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Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 88
Supporting whole of Government initiatives
DPAC proactively develops and implements a range of initiatives and plans to support whole of
Government priorities The following pages detail the Departmentrsquos activities to support
Tasmania Together
Disability Action Plan
Carbon Emission Reduction Plan
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 89
Contribution to Tasmania Together benchmarks
As of June 2009 the Department of Premier and Cabinet had the Lead Agency responsibility for those Tasmania Together benchmarks listed below and is an
active contributor to a range of other benchmarks
The Departmentrsquos activity to further advance Tasmania towards achieving these benchmarks is detailed below A complete list of the benchmarks which this
Department has lead agency responsibility follows
SUPPORTING
BENCHMARK
INITIATIVE WHAT HAS BEEN ACHIEVED THIS YEAR
111
The cost of food
electricity
housing
transport and
health as a
percentage of
income for low-
income earners
112
Proportion of
households
where primary
source of income
is government
pensions or
Family Assistance
Program
Advice to State and
Australian Government
At School On Time
Ready for Work
Social Inclusion
Activities
In 2007-08 $350000 was granted under the Family Assistance Program to community organisations
to provide emergency relief and preventative support programs to Tasmanians in need along with
practical social policy research into areas associated with emergency relief
Ongoing analysis of data and other information relating to income security and the cost of living was
undertaken to ensure that the cost of government services was affordable
Tasmania participates in the Council of Australian Governments and the Council of the Australian
Federation which are developing and implementing policy strategies to address the cost of living for
Australians Tasmania also provided a response to the Australian Governmentrsquos Green and White
Papers on Homelessness
The Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide which outlines the range of State concessions available
to Tasmanianrsquos was issued The Guide assists those on low incomes in identifying and accessing
concessions for which they are eligible
The Tasmanian Government Concessions Project commenced The aim of this project is to enable
customers to more easily access information about concessions to which they may be entitled A
new website at wwwconcessionstasgovau has been implemented and the project will continue in
2009-10 to further enhance accessibility of concessions information
During 2007-08 the Government submitted responses to the Senate Inquiry into Affordable Housing
and the National Youth Commissionrsquos Inquiry into Youth Homelessness
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 90
DPAC
allowances
113
Proportion of
persons living in
households that
could not obtain
$2000 within a
week for
something
important
At School On Time Ready for Work is a whole-of-government whole-of-community response to the
issue of non-attendance at school A range of initiatives have been funded including phone
intervention school and community partnerships the co-pilots mentoring scheme an awareness
raising campaign support to the Home and School support Service operated by the Salvation Army
and a breakfast program trial with Australian Red Cross These programs focus on schools in areas
with a high proportion of families on low incomes
The Social Inclusion Unit progressed work on a Tasmanian Homelessness Plan adult and community
literacy and numeracy and the development of a whole-of-government and whole-of-community
social inclusion strategy for the State The strategy will provide opportunities for the most
disadvantaged Tasmanians to participate in the social economic and civic life of their community The
Social Inclusion Commissioner for Tasmania was appointed in December 2008 The Commissioner
will provide a strong voice for socially excluded and disadvantaged
Contribution towards benchmark
The achievement of progress under this Goal has been affected by factors outside the control of the
Department including the price of fuel drought and the downturn in international economies They are
issues that are being considered at a national level and by all states and territories
The Tasmanian Social Inclusion Strategy will help to generate solutions to benefit Tasmanians who often face
multiple challenges including poverty geographic isolation inter-generational disadvantage poor education
disability physical and mental health issues and other barriers The Strategy will therefore impact across a
number of Tasmania Together goals including Goal 1 (standard of living) Goal 3 (education) Goal 4 (health)
Goal 5 (supportive communities) Goal 6 (arts and cultural participation) Goal 8 (civic participation) and Goal
9 (work opportunities)
531
Per capita
voluntary
participation in
community and
service activities
in a 12-month
Guidelines for State
agency management of
volunteer activity
Activities
Whole-of-Government Guidelines for State Agency Management of Volunteer Activity was released
Contribution towards benchmark
The contribution of volunteers is crucial to the development and strengthening of our communities The
Whole-of-Government Guidelines for State Agency Management of Volunteer Activity have been developed as part
of the partnership agreement between the Tasmanian Government and Volunteering Tasmania and are
intended to improve the management of volunteer activity in the public sector
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 91
period The Guidelines reflect the principles of the National Standards for Involving Volunteers in Not-for-Profit
Organisations published by Volunteering Australia and are intended to assist Tasmanian Government agencies
that operate volunteer programs to manage their relationship with volunteers and to deliver volunteer
services
553
Participation of
young people in
community
groups
National Youth Week
Children and Young
People in Tasmania
(CAYPIT)
Activities
Over $66000 was allocated from the National Youth Week (NYW) grants program to 55
organisations to host 68 events This year Beyond Blue the National Depression Initiative provided over
$15000 to the Tasmanian Government to contribute to events activities and promotion throughout
the week
During NYW 09 organisations contributed to the success of NYW events and activities including 65
organisations that registered as official participants From the 89 events that were organised and
registered over 270 activities were made available to young people
Over 600 young people were involved in planning and developing 2009 NYW events including
dance parties arts and crafts festivals sporting activities survey ceremonies community projects
competitions workshops events and activities There was a good overall attendance at NYW events
and activities with nearly 12000 young people attending events across the State as well as over
2000 community members
Contribution towards benchmark
NYW is a call to action for young people to get involved and more importantly have fun regardless of
resources skills or abilities NYW gives young people
(12-25 years) an opportunity to express their ideas and views raise issues of concern to them act on issues
that affect their lives showcase their talents express their individuality and diversity and celebrate their
contribution to the community
Activities
The development of an online resource about children and young people in Tasmania (CAYPIT)
resulted from the review of the Young People in Tasmania (YPIT) Report The previous YPIT hard-copy
report provided a statistical and demographic profile of young people in Tasmania The CAYPIT
online resource improves the format and content by providing up-to-date links to relevant statistical
and qualitative data and reports in an easily accessible format It has been designed to inform a cross
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 92
Tasmanian Youth Forum
section of audiences including youth policy makers program planners and service providers at a
State regional and local level The CAYPIT online resource covers a broad range of topics including
education health and wellbeing and population demographics The resource has been expanded to
include a profile of Information Communications Technology (ICT) and additional youth related
topics will be developed on emerging issues such as body image and youth homelessness This
resource will continue to benefit from feedback provided from organisations in the community and
children and youth sectors
Contribution towards benchmark
CAYPIT is designed to facilitate statistics qualitative research and other information to a cross section of
audiences including young people policy makers program planners and service providers at a State regional
and local level The resource can be used in the development of effective participation initiatives and assist
young people to participate in an informed capacity
Activities
A pilot of the Tasmanian Youth Forum (TYF) was launched in September 2007 to build on and
extend the positive work of the former Tasmanian Youth Consultative Committee
The Forum pilot has broadened membership to include representation from local government youth
committees and non-government organisations
TYF identified four key priority areas for its work in 2008 education health community and rights
and produced a pilot evaluation report to inform the further development of the Forum
TYF held a youth accommodation and homelessness forum in Launceston in December 2008 which
produced a communiqueacute on TYFrsquos position TYF also participated in a consultation coordinated
through the Social inclusion Unit and Office of Children and Youth Affairs on the development of the
Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania The Forum participated in a national link up with over 1000
young people for the inaugural Australian Youth Forum (AYF) youTHINK Forum with the Australian
Government Youth Minister the Hon Kate Ellis to inform policy directions at a national level
Contribution towards benchmark
Tasmanian Youth Forum is as a forum for young people to advise government on issues that are of concern
to them It provides government agencies with access to a representative group of young people in Tasmania
for the purposes of obtaining input to government projects and consultations and provides a mechanism to
harness young peoplersquos enthusiasm and ideas relating to policy development and improved service delivery
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 93
for young people TYF promotes social inclusion for young people by aligning projects with the
recommendations of the Governmentrsquos Stronger Communities Taskforce and Social Inclusion Strategy
Youth Network of
Tasmania DEMIN Youth
Conference
Activities
The Youth Network of Tasmania (YNOT) the peak body for the non-government youth sector
convened the Develop Empower Network Inspire Motivate (DENIM) youth conference The
conference is for all young people aged from 12-24 who are or want to be involved in their
community It is a chance for young people to get together and initiate projects learn skills hear from
dynamic presenters and engage in workshops
From the three regions the 85 delegates that attended the conference represented 26 local
government areas Twenty workshops were offered with a third of these workshops being facilitated
or co-facilitated by young people The main issues that young people focussed on during the
conference included homelessness youth voice gay rights peer pressure language alcohol and drugs
Delegates included young people from King Island Flinders Island recently arrived refugees from
Bhutan other culturally and linguistically diverse groups and young Aboriginal Tasmanians In total 27
young people attended the conference due to additional donations and sponsorship from all tiers of
government Colony 47 St Vincent de Paul and Northern Youth Consultative Committee
Contribution towards benchmark
The conference provides a way of reaching out to marginalised youth in Tasmania by providing them with the
opportunity to participate fully in the community
Tasmanian Multicultural
Youth project
Activities
Multicultural Tasmania in partnership with the Australian Government private business and
community organisations initiated the Tasmanian Multicultural Youth project to provide an
opportunity for young people to enhance their leadership skills through involvement with older
migrants in the management of the International Wall of Friendship community organisation
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmanian Multicultural Youth project provides an opportunity for young people from diverse
backgrounds and religions to develop skills and confidence to integrate into the broader Tasmanian society
with the support of the older migrants
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 94
631
Number of
multicultural
events in
Tasmania
Promotion and support of
multicultural events in
Tasmania
Multicultural grants
programs
Activities
$38000 was provided to migrant communities and other organisations to support projects that
increase awareness and appreciation of the different cultures in Tasmania and the benefits they bring
to the community
The 2008 Multicultural Tasmania Calendar was produced
Contribution towards benchmark
The publication of the Multicultural Tasmania Calendar and support of programs to raise awareness of the
different cultural events in Tasmania and assists in promoting the value of Tasmaniarsquos diverse community
721
Number of
Aboriginal
identified
positions in the
State Service that
are filled by
Aboriginal people
or Torres Straight
Islanders
Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Fixed-term
Employment Register
Activities
In 2008-09 from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fixed-term Employment Register nine
Aboriginal people secured positions in the State Government four on a permanent full-time basis
and five on contract or short-term employment A further three Aboriginal identified positions were
approved by the State Service Commissioner
DPAC has a dedicated Aboriginal Employment and Career Development program A strong focus is
the recruitment of young Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders into the Tasmanian State
Sector through traineeships and cadetships Assistance is provided on an individual case management
basis and includes
career pathway planning and advice
understanding the State Service selection process
support in gaining essential prerequisites for positions
preparation and tailoring of resumes and written applications
interview practice
Mentoring issues resolution and career development opportunities are also provided for Aboriginal
people once they have secured employment within the Tasmanian Government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 95
731
Hectares of land
owned or
managed by the
Aboriginal
community
Aboriginal land program Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal community currently has ownership or management rights of
approximately 55617 hectares of land All but 104 hectares of this land is freehold The 104
hectares relates to a 40-year lease for larapuna (Eddystone Point)
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 77300 hectares 55617 hectares of land (as at 30 June 2009) represents 7195 per
cent of that total
741
Percentage of
Tasmanian
Aboriginal
cultural property
collections
repatriated
Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre is recognised as the appropriate agency for handling all repatriation
matters for Tasmania
Of the 37 collections of Tasmanian Aboriginal cultural property held in overseas collections three
had been repatriated by 30 June 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 25 per cent of 37 known overseas collections returned Three collections represent
811 per cent of that benchmark
811
Proportion of
people who think
there are
opportunities to
have a real say
on important
issues
Support for the Tasmania
Together Progress Board
Consultation for the
development of a social
inclusion strategy for
Tasmania
Activities
The Government continued to provide executive and secretariat support to the Tasmania Together
Progress Board
The Government has consulted widely with all spheres of government business and the community
on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
During November and December 2008 public forums were held in Zeehan Burnie East Devonport
George Town Ravenswood St Helens Geeveston Gagebrook Clarendon Vale Risdon Vale West
Moonah Dunalley and Campbell Town during which members of the community were invited to
give feedback on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 96
During January 2009 more forums were held in a number of Local Government areas including the
Central HighlandsSouthern Midlands Flinders Island and Cape Barren Island Forums have also been
held at menrsquos and womenrsquos minimum security at Risdon Prison Ashley Detention Centre and with
peak bodies and organisations representing the multicultural and Aboriginal communities as well as
the disability seniors youth and women cohort groups Public responses have also been encouraged
via the distribution of A Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania ndash A Consultation Paper and associated
brochure among local government and community organisations and through advertisements in the
media and on the DPAC website
The Stronger Communities Taskforce also conducted community consultations in the Derwent Valley
and Brighton Local Government areas in late 2008 regarding community capacity building and social
capital in those areas This will provide additional input to the development of the social inclusion
strategy
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmania Together Progress Board is an independent statutory authority established to promote
Tasmania Together to the broader community Tasmania Together is the communityrsquos 20-year social
environmental and economic plan for the Statersquos development and was developed through extensive
community consultation providing opportunities for all Tasmaniarsquos to have a say in the future of their State
812
Proportion of
people
participating in a
decision making
process
Support to Community
Groups
Stronger Communities
Taskforce
Activities
Support continued to be provided for a range of consultative committees and peak community
bodies including the Positive Ageing Advisory Committee the Tasmanian Advisory Council on
Multicultural Affairs the Youth Network of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Tasmanian
Womenrsquos Council Premierrsquos Local Government Council and the Premierrsquos Disability Advisory
Council
Contribution towards benchmark
The Departmentrsquos ongoing support to these groups gives a voice to community groups and provides a
mechanism for them to provide feedback to government
Activities
The Stronger Communities Taskforcersquos The State of Our Community Report 2007 Starting the
conversation was tabled in Parliament in March 2008 The Taskforces report profiles successful
community development programs operating in the community business and government sectors
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 97
The Taskforcersquos recommendations have been taken into account and its input sought and
incorporated into the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Contribution towards benchmark
The Stronger Communities Taskforce provides advice to the Premier on strategies to strengthen Tasmanian
communities and increase community connection and social inclusion
813
Proportion
participating in
Local
Government
elections
Activities
The Tasmanian Electoral Commission conducts local government elections in Tasmania on behalf of
councils Tasmanian local government elections are conducted by a non-compulsory postal ballot
The Government works with the Tasmanian Electoral Commission in raising pre-election awareness
through major media campaigns
Contribution towards benchmark
Since the introduction of universal postal voting in 1998 the level of participation in local government
elections has remained fairly steady at between 55 and 60 per cent
In 2008 the Premier announced his intention to implement compulsory voting in local government elections
Where full compulsory voting is utilised in other jurisdictions the participation rate is approximately 85 per
cent The Government is currently progressing development of this policy with the intention of having this
reform in place for the 2011 local government elections Introduction of compulsory voting would ensure
that this goal is met
814
Involvement in
community
action to
improve or
protect local
services or
activities
YMCA Youth Parliament Activities
The YMCA Youth Taskforce delivered the 2008 YMCA Youth Parliament Program and facilitated the
development and debate of a range of bills for the 33 young people who participated in the event
Eight Youth Bills were passed in 2008 Youth Parliament and 135 Youth Motions were also passed
To ensure the continuing success of the YMCA Youth Parliament DPAC negotiated a partnership
agreement between YMCA Australia and the Tasmanian Youth Government Association (TYGA) to
deliver the 2008 Youth Parliament
Contribution
The YMCA Youth Parliament is part of a national youth development program that provides young
Tasmanians with a forum for expressing ideas concerns and expectations regarding the future of the State
This event has been held since 1988 and is the second longest running Youth Parliament in Australia
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 98
Children and Youth
Advisory Services Funding
Tasmanian Early Years
Foundation
Activities
The $100000 Children and Youth Advisory Services (CAYAS) Funding Program formerly the Youth
Advisory Services Funding Program (YAS) provides grants of up to $5000 for projects to provide
information and opportunities for children (six - 12 years) and young people (12 - 25 years) In 2008-
09 the funding program introduced expanded funding opportunities for
o projects for both children aged six to 12 years and young people aged 12 to 25
o projects that promote social inclusion for marginalised children and young people
22 projects were funded in a diverse range of areas such as sexual and reproductive health self harm
prevention promoting healthy body image responding to drug and alcohol issues and developing
websites Many projects focused on disadvantaged and isolated young people
Contribution towards benchmark
The CAYAS program has a strong focus on projects that promote social inclusion and projects that actively
involve young people in addressing issues at a local level and build on existing strengths
Activities
The Foundationrsquos second annual grants program provided grants of under $10000 and grants over
$10000 to help communities improve the learning and developmental outcomes of Tasmanian
children Twenty-six projects were successful with a total funding of up to $313883
Initiatives funded included projects to supporting children to transition from child care to school
engage children in early literacy and numeracy kitchen gardens promoting healthy eating support for
geographically and isolated families and music therapy as a developmental tool to assist parents caring
for young children To assist in the supporting the community in grant writing the Foundation in
partnership with the Tasmanian Community Fund conducted three grant-writing workshops across
the State
The Foundation has been a strong advocate for the establishment of Child and Family Centres in
Tasmania by way of its learning and development program that focuses on professional development
needs for key staff across sectors including early childhood health education care and advocacy
The Foundation held a keynote speaker forum in July 2008 titled Early Childhood Education and Care
What can we learn from the international scene The Forum featured international early-childhood
education experts Professor Philip Gammage Professor Christine Pascal and Professor Tony Bertram
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 99
In October 2008 the Foundation held its inaugural Tasmanian Early Years Achievement Awards to
recognise the very important contributions of individuals in the community who assist young children
and their families
In November 2008 the Foundation sponsored a study tour to South Australia for government and
non-government early years professionals to visit child and family centres The aim of the study tour
was to gain a stronger understanding of the range of models operating as childrenrsquos centres in
Adelaide communities and to exchange ideas with policy planning and service delivery personnel
The group included staff from the Department of Education Department of Health and Human
Services Department of Premier and Cabinet the community sector and local government
In April 2009 the Foundation hosted a series of workshops across Tasmania by Dr Margy Whalley a
UK specialist in the development and management of child and family centres The aim of the
workshops was to support the professional development of staff in the implementation of the first
eight of the 30 child and family centres announced in March 2009
In May 2009 the Foundation in partnership with Mission Australia NiFTeY and Good Beginnings
held the Parenting in the Early Years Conference where early years experts discussed teen parenting
the importance of engaging fathers and strategies to deal with behavioural issues in children Up to
200 early years professionals from across Tasmania attended the conference
The Foundationrsquos Research Committee finalised its research project - Building the Evidence - an
Outcomes Based Framework and published a final report Outcomes in the Early Years the State of
Tasmaniarsquos Young Children illustrating its findings and recommendations
Contribution towards benchmark
Each grant project aims to provide children with the best possible start in life as a foundation for a healthy
happy and positive future thereby strengthening communitiesrsquo capacity to improve local services and activities
The speakersrsquo forums promote the importance of the early years and provide opportunities for professional
development within the sector thereby increasing community action to improve local services and activities
The learning and development program promotes the importance of the early years and provides
opportunities for professional development within the sector thereby increasing community action to
improve local services and activities
The objective of the research project was to develop an outcome based framework of indicators that would
assist TEYF to prioritise projects and initiatives and contribute to policy development and planning for all tiers
of government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 100
821
Percentage of
councils with
young advisory
committees
Local Government Youth
Services Survey
Activities
Since 1998 the Local Government Youth Services Survey has been distributed to councils to collect
information about the services programs facilities and issues that affect young people in each local
government area (LGA) In 2009 this biennial survey was redeveloped to gather information about
children aged zero to 12 The Survey will be distributed to councils early in the 2009-10 financial
year to gain information about children and young people for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 periods
Contribution towards benchmark
The Local Government Youth Services Survey Report provides a valuable tool to assist policy and planning for
councils and for the State Government
Innovate Include
Develop Local
Government Funding
program
Activities
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program (formerly the Local
Government Seed Funding program) provides $76000 in grants to encourage local councils to
increase youth participation In 2008-09 the funding program introduced expanded funding
opportunities for
initiatives for children (six-12 years) and young people (12-25 years)
projects that link models of participation that encourage children and young people to
become involved in their local community
learning training research and development projects
funding for one or two year projects
The grant program also supports the implementation of youth initiatives required under State and
Local Government Partnerships Agreements
Nine councils were funded through the Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding
Program for 2008-09
Contribution towards benchmark
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program continued to assist councils to increase
youth participation and planning by funding the development of youth policies and youth participatory
structures The majority of councils have youth advisory mechanisms and youth policies to assist them with
youth participation and development At the end of the financial year 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had
youth advisory mechanisms (and 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had a youth policy or strategy
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 101
Local Government
Partnership Agreements
Activities
The Department continued to be involved in evaluating or re-negotiating issues to be included in
Partnership Agreements with Central Highlands Glamorgan Spring Bay George Town West Coast
Northern Midlands and Circular Head Councils The partnership agreements promote councils
reviewing and developing their youth policies and participatory mechanisms
Contribution towards benchmark
The aim of the partnership agreements program is to find better ways of serving Tasmanian communities by
the two levels of government (State and local government) working together
Partnership agreements are part of the State Governments broader agenda of developing partnerships with
the community to find new opportunities for economic and social development
Local Government Youth
Forums Activities
More than 50 participants attended the ninth annual Local Government Youth Forum (the Forum) in
November 2008 coordinated by the Office of Children and Youth Affairs Twenty-one councils were
represented at the Forum as well as the Youth Network of Tasmania the Local Government
Association of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Participants included youth development
officers deputy mayors alderman councillors general managers and community services managers
Contribution towards benchmark
The annual Local Government Youth Forum supports the exploration and development of youth
participation mechanisms at the local government level It provides an important opportunity for councils to
showcase their youth initiatives and to share effective approaches to youth participation among the local
government youth sector
831
Number of State
Government
Regional
Community
Forums
Regional community
forums
Activities
The Premier announced in late 2007-08 a new program of regional forums The forums complement
the sitting of Parliament scheduled for the North and North-West
Contribution towards Benchmark
Community forums provide communities with the opportunity to have their say on issues direct to
government They help to establish better connections between government councils and the community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 89
Contribution to Tasmania Together benchmarks
As of June 2009 the Department of Premier and Cabinet had the Lead Agency responsibility for those Tasmania Together benchmarks listed below and is an
active contributor to a range of other benchmarks
The Departmentrsquos activity to further advance Tasmania towards achieving these benchmarks is detailed below A complete list of the benchmarks which this
Department has lead agency responsibility follows
SUPPORTING
BENCHMARK
INITIATIVE WHAT HAS BEEN ACHIEVED THIS YEAR
111
The cost of food
electricity
housing
transport and
health as a
percentage of
income for low-
income earners
112
Proportion of
households
where primary
source of income
is government
pensions or
Family Assistance
Program
Advice to State and
Australian Government
At School On Time
Ready for Work
Social Inclusion
Activities
In 2007-08 $350000 was granted under the Family Assistance Program to community organisations
to provide emergency relief and preventative support programs to Tasmanians in need along with
practical social policy research into areas associated with emergency relief
Ongoing analysis of data and other information relating to income security and the cost of living was
undertaken to ensure that the cost of government services was affordable
Tasmania participates in the Council of Australian Governments and the Council of the Australian
Federation which are developing and implementing policy strategies to address the cost of living for
Australians Tasmania also provided a response to the Australian Governmentrsquos Green and White
Papers on Homelessness
The Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide which outlines the range of State concessions available
to Tasmanianrsquos was issued The Guide assists those on low incomes in identifying and accessing
concessions for which they are eligible
The Tasmanian Government Concessions Project commenced The aim of this project is to enable
customers to more easily access information about concessions to which they may be entitled A
new website at wwwconcessionstasgovau has been implemented and the project will continue in
2009-10 to further enhance accessibility of concessions information
During 2007-08 the Government submitted responses to the Senate Inquiry into Affordable Housing
and the National Youth Commissionrsquos Inquiry into Youth Homelessness
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 90
DPAC
allowances
113
Proportion of
persons living in
households that
could not obtain
$2000 within a
week for
something
important
At School On Time Ready for Work is a whole-of-government whole-of-community response to the
issue of non-attendance at school A range of initiatives have been funded including phone
intervention school and community partnerships the co-pilots mentoring scheme an awareness
raising campaign support to the Home and School support Service operated by the Salvation Army
and a breakfast program trial with Australian Red Cross These programs focus on schools in areas
with a high proportion of families on low incomes
The Social Inclusion Unit progressed work on a Tasmanian Homelessness Plan adult and community
literacy and numeracy and the development of a whole-of-government and whole-of-community
social inclusion strategy for the State The strategy will provide opportunities for the most
disadvantaged Tasmanians to participate in the social economic and civic life of their community The
Social Inclusion Commissioner for Tasmania was appointed in December 2008 The Commissioner
will provide a strong voice for socially excluded and disadvantaged
Contribution towards benchmark
The achievement of progress under this Goal has been affected by factors outside the control of the
Department including the price of fuel drought and the downturn in international economies They are
issues that are being considered at a national level and by all states and territories
The Tasmanian Social Inclusion Strategy will help to generate solutions to benefit Tasmanians who often face
multiple challenges including poverty geographic isolation inter-generational disadvantage poor education
disability physical and mental health issues and other barriers The Strategy will therefore impact across a
number of Tasmania Together goals including Goal 1 (standard of living) Goal 3 (education) Goal 4 (health)
Goal 5 (supportive communities) Goal 6 (arts and cultural participation) Goal 8 (civic participation) and Goal
9 (work opportunities)
531
Per capita
voluntary
participation in
community and
service activities
in a 12-month
Guidelines for State
agency management of
volunteer activity
Activities
Whole-of-Government Guidelines for State Agency Management of Volunteer Activity was released
Contribution towards benchmark
The contribution of volunteers is crucial to the development and strengthening of our communities The
Whole-of-Government Guidelines for State Agency Management of Volunteer Activity have been developed as part
of the partnership agreement between the Tasmanian Government and Volunteering Tasmania and are
intended to improve the management of volunteer activity in the public sector
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 91
period The Guidelines reflect the principles of the National Standards for Involving Volunteers in Not-for-Profit
Organisations published by Volunteering Australia and are intended to assist Tasmanian Government agencies
that operate volunteer programs to manage their relationship with volunteers and to deliver volunteer
services
553
Participation of
young people in
community
groups
National Youth Week
Children and Young
People in Tasmania
(CAYPIT)
Activities
Over $66000 was allocated from the National Youth Week (NYW) grants program to 55
organisations to host 68 events This year Beyond Blue the National Depression Initiative provided over
$15000 to the Tasmanian Government to contribute to events activities and promotion throughout
the week
During NYW 09 organisations contributed to the success of NYW events and activities including 65
organisations that registered as official participants From the 89 events that were organised and
registered over 270 activities were made available to young people
Over 600 young people were involved in planning and developing 2009 NYW events including
dance parties arts and crafts festivals sporting activities survey ceremonies community projects
competitions workshops events and activities There was a good overall attendance at NYW events
and activities with nearly 12000 young people attending events across the State as well as over
2000 community members
Contribution towards benchmark
NYW is a call to action for young people to get involved and more importantly have fun regardless of
resources skills or abilities NYW gives young people
(12-25 years) an opportunity to express their ideas and views raise issues of concern to them act on issues
that affect their lives showcase their talents express their individuality and diversity and celebrate their
contribution to the community
Activities
The development of an online resource about children and young people in Tasmania (CAYPIT)
resulted from the review of the Young People in Tasmania (YPIT) Report The previous YPIT hard-copy
report provided a statistical and demographic profile of young people in Tasmania The CAYPIT
online resource improves the format and content by providing up-to-date links to relevant statistical
and qualitative data and reports in an easily accessible format It has been designed to inform a cross
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 92
Tasmanian Youth Forum
section of audiences including youth policy makers program planners and service providers at a
State regional and local level The CAYPIT online resource covers a broad range of topics including
education health and wellbeing and population demographics The resource has been expanded to
include a profile of Information Communications Technology (ICT) and additional youth related
topics will be developed on emerging issues such as body image and youth homelessness This
resource will continue to benefit from feedback provided from organisations in the community and
children and youth sectors
Contribution towards benchmark
CAYPIT is designed to facilitate statistics qualitative research and other information to a cross section of
audiences including young people policy makers program planners and service providers at a State regional
and local level The resource can be used in the development of effective participation initiatives and assist
young people to participate in an informed capacity
Activities
A pilot of the Tasmanian Youth Forum (TYF) was launched in September 2007 to build on and
extend the positive work of the former Tasmanian Youth Consultative Committee
The Forum pilot has broadened membership to include representation from local government youth
committees and non-government organisations
TYF identified four key priority areas for its work in 2008 education health community and rights
and produced a pilot evaluation report to inform the further development of the Forum
TYF held a youth accommodation and homelessness forum in Launceston in December 2008 which
produced a communiqueacute on TYFrsquos position TYF also participated in a consultation coordinated
through the Social inclusion Unit and Office of Children and Youth Affairs on the development of the
Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania The Forum participated in a national link up with over 1000
young people for the inaugural Australian Youth Forum (AYF) youTHINK Forum with the Australian
Government Youth Minister the Hon Kate Ellis to inform policy directions at a national level
Contribution towards benchmark
Tasmanian Youth Forum is as a forum for young people to advise government on issues that are of concern
to them It provides government agencies with access to a representative group of young people in Tasmania
for the purposes of obtaining input to government projects and consultations and provides a mechanism to
harness young peoplersquos enthusiasm and ideas relating to policy development and improved service delivery
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 93
for young people TYF promotes social inclusion for young people by aligning projects with the
recommendations of the Governmentrsquos Stronger Communities Taskforce and Social Inclusion Strategy
Youth Network of
Tasmania DEMIN Youth
Conference
Activities
The Youth Network of Tasmania (YNOT) the peak body for the non-government youth sector
convened the Develop Empower Network Inspire Motivate (DENIM) youth conference The
conference is for all young people aged from 12-24 who are or want to be involved in their
community It is a chance for young people to get together and initiate projects learn skills hear from
dynamic presenters and engage in workshops
From the three regions the 85 delegates that attended the conference represented 26 local
government areas Twenty workshops were offered with a third of these workshops being facilitated
or co-facilitated by young people The main issues that young people focussed on during the
conference included homelessness youth voice gay rights peer pressure language alcohol and drugs
Delegates included young people from King Island Flinders Island recently arrived refugees from
Bhutan other culturally and linguistically diverse groups and young Aboriginal Tasmanians In total 27
young people attended the conference due to additional donations and sponsorship from all tiers of
government Colony 47 St Vincent de Paul and Northern Youth Consultative Committee
Contribution towards benchmark
The conference provides a way of reaching out to marginalised youth in Tasmania by providing them with the
opportunity to participate fully in the community
Tasmanian Multicultural
Youth project
Activities
Multicultural Tasmania in partnership with the Australian Government private business and
community organisations initiated the Tasmanian Multicultural Youth project to provide an
opportunity for young people to enhance their leadership skills through involvement with older
migrants in the management of the International Wall of Friendship community organisation
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmanian Multicultural Youth project provides an opportunity for young people from diverse
backgrounds and religions to develop skills and confidence to integrate into the broader Tasmanian society
with the support of the older migrants
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 94
631
Number of
multicultural
events in
Tasmania
Promotion and support of
multicultural events in
Tasmania
Multicultural grants
programs
Activities
$38000 was provided to migrant communities and other organisations to support projects that
increase awareness and appreciation of the different cultures in Tasmania and the benefits they bring
to the community
The 2008 Multicultural Tasmania Calendar was produced
Contribution towards benchmark
The publication of the Multicultural Tasmania Calendar and support of programs to raise awareness of the
different cultural events in Tasmania and assists in promoting the value of Tasmaniarsquos diverse community
721
Number of
Aboriginal
identified
positions in the
State Service that
are filled by
Aboriginal people
or Torres Straight
Islanders
Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Fixed-term
Employment Register
Activities
In 2008-09 from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fixed-term Employment Register nine
Aboriginal people secured positions in the State Government four on a permanent full-time basis
and five on contract or short-term employment A further three Aboriginal identified positions were
approved by the State Service Commissioner
DPAC has a dedicated Aboriginal Employment and Career Development program A strong focus is
the recruitment of young Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders into the Tasmanian State
Sector through traineeships and cadetships Assistance is provided on an individual case management
basis and includes
career pathway planning and advice
understanding the State Service selection process
support in gaining essential prerequisites for positions
preparation and tailoring of resumes and written applications
interview practice
Mentoring issues resolution and career development opportunities are also provided for Aboriginal
people once they have secured employment within the Tasmanian Government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 95
731
Hectares of land
owned or
managed by the
Aboriginal
community
Aboriginal land program Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal community currently has ownership or management rights of
approximately 55617 hectares of land All but 104 hectares of this land is freehold The 104
hectares relates to a 40-year lease for larapuna (Eddystone Point)
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 77300 hectares 55617 hectares of land (as at 30 June 2009) represents 7195 per
cent of that total
741
Percentage of
Tasmanian
Aboriginal
cultural property
collections
repatriated
Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre is recognised as the appropriate agency for handling all repatriation
matters for Tasmania
Of the 37 collections of Tasmanian Aboriginal cultural property held in overseas collections three
had been repatriated by 30 June 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 25 per cent of 37 known overseas collections returned Three collections represent
811 per cent of that benchmark
811
Proportion of
people who think
there are
opportunities to
have a real say
on important
issues
Support for the Tasmania
Together Progress Board
Consultation for the
development of a social
inclusion strategy for
Tasmania
Activities
The Government continued to provide executive and secretariat support to the Tasmania Together
Progress Board
The Government has consulted widely with all spheres of government business and the community
on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
During November and December 2008 public forums were held in Zeehan Burnie East Devonport
George Town Ravenswood St Helens Geeveston Gagebrook Clarendon Vale Risdon Vale West
Moonah Dunalley and Campbell Town during which members of the community were invited to
give feedback on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 96
During January 2009 more forums were held in a number of Local Government areas including the
Central HighlandsSouthern Midlands Flinders Island and Cape Barren Island Forums have also been
held at menrsquos and womenrsquos minimum security at Risdon Prison Ashley Detention Centre and with
peak bodies and organisations representing the multicultural and Aboriginal communities as well as
the disability seniors youth and women cohort groups Public responses have also been encouraged
via the distribution of A Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania ndash A Consultation Paper and associated
brochure among local government and community organisations and through advertisements in the
media and on the DPAC website
The Stronger Communities Taskforce also conducted community consultations in the Derwent Valley
and Brighton Local Government areas in late 2008 regarding community capacity building and social
capital in those areas This will provide additional input to the development of the social inclusion
strategy
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmania Together Progress Board is an independent statutory authority established to promote
Tasmania Together to the broader community Tasmania Together is the communityrsquos 20-year social
environmental and economic plan for the Statersquos development and was developed through extensive
community consultation providing opportunities for all Tasmaniarsquos to have a say in the future of their State
812
Proportion of
people
participating in a
decision making
process
Support to Community
Groups
Stronger Communities
Taskforce
Activities
Support continued to be provided for a range of consultative committees and peak community
bodies including the Positive Ageing Advisory Committee the Tasmanian Advisory Council on
Multicultural Affairs the Youth Network of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Tasmanian
Womenrsquos Council Premierrsquos Local Government Council and the Premierrsquos Disability Advisory
Council
Contribution towards benchmark
The Departmentrsquos ongoing support to these groups gives a voice to community groups and provides a
mechanism for them to provide feedback to government
Activities
The Stronger Communities Taskforcersquos The State of Our Community Report 2007 Starting the
conversation was tabled in Parliament in March 2008 The Taskforces report profiles successful
community development programs operating in the community business and government sectors
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 97
The Taskforcersquos recommendations have been taken into account and its input sought and
incorporated into the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Contribution towards benchmark
The Stronger Communities Taskforce provides advice to the Premier on strategies to strengthen Tasmanian
communities and increase community connection and social inclusion
813
Proportion
participating in
Local
Government
elections
Activities
The Tasmanian Electoral Commission conducts local government elections in Tasmania on behalf of
councils Tasmanian local government elections are conducted by a non-compulsory postal ballot
The Government works with the Tasmanian Electoral Commission in raising pre-election awareness
through major media campaigns
Contribution towards benchmark
Since the introduction of universal postal voting in 1998 the level of participation in local government
elections has remained fairly steady at between 55 and 60 per cent
In 2008 the Premier announced his intention to implement compulsory voting in local government elections
Where full compulsory voting is utilised in other jurisdictions the participation rate is approximately 85 per
cent The Government is currently progressing development of this policy with the intention of having this
reform in place for the 2011 local government elections Introduction of compulsory voting would ensure
that this goal is met
814
Involvement in
community
action to
improve or
protect local
services or
activities
YMCA Youth Parliament Activities
The YMCA Youth Taskforce delivered the 2008 YMCA Youth Parliament Program and facilitated the
development and debate of a range of bills for the 33 young people who participated in the event
Eight Youth Bills were passed in 2008 Youth Parliament and 135 Youth Motions were also passed
To ensure the continuing success of the YMCA Youth Parliament DPAC negotiated a partnership
agreement between YMCA Australia and the Tasmanian Youth Government Association (TYGA) to
deliver the 2008 Youth Parliament
Contribution
The YMCA Youth Parliament is part of a national youth development program that provides young
Tasmanians with a forum for expressing ideas concerns and expectations regarding the future of the State
This event has been held since 1988 and is the second longest running Youth Parliament in Australia
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 98
Children and Youth
Advisory Services Funding
Tasmanian Early Years
Foundation
Activities
The $100000 Children and Youth Advisory Services (CAYAS) Funding Program formerly the Youth
Advisory Services Funding Program (YAS) provides grants of up to $5000 for projects to provide
information and opportunities for children (six - 12 years) and young people (12 - 25 years) In 2008-
09 the funding program introduced expanded funding opportunities for
o projects for both children aged six to 12 years and young people aged 12 to 25
o projects that promote social inclusion for marginalised children and young people
22 projects were funded in a diverse range of areas such as sexual and reproductive health self harm
prevention promoting healthy body image responding to drug and alcohol issues and developing
websites Many projects focused on disadvantaged and isolated young people
Contribution towards benchmark
The CAYAS program has a strong focus on projects that promote social inclusion and projects that actively
involve young people in addressing issues at a local level and build on existing strengths
Activities
The Foundationrsquos second annual grants program provided grants of under $10000 and grants over
$10000 to help communities improve the learning and developmental outcomes of Tasmanian
children Twenty-six projects were successful with a total funding of up to $313883
Initiatives funded included projects to supporting children to transition from child care to school
engage children in early literacy and numeracy kitchen gardens promoting healthy eating support for
geographically and isolated families and music therapy as a developmental tool to assist parents caring
for young children To assist in the supporting the community in grant writing the Foundation in
partnership with the Tasmanian Community Fund conducted three grant-writing workshops across
the State
The Foundation has been a strong advocate for the establishment of Child and Family Centres in
Tasmania by way of its learning and development program that focuses on professional development
needs for key staff across sectors including early childhood health education care and advocacy
The Foundation held a keynote speaker forum in July 2008 titled Early Childhood Education and Care
What can we learn from the international scene The Forum featured international early-childhood
education experts Professor Philip Gammage Professor Christine Pascal and Professor Tony Bertram
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 99
In October 2008 the Foundation held its inaugural Tasmanian Early Years Achievement Awards to
recognise the very important contributions of individuals in the community who assist young children
and their families
In November 2008 the Foundation sponsored a study tour to South Australia for government and
non-government early years professionals to visit child and family centres The aim of the study tour
was to gain a stronger understanding of the range of models operating as childrenrsquos centres in
Adelaide communities and to exchange ideas with policy planning and service delivery personnel
The group included staff from the Department of Education Department of Health and Human
Services Department of Premier and Cabinet the community sector and local government
In April 2009 the Foundation hosted a series of workshops across Tasmania by Dr Margy Whalley a
UK specialist in the development and management of child and family centres The aim of the
workshops was to support the professional development of staff in the implementation of the first
eight of the 30 child and family centres announced in March 2009
In May 2009 the Foundation in partnership with Mission Australia NiFTeY and Good Beginnings
held the Parenting in the Early Years Conference where early years experts discussed teen parenting
the importance of engaging fathers and strategies to deal with behavioural issues in children Up to
200 early years professionals from across Tasmania attended the conference
The Foundationrsquos Research Committee finalised its research project - Building the Evidence - an
Outcomes Based Framework and published a final report Outcomes in the Early Years the State of
Tasmaniarsquos Young Children illustrating its findings and recommendations
Contribution towards benchmark
Each grant project aims to provide children with the best possible start in life as a foundation for a healthy
happy and positive future thereby strengthening communitiesrsquo capacity to improve local services and activities
The speakersrsquo forums promote the importance of the early years and provide opportunities for professional
development within the sector thereby increasing community action to improve local services and activities
The learning and development program promotes the importance of the early years and provides
opportunities for professional development within the sector thereby increasing community action to
improve local services and activities
The objective of the research project was to develop an outcome based framework of indicators that would
assist TEYF to prioritise projects and initiatives and contribute to policy development and planning for all tiers
of government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 100
821
Percentage of
councils with
young advisory
committees
Local Government Youth
Services Survey
Activities
Since 1998 the Local Government Youth Services Survey has been distributed to councils to collect
information about the services programs facilities and issues that affect young people in each local
government area (LGA) In 2009 this biennial survey was redeveloped to gather information about
children aged zero to 12 The Survey will be distributed to councils early in the 2009-10 financial
year to gain information about children and young people for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 periods
Contribution towards benchmark
The Local Government Youth Services Survey Report provides a valuable tool to assist policy and planning for
councils and for the State Government
Innovate Include
Develop Local
Government Funding
program
Activities
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program (formerly the Local
Government Seed Funding program) provides $76000 in grants to encourage local councils to
increase youth participation In 2008-09 the funding program introduced expanded funding
opportunities for
initiatives for children (six-12 years) and young people (12-25 years)
projects that link models of participation that encourage children and young people to
become involved in their local community
learning training research and development projects
funding for one or two year projects
The grant program also supports the implementation of youth initiatives required under State and
Local Government Partnerships Agreements
Nine councils were funded through the Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding
Program for 2008-09
Contribution towards benchmark
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program continued to assist councils to increase
youth participation and planning by funding the development of youth policies and youth participatory
structures The majority of councils have youth advisory mechanisms and youth policies to assist them with
youth participation and development At the end of the financial year 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had
youth advisory mechanisms (and 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had a youth policy or strategy
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 101
Local Government
Partnership Agreements
Activities
The Department continued to be involved in evaluating or re-negotiating issues to be included in
Partnership Agreements with Central Highlands Glamorgan Spring Bay George Town West Coast
Northern Midlands and Circular Head Councils The partnership agreements promote councils
reviewing and developing their youth policies and participatory mechanisms
Contribution towards benchmark
The aim of the partnership agreements program is to find better ways of serving Tasmanian communities by
the two levels of government (State and local government) working together
Partnership agreements are part of the State Governments broader agenda of developing partnerships with
the community to find new opportunities for economic and social development
Local Government Youth
Forums Activities
More than 50 participants attended the ninth annual Local Government Youth Forum (the Forum) in
November 2008 coordinated by the Office of Children and Youth Affairs Twenty-one councils were
represented at the Forum as well as the Youth Network of Tasmania the Local Government
Association of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Participants included youth development
officers deputy mayors alderman councillors general managers and community services managers
Contribution towards benchmark
The annual Local Government Youth Forum supports the exploration and development of youth
participation mechanisms at the local government level It provides an important opportunity for councils to
showcase their youth initiatives and to share effective approaches to youth participation among the local
government youth sector
831
Number of State
Government
Regional
Community
Forums
Regional community
forums
Activities
The Premier announced in late 2007-08 a new program of regional forums The forums complement
the sitting of Parliament scheduled for the North and North-West
Contribution towards Benchmark
Community forums provide communities with the opportunity to have their say on issues direct to
government They help to establish better connections between government councils and the community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 90
DPAC
allowances
113
Proportion of
persons living in
households that
could not obtain
$2000 within a
week for
something
important
At School On Time Ready for Work is a whole-of-government whole-of-community response to the
issue of non-attendance at school A range of initiatives have been funded including phone
intervention school and community partnerships the co-pilots mentoring scheme an awareness
raising campaign support to the Home and School support Service operated by the Salvation Army
and a breakfast program trial with Australian Red Cross These programs focus on schools in areas
with a high proportion of families on low incomes
The Social Inclusion Unit progressed work on a Tasmanian Homelessness Plan adult and community
literacy and numeracy and the development of a whole-of-government and whole-of-community
social inclusion strategy for the State The strategy will provide opportunities for the most
disadvantaged Tasmanians to participate in the social economic and civic life of their community The
Social Inclusion Commissioner for Tasmania was appointed in December 2008 The Commissioner
will provide a strong voice for socially excluded and disadvantaged
Contribution towards benchmark
The achievement of progress under this Goal has been affected by factors outside the control of the
Department including the price of fuel drought and the downturn in international economies They are
issues that are being considered at a national level and by all states and territories
The Tasmanian Social Inclusion Strategy will help to generate solutions to benefit Tasmanians who often face
multiple challenges including poverty geographic isolation inter-generational disadvantage poor education
disability physical and mental health issues and other barriers The Strategy will therefore impact across a
number of Tasmania Together goals including Goal 1 (standard of living) Goal 3 (education) Goal 4 (health)
Goal 5 (supportive communities) Goal 6 (arts and cultural participation) Goal 8 (civic participation) and Goal
9 (work opportunities)
531
Per capita
voluntary
participation in
community and
service activities
in a 12-month
Guidelines for State
agency management of
volunteer activity
Activities
Whole-of-Government Guidelines for State Agency Management of Volunteer Activity was released
Contribution towards benchmark
The contribution of volunteers is crucial to the development and strengthening of our communities The
Whole-of-Government Guidelines for State Agency Management of Volunteer Activity have been developed as part
of the partnership agreement between the Tasmanian Government and Volunteering Tasmania and are
intended to improve the management of volunteer activity in the public sector
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 91
period The Guidelines reflect the principles of the National Standards for Involving Volunteers in Not-for-Profit
Organisations published by Volunteering Australia and are intended to assist Tasmanian Government agencies
that operate volunteer programs to manage their relationship with volunteers and to deliver volunteer
services
553
Participation of
young people in
community
groups
National Youth Week
Children and Young
People in Tasmania
(CAYPIT)
Activities
Over $66000 was allocated from the National Youth Week (NYW) grants program to 55
organisations to host 68 events This year Beyond Blue the National Depression Initiative provided over
$15000 to the Tasmanian Government to contribute to events activities and promotion throughout
the week
During NYW 09 organisations contributed to the success of NYW events and activities including 65
organisations that registered as official participants From the 89 events that were organised and
registered over 270 activities were made available to young people
Over 600 young people were involved in planning and developing 2009 NYW events including
dance parties arts and crafts festivals sporting activities survey ceremonies community projects
competitions workshops events and activities There was a good overall attendance at NYW events
and activities with nearly 12000 young people attending events across the State as well as over
2000 community members
Contribution towards benchmark
NYW is a call to action for young people to get involved and more importantly have fun regardless of
resources skills or abilities NYW gives young people
(12-25 years) an opportunity to express their ideas and views raise issues of concern to them act on issues
that affect their lives showcase their talents express their individuality and diversity and celebrate their
contribution to the community
Activities
The development of an online resource about children and young people in Tasmania (CAYPIT)
resulted from the review of the Young People in Tasmania (YPIT) Report The previous YPIT hard-copy
report provided a statistical and demographic profile of young people in Tasmania The CAYPIT
online resource improves the format and content by providing up-to-date links to relevant statistical
and qualitative data and reports in an easily accessible format It has been designed to inform a cross
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 92
Tasmanian Youth Forum
section of audiences including youth policy makers program planners and service providers at a
State regional and local level The CAYPIT online resource covers a broad range of topics including
education health and wellbeing and population demographics The resource has been expanded to
include a profile of Information Communications Technology (ICT) and additional youth related
topics will be developed on emerging issues such as body image and youth homelessness This
resource will continue to benefit from feedback provided from organisations in the community and
children and youth sectors
Contribution towards benchmark
CAYPIT is designed to facilitate statistics qualitative research and other information to a cross section of
audiences including young people policy makers program planners and service providers at a State regional
and local level The resource can be used in the development of effective participation initiatives and assist
young people to participate in an informed capacity
Activities
A pilot of the Tasmanian Youth Forum (TYF) was launched in September 2007 to build on and
extend the positive work of the former Tasmanian Youth Consultative Committee
The Forum pilot has broadened membership to include representation from local government youth
committees and non-government organisations
TYF identified four key priority areas for its work in 2008 education health community and rights
and produced a pilot evaluation report to inform the further development of the Forum
TYF held a youth accommodation and homelessness forum in Launceston in December 2008 which
produced a communiqueacute on TYFrsquos position TYF also participated in a consultation coordinated
through the Social inclusion Unit and Office of Children and Youth Affairs on the development of the
Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania The Forum participated in a national link up with over 1000
young people for the inaugural Australian Youth Forum (AYF) youTHINK Forum with the Australian
Government Youth Minister the Hon Kate Ellis to inform policy directions at a national level
Contribution towards benchmark
Tasmanian Youth Forum is as a forum for young people to advise government on issues that are of concern
to them It provides government agencies with access to a representative group of young people in Tasmania
for the purposes of obtaining input to government projects and consultations and provides a mechanism to
harness young peoplersquos enthusiasm and ideas relating to policy development and improved service delivery
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 93
for young people TYF promotes social inclusion for young people by aligning projects with the
recommendations of the Governmentrsquos Stronger Communities Taskforce and Social Inclusion Strategy
Youth Network of
Tasmania DEMIN Youth
Conference
Activities
The Youth Network of Tasmania (YNOT) the peak body for the non-government youth sector
convened the Develop Empower Network Inspire Motivate (DENIM) youth conference The
conference is for all young people aged from 12-24 who are or want to be involved in their
community It is a chance for young people to get together and initiate projects learn skills hear from
dynamic presenters and engage in workshops
From the three regions the 85 delegates that attended the conference represented 26 local
government areas Twenty workshops were offered with a third of these workshops being facilitated
or co-facilitated by young people The main issues that young people focussed on during the
conference included homelessness youth voice gay rights peer pressure language alcohol and drugs
Delegates included young people from King Island Flinders Island recently arrived refugees from
Bhutan other culturally and linguistically diverse groups and young Aboriginal Tasmanians In total 27
young people attended the conference due to additional donations and sponsorship from all tiers of
government Colony 47 St Vincent de Paul and Northern Youth Consultative Committee
Contribution towards benchmark
The conference provides a way of reaching out to marginalised youth in Tasmania by providing them with the
opportunity to participate fully in the community
Tasmanian Multicultural
Youth project
Activities
Multicultural Tasmania in partnership with the Australian Government private business and
community organisations initiated the Tasmanian Multicultural Youth project to provide an
opportunity for young people to enhance their leadership skills through involvement with older
migrants in the management of the International Wall of Friendship community organisation
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmanian Multicultural Youth project provides an opportunity for young people from diverse
backgrounds and religions to develop skills and confidence to integrate into the broader Tasmanian society
with the support of the older migrants
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 94
631
Number of
multicultural
events in
Tasmania
Promotion and support of
multicultural events in
Tasmania
Multicultural grants
programs
Activities
$38000 was provided to migrant communities and other organisations to support projects that
increase awareness and appreciation of the different cultures in Tasmania and the benefits they bring
to the community
The 2008 Multicultural Tasmania Calendar was produced
Contribution towards benchmark
The publication of the Multicultural Tasmania Calendar and support of programs to raise awareness of the
different cultural events in Tasmania and assists in promoting the value of Tasmaniarsquos diverse community
721
Number of
Aboriginal
identified
positions in the
State Service that
are filled by
Aboriginal people
or Torres Straight
Islanders
Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Fixed-term
Employment Register
Activities
In 2008-09 from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fixed-term Employment Register nine
Aboriginal people secured positions in the State Government four on a permanent full-time basis
and five on contract or short-term employment A further three Aboriginal identified positions were
approved by the State Service Commissioner
DPAC has a dedicated Aboriginal Employment and Career Development program A strong focus is
the recruitment of young Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders into the Tasmanian State
Sector through traineeships and cadetships Assistance is provided on an individual case management
basis and includes
career pathway planning and advice
understanding the State Service selection process
support in gaining essential prerequisites for positions
preparation and tailoring of resumes and written applications
interview practice
Mentoring issues resolution and career development opportunities are also provided for Aboriginal
people once they have secured employment within the Tasmanian Government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 95
731
Hectares of land
owned or
managed by the
Aboriginal
community
Aboriginal land program Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal community currently has ownership or management rights of
approximately 55617 hectares of land All but 104 hectares of this land is freehold The 104
hectares relates to a 40-year lease for larapuna (Eddystone Point)
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 77300 hectares 55617 hectares of land (as at 30 June 2009) represents 7195 per
cent of that total
741
Percentage of
Tasmanian
Aboriginal
cultural property
collections
repatriated
Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre is recognised as the appropriate agency for handling all repatriation
matters for Tasmania
Of the 37 collections of Tasmanian Aboriginal cultural property held in overseas collections three
had been repatriated by 30 June 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 25 per cent of 37 known overseas collections returned Three collections represent
811 per cent of that benchmark
811
Proportion of
people who think
there are
opportunities to
have a real say
on important
issues
Support for the Tasmania
Together Progress Board
Consultation for the
development of a social
inclusion strategy for
Tasmania
Activities
The Government continued to provide executive and secretariat support to the Tasmania Together
Progress Board
The Government has consulted widely with all spheres of government business and the community
on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
During November and December 2008 public forums were held in Zeehan Burnie East Devonport
George Town Ravenswood St Helens Geeveston Gagebrook Clarendon Vale Risdon Vale West
Moonah Dunalley and Campbell Town during which members of the community were invited to
give feedback on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 96
During January 2009 more forums were held in a number of Local Government areas including the
Central HighlandsSouthern Midlands Flinders Island and Cape Barren Island Forums have also been
held at menrsquos and womenrsquos minimum security at Risdon Prison Ashley Detention Centre and with
peak bodies and organisations representing the multicultural and Aboriginal communities as well as
the disability seniors youth and women cohort groups Public responses have also been encouraged
via the distribution of A Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania ndash A Consultation Paper and associated
brochure among local government and community organisations and through advertisements in the
media and on the DPAC website
The Stronger Communities Taskforce also conducted community consultations in the Derwent Valley
and Brighton Local Government areas in late 2008 regarding community capacity building and social
capital in those areas This will provide additional input to the development of the social inclusion
strategy
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmania Together Progress Board is an independent statutory authority established to promote
Tasmania Together to the broader community Tasmania Together is the communityrsquos 20-year social
environmental and economic plan for the Statersquos development and was developed through extensive
community consultation providing opportunities for all Tasmaniarsquos to have a say in the future of their State
812
Proportion of
people
participating in a
decision making
process
Support to Community
Groups
Stronger Communities
Taskforce
Activities
Support continued to be provided for a range of consultative committees and peak community
bodies including the Positive Ageing Advisory Committee the Tasmanian Advisory Council on
Multicultural Affairs the Youth Network of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Tasmanian
Womenrsquos Council Premierrsquos Local Government Council and the Premierrsquos Disability Advisory
Council
Contribution towards benchmark
The Departmentrsquos ongoing support to these groups gives a voice to community groups and provides a
mechanism for them to provide feedback to government
Activities
The Stronger Communities Taskforcersquos The State of Our Community Report 2007 Starting the
conversation was tabled in Parliament in March 2008 The Taskforces report profiles successful
community development programs operating in the community business and government sectors
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 97
The Taskforcersquos recommendations have been taken into account and its input sought and
incorporated into the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Contribution towards benchmark
The Stronger Communities Taskforce provides advice to the Premier on strategies to strengthen Tasmanian
communities and increase community connection and social inclusion
813
Proportion
participating in
Local
Government
elections
Activities
The Tasmanian Electoral Commission conducts local government elections in Tasmania on behalf of
councils Tasmanian local government elections are conducted by a non-compulsory postal ballot
The Government works with the Tasmanian Electoral Commission in raising pre-election awareness
through major media campaigns
Contribution towards benchmark
Since the introduction of universal postal voting in 1998 the level of participation in local government
elections has remained fairly steady at between 55 and 60 per cent
In 2008 the Premier announced his intention to implement compulsory voting in local government elections
Where full compulsory voting is utilised in other jurisdictions the participation rate is approximately 85 per
cent The Government is currently progressing development of this policy with the intention of having this
reform in place for the 2011 local government elections Introduction of compulsory voting would ensure
that this goal is met
814
Involvement in
community
action to
improve or
protect local
services or
activities
YMCA Youth Parliament Activities
The YMCA Youth Taskforce delivered the 2008 YMCA Youth Parliament Program and facilitated the
development and debate of a range of bills for the 33 young people who participated in the event
Eight Youth Bills were passed in 2008 Youth Parliament and 135 Youth Motions were also passed
To ensure the continuing success of the YMCA Youth Parliament DPAC negotiated a partnership
agreement between YMCA Australia and the Tasmanian Youth Government Association (TYGA) to
deliver the 2008 Youth Parliament
Contribution
The YMCA Youth Parliament is part of a national youth development program that provides young
Tasmanians with a forum for expressing ideas concerns and expectations regarding the future of the State
This event has been held since 1988 and is the second longest running Youth Parliament in Australia
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 98
Children and Youth
Advisory Services Funding
Tasmanian Early Years
Foundation
Activities
The $100000 Children and Youth Advisory Services (CAYAS) Funding Program formerly the Youth
Advisory Services Funding Program (YAS) provides grants of up to $5000 for projects to provide
information and opportunities for children (six - 12 years) and young people (12 - 25 years) In 2008-
09 the funding program introduced expanded funding opportunities for
o projects for both children aged six to 12 years and young people aged 12 to 25
o projects that promote social inclusion for marginalised children and young people
22 projects were funded in a diverse range of areas such as sexual and reproductive health self harm
prevention promoting healthy body image responding to drug and alcohol issues and developing
websites Many projects focused on disadvantaged and isolated young people
Contribution towards benchmark
The CAYAS program has a strong focus on projects that promote social inclusion and projects that actively
involve young people in addressing issues at a local level and build on existing strengths
Activities
The Foundationrsquos second annual grants program provided grants of under $10000 and grants over
$10000 to help communities improve the learning and developmental outcomes of Tasmanian
children Twenty-six projects were successful with a total funding of up to $313883
Initiatives funded included projects to supporting children to transition from child care to school
engage children in early literacy and numeracy kitchen gardens promoting healthy eating support for
geographically and isolated families and music therapy as a developmental tool to assist parents caring
for young children To assist in the supporting the community in grant writing the Foundation in
partnership with the Tasmanian Community Fund conducted three grant-writing workshops across
the State
The Foundation has been a strong advocate for the establishment of Child and Family Centres in
Tasmania by way of its learning and development program that focuses on professional development
needs for key staff across sectors including early childhood health education care and advocacy
The Foundation held a keynote speaker forum in July 2008 titled Early Childhood Education and Care
What can we learn from the international scene The Forum featured international early-childhood
education experts Professor Philip Gammage Professor Christine Pascal and Professor Tony Bertram
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 99
In October 2008 the Foundation held its inaugural Tasmanian Early Years Achievement Awards to
recognise the very important contributions of individuals in the community who assist young children
and their families
In November 2008 the Foundation sponsored a study tour to South Australia for government and
non-government early years professionals to visit child and family centres The aim of the study tour
was to gain a stronger understanding of the range of models operating as childrenrsquos centres in
Adelaide communities and to exchange ideas with policy planning and service delivery personnel
The group included staff from the Department of Education Department of Health and Human
Services Department of Premier and Cabinet the community sector and local government
In April 2009 the Foundation hosted a series of workshops across Tasmania by Dr Margy Whalley a
UK specialist in the development and management of child and family centres The aim of the
workshops was to support the professional development of staff in the implementation of the first
eight of the 30 child and family centres announced in March 2009
In May 2009 the Foundation in partnership with Mission Australia NiFTeY and Good Beginnings
held the Parenting in the Early Years Conference where early years experts discussed teen parenting
the importance of engaging fathers and strategies to deal with behavioural issues in children Up to
200 early years professionals from across Tasmania attended the conference
The Foundationrsquos Research Committee finalised its research project - Building the Evidence - an
Outcomes Based Framework and published a final report Outcomes in the Early Years the State of
Tasmaniarsquos Young Children illustrating its findings and recommendations
Contribution towards benchmark
Each grant project aims to provide children with the best possible start in life as a foundation for a healthy
happy and positive future thereby strengthening communitiesrsquo capacity to improve local services and activities
The speakersrsquo forums promote the importance of the early years and provide opportunities for professional
development within the sector thereby increasing community action to improve local services and activities
The learning and development program promotes the importance of the early years and provides
opportunities for professional development within the sector thereby increasing community action to
improve local services and activities
The objective of the research project was to develop an outcome based framework of indicators that would
assist TEYF to prioritise projects and initiatives and contribute to policy development and planning for all tiers
of government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 100
821
Percentage of
councils with
young advisory
committees
Local Government Youth
Services Survey
Activities
Since 1998 the Local Government Youth Services Survey has been distributed to councils to collect
information about the services programs facilities and issues that affect young people in each local
government area (LGA) In 2009 this biennial survey was redeveloped to gather information about
children aged zero to 12 The Survey will be distributed to councils early in the 2009-10 financial
year to gain information about children and young people for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 periods
Contribution towards benchmark
The Local Government Youth Services Survey Report provides a valuable tool to assist policy and planning for
councils and for the State Government
Innovate Include
Develop Local
Government Funding
program
Activities
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program (formerly the Local
Government Seed Funding program) provides $76000 in grants to encourage local councils to
increase youth participation In 2008-09 the funding program introduced expanded funding
opportunities for
initiatives for children (six-12 years) and young people (12-25 years)
projects that link models of participation that encourage children and young people to
become involved in their local community
learning training research and development projects
funding for one or two year projects
The grant program also supports the implementation of youth initiatives required under State and
Local Government Partnerships Agreements
Nine councils were funded through the Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding
Program for 2008-09
Contribution towards benchmark
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program continued to assist councils to increase
youth participation and planning by funding the development of youth policies and youth participatory
structures The majority of councils have youth advisory mechanisms and youth policies to assist them with
youth participation and development At the end of the financial year 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had
youth advisory mechanisms (and 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had a youth policy or strategy
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 101
Local Government
Partnership Agreements
Activities
The Department continued to be involved in evaluating or re-negotiating issues to be included in
Partnership Agreements with Central Highlands Glamorgan Spring Bay George Town West Coast
Northern Midlands and Circular Head Councils The partnership agreements promote councils
reviewing and developing their youth policies and participatory mechanisms
Contribution towards benchmark
The aim of the partnership agreements program is to find better ways of serving Tasmanian communities by
the two levels of government (State and local government) working together
Partnership agreements are part of the State Governments broader agenda of developing partnerships with
the community to find new opportunities for economic and social development
Local Government Youth
Forums Activities
More than 50 participants attended the ninth annual Local Government Youth Forum (the Forum) in
November 2008 coordinated by the Office of Children and Youth Affairs Twenty-one councils were
represented at the Forum as well as the Youth Network of Tasmania the Local Government
Association of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Participants included youth development
officers deputy mayors alderman councillors general managers and community services managers
Contribution towards benchmark
The annual Local Government Youth Forum supports the exploration and development of youth
participation mechanisms at the local government level It provides an important opportunity for councils to
showcase their youth initiatives and to share effective approaches to youth participation among the local
government youth sector
831
Number of State
Government
Regional
Community
Forums
Regional community
forums
Activities
The Premier announced in late 2007-08 a new program of regional forums The forums complement
the sitting of Parliament scheduled for the North and North-West
Contribution towards Benchmark
Community forums provide communities with the opportunity to have their say on issues direct to
government They help to establish better connections between government councils and the community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 91
period The Guidelines reflect the principles of the National Standards for Involving Volunteers in Not-for-Profit
Organisations published by Volunteering Australia and are intended to assist Tasmanian Government agencies
that operate volunteer programs to manage their relationship with volunteers and to deliver volunteer
services
553
Participation of
young people in
community
groups
National Youth Week
Children and Young
People in Tasmania
(CAYPIT)
Activities
Over $66000 was allocated from the National Youth Week (NYW) grants program to 55
organisations to host 68 events This year Beyond Blue the National Depression Initiative provided over
$15000 to the Tasmanian Government to contribute to events activities and promotion throughout
the week
During NYW 09 organisations contributed to the success of NYW events and activities including 65
organisations that registered as official participants From the 89 events that were organised and
registered over 270 activities were made available to young people
Over 600 young people were involved in planning and developing 2009 NYW events including
dance parties arts and crafts festivals sporting activities survey ceremonies community projects
competitions workshops events and activities There was a good overall attendance at NYW events
and activities with nearly 12000 young people attending events across the State as well as over
2000 community members
Contribution towards benchmark
NYW is a call to action for young people to get involved and more importantly have fun regardless of
resources skills or abilities NYW gives young people
(12-25 years) an opportunity to express their ideas and views raise issues of concern to them act on issues
that affect their lives showcase their talents express their individuality and diversity and celebrate their
contribution to the community
Activities
The development of an online resource about children and young people in Tasmania (CAYPIT)
resulted from the review of the Young People in Tasmania (YPIT) Report The previous YPIT hard-copy
report provided a statistical and demographic profile of young people in Tasmania The CAYPIT
online resource improves the format and content by providing up-to-date links to relevant statistical
and qualitative data and reports in an easily accessible format It has been designed to inform a cross
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 92
Tasmanian Youth Forum
section of audiences including youth policy makers program planners and service providers at a
State regional and local level The CAYPIT online resource covers a broad range of topics including
education health and wellbeing and population demographics The resource has been expanded to
include a profile of Information Communications Technology (ICT) and additional youth related
topics will be developed on emerging issues such as body image and youth homelessness This
resource will continue to benefit from feedback provided from organisations in the community and
children and youth sectors
Contribution towards benchmark
CAYPIT is designed to facilitate statistics qualitative research and other information to a cross section of
audiences including young people policy makers program planners and service providers at a State regional
and local level The resource can be used in the development of effective participation initiatives and assist
young people to participate in an informed capacity
Activities
A pilot of the Tasmanian Youth Forum (TYF) was launched in September 2007 to build on and
extend the positive work of the former Tasmanian Youth Consultative Committee
The Forum pilot has broadened membership to include representation from local government youth
committees and non-government organisations
TYF identified four key priority areas for its work in 2008 education health community and rights
and produced a pilot evaluation report to inform the further development of the Forum
TYF held a youth accommodation and homelessness forum in Launceston in December 2008 which
produced a communiqueacute on TYFrsquos position TYF also participated in a consultation coordinated
through the Social inclusion Unit and Office of Children and Youth Affairs on the development of the
Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania The Forum participated in a national link up with over 1000
young people for the inaugural Australian Youth Forum (AYF) youTHINK Forum with the Australian
Government Youth Minister the Hon Kate Ellis to inform policy directions at a national level
Contribution towards benchmark
Tasmanian Youth Forum is as a forum for young people to advise government on issues that are of concern
to them It provides government agencies with access to a representative group of young people in Tasmania
for the purposes of obtaining input to government projects and consultations and provides a mechanism to
harness young peoplersquos enthusiasm and ideas relating to policy development and improved service delivery
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 93
for young people TYF promotes social inclusion for young people by aligning projects with the
recommendations of the Governmentrsquos Stronger Communities Taskforce and Social Inclusion Strategy
Youth Network of
Tasmania DEMIN Youth
Conference
Activities
The Youth Network of Tasmania (YNOT) the peak body for the non-government youth sector
convened the Develop Empower Network Inspire Motivate (DENIM) youth conference The
conference is for all young people aged from 12-24 who are or want to be involved in their
community It is a chance for young people to get together and initiate projects learn skills hear from
dynamic presenters and engage in workshops
From the three regions the 85 delegates that attended the conference represented 26 local
government areas Twenty workshops were offered with a third of these workshops being facilitated
or co-facilitated by young people The main issues that young people focussed on during the
conference included homelessness youth voice gay rights peer pressure language alcohol and drugs
Delegates included young people from King Island Flinders Island recently arrived refugees from
Bhutan other culturally and linguistically diverse groups and young Aboriginal Tasmanians In total 27
young people attended the conference due to additional donations and sponsorship from all tiers of
government Colony 47 St Vincent de Paul and Northern Youth Consultative Committee
Contribution towards benchmark
The conference provides a way of reaching out to marginalised youth in Tasmania by providing them with the
opportunity to participate fully in the community
Tasmanian Multicultural
Youth project
Activities
Multicultural Tasmania in partnership with the Australian Government private business and
community organisations initiated the Tasmanian Multicultural Youth project to provide an
opportunity for young people to enhance their leadership skills through involvement with older
migrants in the management of the International Wall of Friendship community organisation
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmanian Multicultural Youth project provides an opportunity for young people from diverse
backgrounds and religions to develop skills and confidence to integrate into the broader Tasmanian society
with the support of the older migrants
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 94
631
Number of
multicultural
events in
Tasmania
Promotion and support of
multicultural events in
Tasmania
Multicultural grants
programs
Activities
$38000 was provided to migrant communities and other organisations to support projects that
increase awareness and appreciation of the different cultures in Tasmania and the benefits they bring
to the community
The 2008 Multicultural Tasmania Calendar was produced
Contribution towards benchmark
The publication of the Multicultural Tasmania Calendar and support of programs to raise awareness of the
different cultural events in Tasmania and assists in promoting the value of Tasmaniarsquos diverse community
721
Number of
Aboriginal
identified
positions in the
State Service that
are filled by
Aboriginal people
or Torres Straight
Islanders
Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Fixed-term
Employment Register
Activities
In 2008-09 from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fixed-term Employment Register nine
Aboriginal people secured positions in the State Government four on a permanent full-time basis
and five on contract or short-term employment A further three Aboriginal identified positions were
approved by the State Service Commissioner
DPAC has a dedicated Aboriginal Employment and Career Development program A strong focus is
the recruitment of young Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders into the Tasmanian State
Sector through traineeships and cadetships Assistance is provided on an individual case management
basis and includes
career pathway planning and advice
understanding the State Service selection process
support in gaining essential prerequisites for positions
preparation and tailoring of resumes and written applications
interview practice
Mentoring issues resolution and career development opportunities are also provided for Aboriginal
people once they have secured employment within the Tasmanian Government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 95
731
Hectares of land
owned or
managed by the
Aboriginal
community
Aboriginal land program Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal community currently has ownership or management rights of
approximately 55617 hectares of land All but 104 hectares of this land is freehold The 104
hectares relates to a 40-year lease for larapuna (Eddystone Point)
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 77300 hectares 55617 hectares of land (as at 30 June 2009) represents 7195 per
cent of that total
741
Percentage of
Tasmanian
Aboriginal
cultural property
collections
repatriated
Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre is recognised as the appropriate agency for handling all repatriation
matters for Tasmania
Of the 37 collections of Tasmanian Aboriginal cultural property held in overseas collections three
had been repatriated by 30 June 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 25 per cent of 37 known overseas collections returned Three collections represent
811 per cent of that benchmark
811
Proportion of
people who think
there are
opportunities to
have a real say
on important
issues
Support for the Tasmania
Together Progress Board
Consultation for the
development of a social
inclusion strategy for
Tasmania
Activities
The Government continued to provide executive and secretariat support to the Tasmania Together
Progress Board
The Government has consulted widely with all spheres of government business and the community
on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
During November and December 2008 public forums were held in Zeehan Burnie East Devonport
George Town Ravenswood St Helens Geeveston Gagebrook Clarendon Vale Risdon Vale West
Moonah Dunalley and Campbell Town during which members of the community were invited to
give feedback on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 96
During January 2009 more forums were held in a number of Local Government areas including the
Central HighlandsSouthern Midlands Flinders Island and Cape Barren Island Forums have also been
held at menrsquos and womenrsquos minimum security at Risdon Prison Ashley Detention Centre and with
peak bodies and organisations representing the multicultural and Aboriginal communities as well as
the disability seniors youth and women cohort groups Public responses have also been encouraged
via the distribution of A Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania ndash A Consultation Paper and associated
brochure among local government and community organisations and through advertisements in the
media and on the DPAC website
The Stronger Communities Taskforce also conducted community consultations in the Derwent Valley
and Brighton Local Government areas in late 2008 regarding community capacity building and social
capital in those areas This will provide additional input to the development of the social inclusion
strategy
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmania Together Progress Board is an independent statutory authority established to promote
Tasmania Together to the broader community Tasmania Together is the communityrsquos 20-year social
environmental and economic plan for the Statersquos development and was developed through extensive
community consultation providing opportunities for all Tasmaniarsquos to have a say in the future of their State
812
Proportion of
people
participating in a
decision making
process
Support to Community
Groups
Stronger Communities
Taskforce
Activities
Support continued to be provided for a range of consultative committees and peak community
bodies including the Positive Ageing Advisory Committee the Tasmanian Advisory Council on
Multicultural Affairs the Youth Network of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Tasmanian
Womenrsquos Council Premierrsquos Local Government Council and the Premierrsquos Disability Advisory
Council
Contribution towards benchmark
The Departmentrsquos ongoing support to these groups gives a voice to community groups and provides a
mechanism for them to provide feedback to government
Activities
The Stronger Communities Taskforcersquos The State of Our Community Report 2007 Starting the
conversation was tabled in Parliament in March 2008 The Taskforces report profiles successful
community development programs operating in the community business and government sectors
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 97
The Taskforcersquos recommendations have been taken into account and its input sought and
incorporated into the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Contribution towards benchmark
The Stronger Communities Taskforce provides advice to the Premier on strategies to strengthen Tasmanian
communities and increase community connection and social inclusion
813
Proportion
participating in
Local
Government
elections
Activities
The Tasmanian Electoral Commission conducts local government elections in Tasmania on behalf of
councils Tasmanian local government elections are conducted by a non-compulsory postal ballot
The Government works with the Tasmanian Electoral Commission in raising pre-election awareness
through major media campaigns
Contribution towards benchmark
Since the introduction of universal postal voting in 1998 the level of participation in local government
elections has remained fairly steady at between 55 and 60 per cent
In 2008 the Premier announced his intention to implement compulsory voting in local government elections
Where full compulsory voting is utilised in other jurisdictions the participation rate is approximately 85 per
cent The Government is currently progressing development of this policy with the intention of having this
reform in place for the 2011 local government elections Introduction of compulsory voting would ensure
that this goal is met
814
Involvement in
community
action to
improve or
protect local
services or
activities
YMCA Youth Parliament Activities
The YMCA Youth Taskforce delivered the 2008 YMCA Youth Parliament Program and facilitated the
development and debate of a range of bills for the 33 young people who participated in the event
Eight Youth Bills were passed in 2008 Youth Parliament and 135 Youth Motions were also passed
To ensure the continuing success of the YMCA Youth Parliament DPAC negotiated a partnership
agreement between YMCA Australia and the Tasmanian Youth Government Association (TYGA) to
deliver the 2008 Youth Parliament
Contribution
The YMCA Youth Parliament is part of a national youth development program that provides young
Tasmanians with a forum for expressing ideas concerns and expectations regarding the future of the State
This event has been held since 1988 and is the second longest running Youth Parliament in Australia
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 98
Children and Youth
Advisory Services Funding
Tasmanian Early Years
Foundation
Activities
The $100000 Children and Youth Advisory Services (CAYAS) Funding Program formerly the Youth
Advisory Services Funding Program (YAS) provides grants of up to $5000 for projects to provide
information and opportunities for children (six - 12 years) and young people (12 - 25 years) In 2008-
09 the funding program introduced expanded funding opportunities for
o projects for both children aged six to 12 years and young people aged 12 to 25
o projects that promote social inclusion for marginalised children and young people
22 projects were funded in a diverse range of areas such as sexual and reproductive health self harm
prevention promoting healthy body image responding to drug and alcohol issues and developing
websites Many projects focused on disadvantaged and isolated young people
Contribution towards benchmark
The CAYAS program has a strong focus on projects that promote social inclusion and projects that actively
involve young people in addressing issues at a local level and build on existing strengths
Activities
The Foundationrsquos second annual grants program provided grants of under $10000 and grants over
$10000 to help communities improve the learning and developmental outcomes of Tasmanian
children Twenty-six projects were successful with a total funding of up to $313883
Initiatives funded included projects to supporting children to transition from child care to school
engage children in early literacy and numeracy kitchen gardens promoting healthy eating support for
geographically and isolated families and music therapy as a developmental tool to assist parents caring
for young children To assist in the supporting the community in grant writing the Foundation in
partnership with the Tasmanian Community Fund conducted three grant-writing workshops across
the State
The Foundation has been a strong advocate for the establishment of Child and Family Centres in
Tasmania by way of its learning and development program that focuses on professional development
needs for key staff across sectors including early childhood health education care and advocacy
The Foundation held a keynote speaker forum in July 2008 titled Early Childhood Education and Care
What can we learn from the international scene The Forum featured international early-childhood
education experts Professor Philip Gammage Professor Christine Pascal and Professor Tony Bertram
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 99
In October 2008 the Foundation held its inaugural Tasmanian Early Years Achievement Awards to
recognise the very important contributions of individuals in the community who assist young children
and their families
In November 2008 the Foundation sponsored a study tour to South Australia for government and
non-government early years professionals to visit child and family centres The aim of the study tour
was to gain a stronger understanding of the range of models operating as childrenrsquos centres in
Adelaide communities and to exchange ideas with policy planning and service delivery personnel
The group included staff from the Department of Education Department of Health and Human
Services Department of Premier and Cabinet the community sector and local government
In April 2009 the Foundation hosted a series of workshops across Tasmania by Dr Margy Whalley a
UK specialist in the development and management of child and family centres The aim of the
workshops was to support the professional development of staff in the implementation of the first
eight of the 30 child and family centres announced in March 2009
In May 2009 the Foundation in partnership with Mission Australia NiFTeY and Good Beginnings
held the Parenting in the Early Years Conference where early years experts discussed teen parenting
the importance of engaging fathers and strategies to deal with behavioural issues in children Up to
200 early years professionals from across Tasmania attended the conference
The Foundationrsquos Research Committee finalised its research project - Building the Evidence - an
Outcomes Based Framework and published a final report Outcomes in the Early Years the State of
Tasmaniarsquos Young Children illustrating its findings and recommendations
Contribution towards benchmark
Each grant project aims to provide children with the best possible start in life as a foundation for a healthy
happy and positive future thereby strengthening communitiesrsquo capacity to improve local services and activities
The speakersrsquo forums promote the importance of the early years and provide opportunities for professional
development within the sector thereby increasing community action to improve local services and activities
The learning and development program promotes the importance of the early years and provides
opportunities for professional development within the sector thereby increasing community action to
improve local services and activities
The objective of the research project was to develop an outcome based framework of indicators that would
assist TEYF to prioritise projects and initiatives and contribute to policy development and planning for all tiers
of government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 100
821
Percentage of
councils with
young advisory
committees
Local Government Youth
Services Survey
Activities
Since 1998 the Local Government Youth Services Survey has been distributed to councils to collect
information about the services programs facilities and issues that affect young people in each local
government area (LGA) In 2009 this biennial survey was redeveloped to gather information about
children aged zero to 12 The Survey will be distributed to councils early in the 2009-10 financial
year to gain information about children and young people for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 periods
Contribution towards benchmark
The Local Government Youth Services Survey Report provides a valuable tool to assist policy and planning for
councils and for the State Government
Innovate Include
Develop Local
Government Funding
program
Activities
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program (formerly the Local
Government Seed Funding program) provides $76000 in grants to encourage local councils to
increase youth participation In 2008-09 the funding program introduced expanded funding
opportunities for
initiatives for children (six-12 years) and young people (12-25 years)
projects that link models of participation that encourage children and young people to
become involved in their local community
learning training research and development projects
funding for one or two year projects
The grant program also supports the implementation of youth initiatives required under State and
Local Government Partnerships Agreements
Nine councils were funded through the Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding
Program for 2008-09
Contribution towards benchmark
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program continued to assist councils to increase
youth participation and planning by funding the development of youth policies and youth participatory
structures The majority of councils have youth advisory mechanisms and youth policies to assist them with
youth participation and development At the end of the financial year 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had
youth advisory mechanisms (and 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had a youth policy or strategy
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 101
Local Government
Partnership Agreements
Activities
The Department continued to be involved in evaluating or re-negotiating issues to be included in
Partnership Agreements with Central Highlands Glamorgan Spring Bay George Town West Coast
Northern Midlands and Circular Head Councils The partnership agreements promote councils
reviewing and developing their youth policies and participatory mechanisms
Contribution towards benchmark
The aim of the partnership agreements program is to find better ways of serving Tasmanian communities by
the two levels of government (State and local government) working together
Partnership agreements are part of the State Governments broader agenda of developing partnerships with
the community to find new opportunities for economic and social development
Local Government Youth
Forums Activities
More than 50 participants attended the ninth annual Local Government Youth Forum (the Forum) in
November 2008 coordinated by the Office of Children and Youth Affairs Twenty-one councils were
represented at the Forum as well as the Youth Network of Tasmania the Local Government
Association of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Participants included youth development
officers deputy mayors alderman councillors general managers and community services managers
Contribution towards benchmark
The annual Local Government Youth Forum supports the exploration and development of youth
participation mechanisms at the local government level It provides an important opportunity for councils to
showcase their youth initiatives and to share effective approaches to youth participation among the local
government youth sector
831
Number of State
Government
Regional
Community
Forums
Regional community
forums
Activities
The Premier announced in late 2007-08 a new program of regional forums The forums complement
the sitting of Parliament scheduled for the North and North-West
Contribution towards Benchmark
Community forums provide communities with the opportunity to have their say on issues direct to
government They help to establish better connections between government councils and the community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 92
Tasmanian Youth Forum
section of audiences including youth policy makers program planners and service providers at a
State regional and local level The CAYPIT online resource covers a broad range of topics including
education health and wellbeing and population demographics The resource has been expanded to
include a profile of Information Communications Technology (ICT) and additional youth related
topics will be developed on emerging issues such as body image and youth homelessness This
resource will continue to benefit from feedback provided from organisations in the community and
children and youth sectors
Contribution towards benchmark
CAYPIT is designed to facilitate statistics qualitative research and other information to a cross section of
audiences including young people policy makers program planners and service providers at a State regional
and local level The resource can be used in the development of effective participation initiatives and assist
young people to participate in an informed capacity
Activities
A pilot of the Tasmanian Youth Forum (TYF) was launched in September 2007 to build on and
extend the positive work of the former Tasmanian Youth Consultative Committee
The Forum pilot has broadened membership to include representation from local government youth
committees and non-government organisations
TYF identified four key priority areas for its work in 2008 education health community and rights
and produced a pilot evaluation report to inform the further development of the Forum
TYF held a youth accommodation and homelessness forum in Launceston in December 2008 which
produced a communiqueacute on TYFrsquos position TYF also participated in a consultation coordinated
through the Social inclusion Unit and Office of Children and Youth Affairs on the development of the
Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania The Forum participated in a national link up with over 1000
young people for the inaugural Australian Youth Forum (AYF) youTHINK Forum with the Australian
Government Youth Minister the Hon Kate Ellis to inform policy directions at a national level
Contribution towards benchmark
Tasmanian Youth Forum is as a forum for young people to advise government on issues that are of concern
to them It provides government agencies with access to a representative group of young people in Tasmania
for the purposes of obtaining input to government projects and consultations and provides a mechanism to
harness young peoplersquos enthusiasm and ideas relating to policy development and improved service delivery
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 93
for young people TYF promotes social inclusion for young people by aligning projects with the
recommendations of the Governmentrsquos Stronger Communities Taskforce and Social Inclusion Strategy
Youth Network of
Tasmania DEMIN Youth
Conference
Activities
The Youth Network of Tasmania (YNOT) the peak body for the non-government youth sector
convened the Develop Empower Network Inspire Motivate (DENIM) youth conference The
conference is for all young people aged from 12-24 who are or want to be involved in their
community It is a chance for young people to get together and initiate projects learn skills hear from
dynamic presenters and engage in workshops
From the three regions the 85 delegates that attended the conference represented 26 local
government areas Twenty workshops were offered with a third of these workshops being facilitated
or co-facilitated by young people The main issues that young people focussed on during the
conference included homelessness youth voice gay rights peer pressure language alcohol and drugs
Delegates included young people from King Island Flinders Island recently arrived refugees from
Bhutan other culturally and linguistically diverse groups and young Aboriginal Tasmanians In total 27
young people attended the conference due to additional donations and sponsorship from all tiers of
government Colony 47 St Vincent de Paul and Northern Youth Consultative Committee
Contribution towards benchmark
The conference provides a way of reaching out to marginalised youth in Tasmania by providing them with the
opportunity to participate fully in the community
Tasmanian Multicultural
Youth project
Activities
Multicultural Tasmania in partnership with the Australian Government private business and
community organisations initiated the Tasmanian Multicultural Youth project to provide an
opportunity for young people to enhance their leadership skills through involvement with older
migrants in the management of the International Wall of Friendship community organisation
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmanian Multicultural Youth project provides an opportunity for young people from diverse
backgrounds and religions to develop skills and confidence to integrate into the broader Tasmanian society
with the support of the older migrants
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 94
631
Number of
multicultural
events in
Tasmania
Promotion and support of
multicultural events in
Tasmania
Multicultural grants
programs
Activities
$38000 was provided to migrant communities and other organisations to support projects that
increase awareness and appreciation of the different cultures in Tasmania and the benefits they bring
to the community
The 2008 Multicultural Tasmania Calendar was produced
Contribution towards benchmark
The publication of the Multicultural Tasmania Calendar and support of programs to raise awareness of the
different cultural events in Tasmania and assists in promoting the value of Tasmaniarsquos diverse community
721
Number of
Aboriginal
identified
positions in the
State Service that
are filled by
Aboriginal people
or Torres Straight
Islanders
Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Fixed-term
Employment Register
Activities
In 2008-09 from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fixed-term Employment Register nine
Aboriginal people secured positions in the State Government four on a permanent full-time basis
and five on contract or short-term employment A further three Aboriginal identified positions were
approved by the State Service Commissioner
DPAC has a dedicated Aboriginal Employment and Career Development program A strong focus is
the recruitment of young Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders into the Tasmanian State
Sector through traineeships and cadetships Assistance is provided on an individual case management
basis and includes
career pathway planning and advice
understanding the State Service selection process
support in gaining essential prerequisites for positions
preparation and tailoring of resumes and written applications
interview practice
Mentoring issues resolution and career development opportunities are also provided for Aboriginal
people once they have secured employment within the Tasmanian Government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 95
731
Hectares of land
owned or
managed by the
Aboriginal
community
Aboriginal land program Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal community currently has ownership or management rights of
approximately 55617 hectares of land All but 104 hectares of this land is freehold The 104
hectares relates to a 40-year lease for larapuna (Eddystone Point)
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 77300 hectares 55617 hectares of land (as at 30 June 2009) represents 7195 per
cent of that total
741
Percentage of
Tasmanian
Aboriginal
cultural property
collections
repatriated
Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre is recognised as the appropriate agency for handling all repatriation
matters for Tasmania
Of the 37 collections of Tasmanian Aboriginal cultural property held in overseas collections three
had been repatriated by 30 June 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 25 per cent of 37 known overseas collections returned Three collections represent
811 per cent of that benchmark
811
Proportion of
people who think
there are
opportunities to
have a real say
on important
issues
Support for the Tasmania
Together Progress Board
Consultation for the
development of a social
inclusion strategy for
Tasmania
Activities
The Government continued to provide executive and secretariat support to the Tasmania Together
Progress Board
The Government has consulted widely with all spheres of government business and the community
on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
During November and December 2008 public forums were held in Zeehan Burnie East Devonport
George Town Ravenswood St Helens Geeveston Gagebrook Clarendon Vale Risdon Vale West
Moonah Dunalley and Campbell Town during which members of the community were invited to
give feedback on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 96
During January 2009 more forums were held in a number of Local Government areas including the
Central HighlandsSouthern Midlands Flinders Island and Cape Barren Island Forums have also been
held at menrsquos and womenrsquos minimum security at Risdon Prison Ashley Detention Centre and with
peak bodies and organisations representing the multicultural and Aboriginal communities as well as
the disability seniors youth and women cohort groups Public responses have also been encouraged
via the distribution of A Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania ndash A Consultation Paper and associated
brochure among local government and community organisations and through advertisements in the
media and on the DPAC website
The Stronger Communities Taskforce also conducted community consultations in the Derwent Valley
and Brighton Local Government areas in late 2008 regarding community capacity building and social
capital in those areas This will provide additional input to the development of the social inclusion
strategy
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmania Together Progress Board is an independent statutory authority established to promote
Tasmania Together to the broader community Tasmania Together is the communityrsquos 20-year social
environmental and economic plan for the Statersquos development and was developed through extensive
community consultation providing opportunities for all Tasmaniarsquos to have a say in the future of their State
812
Proportion of
people
participating in a
decision making
process
Support to Community
Groups
Stronger Communities
Taskforce
Activities
Support continued to be provided for a range of consultative committees and peak community
bodies including the Positive Ageing Advisory Committee the Tasmanian Advisory Council on
Multicultural Affairs the Youth Network of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Tasmanian
Womenrsquos Council Premierrsquos Local Government Council and the Premierrsquos Disability Advisory
Council
Contribution towards benchmark
The Departmentrsquos ongoing support to these groups gives a voice to community groups and provides a
mechanism for them to provide feedback to government
Activities
The Stronger Communities Taskforcersquos The State of Our Community Report 2007 Starting the
conversation was tabled in Parliament in March 2008 The Taskforces report profiles successful
community development programs operating in the community business and government sectors
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 97
The Taskforcersquos recommendations have been taken into account and its input sought and
incorporated into the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Contribution towards benchmark
The Stronger Communities Taskforce provides advice to the Premier on strategies to strengthen Tasmanian
communities and increase community connection and social inclusion
813
Proportion
participating in
Local
Government
elections
Activities
The Tasmanian Electoral Commission conducts local government elections in Tasmania on behalf of
councils Tasmanian local government elections are conducted by a non-compulsory postal ballot
The Government works with the Tasmanian Electoral Commission in raising pre-election awareness
through major media campaigns
Contribution towards benchmark
Since the introduction of universal postal voting in 1998 the level of participation in local government
elections has remained fairly steady at between 55 and 60 per cent
In 2008 the Premier announced his intention to implement compulsory voting in local government elections
Where full compulsory voting is utilised in other jurisdictions the participation rate is approximately 85 per
cent The Government is currently progressing development of this policy with the intention of having this
reform in place for the 2011 local government elections Introduction of compulsory voting would ensure
that this goal is met
814
Involvement in
community
action to
improve or
protect local
services or
activities
YMCA Youth Parliament Activities
The YMCA Youth Taskforce delivered the 2008 YMCA Youth Parliament Program and facilitated the
development and debate of a range of bills for the 33 young people who participated in the event
Eight Youth Bills were passed in 2008 Youth Parliament and 135 Youth Motions were also passed
To ensure the continuing success of the YMCA Youth Parliament DPAC negotiated a partnership
agreement between YMCA Australia and the Tasmanian Youth Government Association (TYGA) to
deliver the 2008 Youth Parliament
Contribution
The YMCA Youth Parliament is part of a national youth development program that provides young
Tasmanians with a forum for expressing ideas concerns and expectations regarding the future of the State
This event has been held since 1988 and is the second longest running Youth Parliament in Australia
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 98
Children and Youth
Advisory Services Funding
Tasmanian Early Years
Foundation
Activities
The $100000 Children and Youth Advisory Services (CAYAS) Funding Program formerly the Youth
Advisory Services Funding Program (YAS) provides grants of up to $5000 for projects to provide
information and opportunities for children (six - 12 years) and young people (12 - 25 years) In 2008-
09 the funding program introduced expanded funding opportunities for
o projects for both children aged six to 12 years and young people aged 12 to 25
o projects that promote social inclusion for marginalised children and young people
22 projects were funded in a diverse range of areas such as sexual and reproductive health self harm
prevention promoting healthy body image responding to drug and alcohol issues and developing
websites Many projects focused on disadvantaged and isolated young people
Contribution towards benchmark
The CAYAS program has a strong focus on projects that promote social inclusion and projects that actively
involve young people in addressing issues at a local level and build on existing strengths
Activities
The Foundationrsquos second annual grants program provided grants of under $10000 and grants over
$10000 to help communities improve the learning and developmental outcomes of Tasmanian
children Twenty-six projects were successful with a total funding of up to $313883
Initiatives funded included projects to supporting children to transition from child care to school
engage children in early literacy and numeracy kitchen gardens promoting healthy eating support for
geographically and isolated families and music therapy as a developmental tool to assist parents caring
for young children To assist in the supporting the community in grant writing the Foundation in
partnership with the Tasmanian Community Fund conducted three grant-writing workshops across
the State
The Foundation has been a strong advocate for the establishment of Child and Family Centres in
Tasmania by way of its learning and development program that focuses on professional development
needs for key staff across sectors including early childhood health education care and advocacy
The Foundation held a keynote speaker forum in July 2008 titled Early Childhood Education and Care
What can we learn from the international scene The Forum featured international early-childhood
education experts Professor Philip Gammage Professor Christine Pascal and Professor Tony Bertram
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 99
In October 2008 the Foundation held its inaugural Tasmanian Early Years Achievement Awards to
recognise the very important contributions of individuals in the community who assist young children
and their families
In November 2008 the Foundation sponsored a study tour to South Australia for government and
non-government early years professionals to visit child and family centres The aim of the study tour
was to gain a stronger understanding of the range of models operating as childrenrsquos centres in
Adelaide communities and to exchange ideas with policy planning and service delivery personnel
The group included staff from the Department of Education Department of Health and Human
Services Department of Premier and Cabinet the community sector and local government
In April 2009 the Foundation hosted a series of workshops across Tasmania by Dr Margy Whalley a
UK specialist in the development and management of child and family centres The aim of the
workshops was to support the professional development of staff in the implementation of the first
eight of the 30 child and family centres announced in March 2009
In May 2009 the Foundation in partnership with Mission Australia NiFTeY and Good Beginnings
held the Parenting in the Early Years Conference where early years experts discussed teen parenting
the importance of engaging fathers and strategies to deal with behavioural issues in children Up to
200 early years professionals from across Tasmania attended the conference
The Foundationrsquos Research Committee finalised its research project - Building the Evidence - an
Outcomes Based Framework and published a final report Outcomes in the Early Years the State of
Tasmaniarsquos Young Children illustrating its findings and recommendations
Contribution towards benchmark
Each grant project aims to provide children with the best possible start in life as a foundation for a healthy
happy and positive future thereby strengthening communitiesrsquo capacity to improve local services and activities
The speakersrsquo forums promote the importance of the early years and provide opportunities for professional
development within the sector thereby increasing community action to improve local services and activities
The learning and development program promotes the importance of the early years and provides
opportunities for professional development within the sector thereby increasing community action to
improve local services and activities
The objective of the research project was to develop an outcome based framework of indicators that would
assist TEYF to prioritise projects and initiatives and contribute to policy development and planning for all tiers
of government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 100
821
Percentage of
councils with
young advisory
committees
Local Government Youth
Services Survey
Activities
Since 1998 the Local Government Youth Services Survey has been distributed to councils to collect
information about the services programs facilities and issues that affect young people in each local
government area (LGA) In 2009 this biennial survey was redeveloped to gather information about
children aged zero to 12 The Survey will be distributed to councils early in the 2009-10 financial
year to gain information about children and young people for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 periods
Contribution towards benchmark
The Local Government Youth Services Survey Report provides a valuable tool to assist policy and planning for
councils and for the State Government
Innovate Include
Develop Local
Government Funding
program
Activities
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program (formerly the Local
Government Seed Funding program) provides $76000 in grants to encourage local councils to
increase youth participation In 2008-09 the funding program introduced expanded funding
opportunities for
initiatives for children (six-12 years) and young people (12-25 years)
projects that link models of participation that encourage children and young people to
become involved in their local community
learning training research and development projects
funding for one or two year projects
The grant program also supports the implementation of youth initiatives required under State and
Local Government Partnerships Agreements
Nine councils were funded through the Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding
Program for 2008-09
Contribution towards benchmark
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program continued to assist councils to increase
youth participation and planning by funding the development of youth policies and youth participatory
structures The majority of councils have youth advisory mechanisms and youth policies to assist them with
youth participation and development At the end of the financial year 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had
youth advisory mechanisms (and 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had a youth policy or strategy
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 101
Local Government
Partnership Agreements
Activities
The Department continued to be involved in evaluating or re-negotiating issues to be included in
Partnership Agreements with Central Highlands Glamorgan Spring Bay George Town West Coast
Northern Midlands and Circular Head Councils The partnership agreements promote councils
reviewing and developing their youth policies and participatory mechanisms
Contribution towards benchmark
The aim of the partnership agreements program is to find better ways of serving Tasmanian communities by
the two levels of government (State and local government) working together
Partnership agreements are part of the State Governments broader agenda of developing partnerships with
the community to find new opportunities for economic and social development
Local Government Youth
Forums Activities
More than 50 participants attended the ninth annual Local Government Youth Forum (the Forum) in
November 2008 coordinated by the Office of Children and Youth Affairs Twenty-one councils were
represented at the Forum as well as the Youth Network of Tasmania the Local Government
Association of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Participants included youth development
officers deputy mayors alderman councillors general managers and community services managers
Contribution towards benchmark
The annual Local Government Youth Forum supports the exploration and development of youth
participation mechanisms at the local government level It provides an important opportunity for councils to
showcase their youth initiatives and to share effective approaches to youth participation among the local
government youth sector
831
Number of State
Government
Regional
Community
Forums
Regional community
forums
Activities
The Premier announced in late 2007-08 a new program of regional forums The forums complement
the sitting of Parliament scheduled for the North and North-West
Contribution towards Benchmark
Community forums provide communities with the opportunity to have their say on issues direct to
government They help to establish better connections between government councils and the community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 93
for young people TYF promotes social inclusion for young people by aligning projects with the
recommendations of the Governmentrsquos Stronger Communities Taskforce and Social Inclusion Strategy
Youth Network of
Tasmania DEMIN Youth
Conference
Activities
The Youth Network of Tasmania (YNOT) the peak body for the non-government youth sector
convened the Develop Empower Network Inspire Motivate (DENIM) youth conference The
conference is for all young people aged from 12-24 who are or want to be involved in their
community It is a chance for young people to get together and initiate projects learn skills hear from
dynamic presenters and engage in workshops
From the three regions the 85 delegates that attended the conference represented 26 local
government areas Twenty workshops were offered with a third of these workshops being facilitated
or co-facilitated by young people The main issues that young people focussed on during the
conference included homelessness youth voice gay rights peer pressure language alcohol and drugs
Delegates included young people from King Island Flinders Island recently arrived refugees from
Bhutan other culturally and linguistically diverse groups and young Aboriginal Tasmanians In total 27
young people attended the conference due to additional donations and sponsorship from all tiers of
government Colony 47 St Vincent de Paul and Northern Youth Consultative Committee
Contribution towards benchmark
The conference provides a way of reaching out to marginalised youth in Tasmania by providing them with the
opportunity to participate fully in the community
Tasmanian Multicultural
Youth project
Activities
Multicultural Tasmania in partnership with the Australian Government private business and
community organisations initiated the Tasmanian Multicultural Youth project to provide an
opportunity for young people to enhance their leadership skills through involvement with older
migrants in the management of the International Wall of Friendship community organisation
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmanian Multicultural Youth project provides an opportunity for young people from diverse
backgrounds and religions to develop skills and confidence to integrate into the broader Tasmanian society
with the support of the older migrants
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 94
631
Number of
multicultural
events in
Tasmania
Promotion and support of
multicultural events in
Tasmania
Multicultural grants
programs
Activities
$38000 was provided to migrant communities and other organisations to support projects that
increase awareness and appreciation of the different cultures in Tasmania and the benefits they bring
to the community
The 2008 Multicultural Tasmania Calendar was produced
Contribution towards benchmark
The publication of the Multicultural Tasmania Calendar and support of programs to raise awareness of the
different cultural events in Tasmania and assists in promoting the value of Tasmaniarsquos diverse community
721
Number of
Aboriginal
identified
positions in the
State Service that
are filled by
Aboriginal people
or Torres Straight
Islanders
Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Fixed-term
Employment Register
Activities
In 2008-09 from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fixed-term Employment Register nine
Aboriginal people secured positions in the State Government four on a permanent full-time basis
and five on contract or short-term employment A further three Aboriginal identified positions were
approved by the State Service Commissioner
DPAC has a dedicated Aboriginal Employment and Career Development program A strong focus is
the recruitment of young Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders into the Tasmanian State
Sector through traineeships and cadetships Assistance is provided on an individual case management
basis and includes
career pathway planning and advice
understanding the State Service selection process
support in gaining essential prerequisites for positions
preparation and tailoring of resumes and written applications
interview practice
Mentoring issues resolution and career development opportunities are also provided for Aboriginal
people once they have secured employment within the Tasmanian Government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 95
731
Hectares of land
owned or
managed by the
Aboriginal
community
Aboriginal land program Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal community currently has ownership or management rights of
approximately 55617 hectares of land All but 104 hectares of this land is freehold The 104
hectares relates to a 40-year lease for larapuna (Eddystone Point)
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 77300 hectares 55617 hectares of land (as at 30 June 2009) represents 7195 per
cent of that total
741
Percentage of
Tasmanian
Aboriginal
cultural property
collections
repatriated
Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre is recognised as the appropriate agency for handling all repatriation
matters for Tasmania
Of the 37 collections of Tasmanian Aboriginal cultural property held in overseas collections three
had been repatriated by 30 June 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 25 per cent of 37 known overseas collections returned Three collections represent
811 per cent of that benchmark
811
Proportion of
people who think
there are
opportunities to
have a real say
on important
issues
Support for the Tasmania
Together Progress Board
Consultation for the
development of a social
inclusion strategy for
Tasmania
Activities
The Government continued to provide executive and secretariat support to the Tasmania Together
Progress Board
The Government has consulted widely with all spheres of government business and the community
on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
During November and December 2008 public forums were held in Zeehan Burnie East Devonport
George Town Ravenswood St Helens Geeveston Gagebrook Clarendon Vale Risdon Vale West
Moonah Dunalley and Campbell Town during which members of the community were invited to
give feedback on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 96
During January 2009 more forums were held in a number of Local Government areas including the
Central HighlandsSouthern Midlands Flinders Island and Cape Barren Island Forums have also been
held at menrsquos and womenrsquos minimum security at Risdon Prison Ashley Detention Centre and with
peak bodies and organisations representing the multicultural and Aboriginal communities as well as
the disability seniors youth and women cohort groups Public responses have also been encouraged
via the distribution of A Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania ndash A Consultation Paper and associated
brochure among local government and community organisations and through advertisements in the
media and on the DPAC website
The Stronger Communities Taskforce also conducted community consultations in the Derwent Valley
and Brighton Local Government areas in late 2008 regarding community capacity building and social
capital in those areas This will provide additional input to the development of the social inclusion
strategy
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmania Together Progress Board is an independent statutory authority established to promote
Tasmania Together to the broader community Tasmania Together is the communityrsquos 20-year social
environmental and economic plan for the Statersquos development and was developed through extensive
community consultation providing opportunities for all Tasmaniarsquos to have a say in the future of their State
812
Proportion of
people
participating in a
decision making
process
Support to Community
Groups
Stronger Communities
Taskforce
Activities
Support continued to be provided for a range of consultative committees and peak community
bodies including the Positive Ageing Advisory Committee the Tasmanian Advisory Council on
Multicultural Affairs the Youth Network of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Tasmanian
Womenrsquos Council Premierrsquos Local Government Council and the Premierrsquos Disability Advisory
Council
Contribution towards benchmark
The Departmentrsquos ongoing support to these groups gives a voice to community groups and provides a
mechanism for them to provide feedback to government
Activities
The Stronger Communities Taskforcersquos The State of Our Community Report 2007 Starting the
conversation was tabled in Parliament in March 2008 The Taskforces report profiles successful
community development programs operating in the community business and government sectors
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 97
The Taskforcersquos recommendations have been taken into account and its input sought and
incorporated into the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Contribution towards benchmark
The Stronger Communities Taskforce provides advice to the Premier on strategies to strengthen Tasmanian
communities and increase community connection and social inclusion
813
Proportion
participating in
Local
Government
elections
Activities
The Tasmanian Electoral Commission conducts local government elections in Tasmania on behalf of
councils Tasmanian local government elections are conducted by a non-compulsory postal ballot
The Government works with the Tasmanian Electoral Commission in raising pre-election awareness
through major media campaigns
Contribution towards benchmark
Since the introduction of universal postal voting in 1998 the level of participation in local government
elections has remained fairly steady at between 55 and 60 per cent
In 2008 the Premier announced his intention to implement compulsory voting in local government elections
Where full compulsory voting is utilised in other jurisdictions the participation rate is approximately 85 per
cent The Government is currently progressing development of this policy with the intention of having this
reform in place for the 2011 local government elections Introduction of compulsory voting would ensure
that this goal is met
814
Involvement in
community
action to
improve or
protect local
services or
activities
YMCA Youth Parliament Activities
The YMCA Youth Taskforce delivered the 2008 YMCA Youth Parliament Program and facilitated the
development and debate of a range of bills for the 33 young people who participated in the event
Eight Youth Bills were passed in 2008 Youth Parliament and 135 Youth Motions were also passed
To ensure the continuing success of the YMCA Youth Parliament DPAC negotiated a partnership
agreement between YMCA Australia and the Tasmanian Youth Government Association (TYGA) to
deliver the 2008 Youth Parliament
Contribution
The YMCA Youth Parliament is part of a national youth development program that provides young
Tasmanians with a forum for expressing ideas concerns and expectations regarding the future of the State
This event has been held since 1988 and is the second longest running Youth Parliament in Australia
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 98
Children and Youth
Advisory Services Funding
Tasmanian Early Years
Foundation
Activities
The $100000 Children and Youth Advisory Services (CAYAS) Funding Program formerly the Youth
Advisory Services Funding Program (YAS) provides grants of up to $5000 for projects to provide
information and opportunities for children (six - 12 years) and young people (12 - 25 years) In 2008-
09 the funding program introduced expanded funding opportunities for
o projects for both children aged six to 12 years and young people aged 12 to 25
o projects that promote social inclusion for marginalised children and young people
22 projects were funded in a diverse range of areas such as sexual and reproductive health self harm
prevention promoting healthy body image responding to drug and alcohol issues and developing
websites Many projects focused on disadvantaged and isolated young people
Contribution towards benchmark
The CAYAS program has a strong focus on projects that promote social inclusion and projects that actively
involve young people in addressing issues at a local level and build on existing strengths
Activities
The Foundationrsquos second annual grants program provided grants of under $10000 and grants over
$10000 to help communities improve the learning and developmental outcomes of Tasmanian
children Twenty-six projects were successful with a total funding of up to $313883
Initiatives funded included projects to supporting children to transition from child care to school
engage children in early literacy and numeracy kitchen gardens promoting healthy eating support for
geographically and isolated families and music therapy as a developmental tool to assist parents caring
for young children To assist in the supporting the community in grant writing the Foundation in
partnership with the Tasmanian Community Fund conducted three grant-writing workshops across
the State
The Foundation has been a strong advocate for the establishment of Child and Family Centres in
Tasmania by way of its learning and development program that focuses on professional development
needs for key staff across sectors including early childhood health education care and advocacy
The Foundation held a keynote speaker forum in July 2008 titled Early Childhood Education and Care
What can we learn from the international scene The Forum featured international early-childhood
education experts Professor Philip Gammage Professor Christine Pascal and Professor Tony Bertram
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 99
In October 2008 the Foundation held its inaugural Tasmanian Early Years Achievement Awards to
recognise the very important contributions of individuals in the community who assist young children
and their families
In November 2008 the Foundation sponsored a study tour to South Australia for government and
non-government early years professionals to visit child and family centres The aim of the study tour
was to gain a stronger understanding of the range of models operating as childrenrsquos centres in
Adelaide communities and to exchange ideas with policy planning and service delivery personnel
The group included staff from the Department of Education Department of Health and Human
Services Department of Premier and Cabinet the community sector and local government
In April 2009 the Foundation hosted a series of workshops across Tasmania by Dr Margy Whalley a
UK specialist in the development and management of child and family centres The aim of the
workshops was to support the professional development of staff in the implementation of the first
eight of the 30 child and family centres announced in March 2009
In May 2009 the Foundation in partnership with Mission Australia NiFTeY and Good Beginnings
held the Parenting in the Early Years Conference where early years experts discussed teen parenting
the importance of engaging fathers and strategies to deal with behavioural issues in children Up to
200 early years professionals from across Tasmania attended the conference
The Foundationrsquos Research Committee finalised its research project - Building the Evidence - an
Outcomes Based Framework and published a final report Outcomes in the Early Years the State of
Tasmaniarsquos Young Children illustrating its findings and recommendations
Contribution towards benchmark
Each grant project aims to provide children with the best possible start in life as a foundation for a healthy
happy and positive future thereby strengthening communitiesrsquo capacity to improve local services and activities
The speakersrsquo forums promote the importance of the early years and provide opportunities for professional
development within the sector thereby increasing community action to improve local services and activities
The learning and development program promotes the importance of the early years and provides
opportunities for professional development within the sector thereby increasing community action to
improve local services and activities
The objective of the research project was to develop an outcome based framework of indicators that would
assist TEYF to prioritise projects and initiatives and contribute to policy development and planning for all tiers
of government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 100
821
Percentage of
councils with
young advisory
committees
Local Government Youth
Services Survey
Activities
Since 1998 the Local Government Youth Services Survey has been distributed to councils to collect
information about the services programs facilities and issues that affect young people in each local
government area (LGA) In 2009 this biennial survey was redeveloped to gather information about
children aged zero to 12 The Survey will be distributed to councils early in the 2009-10 financial
year to gain information about children and young people for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 periods
Contribution towards benchmark
The Local Government Youth Services Survey Report provides a valuable tool to assist policy and planning for
councils and for the State Government
Innovate Include
Develop Local
Government Funding
program
Activities
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program (formerly the Local
Government Seed Funding program) provides $76000 in grants to encourage local councils to
increase youth participation In 2008-09 the funding program introduced expanded funding
opportunities for
initiatives for children (six-12 years) and young people (12-25 years)
projects that link models of participation that encourage children and young people to
become involved in their local community
learning training research and development projects
funding for one or two year projects
The grant program also supports the implementation of youth initiatives required under State and
Local Government Partnerships Agreements
Nine councils were funded through the Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding
Program for 2008-09
Contribution towards benchmark
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program continued to assist councils to increase
youth participation and planning by funding the development of youth policies and youth participatory
structures The majority of councils have youth advisory mechanisms and youth policies to assist them with
youth participation and development At the end of the financial year 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had
youth advisory mechanisms (and 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had a youth policy or strategy
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 101
Local Government
Partnership Agreements
Activities
The Department continued to be involved in evaluating or re-negotiating issues to be included in
Partnership Agreements with Central Highlands Glamorgan Spring Bay George Town West Coast
Northern Midlands and Circular Head Councils The partnership agreements promote councils
reviewing and developing their youth policies and participatory mechanisms
Contribution towards benchmark
The aim of the partnership agreements program is to find better ways of serving Tasmanian communities by
the two levels of government (State and local government) working together
Partnership agreements are part of the State Governments broader agenda of developing partnerships with
the community to find new opportunities for economic and social development
Local Government Youth
Forums Activities
More than 50 participants attended the ninth annual Local Government Youth Forum (the Forum) in
November 2008 coordinated by the Office of Children and Youth Affairs Twenty-one councils were
represented at the Forum as well as the Youth Network of Tasmania the Local Government
Association of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Participants included youth development
officers deputy mayors alderman councillors general managers and community services managers
Contribution towards benchmark
The annual Local Government Youth Forum supports the exploration and development of youth
participation mechanisms at the local government level It provides an important opportunity for councils to
showcase their youth initiatives and to share effective approaches to youth participation among the local
government youth sector
831
Number of State
Government
Regional
Community
Forums
Regional community
forums
Activities
The Premier announced in late 2007-08 a new program of regional forums The forums complement
the sitting of Parliament scheduled for the North and North-West
Contribution towards Benchmark
Community forums provide communities with the opportunity to have their say on issues direct to
government They help to establish better connections between government councils and the community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 94
631
Number of
multicultural
events in
Tasmania
Promotion and support of
multicultural events in
Tasmania
Multicultural grants
programs
Activities
$38000 was provided to migrant communities and other organisations to support projects that
increase awareness and appreciation of the different cultures in Tasmania and the benefits they bring
to the community
The 2008 Multicultural Tasmania Calendar was produced
Contribution towards benchmark
The publication of the Multicultural Tasmania Calendar and support of programs to raise awareness of the
different cultural events in Tasmania and assists in promoting the value of Tasmaniarsquos diverse community
721
Number of
Aboriginal
identified
positions in the
State Service that
are filled by
Aboriginal people
or Torres Straight
Islanders
Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Fixed-term
Employment Register
Activities
In 2008-09 from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fixed-term Employment Register nine
Aboriginal people secured positions in the State Government four on a permanent full-time basis
and five on contract or short-term employment A further three Aboriginal identified positions were
approved by the State Service Commissioner
DPAC has a dedicated Aboriginal Employment and Career Development program A strong focus is
the recruitment of young Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders into the Tasmanian State
Sector through traineeships and cadetships Assistance is provided on an individual case management
basis and includes
career pathway planning and advice
understanding the State Service selection process
support in gaining essential prerequisites for positions
preparation and tailoring of resumes and written applications
interview practice
Mentoring issues resolution and career development opportunities are also provided for Aboriginal
people once they have secured employment within the Tasmanian Government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 95
731
Hectares of land
owned or
managed by the
Aboriginal
community
Aboriginal land program Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal community currently has ownership or management rights of
approximately 55617 hectares of land All but 104 hectares of this land is freehold The 104
hectares relates to a 40-year lease for larapuna (Eddystone Point)
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 77300 hectares 55617 hectares of land (as at 30 June 2009) represents 7195 per
cent of that total
741
Percentage of
Tasmanian
Aboriginal
cultural property
collections
repatriated
Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre is recognised as the appropriate agency for handling all repatriation
matters for Tasmania
Of the 37 collections of Tasmanian Aboriginal cultural property held in overseas collections three
had been repatriated by 30 June 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 25 per cent of 37 known overseas collections returned Three collections represent
811 per cent of that benchmark
811
Proportion of
people who think
there are
opportunities to
have a real say
on important
issues
Support for the Tasmania
Together Progress Board
Consultation for the
development of a social
inclusion strategy for
Tasmania
Activities
The Government continued to provide executive and secretariat support to the Tasmania Together
Progress Board
The Government has consulted widely with all spheres of government business and the community
on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
During November and December 2008 public forums were held in Zeehan Burnie East Devonport
George Town Ravenswood St Helens Geeveston Gagebrook Clarendon Vale Risdon Vale West
Moonah Dunalley and Campbell Town during which members of the community were invited to
give feedback on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 96
During January 2009 more forums were held in a number of Local Government areas including the
Central HighlandsSouthern Midlands Flinders Island and Cape Barren Island Forums have also been
held at menrsquos and womenrsquos minimum security at Risdon Prison Ashley Detention Centre and with
peak bodies and organisations representing the multicultural and Aboriginal communities as well as
the disability seniors youth and women cohort groups Public responses have also been encouraged
via the distribution of A Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania ndash A Consultation Paper and associated
brochure among local government and community organisations and through advertisements in the
media and on the DPAC website
The Stronger Communities Taskforce also conducted community consultations in the Derwent Valley
and Brighton Local Government areas in late 2008 regarding community capacity building and social
capital in those areas This will provide additional input to the development of the social inclusion
strategy
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmania Together Progress Board is an independent statutory authority established to promote
Tasmania Together to the broader community Tasmania Together is the communityrsquos 20-year social
environmental and economic plan for the Statersquos development and was developed through extensive
community consultation providing opportunities for all Tasmaniarsquos to have a say in the future of their State
812
Proportion of
people
participating in a
decision making
process
Support to Community
Groups
Stronger Communities
Taskforce
Activities
Support continued to be provided for a range of consultative committees and peak community
bodies including the Positive Ageing Advisory Committee the Tasmanian Advisory Council on
Multicultural Affairs the Youth Network of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Tasmanian
Womenrsquos Council Premierrsquos Local Government Council and the Premierrsquos Disability Advisory
Council
Contribution towards benchmark
The Departmentrsquos ongoing support to these groups gives a voice to community groups and provides a
mechanism for them to provide feedback to government
Activities
The Stronger Communities Taskforcersquos The State of Our Community Report 2007 Starting the
conversation was tabled in Parliament in March 2008 The Taskforces report profiles successful
community development programs operating in the community business and government sectors
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 97
The Taskforcersquos recommendations have been taken into account and its input sought and
incorporated into the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Contribution towards benchmark
The Stronger Communities Taskforce provides advice to the Premier on strategies to strengthen Tasmanian
communities and increase community connection and social inclusion
813
Proportion
participating in
Local
Government
elections
Activities
The Tasmanian Electoral Commission conducts local government elections in Tasmania on behalf of
councils Tasmanian local government elections are conducted by a non-compulsory postal ballot
The Government works with the Tasmanian Electoral Commission in raising pre-election awareness
through major media campaigns
Contribution towards benchmark
Since the introduction of universal postal voting in 1998 the level of participation in local government
elections has remained fairly steady at between 55 and 60 per cent
In 2008 the Premier announced his intention to implement compulsory voting in local government elections
Where full compulsory voting is utilised in other jurisdictions the participation rate is approximately 85 per
cent The Government is currently progressing development of this policy with the intention of having this
reform in place for the 2011 local government elections Introduction of compulsory voting would ensure
that this goal is met
814
Involvement in
community
action to
improve or
protect local
services or
activities
YMCA Youth Parliament Activities
The YMCA Youth Taskforce delivered the 2008 YMCA Youth Parliament Program and facilitated the
development and debate of a range of bills for the 33 young people who participated in the event
Eight Youth Bills were passed in 2008 Youth Parliament and 135 Youth Motions were also passed
To ensure the continuing success of the YMCA Youth Parliament DPAC negotiated a partnership
agreement between YMCA Australia and the Tasmanian Youth Government Association (TYGA) to
deliver the 2008 Youth Parliament
Contribution
The YMCA Youth Parliament is part of a national youth development program that provides young
Tasmanians with a forum for expressing ideas concerns and expectations regarding the future of the State
This event has been held since 1988 and is the second longest running Youth Parliament in Australia
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 98
Children and Youth
Advisory Services Funding
Tasmanian Early Years
Foundation
Activities
The $100000 Children and Youth Advisory Services (CAYAS) Funding Program formerly the Youth
Advisory Services Funding Program (YAS) provides grants of up to $5000 for projects to provide
information and opportunities for children (six - 12 years) and young people (12 - 25 years) In 2008-
09 the funding program introduced expanded funding opportunities for
o projects for both children aged six to 12 years and young people aged 12 to 25
o projects that promote social inclusion for marginalised children and young people
22 projects were funded in a diverse range of areas such as sexual and reproductive health self harm
prevention promoting healthy body image responding to drug and alcohol issues and developing
websites Many projects focused on disadvantaged and isolated young people
Contribution towards benchmark
The CAYAS program has a strong focus on projects that promote social inclusion and projects that actively
involve young people in addressing issues at a local level and build on existing strengths
Activities
The Foundationrsquos second annual grants program provided grants of under $10000 and grants over
$10000 to help communities improve the learning and developmental outcomes of Tasmanian
children Twenty-six projects were successful with a total funding of up to $313883
Initiatives funded included projects to supporting children to transition from child care to school
engage children in early literacy and numeracy kitchen gardens promoting healthy eating support for
geographically and isolated families and music therapy as a developmental tool to assist parents caring
for young children To assist in the supporting the community in grant writing the Foundation in
partnership with the Tasmanian Community Fund conducted three grant-writing workshops across
the State
The Foundation has been a strong advocate for the establishment of Child and Family Centres in
Tasmania by way of its learning and development program that focuses on professional development
needs for key staff across sectors including early childhood health education care and advocacy
The Foundation held a keynote speaker forum in July 2008 titled Early Childhood Education and Care
What can we learn from the international scene The Forum featured international early-childhood
education experts Professor Philip Gammage Professor Christine Pascal and Professor Tony Bertram
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 99
In October 2008 the Foundation held its inaugural Tasmanian Early Years Achievement Awards to
recognise the very important contributions of individuals in the community who assist young children
and their families
In November 2008 the Foundation sponsored a study tour to South Australia for government and
non-government early years professionals to visit child and family centres The aim of the study tour
was to gain a stronger understanding of the range of models operating as childrenrsquos centres in
Adelaide communities and to exchange ideas with policy planning and service delivery personnel
The group included staff from the Department of Education Department of Health and Human
Services Department of Premier and Cabinet the community sector and local government
In April 2009 the Foundation hosted a series of workshops across Tasmania by Dr Margy Whalley a
UK specialist in the development and management of child and family centres The aim of the
workshops was to support the professional development of staff in the implementation of the first
eight of the 30 child and family centres announced in March 2009
In May 2009 the Foundation in partnership with Mission Australia NiFTeY and Good Beginnings
held the Parenting in the Early Years Conference where early years experts discussed teen parenting
the importance of engaging fathers and strategies to deal with behavioural issues in children Up to
200 early years professionals from across Tasmania attended the conference
The Foundationrsquos Research Committee finalised its research project - Building the Evidence - an
Outcomes Based Framework and published a final report Outcomes in the Early Years the State of
Tasmaniarsquos Young Children illustrating its findings and recommendations
Contribution towards benchmark
Each grant project aims to provide children with the best possible start in life as a foundation for a healthy
happy and positive future thereby strengthening communitiesrsquo capacity to improve local services and activities
The speakersrsquo forums promote the importance of the early years and provide opportunities for professional
development within the sector thereby increasing community action to improve local services and activities
The learning and development program promotes the importance of the early years and provides
opportunities for professional development within the sector thereby increasing community action to
improve local services and activities
The objective of the research project was to develop an outcome based framework of indicators that would
assist TEYF to prioritise projects and initiatives and contribute to policy development and planning for all tiers
of government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 100
821
Percentage of
councils with
young advisory
committees
Local Government Youth
Services Survey
Activities
Since 1998 the Local Government Youth Services Survey has been distributed to councils to collect
information about the services programs facilities and issues that affect young people in each local
government area (LGA) In 2009 this biennial survey was redeveloped to gather information about
children aged zero to 12 The Survey will be distributed to councils early in the 2009-10 financial
year to gain information about children and young people for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 periods
Contribution towards benchmark
The Local Government Youth Services Survey Report provides a valuable tool to assist policy and planning for
councils and for the State Government
Innovate Include
Develop Local
Government Funding
program
Activities
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program (formerly the Local
Government Seed Funding program) provides $76000 in grants to encourage local councils to
increase youth participation In 2008-09 the funding program introduced expanded funding
opportunities for
initiatives for children (six-12 years) and young people (12-25 years)
projects that link models of participation that encourage children and young people to
become involved in their local community
learning training research and development projects
funding for one or two year projects
The grant program also supports the implementation of youth initiatives required under State and
Local Government Partnerships Agreements
Nine councils were funded through the Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding
Program for 2008-09
Contribution towards benchmark
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program continued to assist councils to increase
youth participation and planning by funding the development of youth policies and youth participatory
structures The majority of councils have youth advisory mechanisms and youth policies to assist them with
youth participation and development At the end of the financial year 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had
youth advisory mechanisms (and 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had a youth policy or strategy
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 101
Local Government
Partnership Agreements
Activities
The Department continued to be involved in evaluating or re-negotiating issues to be included in
Partnership Agreements with Central Highlands Glamorgan Spring Bay George Town West Coast
Northern Midlands and Circular Head Councils The partnership agreements promote councils
reviewing and developing their youth policies and participatory mechanisms
Contribution towards benchmark
The aim of the partnership agreements program is to find better ways of serving Tasmanian communities by
the two levels of government (State and local government) working together
Partnership agreements are part of the State Governments broader agenda of developing partnerships with
the community to find new opportunities for economic and social development
Local Government Youth
Forums Activities
More than 50 participants attended the ninth annual Local Government Youth Forum (the Forum) in
November 2008 coordinated by the Office of Children and Youth Affairs Twenty-one councils were
represented at the Forum as well as the Youth Network of Tasmania the Local Government
Association of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Participants included youth development
officers deputy mayors alderman councillors general managers and community services managers
Contribution towards benchmark
The annual Local Government Youth Forum supports the exploration and development of youth
participation mechanisms at the local government level It provides an important opportunity for councils to
showcase their youth initiatives and to share effective approaches to youth participation among the local
government youth sector
831
Number of State
Government
Regional
Community
Forums
Regional community
forums
Activities
The Premier announced in late 2007-08 a new program of regional forums The forums complement
the sitting of Parliament scheduled for the North and North-West
Contribution towards Benchmark
Community forums provide communities with the opportunity to have their say on issues direct to
government They help to establish better connections between government councils and the community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 95
731
Hectares of land
owned or
managed by the
Aboriginal
community
Aboriginal land program Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal community currently has ownership or management rights of
approximately 55617 hectares of land All but 104 hectares of this land is freehold The 104
hectares relates to a 40-year lease for larapuna (Eddystone Point)
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 77300 hectares 55617 hectares of land (as at 30 June 2009) represents 7195 per
cent of that total
741
Percentage of
Tasmanian
Aboriginal
cultural property
collections
repatriated
Activities
The Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre is recognised as the appropriate agency for handling all repatriation
matters for Tasmania
Of the 37 collections of Tasmanian Aboriginal cultural property held in overseas collections three
had been repatriated by 30 June 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
The 2005 benchmark is 25 per cent of 37 known overseas collections returned Three collections represent
811 per cent of that benchmark
811
Proportion of
people who think
there are
opportunities to
have a real say
on important
issues
Support for the Tasmania
Together Progress Board
Consultation for the
development of a social
inclusion strategy for
Tasmania
Activities
The Government continued to provide executive and secretariat support to the Tasmania Together
Progress Board
The Government has consulted widely with all spheres of government business and the community
on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
During November and December 2008 public forums were held in Zeehan Burnie East Devonport
George Town Ravenswood St Helens Geeveston Gagebrook Clarendon Vale Risdon Vale West
Moonah Dunalley and Campbell Town during which members of the community were invited to
give feedback on the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 96
During January 2009 more forums were held in a number of Local Government areas including the
Central HighlandsSouthern Midlands Flinders Island and Cape Barren Island Forums have also been
held at menrsquos and womenrsquos minimum security at Risdon Prison Ashley Detention Centre and with
peak bodies and organisations representing the multicultural and Aboriginal communities as well as
the disability seniors youth and women cohort groups Public responses have also been encouraged
via the distribution of A Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania ndash A Consultation Paper and associated
brochure among local government and community organisations and through advertisements in the
media and on the DPAC website
The Stronger Communities Taskforce also conducted community consultations in the Derwent Valley
and Brighton Local Government areas in late 2008 regarding community capacity building and social
capital in those areas This will provide additional input to the development of the social inclusion
strategy
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmania Together Progress Board is an independent statutory authority established to promote
Tasmania Together to the broader community Tasmania Together is the communityrsquos 20-year social
environmental and economic plan for the Statersquos development and was developed through extensive
community consultation providing opportunities for all Tasmaniarsquos to have a say in the future of their State
812
Proportion of
people
participating in a
decision making
process
Support to Community
Groups
Stronger Communities
Taskforce
Activities
Support continued to be provided for a range of consultative committees and peak community
bodies including the Positive Ageing Advisory Committee the Tasmanian Advisory Council on
Multicultural Affairs the Youth Network of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Tasmanian
Womenrsquos Council Premierrsquos Local Government Council and the Premierrsquos Disability Advisory
Council
Contribution towards benchmark
The Departmentrsquos ongoing support to these groups gives a voice to community groups and provides a
mechanism for them to provide feedback to government
Activities
The Stronger Communities Taskforcersquos The State of Our Community Report 2007 Starting the
conversation was tabled in Parliament in March 2008 The Taskforces report profiles successful
community development programs operating in the community business and government sectors
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 97
The Taskforcersquos recommendations have been taken into account and its input sought and
incorporated into the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Contribution towards benchmark
The Stronger Communities Taskforce provides advice to the Premier on strategies to strengthen Tasmanian
communities and increase community connection and social inclusion
813
Proportion
participating in
Local
Government
elections
Activities
The Tasmanian Electoral Commission conducts local government elections in Tasmania on behalf of
councils Tasmanian local government elections are conducted by a non-compulsory postal ballot
The Government works with the Tasmanian Electoral Commission in raising pre-election awareness
through major media campaigns
Contribution towards benchmark
Since the introduction of universal postal voting in 1998 the level of participation in local government
elections has remained fairly steady at between 55 and 60 per cent
In 2008 the Premier announced his intention to implement compulsory voting in local government elections
Where full compulsory voting is utilised in other jurisdictions the participation rate is approximately 85 per
cent The Government is currently progressing development of this policy with the intention of having this
reform in place for the 2011 local government elections Introduction of compulsory voting would ensure
that this goal is met
814
Involvement in
community
action to
improve or
protect local
services or
activities
YMCA Youth Parliament Activities
The YMCA Youth Taskforce delivered the 2008 YMCA Youth Parliament Program and facilitated the
development and debate of a range of bills for the 33 young people who participated in the event
Eight Youth Bills were passed in 2008 Youth Parliament and 135 Youth Motions were also passed
To ensure the continuing success of the YMCA Youth Parliament DPAC negotiated a partnership
agreement between YMCA Australia and the Tasmanian Youth Government Association (TYGA) to
deliver the 2008 Youth Parliament
Contribution
The YMCA Youth Parliament is part of a national youth development program that provides young
Tasmanians with a forum for expressing ideas concerns and expectations regarding the future of the State
This event has been held since 1988 and is the second longest running Youth Parliament in Australia
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 98
Children and Youth
Advisory Services Funding
Tasmanian Early Years
Foundation
Activities
The $100000 Children and Youth Advisory Services (CAYAS) Funding Program formerly the Youth
Advisory Services Funding Program (YAS) provides grants of up to $5000 for projects to provide
information and opportunities for children (six - 12 years) and young people (12 - 25 years) In 2008-
09 the funding program introduced expanded funding opportunities for
o projects for both children aged six to 12 years and young people aged 12 to 25
o projects that promote social inclusion for marginalised children and young people
22 projects were funded in a diverse range of areas such as sexual and reproductive health self harm
prevention promoting healthy body image responding to drug and alcohol issues and developing
websites Many projects focused on disadvantaged and isolated young people
Contribution towards benchmark
The CAYAS program has a strong focus on projects that promote social inclusion and projects that actively
involve young people in addressing issues at a local level and build on existing strengths
Activities
The Foundationrsquos second annual grants program provided grants of under $10000 and grants over
$10000 to help communities improve the learning and developmental outcomes of Tasmanian
children Twenty-six projects were successful with a total funding of up to $313883
Initiatives funded included projects to supporting children to transition from child care to school
engage children in early literacy and numeracy kitchen gardens promoting healthy eating support for
geographically and isolated families and music therapy as a developmental tool to assist parents caring
for young children To assist in the supporting the community in grant writing the Foundation in
partnership with the Tasmanian Community Fund conducted three grant-writing workshops across
the State
The Foundation has been a strong advocate for the establishment of Child and Family Centres in
Tasmania by way of its learning and development program that focuses on professional development
needs for key staff across sectors including early childhood health education care and advocacy
The Foundation held a keynote speaker forum in July 2008 titled Early Childhood Education and Care
What can we learn from the international scene The Forum featured international early-childhood
education experts Professor Philip Gammage Professor Christine Pascal and Professor Tony Bertram
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 99
In October 2008 the Foundation held its inaugural Tasmanian Early Years Achievement Awards to
recognise the very important contributions of individuals in the community who assist young children
and their families
In November 2008 the Foundation sponsored a study tour to South Australia for government and
non-government early years professionals to visit child and family centres The aim of the study tour
was to gain a stronger understanding of the range of models operating as childrenrsquos centres in
Adelaide communities and to exchange ideas with policy planning and service delivery personnel
The group included staff from the Department of Education Department of Health and Human
Services Department of Premier and Cabinet the community sector and local government
In April 2009 the Foundation hosted a series of workshops across Tasmania by Dr Margy Whalley a
UK specialist in the development and management of child and family centres The aim of the
workshops was to support the professional development of staff in the implementation of the first
eight of the 30 child and family centres announced in March 2009
In May 2009 the Foundation in partnership with Mission Australia NiFTeY and Good Beginnings
held the Parenting in the Early Years Conference where early years experts discussed teen parenting
the importance of engaging fathers and strategies to deal with behavioural issues in children Up to
200 early years professionals from across Tasmania attended the conference
The Foundationrsquos Research Committee finalised its research project - Building the Evidence - an
Outcomes Based Framework and published a final report Outcomes in the Early Years the State of
Tasmaniarsquos Young Children illustrating its findings and recommendations
Contribution towards benchmark
Each grant project aims to provide children with the best possible start in life as a foundation for a healthy
happy and positive future thereby strengthening communitiesrsquo capacity to improve local services and activities
The speakersrsquo forums promote the importance of the early years and provide opportunities for professional
development within the sector thereby increasing community action to improve local services and activities
The learning and development program promotes the importance of the early years and provides
opportunities for professional development within the sector thereby increasing community action to
improve local services and activities
The objective of the research project was to develop an outcome based framework of indicators that would
assist TEYF to prioritise projects and initiatives and contribute to policy development and planning for all tiers
of government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 100
821
Percentage of
councils with
young advisory
committees
Local Government Youth
Services Survey
Activities
Since 1998 the Local Government Youth Services Survey has been distributed to councils to collect
information about the services programs facilities and issues that affect young people in each local
government area (LGA) In 2009 this biennial survey was redeveloped to gather information about
children aged zero to 12 The Survey will be distributed to councils early in the 2009-10 financial
year to gain information about children and young people for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 periods
Contribution towards benchmark
The Local Government Youth Services Survey Report provides a valuable tool to assist policy and planning for
councils and for the State Government
Innovate Include
Develop Local
Government Funding
program
Activities
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program (formerly the Local
Government Seed Funding program) provides $76000 in grants to encourage local councils to
increase youth participation In 2008-09 the funding program introduced expanded funding
opportunities for
initiatives for children (six-12 years) and young people (12-25 years)
projects that link models of participation that encourage children and young people to
become involved in their local community
learning training research and development projects
funding for one or two year projects
The grant program also supports the implementation of youth initiatives required under State and
Local Government Partnerships Agreements
Nine councils were funded through the Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding
Program for 2008-09
Contribution towards benchmark
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program continued to assist councils to increase
youth participation and planning by funding the development of youth policies and youth participatory
structures The majority of councils have youth advisory mechanisms and youth policies to assist them with
youth participation and development At the end of the financial year 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had
youth advisory mechanisms (and 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had a youth policy or strategy
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 101
Local Government
Partnership Agreements
Activities
The Department continued to be involved in evaluating or re-negotiating issues to be included in
Partnership Agreements with Central Highlands Glamorgan Spring Bay George Town West Coast
Northern Midlands and Circular Head Councils The partnership agreements promote councils
reviewing and developing their youth policies and participatory mechanisms
Contribution towards benchmark
The aim of the partnership agreements program is to find better ways of serving Tasmanian communities by
the two levels of government (State and local government) working together
Partnership agreements are part of the State Governments broader agenda of developing partnerships with
the community to find new opportunities for economic and social development
Local Government Youth
Forums Activities
More than 50 participants attended the ninth annual Local Government Youth Forum (the Forum) in
November 2008 coordinated by the Office of Children and Youth Affairs Twenty-one councils were
represented at the Forum as well as the Youth Network of Tasmania the Local Government
Association of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Participants included youth development
officers deputy mayors alderman councillors general managers and community services managers
Contribution towards benchmark
The annual Local Government Youth Forum supports the exploration and development of youth
participation mechanisms at the local government level It provides an important opportunity for councils to
showcase their youth initiatives and to share effective approaches to youth participation among the local
government youth sector
831
Number of State
Government
Regional
Community
Forums
Regional community
forums
Activities
The Premier announced in late 2007-08 a new program of regional forums The forums complement
the sitting of Parliament scheduled for the North and North-West
Contribution towards Benchmark
Community forums provide communities with the opportunity to have their say on issues direct to
government They help to establish better connections between government councils and the community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 96
During January 2009 more forums were held in a number of Local Government areas including the
Central HighlandsSouthern Midlands Flinders Island and Cape Barren Island Forums have also been
held at menrsquos and womenrsquos minimum security at Risdon Prison Ashley Detention Centre and with
peak bodies and organisations representing the multicultural and Aboriginal communities as well as
the disability seniors youth and women cohort groups Public responses have also been encouraged
via the distribution of A Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania ndash A Consultation Paper and associated
brochure among local government and community organisations and through advertisements in the
media and on the DPAC website
The Stronger Communities Taskforce also conducted community consultations in the Derwent Valley
and Brighton Local Government areas in late 2008 regarding community capacity building and social
capital in those areas This will provide additional input to the development of the social inclusion
strategy
Contribution towards benchmark
The Tasmania Together Progress Board is an independent statutory authority established to promote
Tasmania Together to the broader community Tasmania Together is the communityrsquos 20-year social
environmental and economic plan for the Statersquos development and was developed through extensive
community consultation providing opportunities for all Tasmaniarsquos to have a say in the future of their State
812
Proportion of
people
participating in a
decision making
process
Support to Community
Groups
Stronger Communities
Taskforce
Activities
Support continued to be provided for a range of consultative committees and peak community
bodies including the Positive Ageing Advisory Committee the Tasmanian Advisory Council on
Multicultural Affairs the Youth Network of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Tasmanian
Womenrsquos Council Premierrsquos Local Government Council and the Premierrsquos Disability Advisory
Council
Contribution towards benchmark
The Departmentrsquos ongoing support to these groups gives a voice to community groups and provides a
mechanism for them to provide feedback to government
Activities
The Stronger Communities Taskforcersquos The State of Our Community Report 2007 Starting the
conversation was tabled in Parliament in March 2008 The Taskforces report profiles successful
community development programs operating in the community business and government sectors
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 97
The Taskforcersquos recommendations have been taken into account and its input sought and
incorporated into the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Contribution towards benchmark
The Stronger Communities Taskforce provides advice to the Premier on strategies to strengthen Tasmanian
communities and increase community connection and social inclusion
813
Proportion
participating in
Local
Government
elections
Activities
The Tasmanian Electoral Commission conducts local government elections in Tasmania on behalf of
councils Tasmanian local government elections are conducted by a non-compulsory postal ballot
The Government works with the Tasmanian Electoral Commission in raising pre-election awareness
through major media campaigns
Contribution towards benchmark
Since the introduction of universal postal voting in 1998 the level of participation in local government
elections has remained fairly steady at between 55 and 60 per cent
In 2008 the Premier announced his intention to implement compulsory voting in local government elections
Where full compulsory voting is utilised in other jurisdictions the participation rate is approximately 85 per
cent The Government is currently progressing development of this policy with the intention of having this
reform in place for the 2011 local government elections Introduction of compulsory voting would ensure
that this goal is met
814
Involvement in
community
action to
improve or
protect local
services or
activities
YMCA Youth Parliament Activities
The YMCA Youth Taskforce delivered the 2008 YMCA Youth Parliament Program and facilitated the
development and debate of a range of bills for the 33 young people who participated in the event
Eight Youth Bills were passed in 2008 Youth Parliament and 135 Youth Motions were also passed
To ensure the continuing success of the YMCA Youth Parliament DPAC negotiated a partnership
agreement between YMCA Australia and the Tasmanian Youth Government Association (TYGA) to
deliver the 2008 Youth Parliament
Contribution
The YMCA Youth Parliament is part of a national youth development program that provides young
Tasmanians with a forum for expressing ideas concerns and expectations regarding the future of the State
This event has been held since 1988 and is the second longest running Youth Parliament in Australia
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 98
Children and Youth
Advisory Services Funding
Tasmanian Early Years
Foundation
Activities
The $100000 Children and Youth Advisory Services (CAYAS) Funding Program formerly the Youth
Advisory Services Funding Program (YAS) provides grants of up to $5000 for projects to provide
information and opportunities for children (six - 12 years) and young people (12 - 25 years) In 2008-
09 the funding program introduced expanded funding opportunities for
o projects for both children aged six to 12 years and young people aged 12 to 25
o projects that promote social inclusion for marginalised children and young people
22 projects were funded in a diverse range of areas such as sexual and reproductive health self harm
prevention promoting healthy body image responding to drug and alcohol issues and developing
websites Many projects focused on disadvantaged and isolated young people
Contribution towards benchmark
The CAYAS program has a strong focus on projects that promote social inclusion and projects that actively
involve young people in addressing issues at a local level and build on existing strengths
Activities
The Foundationrsquos second annual grants program provided grants of under $10000 and grants over
$10000 to help communities improve the learning and developmental outcomes of Tasmanian
children Twenty-six projects were successful with a total funding of up to $313883
Initiatives funded included projects to supporting children to transition from child care to school
engage children in early literacy and numeracy kitchen gardens promoting healthy eating support for
geographically and isolated families and music therapy as a developmental tool to assist parents caring
for young children To assist in the supporting the community in grant writing the Foundation in
partnership with the Tasmanian Community Fund conducted three grant-writing workshops across
the State
The Foundation has been a strong advocate for the establishment of Child and Family Centres in
Tasmania by way of its learning and development program that focuses on professional development
needs for key staff across sectors including early childhood health education care and advocacy
The Foundation held a keynote speaker forum in July 2008 titled Early Childhood Education and Care
What can we learn from the international scene The Forum featured international early-childhood
education experts Professor Philip Gammage Professor Christine Pascal and Professor Tony Bertram
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 99
In October 2008 the Foundation held its inaugural Tasmanian Early Years Achievement Awards to
recognise the very important contributions of individuals in the community who assist young children
and their families
In November 2008 the Foundation sponsored a study tour to South Australia for government and
non-government early years professionals to visit child and family centres The aim of the study tour
was to gain a stronger understanding of the range of models operating as childrenrsquos centres in
Adelaide communities and to exchange ideas with policy planning and service delivery personnel
The group included staff from the Department of Education Department of Health and Human
Services Department of Premier and Cabinet the community sector and local government
In April 2009 the Foundation hosted a series of workshops across Tasmania by Dr Margy Whalley a
UK specialist in the development and management of child and family centres The aim of the
workshops was to support the professional development of staff in the implementation of the first
eight of the 30 child and family centres announced in March 2009
In May 2009 the Foundation in partnership with Mission Australia NiFTeY and Good Beginnings
held the Parenting in the Early Years Conference where early years experts discussed teen parenting
the importance of engaging fathers and strategies to deal with behavioural issues in children Up to
200 early years professionals from across Tasmania attended the conference
The Foundationrsquos Research Committee finalised its research project - Building the Evidence - an
Outcomes Based Framework and published a final report Outcomes in the Early Years the State of
Tasmaniarsquos Young Children illustrating its findings and recommendations
Contribution towards benchmark
Each grant project aims to provide children with the best possible start in life as a foundation for a healthy
happy and positive future thereby strengthening communitiesrsquo capacity to improve local services and activities
The speakersrsquo forums promote the importance of the early years and provide opportunities for professional
development within the sector thereby increasing community action to improve local services and activities
The learning and development program promotes the importance of the early years and provides
opportunities for professional development within the sector thereby increasing community action to
improve local services and activities
The objective of the research project was to develop an outcome based framework of indicators that would
assist TEYF to prioritise projects and initiatives and contribute to policy development and planning for all tiers
of government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 100
821
Percentage of
councils with
young advisory
committees
Local Government Youth
Services Survey
Activities
Since 1998 the Local Government Youth Services Survey has been distributed to councils to collect
information about the services programs facilities and issues that affect young people in each local
government area (LGA) In 2009 this biennial survey was redeveloped to gather information about
children aged zero to 12 The Survey will be distributed to councils early in the 2009-10 financial
year to gain information about children and young people for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 periods
Contribution towards benchmark
The Local Government Youth Services Survey Report provides a valuable tool to assist policy and planning for
councils and for the State Government
Innovate Include
Develop Local
Government Funding
program
Activities
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program (formerly the Local
Government Seed Funding program) provides $76000 in grants to encourage local councils to
increase youth participation In 2008-09 the funding program introduced expanded funding
opportunities for
initiatives for children (six-12 years) and young people (12-25 years)
projects that link models of participation that encourage children and young people to
become involved in their local community
learning training research and development projects
funding for one or two year projects
The grant program also supports the implementation of youth initiatives required under State and
Local Government Partnerships Agreements
Nine councils were funded through the Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding
Program for 2008-09
Contribution towards benchmark
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program continued to assist councils to increase
youth participation and planning by funding the development of youth policies and youth participatory
structures The majority of councils have youth advisory mechanisms and youth policies to assist them with
youth participation and development At the end of the financial year 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had
youth advisory mechanisms (and 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had a youth policy or strategy
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 101
Local Government
Partnership Agreements
Activities
The Department continued to be involved in evaluating or re-negotiating issues to be included in
Partnership Agreements with Central Highlands Glamorgan Spring Bay George Town West Coast
Northern Midlands and Circular Head Councils The partnership agreements promote councils
reviewing and developing their youth policies and participatory mechanisms
Contribution towards benchmark
The aim of the partnership agreements program is to find better ways of serving Tasmanian communities by
the two levels of government (State and local government) working together
Partnership agreements are part of the State Governments broader agenda of developing partnerships with
the community to find new opportunities for economic and social development
Local Government Youth
Forums Activities
More than 50 participants attended the ninth annual Local Government Youth Forum (the Forum) in
November 2008 coordinated by the Office of Children and Youth Affairs Twenty-one councils were
represented at the Forum as well as the Youth Network of Tasmania the Local Government
Association of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Participants included youth development
officers deputy mayors alderman councillors general managers and community services managers
Contribution towards benchmark
The annual Local Government Youth Forum supports the exploration and development of youth
participation mechanisms at the local government level It provides an important opportunity for councils to
showcase their youth initiatives and to share effective approaches to youth participation among the local
government youth sector
831
Number of State
Government
Regional
Community
Forums
Regional community
forums
Activities
The Premier announced in late 2007-08 a new program of regional forums The forums complement
the sitting of Parliament scheduled for the North and North-West
Contribution towards Benchmark
Community forums provide communities with the opportunity to have their say on issues direct to
government They help to establish better connections between government councils and the community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 97
The Taskforcersquos recommendations have been taken into account and its input sought and
incorporated into the development of a social inclusion strategy for Tasmania
Contribution towards benchmark
The Stronger Communities Taskforce provides advice to the Premier on strategies to strengthen Tasmanian
communities and increase community connection and social inclusion
813
Proportion
participating in
Local
Government
elections
Activities
The Tasmanian Electoral Commission conducts local government elections in Tasmania on behalf of
councils Tasmanian local government elections are conducted by a non-compulsory postal ballot
The Government works with the Tasmanian Electoral Commission in raising pre-election awareness
through major media campaigns
Contribution towards benchmark
Since the introduction of universal postal voting in 1998 the level of participation in local government
elections has remained fairly steady at between 55 and 60 per cent
In 2008 the Premier announced his intention to implement compulsory voting in local government elections
Where full compulsory voting is utilised in other jurisdictions the participation rate is approximately 85 per
cent The Government is currently progressing development of this policy with the intention of having this
reform in place for the 2011 local government elections Introduction of compulsory voting would ensure
that this goal is met
814
Involvement in
community
action to
improve or
protect local
services or
activities
YMCA Youth Parliament Activities
The YMCA Youth Taskforce delivered the 2008 YMCA Youth Parliament Program and facilitated the
development and debate of a range of bills for the 33 young people who participated in the event
Eight Youth Bills were passed in 2008 Youth Parliament and 135 Youth Motions were also passed
To ensure the continuing success of the YMCA Youth Parliament DPAC negotiated a partnership
agreement between YMCA Australia and the Tasmanian Youth Government Association (TYGA) to
deliver the 2008 Youth Parliament
Contribution
The YMCA Youth Parliament is part of a national youth development program that provides young
Tasmanians with a forum for expressing ideas concerns and expectations regarding the future of the State
This event has been held since 1988 and is the second longest running Youth Parliament in Australia
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 98
Children and Youth
Advisory Services Funding
Tasmanian Early Years
Foundation
Activities
The $100000 Children and Youth Advisory Services (CAYAS) Funding Program formerly the Youth
Advisory Services Funding Program (YAS) provides grants of up to $5000 for projects to provide
information and opportunities for children (six - 12 years) and young people (12 - 25 years) In 2008-
09 the funding program introduced expanded funding opportunities for
o projects for both children aged six to 12 years and young people aged 12 to 25
o projects that promote social inclusion for marginalised children and young people
22 projects were funded in a diverse range of areas such as sexual and reproductive health self harm
prevention promoting healthy body image responding to drug and alcohol issues and developing
websites Many projects focused on disadvantaged and isolated young people
Contribution towards benchmark
The CAYAS program has a strong focus on projects that promote social inclusion and projects that actively
involve young people in addressing issues at a local level and build on existing strengths
Activities
The Foundationrsquos second annual grants program provided grants of under $10000 and grants over
$10000 to help communities improve the learning and developmental outcomes of Tasmanian
children Twenty-six projects were successful with a total funding of up to $313883
Initiatives funded included projects to supporting children to transition from child care to school
engage children in early literacy and numeracy kitchen gardens promoting healthy eating support for
geographically and isolated families and music therapy as a developmental tool to assist parents caring
for young children To assist in the supporting the community in grant writing the Foundation in
partnership with the Tasmanian Community Fund conducted three grant-writing workshops across
the State
The Foundation has been a strong advocate for the establishment of Child and Family Centres in
Tasmania by way of its learning and development program that focuses on professional development
needs for key staff across sectors including early childhood health education care and advocacy
The Foundation held a keynote speaker forum in July 2008 titled Early Childhood Education and Care
What can we learn from the international scene The Forum featured international early-childhood
education experts Professor Philip Gammage Professor Christine Pascal and Professor Tony Bertram
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 99
In October 2008 the Foundation held its inaugural Tasmanian Early Years Achievement Awards to
recognise the very important contributions of individuals in the community who assist young children
and their families
In November 2008 the Foundation sponsored a study tour to South Australia for government and
non-government early years professionals to visit child and family centres The aim of the study tour
was to gain a stronger understanding of the range of models operating as childrenrsquos centres in
Adelaide communities and to exchange ideas with policy planning and service delivery personnel
The group included staff from the Department of Education Department of Health and Human
Services Department of Premier and Cabinet the community sector and local government
In April 2009 the Foundation hosted a series of workshops across Tasmania by Dr Margy Whalley a
UK specialist in the development and management of child and family centres The aim of the
workshops was to support the professional development of staff in the implementation of the first
eight of the 30 child and family centres announced in March 2009
In May 2009 the Foundation in partnership with Mission Australia NiFTeY and Good Beginnings
held the Parenting in the Early Years Conference where early years experts discussed teen parenting
the importance of engaging fathers and strategies to deal with behavioural issues in children Up to
200 early years professionals from across Tasmania attended the conference
The Foundationrsquos Research Committee finalised its research project - Building the Evidence - an
Outcomes Based Framework and published a final report Outcomes in the Early Years the State of
Tasmaniarsquos Young Children illustrating its findings and recommendations
Contribution towards benchmark
Each grant project aims to provide children with the best possible start in life as a foundation for a healthy
happy and positive future thereby strengthening communitiesrsquo capacity to improve local services and activities
The speakersrsquo forums promote the importance of the early years and provide opportunities for professional
development within the sector thereby increasing community action to improve local services and activities
The learning and development program promotes the importance of the early years and provides
opportunities for professional development within the sector thereby increasing community action to
improve local services and activities
The objective of the research project was to develop an outcome based framework of indicators that would
assist TEYF to prioritise projects and initiatives and contribute to policy development and planning for all tiers
of government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 100
821
Percentage of
councils with
young advisory
committees
Local Government Youth
Services Survey
Activities
Since 1998 the Local Government Youth Services Survey has been distributed to councils to collect
information about the services programs facilities and issues that affect young people in each local
government area (LGA) In 2009 this biennial survey was redeveloped to gather information about
children aged zero to 12 The Survey will be distributed to councils early in the 2009-10 financial
year to gain information about children and young people for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 periods
Contribution towards benchmark
The Local Government Youth Services Survey Report provides a valuable tool to assist policy and planning for
councils and for the State Government
Innovate Include
Develop Local
Government Funding
program
Activities
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program (formerly the Local
Government Seed Funding program) provides $76000 in grants to encourage local councils to
increase youth participation In 2008-09 the funding program introduced expanded funding
opportunities for
initiatives for children (six-12 years) and young people (12-25 years)
projects that link models of participation that encourage children and young people to
become involved in their local community
learning training research and development projects
funding for one or two year projects
The grant program also supports the implementation of youth initiatives required under State and
Local Government Partnerships Agreements
Nine councils were funded through the Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding
Program for 2008-09
Contribution towards benchmark
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program continued to assist councils to increase
youth participation and planning by funding the development of youth policies and youth participatory
structures The majority of councils have youth advisory mechanisms and youth policies to assist them with
youth participation and development At the end of the financial year 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had
youth advisory mechanisms (and 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had a youth policy or strategy
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 101
Local Government
Partnership Agreements
Activities
The Department continued to be involved in evaluating or re-negotiating issues to be included in
Partnership Agreements with Central Highlands Glamorgan Spring Bay George Town West Coast
Northern Midlands and Circular Head Councils The partnership agreements promote councils
reviewing and developing their youth policies and participatory mechanisms
Contribution towards benchmark
The aim of the partnership agreements program is to find better ways of serving Tasmanian communities by
the two levels of government (State and local government) working together
Partnership agreements are part of the State Governments broader agenda of developing partnerships with
the community to find new opportunities for economic and social development
Local Government Youth
Forums Activities
More than 50 participants attended the ninth annual Local Government Youth Forum (the Forum) in
November 2008 coordinated by the Office of Children and Youth Affairs Twenty-one councils were
represented at the Forum as well as the Youth Network of Tasmania the Local Government
Association of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Participants included youth development
officers deputy mayors alderman councillors general managers and community services managers
Contribution towards benchmark
The annual Local Government Youth Forum supports the exploration and development of youth
participation mechanisms at the local government level It provides an important opportunity for councils to
showcase their youth initiatives and to share effective approaches to youth participation among the local
government youth sector
831
Number of State
Government
Regional
Community
Forums
Regional community
forums
Activities
The Premier announced in late 2007-08 a new program of regional forums The forums complement
the sitting of Parliament scheduled for the North and North-West
Contribution towards Benchmark
Community forums provide communities with the opportunity to have their say on issues direct to
government They help to establish better connections between government councils and the community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 98
Children and Youth
Advisory Services Funding
Tasmanian Early Years
Foundation
Activities
The $100000 Children and Youth Advisory Services (CAYAS) Funding Program formerly the Youth
Advisory Services Funding Program (YAS) provides grants of up to $5000 for projects to provide
information and opportunities for children (six - 12 years) and young people (12 - 25 years) In 2008-
09 the funding program introduced expanded funding opportunities for
o projects for both children aged six to 12 years and young people aged 12 to 25
o projects that promote social inclusion for marginalised children and young people
22 projects were funded in a diverse range of areas such as sexual and reproductive health self harm
prevention promoting healthy body image responding to drug and alcohol issues and developing
websites Many projects focused on disadvantaged and isolated young people
Contribution towards benchmark
The CAYAS program has a strong focus on projects that promote social inclusion and projects that actively
involve young people in addressing issues at a local level and build on existing strengths
Activities
The Foundationrsquos second annual grants program provided grants of under $10000 and grants over
$10000 to help communities improve the learning and developmental outcomes of Tasmanian
children Twenty-six projects were successful with a total funding of up to $313883
Initiatives funded included projects to supporting children to transition from child care to school
engage children in early literacy and numeracy kitchen gardens promoting healthy eating support for
geographically and isolated families and music therapy as a developmental tool to assist parents caring
for young children To assist in the supporting the community in grant writing the Foundation in
partnership with the Tasmanian Community Fund conducted three grant-writing workshops across
the State
The Foundation has been a strong advocate for the establishment of Child and Family Centres in
Tasmania by way of its learning and development program that focuses on professional development
needs for key staff across sectors including early childhood health education care and advocacy
The Foundation held a keynote speaker forum in July 2008 titled Early Childhood Education and Care
What can we learn from the international scene The Forum featured international early-childhood
education experts Professor Philip Gammage Professor Christine Pascal and Professor Tony Bertram
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 99
In October 2008 the Foundation held its inaugural Tasmanian Early Years Achievement Awards to
recognise the very important contributions of individuals in the community who assist young children
and their families
In November 2008 the Foundation sponsored a study tour to South Australia for government and
non-government early years professionals to visit child and family centres The aim of the study tour
was to gain a stronger understanding of the range of models operating as childrenrsquos centres in
Adelaide communities and to exchange ideas with policy planning and service delivery personnel
The group included staff from the Department of Education Department of Health and Human
Services Department of Premier and Cabinet the community sector and local government
In April 2009 the Foundation hosted a series of workshops across Tasmania by Dr Margy Whalley a
UK specialist in the development and management of child and family centres The aim of the
workshops was to support the professional development of staff in the implementation of the first
eight of the 30 child and family centres announced in March 2009
In May 2009 the Foundation in partnership with Mission Australia NiFTeY and Good Beginnings
held the Parenting in the Early Years Conference where early years experts discussed teen parenting
the importance of engaging fathers and strategies to deal with behavioural issues in children Up to
200 early years professionals from across Tasmania attended the conference
The Foundationrsquos Research Committee finalised its research project - Building the Evidence - an
Outcomes Based Framework and published a final report Outcomes in the Early Years the State of
Tasmaniarsquos Young Children illustrating its findings and recommendations
Contribution towards benchmark
Each grant project aims to provide children with the best possible start in life as a foundation for a healthy
happy and positive future thereby strengthening communitiesrsquo capacity to improve local services and activities
The speakersrsquo forums promote the importance of the early years and provide opportunities for professional
development within the sector thereby increasing community action to improve local services and activities
The learning and development program promotes the importance of the early years and provides
opportunities for professional development within the sector thereby increasing community action to
improve local services and activities
The objective of the research project was to develop an outcome based framework of indicators that would
assist TEYF to prioritise projects and initiatives and contribute to policy development and planning for all tiers
of government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 100
821
Percentage of
councils with
young advisory
committees
Local Government Youth
Services Survey
Activities
Since 1998 the Local Government Youth Services Survey has been distributed to councils to collect
information about the services programs facilities and issues that affect young people in each local
government area (LGA) In 2009 this biennial survey was redeveloped to gather information about
children aged zero to 12 The Survey will be distributed to councils early in the 2009-10 financial
year to gain information about children and young people for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 periods
Contribution towards benchmark
The Local Government Youth Services Survey Report provides a valuable tool to assist policy and planning for
councils and for the State Government
Innovate Include
Develop Local
Government Funding
program
Activities
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program (formerly the Local
Government Seed Funding program) provides $76000 in grants to encourage local councils to
increase youth participation In 2008-09 the funding program introduced expanded funding
opportunities for
initiatives for children (six-12 years) and young people (12-25 years)
projects that link models of participation that encourage children and young people to
become involved in their local community
learning training research and development projects
funding for one or two year projects
The grant program also supports the implementation of youth initiatives required under State and
Local Government Partnerships Agreements
Nine councils were funded through the Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding
Program for 2008-09
Contribution towards benchmark
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program continued to assist councils to increase
youth participation and planning by funding the development of youth policies and youth participatory
structures The majority of councils have youth advisory mechanisms and youth policies to assist them with
youth participation and development At the end of the financial year 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had
youth advisory mechanisms (and 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had a youth policy or strategy
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 101
Local Government
Partnership Agreements
Activities
The Department continued to be involved in evaluating or re-negotiating issues to be included in
Partnership Agreements with Central Highlands Glamorgan Spring Bay George Town West Coast
Northern Midlands and Circular Head Councils The partnership agreements promote councils
reviewing and developing their youth policies and participatory mechanisms
Contribution towards benchmark
The aim of the partnership agreements program is to find better ways of serving Tasmanian communities by
the two levels of government (State and local government) working together
Partnership agreements are part of the State Governments broader agenda of developing partnerships with
the community to find new opportunities for economic and social development
Local Government Youth
Forums Activities
More than 50 participants attended the ninth annual Local Government Youth Forum (the Forum) in
November 2008 coordinated by the Office of Children and Youth Affairs Twenty-one councils were
represented at the Forum as well as the Youth Network of Tasmania the Local Government
Association of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Participants included youth development
officers deputy mayors alderman councillors general managers and community services managers
Contribution towards benchmark
The annual Local Government Youth Forum supports the exploration and development of youth
participation mechanisms at the local government level It provides an important opportunity for councils to
showcase their youth initiatives and to share effective approaches to youth participation among the local
government youth sector
831
Number of State
Government
Regional
Community
Forums
Regional community
forums
Activities
The Premier announced in late 2007-08 a new program of regional forums The forums complement
the sitting of Parliament scheduled for the North and North-West
Contribution towards Benchmark
Community forums provide communities with the opportunity to have their say on issues direct to
government They help to establish better connections between government councils and the community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 99
In October 2008 the Foundation held its inaugural Tasmanian Early Years Achievement Awards to
recognise the very important contributions of individuals in the community who assist young children
and their families
In November 2008 the Foundation sponsored a study tour to South Australia for government and
non-government early years professionals to visit child and family centres The aim of the study tour
was to gain a stronger understanding of the range of models operating as childrenrsquos centres in
Adelaide communities and to exchange ideas with policy planning and service delivery personnel
The group included staff from the Department of Education Department of Health and Human
Services Department of Premier and Cabinet the community sector and local government
In April 2009 the Foundation hosted a series of workshops across Tasmania by Dr Margy Whalley a
UK specialist in the development and management of child and family centres The aim of the
workshops was to support the professional development of staff in the implementation of the first
eight of the 30 child and family centres announced in March 2009
In May 2009 the Foundation in partnership with Mission Australia NiFTeY and Good Beginnings
held the Parenting in the Early Years Conference where early years experts discussed teen parenting
the importance of engaging fathers and strategies to deal with behavioural issues in children Up to
200 early years professionals from across Tasmania attended the conference
The Foundationrsquos Research Committee finalised its research project - Building the Evidence - an
Outcomes Based Framework and published a final report Outcomes in the Early Years the State of
Tasmaniarsquos Young Children illustrating its findings and recommendations
Contribution towards benchmark
Each grant project aims to provide children with the best possible start in life as a foundation for a healthy
happy and positive future thereby strengthening communitiesrsquo capacity to improve local services and activities
The speakersrsquo forums promote the importance of the early years and provide opportunities for professional
development within the sector thereby increasing community action to improve local services and activities
The learning and development program promotes the importance of the early years and provides
opportunities for professional development within the sector thereby increasing community action to
improve local services and activities
The objective of the research project was to develop an outcome based framework of indicators that would
assist TEYF to prioritise projects and initiatives and contribute to policy development and planning for all tiers
of government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 100
821
Percentage of
councils with
young advisory
committees
Local Government Youth
Services Survey
Activities
Since 1998 the Local Government Youth Services Survey has been distributed to councils to collect
information about the services programs facilities and issues that affect young people in each local
government area (LGA) In 2009 this biennial survey was redeveloped to gather information about
children aged zero to 12 The Survey will be distributed to councils early in the 2009-10 financial
year to gain information about children and young people for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 periods
Contribution towards benchmark
The Local Government Youth Services Survey Report provides a valuable tool to assist policy and planning for
councils and for the State Government
Innovate Include
Develop Local
Government Funding
program
Activities
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program (formerly the Local
Government Seed Funding program) provides $76000 in grants to encourage local councils to
increase youth participation In 2008-09 the funding program introduced expanded funding
opportunities for
initiatives for children (six-12 years) and young people (12-25 years)
projects that link models of participation that encourage children and young people to
become involved in their local community
learning training research and development projects
funding for one or two year projects
The grant program also supports the implementation of youth initiatives required under State and
Local Government Partnerships Agreements
Nine councils were funded through the Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding
Program for 2008-09
Contribution towards benchmark
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program continued to assist councils to increase
youth participation and planning by funding the development of youth policies and youth participatory
structures The majority of councils have youth advisory mechanisms and youth policies to assist them with
youth participation and development At the end of the financial year 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had
youth advisory mechanisms (and 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had a youth policy or strategy
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 101
Local Government
Partnership Agreements
Activities
The Department continued to be involved in evaluating or re-negotiating issues to be included in
Partnership Agreements with Central Highlands Glamorgan Spring Bay George Town West Coast
Northern Midlands and Circular Head Councils The partnership agreements promote councils
reviewing and developing their youth policies and participatory mechanisms
Contribution towards benchmark
The aim of the partnership agreements program is to find better ways of serving Tasmanian communities by
the two levels of government (State and local government) working together
Partnership agreements are part of the State Governments broader agenda of developing partnerships with
the community to find new opportunities for economic and social development
Local Government Youth
Forums Activities
More than 50 participants attended the ninth annual Local Government Youth Forum (the Forum) in
November 2008 coordinated by the Office of Children and Youth Affairs Twenty-one councils were
represented at the Forum as well as the Youth Network of Tasmania the Local Government
Association of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Participants included youth development
officers deputy mayors alderman councillors general managers and community services managers
Contribution towards benchmark
The annual Local Government Youth Forum supports the exploration and development of youth
participation mechanisms at the local government level It provides an important opportunity for councils to
showcase their youth initiatives and to share effective approaches to youth participation among the local
government youth sector
831
Number of State
Government
Regional
Community
Forums
Regional community
forums
Activities
The Premier announced in late 2007-08 a new program of regional forums The forums complement
the sitting of Parliament scheduled for the North and North-West
Contribution towards Benchmark
Community forums provide communities with the opportunity to have their say on issues direct to
government They help to establish better connections between government councils and the community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 100
821
Percentage of
councils with
young advisory
committees
Local Government Youth
Services Survey
Activities
Since 1998 the Local Government Youth Services Survey has been distributed to councils to collect
information about the services programs facilities and issues that affect young people in each local
government area (LGA) In 2009 this biennial survey was redeveloped to gather information about
children aged zero to 12 The Survey will be distributed to councils early in the 2009-10 financial
year to gain information about children and young people for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 periods
Contribution towards benchmark
The Local Government Youth Services Survey Report provides a valuable tool to assist policy and planning for
councils and for the State Government
Innovate Include
Develop Local
Government Funding
program
Activities
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program (formerly the Local
Government Seed Funding program) provides $76000 in grants to encourage local councils to
increase youth participation In 2008-09 the funding program introduced expanded funding
opportunities for
initiatives for children (six-12 years) and young people (12-25 years)
projects that link models of participation that encourage children and young people to
become involved in their local community
learning training research and development projects
funding for one or two year projects
The grant program also supports the implementation of youth initiatives required under State and
Local Government Partnerships Agreements
Nine councils were funded through the Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding
Program for 2008-09
Contribution towards benchmark
The Innovate Include Develop Local Government Funding program continued to assist councils to increase
youth participation and planning by funding the development of youth policies and youth participatory
structures The majority of councils have youth advisory mechanisms and youth policies to assist them with
youth participation and development At the end of the financial year 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had
youth advisory mechanisms (and 25 out of 29 councils (86 per cent) had a youth policy or strategy
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 101
Local Government
Partnership Agreements
Activities
The Department continued to be involved in evaluating or re-negotiating issues to be included in
Partnership Agreements with Central Highlands Glamorgan Spring Bay George Town West Coast
Northern Midlands and Circular Head Councils The partnership agreements promote councils
reviewing and developing their youth policies and participatory mechanisms
Contribution towards benchmark
The aim of the partnership agreements program is to find better ways of serving Tasmanian communities by
the two levels of government (State and local government) working together
Partnership agreements are part of the State Governments broader agenda of developing partnerships with
the community to find new opportunities for economic and social development
Local Government Youth
Forums Activities
More than 50 participants attended the ninth annual Local Government Youth Forum (the Forum) in
November 2008 coordinated by the Office of Children and Youth Affairs Twenty-one councils were
represented at the Forum as well as the Youth Network of Tasmania the Local Government
Association of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Participants included youth development
officers deputy mayors alderman councillors general managers and community services managers
Contribution towards benchmark
The annual Local Government Youth Forum supports the exploration and development of youth
participation mechanisms at the local government level It provides an important opportunity for councils to
showcase their youth initiatives and to share effective approaches to youth participation among the local
government youth sector
831
Number of State
Government
Regional
Community
Forums
Regional community
forums
Activities
The Premier announced in late 2007-08 a new program of regional forums The forums complement
the sitting of Parliament scheduled for the North and North-West
Contribution towards Benchmark
Community forums provide communities with the opportunity to have their say on issues direct to
government They help to establish better connections between government councils and the community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 101
Local Government
Partnership Agreements
Activities
The Department continued to be involved in evaluating or re-negotiating issues to be included in
Partnership Agreements with Central Highlands Glamorgan Spring Bay George Town West Coast
Northern Midlands and Circular Head Councils The partnership agreements promote councils
reviewing and developing their youth policies and participatory mechanisms
Contribution towards benchmark
The aim of the partnership agreements program is to find better ways of serving Tasmanian communities by
the two levels of government (State and local government) working together
Partnership agreements are part of the State Governments broader agenda of developing partnerships with
the community to find new opportunities for economic and social development
Local Government Youth
Forums Activities
More than 50 participants attended the ninth annual Local Government Youth Forum (the Forum) in
November 2008 coordinated by the Office of Children and Youth Affairs Twenty-one councils were
represented at the Forum as well as the Youth Network of Tasmania the Local Government
Association of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Youth Forum Participants included youth development
officers deputy mayors alderman councillors general managers and community services managers
Contribution towards benchmark
The annual Local Government Youth Forum supports the exploration and development of youth
participation mechanisms at the local government level It provides an important opportunity for councils to
showcase their youth initiatives and to share effective approaches to youth participation among the local
government youth sector
831
Number of State
Government
Regional
Community
Forums
Regional community
forums
Activities
The Premier announced in late 2007-08 a new program of regional forums The forums complement
the sitting of Parliament scheduled for the North and North-West
Contribution towards Benchmark
Community forums provide communities with the opportunity to have their say on issues direct to
government They help to establish better connections between government councils and the community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 102
832
Ministerial and
agency review
through the
Parliamentary
process
Activities
This indicator is about Parliamentary processes information on the indicator is merely provided by the
Department of Premier and Cabinet on the basis of data supplied from Parliament The only activity managed
by the Department is the seeking of this information
The activity itself (ie scrutiny of Ministers and relevant agencies) is managed by the members of Parliament
The activity is measured by
the hours of sitting time per week of the House of Assembly that are set aside for non-government
business
the percentage of Questions without Notice in the House of Assembly that are asked by non-
government members
the hours of sitting time the House of Assembly devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets by
estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
the hours of sitting time the Legislative Council was devoted to the scrutiny of agency and GBE budgets
by estimates and GBE Scrutiny Committees
841
Level of
satisfaction with
government
services provided
through Service
Tasmania
Customer survey report Activities
Gauging of customer satisfaction with Service Tasmania services through customer survey Five
customer surveys have been conducted since 1999 Results to date have been very high with overall
customer satisfaction consistently measuring above 93 per cent The most recent customer survey
was conducted in June 2008 with 96 per cent of respondents reporting that they were very satisfied
or quite satisfied with Service Tasmania The methodology has been enhanced (and the sample size
increased) since the first telephone survey in 1999 and the most recent survey included respondents
who completed face-to-face online and telephone-based surveys
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is a customer-focused approach to delivering government services over the counter online
and over the phone It aims to make it easier for Tasmanians especially in rural and regional areas to do their
everyday business with government
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 103
842
Number of
Service Tasmania
over the counter
over the phone
and online
government
services provided
to communities
Provision of government
services through Service
Tasmania
Activities
Service Tasmania operates a network of 27 shops across Tasmania including many shops in rural and
regional areas The shops operate on the principle that any service available in Hobart and
Launceston is also available at any other Service Tasmania shop in the State
Almost 550 discrete services are offered through Service Tasmania shops These include State
Commonwealth and local government services Forty-three different bill types can be paid over the
phone or online
Service Tasmania operates the One Number for Government (1300 13 55 13) which provides
centralised access to all areas of government This service provides call resolution services on behalf
of a range of agencies and business units and a forms by phone service for customers to obtain
application and information forms Service Tasmania also offers a range of over-the-phone bill
payment services to customers that are available 24 hours a day seven days a week
Service Tasmania Online (wwwservicetasgovau) is a resource discovery site and a gateway to a
comprehensive range of services across the three tiers of government The Service Tasmania Online
site is available 24 hours a day seven days a week In addition to an extensive range of government
information and documentation customers can access online bill payment services application forms
and the Ask Service Tasmania help desk function
Work continues with the overall aim of increasing the number of customer services available through
Service Tasmaniarsquos three service delivery channels (over the counter over the phone and over the
Internet)
A new funding model for Service Tasmania shops was implemented during 2007-08 This funding
model reflects new financial arrangements for the delivery of services in Service Tasmania shops and
the development and implementation process has involved all Tasmanian Government agencies
Arrangements and agreements with Tasmanian Government client agencies as well as local and
Australian Government partnerships have been monitored and where possible developed to include
new andor enhanced services Discussions with client agencies in relation to formulating new service
level agreements (which will apply for a three-year period) will be finalised in early 2009
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania continues to provide a full range of government services to the community Service
Tasmania regularly gauges customer satisfaction and perception in the Tasmanian community
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 104
843
People who feel
comfortable
contacting
someone in
government for
information
Service Tasmania Activities
Service Tasmania aims to make it easy for all Tasmanians to access government services particularly
in rural and regional areas Service Tasmania Online available 24 hours a day seven days a week can
be used for payments enquiries document downloads and research The phone channel can be used
for payments and to request advice information and documentation Messages can be left outside
business hours The Service Tasmania network of 27 shops provides over-the-counter service to
communities across Tasmania The Ask Service Tasmania online form facility also exists for customers
to email their enquiries
Contribution towards benchmark
The community is the primary beneficiary of government services and services needs to be structured to
ensure that members of the community are comfortable accessing them and can be informed about services
and support to which they are entitled
844
Proportion of
people who have
difficulty
accessing
government
services
Delivery of government
services through Service
Tasmania outlets
telephone services and
online
Child and Family Centres
Social inclusion
Activities
A range of ways for people to contact Service Tasmania was provided through shops online and
over the phone
Service Tasmania is also involved in the ongoing management of an Access and Equity Strategy and the
Governmentrsquos Disability Action Plan and provided support to the Early Years Inter-Departmental
Committee to identify locations for new Child and Family Centres in areas of need around Tasmania
These centres will improve the accessibility of early learning and support services for children and
families by providing one-stop-shops in central locations for a variety of related services
Contribution towards benchmark
Service Tasmania is committed to the continuation of its three-channel service delivery model Customers
continue to have a choice in the way they interact with government via Service Tasmania and can use the
phone channel the shop network or the Internet to complete transactions pay bills or to obtain information
and documentation It is the ongoing aim of Service Tasmania to work with agencies to continually increase
the range of services that are available online and over the phone particularly for those customers who are
unable or unwilling to attend a Service Tasmania shop
Service accessibility is a key issue for social inclusion and DPAC will work with all spheres of government and
the community sector to improve accessibility to services for socially excluded individuals and communities
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 105
Companion Card program Activities
Metro became an affiliate to the Companion Card Program in March 2008 Catching a bus is an
important way for cardholders to participate in Tasmanian community life
At 30 June 2008 there were 767 registered cardholders and 95 affiliated businesses including state
and local government and is generously supported by the private sector
Contribution towards benchmark
The Companion Card is for people who due to their disability require life-long attendant care to participate
at most community facilities and events Cardholders present their card when purchasing a ticket at
participating organisations to enable them to receive a ticket for their companion carer at no extra charge
Disability Framework for
Action 2005-2010
Activities
Each Government Agency prepared a Disability Action Plan (DAP) Representatives of the disability
sector were invited to meet and share information with the DAP inter-departmental committee
These introductions have been helpful in connecting people with disability with government
Contribution towards benchmark
As a primary deliverer of services to the community it is important that government services recognise and
support the varying needs of members of the community
1241
Levels of
greenhouse gas
emissions
(megatonnes) for
2010 (86 Mt
CO2-e)
Established the
Tasmanian Climate
Change Office
Activities
The Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 commenced operation on 1 December 2008 The Act
sets a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050 It also
provides for the establishment of interim targets and the Tasmanian Climate Action Council
The priorities identified in the Framework for Action for Reducing the Tasmanian Governmentrsquos
Greenhouse Gas Emissions are being implemented by government agencies An inventory of the
Governmentrsquos emissions and a new emissions monitoring and reporting system have been
established Emissions Reduction Plans have been developed by agencies
The Tasmanian Climate Action Council has been established and met twice during the year
Initiatives identified in the Tasmanian Framework for Action on Climate Change are being implemented
These include the establishment of the Partnership Agreement on Climate Change with local
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
Department of Premier and Cabinet - Annual Report 2008-09 106
government and a wedges analysis of the Tasmanian economy to identify emissions reduction
opportunities and to introduce Climate Change Impact Statements for Cabinet decisions
The Department coordinated the State Governmentrsquos position in the development of national
climate policy under COAG
The new ClimateConnect community grants program has been developed and launched and the first
funding round of the program has been finalised
Contribution towards benchmark
The release of the State and Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories in June 2009 revised Tasmaniarsquos emissions
figures to 85 megatonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) for 2007 As a result Tasmania Together
indicator 1241 Levels of greenhouse gas emissions (megatonnes) for 2010 (86 Mt CO2-e) has been achieved
ahead of time The benchmark figures may be revised once interim emissions reduction targets are
established under the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008
1242
Number of
Tasmanian
businesses
participating in
the AGOrsquos
Greenhouse
Challenge Plus
greenhouse gas
abatement
program
Earn Your Stars campaign Activities
A community awareness campaign was developed to increase community understanding about
climate change and what individuals businesses and government can do to tackle the climate change
problem The first stage of the Earn Your Stars campaign launched by the Premier in July 2008
consists of a television advertisement and website (wwwclimatehchangetasgovau)
The Department has recently commenced work to provide targeted information about climate
change greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the Commonwealth Governmentrsquos proposed
Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to Tasmania small and medium enterprises
The ClimateConnect community grants program was established to provide grants to community
organisations to help them reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency
Over the past year the Tasmanian Climate Change Office has provided over 100 presentations on
climate change to a wide variety of organisations including large businesses small and medium
enterprises peak bodies trade unions local government and community groups
Contribution towards benchmark
The Commonwealth Government announced the cessation of the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Program in its
2009-10 budget The Department assists in raising awareness about climate change and encourage
government business and community members to take action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions