Editors Picks
18 October 2024
ICAC BRINGS OUTEACH PROGRAM TO WESTERN SYDNEY
THE NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) will conduct a series of educational and information events over the next two weeks as part of an outreach program that will return to Western Sydney for the first time in 16 years.
A highlight of the visit will be a discussion with ICAC Chief Commissioner the Hon John Hatzistergos AM and Commissioner the Hon Helen Murrell SC, who will address approximately 118 guests, mostly public officials, at a special forum in Parramatta on Thursday morning October 24, 2024.
Chief Commissioner Hatzistergos said outreach programs are an important way for the Commission to connect with NSW public officials and communities.
“Western Sydney is a fast-growing region. It is not only home to an increasing number of residents, and a vibrant social and cultural area, but is also the location of several State Government agencies and local councils,” Chief Commissioner Hatzistergos said.
“The Commission is keen to share information with public officials and others in Western Sydney about the work and functions of the ICAC and the role – and in some cases obligations – that they have in helping to raise awareness and report suspected corrupt conduct.”
Workshops scheduled for this visit include corruption prevention for managers, which focuses on developing an understanding of the nature of corruption, how and why it occurs, and what managers can do to prevent it; corruption prevention in procurement and contract management, which aims to assist managers and staff responsible for procurement to identify where systems weaknesses and corruption opportunities may lie; and corruption prevention in the NSW planning system, which will assist officers involved in assessing property development and rezoning applications and related certification to identify and manage the corruption risks associated with these activities.
There will also be a fact finder workshop, to assist public officials with little or no investigative experience who may be required to conduct an internal fact-finding investigation, and a workshop for electorate office staff located in the area. A session for returning and newly-elected councillors will also be conducted as part of the visit.
This ICAC program has been in place since 2001 and mainly comprises about two visits per year throughout rural and regional NSW. The last visit to Western Sydney was based in Rooty Hill in 2008.
Featured
05 October 2024
BUSHFIRE SEASON MENTAL HEALTH CONCERNS
CEO urges people to seek support
WENTWORTH Healthcare, the provider of the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network, is encouraging the community to prepare their mental wellbeing, as well as their homes, for the upcoming bushfire season.
05 October 2024
MAYOR OF LIVERPOOL RETURNED TO OFFICE
“I am honoured and humbled by the overwhelming show of community support and pledge myself to serve all the residents of Liverpool City,” Liverpool Mayor, Councillor Mannoun said.
“Democracy is an important and vital part of western society. It allows the people to have their say in who shapes their future.
“The most important thing is that the people have spoken and have selected the community leaders they want. The people voted for a clear plan and we look forward to delivering on the plan.
“I congratulate all the Councillors who have also been elected and thank the unsuccessful candidates for their desire to contribute to our wonderful city.
“I look forward to working harmoniously and productively with the new Council to achieve the best possible outcomes for the city, its residents and those who do business here.”
03 October 2024
SCOUTS APPOINT ANTHEA AS THEIR CHAIR
SCOUTS NSW has appointed Anthea Cudworth as Chair and Kaylene Hubbard as Deputy Chair following its Annual General Meeting. Anthea brings over 20 years of corporate affairs experience and has volunteered with Scouts for over a decade, while Kaylene has 25 years in professional services and is a former Managing Partner at KPMG. The Board also welcomed new Ex-Officio Directors Philip Cooper and Niamh Hitchman. Chief Commissioner Lloyd Nurthen praised the new leadership's potential to navigate challenges in the not-for-profit sector.
03 October 2024
LOOKING AT BETTER TRAINING FOR VENUES
THE NSW Government is exploring adding sexual harassment and violence prevention training to the Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) handbook for licensed venues. This follows recent updates addressing drink spiking, requiring staff to take specific actions during incidents. Advocacy groups have pushed for expanded RSA training, and the revised handbook, issued to training providers, must be updated by September 30, 2024. Campaigns like "Ask for Angela" complement these efforts to improve venue safety.
03 October 2024
E- SCOOTER RIDERS FACE TOUGH PENALTIES
E-SCOOTER riders can face significant penalties for breaking the law, similar to car drivers. Slater and Gordon Legal Counsel, Jess Lyons, warns of license loss for offenses like exceeding alcohol limits or speeding. Rules vary by state, with speed limits ranging from 15-25km/h. Helmets are mandatory, and restrictions apply on where e-scooters can be ridden. South Australia has the strictest regulations, requiring registration and insurance for e-scooters used outside private property.
03 October 2024
SALVOS ARE CALLING FOR MORE VOLUNTEERS
THE Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) is urging NSW residents to volunteer ahead of the upcoming disaster season. Volunteers provide vital support during disasters, offering meals, supplies, and emotional assistance to first responders and survivors. With a long history of disaster relief, SAES seeks passionate volunteers for various roles. The thorough application process ensures the right fit, with training provided. Visit the Salvation Army website for more details.
