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PART 04

ACCOUNTABILITY REPORTING

214 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND AGEING

PART

4.14.1 ADVERTISING AND MARKET RESEARCH

The Department communicates with the Australian community about key health and ageing issues and related government policies and programs. The Department promotes community awareness and also seeks the community’s views on matters relating to health and ageing.

The Department is required to report on all payments over $10,300 (GST inclusive) to specific types of organisations. These organisations are advertising agencies, market research organisations, polling organisations, media advertising organisations, and direct mail organisations. Details of payments to these organisations are set out below.

Advertising Agencies

Organisation Service Provided Paid $ (GST Incl)#

BMF Advertising Pty Ltd Development of the creative and advertising strategy for the rollout of Opal fuel in Alice Springs.

146,952

BMF Advertising Pty Ltd Creative advertising services for the National Human Papillomavirus Campaign.

165,486

BMF Advertising Pty Ltd Advertising Tool Kit Colour Photography – Pandemic Influenza Communications.

28,292

BMF Advertising Pty Ltd Advertising Tool Kit Footage – Pandemic Influenza Communications.

216,711

BMF Advertising Pty Ltd Advertising Tool Kit Photo Retouching – Pandemic Influenza Communications.

52,987

BMF Advertising Pty Ltd Advertising Tool Kit Set design and build – Pandemic Influenza Communications.

14,250

BMF Advertising Pty Ltd Advertising Tool Kit ‘Presenter’ Casting (1st stage) – Pandemic Influenza Communications.

17,077

BMF Advertising Pty Ltd Advertising Tool Kit ‘Presenter’ Casting (2nd stage) – Pandemic Influenza Communications.

16,758

BMF Advertising Pty Ltd Concept development – Pandemic Influenza Communications.

55,000

BMF Advertising Pty Ltd Strategic planning, proposals and costs estimates – Pandemic Influenza Communications.

165,196

BMF Advertising Pty Ltd Creative advertising services for the National Skin Cancer Awareness Campaign.

378,671

BMF Advertising Pty Ltd Talent fees for the National Tobacco Campaign. 28,507

Campaign Palace/Red Cell Creative advertising services for the National Illicit Drugs Campaign.

163,382

The 303 Group Creative consultancy for development of Asthma Campaign materials.

217,191

215ANNUAL REPORT 2006–07

PART

4.1Organisation Service Provided Paid $ (GST Incl)#

The Sydney Furnace Pty Ltd Creative advertising services for the National Tobacco Youth Campaign.

278,371

Whybin/TBWA and Partners Pty Ltd

Creative services in relation to advertising materials for the Private Health Insurance Communication Campaign.

403,007

# The amount of money paid is the amount paid in creative head hours. Recruitment and tender notices are not required to be reported under this item.

Market Research Organisations

Organisation Service Provided Paid $ (GST Incl)

Blue Moon Unit Trust* Developmental research for the Australian Better Health Initiative.

164,505

Blue Moon Unit Trust* Concept testing research for the Australian Better Health Initiative Social Marketing Campaigns.

230,560

Blue Moon Unit Trust Qualitative research into the communication needs of visually impaired women in the cervical screening target age range of 18–69 years.

16,500

Blue Moon Unit Trust* National Drugs Campaign Phase 3: Research to determine currency and effectiveness of National Drugs Campaign Phase 2.

77,000

Blue Moon Unit Trust* Concept testing of resources for the National Drugs Campaign (Round 1).

123,090

Blue Moon Unit Trust* Second round concept testing for ‘Ice’ creative materials for the National Drugs Campaign.

40,755

Blue Moon Unit Trust* Concept testing for the National Drugs Campaign – Evaluation of Parents Booklet.

34,430

Blue Moon Unit Trust* Final concept testing of creative materials for the National Drugs Campaign.

59,950

Blue Moon Unit Trust* Developmental research for the Alerting the Community to Links between Illicit Drugs and Mental Illness Campaign.

407,000

Blue Moon Unit Trust* Developmental research for the National Eye Health Public Education Campaign.

131,890

Blue Moon Unit Trust* Quantitative research for the National Eye Health Public Education Campaign.

110,000

Blue Moon Unit Trust* Formative research for the new National Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Program.

178,343

Blue Moon Unit Trust Evaluation of the 8th Australian Immunisation Handbook.

26,268


PART

4.1Organisation Service Provided Paid $ (GST Incl)

Blue Moon Unit Trust Analysis of existing material describing reasons for barriers to immunisation uptake in adults and children.

43,890

Blue Moon Unit Trust Literature review on childhood and adult immunisation.

30,723

Blue Moon Unit Trust Concept testing of pandemic influenza communication materials.

20,773

Blue Moon Unit Trust Pregnancy Support Counselling developmental research.

109,010

Blue Moon Unit Trust* Concept testing for the National Pregnancy Support Helpline.

56,650

Blue Moon Unit Trust* Focus testing of private health insurance Standard Information Statements.

47,740

CHIK Services Pty Ltd IT Readiness Survey. Research carried out within the aged care sector to gauge the current level of IT, and the sector’s capacity to take-up e-Business and e-Health initiatives.

106,248

Colmar Brunton Social Research

Market research into communications materials, relating to the Aged Care Complaints Investigation Scheme.

48,361

Colmar Brunton Social Research*

Exploratory research to support a national communication strategy on dementia.

77,972

Eureka Strategic Research Pty Ltd*

Concept testing for the Asthma Awareness Communication Initiative.

96,668

Eureka Strategic Research Pty Ltd

Concept testing and quantitative research for the Asthma Awareness Communication Initiative.

140,547


Market test of promotional material for the Bonded Medical Places Scheme.

47,729


Market research to inform the communication strategy for the Expanded Settings for Specialist Training Program.

148,280


Evaluation research for the National Skin Cancer Awareness Campaign.

211,424



174,779


Market research on community attitudes to organ and tissue donation, identifying factors that affect the decision to donate organs and tissue, and providing consequential recommendations on messages, media and methods that will improve the rate of organ and tissue donation.

98,653


PART


Inside Story Knowledge Management Pty Ltd

Market research (phase 2) services for the Aged Care Choices website project.

23,153

IPSOS Australia Pty Ltd Consumer survey on informed financial consent for privately insured hospital admissions.

206,142

Open Mind Research Group Pty Ltd*

Research into consumer views on Australian Government Community Aged Care Programs.

65,889

Open Mind Research Group Pty Ltd

Developmental research on the Private Health Insurance Communications Campaign.

131,890


Concept testing for the Private Health Insurance Communications Campaign.

101,186



65,340


Consumer testing of campaign materials relating to the Private Health Insurance Communications Campaign.

78,342


Consumer testing on post-production materials and refined Non-English Speaking Background materials for the Private Health Insurance Communications Campaign.

86,570


Benchmark and tracking research on the Private Health Insurance Communications Campaign.

22,709

Origin Communications Qualitative research on selected Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Check communication materials.

57,860

Roy Morgan Research Pty Ltd (Melbourne)

National survey with teenagers to monitor attitudes towards alcohol and consumption patterns.

16,391

SM Research Research to guide the development of continence communication materials.

11,330

SM Research* Research to guide the development of continence communication materials.

22,660

Stancombe Research Continence communication evaluation research among the general public and general practitioners.

16,309

Taylor Nelson Sofres Australia Pty Ltd*

Research for the roll-out of unleaded Opal fuel in Alice Springs.

288,310

The Social Research Centre Pty Ltd

Evaluation Research for the National Tobacco Youth Campaign.

235,670


PART


The Social Research Centre Pty Ltd*

Conduct the 2006 National Tobacco Survey. 286,480

Woolcott Research Pty Ltd* Branding development research for the Healthy Active Program.

33,000

Woolcott Research Pty Ltd Formative research to inform the development of a new National Alcohol Campaign.

220,787

Woolcott Research Pty Ltd Omnibus survey research to investigate tobacco advertising online and the use of cigarette covers and stickers.

48,015

Woolcott Research Pty Ltd* National omnibus research to assess the impact of World AIDS Day communication activities on consumer awareness of HIV/AIDS issues.

14,212

Woolcott Research Pty Ltd Health warnings campaign omnibus survey. 12,710

Woolcott Research Pty Ltd Concept testing for the National Tobacco Youth Campaign.

319,011

Woolcott Research Pty Ltd* Qualitative research to inform the development of the new National Alcohol Campaign.

218,790

Worthington di Marzio Research Pty Ltd

Communication approaches in aged and community care.

16,935

* These contracts are also reported in Part 4.3 – Consultancy Services.

Polling Organisations


Not Applicable Not Applicable. Not Applicable

Direct Mail Organisations

Organisation Service Provided Paid $ (GST Incl)#

BMF Advertising Pty Ltd Development and production of consumer direct mail for the Opal fuel campaign in Alice Springs.

28,882


PART

4.1Organisation Service Provided Paid $ (GST Incl)#

Lane Print Group Distribution of brochure and covering letter to all permanent aged care residents about changes to the aged care assets test in relation to income streams and gifts (harmonisation).

13,282

Leigh Mardon Australian Pty Ltd

Printing, storage and distribution of voucher packs for eligible clients of the Office of Hearing Services.

172,938

National Mailing and Marketing Pty Ltd

Storage and distribution of aged care publications.

**160,098


Storage and distribution of aged care publications.

**365,417


Handling and distribution of Aged Care Complaints Investigation Scheme communication materials.

49,633


Warehousing, pick and pack and distribution of Carelink Program promotional products.

49,253


Warehousing, pick and pack and distribution of the Carer Information Kit.

209,429


Storage and distribution of Continence Carer Packs.

**100,973


Storage and distribution of dementia publications.

**98,003


Bulk mailouts of Office for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health publications.

13,410


Storage and distribution of publications for the Office of Hearing Services.

35,492


Storage and dissemination of National Palliative Care Program publications.

32,168


Warehouse, pick and pack and distribution of rural health products.

12,454

Zoo Communications Pty Ltd

Design of communication materials for the new Aged Care Complaints Investigation Scheme.

14,449

** The Department is unable to separate the costs of postage from the overall distribution costs.

# The costs reported cover the amount paid to the organisation and not the cost of postage or production of the material sent out. Where a creative agency or direct marketing agency has been used to create the direct mail materials, the amount paid to the agency is reported here.


PART

4.1Media Advertising Organisations


Avant Card Printing and distribution of hepatitis C body-piercing and tattooing postcards.

41,695

Avant Card Printing and distribution of cards for the National Tobacco Youth campaign.

14,555

Cultural Partners Australia (NSW)*

Research on existing alcohol awareness products and adapting these for use with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

74,756

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising placement for the National Excellence Awards in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health.

26,307

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Newspaper advertising for the Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Aged Care.

30,415

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Public notices – Support for Aged Care Training – Program Funding Round 5.

17,180

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Press advertising for the new Aged Care Australia website.

29,628

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Internet advertising for <agedcareaustralia.gov.au> using search engine sponsorship.

30,000

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising of a request for tender to explore the capacity to provide asthma education in Australia to people with asthma and their carers.

16,681

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising the Asthma Cycle of Care. 133,004

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising of the 2007 ACAR information sessions.

41,725

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd National advertising for the Commonwealth Carelink Program.

1,389,174

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising of tender for consultancy for family-centred primary health care.

14,509

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Newspaper advertisement for the National Men’s Continence Awareness Project.

31,335

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising National Public Toilet Map tenders. 23,585

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising for a call for applications for funding under the Support for Day-to-Day Living in the Community Program.

48,872

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising for tenders – National Suicide Prevention Program – advertised in various newspapers on Saturday, 29 July 2006.

10,303


PART


HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Rural health advertisement in quarterly publication – Farm Guide.

12,276

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertisement of Rural Australia Medical Undergraduate Scholarships, John Flynn Scholarship Scheme and Medical Rural Bonded Scholarship Scheme for 2007.

57,874

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising for Urban Brokerage Services procurement for the Office for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health – August–October 2006.

128,377

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising of an invitation to apply for registration to provide a Medicare Benefits-eligible magnetic resonance imaging service in Ipswich.

11,246

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Print media advertising for the Outer Metro Relocation Grants Scheme.

282,752

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising of the 2006–07 Quality Use of Pathology Program funding round.

21,613

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising of the 2007 Quality Use of Pathology Program funding round.

21,862

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising for the DoctorConnect and Round the Clock Medicare grants (Round 1).

112,674

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising of Round the Clock Medicare grant funding in the media (Round 2).

43,619

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Advertising of Round the Clock Medicare grant funding in the media (Round 3).

87,064

HMA Blaze Pty Ltd Placing of 11 advertisements in newspapers across Australia inviting organisations to tender for the Analysis and Review of National Performance Indicators.

24,897

Universal McCann Media buy for the Asthma Awareness Campaign. 1,041,428

Universal McCann Media buy for the National Human Papillomavirus Campaign.

3,846,187

Universal McCann Print and radio advertising media buy for the Opal fuel campaign in Alice Springs.

128,223

Universal McCann Media buy for the Private Health Insurance Communication Campaign.

4,880,747

Universal McCann Media buy for the National Skin Cancer Awareness Campaign.

5,508,437


PART


Universal McCann Media buy for the National Tobacco Youth Campaign.

6,753,855

Other Advertising


Sensis Pty Ltd Age Page in White Pages telephone directories. 273,602

Sensis Pty LtdWhite Pages listings for the National Dementia Helpline.

26,251


PART

4.2

4.2 COMMONWEALTH DISABILITY STRATEGY

The Commonwealth Disability Strategy, accessible at <www.facsia.gov.au>, encourages government organisations to:

• provide information to people with disabilities in accessible formats;

• consult with people with disabilities to find out what they need;

• employ people with disabilities;

• purchase accessible services; and

• recognise people with disabilities as consumers of services.

Following is a discussion of the Department’s success in addressing the strategy’s set performance indicators.

POLICY ADVISER ROLE

New or Revised Program/Policy Proposals Assess Impact on the Lives of People with Disabilities Prior to Decision

In 2006–07, the Department continued to consider the impact of all new or revised policy and program proposals on the lives of people with disabilities. For example, the Department considered the probable consequences when developing the aged care and population ageing programs which target frail older people, eligible younger people with disabilities, and their carers.

New policy and program proposals affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people included an impact statement acknowledging that a significant proportion of Indigenous people have acute or chronic health needs or disabilities. Initiatives implemented by the Department in 2006–07 included combating petrol sniffing and other substance use, the continued expansion of primary health care services, and the conversion of the Community Development Employment Project positions to permanent fully-waged positions. Furthermore, the Urban Brokerage Services initiative provided an identifiable and accessible entry point to the health care system to increase choice and access to culturally appropriate mainstream health services to Indigenous communities.

People with Disabilities are Included in Consultations about New or Revised Policy/Program Proposals

The Department’s consultation with key stakeholder groups, including people with disabilities, formed an integral role in the development of new policies and programs during 2006–07. For example, the Department consulted with the Aged Care Advisory Committee on the development of national aged care policies and programs. The committee included representatives from Alzheimer’s Australia, Carers Australia and other key stakeholders. The Home and Community Care Program, administered jointly by the Department and the states and territories, provided care to older people and people with disabilities. Consultations concerning the program included representation by people with disabilities.

In 2006–07, the Department also consulted with Indigenous communities on a range of programs and policies aimed at addressing the systemic disadvantages to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with acute or chronic health needs or disabilities.

In addition, the Department’s Office of Hearing Services consulted with the Hearing Services Consultative Committee, including representatives from consumer groups and the Deafness Forum, on revised program proposals.


PART

4.2

Public Announcements of New, Revised or Proposed Policy/Program Initiatives are Available in Accessible Formats for People with Disabilities in a Timely Manner

The Department continued to ensure that all public announcements on initiatives met departmental standards for accessibility and were timely and available in electronic and other appropriate formats. The public was able to access this information from a variety of websites managed by the Department including:

• the Health and Ageing website, accessible at <www.health.gov.au>, which provides comprehensive information on the policy and program initiatives under the Department’s responsibilities;

• the Aged Care Australia website, accessible at <www.agedcareaustralia.gov.au>;

• the Bladder and Bowel website, an initiative of the National Continence Management Strategy, accessible at <www.bladderbowel.gov.au>; and

• the Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits, accessible at <www.pbs.gov.au>. The website’s layout, format, navigation and existing screen reader technology ensures all users have a choice of format that best suits their needs.

Working in partnership with Vision Australia, the Department also provided information through the Directory of Services for Older People 2006–07, which is accessible at <www.seniors.gov.au> and in ‘talking book’ form for the vision impaired.

REGULATOR ROLE

Publicly Available Information on Regulations and Quasi-Regulations is Available in Accessible Formats for People with Disabilities

The Therapeutic Goods Administration has primary responsibility in the Department for providing information on the regulation of therapeutic goods. In 2006–07, the Therapeutic Goods Administration continued to provide FreecallTM (1800 020 653) and FreecallTM (1800 500 236) teletypewriter information lines, via the National Relay Service. This service enabled users who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impediment access to interactive text based communications through the transmission of frequency-shift-keying audio tones across the telephone network. In addition, people could request publicly available documents from the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s email address ([email protected]), or access other relevant information from <www.tga.gov.au>. The website was constantly reviewed by the Therapeutic Goods Administration during the year to ensure that it met current accessibility and usability standards, including the needs of people with disabilities.

The Department’s Office of the Gene Technology Regulator regularly updated its website, accessible at <www.ogtr.gov.au>, with information on its functions and activities throughout 2006–07. This included a record of licences issued, as well as risk assessment and risk management plans prepared for applications to release genetically modified organisms into the environment, and information on quarterly and annual reports. A free call number (1800 181 030) was also maintained to respond to enquiries, such as providing callers with access to hard copies of all publicly available material.

Furthermore, the Department continued to provide access to all relevant regulations and contracts governing the Hearing Services Program on its website.


PART

4.2

Publicly Available Regulatory Compliance Reporting is Available in Accessible Formats for People with Disabilities

The Department’s 2006–07 Regulatory Plan was publicly available through the Department’s website in Hyper Text Mark-up Language and Portable Document File formats for people with disabilities. The plan covers business regulation, including primary legislation, subordinate legislation, quasi-regulation or treaties that directly affect business, have a significant indirect effect on business, or restrict competition.

PURCHASER ROLE

Publicly Available Information on Agreed Purchasing Specifications is Available in Accessible Formats for People with Disabilities

The Department continued in 2006–07 to provide publicly available purchasing specifications in accessible formats as part of the open Request for Tender documents available through the departmental website. All tender documents provided details of departmental contact officers who could disperse information in other accessible formats.

Processes for Purchasing Goods or Services with a Direct Impact on the Lives of People with Disabilities are Developed in Consultation with People with Disabilities

Consideration of the concerns and interests of stakeholders, including people with disabilities, were an ongoing requirement of the Department’s procurement plan. Where goods and services purchased had a direct impact on people with disabilities, those requirements were specified in tender documentation.

Purchasing Specifications and Contract Requirements for the Purchase of Goods and Services are Consistent with the Requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992

The Department’s procedural rules require purchasing officials to adhere to references to specific legislation in specifications and contract documents. The Department’s contracts for services and consultancies contain provisions for the contractor to agree to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

Publicly Available Performance Reporting Against Purchase Contract Specifications Requested in Accessible Formats for People with Disabilities is Provided

In 2006–07, the Department displayed all business opportunities (tenders) and grant/funding invitations on its website in accordance with departmental policy. All electronically published material met departmental standards for accessibility and printed formats were available on request.

The Department also provided applicants with performance reporting information on purchase contract specifications for the allocation of aged care places and related approvals under the annual Aged Care Approvals Round. This information was available through the Department’s website in accessible electronic formats, and in printed form.


PART

4.2

Complaints/Grievance Mechanisms, Including Access to External Mechanisms, in Place to Address Concerns Raised About Providers’ Performance

The Department had a variety of mechanisms in place in 2006–07 to respond to complaints and grievances from stakeholders, clients and members of the public about service providers.

The Department’s Aged Care Complaints Investigation Scheme (formerly the Aged Care Complaints Resolution Scheme) was available to anyone wishing to provide information, or make a complaint about, a Government-subsidised aged care service. This included people with a disability or their families. The Aged Care Commissioner looks at examinable decisions made by the Department in relation to the investigation of complaints and the processes for investigating complaints. Advocacy services were also available in each state and territory to assist clients to understand their rights or make complaints and to contact service providers on a client’s behalf.

Under the National Aged Care Advocacy Program, the Department administered funds to aged care advocacy services in each state and territory. These services were community-based organisations which provided care recipients with advice about their rights and helped them to exercise their rights. Aged care advocacy services also worked with the aged care industry to encourage policies and practices to protect consumers.

The Department established a continence email address ([email protected]) and complaints helpline (1800 33 00 66) under the Continence Aids Assistance Scheme to enable consumers to make any grievances regarding the scheme. In addition, the Department offered a comprehensive complaints/grievance mechanism to address concerns about hearing service provider performance which included access to a Complaints Officer within its Office of Hearing Services (1800 500 726 or 1800 500 496 (TTY)). This was in addition to a general client feedback mechanism and the annual client satisfaction survey on hearing services.

EMPLOYER ROLE

Employment Policies, Procedures and Practices Comply with the Requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992

In 2006–07, the Department continued to ensure that all employment policies, guidelines and processes met the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and did not discriminate on the basis of disability.

The Department’s commitment to the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 was included in its 2004–2007 Certified Agreement and Australian Workplace Agreements. In 2006, the Department began preparing the 2007–2011 Collective Agreement and Australian Workplace Agreements while adhering to the principles of the Act. All staff and managers were responsible for supporting the principles of workplace diversity, as articulated in the Department’s Workplace Diversity Plan and the Department was a financial member of the Australian Employers’ Network on Disability.

The Department continued to provide training and support to help eliminate discrimination in accordance with its obligations under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (and the Workplace Relations Act 1996). The Department also developed a Disability Action Plan to implement the range of better practice disability workforce strategies identified in the Management Advisory Committee report Employment of People with Disability in the Australian Public Service. The plan will be implemented in 2007–08.


PART

4.2

Recruitment Information for Potential Job Applicants is Available in Accessible Formats on Request

Potential job applicants could access recruitment information in electronic formats (through the internet or via email) and in hard copy. By providing Hyper Text Mark-up Language, Portable Document File and Rich Text Format versions, the Department’s online recruitment system complied with World Wide Web Consortium guidelines on accessibility for visually impaired applicants, and also the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission guidelines on accessible document formats. Email and hard copies of documentation were usually sent to applicants within 24 hours. A teletypewriter telephone service was also available for hearing impaired applicants. The telephone number is (02) 6289 5945.

The Department’s recruitment process and systems are endorsed by the Australian Employers’ Network on Disability.

Agency Recruiters and Managers Apply the Principle of ‘Reasonable Adjustment’

As in previous years, job applicants could identify any special requirements they may have had for interview or testing when completing the Department’s Personal Particulars form, which makes reference to reasonable adjustment needs. Staff could access reasonable adjustment guidelines on the Department’s website.

Reasonable adjustment needs could also be identified as a result of a pre-engagement medical assessment. The Department continued to provide chairs of selection committees, business managers and the Health Management Unit with information and support to make adjustments during the recruitment process or on commencement of new staff.

Requests for reasonable adjustment during the recruitment process were reviewed on a case-by-case basis. When required, these requests were reviewed by the Australian Employers’ Network on Disability to gauge the appropriate level of adjustment provided. The Department also provided special needs equipment to staff and job applicants through its Reasonable Adjustment Program.

Training and Development Programs Consider the Needs of Staff with Disabilities

The Department continued to ensure that training programs in 2006–07 were developed and delivered through flexible and accessible means. The Department’s training nomination process provided staff with the opportunity to identify any special requirements they may have, and where these were identified, arrangements were made to cater for these special requirements.

The Department’s training suites in the Central Office were disability friendly and readily accessible for staff with mobility impairment. These suites provided large computer monitors to support IT training needs for people with visual impairment and speakers for the hearing impaired. The Department also had access to signing interpreters when required.

From time to time, the Department used external sites to conduct its training courses. During the year the Department conducted a review of external training venues to ensure facilities were accessible for people with disabilities.


PART

4.2

Training and Development Programs Include Information on Disability Issues as they Relate to the Content of the Program

All staff training programs included information on disability issues where applicable.

Complaints/Grievance Mechanism, Including Access to External Mechanisms, in Place to Address Issues and Concerns Raised by Staff

The Department had an established process to address staff complaints and grievances through the Fair Treatment and Review of Actions’ framework, and procedures for determining breaches of the Australian Public Service Code of Conduct. The Department’s intranet website provided staff with information on external review mechanisms.


PART

4.3

4.3 CONSULTANCY SERVICES

Selection and Engagement PolicyThe Department’s policy on the selection and engagement of consultants accords with the Commonwealth Procurement Guidelines. Value for money is the core principle for selection, underpinned by a focus on:

• encouraging competition;

• efficiency and effectiveness;

• ethical practises; and

• accountability and transparency.

The Department’s Chief Executive Instructions and Procedural Rules further support the core principles in the Commonwealth Procurement Guidelines.

Summary During 2006–07, 485 new consultancy contracts were entered into involving total actual expenditure of $19.37 million. In addition, 182 ongoing consultancy contracts were active during the 2006–07 year, involving total actual expenditure of $15.65 million.

1. Explanation of Selection Processes UsedOpen Tender: A procurement procedure in which a request for tender is published inviting all businesses that satisfy the conditions for participation to submit tenders. Public tenders are sought from the marketplace using national and major metropolitan newspaper advertising and the Government AusTender internet site.

Select Tender: A procurement procedure in which the procuring agency selects which potential suppliers are invited to submit tenders. Tenders are invited from a shortlist of competent suppliers.

Direct Sourcing: A form of restricted tendering, available only under certain defined circumstances, with a single potential supplier or suppliers being invited to bid because of their unique expertise and/or their special ability to supply the goods and/or services sought.

Panel: An arrangement under which a number of suppliers, usually selected through a single procurement process, may each supply property or services to an agency as specified in the panel arrangements. Tenders are sought from suppliers that have requalified on the agency panels to supply to the Government. This category includes standing offers and supplier panels where the consultant offers to supply goods and services for a predetermined length of time, usually at a prearranged price.

2. Justification for Decision to Use ConsultancyA – Skills currently unavailable within the agency.

B – Need for specialised or professional skills.

C – Need for independent research or assessment.


PART

4.3

Table A: Consultancy Services Let During 2006–07, of $10,000 or More

Outcome 1 – Population Health

Consultant Name DescriptionContract

Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

Access Economics Economic evaluation of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

230,654 Panel C

Acumen Alliance (ACT) Pty Ltd

Evaluation of tender responses for pregnancy support services.

23,405 Select Tender

B

Adelaide Research and Innovation

Creating on the job training opportunities.

177,688 Open Tender

C

Allen Consulting Group Pty Ltd

Provision of economic analysis on the Illicit Drug Diversion Initiative.

135,000 Direct Sourcing

C

Ascent Governance Pty Ltd

Financial advice in relation to procurement and manufacture of Q Fever vaccine.

42,909 Panel B

Australian General Practice Network

Development, testing and evaluation of a Pregnancy Lifescripts Kit.

379,046 Open Tender

B

Australian Healthcare Associates

Evaluation of the Alcohol and Other Drugs Council of Australia National Resource Centre.

95,370 Panel C

Australian Rural Health Education

Evaluation of Retailers Responsible Sale of Alcohol Project.

19,855 Panel C

Bethwaite, Francis M Review into Food Regulation. 74,942 Direct Sourcing

B

Birdanco Nominees Pty Ltd

Probity advice for manufacture and supply of Q Fever vaccine and screening test.

29,700 Open Tender

A

Blue Moon Unit Trust*

Developmental research for the Alerting the Community to the Links Between Illicit Drugs and Mental Illness Campaign.


A


National Drugs Campaign Phase 3: Research to determine currency and effectiveness of National Drugs Campaign Phase 2.

77,000 Panel C


Concept testing of resources for the National Drugs Campaign (Round 1).


A


Second round concept testing of ‘Ice’ creative materials for the National Drugs Campaign.


A


Concept testing for National Drugs Campaign – evaluation of the Parents Booklet.


C


PART

4.3


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)


Final concept testing of creative materials for the National Drugs Campaign.

59,950 Panel A


Formative Research for the new National Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Program.


A


Development research for the Australian Better Health Initiative.

164,505 Open Tender

A


Concept testing for the National Pregnancy Support Helpline.


A


Concept testing research for the Australian Better Health Initiative social marketing campaigns.

**312,510 Open Tender

B

Blue Moon Unit Trust

Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Program evaluation.


C

Blue Moon Unit Trust

Qualitative research into the communication needs of visually impaired women in the cervical screening target age range of 18–69 years.


A

Brooke-Taylor & Company Pty Ltd

Services for the development of a new regulatory framework for disinfectants.


B

C & S Hanson Haulage

Independent review of Fernlea House to assess quality and safety issues.


B

Carroll Communications Pty Ltd

Market research and social marketing strategy formulation, implementation and evaluation.


A

Comparative Pathology Consulting Pty Ltd

Expert pathology training services. 13,156 Direct Sourcing

B

CSIRO Evaluation of data for the registration of medicines.


C

Cultural Partners Australia (NSW)*

Research on existing alcohol awareness products and adapting these for use with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.


B

Cultural Perspectives Pty Ltd

Evaluation of the Youth Wellbeing Program (Central Desert, Northern Territory).

133,760 Open Tender

B



174,779 Panel A


PART

4.3


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)


Concept testing for the Asthma Awareness Communication Initiative.

**96,668 Direct Sourcing

B

Graeme O’Neill Consulting Pty Ltd

Provision of mechanical consulting services to the Therapeutic Goods Administration site for 2006–07.


B

Health Outcomes International Pty Ltd

Review of the Innovative Health Services for Homeless Youth.

79,950 Open Tender

A

Human Capital Alliance (International)

Obtaining consensus competencies for postgraduate public health education and research training.

43,290 Panel B

James Cook University

Workforce planning models for rapid deployment.

126,377 Open Tender

C

Katherine West Health Board

Katherine West Smoke Check Project.

256,600 Open Tender

C

La Trobe University Evaluation of the 3 National Research Centres of Excellence: the National Drug & Alcohol Research Centre, the National Drug Research Institute, and the National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction.


B

La Trobe University Design of a monitoring and evaluation framework for the Australian Better Health Initiative.


B

Mainpac Pty Ltd Consulting and training services for 2006–07.


A

Matthews Pegg Consulting Pty Ltd

Advice and assistance in relation to amendments to the National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme legislation.


B

Naidu Consulting Services

Procurement related services to establish a panel framework for external evaluators.

49,200 Panel B

Rosslogic Pty Ltd Assistance in the Bethwaite Review into food regulation.

20,625 Open Tender

A

The Morawska Group

Branch executive development. 20,000 Select Tender

B

The Social Research Centre Pty Ltd

Tracking research for the National Tobacco Youth Campaign.


A

The Social Research Centre Pty Ltd*

Conduct the 2006 National Tobacco Survey.


C


PART

4.3


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

Trilogy Information Solutions

Determining the feasibility of developing a Whole of Life Immunisation Register.

209,495 Open Tender

B

University of South Australia

National Indigenous Public Health Education and Research.

126,528 Open Tender

C

University of Sydney

Consultative services for the Australian Drug Evaluation Committee by Professor Tattersall.

66,770 Open Tender

B

University of Sydney

Consultative services for the Australian Drug Evaluation Committee by Professor Tattersall.

68,678 Open Tender

B

Urbis JHD Pty Ltd Review of the Alcohol Initiative. 39,655 Direct Sourcing

B

Urbis JHD Pty Ltd Identification of enablers for Indigenous drug users.

199,973 Open Tender

B

Urbis JHD Pty Ltd Evaluation of the Smoking Cessation Guidelines for Australian General Practice.


C

Urbis JHD Pty Ltd Scoping study on University Counsellors.

95,079 Open Tender

B

Various Evaluators Evaluation of various medicines. 1,842,875 Direct Sourcing

A

WalterTurnbull Probity advice on market testing of the Pregnancy Hotline.


B

Woolcott Research Pty Ltd*

Qualitative research to inform the development of the new National Alcohol Campaign.

**218,790 Select Tender

C


National omnibus research to assess the impact of World AIDS Day communication activities on consumer awareness of HIV/AIDS issues.

**14,212 Select Tender

B


Branding development research for the Healthy Active Program.


C

Zed Business Management

Review of coordination functions in the Population Health Division.

29,700 Open Tender

C


PART

4.3

Outcome 2 – Access to Pharmaceutical Services


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process (1)

Justification (2)

3 red Pty Ltd Evaluation of the Australian Pharmaceutical Advisory Council Guidelines for Medication Management in Residential Aged Care Facilities.

205,495 Open Tender

C


Cost recovery for listing medicines on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, Stage 2.1.

36,053 Panel A


Cost recovery for listing medicines on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, Stage 2.

140,916 Panel A


Cost recovery for listing medicines on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

65,692 Panel A

Biotext Pty Ltd Guidelines for Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee.


B

Mark Williams Management Pty Ltd

Expert advice for the Community Service Obligation Funding Pool.


B

Stratsec.net Pty Ltd Threat risk assessments of the preferred respondents to the Community Service Obligation Administration Agency.

42,000 Panel B

Outcome 3 – Access to Medical Services


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)


Independent financial advice to the Darwin radiation oncology service tender process and the tender evaluation process.


B

Adelaide Research & Innovations Pty Ltd

Research services, including scanning and coordination, for new and emerging health technologies (horizon scanning).

987,275 Open Tender

B

Adelaide Research & Innovation Pty Ltd

Research services for scanning for new and emerging health technologies (horizon scanning).


B


Evaluation of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging Mobile Unit Trial.


B


PART

4.3


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

Royal Australasian College of Surgeons

Research services for scanning for new and emerging health technologies (horizon scanning).


B

Royal Australasian College of Surgeons

Research services for new and emerging health technologies (horizon scanning).

479,261 Open Tender

B

Sydney South West Area Health Service

Independent technical advice to the Darwin radiation oncology service tender process and the tender evaluation process.


B

WalterTurnbull Pty Ltd

Independent probity advice to the Darwin radiation oncology service tender process and the tender evaluation process.


B

Outcome 4 – Aged Care and Population Ageing


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)


Stage one of Access Points Project – mapping exercise in Tasmania.

93,225 Open Tender

A


Stage one of Access Points Project – mapping exercise in Queensland.

114,125 Open Tender

A

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare

Scoping study for a national carers’ data repository.


B


Development research for the National Eye Health Initiative Public Education Campaign.


A


Quantitative developmental research for the National Eye Health Initiative.


A

Business Strategy Review Pty Ltd

Stage one of Access Points Project – mapping exercise in New South Wales.

102,300 Open Tender

A

Campbell Research and Consulting

Evaluation of carer support measures.

218,695 Open Tender

B

Colmar Brunton Social Research Pty Ltd*

Exploratory research to support a national communication strategy on dementia.


C

Communio Pty Ltd Review of Aged Care Assessment Teams.

215,644 Open Tender

B


PART

4.3


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu

A study to establish the feasibility of introducing an Electronic Continuous Client Record for the Community Care Sector.

546,370 Open Tender

A

Evolution Research Pty Ltd

Development of Extended Aged Care at Home Dementia information package and face-to-face sessions.


B

Evolution Research Pty Ltd

Stage one of Access Points Project – mapping exercise in the Australian Capital Territory.

48,260 Open Tender

A

Flinders Consulting Pty Ltd

Evaluation of the Transition Care Program.

749,650 Open Tender

C

Gevers Goddard-Jones Pty Ltd

Review of Innovative Pool Project Seniors Care Options For All.


A

Gevers Goddard-Jones Pty Ltd

Mapping the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Home and Community Care workforce.

165,637 Open Tender

A

Human Solutions Pty Ltd

Development and hosting of dementia website.


B

La Trobe University Analysis for National Data Repository – Aged Care Assessment Program.


B

Matthews Pegg Consulting Pty Ltd

Policy and legislation development advice for new aged care complaints handling mechanism.


B

Open Mind Research Group*

Research into consumer views on Australian Government community aged care programs.


B

Pricewaterhouse Coopers

National Access Points Management Project.

950,375 Open Tender

B


Provision of eligibility criteria and development of a funding model for the implementation of the Rural and Remote Viability Supplement for Community Aged Care Programs.

62,085 Open Tender

C

Resolution Consulting Services Pty Ltd

Development of a national financial reporting framework for community care services.


B

RSM Bird Cameron Probity review of the Aged Care Approvals Round.

31,350 Panel B

SM Research* Research to guide the development of continence communication materials.

22,660 Open Tender

C


PART

4.3


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

Urbis JHD Pty Ltd Dementia Primary Care Project – Phase 1. Identification of strategies to assist general practitioners in the assessment and diagnosis of people with dementia.

152,233 Panel C

Urbis JHD Pty Ltd Evaluation of the Community Partners Program and the Partners in Culturally Appropriate Care Program.


B

Yaran Business Services Pty Ltd

Stage one Access Points Project – South Australian Mapping Project.

44,770 Open Tender

A

Outcome 5 – Primary Care


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

Allen Consulting Group Pty Ltd

Higher Eduction Contribution Scheme evaluation: Reassessing the modelling for future participation rates.

29,700 Panel B

Ascent Consulting Pty Ltd

Advice on the establishment and implementation of the National Health Call Centre Network.


A


Economic evaluation of the Rural Women’s GP Service.


B

Banscott Health Consulting Pty Ltd

Strategic advice relating to the implementation of the National Health Call Centre Network.


B


Strategic advice relating to the implementation of the National Health Call Centre Network.


B

Campbell Research & Consulting

Analysis and review of the National Quality and Performance System National Performance Indicators.

343,752 Open Tender

B

Campbell Research & Consulting

Evaluation of the Australian Divisions of General Practice Program.


B

Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu

Review of the General Practice Education and Training’s business processes.

342,700 Panel C

Health Outcomes International Pty Limited

Review of the Rural Retention Program.


B


PART

4.3


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

McGeorge, Alistair Peter

Specialist advice on the National Health Call Centre Network scoping project meetings/workshops.


B

Morey Australia Pty. Ltd

Evaluation of the GP-Hospital Integration Demonstration Site at North Wyong, New South Wales.

37,510 Panel B

Nova Public Policy Pty Ltd

Development of national standards in the provision of mental health services through call centres.


B

PPR Consulting Pty Ltd

Development of a draft National Health Call Centre Network mental health component scoping framework.


A


Review of the Fairfield Division of General Practice.


B


Review of the 2005–06 financial reports for the Divisions of General Practice Network.


B

Robert Griew Pty Ltd

Independent assessment of the evaluation report on 2nd round Co-ordinated Care Trials.


B

Sibthorpe, Dr. Beverley

Expert advice on various components of the implementation of the National Quality Performance System.


B

Outcome 6 – Rural Health

Consultant Name DescriptionContract Price $

(GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

Communio Pty Ltd Liaison with staff of the Outback Eye Service and collect data.

62,913 Panel B

KPMG Business planning and related services for the Rural Private Access Program – 4th round.

12,388 Panel A


Business planning and related services for the 4th round of the Rural Private Access Program.

19,828 Panel A

Resolution Consulting Services Pty

Data collection templates. 115,505 Panel B

Resolution Consulting Services Pty

Expert economic and financial analysis, input and advice in developing the Royal Flying Doctor Service funding agreement.

71,675 Panel B


PART

4.3

Consultant Name DescriptionContract Price $

(GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

WalterTurnbull Pty Ltd

Business planning and related services for the 4th round of the Rural Private Access Program.

19,250 Panel A

Outcome 8 – Indigenous Health


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

20/20 Group Pty Ltd

Review of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander risk assessment procedures; the development of tools, instructions and evaluation framework.


B

20/20 Group Pty Ltd

Facilitate a series of Continuous Quality Improvement Initiative workshops nationally for Office for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Project Officers and its funded services.


B

20/20 Group Pty Ltd

Continuous Quality Improvement organisational reviews, plan development and implementation, and ongoing facilitation for health services.


B

Atkinson Kerr and Associates Pty Ltd

Review primary health care needs of the Indigenous people of Morwell.


C

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare

Preparation of statistical elements against the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Performance Framework.


B

Barbara Schmidt and Associates Pty Ltd

Clinical audit of the Ampilatwatja Health Centre Aboriginal Corporation.


B

Charles Darwin University

Review methodology for calculating life expectancy used by University of Queensland.


C

Convergence E-Business Solutions

Security Privacy Framework Project for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Service.


B

Creative Territory Pty Ltd

Development of a stakeholder engagement and public relations strategy for the roll-out of Opal fuel in Alice Springs.


B


PART

4.3


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

Delphi Mentors Australia

Continuous Quality Improvement organisational reviews, plan development and implementation, and ongoing facilitation for health services.


B

Department of Health Western Australia

Review and follow-up audits of Aboriginal Alcohol and Drug Service, Wirraka Maya, Carnarvon and Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service.


B

Department of Human Services – Victoria

Audit of Dhaurwurd Wurrung Health Service Portland.

13,903 Panel B

DH4 Pty Ltd Operational advice on matters pertaining to the Patient Information Recall System and other information technology support for funded organisations.


B

Effective Change Review of the Gippsland and East Gippsland Aboriginal Cooperative.


C

Ernst and Young (ACT)

Financial services for Condobolin and Dubbo Aboriginal medical services.

83,833 Open Tender

B

Focus Consulting (Victoria) Pty Ltd

External assessment of health service delivery options for the Menindee rural community.

22,715 Panel C

Gevers Goddard Jones

Implement enhancements to the Continuous Quality Improvement Initiative.


B

Healthcare Planning and Evaluation

Evaluation and feasibility of a swimming pool in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Lands in South Australia.


B

Intertek Testing Services Australia

Independent analysis of the quality of unleaded Opal fuel to be used in engines.


C

James Cook University

Collection of baseline data in communities that are to receive Opal fuel to use in the evaluation of the benefits of Opal fuel.


B

Merit Partners Pty Ltd

Review financial statements submitted by funded organisations, provision of ad hoc professional services, recruitment and review of financial analysis training material.


B

Mundy, Cheryl Audit of strategic processes impacting on Aboriginal health in Tasmania.


B


PART

4.3


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

Peris, Nova Maree Indigenous child health check roadshow.


B

Peris, Nova Maree Expert advice on Indigenous child health.


B

PHIDU Consulting Services

Development of interactive online Indigenous Health Atlas.


B

PPB Consulting Forensic audit of Coomealla Health Aboriginal Health Corporation.


B


Forensic audit of Bundjalung Tribal Society Aboriginal Corporation.

46,200 Panel B


Research into models of Family Centred Primary Health Care.

93,500 Open Tender

B

Shannon Consulting Services

Review Armidale and District Services.


C

Shannon Consulting Services

Service development consultancy in Armidale and surrounding area.

38,962 Panel B

Siggins Miller Consultants Pty Ltd

Analysis of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander funded drug and alcohol services in New South Wales.

48,720 Panel B

SMS Consulting Group Ltd

Rewrite patient information recall system guidelines.


B


Development of Healthy for Life Technical Specifications.


B


Coordination of systems based and non-electronic information management processes to streamline processes and transitioning to program information management system.

222,750 Open Tender

B

Stamfords Advisors and Consultants

Development of a discussion paper outlining proposed models for representation options for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers.

75,621 Open Tender

C

Taylor Nelson Sofres Australia*

Research for the roll-out of unleaded Opal fuel in Alice Springs.


C

Trish Ryan Consulting

Development of the performance indicators for the Service Development and Report Framework.


B

Trish Ryan Consulting

Specification of performance indicators for Indigenous Community Health Urban Brokerage Service Initiative.

25,384 Open Tender

B


PART

4.3


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

Urbis JHD Pty Ltd Pika Wiya organisational review, plan development and implementation, and ongoing facilitation of health services.


C

Urbis JHD Pty Ltd Assessment of the health service needs and access for Aboriginal people in the Port Augusta region.


B

Walter Turnbull Pty Ltd

Funds administration of Ceduna Koonibba Aboriginal Health Services.


B

Outcome 9 – Private Health


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)


Focus testing of Private Health Insurance standard information statements.

47,740 Open Tender

C

John Ramsay Consulting Pty Ltd

Facilitation of stakeholder consultation for the National Safety and Quality Accreditation Standards Review.

163,918 Open Tender

B


Developmental research for the Private Health Insurance Communications Campaign.


B

Open Mind Research Group Pty Ltd



C




C


Consumer testing of campaign materials relating to the Private Health Insurance Communications Campaign.


C


Consumer testing on post-production materials and refined Non-English Speaking Background materials for the Private Health Insurance Communications Campaign.


C


Benchmark and tracking research on the Private Health Insurance Communications Campaign.


C

Paper Shuffle Pty Ltd

Provision of recruitment services. 33,000 Open Tender

B


PART

4.3

Outcome 10 – Health System Capacity and Quality


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

Carla Cranny and Associates Pty Ltd

Development of a strategic work plan for presentation at the Australian Health Implementation Council Strategic Planning Workshop.


B

Conde, Peter Development of a draft discussion paper about health and medical research related business opportunities in South East Asia.


C

Ergo Asia Pty Ltd Project to investigate medical research opportunities in Asia.


C




C

KPMG Assessment of capacity for future development of the asthma education workforce in Australia.

283,472 Open Tender

C

Matthews Pegg Consulting

Technical advice for the development of legislation regarding therapeutic cloning.


C

Matthews Pegg Consulting

Technical advice during Committee stage of legislative amendments to the Gene Technology Act 2000.


C

Nous Group Pty Ltd Development of the Australian Health Information Council e-Health Future Directions Summit briefing paper.


B

Phillip Jones & Associates Pty Ltd

Review of due diligence practices. 43,120 Direct Sourcing

B

University of Wollongong

Evaluation of the Care Planning Sub-program of the Local Palliative Care Grants Program: A Community Capacity Building Approach.

785,965 Open Tender

C

Webster, David William

Provision of advice on health and medical research matters.


C


PART

4.3

Outcome 11 – Mental Health


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

Coote Practice Pty Ltd

Expert advice on issues relating to expanding settings for medical specialist training.


B


Market research to inform communication strategy for the Expanded Settings for Specialist Training Program.


C


Formative evaluation of the environment surrounding the provision of mental health services to consumers through a number of media; including telephone counselling services, self help initiatives and web-based support programs.


B

Rural Doctors Association of Australia

Expert advice on specialist training in regional, rural and remote locations.


B

Outcome 12 – Health Workforce Capacity


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

Australasian Day Surgery

Expert advice on specialist training in day hospital settings.


B


Review of the Rural Retention Program.


C

Outcome 13 – Acute Care


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)


Identification of existing core competencies required for the care of older Australians and gaps in those core competencies.

34,650 Open Tender

B


Identification of existing core competencies required for the care of older Australians and gaps in those core competencies.

42,350 Open Tender

B


Provision of a summary and comparison of the key structural features of selected overseas and Australian organ and tissue donation sectors.

164,450 Panel B


PART

4.3


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)


Review of Australians Donate. 123,888 Panel C


Policy advice on Acute Care funding.

19,130 Open Tender

B

Communio Pty Ltd National Action Plan reporting requirements.


B

Department of Treasury

Medical Indemnity actuarial advice. 200,000 Direct Sourcing

B

Doll Martin Associates Pty Ltd

Assessment of Hospital Information Performance Improvement Program data security and integrity procedures.

37,800 Panel B


Developmental research for raising community awareness for organ and tissue donation in Australia.


C

Health Outcomes International

Evaluation of the Pathways Home Program.

125,065 Panel B

Health Policy Analysis Pty Ltd

Data analysis services for The State of our Public Hospitals, June 2007 report.

77,470 Open Tender

B

KPMG Advice on Acute Care funding. 31,050 Open Tender

B

KPMG Policy advice on Acute Care funding.

38,550 Open Tender

B

The Trustee for Van Konkelenberg Family Trust (Fresbout Consulting Pty Ltd)

Review the Hospital Information Performance Improvement Program.

80,000 Panel B

Transfusion Services Pty Ltd

Expert advice for the review of Australia’s plasma fractionation arrangements.

36,360 Open Tender

A


PART

4.3

Outcome 15 – Biosecurity and Emergency Response


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

Cultural Partners Australia (NSW)

Pandemic influenza communication activities.

36,570 Open Tender

B

D’Arcy Consulting Group Pty Ltd

Implement and conduct corporate training.


B

Monash University Review and report on HIV. 19,085 Direct Sourcing

B

Norman Swan Medical Communications

Prepare, facilitate and report priorities for enHealth.

37,000 Open Tender

B


Provision of strategic advice. 50,000 Direct Sourcing

B

Cross Outcomes


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)


Probity services for an accommodation project.

18,285 Panel B


Development of a Bird Flu Business Continuity Plan.


B

Alliance Consulting Group Pty Ltd

Review of tender services for office services.


A


Development of procurement documentation for office services.


B


Post implementation review of Scarborough House refurbishment project.


B

Australian Bureau of Statistics

Production and analysis of data on health literacy from the 2006 Adult Literacy and Life Skills survey.


B

Australian Government Solicitor

Legal services. 318,688 Panel A

Clayton Utz Legal services. 282,798 Panel A

Corrs Chambers Westgarth


CSIRO Review of statistical disclosure control methodologies applicable for use in Australian health services data collections.


B


PART

4.3


Price $ (GST Incl)

Selection Process

(1)

Justification (2)

David Jess & Associates Pty Ltd

Special consultancy assistance for the Publications Unit.

22,010 Open Tender

B

Ernst & Young (ACT)

Assessment of programs administered by the Department.

38,412 Panel B

Hassall & Associates Pty Ltd

Consultancy services for Functioning Economies in Times of Pandemic for Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation.

28,732 Open Tender

A

Jim Birch Management Consultancy

Report on the International Initiative for Mental Health Leadership.


A

Mallesons Stephen Jaques


Maximussolutions Australia

Business consultancy services. 49,500 Direct Sourcing

C

Minter Ellison Legal services. 150,394 Panel A

Morison Consulting Pty Ltd

Audit Committee services. 45,000 Direct Sourcing

B

Phillip Jones & Associates Pty Ltd

Review current governance arrangements for the Department.


B

Phillips Fox Legal services. 95,558 Panel A

Stratsec.net Pty Ltd Threat and risk assessment for proposed additional website capacity.

11,264 Panel B

Stratsec.net Pty Ltd Secure gateway data services. 14,080 Panel C

* These contracts are also reported in Part 4.1 – Advertising and Market Research.

** The amount quoted reflects the total contract value. The amounts in Part 4.1 – Advertising and Market Research

record the amounts paid by the Department during the financial year.

Comparison Expenditure on Consultancy Services during 2004–05, 2005–06 and 2006–07

2004–05

$

2005–06

$

2006–07

$

33,266,291 33,445,141 35,020,020


PART

4.4

4.4 DISCRETIONARY GRANT PROGRAMS

The Department administers funds for a number of discretionary grant programs. Discretionary grants are payments where the Portfolio Minister or paying agency has the discretion to determine whether or not a particular applicant receives funding and may or may not impose conditions in return for the grant. The payment can be made to an organisation or individual. This definition includes program grants as well as ad-hoc and one-off payments and excludes:

• service agreements, which are treated as contracts rather than grants;

• intra-Commonwealth government funding;

• payments to states and other government agencies;

• Specific Purpose Payments, inter-government transfers;

• payments to overseas aid organisations;

• Government income support programs;

• emergency payment programs;

• grants under commercial industry development programs (including increasing research and development, and assisting exporters);

• grant programs specifically for educational institutions and medical research institutions;

• grants approved by Commonwealth bodies outside the General Government Sector; and

• payments of a specific sum of money or fixed percentage of shared funding to an organisation or individual that are made according to a Cabinet Decision, a letter from the Prime Minister, or a determination of a Ministerial Council.

During 2006–07, the Department committed funding through 1,839 discretionary grants totalling $446.0 million. This is an increase from 2005–06 of 11.6 per cent. The largest variance is located within Outcome 8 – Indigenous Health, which has increased funding by $39.1 million or 12.0 per cent. The increase is due to the roll-out of a number of new initiatives and capital works projects associated with the expansion and enhancement of Indigenous Health. Other variations are primarily due to reclassification of grant programs as discretionary following clarification with the Department of Finance and Administration on the application of the Discretionary Grant guidelines. These larger variations can be located at Outcomes 5, 6, 10 and 15.


PART

4.4

Table 4.4.1: Discretionary Grant Payments by Outcome and Program Groups in 2006–07

Outcome Outcome Description and Program GroupTotal Expensed

for 2006–07 $

Outcome 1 – Population Health

The incidence of preventable mortality, illness and injury in Australians is minimised

Chronic Disease – Early Detection and Prevention 300,000

Communicable Disease Control 3,976,482

Drug Strategy 7,774,835

Immunisation 292,000

Public Health 791,895

Outcome 1 Total 13,135,212

Outcome 2 – Access to Pharmaceutical Services

Australians have access to cost-effective medicines

Community Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Awareness 591,430

Outcome 2 Total 591,430

Outcome 3 – Access to Medical Services

Australians have access to cost-effective medical services

Alternative Funding for Health Service Provision 1,584,304


Outcome 4 – Aged Care and Population Ageing

Older Australians enjoy independence, good health and wellbeing. High quality, cost-effective care is accessible to frail older people, and their carers are supported.

Ageing Information and Support 97,680

Community Care 134,613

Culturally Appropriate Aged Care 5,015,553

Residential Care 29,448,570


Outcome 5 – Primary Care

Australians have access to high quality, well-integrated and cost-effective primary care

Primary Care Education and Training 232,100

Primary Care Financing, Quality and Access 600,273

Primary Care Policy, Innovation and Research 373,990


Outcome 6 – Rural Health

Improved health outcomes for Australians living in regional, rural and remote locations

Rural Health Services 5,500



PART

4.4

Outcome Outcome Description and Program GroupTotal Expensed

for 2006–07 $

Outcome 8 – Indigenous Health

Improved access by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to effective primary health care and substance use services and population health programs

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health 364,021,985


Outcome 10 – Health System Capacity and Quality

The capacity and quality of the health care system meet the needs of Australians

Chronic Disease – Treatment 622,713

e-Health Implementation 19,255,212

Health Information 4,844,981

Palliative Care and Community Assistance 4,384,791

Research Capacity 100,000


Outcome 12 – Health Workforce Capacity

Australians have access to an enhanced health workforce

Rural Workforce 177,666

Workforce 80,514


Outcome 15 – Biosecurity and Emergency Response

Australia’s health system has coordinated arrangements to respond effectively to national health emergencies, including infectious disease outbreaks, terrorism and natural disasters

Health Emergency Planning and Response 50,269

Surveillance 654,523


Departmental

Departmental grants are generally for promotional activities:

Outcome 1 - Population Health 550,000

Outcome 13 - Acute Care 35,000

Departmental Total 585,000

Total Administered and Departmental 445,996,879


PART

4.5

The National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development, accessible at <www.environment.gov.au>, defines Ecologically Sustainable Development as using, conserving and enhancing the community’s resources so that ecological processes, on which life depends, are maintained, and the total quality of life, now and in the future, can be increased.

The Department’s environmental performance in 2006–07 is discussed against Section 516A of the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

Legislation Administered by the Department During 2006–07 Accords with Ecologically Sustainable Development Principles (Section 516A(6)(a))In 2006–07, the Department managed in excess of 50 pieces of legislation. Examples of legislation administered by the Department that were relevant to, and met Ecologically Sustainable Development principles include:

• the Gene Technology Act 2000. Administered by the Gene Technology Regulator, this Act aims to protect the heath and safety of people and the environment by identifying risks posed by gene technology, and managing those risks through regulating dealings with genetically modified organisms; and

• the Industrial Chemicals (Notification and Assessment) Act 1989, which is administered by the National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme. This Act provides for a national notification and risk assessment scheme for industrial chemicals.

Outcome Contribution to Ecologically Sustainable Development (Section 516A(6)(b))The Department’s 15 outcomes provide a framework to support the improvement of Australia’s health care system and meet the needs of older Australians. In working to achieve these outcomes, the Department undertook a number of activities in 2006–07 that addressed Ecologically Sustainable Development principles and had Ecologically Sustainable Development relevance.

Ambient Air Quality

The Department, in conjunction with the National Health and Medical Research Council, supported the Developing a Health Based Methodology for Setting Ambient Air Quality Standards workshop in July 2006. The workshop achieved consensus between the environment and health sectors on how health-based guidelines for air pollutants should be developed. The outcome of this workshop was the development of a health hazard assessment approach to guide standard setting for ambient air quality in Australia. This work supported the development of air quality standards under the National Environment Protection (Ambient Air Quality) initiative. The resulting report Ambient Air Quality Standards Setting: An Approach to Health Based Hazard Assessment, accessible at <www.nhmrc.gov.au>, is being used to inform the Environment Protection and Heritage Standards Setting Committee and the National Environment Protection Council in its review of the National Environmental Protection Measure for Ambient Air Quality, due to be finalised in 2008.

National Water Recycling

The Department participated in the development of national water recycling guidelines during the year. Phase 1 of the Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling was released in November 2006 and is accessible at <www.ephc.gov.au>. The Environment Protection and Heritage Council, the Natural Resource Management Ministerial Council and the Australian Health Protection Committee endorsed the release of Phase 2 of the guidelines in June 2007.

Regulation of Gene Technology

In 2006–07, the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator continued to support the Gene Technology Regulator in regulating activities involving live and viable genetically modified organisms. These activities ranged from contained work in certified laboratories to releases of genetically modified organisms into the environment. The Regulator imposed licence conditions to protect human health and safety, and the environment, and had extensive powers to monitor and enforce those conditions.

4.5 ECOLOGICALLY SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT


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Assessment of Chemicals

The National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme continued to operate within an agreed framework for the environmentally sound management of chemicals, consistent with the National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development principles and policies. The scheme’s risk assessments included a hazard assessment, dose-response relationships and exposure assessment. In recommending risk management strategies, the scheme balanced economic and social benefits with the economic and social costs of implementing the strategies. The scheme’s environmental risk assessment activities were undertaken through a cooperative partnership arrangement with the Department of the Environment and Water Resources. Risk assessments and ensuing risk management strategies operated within the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development Agenda 21 (Rio Declaration) framework.

In addition, the scheme’s Low Regulatory Concern Chemical reforms, implemented in 2006–07, included strategies that encouraged the introduction of less hazardous chemicals that posed lower risks to the environment.

The Effect of Departmental Activities on the Environment (Section 516A(6)(c))

Environmental Management System

The Department’s continual commitment to the environment is reflected through its Environmental Management System, based on the Australian Standard ASNZS ISO 14004:1996. This system identified key aspects of the Department’s business that impacted upon the environment, and provided for a range of initiatives to monitor and alleviate the impact. In 2006–07, the Department’s major environmental impact related to the consumption of energy and goods, as well as waste generated by staff in the course of their day-to-day activities.

Health Infrastructure in Indigenous Communities

Capital works projects provided health infrastructure that enabled Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations to deliver high quality health care services that meet the changing needs of these communities. The infrastructure was built and designed to be durable, locally sustainable and appropriate to the cultural and physical environment. Further, it encouraged community development and ownership.

The capital works guidelines for this infrastructure included requirements for passive solar design principles, shaded buildings, adequate wall and ceiling insulation to reduce heating and cooling requirements, and separate male and female consultation rooms. As at 30 June 2007, 18 new clinics and 14 new health staff houses/duplexes in remote areas were completed.

Measures the Department is Taking to Minimise the Impact of Activities on the Environment (Section 516A(6)(d))During 2006–07, the Department, through its Environmental Management System, continued to operate in an ecologically sustainable way and reduce the negative impacts of day-to-day activities. Examples include increasing the use of green power, moving to more efficient and greener accommodation, recycling of office stationery, and the use of recycled printing material. Details of these activities in 2006–07 are set out below.

Reduced Energy Consumption

The Department’s Central Office experienced an overall increase in electricity usage attributed to additional accommodation demands. When this is viewed in terms of units of electricity (kWH) per unit of leased office area (m2), there is a clear downward trend in the Department’s electricity usage over the past five years (see Table 4.5.1). This demonstrates an on-going commitment to realising energy efficiencies.


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Table 4.5.1: Greenhouse Gas Emissions (CO2) for Energy Use – Central Office 2003–2007

Central Office 2003–04 2004–05 2005–06 2006–07

Leased sq meters (per annum)

45,410 44,900 52,300 57,697

Energy use (kWh) 7,061,000 5,998,600 5,575,156 940,064

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (tonnes)#

6,955 5,791 5,161 6,344

Continuous annual change in GHG emissions (tonnes)

-1,044 -1,164 -630 +1,183

% change in GHG emissions (per annum)

-13% -17% -11% +18.6%

kWh per m2 of leased area 155.5 133.6 106.6 102.9

Source: The Department of Health and Ageing. # Calculated using GHG calculator, accessible at <www.greenhouse.gov.au>.

Significant efforts were made in the Department’s State and Territory Offices to improve energy efficiency. The Melbourne office moved to new premises which have a 4.5 star Australian Building Greenhouse Rating. The design of the fit-out helped achieve this rating, and a Green Lease Schedule with the lessor ensures that both parties will work collaboratively to maintain and improve energy efficiency over the term of the lease.

The Adelaide office also relocated to a new premium grade building designed and constructed to a 5 star Australian Building Greenhouse Rating and 5 star Green Star rating. The fit-out was designed to achieve a minimum 4.5 star Australian Building Greenhouse Rating in accordance with the Energy Use in the Australian Government’s Operations policy provisions.

Expansion of Office Recycling to Reduce Waste Going to Landfill

As illustrated in Table 4.5.2, the Department’s efforts in recycling paper, commingled waste and toner cartridges improved on results from 2005–06.

Further, the Department continued to operate an Excess Stationery Store providing staff with a central site where surplus office supplies may be dropped off and collected. By recycling stock in preference to purchasing of new items, the demand for natural resources and energy used in manufacturing is reduced. There is also a reduction in the environmental degradation associated with packaging and transport.


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Promotion and Utilisation of Recycled Office Products

In 2006–07, 73 per cent of the printing paper used by the Department contained 50 per cent content of recycled fibres and had the general qualities and archival longevity equal to those of virgin paper. The Department’s publications area continued to promote the use of print alternatives from re-used materials, such as post-consumer polypropylene products and recycled paper stocks.

Publishing in Alternative Formats

Throughout 2006–07, the Department continued to promote alternative options to paper for publishing formats, helping to reduce paper usage, packaging and mailing costs. Examples include the provision of 2007 Aged Care Approvals Round information and application forms on CD ROM, rather than in paper format; and the publishing of the Draft Community Packaged Care Guidelines in electronic format on the Department’s website. Only a small number of paper copies were produced. The distribution of information and newsletters to industry and stakeholders by email instead of printed material also contributed to the Department’s Ecologically Sustainable Development activities.

Table 4.5.2: Minimising Impact of Activities – Central Office 2006–07

Central Office Volume Environmental Impact Minimised

Office paper and cardboard recycled

193.515 tonnes

(Compares with 169.8 tonnes in 2005–06.)

Through recycling 193.515 tonnes of paper and cardboard, greenhouse emission savings equivalent to 77 tonnes of carbon dioxide were realised, and 3,500 gigajoules of energy and 4,500 litres of water were conserved.

Old mobile phones and batteries recycled

70 items

(Compares with 87 items in 2005-06.)

Mobile phones contain highly toxic materials such as cadmium, lead and nickel, which have the potential to leach into the water-table and contaminate the environment. (Source: <archive.dcita.gov.au>)

Used toner cartridges recycled

1,929 items

(Compares with 1,152 items in 2005–06.)

Recycling printer cartridges prevents potentially hazardous materials from polluting the environment. The metals used in cartridges are mined from the earth’s crust and the plastics are derived from petroleum. Recovering resources from used cartridges reduces the demand for, and environmental impacts of, mining and manufacturing new materials. (Source: <www.planetark.org.au>)

Commingle recycling 6,628 kg

(Compares with 4,075 kg in 2005–06.)

Manufacturing products from recycled materials reduces the demand for new materials for manufacture and levels of harmful emissions reaching the atmosphere. This process saves energy, which in Australia is primarily generated through the burning of coal. (Source: <www2.mdbc.gov.au>)


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Paper 2003–04 2004–05 2005–06 2006–07

Total reams 92,040 63,200 68,036 81,779

% change in consumption

n/a -31% 8% 20%

% white paper with recycled component

64% 66% 75% 73%

Therapeutic Goods Administration Accreditation and Compliance

Throughout 2006-07, the Therapeutic Goods Administration operated under the Australian Standard Environmental Management System. The Administration is now finalising Environmental Management System accreditation and developing processes for the ongoing review of environmental management system practices to ensure compliance. It also continued to closely monitor energy trends and was proactive in the environmental disposal of items such as fluorescent tubes and laboratory waste.

Mechanisms for Reviewing and Improving Measures to Minimise the Impact of the Department on the Environment (Section 516A(6)(e))The Department continued to improve its environmental performance through the Environment Management System. The system incorporates regular reviews and audit schedules as well as evaluation processes facilitating the achievement of system objectives, targets and action plans. The 2005–08 targets seek a ten per cent improvement on the Department’s 2004–05 achievements.

The Department also reports electricity and fuel consumption annually in the Energy Use in the Australian Government’s Operations, highlighting progress against Government and departmental targets.

Table 4.5.3: The Department’s Paper Consumption


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4.6

Section 8 of the Freedom of Information Act 1982, requires a Government agency to publish, in an annual report, information about its functions and decision-making powers that affect the public. Agencies are also required to comment on arrangements for public participation in the formulation of policy, the categories of documents that are held by the agency, and how these documents can be accessed by the public.

Particulars of the DepartmentDiscussion on the Department’s structure can be found in Part 1 – Overview of this report, while organisational functions are explained in Part 2 – Performance Reporting. Information can also be found on the Department’s internet site, accessible at <www.health.gov.au>.

Decision-making PowersIn 2006–07, Ministers and/or departmental officers exercised decision-making powers under the following Acts, or parts of Acts, which were administered by the Department:

Aged or Disabled Persons Care Act 1954;

Aged Care Act 1997;

Aged Care (Bond Security) Act 2006;

Aged Care (Bond Security) Levy Act 2006;

Aged Care (Consequential Provisions) Act 1997;

Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Account Act 2001;

Australian Hearing Services Act 1991, subsections 8(4) to 8(8) inclusive;

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Act 1987;

Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Act 1998;

Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety (Licence Charges) Act 1998;

Cancer Australia Act 2006;

Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Act 1961;

Delivered Meals Subsidy Act 1970;

Epidemiological Studies (Confidentiality) Act 1981;

Food Standards Australia New Zealand Act 1991;

Gene Technology Act 2000;

Gene Technology (Licence Charges) Act 2000;

Health and Other Services (Compensation) Act 1995;

Health and Other Services (Compensation) Care Charges Act 1995;

Health Care (Appropriation) Act 1998;

Health Insurance Act 1973;

Health Insurance Commission (Reform and Separation of Functions) Act 1997;

Health Insurance (Pathology) (Fees) Act 1991;

Hearing Services Administration Act 1997;

Hearing Services and AGHS Reform Act 1997;

Home and Community Care Act 1985;

Home Nursing Subsidy Act 1956;

Industrial Chemicals (Notification and Assessment) Act 1989;

Industrial Chemicals (Registration Charge – Customs) Act 1997;

Industrial Chemicals (Registration Charge – Excise) Act 1997;

Industrial Chemicals (Registration Charge – General) Act 1997;

Medical Indemnity Act 2002;

Medical Indemnity (Competitive Advantage Payment) Act 2005;

Medical Indemnity (Prudential Supervision and Product Standards) Act 2003, Part 3, Division 2A;

Medical Indemnity (Run-off Cover Support Payment) Act 2004;

Medical Indemnity (UMP Support Payment) Act 2002;

Medical Indemnity Agreement (Financial Assistance – Binding Commonwealth Obligations) Act 2002;

Narcotic Drugs Act 1967, sections 9, 10, 11, 13, 19 and 23 and subsection 24(1), and so much of the remaining provisions of the Act (other than sections 12 and 22 and subsection 24(2)) as relates to powers and functions under those sections;

National Blood Authority Act 2003;

4.6 FREEDOM OF INFORMATION


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National Health Act 1953;

National Health and Medical Research Council Act 1992;

Nursing Home Charge (Imposition) Act 1994;

Nursing Homes Assistance Act 1974;

Private Health Insurance Act 2007;

Private Health Insurance (Collapsed Organisation Levy) Act 2003;

Private Health Insurance Complaints Levy Act 1995;

Private Health Insurance (Council Administration Levy) Act 2003;

Private Health Insurance Incentives Act 1998;

Private Health Insurance (Prostheses Application and Listing Fees) Act 2007;

Private Health Insurance (Transitional Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Act 2007;

Private Health Insurance (Risk Equalization Levy) Act 2003;

Prohibition of Human Cloning Act 2002;

Research Involving Human Embryos Act 2002;

Quarantine Act 1908, in relation to human quarantine;

Quarantine (Validation of Fees) Act 1985, in relation to human quarantine;

States Grants (Home Care) Act 1969;

States Grants (Nurse Education Transfer Assistance) Act 1985;

States Grants (Paramedical Services) Act 1969;

Therapeutic Goods Act 1989;

Therapeutic Goods (Charges) Act 1989;

Tobacco Advertising Prohibition Act 1992; and

World Health Organization Act 1947.

Portfolio Agencies that Produce an Annual ReportThe following prescribed authorities (as defined by the Freedom of Information Act 1982) in the Health and Ageing portfolio were separate agencies in 2006–07 for the purpose of the Freedom of Information Act 1982. They publish their own annual report and are therefore not covered by this statement:

• Australian Institute of Health and Welfare;

• Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency;

• Cancer Australia;

• Food Standards Australia New Zealand;

• National Blood Authority;

• National Health and Medical Research Council;

• Office of the Aged Care Commissioner;

• Private Health Insurance Administration Council;

• Private Health Insurance Ombudsman;

• Professional Services Review;

• Aged Care Commissioner for Complaints; and

• National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme.

Contact details for agencies not covered by this statement can be found in each agency’s annual report.

Portfolio Authorities Covered by the Department’s Annual ReportFor the purposes of the administration of the Freedom of Information Act 1982, the Department was responsible in 2006–07 for processing requests for access to documents of the following prescribed authorities (as defined by the Freedom of Information Act 1982):

• Acute Care Advisory Committee;

• Aged Care Planning Advisory Committees;

• Australian Community Pharmacy Authority;

• Australian Drug Evaluation Committee;

• Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care;

• Complementary Medicines Evaluation Committee;

• Gene Technology Regulator;

• Gene Technology Community Consultative Committee;

• Gene Technology Ethics Committee;

• Gene Technology Technical Advisory Committee;

• Hearing Services Consultative Committee;

• Medical Device Evaluation Committee;

• Medicines Evaluation Committee;

• National Drugs and Poisons Schedule Committee;

• National Pathology Accreditation Advisory Council;


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• Pathology Services Table Committee;

• Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee;

• Pharmaceutical Benefits Remuneration Tribunal;

• Therapeutic Goods Administration;

• Therapeutic Goods Advertising Codes Council;

• Therapeutic Goods Committee; and

• Therapeutic Goods Complaints Resolution Panel.

Arrangements for Outside Participation in the Formulation of PolicyThe Department welcomed views and comments from members of the public and bodies outside the Government on its policy formulation and administration of portfolio legislation. Public consultation, consumer and stakeholder participation was widely encouraged at varying levels, across all fields of policy and output delivery. Formal arrangements for outside participation included cross-portfolio bodies and bodies specific to outcome classes. Further information regarding formal arrangements can be obtained from the Government Online Directory, accessible at <www.gold.gov.au> and from the Department’s internet site.

Categories of DocumentsThe Department maintained records in various forms and locations relating to the functions of the Health and Ageing portfolio. Records were retained for varying periods, depending on their administrative and historical value, and were disposed of in accordance with standards and practices approved by the National Archives of Australia. The following categories of documents were common throughout the Department and portfolio agencies (unless specified otherwise):

• briefing papers and minutes prepared for the Ministers, the Parliamentary Secretary and senior departmental officers;

• Cabinet documents, including Cabinet submissions/memoranda and documents submitted to Cabinet;

• documents prepared for the Executive Council;

• documents relating to the development of, and explanatory memoranda to Acts, Regulations and other legislative instruments;

• internal administration documents relating to staff management and the organisation and operation of the Department, including personnel records, organisational and staffing

records, financial and resource management records, audit records and internal operating procedures, Requests for Tender, instructions and indexes;

• instruments of appointment;

• ministerial and departmental responses to correspondence and parliamentary questions;

• inter-departmental and general correspondence and papers;

• policy documents, including the development and implementation of government and departmental policy, recommendations and decisions;

• working papers covering functions and issues handled by the Department, including program fund and grant administration and planning documents;

• documents relating to complaints about Commonwealth-funded services;

• agreements, memoranda of understanding and contracts between the Commonwealth, State and Territory governments and other bodies and organisations;

• legal documents, including legislation, contracts, leases, instruments of delegation, legal advices and court documents;

• requests for information under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 and files and papers relevant to the consideration of those requests;

• standard operating procedures and fact sheets;

• separate records of internal departmental management meetings and teleconferences, such as agendas and meetings;

• correspondence with non-government parties (stakeholders);

• records of meetings and teleconferences with external stakeholders, including agendas and minutes;

• financial reports, expenditure estimates and expenditure reports;

• maps, charts, photographs, technical drawings, specifications and technical manuals;

• statistics and databases;

• documents prepared by international agencies;

• reports prepared by other government agencies and consultants;

• international agreements, memoranda of understanding and treaties;


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• documents submitted by third parties;

• departmental publications and occasional papers;

• training materials;

• media releases;

• committee records; and

• mailing lists.

Authorised Freedom of Information Decision-makersThe authority to provide access to documents was held widely throughout the Department, primarily at section-head level (Executive Level 2) and above. Occupants of positions classified as Band 1 or higher in the Senior Executive Service were authorised to provide and refuse access to documents under the Freedom of Information Act 1982. Authority to make other decisions, such as imposing and remitting charges, was also given to appropriate officers.

Facilities for AccessFacilities for inspecting documents to which access is given under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 were provided by the Department in each state and territory capital city and Central Office.

Departmental ManualsIn accordance with section 9 of the Freedom of Information Act 1982, a list has been compiled of unpublished manuals and other documents provided by the Department to officers to assist in making decisions or recommendations that effect the public. The list, as at July 2007, is available on request from the Freedom of Information Coordinator or any office of the National Archives of Australia.

Freedom of Information Statistics 2006–07The following prescribed authorities covered by this statement received requests for access under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 in 2006–07:

Table 4.6.1: Requests for Access

Agency Matters On-hand

(Start 2006-07)

Requests Received

(2006-07)

Requests Finalised

(2006-07)

Requests Outstanding

(End 2006-07)

Department of Health and Ageing

28 150 140 38

Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care

- 1 1 -

Table 4.6.2: Freedom of Information Internal Review Matters

Agency Matters On-hand (Start 2006–07)

Requests Received

(2006–07)

Requests Finalised

(2006–07)

Decision Reviews Outstanding

(End 2006-07)


- 11 11 4 affirmed

2 greater access given

2 withdrawn

1 charge reduced

2 charges not imposed

-


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Table 4.6.3: Freedom of Information Administrative Appeals Tribunal Matters

Agency Matters On-hand (Start 2006–07)

Requests Received

(2006–07)

Requests Finalised

(2006–07)

Decision Appeals Outstanding

(End 2006-07)


- 9 9 2 affirmed

1 access granted

1 greater access given

1 dismissed by the

Administrative Appeals Tribunal

3 withdrawn

1 charge not imposed

-

Freedom of Information Procedures and Contact DetailsA request for access to documents under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 must be in writing, enclosing a $30 application fee and an address in Australia to which notices can be sent. In certain circumstances, the fee is not required or can be remitted. To enable a prompt response and to help the Department meet its obligations under the Freedom of Information Act 1982, as much information as possible is requested about the documents being sought. Inclusion of a telephone number or an electronic mail address is also advisable to allow departmental officers to make contact in case clarification of the request is needed. Applicants may be liable to pay charges at rates prescribed by the Freedom of Information (Fees and Charges) Regulations.

Enquiries regarding submission of a formal request under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 should be directed to the Department’s Freedom of Information Coordinator or State or Territory Office Freedom of Information Contact Officers at:

Freedom of Information Coordinator (Central Office) (02) 6289 1666

New South Wales (02) 9263 3926

Victoria (03) 9665 8872

Queensland (07) 3360 2603

South Australia (08) 8237 8025

Western Australia (08) 9346 5413

Tasmania (03) 6221 1443

Northern Territory (08) 8946 3409

Australian Capital Territory (02) 6289 3352

Requests should be sent to the appropriate office of the Department at the following address:

Freedom of Information Coordinator Department of Health and Ageing GPO Box 9848 CAPITAL CITY

In accordance with the Electronic Transactions Act 1999, Freedom of Information requests may be made by email, addressed to [email protected]. However, as a request must be accompanied by an application fee, in most cases no action will be taken on an emailed request until the application fee is received or a request has been made for the remission of the application fee.


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The Department’s commitment to a safe and healthy work environment and providing return to work opportunities for ill and injured staff, consistent with legislative obligations, continued in 2006–07. This commitment was underpinned by the Department’s Corporate Plan 2006–09, Certified Agreement 2004–2007 and People Strategy 2004–2007 which reflect the importance of occupational health and safety, including the need for healthy staff – both mentally and physically – and an appropriate work and personal life balance.

During the year, the Department continued to work towards achieving National Occupational Health and Safety Strategy 2002–2012 targets and actively promoted the organisation’s Health and Life Strategy. The following discussion provides information on other related activities which is required under Section 74 of the Occupational Health and Safety (Commonwealth Employment Act) 1991.

Health and Safety Management Arrangements

Occupational Health and Safety Policy and Agreement

The Occupational Health and Safety Policy and Agreement articulate the governance and structural arrangements of the Department’s occupational health and safety framework. The agreement will be reviewed in 2007–08 to reflect changes to the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1991.

Occupational Health and Safety Committees

Occupational Health and Safety Committees in Central Office, each State and Territory Office and the Therapeutic Goods Administration met regularly during the year to discuss and address safety issues.

Other committees with key roles in addressing safety included staff consultative forums in organisational units of the Department, the Institutional Bio Safety Committee and the Laboratory Safety Committee in the Therapeutic Goods Administration, and emergency planning committees. These actions were consistent with the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1991.

Health and Safety Representatives

All organisational units had Designated Work Groups, Health and Safety Representatives and deputies in place to identify and risk manage issues in consultation with local managers. During 2006–07, the Department actively undertook nomination and appointment processes in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1991 to fill Health and Safety Representative (and deputy) vacancies on staff movements and designated work group changes.

Initiatives during the year to ensure the health, safety and welfare at work of employees and contractors of the Department.The Department undertook a range of initiatives in 2006–07 under its Health and Life Strategy to increase staff health and wellbeing and reduce the rate of illness and injury. Other related measures included a Respect campaign which raised staff awareness of the Australian Public Service Code of Conduct and the importance of treating staff with respect and courtesy, without harassment; and the development of organisational and local action plans informed by the findings of the Department’s 2006 Staff Survey.

The Department arranged for managers to complete, on a quarterly basis, a Control Self Assessment tool which facilitated occupational health and safety compliance on the management of staff absences, workplace injuries and harassment, and appointment of Health and Safety Representatives. These representatives included first aid officers, fire wardens and workplace harassment contact officers.

The Department provided occupational health and safety programs for first aid services, emergency evacuation systems, fire safety systems, eyesight testing and workstation setup assistance for staff. Special needs equipment through the Department’s Reasonable Adjustment Program was provided, as was training and occupational health and safety guidance material on safety related topics.

Employer-funded immunisation (including hepatitis B and influenza) was available for staff identified at risk or presenting a potential risk to clients through their work. Other interestedthrough their work. Other interested staff could access a voluntary ‘user pays’ on-sitevoluntary ‘user pays’ on-site‘user pays’ on-site influenza vaccination program.

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Statistics of any accidents or dangerous occurrences during the year that arose out of the conduct of undertakings by the Department and that required the giving of notice under Section 68.In 2006–07, the Department reported four dangerous occurrences and three serious personal injury incidents to Comcare under Section 68 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1991. The Department investigated all reports and undertook all necessary action.

Any investigations conducted during the year that relate to undertakings carried on by the employer, including details of all notices given to the employer under Sections 29, 46 and 47 during the year.During 2006–07, the Department conducted examinations for staff safety which included testing of and for electrical equipment, air quality and cooling tower functions. In addition, the Department provided staff with access to eyesight testing and medical examinations to determine fitness for duty.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration also engaged the National Safety Council of Australia to audit its Occupational Health and Safety Management System against Australian Standard 4801. As a result, a more robust safety management system for external contractors will be implemented in the next financial year.

No directions or notices under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1991 were served on the Department during the year by Health and Safety Representatives or Comcare.


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4.8 STAFFING INFORMATION

The following tables provide information on Australian Public Service (APS) employees engaged by the Department in 2006–07 under the Public Service Act 1999. The tables include information on staff numbers, locations, aggregated information on salary, performance pay and non-salary benefits provided to staff in 2006–07 under the Department’s Certified Agreement and Australian Workplace Agreements.

Table 4.8.1: Staff Numbers by Classification at 30 June 2007

Female Male

Classification Full time Part time Full time Part time Total

Secretary 1 0 0 0 1

Holder of Public Office 3 0 0 0 3

Senior Executive Band 3 1 0 3 0 4



Executive Level 2 259 29 243 12 543

Executive Level 1 657 166 398 30 1,251

APS6 738 169 326 17 1,250

APS5 470 99 161 8 738

APS4 259 43 73 6 381

APS3 121 25 30 7 183

APS2 15 16 7 13 51

APS1 5 30 5 12 52

Cadet 6 0 2 0 8

Graduate 74 0 20 0 94

Legal 20 14 21 0 55

Medical 15 3 27 4 49

Professional 5 1 2 0 8

Public Affairs 14 6 13 3 36

Research Scientist 2 1 2 0 5

Total 2,730 602 1,374 112 4,818

The above table represents the head count figures of all staff by classification as at 30 June 2007. It includes inoperative staff and staff acting at a higher level, for any period, as at 30 June 2007 (ie these staff are listed against their higher classification).


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Table 4.8.2: Distribution of Staff by Unit at 30 June 2007

Female Male

Unit OngoingNon-

ongoing OngoingNon-

ongoing Total

Acute Care Division 149 9 54 7 219

Ageing and Aged Care Division* 260 39 88 19 406

Audit and Fraud Control Branch 4 0 7 1 12

Business Group 276 98 181 54 609

Executive 8 0 4 1 13

Medical Benefits Division 117 26 68 11 222

Mental Health and Workforce Division 173 46 51 19 289

Office for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health 108 27 36 10 181

Office of Health Protection 95 9 36 2 142

Pharmaceutical Benefits Division 124 22 63 6 215

Population Health Division 242 23 48 7 320

Portfolio Strategies Division 107 24 39 11 181

Primary and Ambulatory Care Division 209 33 71 12 325

Regulatory Policy and Governance Division 31 7 16 3 57

Therapeutic Goods Administration non-trust 19 2 22 0 43

Office of the Gene Technology Regulator 30 1 25 1 57

National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme 19 3 21 1 44

Central Office Total 1,971 369 830 165 3,335

Australian Capital Territory Office 15 8 6 0 29

New South Wales Office 135 33 54 11 233

Northern Territory Office 45 13 11 1 70

Queensland Office 108 24 30 9 171

South Australia Office 59 7 32 5 103

Tasmania Office 30 7 10 0 47

Victoria Office 114 31 48 8 201

Western Australia Office 71 6 30 3 110

State Office Total 577 129 221 37 964

Core Department Total 2,548 498 1,051 202 4,299

Therapeutic Goods Administration trust 250 36 216 17 519

Departmental Total 2,798 534 1,267 219 4,818

* Includes resourcing for the Office of Aged Care Quality and Compliance. The above table represents the head count figures of all staff by Unit as at 30 June 2007. It includes inoperative staff. Non-ongoing figures include casual staff.


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Table 4.8.3: Distribution of Staff by State and Territories at 30 June 2007

State Core Department TGA* Trust Total

Australian Capital Territory** 3,299 496 3,795

New South Wales 285 10 295

Victoria 203 11 214

Queensland 176 0 176

South Australia 104 2 106

Western Australia 113 0 113

Tasmania 48 0 48

Northern Territory 71 0 71

Total 4,299 519 4,818

* Therapeutic Goods Administration.

** Includes the Australian Capital Territory Office and Central Office. The above table represents the head count figures of all staff by state and territories as at 30 June 2007. It includes inoperative staff and out-posted staff.

Table 4.8.4: Senior Executive Staff (SES) and equivalent Executive Professionals with Australian Workplace Agreements current at 30 June 2007

Number of Approved Australian Workplace Agreements

Level Female Male Total

Senior Executive Band 3 1 3 4



Chief Medical Officer 0 1 1

Medical Officer Class 6 2 2 4

Medical Officer Class 5 4 12 16

Senior Principal Research Scientist 2 2 4

Total 56 47 103

This table includes SES and equivalent Executive Professionals who had an approved Australian Workplace Agreement at their nominal classification and were employed by the Department at 30 June 2007.

Table 4.8.5: Non-SES with Australian Workplace Agreements current at 30 June 2007

Level Number of Approved Australian Workplace Agreements

Medical Officers 1–4 12

Other non-SES staff 426

Total 438

This table includes staff who had an approved Australian Workplace Agreement at their nominal classification and were employed by the Department at 30 June 2007. Staff who were on leave at 30 June 2007 have been included in the figures.


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Table 4.8.6: APS Levels Salary Structure

Classification Salary ranges as at 1 July 2006 August 2006 3.9% Increase

Executive Level 2 *96,910 *100,689

Executive Level 2 95,292 99,008







APS 6 65,053 67,590

APS 6 63,628 66,110

APS 6 60,460 62,818

APS 6 57,664 59,912

APS 5 55,170 57,322

APS 5 53,693 55,787

APS 5 52,272 54,310

APS 4 50,778 52,759

APS 4 49,381 51,306

APS 4 48,059 49,933

APS 3 47,016 48,850

APS 3 44,883 46,634

APS 3 43,619 45,320

APS 3 42,418 44,072

APS 2 40,055 41,617

APS 2 38,941 40,460

APS 2 37,807 39,281

APS 2 36,706 38,137

APS 1 35,270 36,646

APS 1 33,630 34,941

APS 1 32,517 33,785

APS 1 31,406 32,631

At 20 years 28,579 29,694

At 19 years 25,439 26,431

At 18 years 21,984 22,841

Under 18 years 18,844 19,579

* Retention point for staff classified as Senior Professional Officer Engineering Grade A at the time of translation to the Australian Public Service Classification Structure.


PART

4.8

Table 4.8.7: Professional 1 Salary Structure

Local Title APS ClassificationSalary Ranges as at

1 July 2006August 2006

3.9% Increase

Professional 1 APS 5 55,170 57,322

APS 5 53,693 55,787

APS 4 49,381 51,306

#APS 4 48,059 49,933

##APS 3 44,883 46,634

APS 3 43,619 45,320

# Salary on commencement for a 4 year degree (or higher). ## Salary on commencement for a 3 year degree.

Table 4.8.8: Medical Officer Salary Structure

Local TitleSalary Ranges as

at 1 July 2006August 2006

3.9% Increase

Medical Officer Class 4 120,234 124,923

113,489 117,915

109,233 113,493


100,166 104,073


89,583 93,077


74,161 77,053

68,906 71,594

63,608 66,089


PART

4.8

Table 4.8.9: Legal Salary Structure



3.9% Increase

Legal 2 Executive Level 2 100,800 104,731

97,717 101,528

92,289 95,889

Legal 1 Executive Level 1 85,795 89,141



APS 6 63,380 65,852

APS 6 60,044 62,386

APS 6 56,709 58,920

APS 5 53,373 55,454

APS 4 50,037 51,988

APS 3 46,701 48,522

Table 4.8.10: Public Affairs Salary Structure



3.9% Increase

Senior Public Affairs 2 Executive Level 2 99,995 103,895

96,910 100,689

Senior Public Affairs 1 Executive Level 2 92,212 95,808

Public Affairs 3 Executive Level 1 85,802 89,149

80,182 83,309

75,033 77,960

Public Affairs 2 APS 6 65,121 67,660

APS 6 60,460 62,818

APS 6 57,664 59,912

Public Affairs 1 APS 5 55,170 57,322

APS 5 53,693 55,787

APS 4 50,778 52,759

*APS 4 48,059 49,933

* This level is generally reserved for staff with less than two years experience.


PART

4.8

Table 4.8.11: Research Scientist Salary Structure



3.9% Increase

Senior Principal Research Scientist Executive Level 2 126,132 131,051

113,900 118,343

Principal Research Scientist Executive Level 2 109,808 114,091

105,823 109,950

102,909 106,922

100,179 104,086

97,094 100,880

Senior Research Scientist Executive Level 2 96,910 100,689

90,856 94,399

84,543 87,841

80,182 83,309

Research Scientist Executive Level 1 76,145 79,115


APS 6 60,573 62,935

APS 6 57,409 59,648

APS 6 55,847 58,025

Table 4.8.12: Graduate APS Salary Structure – Commencement Salary

ClassificationSalary as


3.9% Increase

Graduate APS 40,055 41,618


PART

4.8

Table 4.8.13: Cadet Salary Structure

ClassificationSalary Ranges as


3.9% Increase

Cadet Full Time Study 17,563 18,248

15,983 16,606

14,226 14,781

12,295 12,774

10,538 10,949

Cadet Practical Training 35,132 36,502

33,247 34,544

32,374 33,636

31,323 32,545

28,504 29,616

25,372 26,362

21,926 22,781

18,794 19,527

Table 4.8.14: SES and Senior Medical Officer Indicative Salary Bandwidths*

Classification Minimum Maximum

SES Band 1 115,000 132,000

SES Band 2 150,000 168,000

SES Band 3 183,750 196,000



* These are indicative as the Secretary may approve salary rates outside these bands.


PART

4.8

Table 4.8.15: Non-salary Benefits – Core Department including the Department’s Regulators

Non-SES Staff – Certified Agreement

Access to the Employee Assistance Program.

Extended purchased leave.

Flextime.

Study assistance.

Support for professional and personal development.

Award scheme.

Flexible working locations including, where appropriate, access to lap-top computers, dial in facilities, and mobile phones.

Access to negotiated discount registration/membership fees to join a fitness or health club.

Reimbursement of eyesight testing and eyewear costs prescribed specifically for use with screen based equipment.

Influenza and hepatitis B vaccinations for staff who are required to come into regular contact with members of the community classified as at increased risk with regard to influenza.

Flexible working hours.

Parental leave.

Leave for personal compelling reasons and exceptional circumstances.

Pay-out of additional duty in certain circumstances.

Recognition of travel time.

Non-SES Staff – Australian Workplace Agreement

All the above benefits except flextime.

SES Staff – Australian Workplace Agreement

Private use of motor vehicles or an allowance in lieu (not all officers).

Base salary (negotiable, usually within the notified bandwidths for that level).

Eligibility for performance based base.

Executive vehicle cash-out allowance.

Car parking.

Flexibility to negotiate an enhanced remuneration when necessary (upon satisfying specific criteria).

PART

4.8

Table 4.8.16: SES Performance-based Payments, 1 July 2006 to 30 June 2007

Level NumberAggregated

AmountAverage Minimum Maximum

SES Bands 2 and 3 16 253,198 15,825 9,250 22,500

SES Band 1 69 654,953 9,492 2,121 18,750

Total 85 908,151 - - -

The above figures include Executive Professional classifications and payments have been aggregated to preserve employees’ privacy.

The performance payments made in 2006–07 relate to assessments for the 2005–06 cycle.

Due to the small numbers of staff at the SES Band 3 level, details for SES Bands 2 and 3 have been combined.

Table 4.8.17: Non-SES Performance-based Payments, 1 July 2006 to 30 June 2007

Level NumberAggregated

AmountAverage Minimum Maximum

Medical Officers 3 and 4 10 57,113 5,711 3,823 8,416

Other non-SES staff 349 1,810,694 5,188 768 17,250

Total 359 1,867,808 - - -

Payments have been aggregated to preserve employees’ privacy.

The performance payments made in 2006–07 relate to assessments for the 2005–06 cycle.

Performance bonus payments are only available to staff with a current AWA which provides eligibility.

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND AGEING272