
493
10
This table shows the budgeted funds and actual expenditure towards achieving outcome 5
between 2009-2010. The budgeted funds totalled $408,846,000, while the actual expenses
amounted to $408,247,000.
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Clockwise from top left:
1.
COAG endorsed a new Green Skills Agreement in December 2009 that enables
individuals and businesses to contribute to a sustainable, low-carbon economy in
their workplaces and communities. The Hon Julia Gillard MP, former Minister for
Education, at the Green Skills Forum with Anthony Fernando, DEEWR Workforce
Development Branch and Camille Carroll, Climate Change and Green Skills
Taskforce.
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Annual Report 2009-10
2.
Blocky, the wonder horse of the DEEWR national office Christmas party costume
competition, took the reins in April 2010 and got together with Higher Education
Group to donate $1100 to the Canberra RSPCA.
3.
Congratulations to the DEEWR soccer team for winning the 2009 Public Service
Football Association competition for the second consecutive year. The grand final
saw the DEEWR side battle it out with the Department of the Environment, Water,
Heritage and the Arts, which DEEWR went on to win 3–1.
4.
DEEWR’s 2009 Christmas card design competition was won by the Hunter Northern
NSW Region. The beautiful winning design was coordinated by Aboriginal artist and
DEEWR staff member Jenny Hayes as part of NAIDOC celebrations. Staff members
placed their handprints on the canvas as a symbol of regional unity representing the
department’s role in striving for reconciliation across the vast area represented by
the Newcastle, Coffs Harbour, Wyong, Lismore and Kempsey offices.
5.
NAIDOC Week, from 5 to 12 July 2009, was the annual celebration by all Australians
of the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
peoples and DEEWR offices Australia-wide organised events to celebrate. Pictured is
staff member Betty Doolan raising the flag at National Office.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Part 5 – Financial performance reporting
Independent Auditor's Report
297
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Annual Report 2009-10
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Financial statements
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
for the period ended 30 June 2010
The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
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Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
BALANCE SHEET
as at 30 June 2010
The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
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Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
as at 30 June 2010
1
The adjustment for errors relates to an adjustment to the appropriation receivable balance to align the balance
with the Appropriations Cash Management system maintained by the Department of Finance and Deregulation.
The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
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Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
CASH FLOW STATEMENT
for the period ended 30 June 2010
The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
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Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
SCHEDULE OF COMMITMENTS
as at 30 June 2010
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NB: Commitments are GST inclusive where relevant.
1 Operating leases included are effectively non-cancellable and comprise:
Nature of lease
General description of leasing arrangement
Leases for office accommodation
Lease payments are subject to periodic market
value or indexed increases.
Sub lease revenue for office
accommodation
Vacant office space is sub leased where possible.
The total of future minimum lease payments
expected to be received over the next five years is
$14,040,721 including GST.
Agreement for provision of motor vehicles No contingent rentals exist. There are no renewal
to senior executive officers
or purchase options available to the department.
2
IT commitments include contracts for data services, IT software licensing and hardware maintenance
agreements.
3
Other commitments include a range of contracts such as fees for provision of services.
The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
SCHEDULE OF CONTINGENCIES
as at 30 June 2010
Details of each class of contingent liabilities and contingent assets listed above are disclosed in Note 11:
Contingent Liabilities and Assets, along with information on significant remote contingencies and contingencies
that cannot be quantified.
The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
SCHEDULE OF ASSET ADDITIONS
as at 30 June 2010
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Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
SCHEDULE OF ADMINISTERED ITEMS
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Annual Report 2009-10
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NB: All commitments are GST inclusive where relevant.
The value of commitments is determined based on expected value of services contracted, but yet to be
performed under the agreement.
1
Goods and services contracts include amounts relating to consultancies.
2
Legislative obligations relate to amounts specified in the legislation where a funding determination has not yet
been made, comprising the Higher Education Support Act 2003 and Schools Assistance Act 2008.
The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Details of each class of contingent liabilities and contingent assets in the above table are disclosed in Note 20:
Administered Contingent Assets and Liabilities, along with information on remote contingencies and
contingences that cannot be quantified.
The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace
Relations Notes To And Forming Part Of The Financial
Statements
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
1.1 Objectives of DEEWR
The Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (the department) is
an Australian Government controlled entity.
The department provides advice to the Government and administers programs to achieve
the Government’s objectives for education, employment and workplace relations. The
department works in partnership with the states and territories, non-government
authorities, providers and industry.
For 2009-10 the department’s structure changed from nine outcomes to five outcomes.
The transition from the old outcome structure to the new outcome structure is outlined in
detail in Table 1.4 – Transition from outcomes and outputs to outcomes and programs on
page 38 of the 2009-10 Portfolio Budget Statement.
A high level mapping of the department’s old outcome structure to the new outcome
structure is show in the table below.
Outcome structure - 2009-10 Financial Year
Outcome Structure - 2008-09 Financial Year
Outcome 1: Early Childhood Education and Child Care
Outcome 1: Early Childhood Education and Child Care
Outcome 2: School Education
Outcome 2: School Education
Outcome 3: Tertiary, Youth and International
Outcome 3: Higher Education
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Annual Report 2009-10
Outcome 3: Tertiary, Youth and International
Outcome 4: Vocational Education and Training
Outcome 2: School Education
Outcome 5: Transitions and Youth
Outcome 3: Tertiary, Youth and International
Outcome 6: International Influence
Outcome 4: Employment
Outcome 7: Labour Market Assistance
Outcome 4: Employment
Outcome 8: Workforce Participation
Outcome 5: Workplace Relations
Outcome 9: Workplace Relations
The continued existence of the department in its present form and with its present
programs is dependent on Government policy and on continuing appropriations by
Parliament for the department’s administration and programs.
The department’s activities contributing toward these outcomes are classified as either
departmental or administered. Departmental activities involve the use of assets,
liabilities, income and expenses controlled or incurred by the department in its own right.
Administered activities involve the management or oversight by the department, on
behalf of the Government, of items controlled or incurred by the Government.
1.2 Basis of Preparation of the Financial Statements
The financial statements are required by section 49 of the Financial Management and
Accountability Act 1997 and are general purpose financial statements.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with:
●
Finance Minister’s Orders (or FMOs) for reporting periods ending on or after 1 July
2009; and
●
Australian Accounting Standards and Interpretations issued by the Australian
Accounting Standards Board (AASB) that apply for the reporting period.
The financial statements have been prepared on an accrual basis and are in accordance
with the historical cost convention, except for certain assets and liabilities at fair value.
Except where stated, no allowance is made for the effect of changing prices on the
results or the financial position.
The financial statements are presented in Australian dollars and values are rounded to
the nearest thousand dollars unless otherwise specified.
Unless an alternative treatment is specifically required by an accounting standard or the
FMOs, assets and liabilities are recognised in the balance sheet when and only when it is
probable that future economic benefits will flow to the department or a future sacrifice of
economic benefits will be required and the amounts of the assets or liabilities can be
reliably measured. However, assets and liabilities arising under Agreements Equally
Proportionately Unperformed are not recognised unless required by an accounting
standard. Liabilities and assets that are unrecognised are reported in the schedule of
commitments or the schedule of contingencies.
Unless alternative treatment is specifically required by an accounting standard, income
and expenses are recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income when and only
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Annual Report 2009-10
when the flow, consumption or loss of economic benefits has occurred and can be reliably
measured.
Administered revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities and cash flows reported in the
Schedule of Administered Items and related notes are accounted for on the same basis
and using the same policies as for departmental items, except where otherwise stated at
Note 1.20.
1.3 Significant Accounting Judgements and Estimates
In the process of applying the accounting policies listed in this note, the department has
made the following judgements that have the most significant impact on the amounts
recorded in the financial statements:
●
●
The value of the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) receivable is calculated
each year by actuarial assessment. The two main measures impacting on the
calculation of the HELP asset are the face value of debt not expected to be repaid
and the fair value of the remaining receivable, calculated as the present value of
projected future cash flows. The discount rate used to calculate the present value of
the projected future cash flows for the 2009-10 financial statements was changed
from 6% to the 10 year government bond rate as at the reporting date (5.2%). A
comparison of the value of the receivable using the different discount rates is
provided in the table below.
HELP
Receivable Discount rate
2009-10
$m
HELP
Receivable Discount rate
2008-09
$m
5.2%
13,708
5.6°%
11,634
6.0%
13,203
6.0°%
11,463
The fair value of the Provision for Unfunded University Superannuation (2009-10
$5.039 billion) is calculated annually by actuarial assessment. The provision is
valued in accordance with the requirements of AASB 119, Employee Benefits. The
discount rate used is the 10 year government bond rate as at the reporting date.
The prevailing rate as at 30 June 2010 is 5.2% (2008-09: 5.6%).
No other accounting assumptions or estimates have been identified that have a
significant risk of causing a material adjustment to carrying amounts of assets and
liabilities within the next accounting period.
1.4 New Australian Accounting Standards
Adoption of New Australian Accounting Standard Requirements
No accounting standard has been adopted earlier than the application date as stated in
the standard.
The following revised standards that were issued prior to the signing of the Statement by
the Chief Executive and Chief Finance Officer and are applicable to the current reporting
period did not have a financial impact, and are not expected to have a future financial
impact on the entity:
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
AASB 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures
●
AASB 101 Presentation of Financial Statements
●
AASB 116 Property, Plant and Equipment
●
AASB 1048 Interpretation of Standards
Future Australian Accounting Standard Requirements
The following new standards, revised standards, amending standards were issued by the
Australian Accounting Standards Board prior to the signing of the Statement by the Chief
Executive and Chief Finance Officer, are not expected to have a financial impact on the
entity:
●
AASB 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures
●
AASB 9 Financial Instruments
●
AASB 124 Related Party Disclosures
●
AASB 1053 Application of Tiers of Australian Accounting Standards
●
AASB 2009-11 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 9
[AASB 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 101, 102, 108, 112, 118, 121, 127, 128, 131, 132, 136, 139,
1023 & 1038 and Interpretations 10 & 12]
●
AASB 2010-2 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from
Reduced Disclosure Requirements
1.5 Revenue
Revenue from Government
Amounts appropriated for departmental outputs for the year (adjusted for any formal
additions and reductions) are recognised as revenue when the department gains control
of the appropriation, except for certain amounts that relate to activities that are
reciprocal in nature, in which case revenue is recognised only when it has been earned.
Appropriations receivable are recognised at their nominal amounts.
Other types of revenue
●
Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when:
●
the risks and rewards of ownership have been transferred to the buyer;
●
the department retains no managerial involvement or effective control over the
goods;
●
the revenue and transaction costs incurred can be reliably measured; and
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
it is probable that the economic benefits associated from the transaction will flow to
the department.
Revenue from rendering of services is recognised by reference to the stage of completion
of contracts at the reporting date. The revenue is recognised when:
●
the amount of revenue, stage of completion and transaction costs incurred can be
reliably measured; and
●
the probable economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow to the
department.
The stage of completion of contracts at the reporting date is determined by reference to
the proportion that costs incurred to date bear to the estimated total costs of the
transaction.
Receivables for goods and services, which have 30 day terms, are recognised at the
nominal amounts due less any impairment allowance account. Collectability of debts is
reviewed at end of reporting period. Allowances are made when collectability of the debt
is no longer probable.
1.6 Gains
Resources received free of charge
Resources received free of charge are recognised as gains when, and only when, a fair
value can be reliably determined and the services would have been purchased if they had
not been donated. Use of those resources is recognised as an expense.
Contributions of assets at no cost of acquisition or for nominal consideration are
recognised as gains at their fair value when the asset qualifies for recognition, unless
received from another Government agency or authority as a consequence of a
restructuring of administrative arrangements (Refer to Note 1.7).
Resources received free of charge are recorded as either revenue or gains depending on
their nature.
Sale of assets
Gains from disposal of assets are recognised when control of the asset has passed to the
buyer.
1.7 Transactions with the Government as Owner
Equity injections
Amounts appropriated which are designated as ‘equity injections’ for a year (less any
formal reductions) are recognised directly in contributed equity in that year.
Restructuring of administrative arrangements
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Annual Report 2009-10
Net assets received from, or relinquished to, another Australian Government agency or
authority under a restructuring of administrative arrangements are adjusted at their book
value directly against contributed equity.
Other distributions to Owners
The FMOs require that distributions to owners be debited to contributed equity unless in
the nature of a dividend.
1.8 Employee Benefits
Liabilities for ‘short-term employee benefits’ (as defined in AASB 119 Employee Benefits)
and termination benefits due within twelve months of end of reporting period are
measured at their nominal amounts.
The nominal amount is calculated with regard to the rates expected to be paid on
settlement of the liability.
Other long-term employee benefits are measured at net total of the present value of the
defined benefit obligation at the end of the reporting period minus the fair value at the
end of the reporting period of plan assets (if any) out of which the obligations are to be
settled directly.
Leave
The liability for employee benefits includes provision for annual leave and long service
leave. No provision has been made for sick leave as all sick leave is non-vesting and the
average sick leave taken in future years by employees of the department is estimated to
be less than the annual entitlement for sick leave.
The leave liabilities are calculated on the basis of employees’ remuneration at the
estimated salary rates that will be applied at the time the leave is taken, including the
department’s employer superannuation contribution rates, to the extent that the leave is
likely to be taken during service rather than paid out on termination.
The liability for long service leave has been determined by reference to the work of an
actuary as at 30 June 2010. The estimate of the present value of the liability takes into
account attrition rates and pay increases through promotion and inflation.
Separation and redundancy
Provision is made for separation and redundancy benefit payments. The department
recognises a provision for termination when it has developed a detailed formal plan for
the terminations and has informed those employees affected that it will carry out the
terminations.
Superannuation
Staff of the department are members of the Commonwealth Superannuation Scheme
(CSS), the Public Sector Superannuation Scheme (PSS), the PSS accumulation plan
(PSSap) or the Australian Government Employees Superannuation Trust (AGEST).
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Annual Report 2009-10
The CSS, PSS and AGEST are defined benefit schemes for the Australian Government.
The PSSap is a defined contribution scheme.
The liability for defined benefits is recognised in the financial statements of the Australian
Government and is settled by the Australian Government in due course. This liability is
reported by the Department of Finance and Deregulation as an administered item.
The department makes employer contributions to the employee superannuation scheme
at rates determined by an actuary to be sufficient to meet the current cost to the
Government of the superannuation entitlements of the department’s employees. The
department accounts for the contributions as if they were contributions to defined
contribution plans.
The liability for superannuation recognised as at 30 June represents outstanding
contributions for the final fortnight of the year.
1.9 Leases
A distinction is made between finance leases and operating leases. Finance leases
effectively transfer from the lessor to the lessee substantially all the risks and rewards
incidental to ownership of leased assets. An operating lease is a lease that is not a
finance lease. In operating leases, the lessor effectively retains substantially all such
risks and benefits.
Where an asset is acquired by means of a finance lease, the asset is capitalised at either
the fair value of the lease property or, if lower, the present value of minimum lease
payments at the inception of the contract and a liability is recognised at the same time
and for the same amount.
The discount rate used is the interest rate implicit in the lease. Leased assets are
amortised over the period of the lease. Lease payments are allocated between the
principal component and the interest expense.
Operating lease payments are expensed on a straight-line basis which is representative
of the pattern of benefits derived from the leased assets.
Lease incentives
Lease incentives taking the form of ‘free’ leasehold improvements and rent free holidays
are recognised as liabilities. These liabilities are reduced by allocating lease payments
between rental expense and reduction of the liability.
1.10 Cash
Cash and cash equivalents includes cash on hand, cash held with outsiders, demand
deposits in bank accounts with an original maturity of three months or less that are
readily convertible to known amounts of cash and subject to insignificant risk of changes
in value. Cash is recognised at its nominal amount.
1.11 Financial Assets
The department classifies its financial assets in the following categories:
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Annual Report 2009-10
●
financial assets at fair value through profit or loss;
●
available-for-sale financial assets; and
●
loans and receivables.
The classification depends on the nature and purpose of the financial assets and is
determined at the time of initial recognition.
Financial assets are recognised and derecognised upon trade date.
Effective interest method
The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortised cost of a financial
asset and of allocating interest income over the relevant period. The effective interest
rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts over the expected
life of the financial asset, or, where appropriate, a shorter period.
Income is recognised on an effective interest rate basis except for financial assets that
are recognised at fair value through profit or loss.
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
Financial assets are classified as financial assets at fair value through profit or loss where
the financial assets:
●
have been acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the near future;
●
are a part of an identified portfolio of financial instruments that the department
manages together and has a recent actual pattern of short-term profit-taking; or
●
are derivatives that are not designated and effective as a hedging instrument.
Assets in this category are classified as current assets.
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are stated at fair value, with any
resultant gain or loss recognised in profit or loss. The net gain or loss recognised in profit
or loss incorporates any interest earned on the financial asset.
Available-for-sale financial assets
Available-for-sale financial assets are non-derivatives that are either designated in this
category or not classified in any of the other categories.
Available-for-sale financial assets are recorded at fair value. Gains and losses arising
from changes in fair value are recognised directly in the reserves (equity) with the
exception of impairment losses. Interest is calculated using the effective interest method
and foreign exchange gains and losses on monetary assets are recognised directly in
profit or loss. Where the asset is disposed of or is determined to be impaired, part (or
all) of the cumulative gain or loss previously recognised in the reserve is included in
profit and loss for the period.
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Annual Report 2009-10
Where a reliable fair value cannot be established for unlisted investments in equity
instruments, cost is used. The department has no such instruments.
Loans and receivables
Trade receivables, loans and other receivables that have fixed or determinable payments
that are not quoted in an active market are classified as ‘loans and receivables’. Loans
and receivables are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method less
impairment. Interest is recognised by applying the effective interest rate.
Impairment of financial assets
Financial assets are assessed for impairment at the end of the reporting period.
●
Financial assets held at amortised cost -If there is objective evidence that an
impairment loss has been incurred for loans and receivables or held to maturity
investments held at amortised cost, the amount of the loss is measured as the
difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated
future cash flows discounted at the asset’s original effective interest rate. The
carrying amount is reduced by way of an allowance account. The loss is recognised
in the Statement of Comprehensive Income.
●
Available-for-sale financial assets -If there is objective evidence that an impairment
loss on an available-for-sale financial asset has been incurred, the amount of the
difference between its cost, less principal repayments and amortisation, and its
current fair value, less any impairment loss previously recognised in expenses, is
transferred from equity to the Statement of Comprehensive Income.
●
Financial assets held at cost -If there is objective evidence that an impairment loss
has been incurred the amount of the impairment loss is the difference between the
carrying amount of the asset and the present value of the estimated future cash
flows discounted at the current market rate for similar assets.
1.12 Financial Liabilities
Financial liabilities are classified as either financial liabilities at fair value through profit or
loss or other financial liabilities.
Financial liabilities are recognised and derecognised upon trade date.
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss are initially measured at fair value.
Subsequent fair value adjustments are recognised in profit or loss. The net gain or loss
recognised in profit or loss incorporates any interest paid on the financial liability.
Other financial liabilities
Other financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value, net of transaction costs.
Other financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective
interest method, with interest expense recognised on an effective yield basis.
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Annual Report 2009-10
The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortised cost of a financial
liability and of allocating interest expense over the relevant period. The effective interest
rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments through the
expected life of the financial liability, or, where appropriate, a shorter period.
Supplier and other payables are recognised at amortised cost. Liabilities are recognised
to the extent that the goods or services have been received (and irrespective of having
been invoiced).
1.13 Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets
Contingent liabilities and contingent assets are not recognised in the balance sheet but
are reported in the relevant schedules and notes. They may arise from uncertainty as to
the existence of a liability or asset or represent an asset or liability in respect of which
the amount cannot be reliably measured. Contingent assets are disclosed when
settlement is probable but not virtually certain and contingent liabilities are disclosed
when settlement is greater than remote.
Indemnities
The maximum amounts payable under the indemnities given is disclosed in the Schedule
of Contingencies. At the time of completion of the financial statements, there was no
reason to believe that the indemnities would be called upon, and no recognition of any
liability was therefore required.
1.14 Financial Guarantee Contracts
Financial guarantee contracts are accounted for in accordance with AASB 139 Financial
Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. They are not treated as a contingent
liability, as they are regarded as financial instruments outside the scope of AASB 137
Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets.
1.15 Acquisition of Assets
Assets are recorded at cost on acquisition except as stated below. The cost of acquisition
includes the fair value of assets transferred in exchange and liabilities undertaken.
Financial assets are initially measured at their fair value plus transaction costs where
appropriate.
Assets acquired at no cost, or for nominal consideration, are initially recognised as assets
and income at their fair value at the date of acquisition, unless acquired as a
consequence of restructuring of administrative arrangements. In the latter case, assets
are initially recognised as contributions by owners at the amounts at which they were
recognised in the transferor agency’s accounts immediately prior to the restructuring.
1.16 Infrastructure, Plant and Equipment including Land and Buildings
Asset recognition threshold
Purchases of infrastructure, plant and equipment are recognised initially at cost in the
balance sheet, except for purchases costing less than $2,000, (or $50,000 for leasehold
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improvements) which are expensed in the year of acquisition (other than where they
form part of a group of similar items which are significant in total).
The initial cost of an asset includes an estimate of the cost of dismantling and removing
the item and restoring the site on which it is located. This is particularly relevant to the
restoration obligation provisions in property leases taken up by the department where
there exists an obligation to restore the property to its original condition. These costs are
included in the value of the department's leasehold improvements with a corresponding
provision for restoration obligations recognised.
Revaluations
Fair values for each class of asset are determined as shown below:
Asset Class
Fair value measured at
Land
Market selling price
Buildings excluding leasehold
improvements
Market selling price
Buildings - Leasehold
improvements
Depreciated replacement cost
Infrastructure, plant and
equipment
Market selling price
Following initial recognition at cost, infrastructure, plant and equipment are carried at fair
value less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Valuations are
conducted with sufficient frequency to ensure that the carrying amounts of assets do not
differ materially from the assets’ fair values as at the reporting date. The regularity of
independent valuations depends upon the volatility of movements in market values for
the relevant assets.
Revaluation adjustments are made on a class basis. Any revaluation increment is
credited to equity under the heading of asset revaluation reserve except to the extent
that it reverses a previous revaluation decrement of the same asset class that was
previously recognised in the surplus/deficit. Revaluation decrements for a class of assets
are recognised directly through the surplus/deficit except to the extent that they reverse
a previous revaluation increment for that class.
Any accumulated depreciation as at the revaluation date is eliminated against the gross
carrying amount of the asset and the asset restated to the revalued amount.
Depreciation
Depreciable infrastructure, plant and equipment assets are written-off to their estimated
residual values over their estimated useful lives to the department using, in all cases, the
straight-line method of depreciation.
Depreciation rates (useful lives), residual values and methods are reviewed at each
reporting date and necessary adjustments are recognised in the current, or current and
future reporting periods, as appropriate.
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Depreciation rates applying to each class of depreciable asset are based on the following
useful lives:
Asset Class
2010
2009
Buildings on freehold land
37-51 years
37-51 years
Buildings - leasehold
improvements
Lease term
Lease term
Infrastructure, plant and
equipment
3-15 years
3-15 years
Impairment
All assets were assessed for impairment at 30 June 2010. Where indications of
impairment exist, the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated and an impairment
adjustment made if the asset’s recoverable amount is less than its carrying amount.
The recoverable amount of an asset is the higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its
value in use. Value in use is the present value of the future cash flows expected to be
derived from the asset. Where the future economic benefit of an asset is not primarily
dependent on the asset’s ability to generate future cash flows, and the asset would be
replaced if the department were deprived of the asset, its value in use is taken to be its
depreciated replacement cost.
Assets not previously recognised
Computer equipment was brought to account as part of infrastructure, plant and
equipment for the first time as at 30 June 2010. The asset is to be written off to its
estimated residual value over the estimated useful life using the straight-line method of
depreciation.
1.17 Intangibles
The department’s intangibles comprise purchased and internally developed computer
software for internal use. These assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortisation
and accumulated impairment losses. Purchases costing less than $200,000 are expensed
in the year of acquisition (other than where they form part of a group of similar items
which are significant in total).
Computer software is amortised on a straight-line basis over its anticipated useful life.
The useful lives of the department’s software are 2-5 years (2008-09: 2-5 years).
All software assets were assessed for indications of impairment as at 30 June 2010.
1.18 Inventories
Inventories held for sale are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value.
Inventories held for distribution are valued at cost, adjusted for any loss of service
potential.
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Costs incurred in bringing each item of inventory to its present location and condition are
assigned as follows:
●
raw materials and stores – purchase cost on a first-in-first-out basis; and
●
finished goods and work-in-progress – cost of direct materials and labour plus
attributable costs that are capable of being allocated on a reasonable basis.
Inventories acquired at no cost or nominal consideration are initially measured at current
replacement cost at the date of acquisition.
1.19 Taxation
The department is exempt from all forms of taxation except fringe benefits tax (FBT) and
the goods and services tax (GST).
Revenues, expenses and non-financial assets are recognised net of GST except:
●
where the amount of GST incurred is not recoverable from the Australian Taxation
Office; and
●
for receivables and payables.
1.20 Reporting of Administered Activities
Administered revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities and cash flows are disclosed in the
Schedule of Administered Items and related notes.
Except where otherwise stated below, administered items are accounted for on the same
basis and using the same policies as for departmental items, including the application of
Australian Accounting Standards.
Administered cash transfers to and from the official public account
Revenue collected by the department for use by the Government rather than the agency
is administered revenue. Collections are transferred to the Official Public Account (OPA)
maintained by the Department of Finance and Deregulation. Conversely, cash is drawn
from the OPA to make payments under Parliamentary appropriation on behalf of
Government. These transfers to and from the OPA are adjustments to the administered
cash held by the agency on behalf of the Government and reported as such in the
Statement of Cash Flows in the Schedule of Administered Items and in Note 19:
Administered Reconciliation Table.
Revenue
All administered revenues are revenues relating to the course of ordinary activities
performed by the department on behalf of the Australian Government.
Administered fee revenue is recognised when the service is provided. Collectability of the
debt is reviewed at balance date. Impairment allowances are made when collectability of
the debt is judged to be less, rather than more, likely.
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Gains and losses
Administered gains or losses under the Higher Education Loan Programme (HELP), the
Student Loan Supplement Scheme and Unfunded University Superannuation are
recognised at 30 June each year based on an actuarial assessment of the fair value.
Loans and receivables
Where loans and receivables are not subject to concessional treatment, they are carried
at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Gains and losses due to
impairment, derecognition and amortisation are recognised through profit or loss.
The HELP scheme is administered under the Higher Education Support Act 2003. HELP
consists of HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP, OS-HELP, and VET FEE-HELP, and any resulting debts
are called a HELP debt.
The HELP debts are reflected as a receivable in the Schedule of Administered Items. The
Australian Taxation Office (ATO) collects repayments of the debts through the PAYG
income tax system and voluntary repayments.
The department has recorded the total accumulated HECS and/or HELP debt in its
financial statements at fair value in accordance with AASB 139 Financial Instruments:
Recognition and Measurement. This varies from the debt level shown on the ATO
certificate.
Receivables not subject to concessional treatment are carried at cost. Administered
receivables, including those relating to personal benefit overpayments, represent debts
owed to the department by past and present customers. All debts known to be
irrecoverable are excluded from the value of administered receivables. Irrecoverable
debts comprise amounts written off pursuant to section 1236 of the Social Security Act
1991 and amounts waived pursuant to section 1237 of the Social Security Act 1991. In
accordance with departmental guidelines for the operation of waivers under section 1237
of the Social Security Act 1991, where a debt is not likely to exceed a threshold amount
and it is not cost effective for the Australian Government to recover the debt, the debt is
waived.
Independent valuations are conducted with sufficient frequency to ensure that the
carrying amounts of impairment allowances for doubtful debts does not differ materially
from the fair value as at the reporting date. The regularity of independent valuations
depends upon the volatility of movements in the programs.
Administered investments
Administered investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates are not
consolidated because their consolidation is relevant only at the Whole of Government
level.
Administered investments other than those held for sale are classified as available-forsale and are measured at their fair value as at 30 June 2010. Fair value has been taken
to be the Australian Government's proportional interest in the net assets of the entities
as at the end of the reporting period.
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The department administers a number of grant and subsidy schemes on behalf of the
Government.
Grant and subsidy liabilities are recognised to the extent that (i) the services required to
be performed by the grantee have been performed or (ii) the grant eligibility criteria have
been satisfied, but payments due have not been made. A commitment is recorded when
the Government enters into an agreement to make these grants but services have not
been performed or criteria satisfied.
Under the new Federal Financial Framework agreed with Council of Australian
Governments (COAG), which came into effect on 1 January 2009, the Department of the
Treasury is accountable for the payment of grants under the National Partnership
Agreements to the States and Territories. As a result DEEWR reported payments made
since the agreement came into effect as:
●
Nation building transfers (Note 16E) for all payments made through State and
Territory Governments;
●
State and Territory Grants (Note 16E) for all payments made to State and Territory
Governments for the period 1 July 2008 to 31 December 2009.
Voluntary disclosure
The department administers a number of personal benefit programs on behalf of the
government that provide income support, family assistance and other entitlements to
individuals. Payments are determined in accordance with provisions under social security
law and other legislation. Payments made under the Social Security (Administration) Act
1999, A New Tax System (Family Assistance) (Administration) Act 1999 and Student
Assistance Act 1973 legislation are assessed, determined and paid by officers of
Centrelink under delegation from the department.
Payments made by Centrelink appear in the financial statements of the department,
which receives appropriations for the payments.
The Social Security (Administration) Act 1999, A New Tax System (Family Assistance)
(Administration) Act 1999 and Student Assistance Act 1973 imposes an obligation on
payment recipients to disclose to Centrelink information about financial and personal
circumstances that affect entitlement to payment. Unreported changes in circumstances
can lead to incorrect payment, even if no deliberate fraud is intended. However, risks
associated with relying on voluntary disclosure are mitigated by a risk management
strategy which focuses on prevention, detection and deterrence.
In addition, Centrelink conducts a comprehensive program of reviews. Compliance
reviews of payment recipient's circumstances are the main tool to detect overpayment
and benefit fraud. Recipients are generally selected for compliance reviews based on risk
categories and inconsistencies in income, assets or other data across Centrelink systems,
or between Centrelink and data gathered through Job Services Australia, universities, or
held by other agencies such as the ATO.
Payments to CACAct bodies
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From 2008-09, payments to Comcare from amounts appropriated for that purpose are
classified as administered expenses of the relevant portfolio department. The
appropriation to the department is disclosed in Tables A1, A2, B1 and C in Note 23.
Note 2. Events Occurring after the Balance Sheet Date
In 2009 the Australian Government announced changes to its governance arrangements
for international education. These changes include the transfer of responsibility for
promotion and marketing of Australia’s international education and training to the
Australian Trade Commission (Austrade). These functions are currently within the
department and will be transferred from 1 July 2010.
In April 2010 the Australian Government announced the transfer of responsibility for
agreement-making, classification structures, Australian public service remuneration
arrangements, work level standards and workplace relations advice from the department
to the Australian Public Service Commission (APSC). These functions will transfer from 1
July 2010.
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Note 3. Expenses
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Note 4. Income
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Note 5. Financial Assets
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Note 6. Non-Financial Assets
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Note 7. Payables
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Note 8. Provisions
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Note 9. Restructuring
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Note 10. Cash Flow Reconciliation
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Note 11. Contingent Liabilities and Assets
Quantifiable Contingencies
The schedule of contingencies reports contingent liabilities in respect of indemnities and
claims for damages of $1.216 million (2009: $1.412 million).
The schedule also reports contingent assets in respect of claims for damages of $0.054
million (2009: $0.239 million).
The amounts included in the schedule represent an estimate of the department's
contingent assets and liabilities based on wide ranging legal cases.
Unquantifiable Contingencies
As at 30 June 2010, the department had contingent assets likely to be received in respect
of damages and claims that are not quantifiable. There were 21 open matters in the
hands of the department's legal representatives (2009:35). These open matters relate to
a wide range of legal issues (departmental and administered) with varying probabilities of
success. It is not possible to estimate the amounts of any eventual receipts or payments
that may be received or made in relation to these claims.
Significant Remote Contingencies
The department has $0.022 million (2009: nil) contingent assets where the likelihood of
receipt is remote. The value of contingent liabilities where the likelihood of payment is
remote is $0.180 million (2009: $0.213 million). These are not included in the Schedule
of Contingencies.
In addition to the unquantifiable contingencies listed above, the department has provided
an indemnity to the Reserve Bank of Australia against loss or damage arising from the
bank acting in good faith on the instructions given to it under the provision of the
contract for the department's transactional banking services, any error, mistake, fraud or
negligence and any failure of the department to observe its obligations. The likelihood of
any payment being required under the indemnity is remote and unquantifiable.
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Note 12. Senior Executive Remuneration
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Major differences between Note 12Aand 12B
Note 12A includes amounts paid (and payable) to Senior Executive (including acting
arrangements and part year service where the $145,000 threshold was reached during
the year). Note 12B reflects only substantive Senior Executive packages in existence as
at 30 June for all SES including those on secondment to other agencies and on long term
leave.
Note 12A disclosed senior executive remuneration based on:
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(a) Salary (including payment for annual leave taken)
(b) Movements in annual leave and long service leave provisions
(c) Superannuation (post employment benefits)
(d) Motor vehicles and other allowances
(e) Reportable fringe benefits.
Theses amounts may differ to the remuneration package amounts disclosed in Note 12B
depending on: the amount of leave taken during the year, part-year service, periods of
leave without pay, acting arrangements, changes to base salary, salary for
superannuation purposes and allowances during the year, and revaluations of employee
provisions.
Note 13. Remuneration of Auditors
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Note 14. Financial Instruments
347
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348
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Note 15. Income Administered on Behalf of Government Revenue
350
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Note 16. Expenses Administered on Behalf of Government
351
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Note 17. Assets Administered on Behalf of Government
354
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Note 18. Liabilities Administered on Behalf of Government
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Note 19. Administered Reconciliation Table
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Note 20. Administered Contingent Assets and Liabilities
Quantifiable Contingencies
The schedule of administered contingencies reports contingent assets and liabilities in
respect of estimated payments and recoveries in relation to the Early Childhood
Programs, Special Employee Entitlements Scheme for Ansett Group Employees (SEESA),
dividends for General Employee Entitlements and Redundancy Scheme (GEERS) and
proceedings in the Dust Disease Tribunal as a result of the department's administration in
prior years. The estimated contingent liability is $30.191 million (2009: $4.347 million).
The estimated contingent asset is $27.701 million (2009: $43.081 million).
Unquantifiable Contingencies
At 30 June 2010, the department had a number of legal claims against it. The
department has denied liability and is defending the claims. It is not possible to estimate
the amounts of any eventual payment that may be required in relation to these claims.
In addition, there are currently a number of cases before both the Administrative Appeals
Tribunal (AAT) and the Social Security Appeals Tribunal (SSAT) for which the outcomes
are not yet known or able to be quantified.
Relating to the General Employee Entitlements and Redundancy Scheme (GEERS), it is
known that there are employers with large outstanding employee entitlements that have
been placed into liquidation. The amounts are unable to be quantified as no claim forms
have been received.
Significant Remote Contingencies
The value of Contingent Assets where the likelihood of receipt is remote is nil (2009:
$43,852). The value of Contingent Liabilities where the likelihood of payment is remote is
$11.490 million (2009: $1.462 million). These are not included in the schedule of
administered contingencies.
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Note 21. Administered Financial Instruments
362
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363
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364
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365
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Note 22. Unfunded Superannuation Provision for Australian
Universities
Funding responsibility for universities has varied from time to time between the
Commonwealth and the States. A number of universities have employees or former
employees who are members of State superannuation schemes which are unfunded or
partly funded. In these schemes, current employer contributions for benefits cover many
past years of accruals of benefit rights for individual members. Accordingly, there are
cost sharing arrangements for these schemes in place between the Commonwealth and
the States. The Commonwealth makes payments to the universities which are used to
pay the required amount of employer contributions to the schemes. The Commonwealth
is then reimbursed by the States for their share of the costs.
Prior to 2002-03, the Commonwealth recognised its involvement in the Annual Financial
Statements of the former Department of Education, Science and Training as an
administered commitment. However, as a result of the introduction of Accounting
Standard AASB 1044 and UIG51 the Commonwealth recognised the administered
commitment as a provision (liability) for the first time in 2002-03. AASB 1044 requires
the recognition of a provision where it is probable that a future sacrifice of economic
benefit will be required and where the amount of the provision can be measured reliably.
It should be noted that inclusion of a provision as a liability in the Annual Financial
Statements does not constitute recognition of a legal obligation or policy commitment.
For 2009-10 AASB 119 is the standard used to measure unfunded superannuation
liabilities. The main difference with this approach is the economic assumptions used.
AASB 119 requires the use of the 'best estimate'; assumptions based on current market
conditions/expectations. In particular, the interest rate should be based on the yields
available on Government bonds so the liability has been calculated using the spot interest
rate at the end of the financial year.
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The Australian Government Actuary provides an estimate of the provision. The Australian
Government Actuary noted that the estimates are based on figures provided by
respective State actuaries for the universities and that these calculations were at
different dates and on different actuarial bases.
In accordance with the generally accepted accounting principles, the statements
recognised a receivable from the States as the estimated reimbursement to the
Commonwealth by the States of $1.399 billion (2009: $1.179 billion). In recognition of
the uncertain nature of the receivable, an impairment allowance for doubtful debts
against that receivable has also been recognised of $0.933 billion (2009: $0.747 billion).
The annual financial statements include a total unfunded superannuation liability of
$5.039 billion (2009: $4.209 billion) of which the Commonwealth's share is estimated to
be $4.573 billion (2009: $3.777 billion).
Note 23. Appropriations
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Note 24. Special Accounts
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382
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DEEWR has the following special account containing nil balances and for which there were
no transactions debited or credited for the years ended 30 June 2009 and 30 June 2010:
385
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- Child Care Capital Replacement and Upgrade Program Trust account. This account was
established under Section 20 of the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997. The
purpose of the account is to receive and hold money arising from the sale of
Commonwealth funded child care centres until such time as that money may be
reinvested into the building of a new childcare centre or another project funded under the
capital replacement and upgrade program. The Special Account was abolished on 29 June
2010 with an effective date of 7 July 2010; refer Financial Management and
Accountability Determination 2010/12.
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Note 25. Compensation and Debt Relief
387
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Note 26. Reporting of Outcomes
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Part 6 - References
Glossary
Term
Description
Accrual Accounting
System of accounting where items are brought to account and
included in the financial statements as they earned or incurred,
rather than as they are received or paid.
Accumulated Depreciation
The aggregate depreciation recorded for a particular
depreciating asset.
Additional Estimates
Where amounts appropriated at Budget time are insufficient,
Parliament may appropriate more funds to portfolios through the
Additional Estimates Acts.
Additional Estimates Bills or
Acts
These are Appropriation Bills 3 and 4, and a separate Bill for the
Parliamentary Departments.
[Appropriations (Parliamentary Departments) Bill (No. 2)]. These
Bills are introduced into Parliament sometime after the Budget
Bills.
Administered Items
Expenses, revenues, assets or liabilities managed by agencies on
behalf of the Commonwealth. Agencies do not control
administered items. Administered expenses include grants,
subsidies and benefits. In many cases, administered expenses
fund the delivery of third party outputs.
Appropriation
An authorisation by Parliament to spend moneys from
Consolidated Revenue Fund for a particular purpose.
Annual Appropriation
Two Appropriation Bills are introduced into Parliament in May
and comprise the Budget for the financial year beginning 1 July.
Further Bills are introduced later in the financial year as part of
the additional estimates. Parliamentary departments have their
own appropriations.
Assets
Assets are physical objects and legal rights it is expected will
provide benefits in the future or alternatively items of value
owned by an Agency.
Budget Measure
A decision by Cabinet or Ministers and has resulted in a cost or
savings to outlays.
Capital expenditure
Expenditure by an agency on capital projects, for example
purchasing a building.
Consolidated Revenue Fund
Section 81 of the Constitution stipulates that all revenue raised
or money received by the Commonwealth forms the one
consolidated revenue fund (CRF). The CRF is not a bank account.
The Official Public Account reflects most of the operations to the
CRF.
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Departmental Items
Assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses that are controlled by
the agency in providing its inputs. Departmental items would
generally include computers, plant and equipment assets used
by agencies in providing goods and service and most employee
expenses, supplier costs and other administrative expenses
incurred.
Depreciation
Apportionment of an asset's capital value as an expense over its
estimated useful life to take into account of normal usage,
obsolescence, or the passage of time.
Effectiveness indicators
Measures the joint or independent contribution of outputs and
administered items to the achievement of their specified
outcome.
Efficiency indicators
Measures the adequacy of an agency's management of its
outputs (and where applicable, administered items). Includes
Price, Quality and Quantity indicators. The interrelationships
between the three efficiency indicators of any one output should
be considered when judging efficiency.
Equity or net assets
Residual interest in the assets of an entity after deduction of its
liabilities.
Expenses
Total value of all the resources consumed in producing goods
and services or the loss of future economic benefits in the form
of reductions in assets or increases in liabilities of an entity.
Fair value
Valuation Methodology: The amount for which an asset could be
exchanged or a liability settled, between knowledgeable and
willing parties in an arm's length transaction. Their fair value can
be affected by the conditions and the intentions of the asset
holder.
Financial Management and
Accountability (FMA) Act 1997
The principal legislation governing the proper use and
management of public money and public property and other
Australian Government resources. FMA Regulations and FMA
Orders are made pursuant to the Act.
Financing transactions
The Government funds shortfalls in revenue over outlays by
borrowing from financial markets or running down financial
assets. Such activities are regarded as financing transactions. If
a surplus of revenue over outlays is recorded then financing
transactions will show how the surplus is used.
Forward estimates
A system of rolling three financial estimates. After the Budget is
passed, the first year of the forward estimates becomes the base
for next year's Budget bid, and another out-year is added to the
forward estimates.
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Government Finance Statistics The GFS reporting framework is a specialised statistical system
(GFS)
designed to support economic analysis of the public sector. It
allows comprehensive assessments to be made of the economic
impact of government and is consistent with international
statistical standards (the System of National Accounts 1993
(SNA93) and the international Monetary Funds' A Manual on
Government Finance Statistics 2001).
Liabilities
Liabilities represent amounts owing on goods or services that
have been received but not yet paid for. A liability shows the
future commitment of the Agency's assets.
Loan Fund
Established by the FMA Act 1997, the Loan Fund contains all
monies raised by loans on the public credit of the Australian
Government. Expenditure from the Loan Fund is limited to the
purpose for which monies were raised.
Net Annotated appropriation
(Section 31 Receipts)
Section 31 receipts, also known as net annotated appropriations,
are a form of appropriation which allows a department access to
certain money it receives in payment of services. These monies
are known as Section 31 Receipts, reflecting their authority
under Section 31 of the FMA Act 1997.
Operating result
Equals revenue less expenses.
Outcomes
The government's objectives in each portfolio area. Outcomes
are desired results, impacts or consequences for the Australian
community as influenced by the actions by the Australian
Government. Actual outcomes are assessments of the endresults or impacts actually achieved.
Portfolio Budget Statements
Statements prepared by portfolios to explain the Budget
appropriations in terms of outcomes.
Receipts
The total or gross amount received by the Australian
Government. Each receipt item is either revenue, an offset
within outlays, or a financing transaction. Receipts include taxes,
interest, charges for goods and services, borrowings and
Government Business Enterprise (GBE) dividends received.
Revenue
Total value of resources earned or received to cover the
production of goods and services.
Section 31 Receipts
See net annotated appropriation.
Special Account
Balances existing within the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF)
that are supported by standing appropriations (FMA Act 1997,
ss.22 and 21). Special accounts allow money in the CRF to be
acknowledged as set-aside (hypothecated) for a particular
purpose. Amounts credited to a Special Account may only be
spent for the purposes of the Special Account. Special Accounts
can only be established by a written determination of the
Finance Minister (s.20 of the FMA Act 1997) or through an Act of
Parliament (referred to in s.21 of the FMA Act 1997).
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Special Appropriations
(including Standing
Appropriations)
An amount of money appropriated by a particular Act of
Parliament for a specific purpose and number of years. For
special appropriations the authority to withdraw funds from the
Consolidated Revenue Fund does not generally cease at the end
of the financial year. Standing appropriations are a sub-category
consisting of ongoing special appropriations—the amount
appropriated will depend on circumstances specified in the
legislation.
Acronyms
Acronyms
Description
ABS
Australian Bureau of Statistics
ACARA
Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority
ACER
Australian Council for Education Research
ADF
Australian Defence Force
AEI
Australian Education International
AEDI
Australian Early Development Index
ANAO
Australian National Audit Office
ANU
Australian National University
APEC
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation
ATC
Australian Technical College
ASEAN
Association of Southeast Asian Nations
AusAID
Australian Agency for International Development
AWA
Australian Workplace Agreement
AYF
Australian Youth Forum
BER
Building the Education Revolution
CCB
Child Care Benefit
CCR
Child Care Rebate
CDEP
Community Development Employment Projects
CGS
Commonwealth Grant Scheme
COAG
Council of Australian Governments
CRICOS
Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas
Students
CSIRO
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation
394
Annual Report 2009-10
DASA
Diversity and Structural Adjustment
DEEWR
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
DEN
Disability Employment Network
DER
Digital Education Revolution
DES
Disability Employment Service
DIISR
Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research
DISC
DEEWR Implementation Steering Committee
DSP
Disability Support Pension
EAS
East Asia Summit
EFTSL
equivalent full-time student load
EIF
Education Investment Fund
EMS
Environmental Management System
ESA
Education Services Australia
ESOS
Education Services for Overseas Students
FaHCSIA
Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous
Affairs
FOI
Freedom of Information
FOLP
Framework for Open Learning Program
FTA
free trade agreement
FWA
Fair Work Australia
GEERS
General Employee Entitlements and Redundancy Scheme
GTO
group training organisation
GTTP
Group Training in the Trades Program
HECS
Higher Education Contribution Scheme
HELP
Higher Education Loan Program
HLS
Harvest Labour Services
IAGDP
Indigenous Australian Government Development Program
ICT
information and communication technology
IEP
Indigenous Employment Program
IHEAC
Indigenous Higher Education Advisory Council
IHTS
Incentives for Higher Technical Skills
395
Annual Report 2009-10
ILAC
International Labour Affairs Committee
ILC
International Labour Conference
ILO
International Labour Organization
IWG
RAP Implementation Working Group
IYMP
Indigenous Youth Mobility Program
IYLP
Indigenous Youth Leadership Program
JCA
Job Capacity Assessment
JCPAA
Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit
JET
Jobs, Education and Training
LEC
Local Employment Coordinator
LLNP
Language, Literacy and Numeracy Program
low SES
low socioeconomic status
MCEECDYA
Ministerial Council for Education, Early Childhood Development and
Youth Affairs
NALSSP
National Asian Languages and Studies in Schools Program
NAPLAN
National Assessment Program—Literacy and Numeracy
NCEIS
National Centre of Excellence for Islamic Studies
NCSEHE
National Centre for Student Equity in Higher Education
NCVER
National Centre for Vocational Education Research
NEA
National Education Agreement
NEIS
New Enterprise Incentive Scheme
NESA
National Employment Services Association
NOLS
National Occupation Licensing System
NTDET
Northern Territory Department of Education and Training
NTER
Northern Territory Emergency Response
NYW
National Youth Week
OECD
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
OECECC
Office of Early Childhood Education and Child Care
OFSC
Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner
OHS
Occupational health and safety
PaCE
Parental and Community Engagement program
396
Annual Report 2009-10
PACER
Parliament and Civic Education Rebate
PIRLS
Progress in International Reading Literacy Study
PISA
Programme for International Student Assessment
RAP
Reconciliation Action Plan
RTO
registered training organisation
SACS
social and community services
SEAMEO
Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization
STAT
Special Tertiary Admissions Test
TEQSA
Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency
TIMSS
Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study
TIP
Targeted Initiatives Program
TPP
Trans Pacific Partnership
TRA
Trades Recognition Australia
UNESCO
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
VET
Vocational education and training
VEN
Vocational Education Broadband Network
VRS
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
WDL
working days lost
WELL
Workplace English Language and Literacy
WPI
Wage Price Index
WRMC
Workplace Relations Ministers' Council
Department websites
The following websites are relevant to the operations of the department and associated
portfolio agencies.
Early childhood and child care
www.deewr.gov.au/Earlychildhood
Provides information including but not limited to:
Careers in early childhood
Child Care for Families
Child Care for Services
Early Childhood Education
National Workforce Census
397
Annual Report 2009-10
www.mychild.gov.au
Schooling
www.deewr.gov.au/Schooling
Provides information including but not limited to:
Building the Education Revolution
Digital Education and Technology
Languages Education
Literacy and Numeracy
National Professional Standards for Teachers
National Smarter Schools Partnerships
New Pathway into Teaching initiative
Review of Funding for Schooling
Safe Schools
School Nutrition Program
Student Wellbeing
Teaching and Curriculum
www.deewr.gov.au/student_income_su Student Income Support
pport
www.deewr.gov.au/Youth/OfficeForYou Youth Initiatives
th
www.deewr.gov.au/youthallowance
Income Support For Students
www.acara.edu.au
The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and
Reporting Authority
www.aitsl.edu.au
Australian Institute for Teaching and School
Leadership
www.asiaeducation.edu.au
Asia Education Foundation
www.asistm.edu.au
Australian Schools Innovation in Science,
Technology and Mathematics
www.civicsandcitizenship.edu.au
Civics and Citizenship Education
www.jobguide.deewr.gov.au
Job Guide
www.lsay.edu.au
Longitudinal Surveys of Australian Youth
www.mceecdya.edu.au
Ministerial Council for Education, Early Childhood
Development and Youth Affairs
www.myfuture.edu.au
My Future
www.scientistsinschools.edu.au
Scientists in Schools
www.tradetrainingcentres.deewr.gov.a
u
Trade Training Centres in Schools Program
398
Annual Report 2009-10
www.valueseducation.edu.au
Values Education
www.youth.gov.au
Youth Access
Higher Education
www.deewr.gov.au/HigherEducation
Provides information including but not limited to:
Commonwealth Scholarship Program
Education Investment Fund
Higher Education Participation and Partnerships
Program
Structural Adjustment Fund
Student Assistance Estimator
Youth Allowance
www.deewr.gov.au/dsa
Diversity and Structural Adjustment Fund
www.deewr.gov.au/EndeavourAwards
Endeavour Awards
www.deewr.gov.au/student_income_su Student Income Support
pport
www.deewr.gov.au/skills/productivitypl Productivity Places Program
aces
www.deewr.gov.au/skillsforsustainabilit Skills for Sustainability
y
www.deewr.gov.au/tpdh
Training Package Development Handbook
www.deewr.gov.au/well
Workplace English and Literacy Program
www.aei.gov.au
Australian Education International
www.altc.edu.au
Australian Teaching and Learning Council
www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au
Australian Apprenticeships
www.australiantrainingawards.gov.au
Australian Training Awards
www.cricos.deewr.gov.au
Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses
for Overseas Students
www.goingtouni.gov.au
Going to uni—higher education for students in
Australia
www.licencerecognition.gov.au
Mutual recognition of licensed trade occupations
www.nceis.unimelb.edu.au
National Centre of Excellence for Islamic Studies
www.ntis.gov.au
National Training Information Service
www.qualityteaching.deewr.gov.au
Quality Teacher Programme
www.skillsandtraininginfo.com.au
Skills and Training Information
399
Annual Report 2009-10
www.skillsaustralia.gov.au
Skills Australia
www.skillsinfo.gov.au
Skills Info
www.studyinaustralia.gov.au
Study in Australia
www.studyoverseas.gov.au
Study Overseas Portal
www.training.com.au
National Training Information Service
Employment
www.deewr.gov.au/Employment
Information including but not limited to:
Australian Jobs
Compliance Review
Disability Employment Services
Employer Brokers
Golden Gurus
Job Capacity Assessment
Job Services Australia
Jobs Fund
Labour Market Information Portal
National Green Jobs Corps
New Enterprise Incentive Scheme
Pacific Seasonal Worker Pilot Scheme
www.jobaccess.gov.au
JobAccess (for people with disability)
www.joboutlook.gov.au
Job Outlook
www.jobsearch.gov.au
JobSearch and Work for the Dole (for all job
seekers)
www.jobwise.gov.au
JobWise (for mature aged people)
www.keepaustraliaworking.gov.au
Keep Australia Working
www.skilledmigrant.gov.au
Skilled Migrants
Workplace relations
http://www.deewr.gov.au/
WorkplaceRelations
Information including but not limited to:
Australia's Fair Work System
Employee Entitlements
Fair Work Education and Family
Fresh Ideas for Work and Family
Paid Parental Leave
www.deewr.gov.au/tra
Trades Recognition Australia
400
Annual Report 2009-10
www.abcc.gov.au
Office of the Australian Building and Construction
Commissioner
www.comcare.gov.au
Comcare
www.dfrt.gov.au
Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal
www.fsc.gov.au
Federal Safety Commissioner
www.fwo.gov.au
Fair Work Ombudsman
www.remtribunal.gov.au
Remuneration Tribunal
www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au
Safe Work Australia
www.workplace.gov.au
Australian Workplace
Indigenous
www.deewr.gov.au/Indigenous
Information including but not limited to:
ABSTUDY
Community Festivals for Education Engagement
Early Childhood
Higher Education
Increasing Vocational Learning Opportunities
Indigenous Education Ambassadors Program
Indigenous Opportunities Policy
Indigenous Staff Scholarships
Indigenous Wage Subsidy
Learn Earn Legend!
Parental and Community Engagement Program
Reconciliation Action Plan
Schooling
Skills
Sporting Chance Program
Supplementary Recurring Assistance
Tutorial Assistance
What Works Program
Youth
www.deewr.gov.au/Employment
Information including but not limited to:
Indigenous Australian Apprenticeships resources
Australian Employment Covenant
www.deewr.gov.au/IHEAC
Indigenous Higher Education Advisory Council
www.daretolead.edu.au
Dare to Lead
401
Annual Report 2009-10
www.workplace.gov.au
Participants in the Community Development
Employment Projects
Social inclusion
www.socialinclusion.gov.au
Information including but not limited to:
Addressing Homelessness
Social inclusion
Supporting Social Enterprise
Volunteering
Compliance Index
This report is prepared in accordance with the Requirements for Annual Reports approved
by the Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit under subsections 63(2) and 70(2)
of the Public Service Act 1999. This index lists mandatory and recommended reporting
items.
Part of Report Description
Review by
Secretary
Requirement
Page
Letter of transmittal
Mandatory
iii
Table of contents
Mandatory
iv
Index
Mandatory
365
Glossary
Mandatory
352
Contact officer(s)
Mandatory
ii
Internet home page address and Internet
address for report
Mandatory
ii
Review by departmental secretary
Mandatory
2-7
Summary of significant issues and
developments
Suggested
2-7
Overview of department's performance and
financial results
Suggested
2-7
Outlook for following year
Suggested
2-7
Mandatory
8
Mandatory
8
Organisational structure
Mandatory
12
Outcome and program structure
Mandatory
14
Departmental Overview description of department
Overview
Role and functions
402
Annual Report 2009-10
Part of Report Description
Requirement
Page
Where outcome and program structures
Mandatory
differ from PB Statements/ PAES or other
portfolio statements accompanying any other
additional appropriation bills (other portfolio
statements), details of variation and reasons
for change
Portfolio structure
n/a
Portfolio
14
departments—
mandatory
Report on
Performance
Review of performance during the year in
relation to programs and contribution to
outcomes
Mandatory
16-156
Actual performance in relation to deliverables Mandatory
and KPIs set out in PB Statements/PAES or
other portfolio statements
16-156
Performance of purchaser/provider
arrangements
16-156
If applicable,
mandatory
Where performance targets differ from the
Mandatory
PB Statements/ PAES, details of both former
and new targets, and reasons for the change
16-156
Narrative discussion and analysis of
performance
Mandatory
16-156
Trend information
Mandatory
16-156
Significant changes in nature of principal
functions/services
Suggested
16-156
Factors, events or trends influencing
departmental performance
Suggested
16-156
Contribution of risk management in
achieving objectives
Suggested
16-156
Performance against service charter
If applicable,
customer service standards, complaints data mandatory
and the department's response to complaints
168
Discussion and analysis of the department's
financial performance
Mandatory
179
Agency resource statement and summary
resource tables by outcomes
Mandatory
235
403
Annual Report 2009-10
Part of Report Description
Developments since the end of the financial
year that have affected or may significantly
affect the department's operations or
financial results in future
Requirement
Page
If applicable,
mandatory
n/a
Corporate
Accountability
Corporate
Governance
Statement of the main corporate governance Mandatory
practices in place
Names of the senior executive and their
responsibilities
Suggested
Senior management committees and their
roles
Suggested
158
8-11
Corporate and operational planning and
Suggested
associated performance reporting and review
158
Approach adopted to identifying areas of
significant financial or operational risk
Suggested
159
Agency heads are required to certify that
Mandatory
their agency comply with the Commonwealth
Fraud Control Guidelines
iii, 177
Policy and practices on the establishment
and maintenance of appropriate ethical
standards
Suggested
158
Significant developments in external scrutiny Mandatory
177-179
Judicial decisions and decisions of
administrative tribunals
Mandatory
177-179
Reports by the Auditor-General, a
Parliamentary Committee or the
Commonwealth Ombudsman
Mandatory
177-179
Management of Assessment of effectiveness in managing and Mandatory
Human
developing human resources to achieve
Resources
departmental objectives
160-167
External
Scrutiny
Workforce planning, staff turnover and
retention
Suggested
160-167
Impact and features of collective
agreements, determinations, common law
contracts and AWAs
Suggested
160-167
Training and development undertaken and its Suggested
impact
160-167
404
Annual Report 2009-10
Part of Report Description
Requirement
Page
Occupational health and safety performance
Suggested
160-167
Statistics on staffing
Mandatory
160-167
Enterprise or collective agreements,
determinations, common law contracts and
AWAs
Mandatory
160-167
Performance pay
Mandatory
160-167
Assets
Management
Assessment of effectiveness of assets
management
If applicable,
mandatory
180
Purchasing
Assessment of purchasing against core
policies and principles
Mandatory
180
Consultants
The annual report must include a summary
Mandatory
statement detailing the number of new
consultancy services contracts let during the
year; the total actual expenditure on all new
consultancy contracts let during the year
(inclusive of GST); the number of ongoing
consultancy contracts that were active in the
reporting year; and the total actual
expenditure in the reporting year on the
ongoing consultancy contracts (inclusive of
GST). The annual report must include a
statement noting that information on
contracts and consultancies is available
through the Austender website. (Additional
information as in Attachment D to be
available on the Internet or published as an
appendix to the report. Information must be
presented in accordance with the pro forma
as set out in Attachment D.)
180, 223232
Australian
National Audit
Office Access
Clauses
Absence of provisions in contracts allowing
access by the Auditor-General
Mandatory
Exempt
contracts
Contracts exempt from the AusTender
Mandatory
180
Commonwealt Report on performance in implementing the
h Disability
Commonwealth Disability Strategy
Strategy
Mandatory
184
Financial
Statements
Mandatory
245-349
Financial Statements
nil to
report
405
Annual Report 2009-10
Part of Report Description
Other
Information
Requirement
Page
Occupational health and safety (section 74 of Mandatory
the Occupational Health and Safety Act
1991)
165-167
Freedom of Information (subsection 8(1) of
the Freedom of Information Act 1982)
Mandatory
196-215
Advertising and Market Research (Section
311A of the Commonwealth Electoral Act
1918) and statement on advertising
campaigns
Mandatory
221-222
Ecologically sustainable development and
Mandatory
environmental performance (Section 516A of
the Environment Protection and Biodiversity
Conservation Act 1999)
189-195
Grant programs
Mandatory
179
Correction of material errors in previous
annual report
If applicable,
mandatory
233-234
List of requirements
Mandatory
363-365
406