State Platform 2009

Authorised by John Dowling Level 2, 63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000
Contents
Forward: John Dowling, State Secretary Chapter 1: A Statement of Labors Beliefs Chapter 2: Education and Training Chapter 3: Health, women and youth Chapter 4: Resource management and development Chapter 5: Government and infrastructure Chapter 6: Cultural and heritage Chapter 7: Community, human and transport services Appendix 1: Achievements in government and infrastructure policy 3 4 7 9 24 39 54 59 81
Appendix 2: Achievements in community, human and transport services policy Notes
87
96
Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000
Forward
The Australian Labor Party Tasmanian Branch State Platform is a constantly evolving statement of principles and policy, underpinned by enduring Labor values. This State Platform, most recently updated at the 2009 State Conference, held in Hobart, July 25-26 sets out the current and future policy framework for the ALP Tasmanian Branch. The platform in 2009 has developed through our six policy issue committees, which make up the chapters of this platform. They include Education and training, Health, women and youth, Resource management and development, Government and infrastructure, Cultural and heritage and Community, human and transport services. The policy committees, consisting of rank and file party members, meet regularly throughout the year and discuss and develop policy statements that define the Australian Labor Party. All policy platform committees are directed by policy motions introduced and voted on by delegates at our annual State Conference and therefore represent the direct policy ideas of all our members. The 2009 State Platform is then endorsed by the state Conference through a democratic deliberation of our party membership. The State Platform in 2009 provides party members with a clear direction of the future of the ALP Tasmanian Branch. It is a socially and economically progressive policy and is fundamentally underpinned by the founding socialist thinking that unites us all as Labor party members. I encourage all members and supporters to help directly shape the future policy direction of our party and to continue to contribute to the State Platform in the future.
John Dowling State Secretary
Chapter 1: A Statement of Labors Beliefs

Preamble
1 2
This document affirms the fundamental beliefs, values and aspirations of the Australian Labor Party, Tasmania Branch as stated in the Objectives of its Constitution. The ALP is constituted by a widely representative community of interest framed in accordance with the belief that it is a fundamental right of Australians to belong to the political organisation of their choice. This right to freedom of association is a critical tenet of Australian democracy, which exemplifies the aims and aspirations of the ALP. The ALP has historically been the main voice through which such rights have been secured in Australia. The ALP will continue to be at the forefront of this process, in strengthening and reinforcing existing rights, in the elimination of discrimination and inequity, and in extending standards of peace and justice to all. The ALP has as its central goal the political and social task of ensuring that all members of the community are afforded dignity and fairness, by government, by the legal process and by each one to another. In this way, the ALP gives effect to its democratic socialist foundations and principles in a way which is contemporary and relevant in achieving its political and social values of equality, democracy, liberty and social cooperation. In doing so, the ALP emphasises the importance to Australia of a pluralist and multicultural society with mutually strong and complementary public and private sectors. The ALP therefore recognises and endorses the mixed economic system which prevails in Australia, where both the public and private sectors contribute to economic and social activity through the provision of a variety of goods and services. It recognises that there are inherited and established imbalances and believes that market forces left to their own devices deliver inordinate economic power and influence into the hands of a few. The ALP believes that there is a need for strategic intervention by government in the economic life of society to redress individual and community imbalances, whether based on disadvantage or discrimination, or where market forces alone fail to provide equity and accessibility. In this respect, the relevance of a democratic socialist party in the contemporary national and global system concerns the pursuit of social justice and its accompanying goals of full employment and poverty eradication. This demands that government be appropriately interventionist and regulatory in order to ensure that individual enterprise and private capital investment occurs alongside equal access to opportunity, environmental protection, necessary labour rights, and benchmark welfare entitlements. The ALP recognises that to deliver these benefits, fundamental changes to institutional structures and processes may be necessary. The ALP believes that this requires a fair distribution of resources and opportunities, which balance competing community objectives and individual needs. In striving to achieve a just and tolerant society, in which the rights of individuals are nurtured and protected and basic life needs met, the ALP commits itself to the mutual achievement of three objectives:
An active pursuit of policies and measures to achieve the fundamental principles of social justice, with particular regard to the more disadvantaged and disenfranchised within the community;
An active partnership between government and the community, based on mutual understanding, consultation on areas of public interest, and on developing the inherent strengths of local communities; and An active government willing to respond to public needs and to fostering the realisation of individual aspirations, based on open and accountable decision-making, and fair and equitable fiscal and resource management.
Principles of social justice

8
It is the ALPs commitment to facilitating the realisation of the potential and aspirations of all members of the community, and its view that government has a rightful and important role in promoting the achievement of that realisation, that sets the ALP apart from other political groups. This is also the core from which policy must be developed. The view of the ALP is that the principle of equal opportunity for all members of the community must be observed in relation to every policy position of the ALP, and to every decision of the ALP in government. The ALP believes that all members of the community are entitled, and must be able, to access the resources of the state, whether those resources be community property, community services or community assistance. The ALP will strive to ensure that a central focus in government will be to implement an integrated equity strategy which allocates public resources and delivers public services according to the fundamental social justice principles of equity, access, participation and fairness. The ALP believes that it is inappropriate and improper to favour the views of any sectional interest in society to the detriment of the broader community interest. The ALP acknowledges that this also requires measures to redress social and economic inequity, and is committed to empowering and assisting groups who are disadvantaged through reasons of age, culture, economic circumstances, gender, race, religion or sexuality.
10
Principles of community partnership

11
The ALP believes that government policy is of little value without widespread community understanding, participation and support, and will ensure that the community plays a role as a partner of government, just as government needs to be an integral part of the community. An ALP government will work to build a spirit of co-operation with all members and sections of the Tasmanian community. The ALP believes that the spirit of helping each other by co-operative effort is essential to enriching community life where individuals can pursue their goals in harmony with the rest of the community. In particular, the ALP is committed to developing a co-operative spirit at neighbourhood and community levels. The ALP rejects the assumption that narrowly based self interest is the appropriate way to achieve these goals.
12
Principles of good government

13
A key difference between the ALP and other political parties is the philosophy adopted regarding the role of government in meeting and nurturing society's expectations and needs. The ALP believes that government plays a number of strategic and critical roles in planning and facilitating the overall social, environmental and economic objectives of the community. This occurs at three levels.
14
First, it is government which is best able to provide the strategic leadership and longer term planning needed to give effect to a vision for future society. Whilst the private sector has a critical role in the provision and delivery of goods and services which underpin social expectations, government has the responsibility for setting the framework and mechanisms for ensuring that those expectations are met. Second, the ALP believes that government has a role in strategically managing and directly facilitating the achievement of these objectives, through the judicious allocation of public resources and by ensuring an appropriate institutional and legislative framework and, where necessary, market regulation and management. Third, the ALP believes that the decisions and actions of government must be relevant, transparent and accountable. This requires public consultation as a standard practice of good government, public disclosure of policy and fiscal decisions, and continued reform of public institutions, including of the parliament itself. In short, the ALP believes that the delivery of the fundamental social justice objectives in a market economy can only be assured through government involvement and leadership, including strategic planning and regulation to meet social needs and in harnessing public resources, and consultative, transparent and accountable government.
15
16
17
Tasmanian labors fundamental goals

18
On the basis of these principles, the ALP believes that there are basic human needs and rights that must be satisfied. These include the rights of all people to have access to sustenance, shelter, education, employment, health care, choice, a clean and healthy environment, freedom and protection by the law. The ALP recognises that the economic environment is not unlimited to provide such services, and as such community resources, be they in private or public hands, should be put to best use. The ALP believes that it is the duty of government to ensure that these services are accessible to all. The ALP recognises the inter-relationship between social, economic and environmental goals. It believes that employment is as much a social right as an economic means, and that it should be worthwhile and dignified. It recognises the responsibility to future generations to care for the natural environment upon which all economic and social activity ultimately depends.
19
Chapter 2: Education & Technology

Principles of education
1
Education in Tasmania must nurture personal growth, innovation, creativity and values that sustain democratic life and contribute to a productive and happy social democracy. Tasmanias future prosperity depends on a thriving education system producing a highly trained, skilled and creative workforce serving the needs of industry and the wider community. Labor believes:
Education is a defining part of an individuals growth and self development; Education is the way individuals can gain knowledge and skills; Education is the keystone of a technologically capable society; and Education is an investment in the productive capacity of the nation.
Labors beliefs define Labors goals.
Education is a defining part of an individuals growth and self development

2
Labor will provide integrated and affordable early learning and care that gives every child the best possible start to their education. The education journey begins at birth and continues for life. There are no second class passengers on this journey. Labor will provide clear pathways for academic, technical and work skill development. Labor will support initiatives that enable Tasmanian workers to upgrade and extend their work skills through apprenticeships and training. Labor will provide ongoing adult learning opportunities for all.
3 4 5
Education is the way individuals can gain knowledge and skills

6 7 8 9
Labor will ensure that every child has the opportunity to develop sound literacy and numeracy skills and effectively use Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Labor will seek to lift the learning outcomes of aboriginal children. Labor will provide adequate resources to meet the needs of all children. Labor will provide specialised support for all Tasmanian schools.
10
Labor will develop flexible programs to meet the diverse needs of all students.
Education is the keystone of a technologically capable social democracy

11 12 13 14 15
Labor will promote the value of education and a shared sense of responsibility for education among students, the profession, parents and the wider community. Labor will ensure that school reporting is clear and meaningful to all. Labor will encourage community use of school facilities to develop social and learning networks. Labor will strive for equity in access to learning opportunities available through ICT. Labor will use the National Broadband Network strategy to enhance the educational opportunities for all Tasmanians.
Education is an investment in the productive capacity of the nation

16 17
Labor will develop a skilled and creative workforce that serves the needs of industry and the wider community. Labor will ensure that teacher training in Tasmania draws on current educational theory and practice as well as the experience and expertise of the teaching profession in preparing our future teachers for a career in education. Labor will deliver adequate resourcing to provide for a highly qualified, productive and well remunerated teacher workforce. Labor will ensure the development of a balanced and challenging curriculum. Labor will ensure that all Tasmanian students access stimulating and attractive educational facilities and environments.
18 19 20
Chapter 3: Health, women & youth

Principles of health
1
Labor believes in an integrated Tasmanian health system which has the objective to promote health, to preserve health, to restore health when it is impaired and to minimise suffering and distress, and to establish preventative health measures designed to maximise community wellbeing. Labor recognises that with an ageing population, increase rates of chronic disease and health inflation rising beyond general inflation there is a need to reform the health system to achieve better health outcomes. Labor will support the implementation of Tasmanias Health Plan to achieve equitable, accessible and sustainable health services. Within the Plans framework Labor will:
Ensure services are delivered through a state-wide approach as close as possible to local communities as long as they are safe and sustainable; Ensure health services and programs are integrated into others areas of government; Encourage research programs designed to improve health outcomes, particularly focussing on preventative health measures; Require ongoing evaluation of existing health care services through comprehensive quality assurance and quality management programs; and Consult with health service providers, consumers, and with local communities in the development and implementation of health policy.
Provision of healthcare services

4 5
Labor will promote the better coordination of acute care and primary care; Labor will promote a close liaison between all tiers of government, government agencies, the voluntary sector, the community and the unions to assist policies to be implemented in a coordinated and effective manner Labor will ensure all Tasmanians have access to health care either through the provision of local services or through provision of transport and accommodation support to the nearest site where the required service can be provided safely and sustainably
Health promotion and education

7
Labor will support health education and preventative health measures in schools and the community, which are aimed at preventing ill health, injury and promoting good health and wellbeing outcomes, particularly for children.
Public health
8 9 10
Labor will provide the best possible legislative framework for delivery of public health programs in Tasmania through the Public Health Act. Labor will encourage further co-ordination and linkages between public health, local government and local communities. Labor will encourage public health campaigns in key areas such as lifestyle factors, which influence health and wellbeing outcomes for example smoking, alcohol and obesity.
Dental health
11
Labor will ensure that adequate dental treatment is available to all holders of government concession cards.
Community health services

12
Labor will encourage and promote the delivery of a flexible range of health services including nursing and specialist clinics in community settings or the home, provided these services can be delivered safely, effectively and efficiently. Labor will:
Ensure access to safe and sustainable health services for rural and regional areas and work with the Commonwealth Government to encourage doctors, other health care professionals and allied health workers to practice/work in rural or isolated areas; and Improve transport and accommodation support for people who are required to travel to receive appropriate health care.
Hospital services
13 14 15 16 17 18
Labor will develop acute health services in line with Tasmanias Health Plan. Labor will continue to support the States three major public hospitals. Labor will look at innovative models for acute health care delivery in consultation with communities, medical and nursing staff. Labor will provide opportunities for continuous training and career opportunities for all health workers. Labor will ensure a high standard of ambulance services and other medical transport support is further developed and maintained Labor will ensure access to safe and sustainable specialist medical services.
10
Patients rights
19
Labor will encourage the development of systems in public hospitals to deal with complaints and concerns from patients and to monitor outcomes as part of a continuing quality improvement process.
Mental health
20
Labor will continue to support and work to improve Mental Health Services both in the Government and non-Government sectors and continue to increase the range of mental health services in the community. Labor will ensure that support is available for families and carers dealing with mental health issues when needed and ensure appropriate care for young people in accessing mental health services.
21
Alcohol and drugs

22
Labor will review policies and programs across Government to:
23
Reduce the consumption of alcohol and tobacco; Reduce the incidences of misuse of pharmaceutical drugs and the non-medical use of other drugs; Prioritise to preventative, educative and community-based programs rather than institutional, remedial or compulsory schemes; and Continue to support the further development of a best practice pharmacotherapy program, including methadone.
Labor will promote public education and awareness campaigns about the health dangers of alcohol tobacco and other drug use and reduce public advertising of alcohol, tobacco products, and other drugs of addiction. Labor will support and increase access to harm minimisation policies such as the Needle Availability Program and work with the community sector to improve the implementation of these policies.
24
Blood borne viruses and sexually transmitted infections

25
Labor will ensure that there is an appropriate legislative framework to underpin services to support people with a blood borne virus and in line with national efforts, pursue strategies to minimise the transmission of blood borne viruses and sexually transmitted infections, with a focus on education and prevention. Labor will promote measures to support people infected with blood borne viruses and sexually transmitted infections through:
26
11
Diagnosis, treatment and support; Care and health maintenance; Research; Monitoring and Surveillance; and Workforce development.
Aboriginal health
27
Labor will continue to support Aboriginal medical services and encourage the development of services with the Aboriginal community.
Mens health
28
Labor will continue to promote initiatives to improve outcomes in relation to mens health with a particular emphasis on preventative measures.
Sexual assault support services

29
Labor will ensure that Sexual Assault Services receive adequate funding to provide consistent state-wide services including: Crisis intervention services; Counselling, support and advocacy services; Empowerment education; and Preventative education including financial counselling.
Sport, recreation and fitness

30
Labor believes sport, recreation and physical activity is essential for both physical and mental health and well-being and plays an important part in preventative health programs. The principal objective is to promote the development of a comprehensive, state-wide sporting and recreational system that caters for and supports all sections of the community, from participation programs to high performance sport. Labor recognises that Government financial assistance for such systems is likely to contribute to long-term cost savings in the provision of public health services. Labor will ensure physical education and sport will be maintained as a fundamental activity in schools and within the community as a whole. Labor will make every endeavour to ensure all members of the community have access to sport, recreation and physical activity opportunities, with particular attention to those groups whose participation rates are traditionally low. Labor will support the ongoing education and development of sport and recreation providers to improve the quality of experience offered to participants.
31 32 33
34
12
35 36 37 38 39
Labor will ensure the provision of appropriate sport and recreation facilities, playing fields and equipment that meet community needs and encourage multi-purpose and shared use. Labor will make available the expertise of sporting and recreation specialists to all communities through Sport and Recreation Tasmania. Labor will provide support for community-focused programs that have been established to address barriers to participation in sport, recreation and physical activity. Labor will ensure that adequate resources are available through Sport and Recreation Tasmania to increase participation opportunities throughout the Tasmanian community. Labor will co-ordinate available sporting, recreation and physical activity programs and facilities offered to the community by voluntary, commercial and Government organisations so that shared use of these facilities is maximised.
Tasmanian institute of sport

40
Labor will continue to support the Tasmanian Institute of Sport and encourage the Institute to continue to develop programs for our leading athletes and provide the best possible opportunity for them to pursue their goals while remaining in Tasmania. Labor will support the Institute to remain at the forefront of advances in sport technology as part of the national elite sports network.
41
Premiers physical activity council

42
Labor will provide ongoing support for the Premiers Physical Activity Council, recognising the key role it plays in the facilitation of projects and programs designed to develop healthier and more active communities. Labor will ensure that, as part of this ongoing commitment, government policies, strategies and programs reflect the aspirations and goals of the council.
High quality sporting facilities

43
Labor will work with Sport and Recreation Tasmania and other relevant sport and recreation bodies to help ensure the upgrade of sporting facilities in addition to those already hosting national and international events to meet adequate standards for both community and elite sport needs, with a focus on shared and multi-purpose.
Workforce health and wellbeing

44
Labor will co-operate closely with the trade union movement in seeking to have employers provide occupational health and wellbeing programs for employees, with the aim of increasing productivity.
13
State and local government recreation strategic plan

45
Labor will develop, in conjunction with local government, a strategic plan to co-ordinate the work of state and local government in recreation development throughout the State.
Development of sport and recreation for people with a disability

46
Labor will give priority to the development of strong and representative community-based organisations at the state level that co-ordinate, promote and develop inclusive sport, recreation and physical activity opportunities for people with a disability.
Women
47
Labor believes women have the right to participate in society fully and without discrimination. Labors objective is to ensure that women are able to fully and equally participate in society politically, economically, socially to the full extent of their choice without fear of discrimination or exclusion on the basis of gender, gender preference, marital status, or parenting responsibilities. Labor recognises:
48
The continuing economic dependence of women is a barrier to the comprehensive realisation of their human rights, and to the economic development of this country and state; The disadvantages which women face in education, training and subsequent employment must be addressed if women are to participate fully in the economy; The right of women to work and the value of womens unpaid work; Barriers to womens full participation in the workforce and economic life must be removed, including lack of child care, unequal access to employment, education and training, infrastructure and support and services, and inadequate retirement income; and The need to formally monitor policy implementation as it relates to women.
49
Labor will: Increase the number of women represented in public life, Parliaments, Ministries and within the Party; Consult women (especially those who may be relatively socially or economically marginalised or disenfranchised within the community) to ensure their special needs are specifically identified and addressed, and to ensure they have a voice and have the choice to participate in the decision-making process; and Ensure womens access to education, training and employment programs to facilitate their labour force re-entry, and increase opportunities for economic participation through self employment.
14
Political Equality
50
Labor will:
Increase the representation of women in Parliament including, in elections involving two or more positions, to at least 40% of elected positions; Ensure that women represent at least 50% of government nominees on boards and committees; Maintain and promote the use of a Womens Register; for appointment to Government boards and committees and provide governance training for women;
Maintain Women Tasmania as a central unit within the Department of Premier and Cabinet, for the purposes of promoting womens full social and economic participation, and for ensuring that Government policies and programs are responsive to the needs of women; Maintain a Womens Consultative Council which represents the diversity of Tasmanian women to advise Government on the needs of women; and
Adequately resource the implementation and monitoring of anti-discrimination, equal employment opportunity and affirmative action legislation;
Economic Independence
51
Labour affirms the rights of women to financial inclusion and full economic participation. Labor will:
Fund programs which provide opportunities for women to pursue self-employment (such as business mentoring and micro-credit programs for women); Fund social and community enterprise programs to assist low income and disadvantaged women participate in the economy; Implement financial literacy training programs for women aimed at different life-stages including younger women; and Work with the Education Department and other educational institutions to develop a culture of entrepreneurship within Tasmanian schools, and communities.
Carers
52
Labor will:
Implement training programs in stress management techniques, self-awareness and self help as part of a caring for the carer strategy; Include as part of this, training management strategies related to the condition of the individual for whom they care; Ensure the maintenance of communication networks and reliable information about available government services; and
15
Increase opportunities for respite care.
Gender policy development

53
Labor will ensure that policies relating to gender equity are incorporated in:
54
Staff recruitment, selection and promotion; In-service and retraining provisions; Provision of specialist support services; System and school evaluation provisions; Decision-making structures and processes; and An annual status report to Parliament on the implementation of the above.
Labor will: Provide equitable allocation of funds and facilities to girls;
Develop sex-integrated programs of physical education and sport through as much of the schooling system as possible; Develop appropriate curricular and resource material for girls physical education and sport programs; Emphasise the social, non-competitive aspects of sport and physical activity through new sport, modified sports and non-traditional activities with a view to educating children in sound practices designed to ensure life-long maintenance of an optimum standard of health; Develop links between schools, school systems and the media to ensure that achievements of girls in sport and new developments are effectively publicised; and Train physical education specialists for primary schools.
Post compulsory schooling

55
Labor will fund the provision of training for teachers, particularly teachers involved in careers education, to assist them to develop structures to encourage young women to:
56
Be aware of the importance of optional subject choices to career options; Continue their education beyond post compulsory schooling; and Consider careers in science, engineering and information technology.
Labor will implement community education for women with special needs in relation to information technology, including indigenous women, those of non-English speaking background and women with a disability; Labor will encourage and assist the development at the tertiary level of womens studies programs and research focusing on womens needs and contributions; and
57
16
58
Labor will encourage and assist tertiary institutions to implement policies to rectify the underrepresentation of women in senior teaching and research positions.
Vocational education and training

59 60 61 62 63
Labor will ensure competency standards and accreditation processes recognise skills acquired and used by women. Labor will ensure the recognition of prior learning of women, particularly of women of nonEnglish speaking backgrounds. Labor will fund vocational education and training courses for women seeking to enter or reenter the paid workforce. Labor will fund the provision of programs, which encourage young women to enter nontraditional areas of work. Labor will encourage the identification and removal of barriers, which restrict womens access to vocational education and training.
Employment and training

64
Labor will introduce and resource an Affirmative Action program for women employees, provide paid parental leave to its employees, provide unpaid long-term family leave to its employees, modify the State Government Superannuation scheme to accommodate workers with interrupted work patterns, recognise needs of employees with family responsibilities and enact Equal Employment Opportunities Legislation. Through Women Tasmania Labor will consider such issues as:
65
66
Occupational health and safety; Non-English speaking background women in the workforce; Isolated women; Womens employment status; Sexual harassment;
Labor will address the needs of long-term unemployed women and women returning to the workforce, review State awards to remove discriminatory provisions, take steps to ensure equal pay for work of comparable value, introduce affirmative action programs for women to achieve equality in all areas of employment and training and provide infrastructure support to women for enterprise development and recognise and celebrate their successes.
Adult education
67
Labor will seek to promote life-long learning through adult education, and new point and assess the needs of women with the purpose of removing barriers to their participation in Adult Education.
17
Social Equity
68
Labor will:
Maintain a policy focus on womens health; Ensure that adequate breast screening and cervical cancer services are available to women; Ensure that women have access to appropriate family planning services; Ensure that women have access to excellent pre-natal, birthing, neo-natal and post natal services; Introduce measures to improve nutrition, and health and well-being outcomes for women, including support services to resolve eating disorders; and Work with media and community organisations to seek to promote images of women as healthy active contributors to society, and to reduce images which lead to the sexual objectification of women.
Violence
69
Labor will:
Ensure accessible and equitable justice for women and their children; Maintain a criminal justice system in which perpetrators are held accountable for their behaviour; Ensure judicial officers, law enforcement personnel and other professionals within the legal system have appropriate knowledge and expertise; Design, implement and evaluate perpetrator treatment programs at the earliest where violence is emerging in a relationship, as well as for high risk offenders; Ensure that services meet the needs of women and their children, through strengthening services and workforce capacity and increasing access to safe accommodation; Provide counselling and support services to children affected by family violence (recognising the significant impact family violence has on children; Promote respectful relationships through building the capacity for prevention education, ensuring all children participate in respectful relationships education and supporting effective parenting; Provide leadership in building safe communities to ensure change is achieved and sustained, by focusing on prevention, strengthening community leadership awareness and understanding, promoting positive male behaviours and enhancing women's economic independence; and Provide state-wide sexual assault support services for women.
18
Shelter
70
Labor will:
Ensure that women and children are provided with appropriate, secure and affordable housing; Support growth of the co-operative and co-housing sector to better meet the needs of women, and in particular women with disabilities and senior women; Ensure that residential tenancy legislation fairly balances the rights between owners and tenants, with particular regard to the right of women and children to reside in safe and healthy accommodation;
Review planning laws to ensure that when constructing houses, regard is made to
providing related social infrastructure so as to create socially inclusive, family friendly suburbs; and Provide information on, and access to, the full range of housing and financial options including financial counselling.
Youth
71
Labor believes that young people are very important to the future of Tasmania. Labors youth objective is to provide all Tasmanian young people with the opportunities, which ensure that they may choose to remain in the state in order to reach their full potential. Labor believes that the development of young people is best achieved in a community context that shifts the focus from the specific problem-solving approach to a more holistic community-oriented approach. Labor believes successful communication with young people, both directly and through their various representatives, is central to giving young people a strong voice in our community and to achieving Labors youth strategy; Labor recognises that todays youth face enormous problems and if young Tasmanians are to effectively participate in the community, we must actively address issues such as unemployment, family breakdown, drug and alcohol abuse and homelessness and the brain drain of young people leaving the state. Labor further recognises the importance of mentoring programmes in the development of our young people and assisting them to reach their full potential; Labor will:
72
73
74
75 76
Commit to the development and implementation of a comprehensive youth strategy for Tasmania; Consult with the youth sector and meet the identified challenges with a common sense approach and grass roots-based solutions; Provide adequate resources to meet the needs of the youth sector, in Government and non-Government organisations, so that they can provide young people with strong representation and assist in dealing with the problems of youth; and
19
Ensure access and equity of youth services for all young people regardless of location, cultural or ethnic background, disability or sexual identity.
20
Non-government youth organisations

77
Labor will work to properly integrate and facilitate the activities and services these organisations provide to young people and provide some centralised training for volunteer and professional nongovernment youth workers, particularly focusing on issues involving government expertise, such as employment, the legal system, family relationships, housing, health issues, drug abuse and sexual abuse.
The government sector

78
Labor will require all departments to prepare an Agency Youth Policy including broad principles and specific objectives for implementation across specific programs.
Developing an action plan for the youth sector

79
Labor will:
Conduct an audit of youth services being currently provided by local government and provide support to local government to try to ensure some continuity in delivery of youth services throughout the state; Conduct an audit of non-government youth services; Provide support for local communities to develop Community Youth Plans for submission to Government, which address local youth issues and are coordinated through local government; Facilitate debate around Community Youth Plans with each Plan being reviewed by the Youth Advisory Council; and Investigate mechanisms to facilitate access and equity of youth services for all young people regardless of location, cultural or ethnic background, disability or sexual identity.
Training our youth

80
Labor will develop specific initiatives to improve access to vocational education and training programs for disadvantaged groups such as young women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and young people with disabilities. Labor will provide incentives for government departments, statutory authorities and local government to take on more trainees under the Australian Vocational Certificate Training System.
81
Youth Employment
82
Labor will examine the feasibility of a specific Youth Employment Service employing advocate in each of the three regions of Tasmania to provide personal assistance to young people who are disadvantaged in the labour market.
21
83 84
Labor will address all existing barriers to the employment of young people with a view to removing such barriers Labor will abolish age based wage rates.
Youth Housing
85
Labor will ensure the provision of appropriate public housing for young people.
Youth Health
86
Labor will establish a Youth Health Policy Unit within the Department of Health & Human Services with specific responsibility for developing a state-wide Youth Health Policy in consultation with non-government youth service agencies. Labor will make the Youth Health Policy the centrepiece of Labors strategy in government and will focus on three specific areas: reinvigorating the role of government, better resourcing families and local communities in the fight against youth health problems, and addressing alcohol and drug problems. Labor will continue to provide preventative and primary health services for young people.
87
88
Empowering local communities and families

89
Labor will:
Develop a three-year local government youth program in Tasmanias three major regions; Continue to provide support for community organisations or Neighbourhood Houses aimed at improving social and living skills for young people and parents; Assess the current adequacy of funding for the provision of family mediation and counselling services with a view to increasing their effectiveness; and Ensure cross program and interdepartmental service provision is well coordinated in order to maximise the use of resources.
Youth Suicide
90
Labor will continue to ensure the provision of training for teachers, health professionals and youth workers to enable the early detection of suicidal behaviours.
Youth Justice
91
Labor will ensure that children have access to justice, in particular access to legal advice and legal representation.
22
92
Labor will review the operation of the Youth Justice Act and of the Children, Young Persons and their Families Act three years into their operation.
Tasmanias decentralised population

93
Labor will address regional inequities.
Youth political participation

94
Labor will encourage young people to be involved in the political process.
23
Chapter 4: Human and transport services

Principle for Managing our land and built environment
1 2
Labor believes that Tasmanias land assets should be sustainably allocated and managed for the benefit of all Tasmanians. Labor believes that the economic opportunity arising from the use of Tasmanias land should be maximised to the degree it does not unreasonably compromise the unique lifestyle and natural environment enjoyed by Tasmanians.
Planning and development

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Labor believes that the Governments approach to planning and development should seek to balance and maximise economic, social and environmental outcomes. Labor believes that the expansion of Tasmanias built environment must be planned carefully so that it is provided with adequate and lasting supporting infrastructure. Labor believes that built industrial developments are an important contributor to Tasmanias economy and productivity. Labor believes that urban planning must take long-term considerations and challenges into account. Labor believes that Aboriginal, historical and ongoing cultural values are important in land management planning. Labor believes that the Government should do its utmost to avoid and eliminate social isolation. Labor recognises the important role of planning in tackling the challenges of housing and transport affordability. Labor will require planning schemes to consider, where relevant:
Expected settlement patterns throughout Tasmania; Changing demographics and the expected service needs of Tasmanians; Connectivity between cities, towns and regional areas; Access to recreational spaces; Access to services; The promotion of social equality and social inclusion; Housing affordability; Availability of public transport and affordability of private transport; The protection of built and cultural heritage;
24
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Ecological sustainability, including the availability of land and water resources and the protection of natural heritage and threatened species; The requirements of industries, particularly those industries that rely on Tasmanias natural advantages; The development, maintenance, sustainability of and expected future demands on supporting infrastructure; The impact of climate change on land use decisions; and The impacts of potential noise, air, water and other forms of pollution on human health.
Labor will develop a consistent framework for local government planning schemes. Labor will require a transparent and consistent approach to local government planning. Labor will support the development of regional planning strategies in conjunction with groups of local councils. Labor will have a comprehensive assessment process for projects of state significance. Labor will assess crown land to determine its best use. Labor will aim to have development proposals considered within specific, realistic and commercially acceptable timeframes. Labor will allow all interested members of the public a reasonable opportunity to comment on planning and development schemes and proposals. Labor will, through the Governments approach to planning, seek to maximise the social, economic and environmental value of available land.
Waste management & recycling

19 20 21
Labor believes that wastage must be minimised and re-use maximised. Labor recognises that the development of a built environment inevitably leads to waste and pollution. Labor will work towards the elimination of materials that cannot be re-used, recycled or biodegraded except insofar as there are no viable or practical alternatives (in particular the elimination of non-biodegradable plastic bags); Labor will encourage and support all municipal councils to:
22
Develop household recycling collection systems where waste is separated at source; Have separate repositories at waste disposal facilities for all categories of recyclable waste, reusable items and non-recyclable waste. Differentiate waste disposal facilities access charges according to levels of recyclable and non-recyclable waste; and Provide incentives for participation in kerbside recycling.
25
23 24 25
Labor will develop an education campaign to encourage consumer participation in recycling. Labor will investigate the suitability and feasibility of a reusable (and recyclable) container deposit scheme, such as that which operates in South Australia. Labor will adopt Government procurement policies that favour the purchase of recyclable, biodegradable and environmentally friendly materials.
Hazardous waste
26 27 28
Labor will co-operate with the Commonwealth Government in the development of national procedures to monitor the generation, movement and disposal of hazardous waste. Labor will require clear and appropriate warnings and other advice to be present on any facility or container containing hazardous material. Labor will limit to safe levels the amount of contamination by potentially hazardous chemicals allowed in air, soil and water according to sound biological and epidemiological evidence.
Principles for built and cultural heritage

29 30
Labor believes that historical and cultural values are important in land management planning. Labor believes that Tasmanias extensive built heritage be it structures or changes to the landscape should be preserved in a way that maintains examples of all built environment stages of development.
Management and preservation

31 32
Labor will engage local communities and user groups in the management of reserves and public open spaces with which they have a particular connection. Labor will work with primary industries to ensure heritage sites are protected and not disturbed.
Aboriginal heritage
33 34 35
Labor believes that the cultural heritage of Tasmanias original inhabitants must be preserved. Labor believes that Aboriginal people are best able to manage, protect and preserve places of significance in their culture and heritage. Labor believes that Tasmanian Aboriginal people are entitled to land, on which they can practice their own traditions and customs.
26
36 37 38 39 40
Labor recognises the close cultural connection that Aboriginal Tasmanians have with their land. Labor will require the preservation of Aboriginal heritage on both public and private land. Labor will provide incentives to private landowners to protect and preserve Aboriginal heritage and sites. Labor will transfer to the Aboriginal community Crown Land identified as being of significant economic, spiritual, cultural or historical importance to the Aboriginal community. Labor will integrate Aboriginal perspectives, traditional cultural practice and expertise into the management and use of natural resources.
Recreational and community space

41 42 43 44 45 46 47
Labor believes that land must be allocated for community and recreational uses. Labor recognises that the interaction of local communities with recreational and public land is of vital importance to their physical and social wellbeing. Labor recognises that recreational pursuits such as horse riding, bushwalking, hunting, historical motor racing activities and fishing are culturally important to many Tasmanians. Labor will ensure that designated spaces are available and accessible for recreational pursuits and culturally established practices. Labor will establish advisory groups for culturally established practices where required. Labor will ensure that green space is incorporated into urban environments. Labor will provide for community and recreational space - such as sports grounds, walking tracks, parks and playgrounds - in close proximity to all urban residential areas and in rural communities.
27
Principles for managing our natural resources

48 49
Labor believes that Tasmanias abundant renewable resources are one of its natural advantages and will therefore always be an important part of the States economy. Labor believes that Tasmanias natural beauty makes it necessary for resource industries to complement or coexist with tourism and with the preservation of Tasmanias high conservation environmental values. Labor believes that ensuring the continuation and success of Tasmanias resource industries relies on a balance between access to and sustainability of resources. Labor believes that for every resource extracted in Tasmania, the maximum value possible from that resource should be sought. Labor recognises that major infrastructure and downstream processing projects have an important role in adding value in the processing of natural resources. Labor will support projects that add value to Tasmanias natural resources provided they meet stringent environmental, social and economic guidelines for approval. Labor will maximise the benefit to Tasmanians of Tasmanias resource industries by: Developing skills and training of the local workforce to meet the needs of resource industries; and Encouraging local financial interests to invest in resource industries.
50 51 52 53 54
Mining
55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63
Labor recognises that Tasmania is rich in mineral resources. Labor will promote the balanced development of mineral resources taking into account economic, environmental and social issues. Labor will promote geological and geomatic research to identify new opportunities for the extraction of subterranean resources. Labor will encourage exploration for the identification of geothermal energy hotspots. Labor will ensure the protection of the safety, health and welfare of workers in the mining industry as well as the populations living in proximity to their operations. Labor will conduct research that will contribute to best practice in safety for workers in the mining industry by improving the prediction and mitigation of geophysical hazards. Labor will work with the mining industry to facilitate recreational fossicking. Labor will minimise the impact of mine sites on the surrounding environment. Labor will ensure rehabilitation of mine sites so that they are returned as close as possible to their previous state.
28
64
Labor will work with the Australian Government to support the mining industry in adapting to meeting the challenges faced in dealing with the issue of climate change.
Forestry
65 66 67
Labor believes that Tasmanias forest practices are world leading. Labor believes that the future of Tasmanias forest industry rests in resource security, continuous improvement in sustainable practices, and value-adding. Labor believes that the Regional Forest Agreement and the Tasmanian Community Forest Agreement provide an appropriate balance between protection of conservation values and secure access to resources for sustainable development. Labor recognises that over 40 percent of Tasmanias land mass is set aside for conservation purposes. Labor recognises that approximately one million hectares of old growth forest area is in protected reserves. Labor recognises that more than 10,000 Tasmanians rely on forestry for their livelihood. Labor recognises that sustainable forest management has a key role in the solution to climate change. Labor will ensure that our forests are a safe workplace providing skills, personal development opportunities, and appropriate rewards. Labor will ensure that the sustainable management of our multiple use forest maximizes the social and economic benefits to the Tasmanian community, including the provision of craft material, water, horticultural products, and access for beekeeping and recreation. Labor will promote the re-vegetation of catchment areas, farmlands, and cleared land. Labor will facilitate new, regionally-based investment projects that add value to our forests and forest products. Labor will support the integration of tourism initiatives into multiple use planning in our forests. Labor will ensure the application of the Forest Practices Code leads to continuous improvement in all forest practices. Labor will promote the adoption of the Australian Forest Standard by land managers and encourage international recognition of the Standard. Labor will support research to better understand how Tasmanias forests contribute to the States carbon balance. Labor will support research that minimises the environmental and health impacts of regeneration burns including examining alternative uses for forest residues.
68 69 70 71 72 73
74 75 76 77 78 79 80
29
Fisheries
81 82 83
Labor will support the use of management strategies that sustain the economic and social contribution of marine and inland fishing to Tasmanias regional and coastal communities. Labor will develop an ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management based on the principles of ecologically sustainable development. Labor will support the development of a balanced strategy that includes the Tasmanian Marine Protected Areas Strategy whilst providing fair and equitable access to all those with interests in fish and fishing. Labor will provide continued research and assessment of Tasmanias fisheries and their habitats. Labor will support the development and implementation of management plans for the commercial fishing industry to monitor and maintain sustainable fishing practices. Labor will work closely with the Australian Government to ensure that Tasmanias fisheries are not detrimentally impacted by offshore fishing practices. Labor will protect the Tasmanian marine environment from pests and diseases.
84 85 86 87
Agriculture
88
Labor will establish a framework that provides for sustainable land and water use while supporting the continued development and expansion of the agriculture industry in Tasmania. Labor will develop effective marketing strategies that capture information about national and international market trends, concentrating on changing consumer preferences. Labor will promote effective stewardship of environmental values on private land. Labor will protect Tasmanias relative freedom from pests and diseases. Labor will build community partnerships to improve the capacity and confidence of people in rural and regional areas. Labor will assess land use on the basis of social, economic and environmental benefits; Labor will support viability and diversity in agriculture whilst recognising the importance of food production. Labor will support the agricultural industry in dealing with the challenge of climate change.
89 90 91 92 93 94 95
30
Water Management
96 97 98 99
Labor believes that all Tasmanians have the right to access a clean, affordable supply of water. Labor believes that improving the conservation of water requires solutions at a state, regional and household level. Labor believes that water is of vital importance to supporting freshwater and land-based ecosystems. Labor believes that water management should be about striking an appropriate balance between the economic, social and environmental outcomes of water use and conservation. sewerage infrastructure.
100 Labor recognises that Tasmania requires significant additional investment in water and 101 Labor recognises that drought and climate change threaten the supplies of water in
Tasmania.
102 Labor will continue the process of structural water and sewerage infrastructure reform. 103 Labor will establish priorities for water usage in times of water shortage. 104 Labor will establish equitable catchment management regimes for water use and allocation. 105 Labor will apply water restrictions if the supply of water is threatened. 106 Labor will encourage regional water authorities to recycle water for the production of grey
water for appropriate uses.
107 Labor will aim for all Tasmanians to have access to an affordable supply of clean water. 108 Labor will support the development of Tasmanias water infrastructure to protect Tasmanian
businesses from the effects of drought and provide water supply to areas where clean water for household use is not affordably accessible.
109 Labor will ensure that maximum value is extracted from industrial and agricultural water use. 110 Labor will encourage the development and adoption of on-site systems for households and
businesses to increase their water storage, conservation and recycling and reduce their water usage.
111 Labor will provide incentives to households to achieve more sustainable water consumption. 112 Labor will limit the chemical, metal, saline and other forms of pollution of Tasmanias
waterways to levels that avoid significant adverse impact on Tasmanias land, freshwater and marine environments.
31
Principles for protecting our natural environment

113 Labor believes that our natural and cultural heritage must be fostered and our landscapes
protected for environmental, social, cultural, economic, educational and scientific purposes as well as for Tasmanias future.
114 Labor recognises that Tasmanias natural heritage includes unique cultural, scenic and
wilderness values that need protection.
115 Labor recognises that ecological processes and life-support systems must he supported,
preserving our genetic diversity and ecologically sustainable management.
116 Labor recognises that the wellbeing of life on Earth is very much dependent on how we
protect our plants and animals and maintain biodiversity.
117 Labor recognises that all of the community benefits from the sustainable development of
Tasmanias natural resources.
118 Labor recognises that broad community involvement is essential for the achievement of
positive environmental outcomes.
119 Labor recognises that an active, and informed, independent, voluntary environmental and
conservation movement is essential for the achievement and implementation of effective natural resource management.
120 Labor will work with the community to achieve environmental outcomes which maintain our
clean-green image.
121 Labor will maintain or enhance resource quality, maintain productive capacity, and prevent
degradation of our environment.
Natural heritage
122 Labor recognises that almost all of Tasmanias National Parks and World Heritage Areas
have been established by Labor Governments.
123 Labor will support environmental protection through environmental and land management
services.
124 Labor will assess all values, including natural, traditional, cultural and heritage, as well as
economic in land management planning.
125 Labor will ensure sustainable production systems are developed and management practices
are in place that maintain, rehabilitate. or improve biodiversity and ecosystem services.
126 Labor will ensure the impact of threatening processes on systems critical for the
conservation of biodiversity is avoided or minimised.
127 Labor will maintain its world class system of National Parks and Reserves to protect and
conserve natural and cultural values.
32
128 Labor will support the development and implementation of management plans for all
National Parks and Reserves.
129 Labor will provide incentives to local government to encourage the development of local
history societies, heritage trails, and the management of cultural heritage resources.
130 Labor will where relevant, ensure the completion of a social values study before land
management plans can be presented to the public.
131 Labor will engage local communities and user groups in the management of reserves with
which they have a particular connection.
132 Labor will promote effective stewardship of environmental values on private land. 133 Labor will work cooperatively with, and where appropriate fund landowners to restore or
maintain native habitat and wildlife corridors.
134 Labor will compensate landowners prevented from developing or utilising their properties
because of government environmental or cultural decisions.
135 Labor will support measures to identify the most seriously degraded areas and then prioritise
them for immediate remediation and rehabilitation.
Dry land systems

136 Labor will work cooperatively with stakeholders (ie farmers, graziers, foresters, hunters) to
find and implement appropriate, economically feasible and environmentally responsible controls on weeds, pests and diseases.
137 Labor will work with the community and community organisations to continue to improve the
welfare and protection of domestic and agricultural animals.
138 Labor will cooperate with hunting and fishing groups to implement sustainable and humane
management plans for native and introduced game and fish species.
139 Labor will promote the development of property based wildlife management plans as a way
of helping to monitor populations and conserve habitat on private land.
Wetland
140 Labor will ensure adequate conservation of wetland ecosystems through their incorporation
in Tasmania's reserve system.
141 Labor will co-operate with the Commonwealth Government to implement the provisions of
the Ramsar Convention in relation to Ramsar listed wetlands.
142 Labor will provide advice and incentives to private landowners to create, conserve and
manage wetlands on their properties.
33
143 Labor will work co-operatively with local communities and user groups to refine the statewide inventory of wetlands by qualifying typical, unique and sensitive wetland habitats and their communities.
144 Labor will establish wetlands information centres to educate the public on the natural and
cultural values of wetlands.
145 Labor will provide information to hunters and anglers on international, national and state
expectations in relation to sustainable use of resources and animal welfare issues.
Marine species and ecosystems

146 Labor will develop an integrated management planning system that reduces conflict
between development and conservation in coastal, estuarine and marine areas.
147 Labor will support the implementation of the Tasmanian Marine Protected Areas Strategy. 148 Labor will promote the use of habitat mapping to identify typical, unique and sensitive marine
habitats and their communities.
149 Labor will protect estuarine habitat and support environmentally sustainable aquaculture. 150 Labor will work closely with the Australian Government to ensure that Tasmanias fisheries
are not detrimentally impacted by offshore fishing practices.
151 Labor will work closely with the Australian government, international partners and
community groups for the protection of all Cetacean (whale and dolphin) species.
152 Labor will protect the Tasmanian marine environment from pests and diseases.
Coasts
153 Labor recognises that Tasmanias unique coastal environment must be protected. 154 Labor will develop and implement balanced management plans combining sustainable
development with protection of natural, cultural heritage and social values.
155 Labor will develop regional community involvement in coastline issues through consultation. 156 Labor will maintain public access to the coast.
Threats to ecosystems
157 Labor recognises the importance of protecting our unique biodiversity. 158 Labor recognises that the need to prevent processes which may jeopardize our rare,
threatened and endangered species.
34
159 Labor recognises that biodiversity maintenance is the key to healthy ecosystems. 160 Labor recognises that a significant number of ecosystems and native flora and fauna
species are now endangered and require urgent and more effective measures to ensure their survival through adequate preservation.
161 Labor will through the Parks and Wildlife Service and Forestry Tasmania, work with fire
services, landcare groups and other community based groups to ensure the survival of fire dependant ecological communities and mitigate the threat of wildfire to the natural environment as well as to public and private property.
162 Labor will develop programs to educate the community on the dangers to both people and
the environment of wildfire (with a particular aim of eliminating the threat of firebugs).
Weeds, pests and diseases

163 Labor will ensure threats from weeds, pests and diseases are mitigated (e.g. nurseries,
native and feral animals, marine pests, quarantine).
164 Labor will promote research on the environmental effects of and practical control measures
for feral domestic animals.
165 Labor will ensure that stringent biosecurity is maintained to preserve Tasmanias relative
freedom from pests and diseases.
166 Labor will ensure the maintenance of stringent biosecurity for Macquarie Island and
Antarctica.
167 Labor will increase community involvement in both agricutural and environmental weed and
pest eradication programs.
168 Labor will provide resources to enable rapid and flexible response to critical threats from
exotic pests and diseases (both land and marine)(e.g. foxes, carp, devil facial tumour disease).
Rare, threatened and endangered species

169 Labor will ensure that the listing and de-listing of species as 'rare', 'vulnerable' or
'endangered' is based on thorough and objective scientific evidence.
170 Labor will engage community expertise in working with scientists to actively monitor
populations of rare, threatened and endangered species.
171 Labor will support the development of community based programs to assist in the
recognition of threatened species or ecological communities.
Agricultural gene pool

35
172 Labor recognises that the potential effects of modified genes on natural and agricultural
populations or upon consumers of these are not yet well known.
173 Labor recognises the potential benefits for Tasmanias exports of our present status of
freedom from genetically modified organisms.
174 Labor will foster research on potential threats to existing gene pools due to genetically
modified organisms and diversity restricting breeding programs.
175 Labor will review the present moratorium on allowing genetically modified organisms to enter
the State on a regular basis, paying regard to scientific and commercial advice.
Climate Change
176 Labor believes that climate change is the greatest anthropogenic environmental threat to
human survival and to the present biodiversity on Earth
177 Labor believes that governments at all levelslocal, state and nationalhave a role in
tackling climate change and must take urgent action to do so.
178 Labor recognises that there is now general international scientific agreement that there is a
discernable human influence on global climate change.
179 Labor recognises that modelling suggests that without change to present emission regimes,
annual national average temperatures are projected to increase between 0.4C and 2.0C by 2030 and between 1.0C and 6.0C by 2070.
180 Labor recognises that the potential impacts of climate change include: Loss of ecosystems and biodiversity Less secure water supplies and decreasing water quality; Increases in extreme weather events including coastal flooding and significant
increases and decreases in rainfall (depending on the region); and Detrimental impacts on essential infrastructure.
181 Labor recognises that human factors including the lives and economic welfare of workers
and communities must be taken into account when developing strategies to deal with climate change.
182 Labor recognises that the political processes alongside scientific and economic solutions are
key parts of the solution to climate change.
183 Labor will take broad and comprehensive scientific and economic advice while engaging the
broader community on actions to tackle climate change.
184 Labor will set greenhouse gas emissions targets including a reduction of 60 percent of 1990
levels by 2050.
185 Labor will either establish an emissions trading scheme or participate in an established
federal or global trading scheme.
36
186 Labor will investigate means of encouraging the installation of photovoltaic power sources in
businesses and households.
187 Labor will aim for the Tasmanian Government to eventually become carbon neutral through
initiatives such as:
Accurate reporting of government agencies carbon footprints; Greenhouse friendly procurement policies; The establishment of a green vehicle fleet; Energy efficient government buildings; and A carbon offset scheme for government emissions-producing activities such as government air travel.
Pollution control
188 Labor recognises that the quality of the work environment of Tasmania has been neglected
to the point that many working people are exposed to hazardous environmental contaminants with little or no regulation or monitoring.
189 Labor recognises that polluting emissions include gaseous, liquid, solid and particulate
matter, and noise, and all of these are capable of presenting hazards to the environment and to the human population.
190 Labor will work with the Australian and other state governments and relevant international
bodies to ensure the development of the highest possible, economically feasible standards of control of emissions of primary and secondary industries, transportation systems and human waste management systems.
191 Labor will implement state of the art emission controls on State Government vehicles and
thermal power generation systems.
192 Labor will establish limits on industrial emissions to curtail their impact on the human
population and the environment.
193 Labor will encourage and assist operators that are making a reasonable and genuine effort
to keep their emissions below permissible limits.
194 Labor will ensure that penalties for operators that refuse to comply with their pollution control
obligations are severe enough to have a deterrent effect.
Nuclear hazards
195 Labor believes that the dangers posed to all humanity by radioactive decay and especially
by nuclear fission and fusion are such as to make it wise for governments and political parties to proceed in a highly conservative manner.
196 Labor believes that we live in a nuclear age where the benefits of nuclear energy should be
investigated and the hazards and pitfalls of nuclear energy fully understood.
37
197 Labor believes that the full socio-economic costs, risks and benefits of nuclear technology
should be determined.
Nuclear waste
198 Labor believes nuclear waste is an obvious by-product of the nuclear age and should only
be stored in Tasmania in sites where it can have no impact on ground, water and air.
199 Labor will fully co-operate with the Commonwealth in the development of national
procedures and standards to categorise and monitor the generation, storage, transport, usage and disposal of nuclear materials in both industry and medicine.
200 Labor will ensure that these procedures and standards are regularly reviewed in line with
worlds best practices to ensure adequate protection for workers, members of the public and the environment.
201 Labor will ensure there are information and advisory services on potential environmental
contaminations, particularly in the workplace.
202 Labor will minimise the importation of hazardous wastes into the State.
Nuclear warship visits

203 Labor will educate the public as to the risk posed by visiting nuclear powered and/or armed
vessels.
204 Labor will make the Nuclear Powered Warship Safety Plan publicly available to facilitate
public discussion on warship visits.
205 Labor will require nuclear powered and/or armed warships entering Tasmanian harbours to
prepare an environmental impact statement in line with Labors commitment to environment impact assessment legislation.
206 Labor will endorse a policy allowing nuclear powered ship visits on the proviso that
appropriate security officers of the Tasmanian Government are told how the reactors work and how the safety systems work so that an assessment can be made on the safety of the ship in our ports.
207 Labor will not allow nuclear-armed warships to enter Tasmanian waters and harbours.
38
Chapter 5: Government and infrastructure

Government
1 2
Labor believes that every citizen should have a stake in the political process and that political parties need to be broadly representative. Labor believes that strategic leadership is required to plan for and achieve positive outcomes in the key policy areas that underpin the continuation of democratic government in Tasmania and give effect to a vision for the future of the State which is in accordance with the principles outlined in this document. Labor believes that Tasmanians have the right to expect Members of Parliament to behave with integrity. Labor believes that being a party committed to social reform, it is a primary responsibility of the ALP to provide a clear vision for electoral reform within the Tasmanian system of Government. Labor believes that the decisions and actions of Government must be relevant, transparent and accountable. Labor recognises strategic leadership is learned and the provision of ongoing leadership training is required for members of the Parliamentary Labor Party (PLP). Labor recognises that integrity can be encouraged by having mechanisms with which to handle inappropriate behaviours within the PLP. Labor recognises the Tasmanian system of Government is in need of democratic reform including the reform of the Legislative Council and the creation of a written Tasmanian Constitution. Labor recognises reform of the Legislative Council will need to be undertaken in consultation with the Tasmanian public and in particular it needs to better engage Tasmanians in the democratic process. Two possible ways forward are:
3 4
5 6 7 8
10
To provide for half the Legislative Council retire for re-election at a state-wide ballot, and the other half to retire for re-election at the end of that term; or Provide for Legislative Council elections to be held in conjunction with the House of Assembly and the retention of local representation.
Labor recognises the uncertainty of election times at the State and National level has, since Federation, produced a very high number of elections, which detracts from stability of Government. Labor recognises that quality governance is achieved when there is a logical articulation between State and local government. Labor recognises the relevance of Government policy is reliant on adequate community consultation. Labor recognises transparency and accountability in Government processes is assured by having a high quality State Service.
11 12 13
39
14 15 16 17
Labor recognises there must be a clear link between Government processes and decisions made at State ALP Conferences. Labor will ensure compulsory voting and registration continues in Tasmania. Labor will provide ongoing leadership training and support for all members of the PLP. Labor will take steps to ensure the integrity of Parliament and Government by establishing an Independent Ethics Commission to encourage ethical conversations to become a regular part of Tasmanian life. Labor believed the Independent Ethics Commission should also have investigative powers where corruption is alleged, but should adopt a proactive, positive approach to ethics and be supported by an Ethics Commissioner. Labor will work in partnership with the Tasmanian public to ensure that effective Parliamentary Reformi is achieved and provides a Tasmanian Parliament which best serves this State. This might include a model of fixed term elections at the State level and, if it does, Labor will lobby for such a model at the National level and for all other states and territories. Labor will ensure that a written Tasmanian Constitution is developed which delineates:
18
19
20 21
That the source of Government authority is the consent of the people; The responsibilities of the legislature, executive and judiciary; The relationship between those parts of Government; A suitable mechanism via which to work in partnership with the Tasmanian public to enable the amendment of the Constitution; and A democratic republican government;
ii
Labor will encourage the amalgamation of local councils where relevant and ensure that local government is based on the principles of democracy.iii Labor will ensure that both the Government and the State Service engage in adequate community consultation to ensure that public policies and their implementation are relevant to the needs of both the public and the overall wellbeing of the State. Labor will ensure that the Government is supported by a high quality State Service. Labor will ensure that resolutions which are passed at State ALP Conference result in feedback to the relevant Platform Committee within six months from the relevant Minister and Departmentiv as to either how the resolution will be put into effect or why the resolution cannot be progressed at that time.
22 23
State Services
24 25
Labor believes that having an impartial, dynamic State Service requires leadership within both the State Government and the State Service. Labor believes leadership within the State Service must be of a high standard and based upon principles of integrity including:
Dedication to the provision of evidence-based, expert advice;
40
26 27
A dedication to promoting a culture of professionalism and dynamism in the provision of services to the people of Tasmania; and A commitment to the principles within the State Service Act, 2000.
Labor believes in an engaged and valued State Service is imperative to ensure the delivery of public policy and State services. Labor believes in a commitment to accountability and performance review at both service and individual level is necessary if the State Service is to be an effective instrument in delivering the Governments policies. Labor recognises good leadership is learned and must be:
28
Demonstrated and modelled by the PLP through their adherence to the values to which they pledge; Ensured by the provision of ongoing leadership and management training for State Service employees from the level of agency secretaries and statutory office holders through to all relevant levels of the State Service; and Harnessed from both State Service employees and the Tasmanian public through the effective gathering, assessment and implementation of good ideas in the spirit of leadership which acknowledges that leadership need not always be hierarchical, but can be collaborative.
29 30
Labor recognises engaged and empowered State Service employees are more productive and flexible. Labor recognises the empowerment of both the State Service Commissioner and the Auditor General is required to provide comment in regard to the performance and relevance of State Service agencies. Labor will ensure that ongoing leadership and management training is provided for members of the State Service including agency secretaries, statutory office holders and all relevant levels of the State Service. Labor will ensure that Good Ideas Systems are employed across the State Service to both harness and value the imagination, good will and dedication of employees in this sector. Labor will periodically review the powers of the State Service Commissioner and the Auditor General in regard to their ability to evaluate and make recommendations about the performance of State Service agencies and employees. This might include the introduction of an efficiency and management auditor as well as an accounting auditor, as required.
31
32 33
Economy
34
Labor believes that as a social democratic party there should be sufficient government regulation of the economy, including but not limited to appropriate State government budgetary measures, which will ensure the stability of the economy to prevent both recession and hyperinflation. Labor believes that trade unions, industry, the public sector, government and the Tasmanian community all play significant roles in regional development.
35
41
36 37 38 39 40 41
Labor believes that a vibrant economy should exhibit a balance of positive fiscal, environmental and social outcomes. Labor believes increasing productivity is the best guarantor of balanced economic prosperity leading to high employment, good quality jobs and a lively community. Labor believes Tasmania has the human and physical resources to build a vibrant regional economy providing high levels of economic prosperity and social wellbeing. Labor recognises that thriving industry and economic stability/growth are best achieved through having measures to ensure a vibrant, balanced economy in which a diverse community can flourish along with social justice. Labor recognises that Tasmanias economic position has changed with globalisation and the end of traditional economic activity such as hydro-industrialisation. Labor recognises that Tasmania Together provides a balanced set of measures and targets across a range of social, economic and environmental outcomes, the evaluation of which, and use of that analysis in strategic planning will benefit the Tasmanian community. Labor recognises that to be competitive and effective in increasing living standards in the twenty first century Tasmanias economic activity will need to be increasingly innovative and diversified. Labor recognises that existing industries need to be encouraged and supported to innovate. And that new industries need to be developed. Labor will create a more competitive business environment by:
42
43 44
45
Measuring and addressing cost aspects impacting on competition; Promoting business enterprise development and innovation; Capitalising on Tasmanias natural environment and overall branding; Eliminating unnecessary regulation; Building training systems which provide skilled workers with the capacity to gain wellpaid employment with increased job satisfaction;v Promoting the capacity to engage in fair business practicesvi; Promoting employment practices which enhance the recruitment and retention of a productive workforce; and Promoting a culture of accountability whereby the evaluation of major infrastructure projects is encouraged.
Labor will ensure that the business community understands that Tasmania is a place which values fiscal, environmental and social capital as well as building a unique sense of community. Labor will evaluate, analyse and use the analysis of Tasmania Together outcome measures in overall strategic planning regarding the Tasmanian economy. Labor will maximise the direct and indirect opportunities arising from infrastructure projects and avoid decisions which privatise public instruments without there being a sound, long term benefit across to the broad Tasmanian economy, including fiscal, employment, tourism, social and environmental considerations.vii
46 47
42
48
Labor will not support the privatisation of any State Owned Company or business unless there are great demonstrable benefits to the people of Tasmania and will especially oppose the privatisation of Tasmanias power network, or any part thereof and in particular is opposed to the sale of the companies know as Hydro, Transend Network and Aurora Energy.viii Labor will genuinely work in partnership with employers, unions, local government and the broader community.
49
Financial Strategy
50
Labor believes sound financial strategy promotes industry development, employment opportunities and the achievement of an economy which can support positive outcomes relating to social justice. Labor believes that Government agencies should maximise service provision through the deployment of sound whole-of-Government financial strategy. Labor believes sound financial management is built upon the following principles:
51 52
53 54 55 56
Raising adequate income to meet recurrent expenditure; Strong discipline to ensure that unsustainable deficits do not occur; and Borrowing funds for appropriate capital expenditure for the long term benefit of the Tasmanian community (for example, hospitals, roads and ports).
Labor recognises irresponsible accumulation of government debt causes a decline in government services and an inability to stimulate economic growth. Labor recognises that whole-of-Government financial strategy enables government agencies to maximise service provision and minimise waste.ix Labor will ensure that the Government delivers a financial plan committed to a sustainable level of debt. Labor will enable improved government services through the provision of improved whole-ofGovernment strategies such as well designed accounting systems, information management systems and communication technologies able to be used across all Government agencies. Labor will encourage sustainable, appropriate investment in Tasmania which aligns with the branding of Tasmania in vital industries such as Tourism and the food industry. Labor will allow additional expenditure for industry development and sustainable infrastructure (see other relevant platforms). Labor will deliver balanced budgets.
57 58 59
43
Innovation Strategy
60 61
Labor Believes innovation in existing and new industries is the key to economic prosperity, high employment and quality jobs. Labor recognises Tasmanian industries and workers have a proud record of innovation AND Government support for innovation in Australia has been historically weak. Continued innovation is only possible with support from all levels of government. Labor will develop an innovation strategy based on the best available advice.
62
Industrial Relations
63
Labor believes the inherent imbalance between workers and employers necessitates the existence of a sound industrial relations system to encourage good management principles to be implemented by employers and to protect the security of workers employment, wages, working conditions and entitlements. Labor believes workers must be able to take a collective approach in negotiating their working conditions in order to achieve fair outcomes. Labor believes it is important that the State system aligns with the Federal system where possible (and relevant) to achieve consistency across jurisdictions. Labor believes negotiations should be based on co-operation and consultation between unions, employees, and employers; and underpinned by a legislative framework that protects the rights of all parties and meets Australias obligations under the International Labour Organisation (ILO) convention. Labor recognises that an effective and balanced industrial relations system is central to:
64 65 66
67
68 69 70
The wellbeing of the people of Tasmania; The maintenance of a just society; and The achievement of a vibrant economy.
Labor recognises that work practices should ensure that workers are able to meet their responsibilities regarding home, family and community life. Labor recognises a strong and independent industrial commission and a strong and vibrant union movement are vital to the fair and proper functioning of the industrial relations system. Labor will refer to the Australian Government the balance of private sector industrial relations in Tasmania to provide certainty for employers and access to modern awards by employees. Labor will maintain the Tasmanian Industrial Commission as an independent statutory body covering public sector employment. Labor will ensure the provision of online access to awards and formal decisions of both the Tasmanian Industrial Commission in regard to State Service matters and Fair Work Australia in regard to the private sector.
71 72
44
73 74 75 76
Labor will review issues and develop protocols on workplace privacy eg. e-mail and workplace surveillance, and drug and other testing. Labor will ensure that the right of unions to enter workplaces to recruit and communicate with members is protected by appropriate legislation. Labor will encourage education and training about and for unions. Labor will pursue changes to provide for the resolution of industrial disputes by conciliation and, if necessary, by arbitration in a prompt and fair manner with a minimum of legal technicality. Labor will provide that the Tasmanian Industrial Relations Commission has the power to declare void any unfair, harsh or unconscionable employment and ensure that all employee entitlements are maintained in the event of transmission of business. Labor will pursue legislative changes to provide for interest at the same rate as applies to Supreme Court judgements to be awarded to employees in the event of underpayment of wages or other benefits. Labor will ensure that unions pursuing their legitimate industrial and social interests are not subject to civil actions for breach of contract, conspiracy, intimidation or unlawful interference. Labor will require employers who provide services to government to observe good industrial relations practices.
77
78
79
80
Employment
81 82 83 84
Labor believes security of employment is fundamental to individual, family and community stability. Labor believes fair wages and conditions are important to attract and retain a skilled workforce in Tasmania. Labor believes in the legitimate role of trade unions and employer organisations. Labor believes in the right of workers to:
85 86 87
Organise; Take action on behalf of their members, and workers generally; Bargain collectively for fair working conditions; and Not be discriminated against in the workplace.
Labor recognises a system of comprehensive, contemporary and relevant awards is central to the security of workers, their wages and working conditions. Labor recognises the need for portable employee entitlements to ensure that no Tasmanian workers lose employment related entitlements. Labor recognises there is continuing discrimination in the workplace against women, young people, workers from non-English speaking backgrounds and workers with disabilities.
45
88 89 90 91
Labor recognises the importance of the apprenticeship system and other forms of workplace training. Labor recognises the right of workers to withdraw their labour is a fundamental principle of the Labor Party. Labor will ensure that registered Industrial agreements are adhered to and apply sufficient resources to achieve adherence within both the Tasmanian and Federal systems. Labor will prepare a discussion paper for the 2010 State Conference on the need for incentives to be developed and adopted by the Tasmanian Government in order to attract x and retain workers within Tasmania. Labor will encourage long term employment and discourage the casualisation of the workforce. Labor will amend legislation and policy to enable the portability of superannuation; ensure xi the adequacy and portability of long service leave provisions ; and ensure the portability of other employment benefits. Labor will ensure that industrial relations legislation and the award system is designed to xii ensure that workplace discrimination is eliminated. Labor will ensure that Fair Work Australia has mechanisms to ensure the that men and women doing work of equal or comparable work receive equal remuneration and opportunities because it will cover the private sector from 1 Jan 2010; and ensure that the Tasmanian Industrial Commission has the power to provide the same outcomes for the Tasmanian public sector.xiii Labor will encourage and implement industrial democracy and genuine worker participation schemes; Labor will widen the definition of employee in legislation to embrace as many workers as possible to prevent corporations from exploiting workers (such as owner-drivers in the transport industry) by designating them as sub-contractors. Labor will encourage Government agencies to provide entry points for the employment of young people and disadvantaged or displaced persons.
92 93
94 95
96 97
98
Unemployment
99
Labor believes that compulsory retrenchment must be a matter of last resort. Whenever possible, terminations of employment through redundancy should be carried out on a voluntary basis. transmission of business or in cases of company insolvency or restructuring.
100 Labor believes workers entitlements should be protected in cases where there is a 101 Labor recognises all workers have the right to challenge harsh and unjust dismissal through
either the Tasmanian Industrial Commission or the Australian Industrial Relations Commission. The test of fairness in worker-related dismissals should include an examination
46
of the procedure followed by the employer and also an examination of the validity of the reason for dismissal.
102 Labor will ensure that the legal right of unions to access the workplace is recognised by
employers so that employees have access to advice, information and representation to protect and advance their workplace interests and organise collectively.
103 Labor will ensure that workers are not denied access to entitlements or legal protection
through arrangements which classify them as sub-contractors, or which treat them as casuals when in reality they have on-going employment.
104 Labor will pursue changes to allow costs to be awarded against employers in unfair
termination proceedings where it is found there is no valid reason for termination.
105 Labor will ensure that termination of employment must be for a valid reason as provided for
in the terms of the relevant ILO convention.
Occupational heath and safety

106 Labor believes every worker has the absolute right to go to work and return home xiv
uninjured.
107 Labor believes that injured workers should not be disadvantaged financially, nor lose
conditions of employment while recovering from a workplace injury.
108 Labor believes that the Tasmanian Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act should be
focused on rehabilitation and return to work.
109 Labor recognises the impact workplace injuries have on individual workers and their
families.
110 Labor recognises the benefit of early treatment of injured workers for the best recovery
outcomes.
111 Labor recognises that the best outcomes for workers will be achieved through a
collaborative approach between the injured worker, their employer, insurance provider and allied and other health support required to promote recovery and return to work.
112 Labor recognises that an injury to a worker causes an economic loss to society, being the
cost of the medical treatment to the worker and the loss of productivity because the worker is incapacitated. Therefore there should be full compensation and failure to provide such proper compensation shifts the loss from the consumer to the worker and the taxpayer.
113 Labor will ensure that workplaces are safe.xv 114 Labor will ensure that injured workers wages and conditions are maintained at pre-injury
levels while in receipt of benefits.
115 Labor will create a Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Board similar to the Motor
Accidents Insurance Board (MAIB) to collect from employers the funds necessary to provide for the proper rehabilitation and compensation of workers.
47
116 Labor will introduce a return to work program that all parties understand and will participate
in, to facilitate a return to work in consultation with the workers treating doctor.
117 Labor will ensure that rehabilitation providers are independent and will act in consultation
with the injured workers treating doctor, the injured worker and the employer in the provision of any rehabilitation program.
118 Labor will ensure that workers who are injured as a result of the negligence of the employer
have the right of access to common law.
119 Labor will amend the Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act by providing that the
employer and insurer must prove that a partially incapacitated worker can obtain employment and the amount the worker can earn in any employment before the weekly payments of that worker can be reviewed.xvi
120 Labor will ensure that injured workers receive adequate compensation for any permanent
disability and also ensure the workers receive adequate medical treatment.
121 Labor will introduce Industrial Manslaughter legislation, which will provide criminal charges xvii
when workers are killed or maimed as a result of a work related injury.
122 Labor will amend the Workplace Health and Safety Regulations to confer upon union
officials the right to enter premises where there are employed persons eligible to join their union, during working hours, to check on Occupational Health and Safety conditions.
Law and justice

123 Labor believes in human rights including:xviii Freedom of religion including the right not to have any religious beliefs and including
the freedom of opinion and expression (laws providing for the recovery of damages or the costs of law enforcement from persons involved in a lawful, political protest will be considered to be a restriction on the freedom of speech);
Freedom from arrest, search or seizure of property except upon warrant issued by a judicial officer upon cause then being shown; and except when a police officer finds a crime being committed or has reason to believe a crime is imminent; The right to a speedy public and impartial trial including the right for trial by jury for serious crimes; The right to vote, including legislation to ensure that each vote has equal value as far as practicable; Freedom from slavery or any form of involuntary servitude; Freedom from discrimination; Freedom of assembly; Freedom of association including the right to join trade unions and the right of trade unions to enter any workplace to advise members of their right to join trade unions; Freedom from torture or cruelty and inhumane or degrading treatment or punishment; The right to receive an education; The right to the best practicable medical care; and
48
Freedom from poverty including the right to social security and the right to work free from obstruction or harassment.
124 Labor believes in the establishment of an Independent Ethics Commission. 125 Labor believes in early intervention with children, young people and their families where
there has been or there is the potential for involvement in the criminal justice system.
126 Labor believes the practice of our criminal system should reflect the presumption of
innocence; and provide that a person who has been arrested has the right to apply to a judicial officer for bail.
127 Labor believes Tasmanians are entitled to live in safety, 128 Labor believes access to justice can only be realised if legal services are: Readily available to all Tasmanians; and Affordable, simple, fair and encourage speedy dispute resolution by conciliation (where
possible).
129 Labor believes integrity in the gathering of confessional material and other evidence is
paramount for everybody concerned and maintains the good standing in which the Tasmanian community views our police.
130 Labor believes restorative justice builds a sense of community spirit and responsibility in the
offender and aims to restore the victim and the community to their pre-offence state of security.
131 Labor believes victims are entitled to dignity and respect. 132 Labor believes the integrity of Magistrates and the Judiciary must be maintained rather than
a system of mandatory minimum penalties.
133 Labor believes in a transparent process for appointing judicial officers. 134 Labor believes prisoners are entitled to dignity and respect. 135 Labor believes where there are issues relating to substance abuse, mental health and/or a
lack of literacy, the Court will consider Court-mandated drug diversion; ensure mental health treatment during incarceration; and provide literacy programs during the term of incarceration.xix Labor believes alcohol and/or substance-fuelled driving offences must be addressed in a manner which results in a change in community acceptance of such offences. licensed premises must be addressed in a way which results in a change in community acceptance of such offences.
136
137 Labor believes alcohol and/or substance-fuelled violent behaviour, particularly in and around
138 Labor recognises that it is imperative that action be taken to preserve human rights; whilst
recognising that everyone has duties to the community and the exercise of a persons rights and freedoms shall be subject only to such limitations as determined by law solely for the purpose of securing due recognition and respect for the rights and freedom of others after meeting the just requirements of morality, public order and general welfare in a democratic society.
49
139 Labor recognises the full range of sentencing options need to be implemented to reduce
reliance on the use of imprisonment as a sentencing option particularly in view of the increase in the prison population and that rehabilitation needs to be a primary consideration of the prison system while recognising that if an offender represents an ongoing danger to the person or property of members of the community then imprisonment is the most appropriate option.
140 Labor recognises a primary aim of any laws or rules relating to debt recovery should be the
reduction of the rate of default and the rehabilitation of the debtor.
141 Labor recognises there is no simple causal connection between the severity of punishment
and the incidence of criminal activity. Preventing crime involves a whole of Government approach to improve access to education and training, health and wellbeing services, early support for young families, as well as dealing with the root causes of poverty, alienation and inequality in any society.
142 Labor will introduce into the House of Assembly and support the passage of a legislated
Charter of Human Rights and provide that the Tasmanian Government and all organisations controlled or influenced by it shall pay due respect to human rights and will not abrogate human rights but will take all reasonable steps to enhance human rights. The Charter of Human Rights legislation will prevail over all existing or future legislation unless such legislation expressly abrogates those rights.
143 Labor will continue to support a properly funded Human Rights and Equal Opportunity
Commission as an independent body advising on, and enquiring into the protection and advancement of human rights. Labor will conduct an ongoing education campaign about the importance of human rights. Labor will also review the Anti-discrimination Act 1998 and implement changes to ensure that bullying in the workplace is prohibited.
144 Labor recognises introduce legislation to adequately protect whistle blowers. 145 Labor recognises maintain the principles of same sex relationship recognition which are
enshrined in the Relationships Act 2003.
146 Labor recognises ensure that criminal laws are relevant to contemporary community
standards of behaviour, including the following:
Developing and implementing a drug harm minimisation strategy for Tasmania; Ensuring those who are dependent on drugs and their families have access to appropriate rehabilitation treatment, education and counselling programs; and Ensuring that prisoners who are dependent on drugs have access to rehabilitation treatment, education and counselling programs.
147 Labor will promote the safety of Tasmanians by: Conducting research into innovative solutions to dealing with intergenerational antisocial behaviour;
Ensuring the use of appropriate video technology such as the video-conferencing network in courts to the benefit of those applicants of restraint orders in the more remote areas of Tasmania; and video surveillance during the transport of either prisoners or young people requiring detention at Ashley Youth Detention Centre;
50
Implementing and evaluating a whole of government strategy to deal with family violence, including a review of the Family Violence Act 2004 to ensure that it is effective in protecting families, young people and children; and Ensuring the public faith is maintained in the police force by maintaining an effective system to investigate and resolve complaints against the police; and Complying with the decision by the Council of Australian Governments that each jurisdiction will have adequate screening of people working with children in ether a paid or voluntary capacity.
148 Labor will ensure that Legal Aid is available to Tasmanians including Legal Aid for civil
cases as far as financially practicable and until there has been an adequate provision of Legal Aid to encourage pro-bono fee arrangements. Labor will also ensure transparency, accountability and fair dealings between members of the legal profession and their clients.
149 Labor will develop a system of reforms to: Review sentencing options; Examine ways to reduce reliance on the use of imprisonment; Improve methods of detecting and re-listing matters regarding breaches of suspended
sentences and court orders;
Implement a strategy to educate and enable community members and victims of crime to participate in the development of sentencing policy; Provide appropriate treatment, counselling and compensation to victims of crime who suffer personal injury including psychological injury; Improve rehabilitation and reduce recidivism; Initiate programs to divert persons convicted of offences and limit the reliance upon the prison system and focus on the offenders rehabilitation and restoration to the Tasmanian community; and Provide that prisoners be given the right to vote where they have been sentenced to five years or less or have less than five years of their sentence remaining to be served.
150 Labor will assess the suitability of the government playing a greater role in ensuring that
debtors are encouraged and assisted to take responsibility for the management of their own financial affairs.
151 Labor will take all reasonable steps to ensure that everybody feels safe and secure both in
their home and in public places in Tasmania.
152 Labor will encourage a feeling of security including restraining sensational or dishonest
reporting of crime.
153 Labor will recognise that people have a right to privacy against inappropriate media
intrusion.
154 Labor will ensure that information-sharing and privacy legislation adequately protects the
privacy of Tasmanians.
Tourism
51
155 Labor believes tourism is a highly valuable industry that affects the economic and social
wellbeing of the State contributing approximately five per cent to Gross State Product and providing directly and indirectly over 25 000 jobs.xx
156 Labor believes that a strategic, joined-up, State-wide approach to Tasmanian tourism is
needed because the tourism industry benefits when there is consistency and congruence in planning across both the public and private sector.
157 Labor believes tourism encourages and supports new and improved infrastructure, services,
and experiences that appeal to both visitors and Tasmanians.
158 Labor believes tourism generates a positive view of the State, both locally, throughout
Australia and overseas.
159 Labor believes that, as an island, affordable air and sea access to Tasmania is a critical
element for the future growth and sustainability of the States tourism industry.
160 Labor believes Tasmania has a unique natural and cultural heritage image, and offers
potential for more visitor experiences that align with this image.
161 Labor believes the primary role of Government in tourism is to work in close partnership with
the tourism industry to ensure that:
Tasmania is promoted interstate and overseas as a holiday destination; Economically viable air and sea access is maintained to the State; Experiences being offered by the tourism industry match with the expectations of the visitors being attracted to the State; Visitors are satisfied with their Tasmanian holiday; and Ongoing investment is made in the development of new tourism infrastructure, services and experiences to support the future growth of tourism.
162 Labor recognises Tasmanian tourism will be influenced in coming years by global changes
taking place in the areas of technology, aviation, climate change, finance and consumer behaviour.
163 Labor recognises tourism offers future growth potential for Tasmania, underpinned by
interstate and overseas visitors.
164 Labor recognises tourism in Tasmania is highly dispersed and decentralised, which ensures
the economic and social benefits of tourism are spread throughout the State and in our regional communities.
165 Labor recognises tourism and hospitality is a labour intensive industry, requiring
appropriately skilled human resources and high levels of personal engagement with visitors to deliver a positive experience.
166 Labor recognises there is a need to further develop a cross-sectoral State-wide tourism
framework and strategic policies that will maximise the integration of the diversity of tourist experiences offered.
167 Labor recognises that capitalising on the natural and cultural tourism potential of Tasmania
requires quality infrastructure and extensive capital investment.
52
168 Labor recognises a strong and competitive aviation industry is of major importance to this
State.
169 Labor recognises tourism marketing must be undertaken jointly with the tourism industry to
ensure maximum effect and greater benefits to the State and tourism industry.
170 Labor will work in partnership with the tourism industry to review, maintain and implement
Tourism 21 the joint State Government / Tourism Industry Strategic Business Plan for future tourism growth in Tasmania.
171 Labor will facilitate a State-wide, whole of government approach to tourism by working with
relevant peak and regional bodies to:
Ensure there is adequate infrastructure to enable our natural and cultural heritage assets to underpin the visitor experience; Invest in appropriate technology and other innovations to support the tourism industry; Ensure the provision of ongoing training for the industry; Ensure broad community and industry involvement in the Tasmania brand concept ; and Collect and analyse consumer feedback, and share this knowledge with the local tourism industry.
xxi
172 Labor will Invest in well-researched, targeted and effective promotional programs that raise
awareness and stimulate demand for Tasmanian holidays amongst the target markets, including:
Using cooperative marketing and combining resources with the tourism industry to build even stronger and more effective programs; Marketing Tasmania locally, domestically and internationally as a dynamic, diverse and high quality destination providing inspirational visitor experiences; and Adopting a flexible approach to responding to new market opportunities and changes in the global and domestic environment.
173 Labor will work closely with the airlines and TT Line to stimulate travel and encourage
improved services and capacity for people to visit Tasmania when it is needed.
53
Chapter 6: Culture and Heritage Platform Committee

Aboriginal affairs
1 2
Labor believes the Tasmanian Aboriginal community has a right to self-determination within the broader Tasmanian community, as a people with a distinct cultural heritage. Labor recognises reconciliation between Tasmanian Aboriginal people and non-Aboriginal Tasmanians requires not just recognition of Tasmanian history but commitment to the importance of Aboriginal cultural identity in contemporary Tasmanian society. Labor recognises the Tasmanian Aboriginal people have survived. Labor recognises the importance of the Island communities, and their distinct heritage, aspirations, and rights. Labor recognises education and health policies need to specifically address and improve Aboriginal community outcomes. Labor recognises there is a significant reservoir of good will and support for reconciliation in the Tasmanian community. Labor recognises that the Tasmanian Aboriginal people are the custodians and primary source of information about their heritage. Labor recognises that Tasmanias original inhabitants have had a history and culture thousands of years older than European settlement. Labor recognises the close cultural connection that Aboriginal Tasmanians have with their land. Labor will ensure Tasmanian Aborigines exercise and enjoy the same rights and services to which all Tasmanians are entitled as well as a recognition of their distinct cultural identity. Labor will strengthen the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage. Labor will work in partnership with Aboriginal organisations that work for self determination, self help and self reliance. Labor will ensure Tasmanian Aborigines are represented on relevant authorities and consulted in government policy formulation and service delivery, with particular emphasis on improving Aboriginal education and health outcomes. Labor will transfer to the Aboriginal community Crown Land identified as being of significant economic, spiritual, cultural or historical importance to the Aboriginal community. Labor will support Aboriginal organisations in the management of land and in the development of employment and community projects.
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15
54
16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
Labor will integrate Aboriginal perspectives, traditional cultural practice and expertise into the management and use of natural resources. Labor will work to develop in the Tasmanian community an understanding and appreciation of contemporary Aboriginal culture and heritage. Labor will support the development of cultural tourism. Labor will investigate the provision of programs including arts administration and promotion for Aboriginal artists. Labor will ensure that Aboriginal people are involved in the protection, identification and management of their own heritage. Labor will appropriately recognise Aboriginal cultural rights. Labor will require the preservation of Aboriginal heritage on both public and private land. Labor will provide incentives to private landowners to protect and preserve Aboriginal heritage. Labor will support the right of Aboriginal people to manage native title land according to their own traditions and customs and to control access to their land. Labor will consult with indigenous organisations over interpretation issues and encourage the provision, where relevant, of alternative interpretations to those designed by nonAboriginal Tasmanians.
Art and heritage

26 27 28 29
Labor believes the Arts and Heritage are important to the vibrant, diverse cultural life of all communities in Tasmania and are an integral part of Tasmanias sense of identity. Labor believes that Tasmanias built and cultural heritage provide a vital insight into Tasmanias history. Labor believes that Aboriginal, historical and ongoing cultural values are important in land management planning. Labor believes that Tasmanias extensive built heritage be it structures or changes to the landscape should be preserved in a way that maintains examples of all built environment stages of development. Labor recognises the Arts are a major and growing source of employment for Tasmanians, but that employment in the Arts can be high risk and low income. Labor recognises the Arts provide important opportunities for cultural expression in all regions of the state, reflecting the diversity of the Tasmanian experience. Labor recognises the Arts can support regional and community development.
30 31 32
55
33 34 35 36 37 38
Labor recognises the importance of raising the economic and professional status of artists. Labor recognises that museums and libraries are important branches of the arts. Labor recognises the importance of the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) being the custodian of the State collection. Labor recognises the skilful way that historic heritage can be altered by using adaptive reuse techniques. Labor recognises that the abundance of historical buildings, sites and artefacts in Tasmania make their preservation a significant fiscal challenge. Labor will ensure all sectors of the community are able to participate in a range of Arts experiences, including performing arts, visual arts, craft and design, literature and film, television and multimedia. Labor will, through Arts Tasmania and its peer assessment panel system:
39
40
Identify and develop strategies for specific state based areas of need; and Provide support to key cultural institutions.
Labor will promote national and international understanding and recognition of the Arts in Tasmania, nurture Tasmanian community pride in Tasmanian artists and collect, record, document and display their work. Labor will encourage Arts and crafts industry development and the beneficial application of the Arts to industry, tourism and community life, including recreation and education. Labor will promote artistic research development and appreciation within education and increase opportunities for Arts training including traineeships. Labor will maximise job opportunities and career paths in the Arts and arts-related service sector. Labor will in collaboration with Federal and local Government, provide appropriate facilities for presentation of the arts and assistance for the development, conservation and management of art collections state-wide. Labor will utilise local arts and crafts in government facilities and as gifts, awards and presentations wherever possible. Labor will encourage commissioning, development and performance of original work by Tasmanian performing artists and companies. Labor will encourage government agencies to utilise local creative development, crewing, shooting and post-production. Labor will encourage local Government to develop policy and funding strategies for the Arts. Labor will protect Tasmania's historic wrecks and encourage and support owners to preserve and maintain sites of historic cultural significance.
41 42 43 44
45 46 47 48 49
56
50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61
Labor will maintain the register of places of cultural significance to Tasmania and promote community appreciation of them. Labor will promote cultural heritage to tourists and in Tasmanias education curriculum. Labor will continue to support the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. Labor will support and promote nationally, Tasmanian creative artists. Labor will provide on-going support for the Ten days On the Island Festival. Labor will ensure that the Tasmanian Museum and Art gallery actively supports, collects and exhibits the work of Tasmanian artists. Labor will engage local communities and user groups in the management of reserves with which they have a particular connection. Labor will work with primary industries to ensure heritage sites are protected and not disturbed. Labor will explore innovative means of raising funds for the preservation of built heritage. Labor will make Tasmanias built and cultural heritage available for research purposes. Labor will provide incentives to local government to encourage the development of local history societies, heritage trails, and the management of cultural heritage resource. Labor will ensure that the interpretation of historic sites and artefacts takes due notice of the rights of people with disabilities.
Ethnic affairs and multiculturalism

62 63
Labor believes Tasmania is enriched by cultural diversity and an inclusive society treats all of its members with compassion and respect. Labor recognises family, skilled, business and humanitarian migration provide opportunities to further enrich Tasmanias community and contribute to Tasmanias economic development. Labor recognises many Tasmanians of a non-English speaking background need translator and interpreter services to access Government services. Labor recognises Tasmanians who belong to migrant or ethnic communities have equal rights which require protection, in particular in the case of recent arrivals unfamiliar with Australian norms and expectations. Labor recognises aged Tasmanians of a non-English speaking background can lose English language proficiency and become isolated from society and the provision of government social services.
64 65
66
57
67
Labor recognises some processes for recognising overseas professional and trade qualifications, often by default, have disadvantaged many Tasmanians of a non-English speaking background. Labor recognises Tasmanias ethnic communities remain under-represented on Government boards, committees, councils, and authorities. Labor recognises skilled and humanitarian migrants contribute to Tasmanias economic, social, cultural and political development.
68 69
70 71 72 73
Labor will actively promote Tasmania as a place for settlement, to receive an increased share of migrants within the Federal Governments immigration program. Labor will provide support for new and emerging communities to improve their settlement experiences. Labor will ensure equal rights and access for all Tasmanians to Government services, including through access to interpreter and translator services. Labor will in co-operation with non-government organisations, identify the community and health care needs of non-English speaking aged Tasmanians and develop and implement strategies that will resolve the social and health anxieties felt by many aged non-English speaking background people. Labor will work with professional and trade accreditation organisations, educational institutions, unions, employer groups, representatives of the non-English speaking community and the Federal Government, to accept appropriate overseas obtained qualifications. Labor will increase the representation of ethnic communities on Government boards, committees, councils and authorities. Labor will integrate multicultural experiences into the education curriculum and promote cultural diversity in the community through celebrations, events and festivals. Labor will foster strategies to involve people of non-English speaking backgrounds across a broad range of social, cultural, economic and political activities. Labor will encourage the development of historical/cultural tourism opportunities.
74
75 76 77 78
58
Chapter 7: Community, human and transport services

Principles
1 2
Labor believes the principle of social justice is a right and not a privilege. Labor believes the impetus for community development occurs whenever there is recognition of shared interest, by community in supporting the expansion of community based services. Labor believes an action plan for community development is integral to its approach to the community services sector. Labor believes in seeking maximum involvement of all sections of the community, especially clients, in the formation of policy, determination of need, administration of services and maintenance of standards, within that Action Plan. Labor recognises the priorities for economic and social advancement are complementary to each other. Labor recognises the future success of any economy is dependent upon securing an appropriate mix of social and economic policy. Labor recognises social programs and public investment schemes are seen as being a prerequisite to sustainable economic advancement. Labor recognises long term solutions to social problems can only be solved through the process of community development where there is a community of interest based around geographic locality, work, cultural or ethnic affinity, disability or a combination of these factors. Labor will make certain central government plays a leadership role in resourcing and empowering communities. Labor will initiate public investment schemes as a prerequisite to sustainable economic advancement. Labor will create mechanisms to bring about a more equitable distribution of social resources, by giving greatest priority to the redistribution of income, wealth and power. Labor will ensure solutions to local problems are best addressed by the communities involved themselves. Labor will provide an effective community education program to ensure that those most likely to be in need of assistance are aware of available community services. Labor will ensure better co-operation between government departments and further develop community based partnerships with agencies and their consumers.
3 4
5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14
59
15
Labor will ensure the impact of significant developments affecting a particular community or communities is assessed and that this involves social cost/benefit analyses and encourages full participation by local communities. Labor will develop Children and Family centres across the state, under the direction of the Minister, operating in conjunction with other government and voluntary bodies to guarantee that people receive prompt attention to their problems. Labor will support the development of a Social Inclusion Strategy for Tasmania that coordinates welfare services at various Government levels within a system where services are better planned and provided at a decentralised level consistent with effective administration. Labor will research the need for, and conduct an ongoing evaluation of the adequacy and efficiency of existing government programs. Labor will ensure that a comprehensive perspective of the needs of the State is obtained by having a Social Inclusion Commissioner to focus on the special needs of typical communities such as small rural communities, those in isolated areas, ethnic communities and other community groups.
16
17
18 19
Non-government agencies
20
Labor will continue to ensure the adequacy of funding for the community welfare sector with a view to ensuring that agencies have the appropriate financial and human resources to maintain, providing an appropriate level of indexation, and develop services and move the funding for all State Government funded community sector organisations to a triennial basis. Labor will continue to support neighbourhood houses to facilitate the development of a wide variety of activities within communities. Labor will establish and maintain regular contact with the various peak welfare groups representing the interests of community sector in Tasmania. Labor will establish bi-monthly briefings with the relevant Minister for peak community sector organisations.
21 22
23
Local government
24 25 26
Labor will seek local government reform through a cooperative and consultative approach with local councils in Tasmania. Labor will actively assist those councils that wish to amalgamate on a voluntary basis. Labor will develop and implement Partnership Agreements between the State Government and local councils, to cover such roles as community services provision, environmental responsibilities, the promotion of joint ventures, coordination of effort and informationsharing, financial management and service delivery. Labor will promote and support local government involvement in developing existing services such as accommodation, transport, employment or welfare officers and recreation officers.
27
60
28 29
Labor will, on a shared basis with local government authorities, fund the employment of community development officers. Labor will make available specific purpose grants to local government to employ persons to provide secretarial, administrative and material assistance to community groups.
Children
30
Labor will uphold the proclaimed United Nations Declaration of the Rights of the Child, the ten principles being the basis for the development of policy aimed at providing the highest possible standard of child care and welfare. Labor will ensure that children have the right of access to legal representation when required. Labor will continue to improve services for children at risk of abuse and continue to invest in services which provide this support with a view to ensuring an adequate level of service provision throughout the State. Labor will ensure that children requiring detention should be detained in an appropriate way which ensures their safety. Labor will investigate a wider and more appropriate range of accommodation and support options for young people who may otherwise need to be detained.
31 32
33 34
Childcare
35 36 37 38 39 40 41
Labor will ensure a fair distribution of child care facilities throughout the State. Labor will develop different forms of child care to match the various needs of children and parents. Labor will support neighbourhood child care services staffed by skilled workers in child care and with participation by people in the community. Labor will encourage all employers to provide child care facilities, including the State Service, either individually or in co-operation with other employers. Labor will support playgroups with parental participation. Labor will investigate night care facilities needs for shift workers and other people. Labor will provide home based and non-home based respite care for those in special need.
Alternative care
42
Labor will provide foster care for children across a range of options which might include providing private foster parents, approved non government organisations and other state Government services.
61
43 44 45 46 47
Labor will, where possible, ensure that children from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds are placed with families of similar origin. Labor will ensure adequate screening of prospective foster care parents is done to protect and promote the welfare of children. Labor will deliver appropriate counselling and education about the care of children by parents. Labor will provide a range of foster programs which provide short, medium and long term care. Labor will ensure a range of out of home and alternative care placement options are adequately provided and resourced to meet the range of physical and social needs of children in community and State care.
Early childhood services

48
Labor will implement a Childrens Services Review Committee, with membership including parents, skilled child care workers, teachers, Local Government and community organisations involved in the provision of early childhood services. Labor will ensure the Childrens Services Review Committee will have the responsibility for developing a five year planned program of early childhood services. Labor will make certain the plan includes:
49 50
A review of the aims and effectiveness of existing programs for children under school age and where necessary a reorganisation of those programs; The establishment and maintenance of proper standards of childcare; The development of multi-purpose services that fit into the present framework of neighbourhood and family services; and Locate early childhood services in each region, integrated with other community services, such as pre-school and community centres.
Family support
51 52 53 54
Labor will ensure that family support services provided by both government agencies and non government organisations are accessible to all Tasmanian families. Labor will continue to expand and improve family support services through the establishment of the Gateways and Integrated Family support services in areas of need. Labor will aim its programs to support families, as early as possible, to give families the best chance to remain viable, healthy and fulfilling environments for children. Labor will provide a diverse range of emergency housing and support services for those families which suffer temporary upheaval caused by family illness, crisis or domestic strife.
62
55
Labor will expand, make available and administer on a regional basis, programs providing family support and counselling services for individuals and families.
Positing ageing
56
Labor will appoint a Commissioner for the Aged who is specifically responsible for conducting regular evaluation of equity of access, service provisions and ensuring equity of outcomes. Labor will fully resource the Commissioner for the Aged to undertake the range of tasks required of the Office. Labor will ensure that the Commissioner:
57 58
59
Has direct access to the Minister and Heads of Agency; Leads a small policy unit which can receive complaints; Make policy recommendations to the Minister; and Establishes an Advisory Committee with representatives of interest groups involved with the aged.
Labor will, in collaboration with the Commonwealth Government develop regional plans for an equitable distribution of facilities and services to provide a comprehensive system of assessment, domiciliary care, rehabilitation and accommodation. Labor will rectify the disproportionate emphasis on nursing home care and the geographic over-concentration of services in particular regions. Labor will reform the present inadequate and fragmented system of domiciliary and community services to include meals on wheels, home help, home maintenance and modification, shopping, home visiting, nursing and other professional services, day centres and hospitals. Labor will review the current public transport system in all regions to ensure that the elderly have equitable and affordable access ensuring that areas of high density aged persons are adequately serviced with public transport. Labor will develop on a regional and local basis, a range of accommodation and health services commencing with:
60 61
62
63
64 65
Assessment and rehabilitation units including independent living units; Short term care for crisis situations and relative relief; Hostels and homes providing a variety of care for the confused; and Nursing homes and hospitals for those requiring more intensive care.
Labor will enforce standards to ensure both adequate care and maximum human dignity and vigorously prosecute those who take advantage of people in a dependent situation. Labor will encourage the community and particularly the elderly, to participate in the development and management of services, particularly at the local level.
63
66 67 68 69 70
Labor will maintain quality of life through support programs for retirement preparation and participation in community programs for those who left the workforce. Labor will assist the aged to remain independent for as long as possible. Labor will fully match Commonwealth funds for programs such as Home and Community Care (HACC). Labor will offer a range of appropriate accommodation and services for those who, because of limited means, lack a suitable home, are experiencing frailty or other disadvantage. Labor will examine the feasibility of implementing taxi-fare concessions for recipients of the aged pension.
People with disabilities

71 72
Labor will continue to enshrine the rights of people with disabilities and protect them from discrimination and exploitation in Tasmanian society. Labor will introduce a Bill of Rights in accordance with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Disabled Persons, the Rights of Mentally Retarded Persons and the Rights of Deaf/Blind Persons. Labor will ensure that all public buildings and facilities such as buses and footpaths are planned in such a way to make provision for the needs of people with disabilities. Labor will ensure equal opportunities for people with disabilities seeking employment. Labor will ensure there are adequate services available to meet the needs of adults and children with disabilities. Labor will continue to support both the Premiers Disability Advisory Council and the Ministers Disability Advisory Committee to achieve greater co-ordination between all government and community agencies associated with the education and care of people with disabilities. Labor will provide a range of concessions to recipients of the disability pension who are holders of the Pensioner Concession Card to assist in meeting the cost of living, including vehicle registration fees, transport and mobility costs. Labor will establish an independent statutory advocate (Office of Public Advocate) to investigate and research service provision for Tasmanians with psychiatric and intellectual disabilities, and a complementary Community Visitors Scheme, with a view to improving the provision of specialist support services and the elimination of physical, sexual and financial abuse of those people. Labor will provide special support services by involving other disciplines such as therapists and psychologists in normal school programs. Labor will where appropriate, expand the number of remedial teachers and teachers aides available specifically trained to assist students with disabilities.
73 74 75 76
77
78
79 80
64
81 82
Labor will, where appropriate, expand special education facilities in close proximity to regular schools for interchange where integrated schooling is not suitable. Labor will encourage teacher training institutions to review their entry requirements for people with disabilities seeking to qualify as teachers, and assist by financial and other means the appointment of such teachers. Labor will encourage the development of training programs on rehabilitation concepts based on the philosophy of self-help and independence. Labor will improve the availability of training places for people with disabilities in areas such as TAFE and Adult Education. Labor will assist the parents and carers of people with disabilities in playing a full and complete role in the education of people with disabilities by providing access to family counselling services and facilitating the maximum degree of input from families in the development of educational programs for people with disabilities. Labor will give priority in planning to the provision of appropriate residential accommodation for people with disabilities and ensure that they are given the choice of remaining in their local community. Labor will ensure research is carried out into the housing needs of people with disabilities and will direct efforts towards realising these needs. Labor will give appropriate priority to people with disabilities in the allocation of housing places. Labor will develop a comprehensive Recreation Strategy for people with disabilities underpinned by thorough research into the needs of people with disabilities. Labor will raise the level of awareness within the community of people with disabilities capacity and right to participate in recreational activities. Labor will support appropriate self-help groups by providing advice and assistance, including financial assistance. Labor will exert direct, ongoing pressure on the Federal Government to collect meaningful statistics on people with disabilities in Australia, and to make this information public. Labor will improve access of people with disabilities to positions within the State Service. Labor will establish appropriate affirmative action programs, in consultation with the trade union movement, for people with disabilities and employers, designed to increase the numbers of people with disabilities in the workforce. Labor will legislate to prohibit all forms of discrimination against people with disabilities in the workplace. Labor will subject all government projects to an impact statement to ensure that the benefits of such projects extend to people with disabilities, and give particular consideration to the special needs of people with disabilities in housing, education, transport and recreation ensuring all future transport systems are designed and built taking into account the needs of people with disabilities.
83 84 85
86
87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94
95 96
65
97
Labor will review the provision of financial assistance enabling people with disabilities to meet their own transport needs whether by use of taxis or adapted motor vehicles.
Housing
98 99
Labor believes adequate and secure housing is the right of all Tasmanians. Labor believes adequate and secure housing is a key to individual and family wellbeing. community.
100 Labor believes adequate and secure housing is necessary for full participation in the 101 Labor believes adequate and secure housing is linked to employment opportunities, and
access to education and health services.
102 Labor believes a strong housing market underpins economic growth 103 Labor recognises home ownership is the preferred housing tenure model for most
Tasmanians:
104 Labor recognises a variety of housing models is necessary to satisfy demand. 105 Labor recognises many Tasmanians have been priced out of the housing market. 106 Labor recognises housing demand remains strong in Tasmania. 107 Labor recognises many Tasmanians remain homeless. 108 Labor recognises that continued investment in affordable housing options Strategy requires
ongoing commitment.
109 Labor will place emphasis on providing choice through innovative housing programs,
balanced to meet the many different needs of Tasmanians.
110 Labor will provide a variety of home ownership programs to help those who may otherwise
be unable to achieve it, and well-managed public and social housing for those who require rental accommodation.
111 Labor will implement major housing programs in five major housing areas: social and public
housing, private housing affordability, residential and tenancy issues, and innovative housing programs.
112 Labor will where public or social housing programs are not able to meet the needs of
indigenous groups, develop relevant programs under the umbrella of community housing programs.
113 Labor will, as far as practicable, give people equal choice between a variety of housing
assistance options which will be made available.
66
Housing strategy
114 Labor will continue to implement a range of affordable housing options which will increase
supply of social and affordable housing.
115 Labor will examine ways to expand the range of housing options. 116 Labor will implement major housing programs in four key housing areas: Public and community housing; Private housing affordability rental and ownership; Residential law reform issues; and Innovative housing programs. 117 Labor will place emphasis on providing choice through a variety of innovative housing
programs, balanced to meet the many different needs of Tasmanians.
118 Labor will concentrate on increasing supply of additional housing, rather than measures that
increase demand.
119 Labor will encourage better land usage and the feasibility of medium density housing. 120 Labor will continue to encourage new homes to be energy efficient, and to upgrade existing
public housing homes to be more energy efficient.
121 Labor will demonstrate an ongoing commitment to social housing as a minimum percentage
of total housing funding
Groups with special needs

122 Labor believes that the following groups in the community have special housing needs:
Women, Indigenous People, Migrants and Refugees, Youth, Older Persons, People with Disabilities and those requiring Crisis Accommodation.
123 Labor recognises that action plans must be developed to assist these groups. 124 Labor will ensure a process of ongoing liaison between the government and groups
representing women with special needs.
125 Labor will monitor, via Women Tasmania (formerly the Office of the Status of Women), the
implementation of policies to ensure that the needs of women are taken into account.
126 Labor will consult with Tasmanian indigenous people on their housing needs with the intent
of obtaining a mutually satisfying Aboriginal housing policy.
127 Labor will consult with organisations involved in the provision of youth housing to determine
an appropriate strategy.
128 Labor will, in conjunction with the Commonwealth Government, increase the supply of
special youth accommodation in Tasmania.
67
129 Labor will consult with older people and their representatives about their housing issues. 130 Labor will maintain an adequate number of units designed for elderly persons by: Construction of units and similar suitable dwellings; and Spot purchasing programs 131 Labor will ensure people with disabilities have a choice of housing models, including choices
of housing models such as independent living units, family living, group homes, duplex living, adaptable housing, co-operative housing or single accommodation.
132 Labor will review the scope and adequacy of crisis accommodation, and appropriate exit
points, for all groups.
133 Labor will develop a state homelessness strategy and action plan. 134 Labor will maintain an adequate number of units designed for elderly persons, with
construction of these units and similar dwellings increased where necessary, as will spot purchasing programs.
135 Labor will review maintenance requirements of existing units and, where applicable,
undertake an upgrading program.
136 Labor will investigate the development of elderly persons housing programs under various
models such as the AbbeyFields scheme.
Housing advisory services

137 Labor believes that a housing advisory service based on a one-stop information centre
model should be provided for all people needing information on any aspect of housing.
138 Labor recognises full information on building, purchase costs, and rental costs is essential
for informed decision making.
139 Labor will establish a centre to provide information on housing and related matters,
including:
All housing programs implemented by State government agencies; Handbooks for people wishing to buy or build homes in Tasmania; Financial, gardening, painting and renovation advice; and Information to provide tenants and landlords.
140 Labor will establish a program to regularly keep public tenants informed of: Alternative tenure possibilities; and Public assistance that may be available to help them achieve this objective.
68
Public housing principles

141 Labor believes the role of government includes responsibility for ensuring that housing
remains affordable for all citizens.
142 Labor recognises the cost of housing is becoming prohibitive and that the cost of land is a
significant and increasing component of housing costs.
143 Labor will continue to provide access to social and/or public housing. 144 Labor will consider establishing Public and Social Housing Principles in relation to public
housing.
145 Labor will abide by benchmarks as agreed with the Commonwealth Government in National
Partnership Agreements in relation to housing affordability.
146 Labor will construct public and/or social housing as part of a well researched development
plan for regional areas.
Housing affordability (home owners)

147 Labor believes the role of government includes responsibility for ensuring that housing
remains affordable for all citizens.
148 Labor recognises the cost of housing is becoming prohibitive. 149 Labor recognises that the cost of land is a significant and increasing component of housing
costs.
150 Labor will provide ways to assist people to obtain and retain home ownership. 151 Labor will review and adjust as necessary, the income limits imposed on people when
determining eligibility for home loans through state government home ownership programs.
152 Labor will, where practicable, assist people facing difficulties with their mortgage
repayments.
153 Labor will, where practicable, assist people to maintain their housing at an acceptable
standard or renovate for specific purposes.
154 Labor will offer a wide variety of programs to meet the individual requirements of the
purchaser.
155 Labor will review the administrative charges on home loans taken out by purchasers of
Departmental public housing in order to evaluate the purpose and formulae used in determining the cost of this administrative charge.
156 Labor will ensure the repayments of low income home loans targeted to families/single
people are affordable.
157 Labor will establish a special home finance scheme that:
69
Gives priority finance in property settlements for the family home to the custodial parent where that person is the applicant; and Ensures that custodial parents dispossessed of their family home through property settlements can apply for low-cost housing loans to purchase a future home.
158 Labor will continue to provide a range of schemes where low to moderate income earners
with limited resources are able to purchase homes with the assistance of the Department of Health and Human Services.
159 Labor will investigate the feasibility of a rental purchase scheme where people wishing to
buy their own home are eligible for assistance under a rental purchase contract.
160 Labor will investigate an owner builder scheme where people, with or without land, who meet
income requirements may be eligible to be financed to build their own home.
161 Labor will investigate a sweat equity loans plan whereby people without a deposit but who
are willing to put work into bringing a house up to standard, may be eligible for a home loan where their hard work is their equity, including:
Homes in need of renovation being purchased by the Department, (replacing flooring, roofing, weatherboards, general renovation works etc); and The cost of the home, plus holding fees, loans for materials and legal fees etc. being the amount of the loan to the purchaser.
162 Labor will enact legislation to identify and utilise vacant State, Commonwealth houses and/or
land for the purpose of public housing and/or joint ventures with the private sector.
Housing affordability (rental)

163 Labor will establish and meet standards of rentals in line with Commonwealth standards.
Innovative housing
164 Labor believes that people should have a range of choices of housing tenure. 165 Labor recognises that different people will prefer different housing models at different times
in their lives.
166 Labor will fund a Community Housing Resourcing body, whose role would be to: Promote the development of all forms of community housing; Provide support, resourcing, training and research for community housing
organizations;
Provide funding to Shelter Tasmania as the peak body representing homeless and persons suffering from housing stress; Adopt Community Housing standards and set objectives in consultation with the community housing sector; Develop accreditation standards for all community housing; and
70
Ensure basic financial reporting and best practice in tenancy participation.
167 Labor will encourage and support the expansion of co-operatives, encourage resident
participation models, and the formation of tenants groups.
168 Labor will encourage the expansion of co-operatives and consider applications for new cooperatives.
169 Labor will investigate the funding of a Community Housing Resourcing body, whose role
would be to:
Promote the development of all forms of community housing; Provide support, resourcing, training and research for community housing organizations; Ensure the implementation of guidelines/best practice standards and set objectives in consultation with the community housing sector; and Develop a code of practice which covers all community housing organisations, to ensure basic financial reporting and best practice in tenancy participation.
Residential and tenancy issues

170 Labor will review Residential Tenancy Act 1997 for its effectiveness in enabling consultation
with relevant interest groups. The primary objectives of this legislation review are to examine:
Certainty to both property owners and tenants in relation to tenancy agreements; Appropriate dispute resolution between property owners and tenants which is easily accessible and understood; The setting of minimum obligations and rights for both tenant and landlord; The need for anti-discrimination measures in tenancy arrangements; and Acceptable processes for the setting of rent levels, maintenance, access and termination of the tenancy.
171 Labor will develop a mandatory code of best practice for boarding houses and other crisis
accommodation support centres.
172 Labor will monitor recent legislation for boarding houses, and develop standards for their
control.
Consumer protection
173 Labor will give high priority to consumer education programs. 174 Labor will accept the responsibility to legislate and provide consumers maximum
opportunities to act on their own behalf in the resolution of conflict resulting from their role as consumers.
71
175 Labor will strengthen the protection of consumers by ensuring consumer protection
legislation is vigorously administered by providing adequate staffing and resources.
176 Labor will review consumer affairs legislation which is costly to business and the community
in general.
177 Labor will support a co-ordinated and uniform approach to consumer affairs throughout
Australia.
Credit laws
178 Labor will co-operate with the States and Territories to establish uniform credit legislation
relating to hire purchase agreements, debt collection, repossessing of goods, and terms and conditions of loans to ensure at least the existing situation whereby credit may be taken in many different forms, be reformed so that any three of the following forms are recognised, including:
A credit sale contract, which is a sale of goods or services where, in respect of the payment for the goods and services, credit is provided to the buyer; A loan contract, which is where a person in the course of a business carried on by him/her agrees to provide credit to another person by paying an amount to that person or in accordance with that person's instruction; and A continuing credit contract, which is revolving credit arrangements, where credit is provided from time to time as with credit cards.
179 Labor will include in uniform credit legislation the following initiatives: That a consumer must be given a statement containing certain details of his/her
obligations under the credit contract, to allow the consumer to consider whether he/she can afford the cost of the credit and to allow 'shopping around' for the 'best price';
Limitations on enforcement of credit contracts, so that before a credit provider can institute proceedings or enforce the security interest after default by the consumer, a notice must be served on the consumer specifying the default and stating the credit provider's intention to exercise any right and remedies unless the default is remedied and enforcement expenses paid within one month; Repossession of goods, where a credit provider is prevented from entering premises to repossess goods without the permission of a court or the consent of the consumer; Credit provider cannot, except with the consent of the court, repossess goods where 75% of the total amount financed has been repaid; If the credit provider does repossess goods, he/she must sell them for the best possible price reasonably obtainable and account for the proceeds of the sale in accordance with the Act; Discrepancy relief from enforcement, an application may be made to the Consumer Claims Tribunal for relief from enforcement proceedings, and allows the Tribunal to restructure payments, particularly where the debtor is no longer able to meet payments due to sickness or unemployment; Guarantors - all contracts of guarantee must be in writing and accompanied by a statement of rights and obligations; Guarantors receive similar protection to debtors;
72
Licensing of credit providers, require credit providers to disclose in writing the annual rate of interest, the amount financed, the credit charge, the total amount payable and the effective rate of interest; and Credit card holders have a right to query the accuracy of items appearing on their statement and the provision that payments on such items not be enforced until queries are answered.
Motor vehicles consumer protection

180 Labor will introduce a range of licensing and registration initiatives to ensure that: A Motor Vehicle Industry Licensing Board is established; Dealers in new and used cars are licensed and registered; Motor cycle dealers are licensed and registered; Repair tradespeople are licensed and registered; Motor vehicle repair premises are licensed and registered; Insurance company assessors (loss adjustors) are licensed and registered; Individual persons who apply for licences are required to demonstrate that they fully
understand the duties and obligations which are imposed by legislation on insurance company assessors, dealers, wreckers, repairers, yard managers and salespeople;
Partnerships and corporations who apply for licences are required to demonstrate that at least one partner or one person currently concerned with the management of the corporation fully understands the duties and obligations which the Act imposes on dealers, wreckers, yard managers and salespeople; Premises used for the sale or repair of motor vehicles are suitable for the purpose; and A minimum level of specified equipment is required for the issue of a repairer's licence.
181 Labor will amend legislation for sale and purchase of second hand vehicles to ensure that
second hand vehicles must have attached by a dealer, a clear statement (Notice of Particulars) of:
Name and business address of motor vehicle owner; If current owner is a registered motor vehicle trader, the name and address of the last owner who was not a trader; Registration and engine number; Odometer reading; Cash price of vehicle; Year of first registration, year of manufacture (if known) and model designation (if any); Any defects the dealer believes to exist in the vehicle; and His/her estimate of the fair cost of repairing or making good that defect.
182 Ensure every agreement for the sale of a second hand motor vehicle must be in writing and
include the following particulars:
73
Price; Value of trade in; Recorded mileage of the car; Description of the car and its engine number; and Credit arrangements and registration details.
183 Labor will legislate to make provision for a Statutory Warranty for second hand motor
vehicles and vary the warranty period according to the cash price of the motor vehicles as follows:
A three month or 5,000 km warranty for vehicles exceeding $1,500 to be indexed from 1985; and A two-month or 3,000 km warranty for vehicles exceeding $1,000 but not $1,500.
184 Labor will oblige the dealer during the warranty period to repair or make good any defects
which occur in the vehicle and to place the vehicle in reasonable condition having regard to its age.
185 Labor will provide exemptions to the warranty provisions which include: Defects arising from an accident; Defects stated on Notice of Particulars; Defects arising from negligence or abuse on the part of the driver; and Defects occurring in tyres, batteries or accessories identified in legislation. 186 Labor will protect licensed dealers in the purchase and/or trade in of vehicles from private
citizens and/or other dealers, including empowering licensed dealers to take action where they have been deliberately misled about the mechanical and/or body condition of a vehicle and the legal ownership of a vehicle.
187 Labor will introduce or amend legislation to provide, wherever there is a justifiable case, for
compulsory and periodical testing of all motor vehicles for roadworthiness or the establishment of a system of licensed low cost voluntary testing.
Home building consumer protection

188 Labor will enact legislation which; Protects new homes, additions or renovations; Ensure that builders are registered and licensed; Provides that all building works of a capital nature are to be supervised by a licensed
builder; and
Provides a consumer warranty to protect consumers against faulty materials, bad building practices or where a builder is unable to complete a job or goes into liquidation.
74
Transport
189 Labor believes in ensuring an effective transport system which encompasses our Tasmanian
uniqueness, island state economy, geographical isolation accommodating our major industries, our small businesses and our dispersed population.
190 Labor believes a long term transport strategy will provide services that meet the needs of our
town and country communities, city areas and encourages development while achieving social equity objectives.
191 Labor believes in providing accessible public transport that meets the needs and hopes of
people who are physically challenged by implementing services that comply with the Disability and Discrimination Act 1992.
192 Labor recognises the need for a transport system which responds to those people who have
special needs due to limited transport choices such as the aged, youth, people who are physically and mentally challenged and those on low incomes.
193 Labor recognises infrastructure which has been analysed and identified is critical to
providing the best mode of transport in terms of social and economic outcomes.
194 Labor recognises the importance of lobbying and support for the reintroduction of a federally
funded Urban Public Transport Act to assist in the development of people friendly cities.
195 Labor will undertake transport infrastructure planning on a coordinated basis to enable the
production of plans to meet short and long term infrastructure objectives, planning to also include extensive community and industry consultation.
196 Labor will make improvements in infrastructure and the provision of transport services for the
betterment of our regional island commerce and employment, transport operators, consumers and local communities.
197 Labor will undertake community consultation on transport issues affecting community areas.
Road transport
198 Labor will promote regulations and industry standards which ensure cost effective quality
assurance and customer service.
199 Labor will develop quality road freighting systems that meet consumers needs, enhance
road safety, occupational health and safety, customer service and provide for a stable economic climate for operators by ensuring competitive cost structures.
200 Labor will implement a mandatory transport operator accreditation system which
understands the needs of local transport operators by offering quality levels of operation which promote investment in the industry by removing fly by nighters.
201 Labor will investigate bench marking, efficiencies and best practise to ensure relevancy for
Tasmania by examining and understanding local road transport cost structures before making any comparisons.
75
202 Labor will fully maintain road and bridge networks by investigating and ensuring proper load
standards, with weight and size restrictions applying to large truck configurations in relation to the sections of the state road network which they use.
Road funding
203 Labor will provide a road funding level that ensures the States road network is maintained
according to clear and genuine funding criteria guidelines.
204 Labor will adopt an open and inclusive approach with local communities by inviting them to
play a key role in assisting the Government in identifying clear road funding criteria.
205 Labor will implement the priority system of country roads, outlining construction dates and
maintenance dates in a way that smaller communities know when their particular timetables for infrastructure work are to be conducted.
206 Labor will investigate the funding asset management of the States road network with an
objective to achieve at equitable levels, a more local, open approach to road improvement.
207 Labor will ensure local input be gained into road planning and developments and that full
consultation be undertaken with local towns people and their surrounds before decisions are finalised.
208 Labor will investigate proper road user cost recovery formulae which take into account social
costs, environment, pollution, accident and conservation.
209 Labor will work with NTC to implementing road pricing reform. 210 Labor will consider fairer road funding options which may encompass industry components
contributing to funding their own road modifications where opportunities may present themselves to assist industry development.
Quality road network

211 Labor will ensure that quality work standards of road construction are maintained to provide
strong pavement and safety conditions.
212 Labor will adopt a coordinated planning and investment strategy for road and rail across
Tasmania.
Urban bus services

213 Labor will ensure people living in rural town and country areas, particularly elderly persons
who have come to rely on private and community cars, can be more fully catered for by identifying their public transport needs.
214 Labor will foster public transport on environmental grounds to reduce the need for additional
vehicles on our roads, specifically to reduce greenhouse gas emission levels, traffic congestion, lower road deterioration and less motor vehicle accidents.
76
215 Labor will support an intrastate bus system which is fast and efficient, which covers all major
intrastate routes.
216 Labor will ensure all small towns have access to a reliable system. 217 Labor will ensure accessible public transport to meet the needs and hopes of people who
have physical disabilities.
218 Labor will accelerate Tasmanias compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992
standards for accessible public transport (adopted October 2002) by providing incentive in contracts to upgrade the bus fleet,
219 Labor will support adequate travel benefits to low income earners who are obliged to use
public transport in order to obtain specialist medical treatment.
220 Labor will continue implementation of the review to provide a
providing a bus transport systems as a whole approach for consumers which would include Metro, private bus, tourist, school bus and community systems on an area by area basis. major transit stations between road and rail, road and sea, road and air.
221 Labor will investigate an internodes system to enable all bus transport to have site access to 222 Labor will strategically site transport depots that can interlink with public transport in order to
link cities and country areas.
223 Labor will ensure that timetables take into account the needs of town and country residents
in tandem with the needs of tourist and business travel.
224 Labor will actively encourage long distance group travel with incentives developed for
operators to provide cheap, fast and efficient services.
225 Labor will facilitate multi purpose use of school buses to include adult passengers and
freight.
School buses
226 Labor will support the implementation of the bus service review, which has been completed
to provide a quality school bus service for students.
227 Labor will provide parents and friends of schools with input into the benchmarking of
conditions of school bus services.
228 Labor will promote and ensure fair contractual arrangements with incentive for school bus
operators and provide modern school bus services that lead to quality services for consumers.
Metro
229 Labor will retain Metro Tasmania in full public ownership. 230 Labor will continue to investigate the potential expansion of services to new and developing
suburbs, by purchasing other bus companies.
77
231 Labor will ensure Metro continues to fulfil its social contract in an outstanding manner. 232 Labor will support the right of workers to be represented by the relevant trade union and to
have access to and be covered by negotiated collective agreements.
Rail Network
233 Labor will support the provision of a reliable rail service to handle general freight and bulk
freight for industry.
234 Labor will ensure the provision and expansion of rail services, employment, security of rail
routes and the prevention of disposing of valuable rail assets.
235 Labor will ensure that the company which operates our rail system fairly treats and respects
union rights towards collective bargaining under ILO conventions.
236 Labor will assist employees involved in rail tourism to be covered by proper industrial
agreements.
237 Labor will use influence wherever possible to ensure collective bargaining rights, industrial
awards and fair wages and conditions are achieved in TasRail.
238 Labor will ensure the use of the rail system network by accredited rail tourist operators will
co-exist in harmony with the principal rail freight operator.
239 Labor will support rail tourism as a growing segment of the tourism industry. 240 Labor will support the inclusion of tourist trains to become part of our summer tourism
transport structure so that the community can run passenger trains and gain access to routes when freight is not being carted.
241 Labor will support the continued growth of rail heritage tourism across the State. 242 Labor will review the Rail Safety act on the basis of National Rail Model Legislation, to
include provisions to ensure all consultation with employees and their unions, the development of a nationally consistent rail safety regulations across Australia, to ensure all accredited operators on the Tasmanian Rail System are required to ensure their workers are competent and appropriately trained to undertake rail safety work.
243 Labor will lobby for and support the development of competitively neutral charging regimes. 244 Labor will support the investigation of the merits of shifting freight from road to rail based on
economic, social and environmental factors.
Ports and shipping

245 Labor will ensure publicly owned ports remain in the marketplace. 246 Labor will support expansion and development of port facilities that facilitate shipping
services as an important part of the transport network in our island state.
78
247 Labor will retain regulated shipping which provides reliable and regular services to foster
employment and state economic growth.
248 Labor will support the retention and improvement of the Bass Strait Freight Equalisation
Scheme.
249 Labor will actively support growth of passenger ferry opportunities on the Bass Strait with
emphasis on multi mode cost effective services and the maintenance of existing services.
250 Labor will support the right of waterfront workers to be represented by the Maritime Union of
Australia and to have access to the dignified process of negotiations in relation to conditions of employment.
251 Labor will support an innovative Tasmanian catamaran construction industry and strongly
oppose any measures imposed such as the reduction of the ship building bounty that would jeopardise the industry being forced off shore.
252 Labor will review the corporate structure and operations of our Port Corporations to. 253 Labor will ensure the structure contains effective areas of representation. 254 Labor will best utilise the Ports work forces and infrastructure. 255 Labor will enable efficient management of handling freight facilities to create the best
outcome for all.
256 Labor will implement a passenger sea transport system which links with other transport as
part of an integrated system.
257 Labor will ensure that booking systems for the ferry are fair, equitable, easy to understand
and efficient.
258 Labor will provide equal sea transport costs to pensioners and veterans with cars and
caravans across Bass Strait, equal to the costs of interstate mainland transport, to enhance trade in country town areas during the tourist off season.
259 Labor will provide full access to smaller ports and waterways for recreational, tourism and
commercial uses by facilitating planning with local government and utilising funds to be strategically allocated to jetties around Tasmania.
Airports and airfreight

260 Labor will support reliable airport services to handle domestic passenger services, freight for
industry and, in particular, the expansion of airport services in the areas of tourism and specialty freight marketing services.
261 Labor will ensure operators of our airports meet our policy guidelines and work to encourage
growth of air freight passenger services, better utilisation of airport terminal facilities and ensure that, where airports have been privatised, they continue to upgrade facilities, maintain competitive pricing and strict environment and safety requirements.
262 Labor will seek commitments from the airlines to make a greater number of seats available
at discount rates consistent with the travel needs of families and older people.
79
263 Labor will canvass interest to reinstate an intrastate service with standby rates and suitable
connections to other modes of transport.
264 Labor will support fully dedicated perishable goods freight services for access to transport
hubs in Victoria and New South Wales, and development work to link market research with similar transport modes.
Motorcycles
265 Labor will work with and consult the Tasmanian Motor Cycle Council as the peak
representative body in the formulation of policy.
266 Labor will continue to work with the TMC to implement enhanced safety measures for
motorcyclists.
267 Labor will ensure that suitable motorcycle riding training venues are maintained.
Bicycles
268 Labor will ensure an expansion of cycle ways by including cycleway planning as part of the
road network, particularly in meeting the need for enhanced safety of bicycles and in high use areas such as around schools and recreational areas.
Taxis and luxury hire care

269 Labor will continue to support the use of Wheel Chair Accessible Taxis (WATS) introduced
to Tasmania to address the needs as outlined in the Disability Act to give equal access to taxi transportation for people who are physically disabled.
270 Labor will actively ensure that safe, cost effective high quality taxi services are maintained
for the consumer.
271 Labor will ensure quality controls and regulations are maintained to enhance the taxi
industry.
272 Labor will ensure the right of taxi drivers to have access to fair conditions of employment. 273 Labor will support regulations and accreditation that will maintain a quality fleet of luxury hire
cars that will provide cost effective quality services to consumers local, interstate and international.
80
Appendix 1: Achievements in government and infrastructure policy

Financial strategy
In order to build a economy that has a balance of positive fiscal, environmental and social outcomes the Bacon Labor Government worked with the Tasmanian people in 2000 to create Tasmania Together, a pioneering project that gave the people of Tasmania an opportunity to state the outcomes towards which they wanted successive Governments to aim. The overall vision Tasmanians expressed and which is still valid today is: Tasmania is an island community, unique for its natural and cultural environment, where people enjoy a prosperous lifestyle based on quality, creativity, and opportunity. Tasmania Together is a world-leading system of community goal setting and measurement of progress which is enshrined in law, the Tasmania Together Progress Board Act 2001. Tasmania Together includes 12 goals and 143 benchmarks that reflect the concerns people expressed during two of the biggest community consultation processes ever undertaken in Tasmania (in 2000 and 2005). Overwhelmingly, Tasmanians have expressed the desire to live in safe, clean communities, with jobs and prosperity for everyone. Tasmanians also want the world to be aware of the tolerance and compassion enjoyed by all people in this State, along with the skills Tasmanians have in areas such as the arts, education and technology. The 12 goals and 143 benchmarks in Tasmania Together continue to provide Tasmanias pathway to the future. They help shape government policy, service delivery and budgets into the future and are being adopted by local government, business and industry, and community groups. An independent statutory authority, the Tasmania Together Progress Board, monitors progress towards the achievement of the goals and benchmarks and results are reported to all Tasmanians through the Parliament. Tasmania Together is a plan that belongs to the whole community, not a single government. Now, with the benefit of a community-driven vision, Tasmanians are building the kind of future people want and deserve, aimed at ensuring our children inherit a fairer, cleaner, safer and more prosperous Tasmania. The next review of Tasmania Together will take place in 2010-11.
The economy
The significant achievements listed below have delivered to the Tasmanian community the following:
Over 48 000 new jobs since 1999. Record low unemployment rate of 3.7 per cent in October 2008 as compared to a double digit figure in the 1990s. Tasmanias most recent quarter of economic growth was very strong behind only the resource boom states of Western Australia and Queensland.
81
A record high $4 billion in private sector investment in 2007-08 in real terms is almost $700 million above the previous year and compares with only $1.9 billion in 1997-98. A record Tasmanian population of 500 00 people after declines in the 1990s. The State has now had 26 consecutive quarters of growth and an increase in population about the size of Devonport.
Achievements: Microeconomic reforms such as the removal of restrictions on shop trading hours, eliminating petrol rostering, harmonisation of payroll tax with other jurisdictions.
Development of Basslink and entry into the National Electricity Market The development of wind generation through Roaring 40s. Introduction of natural gas to Tasmania. Reform of Tasmanias ports through the establishment of a single port company Introduction of the Spirits. Implementation of fiscal policies that eliminated $1.6 billion of Liberal debt and secured Tasmanias AAA credit rating. Tax cuts including: cutting payroll tax twice; cutting land tax twice; abolishing the electricity levy; abolishing debits duty; abolishing the financial institutions duty; and eliminating mortgage duty. These changes are now delivering tax relief worth $200 million per year. Payroll tax cuts are worth around $24 million per year. Tasmania has moved from being the second highest taxing State to the second lowest as measured by the independent Commonwealth Grants Commission. Completion of the Tamar Valley Power Station and delivering energy security to Tasmania. Delivering broadband competition to Tasmania through the States investment in optic fibre. Initiating water and sewerage reforms to improve Tasmanias environmental and public health outcomes and deliver $1 billion of investment over the next decade.
Industrial relations

Amended the Industrial Relations Act 1984 to further protect employees and employers. Amending the Workplace Health and Safety Act and Regulations to strengthen mine safety. Working with the Australian Government to have consistency (harmonisation) across jurisdictions in a number of areas including occupational health and safety and occupational licensing. In 2009 the Government's response to the Clayton Review of the Workers Compensation system will be implemented to improve fairness for injured workers.
82
Law and justice

Anti Discrimination Act 1998 Review Following previous submissions, a report was prepared and released in the latter part of 2008 dealing with the way complaints are handled and disputes resolved under the Act. A final report is expected to be completed shortly. Civil Liability Amendment Bill 2008 Protection of good Samaritans and changes in relation to food donors. Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Amendment Bill 2008 Numerous amendments such as requirements for exhibiting films in a public place; no sales under different title or altered form; and exemptions of approved organisations for certain activities and functions. Court Mandated Diversion of Drug Offenders The CMD initiative was funded through the Commonwealths Illicit Drug Diversion program and began in Tasmania in July 2007. It was assessed after its first year of operation and the findings of that evaluation were released in January 2009. Criminal Code Amendment Bill 2008 Deals with trafficable quantities and exceptions to double jeopardy rules. Freedom of Information Act 1991 Review An expert advisory panel has been appointed. The review commenced with a public consultation period from November 2008 to February 2009. A Directions Paper was released for consultation in May 2009. Improvements in Governance and Accountability in GBEs and Financial Management Frameworks A Tasmanian Government Business Governance Framework Guide has been completed. The Guide outlines a best practice governance framework for GBEs and State owned companies. Justice and Related Legislation (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2008 Administration and Probate Act 1935 (powers of personal representatives). Anti-Discrimination Act 1998 (amended regulations). Bill of Sale Act 1900 (power of court to decide construction of bill of sale). Civil Liability Act 2002 (damages for gratuitous services). Civil Process Act 1870 (judges to make rules). Community Protection (Offender Reporting Act) 2005 (appeals). Fatal Accidents Act 1934 (assessing damages). Freedom of Information Act 1991 (information relating to functions of DPP). Public Trustee Act 1930 (power of judges to make rules).
83
Telecommunications (Interception) Tasmania Act 1999 (documents to be given to minister). Terrorism (Preventative Detention) Act 2005 (release of person from preventative detention). Trustee Act 1898 (power of judges to make rules).
Justice and relates Legislation (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2009 Crime (Confiscation of Profits) Act 1993 (allows DPP to give undertakings on behalf of the State). Director of Public Prosecutions Act 1983 (includes legal immunity provision for act done in good faith). Guardianship and Administration Act 1995 (clarification of board powers and the making of interim orders on adjournment). Independent Order of Rechabites (Agreement) Act 1981 (closed expended trust account). Mental Health Act 1996 (prevents initial medical practitioner confirming or discharging initial order). Motor Accidents (Liabilities and Compensation) Act 1973 (clarifies suspension of driver licence under MPE Act). Public Trustee Act 1930 (removes requirement to advertise in estates less than $20,000 and distribution of monies from the common fund after five years without a court order). Amends a number of other acts for consistency with the Legal Profession Act 2007. Legal Profession Act 2007 (commenced 31 December 2008) The Act, which derives from national model laws and is intended to provide efficiency nationwide, also creates a Legal Profession Board to investigate complaints and to discipline practitioners for unsatisfactory professional conduct. Monetary Penalties Enforcement (Consequential Amendments) Bill (No. 2) 2008 Deals with registered operators of motor vehicles and suspending registration by not complying with a notice of demand. Partnership Amendment Bill 2009 Significant changes to partnership laws. Poisons Amendment (Poppy Advisory and Control Board) Bill 2008 Creation of Poppy Advisory and Control Board
Public Interest Disclosure Act 2002 Review This is a review on the protections which are available to those who need to blow the whistle on wrongdoing in the public sector. Following the first round of public consultation, a paper was recently released on Strengthening trust in governmentthe spotlight on improper conduct.
Protocol for Appointment of Judicial Officers The Protocol was released on 5 May 2009. The new approach was developed after extensive consultation with key stakeholders. It is designed to deliver a more transparent and thorough process for judicial appointments.
84
Register of Lobbyists A paper examining options for the registration and regulation of lobbyists in Tasmania has been prepared for Government consideration. Recommendations including establishing a register and a code of conduct for lobbyists who lobby any member of Parliament, ministerial adviser or head of agency. Relationships (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2009 Places co-mothers in the same legal position as a man who has agreed to his partner becoming pregnant through Artificial Reproductive Technology (ART). Changes the Adoption Act so that both of a childs co-mothers must give their consent before that child can be considered for adoption. Safe at Home Legislation In 2008 Safe at Home won a national award the Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Award. Sex Industry Offences Act 2005 Review This review into the effectiveness of the Act was tabled in State Parliament on 28 May 2009. It is expected that this review will generate considerable debate among those who have strong views on the issue, including sex workers themselves. SMS Bail Project Tasmanias first SMS Bail Project was launched on 26 February 2009. The SMS Bail project is the result of a cooperative strategy by Tasmania Police and the Magistrates court, and will use mobile phones to alert people to pending court appearances. Trustee Companies Amendment Bill 2009
Major tourism achievement

The volume of airline seats to and from Tasmania has grown by over a million seats in the last ten years, from around 2.4 million seats to over 3.5 million today. A decade ago, around 520,000 visitors came to Tasmania each year. Now, we welcome close to 1 million visitors annually, Ten years ago, visitors to Tasmania spent a total of just over $550 million a year. Ten years later, they are spending almost $1.5 billion every year. The Labor Government Introduced Spirits of Tasmania I and II, which increased the opportunity for more holiday visitors to come to Tasmania and bring their own cars. When combined with the increase in airline capacity, visitors and Tasmanians now have more travel choices than ever before. Labor introduced the $16 million twoyear Tourism Promotion Plan in 2006 to stimulate tourism and regional tourism development, and in 2006, provided a further $3 million per annum for four years for tourism marketing.
85
The number of tourism businesses in Tasmania has grown from about 1300 operators ten years ago to around 2400 businesses today. Tasmanian Visitor Survey figures show that this State achieved record high levels of visitor numbers, nights and spending in the 2008 calendar year, despite a softening demand in domestic tourism.
86
Appendix 2: Achievements in community, human and transport services policy

Labor recognises the following: The Tasmanian Labor Government has in place a range of important reforms in the human services area, in child protection, family support and in out-of-home care, supported by a significant commitment of $35.5M over four years. Gateway and Integrated Family Support Services are being implemented to co-locate senior child protection workers and services to ensure referral to child protection services when needed. The reform of out-of-home care is designed to better meet the needs of children and young people who have experienced considerable abuse and neglect, with services being provided by the nongovernment sector. Cooperation between Education, Police and Correctional Services aims to address the needs of young people at risk in the community, particularly in relation to teen pregnancy, substance abuse or school failure. Initiatives are being progressed that focus on providing earlier intervention, greater options for bail and remand, regional and state youth at risk action plan, greater integrations of child protection, youth justice and family support and the development of a youth homelessness plan. A Youth at Risk position has been established and a Review of the Youth Justice Act 1997 is also underway (to be completed in Sept 09) to address bail, remand and sentencing issues. Access to education and training opportunities has improved for residents of Ashley Youth Detention Centre with the school now remaining open for 48 weeks a year. A transition program is also in place to assist residents back into education and training on release from the Centre. The Tasmanian Labor Government has developed strategies right across the affordable housing continuum. These include record capital investment by the State and Federal governments of $260M over four years including the Tasmanian Housing Fund ($60M over 4 years) and Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan (around $149M over 3 years) which will result in up to 2000 new units being constructed, as well as upgrades of around 150 existing Housing Tasmania properties. These capital works will fund an estimated 3,120 jobs in the building industry over the next three years, including up to 1,680 direct construction jobs and up to 1,440 jobs in the manufacture and supply of building materials. The National Affordable Housing Agreement ($132.8M over four years) aims to improve access to affordable, safe and sustainable housing. Reform of the Social Housing area will be assisted by National Partnerships across Social Housing ($9.3 m), Remote Indigenous ($14.6M over five years) and Homelessness ($18.6M over four years). $8M has been spent to build 50 Quickbuild homes to assist in reducing supply problems. Tasmanias first Common Ground style housing development under the Commonwealth/State A Place to Call Home initiative has also been put in place to get people into housing more quickly. This 45 unit housing development and support service in Hobarts inner city is worth a total of $9.6M and construction will commence in 2009-10. In 2009-10 Housing Tasmania will spend around $18M on 34 organisations to provide specialist homelessness services. In 2008-09, 7100 people were assisted, including 4700 adults and 2400 accompanying children. In the Disability area, $135M will be used over four years, including $28.1M in 2009-10, as a specific purpose payment from the Australian Government under the National Disability Agreement. $1.4M in 2009-10 will fund up to 18 new accommodation places for people with disability around Tasmania. The Tasmanian Labor Government will inject $28M over four years to
87
help fund improved wages and conditions for disability support workers in the community sector following a recent industrial agreement. The Rental Deposit Authority (RDA) will commence on 1 July 2009 and will receive all security deposits paid in connection with a residential tenancy agreement, making the process for getting bonds back easier, quicker and fairer. The Tasmanian Labor Government is moving toward a disclosure regime for property sales based on the principle of original full disclosure in order to reduce disputes regarding contracts. The Tasmanian Labor Government is currently for the planning and delivery biggest investment of funding into road and rail track infrastructure in the States history with the 2008/09 Program alone worth $186.6 M. The Tasmanian Labor Government has secured $500M from the Federal Government from 2009/2010 to 2013/14 for major road and rail projects. The Tasmanian Labor Government is developing a 10 Year State Infrastructure Strategy to support current and future infrastructure demands. This includes development of coordinated regional frameworks, such as the draft Southern Integrated Transport Plan which is open for comment till August 31. Road works completed or underway include on the Bass Highway, East Tamar Highway and Tasman Highway. The Tasmanian Labor Government is also delivering on 2006 State election commitments, such as the Lyell Highway, South Arm Highway, Mornington Roundabout, increased funding for linemarking and the roll out of a $2M State Black Spot Program. The Brighton Transport Hub, Brighton Bypass and Kingston Bypass projects are contributing to the largest transport investment in the south of the State. The Tasmanian Labor Government has introduced a range of initiatives in urban transport including, intelligent initiatives for managing congestion such as bus lanes, electronic speed limits and energy efficient, low emission traffic signals. An urban transport study has considered alternative transport options, such as cycling, bus priority lanes, light rail and park and ride. The Tasmanian Labor Government has implemented the recommendations of the Core Passenger Services Review and this has so far seen about 150 new buses in 15 months, as well as fairer contracts for operators and a more equitable fare structure for users. There is now a requirement in place for all new small school buses to be fitted with seatbelts. Through Metro Tasmania, the Tasmanian Labor Government has introduced 12 clean, energy efficient Euro 5 buses, with another six on order. Also five new state-of-the-art hybrid dieselelectric buses will be introduced. The remainder of Metro Tasmanias existing bus fleet will be converted to bio-diesel during the coming year. A smart ticketing system will be expanded to give passengers easy options for ticket purchasing on-line and instant access to accurate information via active electronic sign boards at major bus interchanges, and by mobile phone. The Tasmanian Labor Government has formally entered into a Heads of Agreement to progress the purchase of Ascianos Pacific National Tasmania rail business for $32 M. This includes $6M to purchase the Melba Line assets, and $26M for the purchase of the remainder of the business assets including locomotives, rolling stock and buildings. It has secured $122M to ensure the track network is upgraded to a reasonable condition, with a $30M rail sleeper replacement contract commenced in January and a further $4.4M is to be spent on rail crossing upgrades. TasPorts has worked hard to create a more integrated, efficient ports system. Strategies have included undertaking the Meyrick Report into the working port of Hobart, centralisation of the three Northern Ports Port Control in Bell Bay and a commitment to publicly consult on future development of Macquarie Wharf 1. The Tasmanian Labor Government is developing a State wide cycling policy and is currently working closed with councils and cycling groups to implement a range of projects to support cyclist. These include a growing network of cycleways in urban and regional areas.
88
In 2008 the Tasmanian Labor Government introduced significant reforms to the taxi and luxury car hire industries. The benefits include successfully negotiated increase in taxi fares with industry, the abolition of future perpetual taxi licence releases, the introduction of owner-operator taxi licences and measures to promote the provision of wheelchair accessible taxi services in rural and remote areas. The new $20M Motor Registry System was introduced in late August 2008 to replace outdated technology nearly 30 years old. The MRS is a vital streamlined tool for road safety, enforcing road laws, and in fighting crime such as car theft and fraud. On the road safety front, we have developed a 10 Year Road Safety Strategy, focussing on four key strategic directions: safer travel speeds, best practice infrastructure, increased safety for young drivers and enhanced vehicle safety. A $20 Road Safety Levy on vehicle registrations was introduced and is being utilised to roll out a comprehensive program of safety measures including; installation of wire rope barrier, electronic school zone speed signs, innovative technology, public education campaign on vehicle safety, and novice driver reforms. Tasmanias new Heavy Vehicle Safety Code was launched in December 2008. The Tasmanian Motorcycle Safety Strategy saw the introduction of a Safety Measures Trial involving installation of motorcycle safety infrastructure, including stack cushions and rub rail. The Road Risk Reduction education resource aimed at Years 9 and above, or the pre-learner period was offered to secondary schools and colleges through professional development workshops for teachers. To date 120 teachers and community education representatives have attended RRR professional development workshops with approximately 64% of secondary schools using it in 2008.
89
Notes
i The 2008 Tasmanian Labor Conference supported the reform of the Tasmanian Parliament to improve Tasmanias quality of governance. A report prepared by the Government and Infrastructure Platform Committee for the Administrative Committee in regard to this matter was endorsed at its June 2009 meeting. However, the details of Parliamentary Reform will be decided in collaboration with the Tasmanian public as outlined above. ii The 2008 Tasmanian Labor Conference requested the State Labor Government to consider strongly further amalgamations of local government councils in Tasmania and that financial incentives for such amalgamations be provided; and that such amalgamations not be forced amalgamations. The Conference also supported the principle of recognition of local government in the Australian Constitution, and that this matter be forwarded as a resolution to the National Conference of the Australian Labor Party in 2009. iii The 2008 Tasmanian Labor Conference also supported compulsory voting at all levels of Government, including Local Government and suggested that the current Labor Government carry out a period of consultation with stakeholders prior to implementing compulsory voting at a local government level; and the direct election of Mayors at Local Government elections. iv At the 2008 State ALP conference a resolution was passed to this effect. v State Government Employment and Training Policy: Labor notes the review of this valuable policy by Skills Tasmania and will ensure that reviewed policy includes the requirement for mandatory on site compliance monitoring; and will ensure that the mandatory requirement for compliance is communicated to all Tasmanian builders to ensure that a tendering advantage is not gained by simply ignoring training requirements. Labor will also ensure that built into this policy is an annual reporting process to the Building & Construction Industry Council for information purposes. vi
As part of creating an infrastructure to promote the capacity for Tasmanian industry to engage in fair business practices, the State Labor Government will introduce a Building & Construction Industry Security of Payment Act. Unless there is any indication that the following provisions are not sound, the Act will: allow claimants to secure payment on account inexpensively and speedily, without the need for expensive use of lawyers, court hearings, witnesses, cross examinations and all that is usually involved in arbitration or litigation; have application to all industry players; ensure that any person who undertakes to carry out construction work (or who undertakes to supply related goods and services) under a construction contract is entitled to receive, and is able to recover, progress payments in relation to the carrying out of that work and the supplying of those goods and services; include a role for teh State Industrial Commission as the adjudication body; and be informed by the Building & Construction Industry Council State of the Industry Report for 2006.
vii Privatisation Labor opposes the privatisation of any State Owned Company (SOC) or State Government Business Enterprise (GBE) unless there are demonstrable benefits to the broad Tasmanian economy, including fiscal, employment, tourism, social and environmental considerations. More particularly, Labor is opposed to the privatisation of any publicly owned power infrastructure with the exception of the Tamar Valley Power Station and whole heartedly supports the past Bacon Labor Governments promise to never sell the Hydro and the poles and wires. As past practice in Australia has shown, any privatisation of power infrastructure would see wholesale job losses and a severe drop in electricity services, reliability and upkeep of infrastructure. The 2008 Tasmanian Labor Conference requested the State Labor Government agree that an outcome such as this would be disastrous for Tasmania; and confirmed that the State Government would not for any reason sell Tasmanias publicly owned power infrastructure companies, the Hydro, Transend Network or Aurora Energy. viii Privatisation Labor opposes the privatisation of any State Owned Company (SOC) or State Government Business Enterprise (GBE) unless there are demonstrable benefits to the broad Tasmanian economy, including fiscal, employment, tourism, social and environmental considerations. More particularly, Labor is opposed to the privatisation of any publicly owned power infrastructure with the exception of the Tamar Valley Power Station and whole heartedly supports the past Bacon Labor Governments promise to never sell the Hydro and the poles and wires. As past practice in Australia has shown, any privatisation of power infrastructure would see wholesale job losses and a severe drop in electricity services, reliability and upkeep of infrastructure. The 2008 Tasmanian Labor Conference requested the State Labor Government agree that an outcome such as this would be disastrous for Tasmania; and confirmed that the State Government would not for any reason sell Tasmanias publicly owned power infrastructure companies, the Hydro, Transend Network or Aurora Energy.
In order to run according to principles which maximise service provision and minimise waste, if the Tasmanian State Government ever moves to a user pays Ambulance services charge, The 2008 Tasmanian Labor Conference requested the State Labor Government to consider that the fairest outcome for all Tasmanians would be that an Ambulance levy be added to and included in the present Commonwealth Medicare Levy which at present is 1.5% of taxable income included in the amount of taxation they pay. To maximise the efficient and effective use of Government resources in a manner which also supports the continuation of Australian industry and supports the environment, the following two matters were passed at the 2008 Tasmanian Labor Conference: Government Purchase of Vehicles the State Government was called on to support Australian Manufacturing and in particular the Australian Car industry, by purchasing motor vehicles that are manufactured in Australia and comply with Government emission guidelines when purchasing vehicles for the Government fleet; and The use of Carbon Neutral Paper the State Conference called on: o the executive of the Australian Labor Party Tasmania to ensure that all ALP publications are printed on Envi paper; and o the State Labor Government to ensure that all Government Publications (including departmental publications) are printed on Envi.
ix
90
A discussion paper will be prepared on the need for broad-based employment incentives to be developed for Tasmania in order to attract and retain workers. It will place particular emphasis on the following issues: parity with interstate salaries (where possible in the current global economic crisis); the role of productivity in determining public sector salaries; the need for portable employment entitlements such as superannuation and long service leave; legislative amendments to enable salary packaging and salary sacrifice; and the role of automatic, legislated linkages for certain occupations. The relevant Minister/s will address State Conference in 2010 on the contents of the discussion paper and any implementation plans the Minister has.
xi
Long Service Leave the State conference called on the State Government to amend section 8 (2) (a) (i), (ii), (iii), Section 8 (2) (b) and section 8 (3) of the Long Service Leave Act 1976 to read: 8(2) (a) (i) 13 weeks long service leave in respect of the first 10 years continuous employment with his employer: (ii) 13 weeks long service leave in respect of each additional 10 years continuous employment with his employer and; (iii) on the termination of his employment, an additional period of long service leave in respect of the number of years continuous employment with his employer since the last accrual of entitlement to long service leave under the foregoing provisions of this paragraph, such period of long service leave as bears the same proportion to 13 weeks as that number of years bears to 10 years: or (b) in the case of an employee to whom this paragraph applies by virtue of subsection (3) who has completed 7 years, but has not completed 10 years, continuous employment with his employer such period of long service leave as bears the same proportion to 13 weeks as the total period of the employees continuous employment with his employer bears to 10 years. Section 8 (3) by adding a section (e) to read an employee who terminates his employment.
xii
The Tasmanian Branch of the ALP will call on the Federal Labor Government to implement a national scheme of paid parental leave as soon as practical following the final report of the Productivity Commission. Public Sector School Attendants: the 2008 Conference acknowledged the crucial and exceptional work school attendants perform within our school communities. Conference noted that school attendants perform duties far above the required level of commitment of their employment and also acknowledged the importance of the support school attendants provide to staff and students within the school community. Conference acknowledged that successive ALP State Governments, since the election of the Bacon Government in 1998, have committed to supporting school attendants by signing a job Security agreement with the LHMU guaranteeing the job security of over 1000 school attendants, cleaners, grounds people and utility officers in schools, colleges and TAFEs across the state. Conference called upon the State Government to recognise the importance of Job Security and direct employment of our school attendants, cleaners, grounds people and utilities by committing to sign on to a new Job Security Agreement.
xiii
xiv
Workplace Health & Safety Regulations The 2008 ALP State Conference called upon the Minister for Workplace Relations to amend the Workplace Health and Safety Regulations 1998 as follows: Delete parts (1), (a), (b) and (c) of regulation 116 and insert in lieu thereof the following Regulation; and amend the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995 to allow union officials to enter premises, where members of their union, or workers who are eligible to become members of their union are working, during working hours to check on occupational health and safety conditions. This is because Union access to check occupational health and safety conditions and concerns, are severely restricted by the Federal Governments WorkChoices legislation; and this having an adverse affect on safety conditions in many workplaces and greatly concerns union members. Furthermore, most states and territories have a right of entry provision included in their health and safety acts. A similar such resolution was carried at the ALP Tasmanian Branch State Conference held on Saturday 5 August 2006 and Sunday 6 August 2006.
Pending the legislative change, the State Conference called on the Minister to exercise power pursuant to section 34(3) of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995 (the Act) and authorise union officials to perform such of the functions and exercise such powers of an inspector under the Act.
xv Clean Start Fair Deal for Cleaners: the State Conference acknowledged the important contributions of cleaners working in the property services industry across Tasmania and congratulated cleaners for the work they have done in promoting the Clean Start campaign and their fundamental working rights in this state. Conference condemned that some cleaners in Tasmania continue to be exploited by being forced into pyramid sub-contracting practices exposing them to employment insecurity, hours cuts, and below award pay and entitlements. Conference supported the concept that Cleaners need jobs that provide them with basic economic security, enough time to do their jobs properly and safely and respect in their workplaces, as essential elements of the Clean Start reforms. Therefore conference urged every member of the Labor Party to commit their support for the Cleaners in their struggle for justice. Further Conference committed the current Labor government, as a significant owner and tenant of commercial property in Tasmania, to take a whole of government approach in adopting the Principles for a Clean Start as a guideline for state government procurement for contracted property services and called for the Labor government to use its influence with the business community to ensure that the Principles for a Clean Start are widely supported and adopted by private property owners to guide tendering and contracting practices in their buildings.
91
xvi
State Conference called on the State Government to review the 30 per cent whole of person impairment threshold for accessing common law entitlements and replace with a more effective and fairer model that takes into account the injury and effect on the injured worker as an individual. State Conference determined that the Government restore immediately to workers and their families, security of income during receipt of workers compensation payments, through the removal of the step down provisions in the Workers Compensation Act. Conference also noted that three earlier State conferences had also made this call. xvii Industrial Manslaughter State Conference called on the State Government to adopt in full the recommendations as outlined in the Tasmanian Law Reform Institute Criminal Liability of Organisations Final Report no 9 April 2007. xviii State Conference called on the Tasmanian Government to introduce a Charter of Rights and Tasmanian Human Rights Commissioner to further protect human rights in Tasmania.
xix
Custodial Workers Conference noted that that; 1. 2. 3. 4. Correctional Officers look after a vast number of people who do not want to be in prison, some prisoners are anti social, violent and unpredictable towards correctional officers It is internationally recognised that rehabilitation services, both within prisons and afterwards, have a beneficial impact on reducing recidivism. Improving the living standards through better education and employment opportunities also has a beneficial impact on whether people enter a life of crime. The management of rehabilitation services within prisons creates a variety of issues including the secure management on inmates and the protection of correctional staff.
Therefore Conference: A. B.
xx
Urged the State Government to take all possible steps to increase and where necessary, improve the quality, range and delivery of in prison rehabilitation services recognising that this is in the best interests of society as a whole; and Congratulated Correctional Officers on the high quality of their work in the difficult circumstances they work in.
a) b) c)
xxi
The latest Australian Bureau of Statistics Tourism Satellite Account showed that; Tourism directly employs around 14 000 Tasmanians It also indirectly employed about 11 000 Tasmanians (those who provide services to tourism businesses) Tourism contributes almost 5% to GSP, which is well above the national average of 3.7%
Such an approach should include regular Whole-of-Government liaison to ensure that issues such as genetically modified plants are not brought into Tasmania if Tasmania is to retain its reputation for healthy, high quality, gourmet produce; pristine wilderness areas are protected and effectively managed; and timber use in Tasmania is proactively addressed. (See the relevant platform documents.)
92

State Platform 2009

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

State Platform 2009

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Authorised by John Dowling Level 2, 63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Appendix 2: Achievements in community, human and transport services policy Notes

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

John Dowling State Secretary

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Chapter 1: A Statement of Labors Beliefs

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Principles of social justice

Principles of community partnership

Principles of good government

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Tasmanian labors fundamental goals

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Chapter 2: Education & Technology

Labors beliefs define Labors goals.

Education is a defining part of an individuals growth and self development

Education is the way individuals can gain knowledge and skills

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Education is the keystone of a technologically capable social democracy

Education is an investment in the productive capacity of the nation

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Chapter 3: Health, women & youth

Provision of healthcare services

Health promotion and education

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Community health services

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Alcohol and drugs

Blood borne viruses and sexually transmitted infections

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Sexual assault support services

Sport, recreation and fitness

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Tasmanian institute of sport

Premiers physical activity council

High quality sporting facilities

Workforce health and wellbeing

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

State and local government recreation strategic plan

Development of sport and recreation for people with a disability

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Increase opportunities for respite care.

Gender policy development

Labor will: Provide equitable allocation of funds and facilities to girls;

Post compulsory schooling

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Vocational education and training

Employment and training

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Non-government youth organisations

The government sector

Developing an action plan for the youth sector

Training our youth

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Empowering local communities and families

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Tasmanias decentralised population

Youth political participation

Authorised by John Dowling, 2/63 Salamanca place, Hobart, TAS 7000

Chapter 4: Human and transport services