CAMPBELLTOWN CITY · PDF fileovercoming the image suffered by these two ... Festival of Fisher’s Ghost Association with major support from ... Campbelltown City Council

CAMPBELLTOWN CITY COUNCIL

Committee Minutes Corporate Governance Committee Meeting held at 5.30pm on Tuesday, 7 December 2004. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Pecuniary Interests Conflict of Interest Other Disclosures

ITEM TITLE PAGE

1. COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING 4

1.1 Rebranding of Campbelltown/Camden Hospitals 4

1.2 2004 Post Event Festival of Fisher's Ghost 6

1.3 Christmas Displays 8

1.4 Business Tourism Familiarisation Tour Report, Communications and Marketing, December 2004 Council Meeting

10

2. CORPORATE STRATEGY AND SUPPORT 12

2.1 2004 Local Government Elections 12

2.2 2004-2005 Management Plan September Review 15

2.3 James Hardie Industries 17

3. FINANCIAL SERVICES 19

3.1 Financial Statements as at 30 September 2004 19

3.2 Investment Report 23

3.3 Monthly Rates Summary 27

3.4 Sundry Debtors 31

3.5 Workers Compensation Policies 35

4. HUMAN RESOURCES 45

4.1 Self Insurance Licence 45

5. INFORMATION MANAGEMENT AND TECHNOLOGY 49

No Reports this round. 49

6. CONFIDENTIAL ITEMS 49

No Reports this round. 49

10. GENERAL BUSINESS 50

10.1 Website Usage 50

Corporate Governance Committee Meeting 7 December 2004 Page 3

Minutes of the Corporate Governance Committee held on Tuesday, 7 December 2004 Present His Worship the Mayor, Councillor B Banfield

Councillor R Matheson (Chairperson) Councillor A Chanthivong Councillor S Chaytor Councillor S Dobson Councillor P Hawker Councillor A Rule Deputy General Manager - Mr B Daley Director City Works - Mr J Hely Director Planning and Environment - Ms G Connolly Acting Manager Communications and Marketing - Ms T Riley Acting Manager Corporate Strategy and Support - Mr B Clarence Manager Financial Services - Mr M Sewell Manager Human Resources - Mr J Dodd Manager Information Management and Technology - Mr C Gardner Manager Assets and Supply Services - Mr G Mitchell Manager Operations - Mr K Lynch Manager Property and Support Services - Mr P Holland Corporate Projects Coordinator - Mr I Hudson PC Training and Support - Ms J Spencer Executive Support - Mrs P Boyle

Apology (Dobson/Rule)

That the apology from Councillor Borg be received and accepted. CARRIED

Declarations of Interest There were no Declarations of Interest made at this meeting.


1. COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING

1.1 Rebranding of Campbelltown/Camden Hospitals

Reporting Officer

Deputy General Manager

Attachments

Nil

Purpose

To consider a suggestion to rebrand Campbelltown and Camden Hospitals as submitted at the last MACROC Board Meeting.

Report

At the recent MACROC Board Meeting held in Camden, the issue of consideration being given to the suggestion of changing the names of Campbelltown and Camden Hospitals was put forward. The issue was raised in response to the extensive media coverage that has been given to both hospitals over the past 12 to 18 months. In conjunction with the major initiatives being undertaken by the Health Department and the administration of the hospitals, it may be appropriate to consider a rebranding of the hospitals to coincide with these initiatives to assist in overcoming the image suffered by these two institutions. The proposal is to rename Campbelltown Hospital “Macarthur Hospital” and Camden Hospital to be named “Macarthur South Hospital". Whilst the proposal has some merit, it is felt that the rebranding through a name change to overcome an image problem is not seen to be the best method of overcoming the issues concerning our local hospitals. There can be no doubt the high level of commitment and care that is provided by the staff at the hospitals. The overall situation of NSW hospitals is an extremely complex matter and a simple name change would do little to resolve the many issues involved. It is recommended that the MACROC Board be advised that Council does not consider it appropriate to rebrand Campbelltown and Camden Hospitals.

Financial Impact

There are no financial implications for Council in this proposal.

Officer's Recommendation

That the MACROC Board be advised that Council does not consider it appropriate to rebrand Campbelltown and Camden Hospitals.


Committee’s Recommendation: (Dobson/Chaytor) That the Officer's Recommendation be adopted. CARRIED

Council Meeting 14 December 2004 (Matheson/Chaytor)

That the Officer’s recommendation be adopted.

Council Resolution Minute Number 318



1.2 2004 Post Event Festival of Fisher's Ghost

Reporting Officer

Acting Manager Communications and Marketing

Attachments

Nil

Purpose

The 2004 Festival of Fisher’s Ghost – the 48th annual festival - was held from 4 to 14 November. The Festival is overseen by the Festival of Fisher’s Ghost Association, a registered Company, and coordinated by Council. The Festival Association conducted a debrief for the event on Wednesday 24 November and overall feedback received was that the event was a success. This report serves to inform Council regarding the event and sponsorship.

Report

The 2004 Festival of Fisher’s Ghost was held from 4 to 14 November. A 10 day program of events was offered, with the two largest events being the popular Dumaresq Street Cinemas Street Parade and the Street Fair (held on consecutive Saturdays). The Festival is run by the Festival of Fisher’s Ghost Association with major support from Council. The Street Parade on Saturday 6 November was again a highlight of the Festival, with over 80 floats, walking and marching groups taking part along with a number of new entries. Queen Street was lined with spectators, demonstrating the community spirit of Campbelltown City. The Consul General of Japan, Mr Yasuaki Nogawa, officially opened the Street Parade. Campbelltown’s guests from our Sister City, Koshigaya, also shared in the festival as part of their visit to celebrate the 20th anniversary of our relationship. Also in recognition of this milestone, the Campbelltown-Koshigaya Sister City Association entered a replica of a traditional Japanese Spring Festival in the parade, and this excellent entry received the award for the best float. The following week, an estimated 20,000 people attended the Street Fair. The fair featured over 90 stalls, performances by local entertainers, and children’s entertainment groups such as the Star Girls and the ABC Bananas in Pyjamas. Once again, the ABC 702 supported the event and the ABC Trailer was set up in Lithgow Street Mall. This allowed attendees to take part in activities such as being filmed performing or reading the news. Local media - the Macarthur Advertiser (Campbelltown, Camden and Wollondilly), the Macarthur Chronicle, C91.3 and Macarthur Community Radio (MCR) - also provided support and promotion throughout the Festival. The Festival of Fisher’s Ghost website www.fishersghost.com.au assisted in ensuring information was readily available about the event, both locally and beyond. Entry forms, information about the festival and the history of Fisher’s Ghost was included on the website.

http://www.fishersghost.com.au/


The event also featured the introduction of new merchandise, which proved popular. A great deal of support was received from local emergency and community organisations, including the Police, St John Ambulance and SES. The business community also demonstrated great support for the Festival, contributing $25,750 in cash sponsorship (excluding the Fisher’s Ghost Art Award and Fisher’s Ghost Pro Am Sprint). Major festival sponsors were presented with a plaque and named on the official program. They include: Dumaresq Street Cinemas $10000 Campbelltown Catholic Club $7000 Telstra Countrywide $3500 Campbelltown Mall $2750 Macarthur Chronicle $1500 WIZARD Home Loans $550 Lollipops Playland and Café $450 A number of sponsors also supported the Craft Exhibition and Sale to a total of $1380. Extensive in-kind support was also received from local Media Sponsors - C91.3, the Macarthur Advertiser and the Macarthur Chronicle. MCR contributed a live broadcast during the Street Parade. Other in-kind sponsors included ABC 702, Alan Evans Jewelers, Macarthur Square, Eve's Florist and South Western Sydney Institute of TAFE. As well as local media, the Festival also received coverage in various metropolitan media. It appeared in the 48 hours section of the Sydney Morning Herald, was part of a feature about Campbelltown City in The Daily Telegraph (which also included an advertisement in the Sunday Telegraph) and interviews or promotions were broadcast on ABC 702, 2GB, WS FM, FM 96.1, and FM 88.7. The Festival was also promoted on the home page of the NSW Government website and Council’s website in the lead up to the event

Financial Impact

While final payments are yet to be made, indications are that the event will be within budget.


That the information be received and noted. Committee’s Recommendation: (Hawker/Dobson) That the Officer's Recommendation be adopted. CARRIED






1.3 Christmas Displays

Reporting Officer


Attachments

Nil

Purpose

To further enhance the Christmas Displays in the Campbelltown CBD.

Report

Council at its meeting on 16 November 2004 resolved: 1. That an urgent report be presented to Council on strategies and incentives to ensure that

Christmas displays in Queen Street are of the highest standard. 2. That this report recognise the importance of Christmas displays in revitalising Queen Street

and attracting visitors to Campbelltown. 3. That the report canvass options for Council setting a proactive example of excellent in

Christmas displays. Correspondence has also been received from the Campbelltown Main Street Association seeking an improvement in the Christmas displays undertaken by Council. Council, in 2003, purchased additional and new lighting arrangements for the displays not only in Campbelltown but also Ingleburn. These new lights and additions were well received by the general community. In response to Council's Resolution, extensive efforts have been made in the last few weeks to source additional lighting and a large imitation Christmas tree for a display within the Lithgow Street Mall. At the time of writing this report, it has proven difficult to be able to source these items but every effort is continuing to have these items available as soon as possible. Installation of the Christmas decorations at both Campbelltown and Ingleburn commenced 29 November 2004 with a wide range of lighting down the left hand side of Queen Street and Christmas banners being placed down the right hand side. A new Nativity scene has been acquired for the Civic Centre and additional lighting will be placed around the building periphery with the feasibility of installing fairy lights in the tree line in Queen Street also being examined. The Main Street Association through their Coordinator has also been requested to seek the cooperation of all shop owners and lessees within the Campbelltown CBD to provide a Christmas display in or on their premises.


To further enhance the Christmas Display Program in the future, it is proposed that a Coordination Committee made up of interested Councillors, members of Council's staff and the Main Street Association form a working party in early 2005 to formulate and plan strategies for Christmas 2005 and beyond. The introduction of an impressive Christmas display may lead to attracting visitors to Campbelltown and therefore assist in the revitalisation of Queen Street.

Financial Impact

Council currently budgets $30,000 for expenditure on Christmas displays. Additional displays will incur further costs but the benefits should outweigh this and efforts will be made to re-arrange funding priorities to accommodate the additional cost.


That Council continue to explore avenues seeking enhancement of the Christmas displays. Committee’s Recommendation: (Chaytor/Matheson) 1. That Council continue to explore avenues seeking enhancement of the Christmas displays. 2. That a report be presented giving options on projects that can be undertaken for the

enhancement of the Christmas displays. CARRIED


That the Committee’s recommendation be adopted.

Addendum: (Chaytor/Matheson)

3. That Council establish a working party to assist Council staff in preparation for the 2005 Christmas decorations.

4. That Councillors Kolkman, Oates, Rowell and Thomas form the working party with Councillor Thomas being Chair.


That the Committee’s recommendation incorporating the Addendum be adopted.


1.4 Business Tourism Familiarisation Tour Report, Communications and Marketing, December 2004 Council Meeting

Reporting Officer

Acting Manager Communications and Marketing

Attachments

Nil

Purpose

On 11 and 12 November, Campbelltown and Camden Visitor Information Centres worked collaboratively to coordinate a familiarisation tour for the business tourism market.

Report

The tour was part of the Greater Sydney Business Tourism Project, of which Council is a participant. This project, which has been operating now for two years, involves Councils and Tourist Associations from across Greater Sydney working together to attract business tourism to venues throughout metropolitan Sydney. Other initiatives of the Greater Sydney Business Tourism Project are the establishment of a website promoting greater Sydney for business tourism and conferences at www.sydneywideconferences.com.au and the coordination of a Greater Sydney stand at expos such as Sydney on Sale. A number of people involved directly in organising conferences and events, or operating guided tours, visited local tourism venues and attractions as part of the familiarisation. This included a visit to Sweeney’s at Scenic Hills, where filming for the mini-series Mary Bryant is now underway. Highly positive feedback was received from participants. The familiarisation tour highlighted the unique venues and attractions available in the Macarthur region. Although Sydney is one of the most visited cities in the world, many visitors are not aware of the options and opportunities outside Sydney CBD, including regions such as Macarthur. Councils and Tourist Associations throughout Greater Sydney, including Bankstown, Blacktown, Hawkesbury, the Hills District, Parramatta, Penrith Valley, Sydney Olympic Park, Sutherland and Macarthur, have been working together to remedy this situation through the Greater Sydney Tourism Project. While each Council or association promotes their own areas, this project utilises the combined strength of all organisations to increase awareness of, and visits to, Greater Sydney. Campbelltown and Camden attractions are listed on the Sydney Wide Conferences website as Macarthur to ensure that a variety of attractions are offered and visitors have a high degree of choice within our region. Individual operators are listed on the site for a relatively small fee. Currently operators listed on the site are Maclin Lodge, Mount Annan Botanic Garden, Historic Eschol Park House, Macarthur Grange Country Club, Camden Valley Golf Resort, Camden Civic Centre, Gledswood Homestead and Winery and Mowbray Park. Wollondilly operators are able to be included on the site as part of Macarthur.

http://www.sydneywideconferences.com.au/


The familiarisation visited Airborne Aviation, Mount Annan Botanic Garden, Maclin Lodge Motel, Macarthur Grange Country Club, Gledswood Homestead and Winery, Camden Civic Centre, Eschol Park House, Sweeney’s at Scenic Hills and The Barn restaurant. Due to the generosity of our local operators, the itinerary included a joy flight over the region, lunch and a tour at Mount Annan Botanic Garden, overnight accommodation, professional golf tips, wine tasting, an adventure wagon ride, a bush barbecue, and a visit to the set of Mary Bryant at Sweeney’s at Scenic Hills. Feedback from tour participants included that they “thoroughly enjoyed the two day experience”, that “the region has distinct possibilities for many clients” and they “plan to utilise a number of the facilities in the near future”.

Financial Impact

The multiplier effect of tourism has a substantial benefit to the economy of Macarthur and should be promoted wherever possible.


That the information be noted. Committee’s Recommendation: (Banfield/Dobson) That the Officer's Recommendation be adopted. CARRIED






2. CORPORATE STRATEGY AND SUPPORT

2.1 2004 Local Government Elections

Reporting Officer


Attachments

Copy of Working Party’s Recommendations

Purpose

The Local Government Association of NSW and the Shires Association of NSW have undertaken an enquiry into the conduct of the 2004 Local Government Elections.

Report

Following the 2004 Local Government Elections, the Associations undertook an enquiry into the conduct of the elections. 126 submissions were received including 46 from councils and 80 from individuals. The submissions were considered by a Joint Working Party from both Associations and the recommendations of the Working Party have been endorsed by the Executive of both Associations. The 4 areas considered by the Working Party were: 1. Cost of running the election; 2. Conduct of the elections by the State Electoral Office (SEO); 3. The voting system; 4. Whether the SEO or councils should conduct elections. A copy of the Working Party’s recommendations are outlined in the attachment. The recommendations have been forwarded to the Minister for Local Government and the State Electoral Commissioner and a meeting will be held between the relevant parties in the near future to further explore the recommendations.

Financial Impact

Depending on the changes to the current conduct of Local Government Elections, there may be some financial benefit to Council.


That the information be noted.


Committee’s Recommendation: (Chaytor/Chanthivong) That Council not endorse the recommendations and write to the Local Government and Shires Association and the Minister for Local Government expressly noting Council's non-endorsement. CARRIED






ATTACHMENT 1


2.2 2004-2005 Management Plan September Review

Reporting Officer

Manager Corporate Strategy and Support

Attachments

Financial Statement - distributed under separate cover

Purpose

Council’s Management Plan for 2004/2005 was adopted on 22 June 2004 following public exhibition and the consideration of submissions. In accordance with the Local Government Act a quarterly report is required to be submitted to Council on the status of each objective detailed in the plan.

Report

The Management Plan for 2004/2005 details the proposed activities and strategic direction for the next year and beyond in a document based on an understanding of the concerns, priorities and aspirations of the community. The Management Plan is an important document that sets the direction for Council and governs the activities of Council. The Plan sets the objectives, strategies and measures that will be pursued in the coming year and beyond in the context of the 5 functional Divisions of Council which are:

1. Office of the General Manager

2. City Works

3. Community Services

4. Corporate Governance

5. Planning and Environment

As with previous Management Plans, Council in developing and implementing this Plan for the City has adopted clearly defined operating principles based on consultation, access, quality and cost effective service delivery. These principles will provide the basis for a sustainable cultural change within the Council organisation and will be an integral component of the way Council deals with its community. Council remains committed to pursuing continuous improvement in the quality and effectiveness of the services delivered and facilities managed. Council will review the most efficient and effective methods in the provision of services. Whether as a direct provider or as a planner and manager of service provision Council will ensure an appropriate balance is maintained between service standards and costs. A detailed summary outlining the strategies and actions, and current status of each objective set out in the Management Plan is included in the September Financial Statement Q1 Booklet distributed to each Councillor.


A number of major projects were commenced or completed during the September quarter and they include: • Art Gallery progressing according to schedule • Fishers Gig • Arrive Alive • Social Plan adopted by Council • Cultural Plan adopted by Council • Campbelltown 2025 Looking Forward adopted by Council • Wedderburn Road embankment stabilisation and environmental works completed • Macquarie Fields, village improvement work commenced • Clifford Walk, Ingleburn cycleway/footpaths completed • Leumeah Station, car parking works stage three underway, hardstand parking for 250

vehicles completed • Public Art Masterplan nearing completion • WorkCover Audit successfully completed • Business Software Solutions - implementation program nearing completion • Review Group with a Consultant commenced studies in five areas with a view for

completion in March 2005 • Website redevelopment nearing completion • Marketing and Communication Strategy Draft nearing completion to be presented to

Council early 2005 • Financial Reports completed with an unqualified audit. • Council's Annual General Meeting held. • Major training program for Business Software implementation nearing completion • OH&S System received and adopted in conjunction with WorkCover implementation

Financial Impact

Financial Impacts are dealt with in the Financial Statement.


That the information be noted Committee’s Recommendation: (Banfield/Rule) That the Officer's Recommendation be adopted. CARRIED






2.3 James Hardie Industries

Reporting Officer


Attachments

Nil

Purpose

To consider the possible boycott of James Hardie Products.

Report

At the recent Local Government Conference held in Armidale, the following Resolution was passed: 1. That the Local Government Association of NSW condemn the actions of James Hardie

Industries in the strongest possible terms for its attempts to avoid funding the legitimate claims of asbestos victims.

Until such time as James Hardie Industries convinces the Local Government Association that it has met its obligations to current asbestos victims, and has provided for future asbestos victims, the Assocation's policy be: a. All existing contractors working on local government projects not purchase or use James

Hardie products.

b. New contractors not use any James Hardie products on local government projects.

c. NSW Councils not purchase any new James Hardie products, except where an existing Council contract requires that.

d. The Association obtain legal advice on behalf of member councils wishing to implement the above policy.

e. The Association write to James Hardie Industries informing them of its decision to boycott their products and the reason for the boycott.

2. This conference endorses the establishment of a working party of the Association with

representation from elected representatives, the Asbestos Diseases Foundation of Australia, the Asbestos Removalists Contractors Association, the Demolition Contractors Association, the Labor Council of NSW and the Construction Forestry Mining Energy Union to develop a comprehensive policy to better regulate contractors and assist in education of the contractors and home renovators involved in demolition, renovation and refurbishment involving asbestos.

3. That the resolution be referred to the National General Assembly of Local Government." The National General Assembly of Local Government considered this issue at its Assembly recently held in Canberra and passed the following motion:


"That the National General Assembly of Local Government condemns the actions of James Hardie Industries in the strongest possible terms for not accepting responsibility to fully fund the legitimate claims brought by asbestos victims against its former subsidiaries. The Assembly calls on James Hardie Industries to adequately provide for current and future asbestos victims. Further, councils and contractors are encouraged to review product availability from the competitors of James Hardie Industries and to include as part of their criteria of choice: a. the respective corporate reputations of those supplier; and b. the relative acceptance of those suppliers in delivering secure occupational and health

outcomes for victims of industrial injury. Councils are encouraged to review policies around their employees, local workers and residents who have, or may come, in contact with asbestos during the course of their duties. The General Assembly calls on James Hardie Industries to meet with the ALGA Executive to discuss appropriate solutions to local government's concerns as expressed by Assembly delegates, and Request ALGA to inform United Cities and Local Government of this position and seek their support internationally." Council may wish to indicate its intentions in considering the above resolutions however, it may be more appropriate to await the legal advice sought by the New South Wales Local Government Association in dealing with member Councils wishing to implement this policy.

Financial Impact

Council does not directly purchase materials from James Hardie Industries at this stage. This type of work is usually carried out by contractors and there may be additional costs associated with contractors seeking alternative products and where appropriate, testing of any alternative materials would be required prior to use on Council works.


That Council await the legal advice sought by the Association prior to a decision on this matter. Committee’s Recommendation: (Chanthivong/Rule) That the Officer's Recommendation be adopted. CARRIED






3. FINANCIAL SERVICES

3.1 Financial Statements as at 30 September 2004

Reporting Officer

Manager Financial Services

Attachments

Financial Statement Summary (provided under separate cover)

Purpose

A quarterly review is conducted on the progress of the original budget allocated to each program and the projected annual financial position. The quarterly financial review is presented for Council's consideration.

Report

In accordance with Part 2 of the Local Government Regulations (Financial Management), Council is required to review the income and expenditure adopted in the 2004/2005 budget. Authorisation is now sought for the reallocation of both income and expenditure votes to accommodate the changed circumstances that have occurred. Recommended movements to income and expenditure levels are summarised in the attachment and details of major items are listed in the body of this report for Council's information. As reported in the budget papers, the original budget surplus was $500,000. In this review that level of surplus has been maintained, and it is recommended that the surplus be retained to increase the level of working funds, as per Council's commitment to increase the level of unrestricted cash. Council's current budget positions is as follows:

Total projected expenditure on present trends $91,557,552

Total projected income on present trends $92,057,552

Projected surplus/(deficit) as indicated in the original budget for the year $500,000

Projected surplus/(deficit) for the year $500,000 During the July to September quarter, there were a number of requests by Council to include adjustments in this financial review. Those requests have been dealt with as follows:


Account 1-1875-000 - Youth Performing Arts - $20,000 Increase in expenditure Allocation for Campbelltown Youth Performance Outreach Program - As per Council's Community Services Committee report item 3.5 of 29 June 2004, an allocation of $20,000 has been included in the Community Services budget for the ongoing implementation of the Campbelltown Youth Performance Outreach Program. Account 1-1935-000 - Department Sport and Recreation Capital - $26,000 Increase in expenditure Contribution to the relocation of Campbelltown Cobras Soccer Club - As per Council's Community Services Committee report item 4.2 of 24 August 2004, an allocation of $26,000 has been included to support the upgrade of Hurley Park and the relocation of the Cobras Soccer Club to Hurley Park. Account 1-1946-000 - Sports Liaison Sub Committee - $5,000 Increase in expenditure Allocation for Sports Liaison Sub Committee - As per Council's Corporate Governance Committee report item 3.9 of 27 July 2004, an allocation of $5,000 has been included in the Sport and Recreational Program budget to assist in recommendations adopted by Council. Account 1-2435-000 - Tree planting - $10,000 Increase in expenditure Allocation for Spring Planting at Child Care Centres - As per Council's Planning and Environment Committee report item 3.9 of 27 July 2004, an allocation of $10,000 has been included for the planting of shrubs along the fences that have been erected around Council's Child Care Centres. These requests have been allowed for without affecting the service levels of other programs, and maintaining the original budget surplus. These additional funds have been offset by an increase in Planning fees and additional rate income. Details of other major adjustments to accounts are listed below: Account 1-1155-104 - Land Use-Legal Costs Recovered - $50,000 Increase in income Account 1-1210-104 - Development Assess-Legal Serv - $100,000 Increase in expenditure Council's recent successful legal action in various planning matters has resulted in this increase in income over the amount that was originally budgeted. This has been offset by the increase in legal costs associated with an increase in legal activity. Account 1-1190-000 - Off Street Parking - $60,000 increase in income Account 1-1195-000 - On Street Parking - $60,000 Increase in income The original budget allocation for parking fines was kept at a similar level to the previous year, however on present trends the total income for the year is forecast to exceed the budgeted amount. Account 1-1785-800 - Art Works Capital - $30,000 Increase in Expenditure An additional contribution towards the Tom Bass art sculpture is required to bring the project to completion.


Account 1-2265-000 - Financial Assist Grant-Rds Comp - $22,400 Increase in Income Account 1-3380-000 - Financial Assist Grant-Equal Comp - $152,100 Decrease in Income As per Council's Corporate Governance Committee Report item 3.4 of 24 August 2004, the amount received for the Financial Assistance grant was less than originally budgeted. Account 1-2395-815 - SES Headquarters Major Plant - $32,500 Increase in expenditure Account 1-2870-810 - Fleet Vehicles - $86,400 Increase in expenditure As per Council's City Works Committee Report item 5.3 of 24 August 2004, Council's 22 seater community bus is due for replacement this year under our Plant Replacement Program and the SES has suggested that this bus would be an ideal replacement for the SES bus. It is proposed to sell one of Council's Community buses to the SES and purchase a new community bus. The SES purchase will be fully funded by the trade in of its old bus and a contribution from the SES plant reserve. The cost of the new community bus will be partly offset by the sale of the old bus to the SES and a contribution from the community bus plant reserve, leaving a $15,000 shortfall, which will be funded from adjustments within this financial review. Account 1-3425-612 - Residential Rates - $173,700 Increase in income The amount levied through rates is greater than that originally budgeted. This is mainly due to Landcom properties that were non-rateable at the time of the budget, that have since become rateable properties. Financial Impact The current financial review will retain the original budget surplus of $500,000 if approved by Council. This level of surplus has been achieved while still providing for Council requests and other variations that have been required. This has been achieved mainly through an increase in planning fees and rate income. Had the additional funds not been received, then other programmes may have had to be revised to fund the requested works and variations listed above. In considering these adjustments, Council's financial position is fair and continues to improve the level of working funds.


That the adjustment of the income and expenditure allocations contained in the September 2004 financial review be adopted. Committee’s Recommendation: (Chaytor/Dobson) That the Officer's Recommendation be adopted. CARRIED







3.2 Investment Report

Reporting Officer


Attachments

1. Investment Return Report - October 2. Graphical Performance Analysis

Purpose

Council invests any surplus funds that become available through the financial instrument designated by the Ministerial Order from the Department of Local Government. The Local Government Act, 1993 and Financial Management Regulations require a monthly investment report to be presented to Council.

Report

Council's investment portfolio as at 31 October 2004 stood at approximately $39.4 million. The funds are currently being managed both by Council staff and Fund Managers and the annualised returns are as follows (on a percentage per annum basis).

October

Alliance Capital Cash Enhanced Trust 5.39 %

Treasury Corp 5.32 %

Local Government Financial Services 5.44 %

Council managed funds 5.52 % Macquarie Bank 5.64 %

Local Government Ethical Fund 5.67 %

Benchmark: 90 Day Bank Bill Index 5.41 % Financial Impact The monthly weighted average return for the entire portfolio of $39.4 million was 5.48% which is equivalent to the performance of BBSW benchmark. Direct investments managed by Council staff achieved a weighted average return of 5.55% for the month. There is no proposed change to policy settings at this stage, however investment opportunities are continually reviewed to achieve the maximum returns possible. It is important to have diversification within the portfolio to benchmark the performance of different types of investments while achieving the 90 day benchmark and the original budget amount.



That the information be noted. Committee’s Recommendation: (Chanthivong/Dobson) That the Officer's Recommendation be adopted. CARRIED






ATTACHMENT 1


ATTACHMENT 2

MANAGED FUNDS PERFORMANCE TO BENCHMARK FOR 12 MONTH PERIOD

Alliance Cash Enhanced Fund

2.53

3.54

4.55

5.56

6.5

Nov

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Dec

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Mar

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Apr

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June July

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BBSW

Local Government Investment Service Cash Facility

2.53

3.54

4.55

5.56

6.5

Nov

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Mar

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Apr

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June July

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BBSW

Macquarie Diversified Treasury Fund

2.53

3.54

4.55

5.56

6.5

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Mar

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Apr

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June July

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BBSW

T Corp Cash Plus Facility

2.53

3.54

4.55

5.56

6.5

Nov

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Janu

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Mar

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Apr

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May

June July

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eBBSW

Local Government Ethical Fund

2.503.003.504.004.505.005.506.006.50

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June July

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BBSW

Scope of Investments

Direct Investments

57%Offset Investments

9%

Managed Funds34%


3.3 Monthly Rates Summary

Reporting Officer


Attachments

1. Monthly Rates Summary 2. Actual to Budget results

Purpose

The 2004/2005 Rates and Charges levy and monthly cash collections result as at 31 October 2004.

Report

Rates and Charges levied to the end of October were $58,053,476 compared to the original 2004/2005 budgeted income of $57,758,000. An adjustment will be made in the September Financial Review. The additional income has been identified through the rating of supplementary valuation lists supplied by the Valuer General's Department, primarily relating to outstanding Landcom properties not identified during the 2003/2004 financial year. Rates and Charges collected to the end of October totalled $19,310,790. In percentage terms this amount represents 32.33% of all rates and charges due to be paid. In comparison, the amount collected in the same period last year was 36.45%. The reduction in collections continues to be a result of the first two instalments becoming due on 30 November 2004. Rate instalment reminders for the November instalment were issued 19 October 2004. A total of 39,358 ratepayers were issued with an instalment notice. This figure represents an increase of 1,845 over the number issued for the same period last year. Debt recovery action is limited to arrears brought forward on 1 July 2004 and involved the service of 40 Statements of Liquidated Claim and 123 Writs of Execution. An extensive review of recovery procedures is to be undertaken following the November instalment due date with a view to reduce the increase in outstanding accounts. Council staff continue to monitor and assist those ratepayers experiencing difficulty in settling their accounts. Ratepayers who have purchased property since the information used in compiling annual notices received advice of the amount due in the form of a "Notice to New Owner" letter. During the month, 56 property owners were advised of the amount in annual Council rates and the balance due on their account following receipt of settlement advice from the Land Titles Office. Financial Impact The late issue of notices has affected Council's ability to maintain debt recovery. This has also had the effect of reducing interest that can be charged on outstanding amounts. Budgeted targets will be reviewed. The end of November will see Council increase activity in relation to debt recovery with a view to reducing outstanding percentages.



That the information be noted. Committee’s Recommendation: (Banfield/Hawker) That the Officer's Recommendation be adopted. CARRIED






ATTACHMENT 1

RATES SUMMARY

STATEMENT OF ALL OUTSTANDING RATES AND EXTRA CHARGES

RATE - CHARGENET ARREARS

1/7/2004

NET LEVY FOR

YEAR

LESS PENSION

REBATES

TOTAL

RECEIVABLE

LESS CASH

COLLECTED

NET AMOUNT

DUE

POSTPONED

RATES

GROSS AMOUNT

DUE

RESIDENTIAL 557,074.91 32,277,166.74 944,923.62 31,889,318.03 9,739,187.53 22,150,130.50 148,768.61 22,298,899.11

BUSINESS 201,123.94 10,447,776.30 10,648,900.24 4,111,684.50 6,537,215.74 6,537,215.74

FARMLAND 4,845.47 297,726.18 422.07 302,149.58 75,863.19 226,286.39 63,942.00 290,228.39

CBD 13,756.48 391,449.27 405,205.75 149,953.00 255,252.75 255,252.75

LOAN 248,785.76 3,861,351.04 95,029.16 4,015,107.64 1,287,104.12 2,728,003.52 59,245.64 2,787,249.16

MAIN STREET 7,616.27 418,628.75 426,245.02 142,735.66 283,509.36 283,509.36

SUB-TOTAL 1,033,202.83 47,694,098.28 1,040,374.85 47,686,926.26 15,506,528.00 32,180,398.26 271,956.25 32,452,354.51

EXTRA CHARGES 471,398.60 137,386.66 608,785.26 43,677.22 565,108.04 37,021.47 602,129.51

TOTAL 1,504,601.43 47,831,484.94 1,040,374.85 48,295,711.52 15,550,205.22 32,745,506.30 308,977.72 33,054,484.02

GARBAGE 804,516.69 10,988,554.59 333,477.48 11,459,593.80 3,760,585.04 7,699,008.76 7,699,008.76

SANITARY -72.00 1,320.00 1,248.00 0.00 1,248.00 1,248.00

GRAND TOTAL 2,309,046.12 58,821,359.53 1,373,852.33 59,756,553.32 19,310,790.26 40,445,763.06 308,977.72 40,754,740.78


ATTACHMENT 2

COMPARISON OF BUDGET TO ACTUAL

DESCRIPTION ORIGINAL REVISED ACTUAL BALANCE % RAISEDBUDGET BUDGET STILL REQD.

RESIDENTIAL 31,888,200 31,888,200 32,158,593 (270,393)

(259,638)

(71,881)

(4)

(576,382)

(1,420,000) (1,420,000) (1,373,852) (46,148)

(209,117)

(86,812)

(295,476)

100.85%

BUSINESS 10,250,600 10,250,600 10,510,238 102.53%

FARMLAND 323,300 323,300 297,774 25,526 92.10%

C.B.D 394,100 394,100 394,093 7 100.00%

LOAN 3,806,700 3,806,700 3,878,581 101.89%

MAIN STREET 419,500 419,500 419,504 100.00%

TOTALS 47,082,400 47,082,400 47,658,782 101.22%

INTEREST CHARGES 146,000 146,000 28,584 117,416 19.58%

LEGAL COSTS RECOVERED 378,000 378,000 107,384 270,616 28.41%

PENSIONERS W/O S 575 96.75%

PENSIONERS SUBSIDY 781,000 781,000 755,619 25,381 96.75%

SUB TOTAL 46,967,400 46,967,400 47,176,517 100.45%

GARBAGE INCOME 10,788,900 10,788,900 10,875,712 100.80%

SANITARY INCOME 1,700 1,700 1,248 452 73.41%

GRAND TOTALS 57,758,000 57,758,000 58,053,476 100.51%

COLLECTIONS AS A % OF: TOTAL TOTAL TOTAL TOTALRECEIVABLE LEVIED RECEIVABLE LEVIED

RESIDENTIAL 30.54% 30.17% EXTRA CHARGES 7.17% 31.79%

BUSINESS 38.61% 39.35% GARBAGE 32.82% 34.22%

FARMLAND 25.11% 25.48% SANITARY 0.00% 0.00%

C.B.D 37.01% 38.31%

LOAN 32.06% 33.33%

MAIN STREET 33.49% 34.10%

TOTAL RATESALL RATES 32.52% 32.51% & CHARGES 32.32% 32.83%


3.4 Sundry Debtors

Reporting Officer


Attachments

1. Debtors summary 2. Ageing of sundry debtors

Purpose

A report detailing the amounts outstanding by fund and age in sundry and miscellaneous debts for the month of October 2004.

Report

The amount due to Council as at 30 October 2004 is $1,047,353. The outstanding position has increased by $411,009 since 30 September 2004 as a result of invoicing delayed by corporate software changes being brought up to date. The ratio of outstanding debts to current invoices has decreased from 43.3% in October 2003 to the current level of 36.6%. During the month, 295 invoices were raised totalling $1,089,589. Of these the most significant have been in the following areas: The corporate administration of fleet vehicle sales represents the majority of Corporate Administration debts with $394,476 in sales being invoiced during the month. The balance consists mostly of debts raised for matters associated with the Fishers Ghost Festival and Sarah Allen benefit night. Government Grants raised for the month totalled $458,952. The majority of these grants are due by the Roads and Traffic Authority for the regional roads grant - $272,030 and Pedestrian Access Mobility Plan - $16,500. An amount of $132,000 has been invoiced to the Department of Transport and Regional Services for the Sustainable Regions milestone 3 program. Receipts to the value of $678,580 were received during the month, the most notable have been in: Corporate Admin - $395,446 Converted Data (debts converted to the new financial system) - $202,635 Efforts are continually being maintained to reduce the outstanding balance and appropriate action in accordance with Councils policies is being taken to assist in recovery.


Financial Impact

It is important to monitor the turnover and duration of the sundry debtors. Ageing debtors need to be monitored to ensure collectability. During audit, the external auditor does make recommendations to write off certain debtors due to the length of time these accounts remain outstanding.


That the information be noted. Committee’s Recommendation: (Banfield/Dobson) That the Officer's Recommendation be adopted. CARRIED






ATTACHMENT 1

DEBTORS SUMMARY 1 OCTOBER 2004 to 31 OCTOBER 2004

DEBTOR TYPE/DESCRIPTION ARREARS AT RAISED RECEIVED BALANCE AT % DEBT30/09/2004 THIS PERIOD THIS PERIOD 31/10/2004 RATIO

Corporate Administration 2,147 445,376 395,446 52,077 4.97%Converted Data 549,988 0 202,635 347,353 33.16%Abandoned Motor Vehicles 563 0 563 0 0.00%Child Care Debts 0 10,365 0 10,365 0.99%Council Dwellings 0 0 0 0Community Service Activities 0 0 0 0Community Bus 0 136 136 0 0.00%Tennis Court Hire 0 3,373 2,628 746 0.07%Sportsground and Field Hire 0 0 0 0Government Grants 0 458,952 1,791 457,161 43.65%Public Hall Hire 0 16,639 5,048 11,591 1.11%Health Services 0 6,395 2,723 3,672 0.35%Land and Building Rentals 89 24,222 12,187 12,124 1.16%Library Fines 0 0 0 0Healthy Lifestyles 0 11,954 584 11,370 1.09%Pool Hire 11,738 564 5,657 6,645 0.63%Road and Footpath Restoration 22,297 43,864 17,079 49,082 4.69%Section 530A Committees 0 0 0 0Shop and Office Rentals 0 36,770 21,189 15,580 1.49%Various Sundry Items 19,347 11,458 5,405 25,400 2.43%Vehicle Crossings 0 0 0 0Waste Collection Services 0 19,520 5,509 14,011 1.34%Deferred Debtors 30,177 0 0 30,177 2.88%

636,344 1,089,589 678,580 1,047,353 100%

0.00%0.00%

0.00%

0.00%

0.00%

0.00%


ATTACHMENT 2 AGEING OF SUNDRY DEBTOR ACCOUNTS - 31 October 2004

Description Current Charges Total 30 Days Total 60 DaysTotal 90 And Over

Days Balance Due

Corporate Administration 52,016 61 0 0 $52,077Converted Data -42,335 6,600 80,388 302,700 $347,353Abandoned Motor Vehicles 0 0 0 0 $0Child Care Debts 10,365 0 0 0 $10,365Council Dwellings 0 0 0 0 $0Community Service Activities 0 0 0 0 $0Community Bus 0 0 0 0 $0Tennis Court Hire 746 0 0 0 $746Sportsground and Field Hire 0 0 0 0 $0Government Grants 457,161 0 0 0 $457,161Public Hall Hire 11,531 60 0 0 $11,591Health Services 3,672 0 0 0 $3,672Land and Building Rentals 12,114 10 0 0 $12,124Library Fines 0 0 0 0 $0Healthy Lifestyles 11,370 0 0 0 $11,370Pool Hire 730 5,916 0 0 $6,645Road and Footpath Restoration 43,864 5,218 0 0 $49,082Section 530A Committees 0 0 0 0 $0Shop and Office Rentals 15,580 0 0 0 $15,580Various Sundry Items 10,158 15,241 0 0 $25,400Vehicle Crossings 0 0 0 0 $0Waste Collection Services 14,011 0 0 0 $14,011Deferred Debtors 30,177 0 0 0 $30,177

631,159 33,106 80,388 302,700 $1,047,353


3.5 Workers Compensation Policies

Reporting Officer


Attachments

1. Workers Compensation Policy 1.4.13 2. Workers Compensation Claim Policy 1.4.17 3. Initial Notifications and Provisional Liability Policy 1.4.16 4. Occupational Rehabilitation Policy 1.4.11 5. Injury Management Program (to be tabled)

Purpose

Council's Workers Compensation Policies will now incorporate Council's Injury Management Program.

Report

Council has a number of Policies in regard to Workers' Compensation: 1. Workers' Compensation Policy No. 1.4.13 2. Workers' Compensation Claim Policy 1.4.17 3. Initial Notifications and Provisional Liability Policy No. 1.4.16 4. Occupational Rehabilitation No. 1.4.11 These Policies currently contain various elements of Council's Injury Management Program as related documents. As a result of a recent WorkCover inspection, it was suggested that rather than separate the various elements of the injury Management Program, that each Policy incorporate the overall program. The opportunity was also taken to completely review the Injury Management Program to ensure that it meets current legislative requirements. Whilst the Policies themselves have not changed, because the related documents associated with the Policy have been altered, the Policies need to be again adopted by Council and are submitted for Council's consideration. The Injury Management Program will be tabled at the meeting and copies will be made available to any interested Councillors if requested.


1. That Workers Compensation Policy 1.4.13 be amended to include Council's Injury Management Program as supporting documentation.

2. That Workers Compensation Claim Policy 1.4.17 be amended to include Council's Injury Management Program as supporting documentation.


3. That Initial Notifications and Provisional Liability Policy 1.4.16 be amended to include Council's Injury Management Program as supporting documentation.

4. That Occupational Rehabilitation Policy 1.4.11 be amended to include Council's Injury Management Program.

Committee’s Recommendation: (Chanthivong/Matheson) That the Officer's Recommendation be adopted. CARRIED






ATTACHMENT 1

Campbelltown City Council Policy Register Policy No 1.4.13

Policy Title Workers Compensation

File No 75843

Related Policies Workers Compensation Claim 1.4.17

Section Responsible Financial Services

Review Date 30 June 2006

Policy details may change prior to Review Date due to legislative changes etc, hence printed document details are current as at the stated print date. Print date: 2 December 2004.

Objectives To make sure that employees receive efficient, effective and equitable compensation for any work related illness or injury.

Policy Statement 1. Council must make sure that all documentation and posters are displayed on all notice

boards in all Council workplaces as per the legislation requirements of WorkCover. 2. Employees or their representative must notify their supervisor of any work related injury or

illness. Should there be any time loss or medical treatment sought then the Initial Notification form must be completed.

3. Supervisors and the injured worker must complete the relevant OH&S forms as stated in the OH&S policy and copy sent to the Workers Compensation Section.

4. All decisions and payments with respect to a claim for compensation will be made in accordance with legislation..

5. The injured worker is to provide a WorkCover medical certificate within 7 days from the request.

Policy Documentation

Document Number Document Title

D1416011 Injury Management Program

End of Policy Statement Adopted: Date: 18.3.1997 Minute No: 43 Last Reviewed: Date: 3.8.2004 Minute No: 190


ATTACHMENT 2


Policy Title Workers Compensation Claim

File No 118711

Related Policies Workers Compensation 1.4.13




Objectives Workers compensation provides injured workers with weekly payments to cover loss of earnings, payment of medical expenses and vocational rehabilitation expenses and where necessary, to assist them to return to work.

Policy Statement Obligations Campbelltown City Council’s obligations to commence injury management as described in Chapter 3 Workplace Injury Management and Workers Compensation Act 1998 are required. 1. To satisfy legislative requirements, Campbelltown City Council, workers and advisors will

obtain and provide information about the injury in a timely manner. 2. Campbelltown City Council is required to obtain certain information to make certain

assessments. 3. Campbelltown City Council will make sound decisions on the information available within

timeframes the law allows and keep those decisions up to date as new information is received.

4. Campbelltown City Council will record the reasons for decisions and sow that we have considered all relevant decisions.

5. Campbelltown City Council will arrange for all decisions not to pay a workers compensation claim to be reviewed by a suitably experienced person.

6. Campbelltown City Council to ensure that worker gives their consent to the collection, use and disclosure of personal and health information.

7. Campbelltown City Council is to ensure that the Commonwealth Privacy Law and the National Privacy Principles apply to the information collected and used for the purposes of handling the workers claim.


Policy Statement

1. Workers compensation benefits are payable when a worker formally lodges a workers compensation claim. This is when the worker suffers an injury or contracts a disease, which arises out of or in the course of their employment where the employment is a substantial contributing factor.

2. Benefits are also payable for injuries received on a normal journey to or from work (without interruption or diversion) or during an authorised recess, providing the workers did not expose themselves to any abnormal risk of injury.

3. The injured worker will have to make a claim for workers compensation if Campbelltown City Council asks the injured worker to make one or if the injured worker will require benefits that exceed entitlements covered under Provisional Liability or if payments have been stopped covered under Provisional Liability and the injured worker still thinks that they are entitled to more benefits.

4. Campbelltown City Council is to make sure that the person giving the information for workers compensation claim is guided through the process to make sure they give all the information required.

5. To ensure the prompt management of a worker’s injuries. 6. To ensure that a worker returns to work as soon as possible. 7. To give worker’s certainty and proper income support while they are incapacitated by work

injuries. 8. To facilitate timely and sound decision-making. 9. To reduce disputes. 10. To promptly resolve disputes if they happen.




End of Policy Statement Paul Tosi

General Manager Brenton Banfield

Mayor

Adopted: Date: 3.8.2004 Minute No: 190 Last Reviewed: Date: Minute No:


ATTACHMENT 3


Policy Title Initial Notifications and Provisional Liability

File No 112858

Related Policies




Objectives Provisional liability allows Campbelltown City Council as a Self-Insurer to make weekly wages and medical expenses payments without admitting liability. This enables Council to make early payments to the worker without delay, for a period of up to 12 weeks for time lost and $5,000.00 for medical expenses.

Policy Statement Obligations Campbelltown City Council’s obligations to commence injury management as described in Chapter 3 Workplace Injury Management and Workers Compensation Act 1998 are required by, and work in parallel with the provisional liability provision in, Part 3 Division 1 of that Act.

1. To satisfy legislative requirements, Campbelltown City Council, workers and advisors will obtain and provide information about the injury in a timely manner.

2. Campbelltown City Council is required to obtain certain information to make certain assessments.

3. Campbelltown City Council will make sound decisions on the information available within timeframes the law allows and keep those decisions up to date as new information is received.

4. Campbelltown City Council will record the reasons for decision and show that we have considered all relevant decisions.

5. Campbelltown City Council will arrange for all decisions not to pay provisional liability weekly payments to be reviewed by a suitably experienced person.

6. Campbelltown City Council to ensure that worker gives their consent to the collection, use and disclosure of personal and health information.


7. Campbelltown City Council is to ensure that the Commonwealth Privacy Law and the National Privacy Principles apply to the information collected and used for the purposes of handling the workers claim.

Policy Statement 1. An initial notification means the first notification of a workplace injury where the worker is

required to seek medical treatment or time off work. 2. Campbelltown City Council is to make sure that the person giving the information for an

initial notification is guided through the process to make sure they give all the information needed for the notification.

3. To ensure the prompt management of a worker’s injuries. 4. To ensure that a worker returns to work as soon as possible. 5. To give worker’s certainty and proper income support while they are incapacitated by work

injuries. 6. To facilitate timely and sound decision making. 7. To reduce disputes. 8. To promptly resolve disputes if they happen.


Document Number Document Title D141601 Injury Management Program

End of Policy Statement Paul Tosi

General Manager Brenton Banfield

Mayor

Adopted: Date: 5.8.2003 Minute No: 159 Last Reviewed: Date: 3.8.2004 Minute No: 190


ATTACHMENT 4


Policy Title Occupational Rehabilitation

File No 32244

Related Policies




Objectives 1. To assist an early, safe return to meaningful and productive work following injury or illness. 2. To establish that there is early, accurate medical assessment, with the involvement of those

persons deemed necessary to support the role of the treating medical practitioner. 3. To successfully integrate the injured or ill person back into the workforce. 4. To have effective Injury Management.

Policy Statement Introduction On 1 July 1987, the State Government implemented a new Workers' Compensation Act. Under this Act, all employers are required to establish a Return to Work Program with respect to policies and procedures for the rehabilitation (and if necessary, vocational re-education) of any injured/ill workers of the employer. In 1998 the Workplace Injury Management and Workers Compensation Act was proclaimed and introduce the concept of injury management practices. This program is to be renegotiated with management, staff and unions on a biannual basis. Last review date March 2000. It is Council's objective to provide occupational rehabilitation for all people who work for Council following injury or illness at the workplace. In this context rehabilitation is defined as "the restoration of those injured or ill to the fullest physical, mental, social, vocational or economical usefulness of which they are capable." Effective rehabilitation provides physical, psychological and financial benefits to people and minimises disruption to work and reduces costs. Process The rehabilitation process can involve any of the following components depending on the severity of case: 1. Medical - accurate diagnosis and prompt appropriate treatment by health professionals

aimed at maximising the rate and extent of recovery. 2. Vocational - provision of vocational services to enable incapacitated people to return

to work as soon as practicable, including vocational assessment and guidance where retraining may be indicated.


3. Social - to assist in restoring self-image, reducing stress associated with injury/illness and readjusting to society.

Guidelines Return to Work/Injury Management Officer Return to Work programs and Injury Management Plans will be managed by the designated workplace coordinator. Rehabilitation Treatment In consultation with the employee, supervisor and the Return to Work/Injury Management Coordinator, a plan will be developed for rehabilitation treatment. This treatment will be conducted where possible and reasonable for all staff. Return to Work/Injury Management Officer Duties 1. To ensure that effective Injury Management Plans are developed. 2. To ensure that occupational rehabilitation is commenced as soon as possible after any

work related injury or illness. 3. To communicate directly with injured/ill employees to ensure that they fully understand and

are able to participate in the rehabilitation progress. 4. To liaise with all parties involved in the rehabilitation procedure, including the injured

person, rehabilitation providers, treating medical practitioners, union and ensure that communication takes place in order to promote effective injury management and return to work.

Indicators for Implementing the Rehabilitation Process should be as follows: (a) Immediately in cases of injury or illness where absence is indicated on the WorkCover

certificate to be more than 5 days. (b) Where less than 5 days, the need for a program will be assessed if the employee does not

return to the place of duty on the nominated date. Suitable Duties Suitable duties are an essential part of the return to work program. Injured persons may be able to stay at work or return to work earlier if suitable duties are available. Such duties may require modification of work tasks or the work environment and reduced work hours. The following factors should be considered when offering suitable duties: 1. The duties must be carefully matched with the person's capabilities. Management must

provide the nominated treating doctor with as much job related information as possible. 2. Duties must be medically approved and certificates should include, in detail, what physical

activities the person can and cannot do. 3. Duties should be arranged between the nominated treating doctor, the injured person and

the Return to Work Coordinator, the injured person's direct supervisor and union representative (if required). A program should be produced in conjunction with the Injury Management Plan with regular review points leading up to normal duties.

4. The provision of suitable duties will not be provided on an unlimited and permanent basis unless: a) Such duties constitute a substantive position within the activity's normal

operations; b) Such a position is readily available, and c) The person is fully competent to fill the position. Examples of Suitable Duties Suitable duties may include work in areas such as Stores (stocktaking, delivery, VDU operators), Workshops (cleaning, driving), Bushfire (hazard control inspection), Construction and Maintenance (flagman's duties, painting posts, surveys or roads and minor investigation with survey work), Library - clerical work such as indexing, filing, VDU input), Parks and Reserves (garden maintenance) and General Administration (clerical - all departments).

Communication with the Injured/Ill Person It is essential for management to establish a continuing personal contact with people who are absent from work. Contact should be made as soon as practicable following injury or onset of serious illness to offer practical and moral support.


Written confirmation of management commitment to rehabilitation, including early return to work under medical guidance on selected alternative duties, should be forwarded to the injured/ill person as soon as possible. Details of the return to work plan and the injury management plan should be confirmed in writing and copies distributed to all those participating in the program. Return to Work A program for graduated return to work needs to be established to meet each person's needs. The following steps should be considered: 1. Set short and long term goals involving the injured/ill person and treating practitioners. 2. Establish a timetable for monitoring progress including medical review and upgrading of

duties when appropriate to meet long-term goals. 3. Ensure the injured/ill person and their supervisor clearly understand any work restriction or

physical limitations. Also, with whom problems should be discussed. 4. Provide appropriate training for any alternative duties that are unfamiliar to the injured

person. Confidentiality Rehabilitation records will consist of medical records, medical management communication and rehabilitation medical records return to work plans and injury management plans. All records will remain confidential. However, to facilitate rehabilitation, it is necessary for the Return to Work Coordinator to have access to confidential medical information. Such access should not be automatic but shall be discussed at the outset of rehabilitation where the injured employee would, in normal circumstances, be expected to consent to this. Any disagreement on this matter should be referred to the State Compensation board. It is recognised that some freedom of information is necessary and that a high level of responsibility exists to protect confidential medical information. Sequence of Events for Rehabilitation 1. Injury or Illness to be reported to Supervisor. 2. Supervisor to contact Return to Work Coordinator to make appointment for employee to

see Return to Work Coordinator. 3. Injured employee visits nominated treating doctor with an introductory letter from Return to

Work Coordinator. 4. Return to Work Coordinator consults with Employee, Manager, Supervisor and Nominated

Treating Doctor to devise effective Return to Work Plan and Injury Management Plan. 5. Regular review Return to Work Plans and Injury Management Plans. 6. Maintain regular contact with Injured Employee, Manager, and Supervisor. 7. If no effective return to work referral to a rehabilitation provider will commence.




End of Policy Statement Adopted: Date: 20.12.1998 Minute No: 532 Last Reviewed: Date: 31.8.2004 Minute No: 214


4. HUMAN RESOURCES

4.1 Self Insurance Licence

Reporting Officer

Manager Human Resources

Attachments

Work Cover Letter dated 22 November 2004.

Purpose

Council currently self insures for Workers' Compensation services. The provisions of the Self Insurance Licence require that WorkCover undertake regular audits of its Occupational Health and Safety Systems. The audit results indicate the length of time that the insurance licence will be granted.

Report

Council's OH&S System was found to be not performing at the level required in two of the elements selected for audit in June 2003. Accordingly, Council was considered to be performing at below the OH&S standards specified in the licence. Council was scheduled for a follow up audit by WorkCover's OH&S Audit Unit from 28 September to 1 October 2004 to further assess Council's level of performance in relation to the WorkCover Occupational Health and Safety Model. WorkCover licensing policy and licensing conditions specify that Council is expected to demonstrate an Occupational Health and Safety Management System that is operating at not less than the OH&S System Procedure Implementation Performance Level as defined in WorkCover's quality OH&S System Model. WorkCover have advised that following the field audit, Campbelltown was performing at a level equal to or better than the specified minimum performance level in each of the elements selected for audit. WorkCover were pleased to note the improvement and advised that a further audit will be conducted in September 2005 with a view of returning Campbelltown to the normal three yearly cycle if Council again performs satisfactorily. Council is currently addressing the Corrective Actions identified in our Occupational Health and Safety Action Plan so as to ensure that continued corporate commitment and resources are available to meet the time frames advised to WorkCover. The focus of the next 12 months for the OH&S Unit will be the continued implementation of many of the adopted procedures such as risk assessment, work method statements and safe operating procedures. This will be supported by a comprehensive training program for employees and supervisors.


Financial Impact

The retention of Council's Self Insurance Licence has major benefits to Council not only financially but also ensuring a high level of safety awareness by staff. These savings have been utilised to rectify a number of identified safety hazards and provided additional resources in the Occupational Health and Safety area.


That the information be noted. Committee’s Recommendation: (Rule/Chaytor) That the Officer's Recommendation be adopted. CARRIED






ATTACHMENT 1



5. INFORMATION MANAGEMENT AND TECHNOLOGY

No Reports this round.

6. CONFIDENTIAL ITEMS

No Reports this round.


10. GENERAL BUSINESS

10.1 Website Usage Committee’s Recommendation: (Chaytor/Chanthivong) That a report be presented at six monthly intervals showing the usage patterns for Council's website in particular statistics on access to the Business Paper. CARRIED





Documents

CAMPBELLTOWN CITY · PDF fileovercoming the image suffered by these two ... Festival of Fisher’s Ghost Association with major support from ... Campbelltown City Council