Workers' Compensation Premiums

Workers' Compensation Premiums

I am currently seeking information from regional employers about their workers' compensation insurance. The Shadow Minister for Industrial Relations Michael Gallacher and I are concerned that regional employers are paying more than they should for their workers' compensation insurance. The aim of collecting details is to document cases to inform and develop policy as part of the reform process. I would like to encourage people to write with their specific circumstances, concerns or problems supporting our pressure on the Carr Government to address the problems associated with Workers Compensation in NSW.

AVO's Proposed To Change

I am pleased that a discussion paper has been prepared by the Attorney-General's Department which includes a proposal to charge applicants for Apprehended Violence Orders (AVO's). Problems have been created in the AVO system since the Carr Government removed the discretion of judges and magistrates to rule on the legitimacy of AVOs. The discussion paper provides the opportunity to express your concerns about AVO's.

Minister Whelan's Visit?

I was surprised and disappointed to learn of Minister Whelan's recent visit to the Lismore electorate following an enquiry by a constituent, who like myself, was unable to obtain detail of the visit. Since being elected I have offered all members of parliament common courtesy by advising of times spent in other electorates, regardless of political persuasion and furthermore protocol indicates purely that.

Now putting protocol aside, I was pleased that Minister Whelan confirmed the 24 hour policing in Casino. However, I was dissatisfied that the terrible conditions and lack of facilities at Lismore Police Station were not recognised by the Minister.

Driver Reviver Stations

It is of great concern when Government bureaucratic red tape has an affect on vital community activities. Recent advice to hand indicates activities carried out by important Driver Reviver Stations are being threatened by the issuing of impractical WorkCover Occupational Health and Safety guidelines. Whilst safety is always paramount it should be achievable in practical terms to enable services such as Driver Reviver Stations to continue.

Electricity Problems

The Energy Industry Ombudsman NSW Scheme was established by the NSW electricity distributors: Advance Energy Australian Inland Energy, EnergyAustralia, Great South Energy, Integral Energy, NorthPower and the transmission authority, TransGrid. Launched on 9 June 98, by the Minister for Energy and has received over 3000 customer contacts to date. EION's aim is to be as accessible as possible to electricity customers and complaints need not be in writing. Freecall number 1800 246 545.

NSW Training Market 2000 Tender Specification

The NSW Department of Education and Training is inviting training organisations registered with or mutually recognised by VETAB to tender for the provision of training. A briefing session of approx 3 hrs, designed to assist in completing the application and answer questions, will take place on Tuesday 7 September 1999 at 10.00 am at RSL Sports Club, Oliver Avenue Goonellabah.