Latest News Archive 2007
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10-year celebration of Aboriginal Client Service Specialist Program
(13/12/07)
A program giving Aboriginal people better access to court services has marked its 10th birthday with a celebratory dinner in Sydney.
The Aboriginal Client Service Specialist (ACCS) program was established in 1997 and is now operating at 17 locations across NSW. All Aboriginal Client Service Specialists were acknowledged at the dinner held at Parramatta on 27 November 2007.
“The specialists break down barriers between Aboriginal people and the criminal justice system. The program also plays an important role in the development of community based initiatives that seek to divert Aboriginal people from becoming involved in the criminal justice system,” said Liz West, manager of Aboriginal programs at the Attorney General’s Department of NSW.
The department’s director of Court Services, Craig Smith presented Aboriginal Client Service Specialists with 10th anniversary commemorative badges at the dinner.
“This celebration is to acknowledge the hard work, commitment and dedication of all Aboriginal Client Service Specialists and to acknowledge the outcomes and achievements of the program over the past decade,” said Mr Smith.
Condobolin Aboriginal Client Service Specialist Kevin Griffiths recently received the prestigious Client Service Excellence Award at the 2007 Annual Achievement Awards of the Attorney General’s Department.
“Kevin’s commitment and skills have resulted in many Aboriginal clients having greater trust and faith in the criminal justice system,” said Brendan Thomas, Assistant Director General of the Attorney General’s Department.
“All ACSS officers have been instrumental in improving relationships between the criminal justice system and the Aboriginal community and in doing so, this has resulted in improved access and quality of services to Aboriginal clients”, said Mr Thomas.
The Aboriginal Client Service Specialist program is operating in Bateman’s Bay (Vicky Simon), Bourke (Narelle Orcher), Broken Hill (Colleen Cattermole), Campbelltown (Gary Stewart), Condobolin (Kevin Griffiths), Dubbo (Ros Barker), Downing Centre (Jennifer Stanford), Kempsey (Talia Condie), Lismore (Amanda Dodds), Mount Druitt (Annette Hennessey), Moree (Linden McGrady), Nowra (Michelle Wellington), Penrith (Paul Teerman), Taree (Wayne Paulson), Toronto (Keith Cochrane), Wagga Wagga (Llyod Atkinson) and Walgett (Vince Kennedy).
Don’t be the turkey at your Christmas party
(13/12/2007)
Employees should have fun at their end of year celebrations, but they should be careful not to go overboard, according to the President of the NSW Anti-Discrimination Board, Dr Stepan Kerkyasharian.
“Past experience shows that there is usually a rise in sexual harassment complaints after the Christmas party season,” Dr Kerkyasharian said. “This time of year is not called the ‘silly season’ for nothing. The combination of a social setting, a relaxed party atmosphere and alcohol can create high spirits which can quickly erode inhibitions and commonsense.”
“Office parties create an environment where people feel they can be less formal. However, informality is not a licence to set aside the rules in a society where discrimination and harassment is not allowed” he said.
Employees also need to watch what they say at work functions and parties. “A joke is a joke, but harassment and discrimination are not funny,” the Anti-Discrimination Board President said. “Jokes based on race, sexual preference or disability can be very hurtful at any time.”
“Employers should also be aware of their responsibilities in safeguarding employees’ welfare at work events,” he said.
“Social functions are considered to be an extension of the workplace and are treated as such under Anti-Discrimination legislation,” he said. “An employer can be liable if employees engage in inappropriate behaviour regardless of whether the party is held after hours or off-site. Staff have a right to feel safe and unthreatened at work and this extends to all social functions,” he said.
Anyone who feels they have been harassed or discriminated against can make a confidential enquiry by contacting the Anti-Discrimination Board’s Enquiry Service on (02) 9268 5544 or 1800 670 812 if you are ringing from outside Sydney, or (02) 9268 5522 for our TTY.
Employers who want to know about their rights and responsibilities in safeguarding employees’ welfare at work events can contact the Anti-Discrimination Board on (02) 9268 5544 for advice.
Dr Kerkysharian said “having said all that, on behalf of the Anti-Discrimination Board, I hope you have enjoyable end of year celebrations and wish you all a happy and relaxing holiday season”.
Code of conduct for Justices of the Peace
(06/12/07)
The NSW Government will make it easier for Justices of the Peace to renew their appointments every five years, NSW Attorney General John Hatzistergos announced on 4 December.
“Justices of the Peace voluntarily provide an important service to the community and the NSW Government will amend the law to ensure they don’t get caught up in red tape,” Mr Hatzistergos said.
“JPs will soon be able to renew their position through a simple administrative procedure, rather than requiring the approval of the NSW Governor.”
Mr Hatzistergos said the Government would also introduce a Justices of the Peace Code of Conduct to uphold the integrity of the office.
“The Code of Conduct will remind JPs they are to behave courteously, must not charge fees for their services and are obliged to notify the Attorney General’s Department if they are convicted of an offence or declared bankrupt.”
Mr Hatzistergos said an Acceptable Usage Policy would be published on the Justices of the Peace website (www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/jp), to protect JPs from being exploited.
“The policy will help ensure users of the Justices of the Peace register behave reasonably and don’t overburden JPs with requests or contact them at unreasonable hours,” Mr Hatzistergos said.
The improvements to the JP system follow a review of the Justices of the Peace Act 2002, which abolished lifetime appointments.
“Under the old lifetime appointments system, JPs were harder to find because they didn’t always inform the Department when they retired or moved premises,” Mr Hatzistergos said.
“The new system has enabled the Department to compile a more accurate register and anyone can now visit the Justices of the Peace website and find contact details for a JP in their area.”
Aboriginal children’s book wins crime prevention award
(30/11/07)
A groundbreaking activity book that teaches Indigenous children about their right to a safe family environment has won an award at the 2007 NSW Violence against Women Prevention Awards.
The Our Kids: Stay Safe, Stay Strong Children’s Activity Book received an award in the “Prevention Project” category, during a ceremony at Governor Macquarie Tower in Sydney today.
The NSW Minister for Community Services Kevin Greene presented the award to NSW Aboriginal Justice Advisory Council (AJAC) Executive Officer, Terry Chenery.
Mr Chenery said the activity book, developed by AJAC, aims to break intergenerational patterns of violence in Aboriginal communities, by encouraging children to speak out and to develop protective behaviours.
“Violence is not part of Indigenous culture and this book uses pictures and storytelling to explain to Aboriginal children the importance of a safe and happy home,” Mr Chenery said.
“If children can identify from an early age that family violence is unacceptable, they may be less likely to become a victim or commit violence in the future when they are raising a family of their own.”
Mr Chenery said the activity book was the first of its kind to be specifically tailored to Indigenous children.
“Until now, there has been a lack of culturally appropriate information for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, particularly in the area of domestic violence,” Mr Chenery said.
The activity book, which was launched in September, has been distributed throughout NSW to family violence counsellors and specialists in the judiciary, education, health, police and child protection sectors.
“The early feedback we’ve received suggests the book is making a difference. I hope it will continue to inspire children to express themselves if they have witnessed or been a victim of domestic violence,” said Jacqueline Gerber, activity book author and AJAC policy advisor.
The Violence Against Women Prevention Awards form part of the NSW 16 Days of Activism to Stop Violence Against Women, which commenced on November 25 on the International Day to Eliminate Violence Against Women, and conclude on World Human Rights Day December 10.
The Our Kids: Stay Safe, Stay Strong Children’s Activity Book activity book is supported by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts Board.
BOCSAR quarterly update
(27/11/07)
The NSW Recorded Crime Statistics September 2007 quarterly report has been released by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR).
The report's summary of the trends in the 17 major crime categories, reveals only steal from motor vehicle has increased over the last 24 months with all other categories stable or reduced.
Trends are reported for the whole of the state, the 12 NSW Statistical Divisions and the 14 Sydney Statistical Subdivisions.
BOCSAR website: www.bocsar.nsw.gov.au and the Quarterly update
Working together to prevent homophobic violence
(27/11/07)
Australia’s first comprehensive government strategy to address prejudice related violence against gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people has been launched by the NSW Government today.
The Strategic Framework 2007-2012; Working Together: Preventing Violence against gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people is based on the 2003 research report, ‘You shouldn’t have to hide to be safe’, which found disturbing levels of homophobic hostilities and violence in NSW.
NSW Police Minister David Campbell and Penny Sharpe MLC launched the strategy at NSW Parliament House.
The framework details the government’s priority areas for the next five years, which include:
- key sites of hostility and violence – particularly educational and workplace environments
- service delivery reform – ensuring that policies are developed and implemented to provide protection and support to gay, lesbian and transgender people across all public services
- prevention strategies - providing information and education about prejudice-related violence
- support for victims of prejudice-related violence
- research into prejudice-related violence with a focus on transgender and bisexual people.
The strategic framework was developed with the assistance of the Crime Prevention division of the Attorney General’s Department of NSW.
BOCSAR figures show increase in incidence of assault
(19/11/07)
The latest Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) crime victim survey (Catalogue no. 4509.1), shows a significant increase in the prevalence and incidence of assault, according to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research.
The survey is funded jointly by the NSW Police Force and the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research.
The figures released this morning by the ABS show that the percentage of NSW residents over the age of 14 who were assaulted or threatened with assault rose from 3.5 per cent in the 12 months to April 2006 to 4.4 per cent in the 12 months to April 2007.
The increase appears to have been most pronounced among the young and among those who are acquainted with their assailant.
The percentage of 15-24 year olds who were assaulted or threatened with assault rose from 6.8 per cent to 10.2 per cent. No significant changes were observed in any other age categories.
The estimated number of assaults involving victims who were acquainted with their assailant rose from 86,200 in 2006 to 118,000 in 2007, a 37 per cent increase. The number of assaults involving family members rose from 17,400 to 25,000, a 44 per cent increase.
The director of the Bureau, Dr Don Weatherburn, said that he was surprised that the crime victim survey figures for assault were not mirrored in the corresponding police figures, which have shown little or no increase over the same period. After all, the willingness of victims to report assaults to police has not changed at all.
Dr Weatherburn said he would be seeking advice from the NSW Police on whether there has been any change to police crime recording practices that might have influenced the recording of assault.
BOCSAR announces local government area crime reports
(09/11/07)
The NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research today announced the introduction of a new series of local government area crime reports.
The reports are designed to assist the Crime Prevention Division, local governments and communities to plan crime prevention initiatives.
More information
Kiama Court open day to reach out to victims of domestic violence
(08/11/07)
Victims of domestic violence are often fearful of speaking out, but a community event at Kiama Courthouse will demonstrate that help is available.
The courthouse will hold an open day on Sunday, November 25 to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
“The event will feature plenty of entertainment, with free live music, children’s activities and a BBQ but the day will carry a serious message that violence against women should never be tolerated,” said Kiama Registrar Neil Langstaff.
“The open day will be an opportunity for the community to meet some of the people and groups providing support to domestic violence victims and helping to resolve disputes peacefully.”
Groups attending the open day will include:
- The Illawarra Women's Domestic Violence Court Assistance Scheme, which supports women through the court process
- Community Justice Groups which provide mediation to people involved in disputes
- The NSW Police Crime Prevention van.
Member for Kiama Matt Brown, who will open the event, has encouraged the community to show its commitment to a safe society.
“People will be invited to accept a complimentary white ribbon and wear it as a personal pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women and children,” said Mr Brown.
The open day will also provide an opportunity to inspect the historic courthouse, which was built in 1860.
“The Kiama Courthouse is one of the town’s most famous landmarks and it is also one of the oldest public buildings on the South Coast,” said Mr Langstaff.
“The grounds of the courthouse recognise the traditional owners of the land and over the past 12 months local Aboriginal people have been landscaping the area as part of a reconciliation project.”
Event Details
When: 11am-1pm, Sunday, November 25 2007
Where: Kiama Courthouse, 34-36 Terralong Street, Kiama
Media Contact: Angus Huntsdale (02) 9228 7331
Attorney General’s Department of NSW moves to Parramatta
(05/11/07)
The Attorney General’s Department of NSW has begun moving into its new headquarters at the Parramatta Justice Precinct, with the shift to generate employment and improve services in Western Sydney.
The Department’s Director General Laurie Glanfield and Parramatta MP, Tanya Gadiel today declared the Justice Precinct Offices officially open at a ceremony in the building’s foyer.
“This morning we have seen several hundred of our staff move into the Justice Precinct Offices and by the end of the month more than 950 people will be working in this state-of-the-art nine-storey building,” said Mr Glanfield.
Mr Glanfield said the Department’s relocation to Parramatta would deliver important services to one of Australia’s fastest growing areas.
“Parramatta is located at the economic and geographical heart of Sydney and by establishing the hub of our operations here, the Department will also be able to make it services more accessible to the community,” said Mr Glanfield.
The Attorney General’s Department is responsible for administering NSW courts, tribunals, laws and justice programs. The Parramatta Justice Precinct includes the new Children’s Court of NSW, the Justice Precinct Offices and the soon-to-be completed Sydney West Trial Courts. The Justice Precinct Offices will accommodate a range of departmental services including:
- Community Justice Centres, which provide mediation to help people resolve civil disputes outside of court
- The NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages, which will offer its full range of services at the Justice Precinct Offices. It will hold wedding ceremonies in a custom-built marriage room and a picturesque marriage garden overlooking the Parramatta River
- The Office of the Protective Commissioner, which provides financial management services to people with disabilities
- The Office of the Public Guardian, which helps people with disabilities by making lifestyle decisions on their behalf, such as where to live and what services they might need
- Victims Services, which provide counselling, compensation and referral services to victims of crime. It also coordinates support services for families and friends of missing persons.
Parramatta MP Tanya Gadiel said the Department’s arrival in Parramatta would result in employment opportunities and help ensure continued prosperity for the area.
“Greater Western Sydney is booming, recording the highest rate of population growth in Australia,” said Ms Gadiel.
“Government departments and private enterprises are queuing up to establish operations in Parramatta, which is creating the jobs necessary to support the increase in population.”
Parramatta City Council has assisted the Attorney General’s Department relocate to Parramatta by providing its staff with information about the city.
“We are delighted to welcome the Attorney General’s Department to Parramatta and hope all the staff enjoy what the city has to offer, including its history, its attractions and its easy transport links,” said Paul Barber, The Lord Mayor of Parramatta City Council.
The Justice Precinct Offices were built to achieve a five-star green rating. Multiplex finished construction of the building six months ahead of schedule.
Screening juvenile offenders for further assessment and intervention
(05/11/07)
The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research has today released the report "Screening juvenile offenders for further assessment and intervention". The media release and full text of the report are available on the BOCSAR's website. http://www.bocsar.nsw.gov.au
Attorney General to commemorate 30 years of Anti-Discrimination Act NSW at Parliament House Sydney
(25/10/07)
The 30th Anniversary of the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act of 1977 will be marked by a ceremony tonight at Parliament House of NSW at 5.30 pm attended by Ministers and the human rights community.
The 30th Anniversary Commemoration will be addressed by the Attorney-General of NSW, the Hon. John Hatzistergos, and by Magistrate Nancy Hennessy of the Administrative Decisions Tribunal.
There will be a performance by young singers from Bankstown Council’s Talent Program and an exhibition.
The exhibition will feature case studies, excerpts from the Act and entries in the ADB’s photo competition.
“The Anti-Discrimination Act was a groundbreaking piece of legislation when it was introduced in 1977 and it remains crucial to addressing inequalities in society,” said Stepan Kerkyasharian, President of the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW.
The NSW Anti-Discrimination Act has undergone major changes since its enactment in 1977. “The Act today makes it illegal to discriminate against someone on the basis of their sex, disability, race, pregnancy, age, homosexuality, transgender status, marital status or carer's responsibilities.”
Each year, the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW fields 10,000 enquiries, resolves 1000 complaints and delivers educational seminars to 7500 people in NSW workplaces and the community.
Media Contact: Penelope Lake 0438 173824 or Penelope_Lake@agd.nsw.gov.au
President of the Anti-Discrimination Board: Stepan Kerkyasharian 0404 488474
NSW Anti-Discrimination Board Enquiry & Employer Advisory Service 1800 670 812
2007 Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards
(24/10/07)
Two NSW projects that have helped reduce domestic violence and crime rates in their local communities were among the four national winners announced on Tuesday 23 October at the 2007 Australian Crime & Violence Prevention Awards.
The 2007 national winning projects are:
- DVICM (NSW)
- Camp IMPACT (NSW)
- The Caversham Training and Enterprise Centre Program (WA)
- Intensive Supervision Program (WA)
Winning projects 2007 (PDF 306kB)
See also: Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards
Illawarra crime prevention group seeks founding members
(17/10/07)
Illawarra’s Aboriginal community leaders are invited to become founding members of a group that will adopt a ‘grass roots’ approach to reducing crime in the area.
“Local Aboriginal leaders know the issues facing their community and their input will be important if we are to develop solutions to crime problems in the Illawarra area,” said Brendan Thomas, Assistant Director General of the NSW Attorney General’s Department.
An Aboriginal Community Justice Group will be established in the Illawarra, following a meeting on Wednesday, October 24, 2007.
“The local Aboriginal community is encouraged to attend the meeting to learn how the justice group will operate and to put forward their names for membership,” said Mr Thomas.
The group will work on a range of local issues in cooperation with police, courts, probation and parole and the Department of Juvenile Justice. Members will also work individually with Aboriginal offenders and victims of crime.
“Around 50 per cent of detainees in juvenile detention are Aboriginal and Indigenous people account for 17 per cent of adult prisoners,” said Mr Thomas.
“A key goal of the group will be to reduce the rate of offending within the Aboriginal community and to ensure that Indigenous people are not victimised.”
Seventeen Aboriginal Community Justice Groups are already operating in rural, regional and metropolitan areas of NSW.
“The Illawarra region is obviously an area of need, as it has a large Aboriginal community and an alarming number of Indigenous people are appearing before the local court,” said Mr Thomas.
“The community justice group will be an important crime prevention initiative, which will empower Aboriginal communities to have a positive impact on justice issues.”
Meeting details
Where: Aboriginal Cultural Centre, 22 Kenny Street, Wollongong
When: Wednesday 24 October 2007 at 10 am
Media contact: Angus Huntsdale on ph: (02) 9228 7331
Good Will Week 2007 has it all
(12/10/07)
Good Will Week from 14 to 20 October is the community education program filled with events and information for all those over 18 who need to write their Will.
Almost half the adult population of NSW is still without a current Will. This is a staggering number when you consider that your Will is the one document that can protect your family and loved ones from legal and financial uncertainty if you should suddenly die, and ensure you have the final say on who receives your personal and financial effects.
During Good Will Week, the ‘Wills on the Coast’ kombi team will be travelling from Forster to Wollongong stopping at a number of Surf Life Saving Clubs and shopping centres along the way. Come along to take part in the fun giveaways and prizes, and have a chat with a Public Trustee professional about writing your Will.
The Public Trustee NSW will also be opening its branches across the state for Saturday Wills Day on October 20 for all those busy people who don’t have much time during the week, but you need to make an appointment. Call 1300 14 24 34 to secure your spot.
For more information visit the Good Will Week website.
Attorney General’s Department prepares for move to Parramatta
(08/10/07)
The Attorney General’s Department of NSW will today receive the keys to its new corporate headquarters at the Parramatta Justice Precinct, after Multiplex completed the building six months ahead of schedule.
The Department, which is currently located in Sydney’s CBD, will begin moving into the nine-storey Justice Precinct Offices in 25 days.
“By relocating to this state-of-the-art building at Parramatta, the Department will be able to improve its services and make them more accessible to the booming western Sydney community,” said Laurie Glanfield, Director General of the NSW Attorney General’s Department.
Shopfront services at the Justice Precinct Offices will include:
- Victims Services – providing counselling and compensation to victims of crime
- The Offices of the Protective Commissioner and the Public Guardian – promoting the rights of people with disabilities and managing the finances of people who do not have the capacity to look after their own affairs
- The Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages – holding marriage ceremonies, providing birth and death certificates, recording name changes and assisting with family history research.
- Community Justice Centres – providing free mediation to people involved in civil disputes.
Mr Glanfield said the Justice Precinct Offices were attracting international attention for their environmentally sustainable design.
“This is the first government building in NSW designed to achieve a five-star green energy rating,” said Mr Glanfield.
“Many of the materials used in construction have a recycled content and the building’s lighting system will conserve energy by automatically adapting to changes in outdoor daylight levels.”
Mr Glanfield said the Justice Precinct Offices would use less than half the water of a conventional office building.
“A 500,000-litre tank has been installed beneath the building to capture rainwater which will be used for toilet flushing and to irrigate the justice precinct’s gardens,” said Mr Glanfield.
Staff from the Attorney General’s Department of today will today take part in a tree planting ceremony as a symbol of their commitment to environmentally friendly work practices.
30 years of the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act
(04/10/07)
The Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW is commemorating 30 years of human rights law in NSW.
“The Anti-Discrimination Act was a groundbreaking piece of legislation when it was introduced in 1977 and it remains crucial to addressing inequalities in society,” said Stepan Kerkyasharian, President of the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW.
The 30th Anniversary of the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act of 1977 will be marked by a ceremony at Parliament House of NSW on Thursday 25 October at 5.30 pm attended by Ministers and the human rights community of NSW.
The 30th Anniversary Commemoration will be addressed by the Minister for Justice, the Attorney-General of NSW, the Hon. John Hatzistergos.
The NSW Anti-Discrimination Act has undergone major changes since its enactment in 1977. “The Act today makes it illegal to discriminate against someone on the basis of their sex, disability, race, pregnancy, age, sexual preference, transgender status, marital status or carer's responsibilities.”
Each year, the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW fields 10,000 enquiries, resolves 1000 complaints and delivers educational seminars to 7500 people in NSW workplaces and the community.
The 30th Anniversary of the Anti-Discrimination Act will also be marked by: a community event in Martin Place Sydney with a social justice theatre performance on Tuesday 23 October at 12 pm; and a University Forum on the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act co-hosted by the NSW Anti-Discrimination Board and the Koori Centre of Sydney University. The Forum is open to all and will run from 1-5 pm at Sydney University’s Koori Centre in the old teacher’s college on Tuesday 30 October.
You are also encouraged to enter the 30th Anniversary of the Anti-Discrimination Act photo competition. It's easy, you can enter as many times as you like and you could WIN $1000. Just send your JPEG portraits of human rights and anti-discrimination to ADBcomp@agd.nsw.gov.au before Monday 15 October.
30th anniversary website
View media kit
Media Contact: Penelope Lake 0438 173824 Penelope_Lake@agd.nsw.gov.au
President of the Anti-Discrimination Board: Mr Stepan Kerkyasharian 0404 488474
NSW Anti-Discrimination Board Enquiry & Employer Advisory Service 1800 670 812
NSW Women Lawyers Achievement Awards 2007 Gala dinner
(3/10/2007)
The Women Lawyers Association of NSW invites you to join the gala presentation awards dinner on Friday 19 October 2007 in the Hilton on 488 George Street in Sydney.
The event recognises outstanding women lawyers who have achieved excellence in their area of practice, while advancing opportunities for women in the law.
The special guest speaker is Honourable Acting Justice Jane Mathews AO and the MC is human rights lawyer and renowned playwright Suzie Miller.
The Attorney Generals’ Department of NSW, the Law Society of NSW, the NSW Bar Association and the Equal Opportunity support the NSW Women Lawyers Association of NSW for Women in the Workplace Agency.
For further details and registration form view the NSW Women Lawyers Association website.
New fees introduced by Births, Deaths & Marriages
(02/10/07)
The NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages has introduced new fees for its products and services.
View the new fee schedule
National Victims of Crime Conference (2-3 October 2007)
(24/09/07)
Victims’ rights will be the focus of the National Victims Of Crime Conference in Sydney on 2-3 October.
The conference hosted by Victims Services will examine charters for victims of crime.
The intention is to analyse the processes of implementation, explore the challenges of compliance including identifying any gaps in compliance and take a closer look at the various ways of understanding the charters from the perspectives of both victims and service providers.
Speakers:
- Professor Marc Groenhuijsen – Tilburg University, The Netherlands
- Professor Sam Garkawe – Southern Cross University
- Professor Richard Bryant – University of NSW
When: 9am - 5pm on Tuesday 2 October and Wednesday 3 October.
Venue: Swissotel Hotel, 68 Market Street Sydney
Cost: $374 (incl GST)
Contact: Brooke Cefai, Victims Services on ph: (02) 9374 3111 or via email.
Review of all legislation to stop graffiti vandalism
(19/09/07)
The NSW Government is reviewing all legislation to stop graffiti vandalism, including consideration of a complete ban on the sale of aerosol paint.
The aim of the review is to determine:
- whether the policy objectives of the legislation to reduce graffiti remain valid
- whether the terms of the legislation remain appropriate for securing those objectives, and
- the costs and benefits of the legislation.
The review will assess and examine the operation, effectiveness and implications of the following legislation:
i. Crimes Act 1900
- Section 195 - Maliciously destroying or damaging property
ii. Summary Offences Act 1988
- Section 7 - Damaging Fountains
- Section 8 - Damaging or desecrating protected places
- Section 9 (b) - Wilfully mark, by means of chalk, paint or other material, any premises within view from a public place, without the consent of the occupier or person in charge of the premises.
- Section 10A - Damaging and defacing property by means of spray paint.
- Section 10B - Possession of spray paint.
- Section 10C - Sale of spray paint cans to persons under 18
- Section 10D - Unsecured display by retailers of spray paint cans
- Section 30A - Compensation
- Section 33 - Payment towards cost of repairing damage
ii. Local Government Act 1993
- Section 67A - Graffiti removal work by agreement with owner or occupier
- Section 67B - Graffiti removal work without agreement of owner or occupier
- Section 67C - Register of graffiti removal work
- Section 631 - Damaging, defacing or polluting public bathing place
- Section 667 - Wilful destruction of notices and signs
iii. Rail Safety (General) Regulation 2003
- Section 36 - Graffiti and vandalism
iii. Children (Community Service Orders) Act 1987
- Section 5 - Making of children’s community service orders
- Section 17 - Obligations of persons subject to children’s community service orders
v. Crimes (Administration of Sentences) Act 1999
- Section 112 - Performance of community service work
vi. Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999
- Section 91 - Removal of graffiti
The review will also assess and examine the feasibility, effectiveness and potential implications of a complete ban on the sale of aerosol paint in NSW, including its usage, points of purchase and any impacts on business and employment.
A copy of these Acts and Regulation can be accessed at http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au
The NSW Attorney General’s Department invites interested individuals and organisations to make written submissions to the review.
Submissions should be sent to the Manager, Policy and Analysis, Crime Prevention Division, NSW Attorney General’s Department, GPO Box 6, Sydney NSW 2001 or emailed to: graffiti_submissions@agd.nsw.gov.au.
The closing date for submissions is 31 October 2007.
Seminar: Incarceration and Indigenous mental distress
(14/09/07)
Dennis McDermott, a senior lecturer in Indigenous Health at the University of New South Wales, will speak about incarceration and Indigenous mental distress at a seminar in Sydney on Thursday 20 September.
The focus of this presentation for the Criminal Justice Research Network will include:
- building justice professionals’ knowledge base of the contributors to Indigenous mental distress and their relationship to Indigenous incarceration
- examining the effect on service effectiveness of denial of such nexus
- enhancing the cultural competence of justice professionals – enabling them to work more effectively across the cultural divide
- examining strategies for culturally safe service provision that successfully engages indigenous offenders
- enhancing the ability of justice services to build sustained relationships with Indigenous health organisations and communities to foster wellbeing.
Date: Thursday, 20 September 2007
Time: 11am-12noon
Venue: Level 14, The Executive Room, Goodsell Building, cnr Phillip and Hunter Streets, Sydney
Enquiries: Andrew Chang on ph: (02) 9228 7726
RSVP by Tuesday 18 September to cjrn@agd.nsw.gov.au
Cost: Free
Young offender pilot program yields ‘mixed results’
(11/09/07)
A pilot program designed to divert young non-violent young offenders to a conference has produced mixed results, according to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research.
The media release and full text of the report are available on the BOCSAR website
Activity book encourages Aboriginal children to speak out about abuse
(11/09/07)
An innovative new activity book will use art to encourage vulnerable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children to break the silence on violence and other forms of abuse within their families.
The Our Kids: Stay Safe, Stay Strong Children’s Activity Book will be launched in Sydney on Thursday, September 6, 2007 to coincide with National Child Protection Week.
“The activity book examines sensitive issues surrounding family violence through storytelling and pictures,” said Jacqueline Gerber, activity book author and policy advisor for the NSW Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee (AJAC).
“The book explains to Indigenous children that they have a right to feel safe and should tell a trusted person if they have witnessed or been the victim of abuse within their family.
“Children who experience family violence are never to blame, but are sometimes too scared to speak out.
“Aboriginal people have traditionally used stories and art to teach children about their culture; and a drawing or an activity in this book may help children express their feelings.”
The activity book will be distributed throughout NSW to family violence counsellors and specialists in the judiciary, education, health, police and child protection sectors.
“Practitioners in these areas should contact the appropriate authorities if they have concerns for the child’s safety,” said Ms Gerber.
AJAC Executive Officer, Terry Chenery said the book was not just for Aboriginal children at risk.
“This book contains positive messages about family safety that are relevant to all Indigenous children and their communities,” said Mr Chenery.
“Research shows there has been a lack of culturally appropriate resources for Indigenous communities to address issues that contribute to the overrepresentation of our people in jail.
“Through increased awareness of family violence, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities will be in a better position to address the problem.”
The activity book is an AJAC initiative that is supported by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts Board.
Launch details
Where: The Australia Council for the Arts, Ground Floor, 372 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills
When: Thursday, September 6, 10-11:30am
Media Contacts: Jacqueline Gerber 0428111818 or Terry Chenery 0428111897
Giant artwork courts attention at Parramatta Justice Precinct
(04/09/07)
One of the largest landscape artworks in NSW has been installed at the $330 million Parramatta Justice Precinct.
The 22.4-metre wide and 6.3-metre high artwork, entitled Pharmacopeia of the Burramatta occupies an entire wall of the lobby at the new Justice Precinct Offices.
Internationally renowned artist, Gary Carsley said the landscape of Parramatta Park was the largest assignment he had undertaken.
“It took six months to construct the landscape, which consists of 95 intricately detailed panels,” said Mr Carsley.
Mr Carsley said Pharmacopeia of the Burramatta was made solely from high quality computer scans of wood vinyl.
“Up close, the artwork doesn’t make sense – it is just a mix of different styles of faux wood vinyl prints, the types of which you might see on office furniture,” said Mr Carsley.
“But if you take a step back, you will see the prints all come together to depict scenery in the historic Parramatta Park.”
Parramatta Justice Precinct project director Malcolm Levy said the artwork would be viewed by thousands of people each year.
“The NSW Attorney General’s Department will move into the nine-storey Justice Precinct Offices later in the year and this remarkable landscape will be a focal point as staff and clients enter the building,” said Mr Levy.
Mr Levy said a diverse range of shopfront services would operate from the lower floors of the Justice Precinct Offices.
“Couples will be able to tie the knot at the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriage, before having their photos taken in a picturesque garden by the Parramatta River,” said Mr Levy.
“There will also be support services for victims of crime and people who are unable to manage their own affairs due to a disability.
Mr Levy said the Justice Precinct Offices were modern, welcoming and built to a five-star greenhouse rating.
“The earthy character of Pharmacopeia of the Burramatta is symbolic of the building’s focus on environmental sustainability.”
Information about the artist: Gary Carsley has exhibited widely in Australia and Europe for 20 years. His work is held at the National Gallery of Australia, the Queensland Art Gallery, the National Gallery of Victoria and the prestigious Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art in Amsterdam. Mr Carsley’s work is also part of corporate collections at the MTV building in New York and News Corp’s London headquarters. He is a lecturer at the College of Fine Arts in Sydney and in late October his work will be featured in a solo exhibition in the Level 2 Contemporary Projects Space of the Art Gallery of New South Wales. “Karaoke’ing the Photograph”, an overview of works similar to Pharmacopeia of the Burramatta opens at Thatcher Projects in New York on Thursday, September 20, 2007.
Media Enquiries: Angus Huntsdale (02) 9228 7331
Review of all legislation to stop graffiti vandalism
(12/09/07)
The NSW Government is reviewing all legislation to stop graffiti vandalism, including consideration of a complete ban on the sale of aerosol paint.
The aim of the review is to determine:
- whether the policy objectives of the legislation to reduce graffiti remain valid
- whether the terms of the legislation remain appropriate for securing those objectives
- the costs and benefits of the legislation.
The review will assess and examine the operation, effectiveness and implications of the following legislation:
i. Crimes Act 1900
- Section 195 - Maliciously destroying or damaging property
ii. Summary Offences Act 1988
- Section 7 - Damaging Fountains
- Section 8 - Damaging or desecrating protected places
- Section 9 (b) - Wilfully mark, by means of chalk, paint or other material, any premises within view from a public place, without the consent of the occupier or person in charge of the premises.
- Section 10A - Damaging and defacing property by means of spray paint.
- Section 10B - Possession of spray paint.
- Section 10C - Sale of spray paint cans to persons under 18
- Section 10D - Unsecured display by retailers of spray paint cans
- Section 30A - Compensation
- Section 33 - Payment towards cost of repairing damage
ii. Local Government Act 1993
- Section 67A - Graffiti removal work by agreement with owner or occupier
- Section 67B - Graffiti removal work without agreement of owner or occupier
- Section 67C - Register of graffiti removal work
- Section 631 - Damaging, defacing or polluting public bathing place
- Section 667 - Wilful destruction of notices and signs
iii. Rail Safety (General) Regulation 2003
- Section 36 - Graffiti and vandalism
iii. Children (Community Service Orders) Act 1987
- Section 5 - Making of children’s community service orders
- Section 17 - Obligations of persons subject to children’s community service orders
v. Crimes (Administration of Sentences) Act 1999
- Section 112 - Performance of community service work
vi. Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999
- Section 91 - Removal of graffiti
The review will also assess and examine the feasibility, effectiveness and potential implications of a complete ban on the sale of aerosol paint in NSW, including its usage, points of purchase and any impacts on business and employment.
A copy of these Acts and Regulation can be accessed at http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au
The NSW Attorney General’s Department invites interested individuals and organisations to make written submissions to the review.
Submissions should be sent to the Manager, Policy and Analysis, Crime Prevention Division, NSW Attorney General’s Department, GPO Box 6, Sydney NSW 2001 or emailed to: graffiti_submissions@agd.nsw.gov.au.
The closing date for submissions is 31 October 2007.
Young offender pilot program yields ‘mixed results’
(11/09/07)
A pilot program designed to divert young non-violent young offenders to a conference has produced mixed results, according to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research.
The media release and full text of the report are available on the BOCSAR website
Activity book encourages Aboriginal children to speak out about abuse
(11/09/07)
An innovative new activity book will use art to encourage vulnerable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children to break the silence on violence and other forms of abuse within their families.
The Our Kids: Stay Safe, Stay Strong Children’s Activity Book will be launched in Sydney on Thursday, September 6, 2007 to coincide with National Child Protection Week.
“The activity book examines sensitive issues surrounding family violence through storytelling and pictures,” said Jacqueline Gerber, activity book author and policy advisor for the NSW Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee (AJAC).
“The book explains to Indigenous children that they have a right to feel safe and should tell a trusted person if they have witnessed or been the victim of abuse within their family.
“Children who experience family violence are never to blame, but are sometimes too scared to speak out.
“Aboriginal people have traditionally used stories and art to teach children about their culture; and a drawing or an activity in this book may help children express their feelings.”
The activity book will be distributed throughout NSW to family violence counsellors and specialists in the judiciary, education, health, police and child protection sectors.
“Practitioners in these areas should contact the appropriate authorities if they have concerns for the child’s safety,” said Ms Gerber.
AJAC Executive Officer, Terry Chenery said the book was not just for Aboriginal children at risk.
“This book contains positive messages about family safety that are relevant to all Indigenous children and their communities,” said Mr Chenery.
“Research shows there has been a lack of culturally appropriate resources for Indigenous communities to address issues that contribute to the overrepresentation of our people in jail.
“Through increased awareness of family violence, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities will be in a better position to address the problem.”
The activity book is an AJAC initiative that is supported by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts Board.
Launch details
Where: The Australia Council for the Arts, Ground Floor, 372 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills
When: Thursday, September 6, 10-11:30am
Media Contacts: Jacqueline Gerber 0428111818 or Terry Chenery 0428111897
Giant artwork courts attention at Parramatta Justice Precinct
(04/09/07)
One of the largest landscape artworks in NSW has been installed at the $330 million Parramatta Justice Precinct.
The 22.4-metre wide and 6.3-metre high artwork, entitled Pharmacopeia of the Burramatta occupies an entire wall of the lobby at the new Justice Precinct Offices.
Internationally renowned artist, Gary Carsley said the landscape of Parramatta Park was the largest assignment he had undertaken.
“It took six months to construct the landscape, which consists of 95 intricately detailed panels,” said Mr Carsley.
Mr Carsley said Pharmacopeia of the Burramatta was made solely from high quality computer scans of wood vinyl.
“Up close, the artwork doesn’t make sense – it is just a mix of different styles of faux wood vinyl prints, the types of which you might see on office furniture,” said Mr Carsley.
“But if you take a step back, you will see the prints all come together to depict scenery in the historic Parramatta Park.”
Parramatta Justice Precinct project director Malcolm Levy said the artwork would be viewed by thousands of people each year.
“The NSW Attorney General’s Department will move into the nine-storey Justice Precinct Offices later in the year and this remarkable landscape will be a focal point as staff and clients enter the building,” said Mr Levy.
Mr Levy said a diverse range of shopfront services would operate from the lower floors of the Justice Precinct Offices.
“Couples will be able to tie the knot at the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriage, before having their photos taken in a picturesque garden by the Parramatta River,” said Mr Levy.
“There will also be support services for victims of crime and people who are unable to manage their own affairs due to a disability.
Mr Levy said the Justice Precinct Offices were modern, welcoming and built to a five-star greenhouse rating.
“The earthy character of Pharmacopeia of the Burramatta is symbolic of the building’s focus on environmental sustainability.”
Information about the artist: Gary Carsley has exhibited widely in Australia and Europe for 20 years. His work is held at the National Gallery of Australia, the Queensland Art Gallery, the National Gallery of Victoria and the prestigious Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art in Amsterdam. Mr Carsley’s work is also part of corporate collections at the MTV building in New York and News Corp’s London headquarters. He is a lecturer at the College of Fine Arts in Sydney and in late October his work will be featured in a solo exhibition in the Level 2 Contemporary Projects Space of the Art Gallery of New South Wales. “Karaoke’ing the Photograph”, an overview of works similar to Pharmacopeia of the Burramatta opens at Thatcher Projects in New York on Thursday, September 20, 2007.
Media Enquiries: Angus Huntsdale (02) 9228 7331
Sydney court helps developing countries find a voice at APEC
(03/09/07)
It has been almost 20 years since Sydney’s Glebe Courthouse operated as a local court but the historic building is back in the spotlight on the eve of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit.
An organisation that helps developing countries improve their legal and judicial systems, establish negotiating capabilities on trade, and promote sustainable development, is using the old courthouse as its Asia Pacific Headquarters.
“In recent years, the International Development Law Organisation (IDLO) in partnership with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) has hosted eight training programs at Glebe Courthouse, informing more than 200 government officials and judges from developing countries in the Asia Pacific region about international trade law,” said Hongxia Liu, IDLO Director for the Asia Pacific Region.
“Judges from Federal and NSW courts have volunteered their time to assist with the training programs and we are grateful to the NSW Attorney General’s Department for allowing our organisation to utilise Glebe Courthouse for this important work.”
Ms Liu said the IDLO helps ensure developing countries have a stronger voice at international summits, such as the APEC.
“Participants in our programs learn how to defend their national interests on the global stage and how to implement international and regional trade treaties when they return to their countries,” said Ms Liu.
“Many graduates of the programs are now in charge of their country’s trade policies and will play a role at this week’s APEC summit in Sydney.”
“Without doubt, liberalisation of trade, climate change and the development of clean energy will be at the top of the APEC agenda and I hope developed and developing countries can participate in these discussions on an equal basis.”
The IDLO is a non-profit, inter-governmental organisation funded primarily by developed countries. Australia has been a member of the organisation since 2000 and the Federal Government sponsors its training programs at Glebe Courthouse through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and AusAid.
Media Contact: Hongxia Liu (02) 8585 6700
Nominations called for Violence Against Women Prevention Awards
(05/09/07)
Nominations are invited for the 2007 NSW Violence Against Women Prevention Awards.
The awards are designed to acknowledge and promote outstanding and innovative contribution to the prevention of violence against women in NSW. Nominations of individuals, groups, organisations that have undertaken outstanding work, or businesses and journalists/media outlets, are encouraged.
The categories are:
- Service Provision
- Prevention
- Tanya King Individual Award
- Media Excellence
The guidelines and nomination form are available from http://www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/vaw.
Nominations close on Friday 19 October 2007.
The awards will be presented at a ceremony on Friday 30 November, as part of the NSW 16 Days of Activism to Stop Violence Against Women Campaign (25 November - 10 December).
NSW Criminal Courts Statistics released
(22/08/08)
The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCAR) has today released the annual report NSW Criminal Courts Statistics 2006. The media release and full text of the report are available on the BOCSAR's website and the following links:
>> View Media release
>> View PDF version of report NSW Criminal Courts Statistics 2006 (pdf 797Kb)
NSW celebrates 30 years of anti-discrimination law with photo comp
(21/08/07)
NSW residents are being encouraged to enter a $1000 photo competition to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act.
“The Anti-Discrimination Act was a groundbreaking piece of legislation when it was introduced in 1977 and it remains crucial to addressing inequalities in society,” said Stepan Kerkyasharian, President of the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW.
“We are looking for a photograph that symbolises the importance of the Anti-Discrimination Act by highlighting its key values of respect, unity and equality.”
The competition is open to everyone in NSW and people can enter as many times as they like.
The winning photograph and short-listed entries will be exhibited at venues across NSW and online.
Mr Kerkyasharian said the exhibitions would be a novel way of informing the community about the Anti-Discrimination Act.
“People unaware of the Act can be particularly vulnerable if they are discriminated against because they may not be aware of their rights,” said Mr Kerkyasharian.
“We hope to reach these people through the photo exhibition and show them how the Anti-Discrimination Act can protect them at school, in the workplace, at the shops and in other aspects of everyday life.
“The Act makes it illegal to discriminate against someone on the basis of their sex, disability, race, pregnancy, age, sexual preference, transgender status, marital status or carer's responsibilities.”
Each year, the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW fields 10,000 enquiries, resolves 1000 complaints and delivers educational seminars to 7500 people in NSW workplaces and the community.
Photo competition entries can be emailed to ADBcomp@agd.nsw.gov.au (entries must be sent in a jpeg file and should be 1MB-2MB).
The competition closes on Monday, October 15, 2007. The winner will be announced on the Anti-Discrimination Board‘s 30th Anniversary website www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/adb30 and invited to the 30th Anniversary Commemoration ceremony in October.
Contact: President of the Anti-Discrimination Board Mr Stepan Kerkyasharian on mb: 0404 488 474.
Media inquiries: Penelope Lake on mb: 0438 173 824.
Campbelltown crime prevention group seeks founding members
(15/08/07)
Campbelltown’s Aboriginal community leaders are invited to become founding members of a group that will adopt a ‘grass roots’ approach to reducing crime in the area.
“Local Aboriginal leaders know the issues facing their community and their input will be important if we are to develop solutions to crime problems in Campbelltown,” said Brendan Thomas, Director of Crime Prevention and Aboriginal Programs for the NSW Attorney General’s Department.
An Aboriginal Community Justice Group will be established in Campbelltown, following a meeting on August 17.
“The local Aboriginal community is encouraged to attend the meeting to learn how the justice group will operate and to put forward their names for membership,” said Mr Thomas.
The group will work on a range of local issues in cooperation with police, courts, probation and parole and the Department of Juvenile Justice. It will also work individually with Aboriginal offenders and victims of crime.
“Around 50 per cent of detainees in juvenile detention are Aboriginal and Indigenous people account for 17 per cent of adult prisoners,” said Mr Thomas.
“A key goal of the group will be to reduce the rate of offending within the Aboriginal community and to ensure that Indigenous people are not victimised.”
Seventeen Aboriginal Community Justice Groups are already operating in rural, regional and metropolitan areas of NSW.
“Campbelltown is an area of need, as it has one of the largest Aboriginal communities in NSW and an alarming number of Indigenous people are appearing before the local court,” said Mr Thomas.
“The community justice group will be an important crime prevention initiative, which will empower Aboriginal communities to have a positive impact on justice issues.”
Meeting Details:
Where: Campbelltown Courthouse, Railway St, Campbelltown
When: Friday, August 17, 2007 at 10.30am
Media Contact: Angus Huntsdale 0408 168 540
Activity book encourages Aboriginal children to speak out about abuse
(14/08/07)
An innovative new activity book will use art to encourage vulnerable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children to break the silence on violence and other forms of abuse within their families.
The Our Kids: Stay Safe, Stay Strong Children’s Activity Book will be launched in Sydney on Thursday, September 6, 2007 to coincide with National Child Protection Week.
“The activity book examines sensitive issues surrounding family violence through storytelling and pictures,” said Jacqueline Gerber, activity book author and policy advisor for the NSW Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee (AJAC).
“The book explains to Indigenous children that they have a right to feel safe and should tell a trusted person if they have witnessed or been the victim of abuse within their family.
“Children who experience family violence are never to blame, but are sometimes too scared to speak out.
“Aboriginal people have traditionally used stories and art to teach children about their culture; and a drawing or an activity in this book may help children express their feelings.”
The activity book will be distributed throughout NSW to family violence counsellors and specialists in the judiciary, education, health, police and child protection sectors.
“Practitioners in these areas should contact the appropriate authorities if they have concerns for the child’s safety,” said Ms Gerber.
AJAC Executive Officer, Terry Chenery said the book was not just for Aboriginal children at risk.
“This book contains positive messages about family safety that are relevant to all Indigenous children and their communities,” said Mr Chenery.
“Research shows there has been a lack of culturally appropriate resources for Indigenous communities to address issues that contribute to the overrepresentation of our people in jail.
“Through increased awareness of family violence, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities will be in a better position to address the problem.”
The activity book is an AJAC initiative that is supported by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts Board.
Launch details
Where: The Australia Council for the Arts, Ground Floor, 372 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills
When: Thursday 6 September 10-11:30am
Media Contacts: Jacqueline Gerber on 0428 111 818 or Terry Chenery on 0428 111 897.
Free CJRN Seminar planned
(13/08/07)
The Criminal Justice Research Network will present the seminar ‘The Developing Brain: Implications for the Criminal Justice System in their encounters with teenagers and young adults’ on Thursday 23 August.
The seminar is aimed at policy makers working in the justice system who have an interest in adolescents, mental health and crime prevention.
For more information about the seminar, please view the conference flyer or visit the Criminal Justice Research Network website.
Seminar: Developments in Aboriginal-focused correctional centres
(07/08/07)
The Institute of Criminology and the NSW Department of Corrective Service will present a seminar on the progress of Aboriginal-focused correctional centres on 15 August.
The seminar will explain how Aboriginal-focused correctional facilities operate and the impact they have on reoffending.
Seminar speakers will critique the NSW correctional centres Yetta Dhinnakkal (Brewarrina) and Warrakirri (Ivanhoe), which were designed to meet the needs of Aboriginal offenders.
Date: Wednesday 15 August 2007
Time: 5.30-7.30pm
Venue: Sydney University Law School, Minter Ellison Room, Level 13, 173 – 175 Phillip Street Sydney.
Cost: Free. Please register for catering purposes via www.criminology.law.usyd.edu.au/beyond_punishment_seminars.htm.
Details: Rachel Miller on ph: (02) 9351 0239.
Missing Persons Week to begin with Sydney church service
(01/08/07)
Families and friends who have lost contact with a loved one are being encouraged to attend a Sydney church service on Sunday 5 August to mark the beginning of National Missing Persons Week 2007.
The non-denominational service at the Arncliffe Uniting Church in Bardwell Valley, will focus on the theme of Missing Persons Week, which is “How do you find someone when they struggle to find themselves?”
“The theme highlights mental health as one of the factors that can contribute to people going missing and the struggle those people often face while they are missing,” said Lee Purches, Senior Project Officer from the Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit (FFMPU) of the NSW Attorney General’s Department.
The FFMPU, which offers free counselling and referrals to search agencies, will attend the service.
“Families and friends of missing persons are invited to bring something to the service that reminds them of their loved one – whether it be a photo, one of their possessions or a piece of writing,” said Niki Ferrar, FFMPU Counsellor.
“They may also wish to light a candle, as a symbol of hope that the missing person is safe and well.”
Other Missing Persons Week events will include the screening of an educational DVD aimed at raising awareness of missing persons’ issues in Aboriginal communities. The DVD will be shown to a group of young people and community members in the Redfern and Waterloo areas.
“The DVD, titled ‘Missing’, emphasises that going missing is not a crime, and explains the importance of promptly reporting the disappearance of a person,” said Ms Purches.
“In Aboriginal communities, informal networks are often used initially to try and locate a person who has gone missing. However, if disappearances are also reported promptly, the police will have a better chance of finding the person and making sure they are OK..”
Church service details
Where: Arncliffe Uniting Church, 29 Hannam St, Bardwell Valley
When: Sunday 5 August 2007 at 1.30pm
More information about the services offered by the Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit is available at: www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/missingpersons
Media Contact: Angus Huntsdale 0408 168 540
Missing Persons Week reaches out to family and friends
(01/08/07)
The disappearance of a person can have a devastating impact on their family and friends, but National Missing Persons Week 2007 is set to highlight that there is help available.
The NSW Attorney General’s Department offers free counselling and support to people across the state who are coming to terms with the disappearance of someone close to them.
“Missing Persons Week is consistently one of the busiest time of the year for our counsellors,” said Lee Purches, Senior Project Officer from the Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit (FFMPU) of the Attorney General’s Department.
NSW is the only State or Territory in Australia that provides specialist services for families and friends of missing persons.
“We don’t just offer counseling. We work with, and on behalf of the families and friends of missing persons who live in NSW or who have had someone go missing from NSW. FFMPU provides information, resources, support, referrals to search agencies and we work closely with the NSW Police Force Missing Persons Unit. The counsellor can assist with reunions if a person has been found and wishes to re-establish contact with their family,” said Niki Ferrar FFMPU Counsellor.
More than 10,000 people are reported missing to police each year, with around 99 per cent found within weeks.
Ms Ferrar said there was a significant flow on effect for those left behind, regardless of how long a person was missing.
“Research shows that for every person that disappears, there will be around 12 people directly affected,” said Ms Ferrar.
“The stress of not knowing what has happened to someone can cause sleeplessness, affect work performance and lead to family tensions as each person deals with the disappearance in different ways. We help people to develop strategies to cope with their unresolved loss,” said Ms Ferrar.
National Missing Person Week 2007 will be held from August 5-11. This year’s theme is “How do you find someone when they struggle to find themselves?”
“The theme highlights mental health as one of the factors that can contribute to people going missing and the struggle those people often face while they are missing. Unresolved loss can also have significant mental health consequences for the families and friends of missing persons,” said Ms Purches.
More information about the services offered by the Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit is available at: www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/missingpersons
Media Contact: Angus Huntsdale 0408 168 540
Missing Persons Week to highlight new services coming to Parramatta
(01/08/07)
A support service for people coming to terms with the disappearance of a loved one, is preparing to move into the $330 million Parramatta Justice Precinct.
The Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit (FFMPU) will relocate to the nine-storey Justice Precinct Offices in November. The offices will be the new corporate headquarters for the NSW Attorney General’s Department.
NSW is the only state or territory in Australia that provides specialist services for families and friends of missing persons. FFMPU works with, and on behalf of the families and friends of missing persons who live in NSW or who have had someone go missing from NSW.
Lee Purches from the FFMPU said the unit didn't just offer counselling.
"We provide information, resources, support, referrals to search agencies and work closely with the NSW Police Force Missing Persons Unit. The FFMPU counsellor can also assist with reunions if a person has been found and wishes to re-establish contact with their family,” said Ms Purches.
Ms Purches said National Missing Persons Week, which will be held from August 5-11, would be a busy time for the unit.
“Research shows that for every person that disappears, there will be around 12 people directly affected,” said Ms Purches.
“For many of our clients, Missing Persons Week will be a sad reminder of their ongoing loss. But there’s no doubt the week raises public awareness which can lead to valuable information being obtained about a person’s whereabouts.”
The theme of Missing Persons Week is “How do you find someone when they struggle to find themselves?”
“The theme highlights mental health as one of the factors that can contribute to people disappearing and the struggle those people often face while they are missing,” said Ms Purches.
Ms Purches said the FFMPU’s move to Parramatta would raise the profile of the unit and enable it to work more closely with the Western Sydney community and surrounding communities.
“We will have a shopfront at the Parramatta Justice Precinct that will be easily accessible to the public and far more visible than our current office in Sydney’s CBD,” said Ms Purches.
The FFMPU is part of the Victims Services branch of the NSW Attorney General’s Department, which will also be relocating to Parramatta.
More information about the services offered by the Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit is available at: www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/missingpersons
Media Contact: Angus Huntsdale (02) 9228 7331
Integrated responses to domestic violence practice forum planned
(27/07/07)
The Crime Prevention Division, NSW Attorney General’s Department (AGD) and the Violence Against Women Specialist Unit (VAW Unit), Communities Division, Department of Community Services will be hosting an Integrated Responses to Domestic Violence practice forum.
The aim of the forum is to develop a strategic framework to support a more consistent approach to the development and implementation of integrated responses to domestic violence.
The forum will bring together 80 policy makers and service providers implementing domestic violence integrated programs. This will allow an examination of how the services are operating, identification of effective practices and development of solutions to some of the challenges of working within an integrated approach.
The service providers invited to participate in the forum include; the Departments of Health, Housing, Community Services, Attorney General’s; NSW Police Force; Legal Aid Commission NSW; and Non Government Organisations working in integrated domestic violence programs such as the Domestic Violence Intervention COurt Model, Staying Home Leaving Violence, Integrated Case Management and Women's Domestic Violence Court Assistance Program.
When: Wednesday 15 August 2007
Time: 8.30 am to 5.00 pm
Where: Parliament House, Jubilee Room NSW Parliament House, Macquarie Street, Sydney
The forum is by invitation only, however if you would like any further infomration, please contact Mandy Young
on (02) 9228 8056 or email: mandy_young@agd.nsw.gov.au
Bankstown Court to hold open day for Arabic community
(24/07/07)
Bankstown Courthouse will open its doors to the Arabic community on Wednesday 1 August. The open day will include court tours and a range of seminars, all of which will be delivered in Arabic and English.
Open day program:
| 9.45 am | Official opening |
| 10 am and 1 pm | Court tour: How the court works |
| 10.30 am | What the Sheriff does |
| 11.30 am | What to do about neighbourhood disputes |
| 12 pm | How to protect your family’s inheritance |
| 12.30 pm | How to get legal help |
| 1.30 pm | Discrimination and your rights |
Information stands will be available from 9.45 am to 3 pm in the courthouse foyer.
The NSW Attorney General’s Department is committed to working with culturally and linguistically diverse communities to create a just and safe society.
Bankstown Courthouse is at the corner of Chapel Road and The Mall, Bankstown.
For more information contact Anne Mangan on ph: 9228 7507 or email: diversity_services@agd.nsw.gov.au.
>> View Arabic Brochure
>> View English Brochure
Integrated responses to domestic violence practice forum planned
(27/07/07)
The Crime Prevention Division, NSW Attorney General’s Department (AGD) and the Violence Against Women Specialist Unit (VAW Unit), Communities Division, Department of Community Services will be hosting an Integrated Responses to Domestic Violence practice forum.
The aim of the forum is to develop a strategic framework to support a more consistent approach to the development and implementation of integrated responses to domestic violence.
The forum will bring together 80 policy makers and service providers implementing domestic violence integrated programs. This will allow an examination of how the services are operating, identification of effective practices and development of solutions to some of the challenges of working within an integrated approach.
The service providers invited to participate in the forum include; the Departments of Health, Housing, Community Services, Attorney General’s; NSW Police Force; Legal Aid Commission NSW; and Non Government Organisations working in integrated domestic violence programs such as the Domestic Violence Intervention COurt Model, Staying Home Leaving Violence, Integrated Case Management and Women's Domestic Violence Court Assistance Program.
When: Wednesday 15 August 2007
Time: 8.30 am to 5.00 pm
Where: Parliament House, Jubilee Room NSW Parliament House, Macquarie Street, Sydney
The forum is by invitation only, however if you would like any further infomration, please contact Mandy Young
on (02) 9228 8056 or email: mandy_young@agd.nsw.gov.au
Bankstown Court to hold open day for Arabic community
(24/07/07)
Bankstown Courthouse will open its doors to the Arabic community on Wednesday 1 August. The open day will include court tours and a range of seminars, all of which will be delivered in Arabic and English.
Open day program:
| 9.45 am | Official opening |
| 10 am and 1 pm | Court tour: How the court works |
| 10.30 am | What the Sheriff does |
| 11.30 am | What to do about neighbourhood disputes |
| 12 pm | How to protect your family’s inheritance |
| 12.30 pm | How to get legal help |
| 1.30 pm | Discrimination and your rights |
Information stands will be available from 9.45 am to 3 pm in the courthouse foyer.
The NSW Attorney General’s Department is committed to working with culturally and linguistically diverse communities to create a just and safe society.
Bankstown Courthouse is at the corner of Chapel Road and The Mall, Bankstown.
For more information contact Anne Mangan on ph: 9228 7507 or email: diversity_services@agd.nsw.gov.au.
>> View Arabic Brochure
>> View English Brochure
Attorney General’s Department creates alumni partnerships
(23/07/07)
About 40 people attended the Attorney General’s Department’s (AGD) second Alumni meeting on 12 July.
The alumni members came along to meet and mingle, hear from key speakers and meet members who had volunteered to join the new Alumni Management Committee.
Maree Perfrement, from the Department’s Human Resources Branch, said central to the event’s success was having a high rate of current managers mingle with alumnists, to identify future projects in which interested ex-employees can participate and share their experience with employees.
'The AGD Alumni has been established to provide a mechanism for the Department to establish an ongoing relationship with ex-employees,' she said.
'By maintaining this relationship it is hoped that Business Centre's will have a ready pool of skilled resources for future departmental initiatives.'
Key speakers included Supreme Court Chief Executive Officer, Megan Greenwood, who spoke about the Courts 2010 program, which attracted particular interest from Local Courts alumnists.
Director of Human Resources Branch, Helen Kidston also spoke to members.
David Hull of the newly formed AGD Alumni Management Committee introduced and explained the role of each member of the committee.
The Alumni Management Committee also announced future events for the AGD Alumni will be held on 12 October and 7 December.
The AGD Alumni provides an opportunity for former employees to share their expertise and experiences, while renewing friendships and establishing networks.
Membership is also open to staff planning to leave or retire in the near future.
To find out more, come along to the next Alumni events which will soon be detailed on the AGD Alumni website:
www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/alumni
New range of commemorative birth certificates available
(23/07/07)
The NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages has launched a new range of commemorative birth certificates.
Commemorative certificates are designed to capture the joy and excitement of a birth.
From both customer market research and staff feedback, the Registry has come up with a modern and exciting range that caters for many different tastes and demographics.
The range includes:
- handprint blue
- handprint pink
- feet
- feet (displaying no parents' details)
- booties
- nursery
- harbour
- gum blossom
Samples of the certificates can be viewed on the Registry website.
You can apply for the certificates by downloading the PDF “Application for a Birth Certificate”.
Commemorative certificates are sold as a package costing $52 (which also includes a standard birth certificate valued at $38 for official purposes).
Additional commemorative certificates (costing $14 per certificate) can be added to the package.
Commemorative certificates are A4 in size and are beautifully presented, wrapped in tissue paper and packed in a protective cylinder.
Free CJRN Seminar scheduled
(19/07/07)
The Criminal Justice Research Network will present the seminar ‘Are brief alcohol interventions culturally appropriate for Aboriginal people?’ on Thursday 26 July.
The seminar will cover some interesting areas of alcohol interventions for aboriginal people including the value of opportunistic interventions by service providers; indigenous engagements with health services; socio-cultural influences on Indigenous alcohol use and barriers to change; and the potential role of the ‘authorising outsider’.
For more information about the seminar, please view the conference flyer or visit the Criminal Justice Research Network website.
Second Alumni event planned
(17/07/07)
A second Alumni event has been planned for former employees of the Attorney General's Department.
More than 160 people have already joined the new Alumni network.
The AGD Alumni provides an opportunity for former employees to share their expertise and experiences, while renewing friendships and establishing networks.
The next gathering will be held on Wednesday 18 July from 5 pm to 6.30 pm on Level 14 of the Goodsell Building.
If you wish to attend, please RSVP by 12 July to Banu Iyer via email: banu_iyer@agd.nsw.gov.au or ph: 9228 7516.
For more information about the Department's Alumni and its events visit www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/alumni.
How far should we go to protect privacy?
(06/07/07)
Imagine your personal letters being published for strangers to read. Or your neighbour focusing a camera on your backyard. At the moment, the law does little to stop these things happening, and offers no redress once they occur.
A Consultation Paper released today in hard copy by the NSW Law Reform Commission poses the question: should people be able to take legal action in a court or tribunal if their privacy is invaded?
Personal privacy is recognised as a human right, and is protected by a number of international treaties. However, most Australians are surprised to learn that we enjoy very limited legal protection against invasions of personal privacy. This puts Australia out of step with the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand and most European nations, which have legally enforceable privacy protections.
The Chair of the Commission, the Hon James Wood AO QC, said that if a cause of action for privacy invasion were considered desirable in NSW, the Commission initially favours one based on statute. However, no firm decision on the need for, or the form of, any cause of action had yet been made:
At this stage of our review, the Commission has not determined whether there should be a general action for invasion of privacy. That decision can only be made after we have consulted with the community on the need for further privacy protection.
The Commissioner in charge of the review, Professor Michael Tilbury, said that the Commission understands the concerns that may arise about the effect of the proposed cause of action on freedom of speech, but notes that these concerns are misplaced. A cause of action for privacy invasion would not mean that privacy automatically took precedence over other important public interests, such as national security or freedom of speech. In the Commission’s view, an action for invasion of privacy should only be available in cases where the interest in privacy was not outweighed by the other public interests.
The Commission invites submissions to its Consultation Paper by 15 September 2007.
Media comment
Professor Michael Tilbury, Commissioner, NSW Law Reform Commission
Tel: (02) 9228 8230
Couples tie the knot on the luckiest day in 100 years
(06/07/07)
The NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages is preparing for a very busy day on Saturday 7 July 2007. “This one in 100 years calendar event has caused a sensation here at the Registry,” said Greg Curry, Registrar, NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages.
This Saturday, 24 couples are set to tie the knot at the Registry. The Registry has extended its Saturday hours to cope with demand. The first marriage will start at 9:00 am and with the last marriage finishing after 8:00 pm.
In 1907, there were only two marriages on 7 July. This year the Registry expects to register more than 250 marriages from across New South Wales.
“Getting married on significant or lucky days is popular here at the Registry. Many couples feel that getting married on the 7th day of the 7th month of 2007 will add something special,” added Mr Curry.
In 2006, the Registry conducted around 3,200 marriages. The Registry continues to grow in popularity with couples for many different reasons, including affordability. Weddings at the Registry start from $270.00.
To find out more about getting married at the Registry, call 1300 655 236 or visit www.bdm.nsw.gov.au.
For further information, please contact:
Alana Sheil
Marketing Manager
NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages
Ph: (02) 8306 8558
Mb: 0412 234 339
Nominations open for Justice Awards
(04/07/07)
Nominations open on Monday 2 July for the 2007 Justice Awards.
The Law and Justice Foundation seeks nominations of people who have worked to improve access to justice for socially and economically disadvantaged people in NSW.
The following categories of award are open for public nominations:
The Justice Medal– sponsored by the Foundation and presented to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in improving access to justice in NSW, in a range of activities over an extended period or in work over a shorter period which has had exceptional impact.
The Aboriginal Justice Award - sponsored by the Attorney General’s Department of NSW and presented to an Aboriginal individual or group of individuals demonstrating outstanding commitment to improving access to justice for Aboriginal people in NSW.
The Law and Justice Volunteer Award - sponsored by the Bar Association of NSW and presented to an individual/groups of individuals demonstrating - in a voluntary capacity - outstanding commitment to improving access to justice in NSW.
The Pro Bono Partnership Award– sponsored by the National Pro Bono Resource Centre and presented to a partnership comprising a private law firm, community organisation and/or community legal centre in NSW which has developed an outstanding pro bono legal relationship.
Nominations can be made on a form currently being mailed to organisations, or online at www.lawfoundation.net.au/justice_awards/ and close on Monday 13 August.
The awards will be made at the Justice Awards presentation dinner on 31 October 2007.
Enquiries: Gráinne Murphy on ph: 8227 3203.
Aboriginal justice conference in Coffs Harbour
(20/06/07)
Representatives of Aboriginal Community Justice Groups and Circle Sentencing panels from northern NSW will attend a two-day conference, starting tomorrow, at Coffs Harbour on strategies and programs aimed at making Aboriginal communities safer.
Aboriginal community members involved in the programs from Lismore, Grafton, Kempsey, Maclean and Armidale will attend the conference that was organised by the NSW Attorney General’s Department.
“This conference provides an excellent opportunity to recognise the significant contribution made through the voluntary work of Aboriginal Community Justice Group and Circle Sentencing members on behalf of their communities,” Attorney General John Hatzistergos said.
“These programs are a vital part of the government’s response to reducing crime and making Aboriginal communities safer.”
Aboriginal Community Justice Groups are supported by the NSW Government’s State Plan and involve representatives from local Aboriginal communities. They examine crime in their communities and look at ways of addressing the issues that contribute to this.
Circle Sentencing is an alternative sentencing court for adult Aboriginal offenders that takes the court into the community. It involves the Aboriginal community in the sentencing process. Both programs seek to reduce the over-representation of Aboriginal people in the criminal justice system.
The conference will provide a number of benefits to community members including increasing their knowledge of strategies and programs aimed at reducing offending as well as helping them work with the criminal justice system.
Delegates will hear from representatives of the Victorian Koori Court where Aboriginal Elders or respected people sit with the magistrate when sentences are determined. In addition the Deputy Chief Magistrate and speakers from the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research and NSW Police Force will address the conference.
Conference details
| Where: | Yarrawarra Aboriginal Corporation at Red Rock |
| When: | Thursday, 21 June 2007 (9am-4:30pm) |
| Friday, 22 June 2007 (9am-1pm) |
National Victims of Crime Conference 2007
(20/06/07)
Victims Services is hosting the National Victims of Crime Conference 'Victims Rights - Taking a Closer Look' on 2-3 October 2007 at the Swissotel Hotel, Sydney.
The conference will explore the key areas of victims’ rights including those identified under a charter of victims’ rights.
How service providers address and implement these rights in their day-to-day work and any challenges in doing so will be examined. A key focus will be explaining these issues from a victim’s perspective.
Staff who work with victims of crime or have an interest in victims’ rights are encouraged to attend. The early bird registration fee is $352.00 including GST. Spaces are limited so get in quick!
Registration forms can be downloaded from www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/vs.
For more information, please contact Brooke Cefai on ph: (02) 9374 3111 or via email: brooke_cefai@agd.nsw.gov.au.
Aboriginal justice conference in Dubbo
(12/06/07)
Representatives of Aboriginal Community Justice Groups and Circle Sentencing panels from western NSW will attend a two-day conference, starting today, at Dubbo on strategies and programs aimed at making Aboriginal communities safer.
Aboriginal community members involved in the programs from Wagga Wagga, Broken Hill, Bourke, Brewarrina, Walgett, Moree and Dubbo will attend the conference that was organised by the NSW Attorney General’s Department.
“This conference provides an excellent opportunity to recognise the significant contribution made through the voluntary work of Aboriginal Community Justice Group and Circle Sentencing members on behalf of their communities,” Attorney General John Hatzistergos said.
“These programs are a vital part of the government’s response to reducing crime and making Aboriginal communities safer.”
Aboriginal Community Justice Groups are supported by the NSW Government’s State Plan and involve representatives from local Aboriginal communities. They examine crime in their communities and look at ways of addressing the issues that contribute to this.
Circle Sentencing is an alternative sentencing court for adult Aboriginal offenders that takes the court into the community. It involves the Aboriginal community in the sentencing process. Both programs seek to reduce the over-representation of Aboriginal people in the criminal justice system.
The conference will provide a number of benefits to community members including increasing their knowledge of strategies and programs aimed at reducing offending as well as helping them work with the criminal justice system.
Delegates will hear from representatives of the Victorian Koori Court where Aboriginal Elders or respected people sit with the magistrate when sentences are determined. In addition the Deputy Chief Magistrate and speakers from the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research and NSW Police Force will address the conference.
Community Seminar training program listed
(07/06/07)
The Anti-Discrimination Board is running the 2007 Community Seminar training program in conjunction with the Centre of Community Welfare and Training on 18 June and 7 November 2007.
This training course is designed to address the specific needs of people working within the community sector. It is targeted at community workers and other people who are in an advisory role.
View the Anti-Discrimination Board website for further details.
Animal law conference in July
(06/06/07)
The New South Wales Young Lawyers Animal Rights Committee will present Australia's first animal law conference in Sydney in July 2007.
The conference with the theme ‘The Future of Animal Law in Australia’ aims to educate lawyers, legislators, government departments and departmental employees on issues relating to animal law.
Many lawyers and the broader community are expressing strong and growing interest in animal protection and the emerging field of animal law.
For more information about the conference, please visit the Young Lawyers’ Animal Rights Committee website.
Seminar presented by the Law Council of Australia
(01/06/07)
The Law Council of Australia is organising the seminar Reform and Business Efficiency – China and Indonesia on Friday 6 July 2007.
The theory of law reform with specific reference to law in developing countries such as China and Indonesia at the University of Sydney Law School will be discussed.
For furtner information and registration view the seminar flyer.
Discussion paper: The law of consent and sexual assault
(29/05/07)
The Criminal Law Review Division is seeking submissions in response to a discussion paper on the law of consent and sexual assault.
The discussion paper is accompanied by a draft exposure bill that takes into account a number of recommendations made by the Criminal Justice Sexual Offences Taskforce on this issue.
Submissions close on 20 July 2007.
View discussion paper
32 Life Pieces artwork for sale
(22/05/07)
An exhibition celebrating the artistic talents of people with disabilities will be displayed in Parliament House in June.
The offices of the Public Guardian and Protective Commissioner are staging the exhibition '32 Life Pieces' in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Guardianship Act 1987.
All of the artworks (as well as 200 extras) are available for sale. View catalogue.
Sales enquiries should be directed to the Information and Support Branch at the Office of the Public Guardian on ph: (02) 9265 1443 or ph: 1800 451 510 or email: informationsupport@opg.nsw.gov.au.
For more information visit the Office of the Public Guardian website.
Report: Blind or deaf people could serve on juries
(18/05/07)
The NSW Law Reform Commission has recommended the law be changed to enable people who are blind or deaf to serve on juries.
View Report 114 (2006) – Blind or deaf jurors
Judicial independence: purposes and threats
(17/05/07)
During the 7th Worldwide Common Law Judicial Conference held in London in April, Chief Justice James Spigelman AC explains in his speech why judicial independence is essential to the rule of Law.
For more information read Judicial independence: Purposes and threats addressed by the Chief Justice.
NSW Police seeks expressions of interest
(14/01/07)
The NSW Police Force is calling for expressions of interest for its new Disability Advisory Council from individuals with expertise relevant to people with disabilities and the justice system.
For further information visit the NSW Police Force website.
Report: 55% of defendants could have mental illness
(09/05/07)
A pilot study of 189 defendants in the Blacktown and Newcastle Local Courts by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics & Research (BOCSAR) has found that 55 per cent reported one or more signs of psychiatric disorder.
Of those who reported a psychiatric disorder, three-quarters also met the criteria for dependent or disordered substance use.
View BOCSAR media release
View full report on BOCSAR’s website (pdf)
Attorney General’s: a popular choice for law students
(09/05/07)
Law students have ranked the Attorney General’s Department among the top places they would most prefer to work.
A Lawyers Weekly survey revealed the Department was rated seventh on the list of ‘the most appealing places to work’.
The top six included Mallesons Stephen Jaques, Clayton Utz, Blake Dawson Waldron, Allens Arthur Robinson, and Freehills.
The students were asked which stalls they wanted to see at the Sydney Law Careers Fair and where they might like to work.
View Lawyers Weekly article
JCA releases sentencing guide
(08/05/07)
The Judicial Conference of Australia (JCA) has published a free resource for members of the public who wish to gain a better understanding of the system of sentencing offenders in Australia.
The booklet entitled 'Judge for Yourself: A Guide to Sentencing in Australia' is available online.
The Judicial Conference of Australia is the national representative body for Australian judicial officers. It has a membership of some 600 judges and magistrates, and is a non-profit organisation largely funded by its members.
Students invited to enter competition about privacy issues
(04/05/07)
The International Privacy Commissioners of Australia, Hong Kong, New Zealand, the Northern Territory, NSW and Victoria have launched an international writing competition for secondary students.
This event is being jointly hosted by the Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities as part of Privacy Awareness Week from 26 August to 1 September.
More information on the competition and Privacy Awareness Week can be found at www.privacyawarenessweek.org or by contacting the NSW Privacy Commissioner, John Dickie, on ph: (02) 9228 8585.
View media release
Department pioneering public sector job swap program
(02/05/07)
The Attorney General’s Department is pioneering an online job swap program to help staff affected by a head office relocation to Parramatta.
The program will provide opportunities for officers to effectively swap jobs with other officers at the same grade across the NSW public sector.
Forty-one agencies have expressed support for the scheme which aims to reduce the hardship some staff may face as a result of the relocation.
Public sector officers interested in working for the Attorney General’s Department at Parramatta can register their interest online.
Nominate for NSW Women Lawyers Achievement Awards
(26/04/07)
The nominations for NSW Women Lawyers Achievement Awards are now officially open.
The Women Lawyers Association encourages you to nominate an outstanding woman lawyer and support the advancement and acknowledgement of the achievements of women in law.
Please forward your nominations for the following three categories for the awards:
- practising private or corporate lawyer
- practising government or community lawyer
- young lawyer under five years in practice.
The winners of the awards will be announced during a gala dinner on 19 October 2007 at the Hilton Hotel in Sydney.
The Master of Ceremony for this event will be Suzie Miller, human rights lawyer and the keynote speaker will be Her Honour Acting Justice Jane Mathews of the Supreme Court of NSW.
The winners will be announced after the presentation dinner, the winners will be announced through the media networks and publications associated with the various organisations supporting the Awards.
The closing date for nominations is 30 June 2007.
Please click here for further details and the Nomination form.
Research on strong Indigenous communities
(24/04/07)
The Indigenous Justice Clearinghouse has released its first research brief entitled Research on Strong Indigenous Communities.
It is the first in a series of briefs designed to progress Indigenous evidence-based policy making by providing access to research findings for policy makers.
The series of briefs encompass topics that are current Indigenous policy issues. They aim to draw together knowledge in a particular area or raise issues where further research is needed.
You can view the research brief on www.indigenousjustice.gov.au
On the Clearinghouse website you can also find:
· an online forum for exchanging informal knowledge on Indigenous justice
· a register of Indigenous justice research and policy resources.
The Clearinghouse has been developed by the Attorney General’s Department of NSW and the Australian Institute of Criminology for the Standing Committee of Attorneys-General.
For further information please contact the Strategic Research Officer Ruth Lawrence on (02) 9228 8048 or ruth_lawrence@agd.nsw.gov.au
Report: crime rates stable or falling in NSW
(18/04/07)
Figures released today by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) show the incidence of most major crimes have fallen or remained stable in NSW.
Over the 24 months to December 2006, the recorded incidence of:
- Break and enter (dwelling) fell by 4.1 per cent
- Break and enter (non-dwelling) fell by 2.4 per cent
- Motor vehicle theft fell by 3.0 per cent
- Steal from person fell by 6.8 per cent
A 4.3 per cent increase in malicious damage to property was the only significant upward trend amongst the 17 major crime categories.
The media release and full text of the report 'New South Wales Recorded Crime Statistics 2006' are available on the BOCSAR's website.
UN convention on disability rights ratified
(12/04/07)
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has been ratified, following representations worldwide, including submissions by the Attorney General’s Department of NSW.
The Department contributed a number of submissions during the consultation period.
Australia was among the first countries to sign the convention at the UN Headquarters in New York.
The convention aims to ensure people with disabilities enjoy equal human rights, freedom and dignity.
New Attorney General, Minister for Justice named
(30/03/07)
The Premier Morris Iemma has named John Hatzistergos as the state’s new Attorney General, Minister for Justice and Minister for Juvenile Justice.
Mr Hatzistergos replaces Bob Debus, who retired after almost seven years in the job. He becomes the state's 54th Attorney General.
Mr Hatzistergos was elected to the Upper House in 1999 and has held several portfolios since, including Minister for Health, Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Justice and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship.
Mr Hatzistergos was awarded a Bachelor of Economics in 1982, Bachelor of Laws in 1983 and Master of Laws in 1994. He is a former Senior Legal Officer with the Commonwealth DPP and has been a member of the NSW Bar Association since 1989.
Update: There was a change to the Attorney General's portfolio on 11 April 2007 when Auburn MP Barbara Perry was appointed Minister for Juvenile Justice. John Hatzistergos remains Attorney General and Minister for Justice.
Test your knowledge of crime rates
Do you know the proportion of people who appeared in court before their 21st birthdays? Or the types of cars most popular with thieves? Or the peak day for malicious damage?
Test your knowledge of NSW crime rates on the quiz put together by the Bureau of Crime Statistics & Research for Law Week (25-31 March).
Take the quiz
Copying other people’s stuff not so bad in the noughties
(26/03/07)
In December 2006, amendments to the Copyright Act 1968 gave individuals unprecedented freedom to lawfully make and use copies of media including music, television broadcasts, videos, books, printed news media, and
artwork. This liberty is not, however, unlimited or guaranteed.
NSW Young Lawyers presents two free public events on this topic of relevance to the public, the arts community, and the legal community. These events in Sydney coincide with Arts Law Week – an initiative of the Arts Law Centre of Australia - and National Law Week.
Knowing what can be lawfully copied is not easy for the average user, such as a home user wanting to copy and share a music or video collection, or for the more sophisticated user, such as a blogger wanting to copy and publish television excerpts, magazine pages, podcasts, or text on a website.
- Users may be surprised to learn from legal experts what they can and cannot legally copy and use.
- By knowing and observing the limits, users may avoid the consequences of copyright infringement.
- Copyright owners will be eager to learn how their intellectual property can be legally copied.
Private use copyright forum – from Laptop to ipod to fridge door.
Thursday 29 March 2007, 4:30-6:00pm
Discover answers to frequently asked and curious questions about copying popular media for ‘private use’.
- Kate Haddock - Banki Haddock Fiora Lawyers
- Scot Morris - APRA/AMCOS
- Sally Hanson - Australian Copyright Council
- Adam Flynn - Australian Copyright Council & NSW Young Lawyers
New & Old fair dealings – What can I copy?
Friday 30 March 2007, 12:00-1:30pm
Identify the practical implications of the recent extension of 'fair Dealing’ by reference to the facts in ‘The Panel’ case. View excerpts from ‘The Panel’ and hear the verdict on what is now a ‘fair dealing’ for the purposes of criticism or review, reporting the news, and parody or satire.
- Karen Gettens – Blake Dawson Waldron Lawyers
- Lyn Kemmis – Special Broadcasting Service (SBS)
- Eloise Schnierer – NSW Legal Aid Commission & NSW Young Lawyers
Bookings are recommended.
Telephone: (02) 9356 2566
Email: artslaw@artslaw.com.au
Venue: Rex Centre – a short walk from Kings Cross Station
58A Macleay Street Potts Point (entrance near Baroda Street)
Law Week 2007 underway
(26/03/07)
The Attorney General’s Department of NSW is reaching out to regional Indigenous communities with a special program of events during Law Week 2007 (25-31 March).
The events include visits by Aboriginal client service specialists to various schools around the state, court tours, information sessions and a children’s court forum.
Correcting the over-representation of indigenous people in court processes is one of the priorities of the Attorney General’s Department.
Interagency forums have also been organised to educate young people about how justice services and the courts deal with drink driving offences. The ‘What happens if I get caught drink driving’ forums will be held at Parkes and Coffs Harbour.
Members of the legal profession will be visiting primary schools throughout NSW to promote the children’s book ‘Why Should I? A fun way to learn more about the law’ and an interactive website www.whyshouldi.com.au based on the book.
These special events are in addition to the numerous Law Week events being presented for the general community. The Department is staging about 45 events during Law Week.
Law Week events aim to promote greater understanding of the law, legal system and legal profession and improve access to legal services.
>> Click here to view the complete Law Week Program on the official Law Week website managed by the Law Society.
>> Click here to view the AGD Law Week events on the Lawlink website.
Daylight saving ends on Sunday 25 March
(21/03/07)
Daylight saving ends on Sunday 25 March 2007 at 3 am when clocks are put back one hour.
More information
Public seminar: privacy and you
(15/03/07)
The New South Wales Law Reform Commission is holding a public lunchtime seminar on a person’s right to privacy as part of Law Week 2007 celebrations.
Professor Michael Tilbury, Commissioner in charge of the NSW Law Reform Commission’s review of privacy laws, will outline the scope of the privacy review. Attendees are invited to ask questions and raise issues about this law reform topic.
The privacy review resulted from a request by the Attorney General for the Commission to inquire into and report on whether existing legislation in NSW provides an effective framework for the protection of the privacy of an individual.
In particular, the Commission is to consider the desirability of:
privacy protection principles being uniform across Australia
a consistent legislative approach to privacy under various NSW statutes
introducing a statutory tort of privacy in NSW.
All interested members of the general public and the legal profession are invited to attend.
Bookings are required
Date: Monday 26 March 2007
Time: 12.30pm – 1.30pm
Venue: Jubilee Room, Parliament House, Macquarie Street, Sydney
Contact Person: Wendy Stokoe for bookings; Robyn Johansson for information on the event
E-mail: Wendy_Stokoe@agd.nsw.gov.au; Robyn_Johansson@agd.nsw.gov.au
Telephone: (02) 9228 8230
Is privacy good business? Have your say
(15/03/07)
The Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) is holding a public meeting in Sydney on the topic 'Is Privacy Good Business? Have Your Say'.
The meeting is part of the ALRC's major review of Australia's privacy laws and will be held at the Sydney Masonic Centre, Goulburn St, at 6pm on 19 March 2007.
Visit the ALRC website at www.alrc.gov.au for more information.
‘Better Together’ strategy unveiled
(12/03/07)
The NSW Government has launched Better Together: A new direction to make NSW Government services better for people with a disability and their families.
Better Together aims to ensure vital public services which are available to everyone such as transport, health, education and housing, are also better able to meet the needs of people with a disability and their families.
>> Click here for accessible formats to the report which is also available in these languages:
- Arabic
- Chinese
- Croatian
- Filipino
- Greek
- Italian
- Korean
- Macedonian
- Spanish
- Vietnamese
For copies of the publication in print, Braille, audio cassette or audio CD please email publications@dadhc.nsw.gov.au.
NSW Women Lawyers Achievement Awards
(09/03/07)
WLANSW is re-launching the NSW Women Lawyers Achievement Awards for outstanding women lawyers who have achieved excellence in their area of practice, while advancing opportunities for women in the law. These awards were last presented at the 50th Anniversary dinner in 2002.
All members and their colleagues are invited to attend a cocktail party on Thursday 29 March 2007, during Law Week, to celebrate the re-launch of the Awards. The Launch will mark the opening of a 3-month period in which nominations for the Awards will be open, and is an opportunity for attendees to find out more about the Awards, obtain nomination forms, and mingle with their colleagues.
>> Click here for bookings and further information.
Review of the dust diseases claims resolution process
(01/03/07)
The Government initiated a review in August 2006 of the Claims Resolution Process for dust diseases claims. A report outlining the review's conclusions was published in January 2007. While no major changes were proposed for the Claims Resolution Process, a number of recommendations were made for minor amendments to improve its operation.
As the Dust Diseases Tribunal Regulation 2001 is due for staged repeal on 1 September 2007, the government also released for public comment the proposed Dust Diseases Tribunal Regulation 2007 and a regulatory impact statement, in compliance with the Subordinate Legislation Act 1989.
For more details, visit the Legislation & Policy Division website on Lawlink.
Justices of the Peace Act under review
(28/02/07)
The NSW Attorney General is reviewing the Justices of the Peace Act 2002.
The aim of the review is to determine whether the policy objectives of the Act remain valid and whether the terms of the Act remain appropriate for securing those objectives.
The Justices of the Peace Act 2002 provides for a legislative framework to govern the appointment, functions and regulation of Justices of the Peace.
A copy of the Act can be accessed at http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au.
The NSW Attorney General’s Department invites interested individuals and organisations to make written submissions to the review.
Submissions should be sent to the Director, Legislation and Policy Division, NSW Attorney General’s Department, GPO Box 6, Sydney NSW 2001 or emailed to: lpd_inquiries@agd.nsw.gov.au. The closing date for submissions is 1 June 2007.
New resource on same sex legal rights
(16/02/07)
The Attorney General's Department has launched a new website to provide information to the gay and lesbian community about their legal rights in NSW.
'Understanding Your Legal Rights' updates the Acts of Passion resource that was first published by the Attorney General’s Department in 1999.
The resource provides legal information about discrimination and unfair dismissal, age of consent, property rights, immigration, privacy and superannuation.
View the new website. 
Registry hit by Cupid's arrow
(12/02/07)
Love will be all around the NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages on Valentine's Day.
Twenty-nine couples will tie the knot in romantic ceremonies at registry offices in Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong. 
On 14 February, registry marriage officers will marry couples from 7.30 am to 8.30 pm.
Sydney registry marriage officer Marianne Lea said Valentine's Day was a popular day to get married.
"There is something really exciting and special about getting married on Valentine's Day,” she said.
“This year we had to increase the number of marriage bookings in order to meet demand and it keeps getting bigger every year!"
To celebrate the special day, the bride and groom will receive a long stem red rose and the commemorative pen they use in the ceremony.
To find out more about getting married at the registry, visit www.bdm.nsw.gov.au.
Public Defenders Criminal Law Conference 2007
(1/2/07)
The Public Defenders welcomes all criminal law practitioners to attend their annual criminal law conference on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 March 2007.
This year’s conference has a stellar list of excellent presenters, including Major Michael Mori the counsel for David Hicks, covering both practical and topical subjects.
Bookings are required by Thursday 22 February 2007.
View the Conference Flyer.
NSW courts best in key categories
(31/01/07)
NSW has strengthened its reputation for having the best performing court system in Australia, following the release of the Report on Government Services 2007.
The report found NSW district, local and children’s courts were number one in Australia for the timeliness in which they dealt with criminal matters.
It was the fourth consecutive year NSW local courts (which handle 95 per cent of the state’s criminal matters) have achieved this result.
The report showed that NSW district and supreme courts were working through new cases efficiently as well as finalising a number of cases that pre date 2006.
The NSW Supreme Court had the nation’s best clearance rate for criminal non-appeal matters. Three years ago, it was ranked last.
According to the report, the net cost of finalising a court case in NSW has fallen by five per cent to $602, which is on par with the national average.
Critical Link 5 Conference
(30/1/07)
Critical Link 5 Quality in interpreting: a shared responsibility of 11-15 April 2007 is an international conference that aims to generate discussion on:
· the meaning of quality in interpreting,
· the responsibility for quality interpreting in community and government settings being shared by all those involved,
· the expectations of all those involved in the interpreted encounter, the demands placed on interpreters to provide a quality service.
The conference will be held in Parramatta and include presenters from the legal, health, community, government and academic sectors. For more information contact Julia Haraksin, Manager Diversity Services on 9228 8460 or Julia_Haraksin@agd.nsw.gov.au or http://www.criticallink2007.com
The early bird price of only $680.00 ends on 19 February 2007. (Saving $125.00!)
Review of the dust diseases claims resolution process
(16/01/07)
Submissions are being invited as part of a NSW Government review of the Claims Resolution Process for Dust Diseases Claims.
A new report outlines the review’s conclusions in relation to the matters raised in last October’s issues paper.
The Dust Diseases Tribunal Regulation 2001 is due for staged repeal on 1 September 2007 in accordance with the Subordinate Legislation Act.
Accordingly, the government is releasing the proposed Dust Diseases Tribunal Regulation 2007. It incorporates minor changes recommended by the Report of the Current Review of the Claims Resolution Process and a Regulatory Impact Statement.
Submissions are now invited on the proposed Dust Diseases Tribunal Regulation 2007and the associated regulatory impact statement.
Details on making submissions are contained in the report.
More details>>
Legislative changes for victims of crime
(04/01/07)
There have been some important amendments relating to support and compensation for victims of crime.
These changes are the result of the Government's statutory review of the Victims Support and Rehabilitation Act 1996 and the Victims Rights Act 1996. Some of these amendments took effect from 22 December 2006.
A Victims Assistance Scheme is being established to further enhance the rehabilitation support available to victims of crime. The Scheme will reimburse certain expenses incurred as a result of an act of violence where the injuries sustained fall below the statutory threshold.
Also, eligibility to apply for free counselling under the Approved Counselling Scheme has been extended to victims who received compensation under the repealed Victims Compensation Act (1987).
Other amendments include:
- The definition of injury in the Victims Support and Rehabilitation Act 1996 has been changed. A victim will no longer be required to prove a disorder but rather prove they have suffered actual physical bodily harm, or psychological or psychiatric harm.
One important effect of this change is that victims of sexual assault and domestic violence will now not need a report from a professional establishing a psychological or psychiatric disorder when claiming the compensable injury of domestic violence or sexual assault.
- The Victims Rights Act 1996 has been amended so that the Charter of Victims Rights now includes the right that a victim be treated with cultural sensitivity.
Details about the other amendments are available at: www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/vs
Reoffending by young people cautioned or conferenced
(03/01/07)
Juveniles who receive a caution or a youth justice conference are less likely to re-offend than those who are referred to the Children’s Court, a new report by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research has found.
The Bureau's research found only a small proportion of those cautioned (5.2 per cent) or conferenced (10.8 per cent) committed an offence serious enough to warrant a custodial sentence within five years.
For more details: www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/bocsar
Juror perceptions of child sexual assault trials
(03/01/07)
Most jurors in child sexual assault cases find the use of CCTV and pre-recorded evidence very helpful, according to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research.
In the first-ever study of its kind in NSW and only the second ever conducted in Australia, the Bureau was granted permission to interview 277 jurors from 25 juries hearing child sexual assault trials in the NSW District Court between May 2004 and December 2005
The aim of the survey was to explore jurors’ perceptions of the fairness of the trial process where CCTV and pre-recorded evidence are used (to reduce the stress on the child of either seeing the defendant or being in the courtroom).
For more details: www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/bocsar
Relationship between petrol theft and petrol prices
(03/01/07)
Every 10 cent increase in the price of a litre of petrol generates another 120 incidents of petrol theft (technically: service station fraud) per month, according to a new report released today by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR).
The Bureau predicts that if petrol prices reach $1.70, the number of incidents of petrol theft will climb to 1,600 per month.
Incidents of service station fraud rose by 33 per cent in the 24 months to June this year. Petrol prices and service station fraud have eased since peaking in May but petrol prices can be expected to increase over the Christmas period.
For more details: www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/bocsar
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