The Australian Laywer’s Alliance “Doing More Harm Than Good: The need for a health-focused approach to drug use” report clearly shows that a national approach to harm minimisation is long overdue.
“The legal and medical sectors have been saying for decades that treating drug use as a criminal matter, rather than a health issue does not work”, Australian Greens Health spokesperson Senator Rachel Siewert said today.
“Criminalising drug use does not stop people from using drugs, it exacerbates harm.
“Addiction and substance abuse is a health issue and we as a community need to treat it that way.
“Stigmatising people with punitive approaches rather than addressing the underlying issues only drives people further from the help and support they need and causes further harm.
“If we want to assist people with addiction and substance abuse issues we need to take a harm minimisation approach and penalise dealers not users.
“This report also highlights that people are still struggling to access medicinal cannabis which for many people is one of the few things that give them quality of life.
“People should not be denied quality of life just because the Government hasn’t got their act together to legislate a regulatory model that actually works and means that people can access the treatments they need. ”
National Cabinet
The National Cabinet met today to discuss Australia’s COVID-19 response and the Australian COVID-19 Vaccine Strategy.
National Cabinet continues to work together to address issues and find solutions to the health and economic consequences of COVID-19.
The Chief Medical Officer, Professor Paul Kelly, provided an update on the latest epidemiological data and medical advice in relation to COVID-19.
There have been 29,020 confirmed cases in Australia and, sadly, 909 people have died. There are currently 24 people in hospital. More than 14.5 million tests have been undertaken in Australia.
To date Australia’s existing systems built around social distancing, testing, tracing, local health responses and quarantine have effectively mitigated the broader spread of COVID-19 virus and new variants of COVID-19 into the Australian community. COVID-19 vaccines will further strengthen Australia’s ability to control the virus.
Australia has done well on both the health and economic fronts compared to most countries around the world. National Cabinet noted the significant increase in COVID-19 cases in many countries and the comparative strength of Australia’s effort in addressing COVID compared to most other developed economies. Globally there have been over 115.5 million cases and sadly over 2.5 million deaths, with around 446,000 new cases reported in the last 24 hours.
National Cabinet received a detailed update from Professor Brendan Murphy, Chair of the Science and Industry Technical Advisory Group, and the Commonwealth Chief Medical Officer, Professor Paul Kelly on the Australian Vaccination and Treatment Strategy.
Australia’s COVID-19 vaccine roll out is on track. To date 71,867 Australians have received their first shot of the COVID-19 vaccine.
The Commonwealth Government has allocated over $6 billion to support the vaccine roll out with contracts for over 150 million COVID-19 vaccines, through a diverse vaccine portfolio. Since the last meeting of National Cabinet, the roll out of the Pfizer vaccine commenced on 22 February 2020, with first vaccinations of the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine starting today in South Australia. Onshore supply of the AstraZeneca vaccine is on track to commence during the week commencing 22 March 2021. The COVID-19 Vaccine and Treatment Strategy, agreed by National Cabinet, prioritises those Australians most at risk of COVID-19, including Australia’s front line health workers, aged care residents and staff and quarantine workers.
National Cabinet also discussed this week’s economic growth figures which showed that in the December quarter the Australian economy grew a record 3.1 per cent, the second consecutive quarter above 3 per cent.
The Australian economy has now recovered 85 per cent of its COVID-induced fall, six months earlier and twice as fast as expected in the October Budget.
Our recovery continues to lead the world with our economy outperforming all other advanced economies in 2020. While the United Kingdom contracted by 9.9 per cent, Italy 8.9 per cent, France 8.2 per cent, Canada 5 per cent, Japan 4.8 per cent, the United States 3.3 per cent, Australia was only down by 2.5 per cent.
These results occurred at a time when emergency support was tapering off, with the private sector stepping up. In the December quarter, direct economic support from the Federal Government halved, yet at the same time, the economy grew by 3.1 per cent, 320,000 jobs were added and 2.1 million Australian workers graduated off JobKeeper.
National Cabinet will meet again on Friday 9 April 2021.
COVID-19 Risk Analysis and Response
Today the National Cabinet received the first report from the COVID-19 Risk Analysis and Response Taskforce (Taskforce), led by the Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Mr Phil Gaetjens.
The Taskforce advised on Australia’s risk profile over the next six months and options for changing policy settings to ensure greater consistency and coordination across jurisdictions in the management of the pandemic.
The Taskforce identified several factors influencing Australia’s changing risk profile, including improvements in testing and tracing; improvements in quarantine practices; the vaccine rollout; vaccine effectiveness against transmission; and new variants of the virus.
Reopening the economy is critical for Australia’s international competitiveness. If we do not progress our economic reopening as the vaccine rollout occurs, we may fall behind our international competitors.
There are some unknowns in Australia’s changing risk profile. Decision-making related to reopening the economy will be informed by expert advice on the economic, social and health considerations.
Over coming months, the Taskforce will consider the changing risk environment in 2021; the impact of Australia’s vaccine rollout; economic, social and health considerations; and options to implement consistent policy settings across jurisdictions to ensure predictability and community confidence.
The Taskforce will continue to report to the National Cabinet monthly.
Pacific Workers
National Cabinet agreed to pilot pre-departure quarantine arrangements for Pacific workers in their home countries. South Australia has indicated its intention to opt into the arrangement to support their local agriculture sector, subject to finalisation of arrangements. Other states are considering the arrangement with further details of in-country testing and quarantine arrangements.
Since the National Cabinet agreed to recommence the Seasonal Worker Programme and Pacific Labour Scheme more than 2,600 Pacific and Timorese workers have arrived in Australia. However, there remains significant labour shortages and more support for our agriculture sector is needed.
The Government will explore in-country quarantine arrangements for Pacific workers with eligible, low-risk Pacific Neighbours.
COVID-19 Vaccination Roll Out Strategy
National Cabinet noted the detailed vaccine roll out plans. Published efficacy data, particularly from the United Kingdom, strongly supports Australia’s choice of both the roll out of the Pfizer and the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccines.
The Commonwealth, states and territories are progressively scaling up vaccination sites as increased supplies of vaccines become available.
National Cabinet agreed that states and territories should harmonise legislation and regulation to allow COVID-19 vaccinations to occur in community pharmacies.
International Passenger Arrival Caps
National Cabinet reaffirmed a shared priority to supporting Australians to return home.
Current international passenger arrival caps will continue to 30 April 2021 pending a further review of arrangements at the next meeting of National Cabinet.
National Cabinet noted Western Australia’s staged return to a cap of 1025 passengers per week from 26 March which commenced with an increase to 900 passengers per week on 1 March. This follows a decision by the WA Government to reduce the number of international air arrivals as it undertakes a review of hotel quarantine processes.
National Cabinet also noted a commitment from Victoria to resume international passenger flights into Melbourne as soon as possible. International flights into Victoria were suspended on 13 February with the exception of flights under the New Zealand safe travel zone arrangement, and international freight.
Howard Springs
The Commonwealth and Northern Territory Governments reached agreement to increase the capacity of the Centre for National Resilience at Howard Springs after the end of the cyclone season in the Northern Territory.
This will increase the capacity of Howard Springs from 850 persons per fortnight to 2,000 persons per fortnight with a ramp up from late April 2021, subject to capital works, and full capacity between June and December 2021.
The Commonwealth Government will also continue to support repatriation flights for Australians through to the end of 2021, as required.
Final details are being worked through including the scope of works required to upgrade the facility, and strategies to recruit additional clinical and welfare staff.
The Centre for National Resilience is the Commonwealth Government’s response to the National Cabinet commissioned National Review of Hotel Quarantine conducted by Ms Jane Halton, AO PSM.
ROADMAP TO REFORM ROLLED OUT FOR INFRASTRUCTURE CONTRIBUTIONS
The NSW Government will undertake major reforms to the infrastructure contributions system, unlocking up to $12 billion in productivity benefits through changes to how public facilities and services are funded through the planning system.
Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes today announced the Government had accepted the NSW Productivity Commission’s 29 recommendations for legislative, policy and operational reform of infrastructure charges.
“These important reforms will ensure communities across the State will have the services and facilities they need and is an example of the type of microeconomic reform that will boost productivity and make NSW an even more attractive place to live and invest,” Mr Perrottet said.
“These changes will help drive our economic recovery from the pandemic by providing local jobs on smaller-scale infrastructure projects by encouraging investment in new housing supply and in the end will create better connected communities.”
The NSW Government will publish its blueprint to implement the recommendations and how it will be delivered in the next 18 months.
“This is the biggest shake-up of the system in three decades and could deliver billions of dollars of benefits over the next 20 years through better services, savings for business and better public spaces,” Mr Stokes said.
“Solving the uncertainty of infrastructure contributions was one of four pillars of our Planning Reform Action Plan. That’s why we’re adopting the Productivity Commission’s recommendations in full to build a more timely, transparent and certain planning system.
“New and growing communities need new roads, parks, schools and hospitals, and it is imperative industry and communities have a clear understanding of how these services get delivered.
Alongside changes to the local government rate peg methodology, we’re getting the settings right for local communities to proactively plan for growth. Digital tools will also help create certainty for investors, communities and local government.
The NSW Government will introduce amendments to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 to the Parliament in coming months to facilitate the recommendations.
The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment will establish consultation groups to work with local government, industry and the community on the implementation process.
For more information visit www.planning.nsw.gov.au/infrastructure-contributions-reform.
COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS TO EASE AT SCHOOLS
Restrictions in NSW schools will be eased to allow parents back on to school grounds, dancing activities to proceed and singing groups to recommence in a COVID-safe way, the NSW Government announced today.
Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell announced the following restrictions will be eased on Monday, 8 March 2021:
- Parents and caretakers are able to enter school grounds but should continue to follow COVID-safe practices, including physical distancing.
- Parents and caretakers can attend school sporting events. School sporting should align with requirements for community sporting competitions and training activities in NSW.
- There are no recommended limits on singing groups in schools, including for in-class educational activities such as group repetition, chanting, recitation, or singing activities. Five metres is recommended between a group of performing singers and the audience, where practicable.
- Dancing activities, including dance classes, balls, formals and social events, can proceed, but organisers should select venues with adequate floor space to comply with any venue restrictions.
- Gathering of parents and community members for school events, such as P&C meetings, can continue in a COVID-safe way.
Ms Mitchell thanked NSW school communities for their patience and innovative thinking during the pandemic.
“We are grateful to parents, teachers and principals who have worked tirelessly to keep school communities safe during the pandemic and ensure students continue to receive a high-quality education,” Ms Mitchell said.
“I am pleased parents are now allowed to return to school grounds, watch school sports and be involved again in school activities.
“Schools will continue to operate in a COVID-safe way with less restrictions in place. Hand sanitiser and enhanced cleaning will remain in place in all schools.”
Health Minister Brad Hazzard thanked school communities for following the health advice.
“NSW started its vaccine rollout and we have been able to ease restrictions, including in schools, which is a terrific achievement,” Mr Hazzard said.
“However, the pandemic is not over yet. We still need principals, teachers, parents and students to continue to follow the health advice while at the same time enabling parents to support their children’s studies.”
Teachers, students or parents who have COVID-19 symptoms should not attend school until a negative test has been received.
Detailed guidance for schools has been updated to reflect these changes and principals are pleased to welcome parents and carers back to school.
Schools will continue to have COVID-19 Safety Plans and record keeping procedures in place. Visitors to NSW public schools must still use of the Service NSW QR Code system at the school’s reception.
WOMEN’S SPORT FUNDING BOOST
Sports can apply for up to $650,000 in grants to assist women’s sport following the opening of the NSW Government’s Her Sport Her Way Grant Program.
The Her Sport Her Way Grant Program provides more than $2.5 million over four years to State Sporting Organisations and State Sporting Organisations for People with Disability to help increase participation, promote leadership and encourage inclusivity.
Minister for Sport Geoff Lee said the NSW Government is committed to improving the participation of women in sport as players and leaders.
“With International Women’s Day next week it is the perfect time for sports to consider innovative ways to get more women and girls involved in sport, both on and off the field,” Mr Lee said.
Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said the program will be a great way to bring communities together and promote leadership.
“We’re committed to building a safer, stronger NSW, and this means enabling women by increasing opportunities to participate and making sure every woman and girl can enjoy their sport to the fullest and feel at ease before and after they hit the field.”
The Her Sport Her Way Grants Program is part of the NSW Government’s strategy to deliver positive change for women’s sport in NSW.
Grants of $10,000 – $50,000 are available with Sports able to seek grants for multiple projects across various locations.
In 2019, 23 sporting organisations shared $635,000 in grants for 27 projects, including triathlon, water polo and wheelchair sports.
Triathlon NSW delivered a series of women-only triathlons across eleven locations with a focus on 12-25 year old females who had never participated in the sport before under the theme ‘finish lines, not finish times’.
“The Her Sport Her Way Grant Program enabled 11 of our clubs across NSW to run very successful and beginner-friendly multisport events for women of all ages,” Triathlon NSW lead staff on the ‘Her Sport Her Way’ program, Alana Leabeater said.
“We received wonderful feedback from first-time triathletes who thrived in the welcoming and supportive atmosphere at these events, and who are looking forward to continuing their triathlon journey with their local club this season.”
Water Polo NSW used its grant to deliver the ‘Girls Making Waves’ program which introduces girls to basic water polo skills and team building in a fun environment.
“Girls Making Waves provides girls in regional and metro NSW with the opportunity to try water polo, splash around in inflatable tubes and quite simply have fun,” Vice President Water Polo NSW Suzanne Ramke said.
Wheelchair Sports NSW created the Roll Model series to increase the visibility of female role models in disability sport which included the How I Roll anthem featuring ARIA nominated vocalist Casey Donovan.
“Our Her Sport Her Way Grant allowed us to reach girls and women with disabilities through the passion point of music. The ‘How I Roll’ campaign will have a lasting legacy for female participation in wheelchair sport,” CEO of Wheelchair Sports NSW/ACT Mick Garnett said.
The Her Sport Her Way Grants Program is open until 12 April 2021. For further information visit:www.sport.nsw.gov.au/clubs/grants/her-sport-her-way
Double stabbing near Cessnock
Police will address the media this morning after two men were stabbed near Cessnock overnight.
About 1.50am (Friday 5 March 2021), emergency services were called to a home on Shalistan Street, Cliftleigh, about 20km north-east of Cessnock, following reports two men were fighting and had been stabbed.
On arrival, police found a 23-year-old man with stab wounds to the chest and head. He was treated at the scene before being taken to John Hunter Hospital. He remains in a stable condition.
Police were then told a second man left the scene prior to their arrival.
A short time later, police were notified when the 27-year-old man attended Maitland Hospital suffering stab wounds to the chest and neck. He was later taken to John Hunter Hospital where he is reported to be in a critical condition.
Officers from Hunter Valley Police District established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Motorcyclist dies – Cardiff
A motorcyclist has died following a two-vehicle crash in Lake Macquarie this morning.
About 11.40am today (Friday 5 March 2021), emergency services were called to the intersection of Mitchell Road and Ranton Street, Cardiff, following reports a motorcycle travelling north and a truck travelling south had collided.
The motorcyclist, a man believed to be aged in his 70s, was ejected before being trapped underneath a stationary vehicle until the arrival of emergency services; where he was pronounced deceased.
The 46-year-old male truck driver and the female driver of the vehicle were uninjured and taken to John Hunter Hospital for mandatory testing.
Officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District established a crime scene and have commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or who may have dashcam footage is urged to come forward.
Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson honoured on 5th anniversary of his passing
Media are invited to Raymond Terrace Police Station tomorrow (Friday 5 March 2021), as the Port Stephens-Hunter Police District dedicates its multi-purpose training room facilities in honour of Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson.
Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson from the Port Stephens Local Area Command was killed when the police car he was driving crashed into a tree on Lovedale Road, Allandale, around 11.50pm five years ago tomorrow (Saturday 5 March 2016).
At the time, Sergeant Richardson had been driving to assist colleagues who were engaged in a pursuit. He was the only person in the car at the time of the crash.
On the fifth anniversary of his passing, Sergeant Richardson will be remembered by his final command, with the station’s multi-purpose training room at Raymond Terrace Police Station being dedicated in his name.
Aged Care work must start today
The Greens say that the Aged Care system is fundamentally broken and there needs to be a sense of urgency in fixing it.
“The Royal Commissioners set out a five year process and the work needs to start today”, Senator Rachel Siewert said.
“This reform needs to be underpinned by a new aged care act based on a human rights approach.
“For too long, aged care has been put in the too hard basket. The Royal Commission Report clearly shows that years of tinkering around the edges has fundamentally failed older Australians.
“The funding that the Government announced yesterday is not close to enough. We have to see more in the budget.
“There is no point being sorry and distressed by what has occurred if we don’t see concrete plans for substantive reform and the commitment to adequately fund them.
“The Government must act on the most serious breaches of human rights against older Australians and an essential part of that is to move swiftly to reduce and eliminate the use of restraints in aged care.
“The use of physical or chemical restraints for control, punishment, retaliation or as a measure of convenience must be prohibited. Medicines should only ever be used for therapeutic purposes and with the free and informed consent of the person receiving them or their nominee.
“Older Australians will not be properly cared for and protected until the workforce is adequately paid and trained and the number of hours of care are increased.
“Aged Care workers can no longer be seen as collateral damage in this failed system.
“For too long those doing some of the most important work in our community have been overworked and underpaid. We must value the work that they do.”
Greens say Christian Porter must stand down pending an independent inquiry
The Attorney General must stand down and there must be an independent inquiry into the rape allegations, otherwise there will be a chilling effect on survivors speaking out, said the Greens today following the revelation of the identity of the cabinet minister.
“Today’s press conference by Christian Porter denying the rape allegations will have been extremely distressing to sexual assault survivors everywhere,” said Larissa Waters, Greens Leader in the Senate and spokesperson on women.
“After the powerful speech by Grace Tame encouraging survivors to speak out, the subtext of the Attorney-General’s denials and of the Prime Minister’s dismissal of the allegations earlier this week, is that the government doesn’t believe women.
“Mr Porter’s statement is a message to all survivors of sexual assault and rape that this government does not believe them. It will have a chilling effect on survivors and will almost certainly dissuade others from coming forward.
“Women don’t need any more discouragement from reporting sexual assault and rape, already they face disbelief from the justice system and this is why so few rapes are reported and even fewer rapists are convicted.
“The Prime Minister said two years ago that he believed victims – but actions speak louder than words. The Prime Minister exonerated Mr Porter after a brief chat, but didn’t even read the 30 page dossier of allegations from the woman.
“These are serious allegations made in circumstances in which a police investigation is no longer possible. Rather than simply dismissing the claims on the basis of Mr Porter’s assurance, the Prime Minister should initiate an inquiry to satisfy himself as to whether Mr Porter is suitable to hold a position in his Cabinet.
“Mr Porter must stand aside for the duration of an independent inquiry into these allegations. It is untenable for him to remain in the role and untenable for the Prime Minister not to order an independent inquiry.
“The Greens support calls from the alleged victim’s lawyer, family and friends for a Heydon-style independent investigation. Parliament should be setting the standard for good behaviour, not using flimsy arguments about precedent setting and ancient history to protect the boys club.”