Department for Planning and Infrastructure
Government of Western Australia
Annual Report
2008-2009
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Our Purpose
The Department plans, regulates and manages land and transport systems and services for
a growing and vibrant State.
Our Vision
Integrated planning and infrastructure to enrich and sustain the wellbeing of Western
Australians.
Our Services
The Department benefits the community in many ways through planning and regulation of
transport systems, licensing services, land accessibility planning, tenure and development
and the development of integrated land and transport policy.
Our Goals
We will be known for our positive engagement with stakeholders and customers as we:
• Provide innovative, timely and well-planned solutions for:
• land-use, transport and infrastructure delivery; and
• an accessible, safe and well-regulated transport system
• Manage growth to achieve beneficial economic, social and environmental outcomes.
Our Outcomes
An accessible and safe transport system
Road users that meet established vehicle standards and driver competencies
Accessibility to serviced land and infrastructure
Integration of land and transport systems that facilitates economic development.
Our Values
Teamwork
We work together in the spirit of cooperation.
Respect
We welcome and accept differences and commonalities.
Passion
We embrace work with enthusiasm and energy.
Learning and innovation
We grow and seek better solutions.
Commitment and pride
We strive to excellence and do our best.
Honesty and integrity
We act ethically and fairly.
Leadership
We inspire and guide others.
Understanding
We listen and respond appropriately.
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OVERVIEW OF AGENCY
Statement of Compliance with the Financial Management Act 2006 4
Message from the Director General 5
Executive Summary 7
Financial Summary 11
Operational Structure 13
Legislation Priorities 15
Performance Management Framework 17
AGENCY PERFORMANCE - REPORT ON OPERATIONS- 19
Goal 1: Outcomes Based Service Delivery 20
Goal 2: State Building - Major Projects 50
SIGNIFICANT ISSUES AND TRENDS- 77
DISCLOSURES AND LEGAL COMPLIANCE
Government Policy Requirements 81
Corruption Prevention 81
Substantive Equality 82
Occupational Safety and Health, Injury Management 84
Internal Audit Reviews 86
Risk Management 87
Freedom of Information 87
Other Legal Requirements 90
Advertising 92
Disability Access and Inclusion Plan Outcomes 92
Compliance with Public Sector Standards and Ethical Codes 97
Recordkeeping 99
Information Systems 101
Reconciliation Action Plan 102
Governance Disclosures 102
Ministerial Directives 102
Financial Disclosures 102
Pricing Policies of Services Provided 102
Major Capital Projects 103
Employment and Industrial Relations 104
Staffing Policy Recruitment 104
Workers Compensation 106
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Auditor General Independent Audit Opinion 107
Certification of Financial Statements 110
Financial Statements 111
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
Certification of Key Performance Indicators 188
Key Performance Indicators 189
OFFICE LOCATIONS 215
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Statement of Compliance with the Financial Management
Act 2006
For the year ended 30 June 2009
To the Minister for Planning, Minister for Transport, Minister for Regional Development and
Lands,
Hon John Day MLA / Hon Simon O‟Brien MLC / Hon Brendon Grylls MLA
In accordance with section 61 of the Financial Management Act 2006, I hereby submit for
your information and presentation to Parliament the Department for Planning and
Infrastructure‟s annual report for the financial year ended 30 June 2009.
The report has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Financial
Management Act 2006 and fulfils the Department‟s reporting obligations under the Public
Sector Management Act 1994, the Disability Services Act 1993 and the Electoral Act 1907.
Eric Lumsden PSM
Director General
Department for Planning and Infrastructure
10 September 2009
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Message From The Director General
The last 12 months have been an extraordinary period of change.
Many factors both local and international have directly impacted on the day to day
operations and future direction of the Department for Planning and Infrastructure.
Impacts of the global financial crisis and subsequent economic downturn created a
challenging environment with consequences that included rising unemployment and
declining budgets. This is in stark contrast from the resources boom experienced in previous
years.
In response to these testing circumstances, the State Government introduced a 3%
efficiency goal, which motivated further efficiencies within the Department and across
Government.
In addition to implementing efficiencies, existing and planned departmental projects were
also reprioritised in preparation for the imminent reduction in the State Government budget,
which presented fresh challenges associated with the delivery of essential projects.
Coinciding with the changing financial environment, a State election was held and after
polling day on the 6th September last year; a change of State Government was announced.
As a result of a new Ministry and new State Government priorities, on the 8th April this year
the Premier Colin Barnett announced the Department for Planning and Infrastructure (DPI)
would be restructured.
The purpose of the restructure was to allow the State‟s Planning and State‟s Transport tasks
to be given a stronger and more specific focus.
In the months that followed the announcement; a great deal of work occurred and I would
like to thank all of the teams within DPI who were so dedicated to ensuring all operational
arrangements were in place for 1 July 2009 as requested by the Premier.
I would also like to acknowledge the Acting Director General for Transport, Menno
Henneveld for his cooperation when working through this complex process.
These new arrangements will now enable the Department of Planning to concentrate solely
on strategic planning and integrated land use planning across the State.
Additionally the Department of Transport will focus on strategic transport planning and policy
across the range of public and commercial transport systems that service the State,
including the operational transport functions.
On an operational note, July 2008 marked the identification that an error had occurred
relating to the release of vehicle licensing information to Wilson Parking and Westralia
Airports Corporation. The discovery of this error was swiftly followed by a comprehensive
investigation, followed by the results being tabled in parliament on 10 December 2008.
This incident was incredibly challenging however it provided the opportunity to review and
improve all protocols and processes‟ relating to the delivery of licensing services and a
marked improvement has now been achieved.
As you will see when reading the Report on Operations, throughout the 2008-09 financial
year the DPI delivered many valuable initiatives that will be enjoyed by the people living or
visiting the State now and in the years ahead.
I am very proud and appreciative of all the hard work, commitment and contributions made
by everyone within the Department and this report helps to showcase their dedication.
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I look forward to embracing the exciting times that lie ahead while leading the new
Department in the development of planning solutions that best meet the needs of all Western
Australians now and in the decades to come.
Eric Lumsden PSM
Director General
Department for Planning and Infrastructure
10 September 2009
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Executive Summary
The Department for Planning and Infrastructure is responsible for what is arguably the most
diverse range of activities in State Government.
This diversity presents the Department with the opportunity to enhance the quality of life for
every household and person in the State.
Since the Department‟s creation in 2001 it has faced many challenges.
At first the challenges related to the States resources boom, which saw unprecedented
growth in the State‟s population resulting in huge demand on the States services and
infrastructure.
On the other hand, in the 2008-09 financial year the circumstances changed dramatically as
a consequence of the global economic crisis.
This report highlights the Department‟s achievements while operating in this changing
financial environment with reduced resources yet a continued growth in demand for services.
The detailed Report on Operations section of this document expands on the great diversity
of the Department‟s activities while relating them to the relevant new State Government
goals.
In this summary you will gain a snapshot of some of the Department‟s key achievements
during 2008-09 financial year.
The Department processed 6718 separate land transactions that generated $33.418 million
from administered land sales and $11.448 million from rental fees associated with land and
sea/river bed leases.
Over the last 12 months the State Land Services Business Unit transferred land totalling
almost $3.399 million in line with Government agreements.
The Department worked with Carnegie Corporation to successfully issue a licence to the
Corporation for over 30,147 hectares of the Albany coastline allowing the establishment of
the CETO wave energy project. The Department for Planning and Infrastructure is
responsible for what is arguably the most diverse range of activities in State Government.
This diversity presents the Department with the opportunity to enhance the quality of life for
every household and person in the State.
Since the Department‟s creation in 2001 it has faced many challenges.
At first the challenges related to the States resources boom, which saw unprecedented
growth in the State‟s population resulting in huge demand on the States services and
infrastructure.
On the other hand, in the 2008-09 financial year the circumstances changed dramatically as
a consequence of the global economic crisis.
This report highlights the Department‟s achievements while operating in this changing
financial environment with reduced resources yet a continued growth in demand for services.
The detailed Report on Operations section of this document expands on the great diversity
of the Department‟s activities while relating them to the relevant new State Government
goals.
In this summary you will gain a snapshot of some of the Department‟s key achievements
during 2008-09 financial year.
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The Department processed 6718 separate land transactions that generated $33.418 million
from administered land sales and $11.448 million from rental fees associated with land and
sea/river bed leases.
Over the last 12 months the State Land Services Business Unit transferred land totalling
almost $3.399 million in line with Government agreements.
The Department worked with Carnegie Corporation to successfully issue a licence to the
Corporation for over 30,147 hectares of the Albany coastline allowing the establishment of
the CETO wave energy project.
In addition associated land policy was developed to address the growing need for State land
by renewable energy organisations.
A bulletin for the Estimated Resident Population was developed and published; this work is
continuing in relation to new population projections for all local government areas and
completion is scheduled for 2009–10.
An Industrial Land Strategy has been developed over the year and is due for completion in
July 2009. It represents investigation of past and future trends for demand and supply of
industrial land in the Perth Metropolitan and Peel regions and identifies potential land to
meet the forecast demand.
The Department commenced work on the social impact assessment for the Kimberley LNG
precinct, which is required as a component of the environmental approvals for the precinct.
Transit Oriented Development (TOD) assists, stimulates and facilitates the development and
revitalisation of rail station centres and surrounding precincts. In 2008-09 TOD related
activities included precinct studies at Stirling, Canning Bridge, Murdoch and Ashfield
stations.
In the last 12 months industry applied for the construction of 26,119 residential lots, 22,772
of these lots were granted conditional approval. Industry returned to the Department for final
approval on 12,179 constructed lots taking the total at the end of June this year to 73,408
lots with conditional approval. This supply will continue to be monitored to ensure demand
can be met.
Coastwest grant agreements were put in place and staged funding commenced for
successful projects announced in June 2008. Fifteen grant projects from previous rounds
were completed and acquitted. In June this year 26 projects were allocated Coastwest
grants totalling around $639,000. The largest grant will fund the protection of the
Leschenault Peninsula Conservation Park.
In 2008–09 the Department, in conjunction with the industry and railway operators,
determined the infrastructure and operational costs to re-establish a rail freight service to
transport plantation logs between North Greenbushes and the Port of Bunbury. The
Government subsequently committed $19.45 million for the substantial upgrade.
The Rail Safety Business Unit also worked closely with industry and took the total of
accredited rail transport operators in Western Australia to 26.
This year, the Department released broad-hectare sites totalling over 50 hectares for
residential developments in Broome, Karratha, Kulin, Newman, Port Hedland, South
Hedland and Tom Price as well as light industrial land at Karratha.
The Pastoral Lands Board governance review was completed during 2008- 09 reinforcing
the significance and role of the board. In addition a great deal of preparatory work has
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occurred in relation to the 2015 pastoral lease renewals and this will continue in the coming
year to ensure the project stays on schedule.
The Department‟s aviation team completed an intrastate aviation review and the results were
presented to the Minister. The team also managed the 2008-09 Regional Airports
Development Scheme (RADS) funding round and awarded 20 regional communities grants
totalling more than $2 million.
Passenger Services in their capacity as taxi industry regulator recarried out 1565 Taxi Driver
Registration tests during 2008-09 which is an increase of 555 from the previous year. New
and existing drivers transported more than 11 million passengers in the last 12 months.
Driver safety became a focus for the industry resulting in an awareness campaign being
developed to help reduce anti social behaviour towards taxi drivers. Further initiatives have
been developed that will improve driver and passenger safety including the Secure Taxi
Rank Extension Trial.
Hillarys Boat Harbour was one of four finalists at the Marine Industry Association‟s 2009
Australian Marina of the Year awards held in Surfers Paradise in May 2009 and received an
Award of Excellence.
The Department awarded a contract for the construction of 43 new pens at Hillarys to help
with increasing demand and 65 new pens were constructed at Fremantle Fishing Boat
Harbour.
Woodman Point became the largest boat launching facility in WA with a total of eight public
boat ramps.
Greater awareness of marine safety in WA was achieved with 24,600 Recreational Skippers
Tickets (RST) being granted over the year taking the total to 124,000.
Regional Services provide the whole array of departmental services to regional WA
communities, via their “one-stop shops” based in Albany, Broome, Bunbury, Carnarvon,
Exmouth, Geraldton, Kalgoorlie and Karratha.
Through the Licensing Business Unit, the Department is one of the highest contributors to
Western Australia‟s revenue base, providing funds for valuable community services. In
2008–09, the Department‟s Licensing Business Unit collected over $1.465 billion in revenue.
Practical Driver Assessments totalled 127,800 for the year and the number of vehicle
licences issued increased to more than 2.3 million.
Licensing was faced with managing the events that followed personal licensing information
being released to Wilson Parking and Westralia Airports Corporation.
Following the discovery of this error in July 2008, a comprehensive investigation was carried
out. Subsequently, a report on the outcomes from the investigation was tabled in Parliament
on the 9 December 2008.
34 recommendations for improvements of the controls surrounding information released by
the DPI‟s Licensing Business Unit were accepted and implemented by the business unit over
the following months.
The whole incident acted as a catalyst for change within the business unit and significant
improvements to operational process and protocols have been implemented and will
continue to evolve.
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All of these outcomes occurred in addition to the Premier, Colin Barnett‟s announcement on
8 April 2009 that there would be a restructure of the Department for Planning and
Infrastructure into the Department of Planning.
This involved all transport functions within DPI being transferred to the newly created
Department of Transport.
State Land Services and the Pastoral Lands Business Unit were transferred to the
Department of Regional Development and Lands.
Set up work was completed on schedule allowing all new arrangements to be in place on 1
July 2009. The cooperation of all parties involved led to the success of this transition.
These changes present a great opportunity for all the Departments involved to have a
stronger focus on important areas within State Government.
For more information relating to these changes please visit:-
www.planning.wa.gov.au
www.transport.wa.gov.au
www.rdl.wa.gov.au
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Financial Summary
In 2008-09, the Department recorded a net cost of services totalling $185.07 million.
Expenditure on ordinary activities totalled $336.76 million.
The Department provided a highly diverse range of products and services to its numerous
stakeholders, clients and customers, including:
• Transport system planning and regulation
• Motor vehicle registration and driver licensing;
• Land accessibility planning, tenure and policy development; and
• Integrated land and transport policy development.
The major expense categories were:
• Employee expenses (43.1%)
• Supplies and services (29.9%)
• Grants and subsidies (18.1%)
Operating revenues of $151.69 million were raised in 2008-09. The revenue was derived
from a range of services including:
• boat registrations;
• small boat harbour fees;
• motor vehicle and driver licenses;
• Perth parking fees; and
• services to the Western Australian Planning Commission and the Insurance Commission of
Western Australia.
The Department managed a diverse asset base totalling $388.71 million in the provision of
services.
The accompanying chart shows the distribution by asset class.
• Property and equipment 5,963
• Infrastructure 119,811
• Intangible assets 17,866
• Construction in progress 25,343
• Land and buildings 219,724
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The Department‟s equity at 30 June 2009 was $522.93 million, being an increase of $39.42
million. The increase is linked primarily to gains in respect of asset revaluations of $25.43
million and contributions of $4.06 million from the Government for funding capital
expenditure during the year, and an increase in the accumulated surplus of $9.93 million.
Funding for the operations of the Department was sourced from Revenues from Government
of $195 million (primarily appropriations $194.49 million) and Retained Revenues of $151.67
million (as shown above under Income by Category).
The Department also administered functions on behalf of the Department of Treasury and
Finance and other Government agencies. The Administered revenue from these functions
totalled $1,473 million in 2008-09.
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Operational Structure
Roles and responsibilities
The Department for Planning and Infrastructure was created on 1 July 2001 with the merger
of the former Ministry for Planning and Department of Transport. The Office of Road Safety
moved to the Department of the Premier and Cabinet on 1 July 2002.
As at 1 July 2003, the management of Crown land in Western Australia, including pastoral
leases moved from the Department of Land Administration to this Department. School Bus
Services and Transperth moved to the new Public Transport Authority.
The Department was created under the Public Sector Management Act 1994 to assist the
Minister for Planning and Infrastructure to administer those statutes that provide the
legislative framework for integrated transport and Planning for Western Australia.
The framework of accountability in government requires that the Director General is primarily
accountable to the Minister for the Department‟s activities and, through the Minister, to the
Parliament. The Director General:
• advises the Minister on portfolio issues, operating and financial performance, and any
development that is likely to seriously affect the Department‟s operations;
• sets, monitors and reviews the directions of the Department;
• ensures that the Department‟s objectives and goals are achieved;
• works collaboratively with other portfolio agencies and the private sector;
• monitors the performance of the organisation; and
• adopts sound management practice consistent with Public Sector requirements.
The Director General is responsible for the governance of the Department under a number
of Acts. The most significant of these are:
• Financial Management Act 2006;
• Public Sector Management Act 1994;
• Equal Opportunity Act 1984;
• Freedom of Information Act 1992;
• Library Board of WA Act 1951;
• State Trading Concerns Act 1916; and
• State Records Act 2000.
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The Executive Management Committee is made up of the Director General, the Deputy
Director General and two Assistant Directors General. This committee:
• sets, monitors and reviews the direction of the Department;
• works collaboratively with portfolio agencies;
• determines priorities for funding;
• establishes and implements corporate policies;
• monitors performance;
• models desired values and behaviours; and
• complies with relevant government directives, guidelines and legislation.
Deliberations of meetings are recorded permanently and the content of the proceedings is
communicated effectively to all staff on a regular basis.
Following the election in September 2008, a new Minister for Transport, Minister for Planning
and Minister for Regional Development and Lands have been appointed, and the
Department has since been reporting to all three ministers.
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Legislation priorities
During 2008–09, the Department for Planning and Infrastructure administered the following
Acts:
Air Navigation Act 1937
Albany Lot 184 (Validation of Title) Act 1956
Anglican Church of Australia Diocesan Trustees and Lands Act 1918
Anglican Church of Australia Lands Vesting Act 1892
Anglican Church of Australia School Lands Act 1896
Armadale Redevelopment Act 2001
Cambridge Endowment Lands Act 1920
Canning Lands Revestment Act 1954
Caves House Disposal Act 1965
Chevron-Hilton Hotel Agreement Act 1960
City of Perth (Lathlain Park Reserves) Act 1950
City of Perth (Leederville Park Lands) Act 1950
Civil Aviation (Carriers‟ Liability) Act 1961
College Street Closure Act 1958
Damage by Aircraft Act 1964
East Carey Park Land Vesting Act 1957
East Perth Redevelopment Act 1991
Fitzgerald Street Bus Bridge Act 1991
Forrest Place and City Station Development Act 1985
Fremantle City Council Lands Act 1929
Fremantle Endowment Lands Act 1929
Fremantle Reserves Surrender Act 1912
Geraldton Agricultural and Horticultural Society‟s Land Act 1914
Geraldton Sailors and Soldiers‟ Memorial Institute
Lands Vesting Act 1933
Harbours and Jetties Act 1928
Hope Valley-Wattleup Redevelopment Act 2000
Jennacubbine Sports Council (Incorporated) Act 1965
Jetties Act 1926
Land Administration Act 1997
Lights (Navigation Protection) Act 1938
Marine and Harbours Act 1981
Marine Navigational Aids Act 1973
Maritime Fees and Charges (Taxing) Act 1999
Midland Redevelopment Act 1999
Native Mission Stations Act 1923
Parks and Reserves Act 1895
Perry Lakes Redevelopment Act 2005
Perth Parking Management (Taxing) Act 1999
Perth Parking Management Act 1999
Perth Town Hall Act 1950
Perth Town Hall Agreement Act 1953
Pilots‟ Limitation of Liability Act 1962
Planning and Development Act 2005
Planning and Development (Consequential and
Transitional Provisions) Act 2005
Pollution of Waters By Oil and Noxious Substances Act 1987
Port Authorities Act 1999
Port Kennedy Development Agreement Act 1992
Rail Safety Act 1998
Railway and Port (The Pilbara Infrastructure Pty Ltd)
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Agreement Act 2004
Railway Discontinuance (No2) Act 2006
Railway Discontinuance Act 2006
Reserves Acts (various)
Resumption Variation (Boulder-Kambalda Road) Act 1973
Returned Sailors and Soldiers‟ Imperial League of
Australia, WA. Branch, Incorporated, Headquarters
Building Act 1933
Road Closure Act 1969
Road Traffic Act 1974
Road Traffic Amendment (Vehicle Licensing) (Taxing)
Act 2001
Roman Catholic New Norcia Church Property Act 1929
Sea Carriage of Goods Act 1909
Shipping and Pilotage Act 1967
Special Lease (Gypsum) Act 1918
Special Lease (Lake Clifton) Act 1916
Special Lease (Stirling Estate) Act 1916
Special Lease Enabling Act 1914
Subiaco Redevelopment Act 1994
Swan Valley Planning Act 1995
War Service Land Settlement Scheme Act 1954
Western Australian Marine Act 1982
Western Australian Marine (Sea Dumping) Act 1981
Wire and Wire Netting Act 1926
The Department advises on the administration of the Eastern Goldfields Transport Act and
generally on legislation covering government-owned transport agencies.
The Motor Vehicle Drivers Instructors‟ Act 1963 is also administered by the Department.
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Performance Management Framework
In September 2006, the Government of Western Australia released Better Planning: Better
Futures – A Framework for the Strategic Management of the Western Australian Public
Sector, a blueprint for creating the best opportunities for current and future generations.
Following the election in September 2008, new whole-of-government goals were introduced
that have a greater emphasis on results, with a strong focus on how the required outcomes
will be achieved.
The Department has reported against the new goals while at the same time noting the
objectives and values of the previous goals.
Goal 1: Outcomes-based Service Delivery.
Greater focus on achieving results in key service delivery areas for the benefit of all Western
Australians.
Goal 2: State Building – Major Projects.
Building strategic infrastructure that will create jobs and underpin Western Australia‟s long-
term economic development.
Goal 3: Social and Environmental Responsibility.
Ensuring that economic activity is managed in a socially and environmentally responsible
manner for the long-term benefit of the State.
Goal 4: Stronger Focus on the Regions.
Greater focus on service delivery, infrastructure investment and economic development to
improve the overall quality of life in remote and regional areas.
Goal 5: Financial and Economic Responsibility.
Due to the activities conducted by the Department, Goal 1 and Goal 2 are the overarching
goals, however please note where appropriate some items also refer to Goals 3, 4 and 5.
Government Goals Department’s Desired Outcomes
Outcomes-based Service Delivery An accessible and safe transport system.
Greater focus on achieving results in key
service delivery areas for the benefit of all Road users that meet established vehicle
Western Australians standards and driver competencies
State Building – Major Projects Accessibility to serviced land an
Building strategic infrastructure that will infrastructure.
create jobs and underpin Western Australia‟s
long term economic development. Integration of land and transport systems
that facilitates economic development.
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Shared responsibilities with other agencies
The Department for Planning and Infrastructure works in partnership with the Western
Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) by providing professional planning and
administrative support to achieve Government and Department desired goals.
The Department is the policy body to the „service‟ agencies of Main Roads Western
Australia, the Public Transport Authority, LandCorp and the State‟s various redevelopment
and port authorities.
During the year, the Department continued to foster relationships with local, state and
federal government agencies through various programs, committees and community
networks.
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Report on Operations
Agency Performance
The Report on Operations outlines all Department achievements during the 2008-09
financial year.
Achievements described in this section are structured by the whole-of-government goal that
they primarily relate to and small notations highlight when items relate to multiple goals.
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Goal 1 Outcomes-based Service Delivery
Greater focus on achieving results in key service delivery
areas for the benefit of all Western Australians.
Improved metropolitan taxi service
The metropolitan taxi industry has improved its performance by increasing the number of
„jobs covered‟ across the Perth Metropolitan area. This has resulted in an increase in the taxi
jobs picked up following a telephone request to a taxi company during Friday and Saturday
night peak times from 96.1 per cent in March 2008 to 97.8 per cent in March 2009.
This is the highest level of performance attained by the industry since performance
standards were introduced in 2000.
More than 11 million passengers per year use taxis. Service levels during non-peak times
have also improved – 97.1 per cent in March 2008 to 98.8 per cent in March 2009. The
following tables show these improvements over the last 12 months.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
„Jobs covered‟ – Total June 2008 to March 2009
Time period Quarter
June 2008 September December March Four quarter
2008 2008 2009 average
Peak 95.8% 96.4% 96.1% 97.8% 96.5%
Off-peak 97.8% 98.3% 98.2% 98.8% 98.3%
„Jobs-covered‟ – Total June 2007 to March 2008
Time period Quarter
June 2007 September December March Four quarter
2007 2007 2008 average
Peak 95.0% 93.8% 93.4% 96.1% 94.6%
Off-peak 97.8% 97.1% 95.9% 97.1% 97.0%
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Taxi rank marshals
Experience in other Australian cities has shown that staffed, secure, and organised taxi
ranks can improve passenger behaviour, encourage more taxi drivers into high-demand
areas, encourage taxi sharing, provide priority access for maxi taxis and thereby reduce
waiting times for taxi customers.
Taxi rank marshals are currently being trialled at the Milligan Street and Fremantle secure
taxi ranks in cooperation with the Taxi Council of Western Australia.
Rank marshals help security guards maintain order by allocating patrons to taxis, assisting
taxi drivers with activities such as explaining and collecting up-front deposits, informing
patrons about fares, and organising unrelated passengers that are heading in the same
direction into groups (if they agree).
This trial commenced in June 2009.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
Secure taxi ranks in suburban areas
The Government is committed to delivering an efficient transport system that includes the
highest standards of performance and safety around taxi services, particularly at times of
high demand. It acknowledges that local governments (LGs) also have an instrumental role
in the delivery of effective taxi services from taxi ranks, particularly in the entertainment
precincts.
LGs have been invited to participate in a pro-active new Secure Taxi Rank Extension Trial
(STRET) program that will see the expansion of secure taxi rank infrastructure beyond its
current locations of Milligan Street and Fremantle. The primary aims of the program are to:
• encourage LGs to consider the benefits of secure taxi ranks at peak late night
entertainment areas;
• assist LGs in the funding of security guards and security infrastructure at taxi ranks that
operate during the peak late night entertainment times on Friday and Saturday nights;
• improve taxi customer service levels through reduced waiting times by attracting more
taxis to the entertainment precincts; and
• create a safer late night environment by facilitating the quick dispersal of potentially
unruly night-time revellers from night-time hotspots.
STRET funding is available to Perth Metropolitan LGs for a trial period of one year from 1
July 2009 to 30 June 2010 to co-fund security guards and combinations of security
infrastructure such as good lighting, CCTV or webcams, signage and barriers.
A pool of funds is available for 50 per cent co-funding and consists of:
• $300,000 towards security guard(s) and possibly a rank marshal; and
• $250,000 towards combinations of security infrastructure.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
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Hands off the taxi driver campaign
This public education campaign began in February 2009 to improve taxi driver safety in the
Perth Metropolitan area. The campaign informed taxi customers of the penalties for an
assault on a taxi driver and also highlighted the fact that all metropolitan taxis carried
security cameras for both driver and customer protection.
The campaign was very well received by the industry and raised considerable awareness
about the issue.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
Taxi driver registration test
Due to the increase in taxi plates in the Perth Metropolitan area, more drivers were needed
to ensure these extra plates continued to be operational. With the increase in drivers
undertaking training to enter the industry, there were delays in providing driver registration
tests by the Department to the new drivers. The registration test is the last component of the
taxi driver testing process and is undertaken by Department staff.
Two officers were appointed as driver registration officers with sole responsibility for
conducting registration tests for new taxi drivers.
Registration tests have increased from 1010 in 2007–08 to 1565 in 2008–09, highlighting the
need for these additional officers to conduct registration tests.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
Festive season campaign
The festive season campaign is an annual campaign to educate the population of Perth on
the travel options available during the festive season; thereby improving transport services.
The demand for transport services, particularly for taxis, is highest during the period leading
up to Christmas, and this campaign is designed to highlight alternative options, such as
public transport. The campaign, combined with security services at key taxi ranks and the
Nightrider service provided by the Public Transport Authority, had a significant impact during
the festive season.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
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Taxi fare model review
In September 2007, the Taxi Council of Western Australia requested an „urgent and
extraordinary‟ increase in taxi fares and regulated charges due to economic pressures on
costs. In response, an interim fare increase of 3.92 per cent from 1 July 2008 was approved,
together with a review of alternative mechanisms to increase fares through the Metropolitan
Taxi Fare Model Review (MTFMR).
The MTFMR was undertaken to help inform the review in terms of the costs and revenues
associated with taxi operation. The MTFMR was guided by a steering committee which
included two taxi industry representatives.
The MTFMR has now been finalised and a new mechanism has been created for future fare
adjustments that better reflects the costs of operating a taxi in Perth. The new mechanism
for fare adjustments is an industry-specific cost index approach, which considers key taxi
costs and measures the change in these costs over time. Consequently, fare increases are
now in line with the movement in the principal costs of a taxi business.
The annual fare adjustment of 2.26 per cent in December 2008 was calculated using this
approach.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
Taxi Industry Board
The Taxi Industry Board (TIB) has been established to provide professional and independent
advice to the Minister for Transport. It will also consider proposals and initiatives that the
Department recommends for the benefit of taxi consumers and the Perth Metropolitan taxi
industry.
The new TIB is operational and is chaired by Mr Barry MacKinnon.
The Taxi Industry Board Reference Group (TIBRG) contributes to the improvement of taxi
functions by providing taxi industry and consumer feedback to the recently formed Taxi
Industry Board. The board comprises of twelve representatives from the taxi industry and the
Perth community.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
23
Downloading of images from taxi security cameras
Incidents which occur in taxis are recorded by the camera fitted in the taxi. The WA Police
was responsible for downloading these images from the cameras when an offence against
the driver occurred. Due to Police resourcing pressures in other areas, a delay was
experienced by taxi drivers waiting at police stations before images from their cameras were
downloaded, resulting in many cases in loss of earnings. After consultation and agreement
with the former Minister and the WA Police, the Department assumed responsibility of this
function from 1 July 2008.
An officer was employed with specific responsibility for coordinating camera downloads. It
soon became evident that the majority of incidents occurred during the early hours of the
morning. This necessitated a compliance officer being on-call 24-hours-a-day to be available
to download images when required.
With the Department undertaking this function, the turnaround times for the drivers has
improved and thus reduced their loss of earnings.
This service is available to the Perth Metropolitan area.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
Geraldton taxi camera trial
While it is mandatory for taxi security cameras to be fitted to metropolitan taxis under the
current regulatory framework, it is not mandatory for cameras to be fitted to country taxis.
Recommendation 23 of the Report on the Review of the Operation and Regulatory Structure
of the Taxi Industry in Regional Western Australia proposed that security cameras must be
fitted in all new country taxis, where the country town in which the taxi operates meets
certain criteria (i.e. the town has a population of 5000 or more and there are at least five
taxis). The Mid-West City of Geraldton fits these criteria.
The Geraldton taxi security camera trial was finalised on 31 July 2008. It was funded by the
Government and allowed for all 24 taxis operating in Geraldton (seven maxi taxis and 17
sedans) to be fitted with security cameras. At the completion of the trial the cameras became
the property of the Geraldton taxi operators.
Overall, the Geraldton taxi security camera trial proved to be a resounding success as it has
had a significant impact on the safety and welfare of Geraldton taxi drivers. The vast majority
of drivers reported feeling safer with the camera installed. In addition, reports of fare
evasions have been minimal and there was a reduction in serious incidents reported.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
Extension of optional peak period taxi operating hours
To balance customer expectations with taxi driver viability, peak period taxis continue to
operate on weekday mornings, during the hours of 5am to 9am, but only on a rostered basis.
The Minister for Transport approved the commencement of this new post-trial program from
14 April 2009 and it is being monitored closely by the Department.
Despite recent decline, performance data indicates that customer demand for taxi services
continues to be high.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
24
‘Green’ taxi evaluation
The „green‟ taxi trial evaluation was undertaken by the Passenger Services Business Unit to
determine the viability of the use of „green‟ taxis, otherwise known as hybrid vehicles, in the
taxi industry.
Figures obtained as part of the evaluation strongly confirm that hybrid vehicles are viable as
taxis – with low fuel consumption and maintenance costs and no reported vehicle problems.
The „green‟ taxis trial customer satisfaction survey also indicated strong customer support.
All respondents advised that they would use a „green‟ taxi in the future and 99 per cent of
respondents supported more environmentally friendly taxis on WA roads.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
Additional boat pen facilities at the Fremantle Fishing Boat
and Hillarys Boat harbours
The recent Perth Recreational Boating Facilities Study researched the community‟s
recreational boating needs within the Perth Metropolitan area. It found that there was strong
and ongoing demand for additional boat pen facilities at the Fremantle Fishing Boat and
Hillarys Boat harbours.
An innovative prepayment funding model was developed and more than $3 million was
received in up-front pen licence payments from people successful in obtaining one of the 65
new pens at Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour. These pens were allocated through a public
ballot held on 7 June 2008.
In October 2008, the Department awarded Engineered Water Systems a contract to
construct both the new floating pens at Fremantle and an additional 43 new pens at Hillarys
at a cost of $6 million. The contract also included a universal access pontoon at Hillarys to
provide improved access to enable people with disabilities, the elderly or those with young
children to board smaller vessels safely.
Practical completion was achieved at Fremantle at the end of May 2009 and is expected at
Hillarys by the end of July 2009.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
25
Hillarys Boat Harbour enhancement program
Hillarys Boat Harbour is now over 20 years old, and since 2005 the State Government has
funded major infrastructure upgrades totalling approximately $9 million as part of the Hillarys
Boat Harbour Enhancement Program.
Stage One and Two works which are now complete, included an extension to the western
breakwater, replacement of the E Jetty pen system, major landscaping works to improve
public facilities and pedestrian access, ablution upgrades for both public and penholder
amenities, improved signage and car park modifications to improve traffic flow.
Stage Three works, which includes major landscaping upgrades to the busiest of the public
areas at the harbour, the southern beach and surrounding areas, centre groyne, grassed
picnic areas and eastern entry areas of the harbour are now underway, with construction
due for completion in spring 2009. These works will provide improved access and facilities to
the public areas at the harbour.
Hillarys Boat Harbour was one of four finalists and received an Award of Excellence at the
Marine Industry Association‟s 2009 Australian Marina of the Year awards held in Surfers
Paradise in May 2009.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
Exmouth Boat Harbour expansion
For several years, there has been strong demand from both the commercial and
recreational, boating sectors to provide additional infrastructure at Exmouth to accommodate
increases in the size and numbers of vessels, as well as the fleet servicing the nearby
offshore oil and gas operations. The development of an expanded harbour facility will bring
to the Exmouth community a new industry base to support the current tourism focus.
The Minister for Transport approved the calling of expressions of interest for the expansion
of the Exmouth Boat Harbour to accommodate these demands, with all development costs
associated with the expansion proposal to be met by the proponent. This process resulted in
two proponents being assessed as suitable to proceed to the Request for Proposal (RFP)
phase.
The Minister for Transport also established a steering committee of community, local and
State Government representatives to oversee this process. Major stakeholder and
community consultation was conducted in May and June 2008 to determine support for the
expansion of the harbour. The Exmouth Harbour Development Community Consultation
Report was endorsed by the Steering Committee and signed off by the Minister in December
2008 with an endorsement to proceed to the RFP phase. The Department‟s Coastal
Infrastructure Business Unit is currently liaising with key government stakeholders to
progress the development of the RFP.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
26
Working on water certificate
At the commencement 2008–09, the Department proposed implementing a certificate called
„Working on Water‟ aimed at providing a useful employment qualification for people engaged
as vessel masters on commercial vessels under eight metres and engaged in low-level
marine activities. However, development of the Working on Water certificate was put on hold
due to its potential overlap with a proposal by Commonwealth and State Transport ministers
to develop the National Approach to Maritime Safety Regulation for the commercial vessel
industry. The development of a national approach will be agreed to by the Council of
Australian Governments on 2 July 2009, and has now superseded the Working on Water
initiative.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
Woodman Point recreational boating precinct
The Perth Recreational Boating Facility Study identified the Woodman Point Recreational
Boating Precinct as an important site that would provide:
• quality public boating facilities to assist with meeting the rapidly growing current and
future demand for boat storage and launching facilities on the metropolitan coast; and
• the opportunity to establish a range of maritime service businesses in a dedicated
marine precinct.
The Minister for Transport officially opened Stage One of the new boating facilities at
Woodman Point on 6 December 2008. Stage One includes four new boat ramps with two
boat holding jetties, a floating universal access jetty, access roads and footpaths, rock walls,
drainage and minor works including fencing, barriers and signage. These works cost $3.29
million and were partially funded by a $1.6 million contribution from the Australand company
as a condition of development approval for its Port Coogee development.
With a total of eight public boat ramps, Woodman Point is now the largest boat launching
facility in WA and the Department is now planning the construction of additional car/trailer
parking bays to service these ramps. The Department has also received expressions of
interest from the private sector to establish a boat storage/stacking facility within the
precinct.
Future works are planned to include the upgrade of the original four ramps and the
development of serviced industrial lots, which will be offered for lease for marine-related
purposes.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
27
Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme
On 17 June 2009, the Minister for Transport announced that a record $1.7 million in grant
funding had been allocated to successful applicants in Round 14 of the Recreational Boating
Facilities Grant Scheme (RBFS).
The RBFS, which is funded directly from recreational boat registration fees, is a State
Government grants program which provides improved recreational boating facilities through
joint funding to local government authorities, state government departments and statutory
authorities throughout Western Australia.
Applications are invited to assist with the development of new, and the upgrade of existing,
recreational boating facilities such as: boat ramps, jetties, navigation aids, signage,
moorings, lighting, trailer parking, ablution blocks, channels, groynes and fish cleaning
facilities, as well as development of feasibility or planning studies which benefit recreational
boating.
Since its inception in 1998, $9.3 million has been allocated through the RBFS to 203 projects
throughout WA. Round 14 attracted 43 applications totalling over $4 million in grant requests
and is a testament to the ongoing need for and the success of the scheme.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3 and 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
28
Marine safety education
The Department has a strong and on-going commitment to marine safety in Western
Australian waters.
In the past 12 months another 24,600 Recreational Skippers Tickets (RST) have been
granted to persons successfully completing the necessary practical and theory requirements.
This takes the total to 124,000.
The RST was introduced to ensure that people in charge of a recreational vessel have at
least a minimum level of skill and knowledge for their own safety and that of any passengers
and others using the waterways.
More recently, the marine safety education program has focused increasingly on schools
and has developed a range of courses and materials designed to engage school students.
Two of these programs, Sea Trek and the schools RST have been endorsed by the WA
Curriculum Council and can be used as credits towards the Western Australian Certificate of
Education for high school graduation.
To date, 25 schools have adopted the RST program. After the Keys for Life program (Drive
Safe) for pre-driver education it is the most popular endorsed program offered by the
Curriculum Council.
A program called „Junior Crew‟, aimed at primary schools, is currently under development
and will be trialled this year.
Youth awareness programs such as these are of great importance in promoting boating
competency and safe behaviour on the water. Approximately 15,500 students participated
during the year in the Boatshed‟s specific education courses and awareness raising
sessions.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
29
Oil pollution response
The Department is the hazard management agency for marine oil spills in WA, and is
responsible for ensuring the State is prepared and able to respond to an incident.
A number of training courses are conducted each year around Western Australia to train
stakeholders in various aspects of oil spill response including:
• incident management;
• operational response;
• shoreline cleanup and assessment; and
• monthly training for a core group of oil spill responders known as the State Response
Team.
This training was put into use when Department staff and other members of the State
Response Team responded to three major incidents in the south of the State, which were all
resolved successfully with no pollution. The most notable of these occurred in Albany in July
2008 involving the vessel Atlantic Eagle and this work extended for a five-week period.
The Department also deployed trained staff to assist Marine Safety Queensland in the
response to the Pacific Adventurer incident where 270 tonnes of oil was spilt and washed up
on beaches in Queensland in March and April 2009.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
Upgrade to Exmouth boat ramps
Residents and visitors to Exmouth have been seeking an upgrade for the Shire of Exmouth‟s
boat ramps at Bundegi and Tantabiddi. Existing facilities were tide restrictive and in a poor
state of repair, with minimal facilities supporting the ramps. In February 2005, the State
Government announced a funding commitment of $1.5 million towards the redevelopment of
the existing boat ramps.
The local community determined that the Bundegi ramp was a priority, and the Department‟s
Coastal Infrastructure Business Unit provided technical assistance to the Shire to enable
delivery of a substantially upgraded boat ramp. Although geotechnical issues challenged the
project and delayed the commencement of works, the Department worked with the Shire and
its project team to resolve the difficulties, and the new facility opened in December 2008.
The available funding of $1.5 million was completely expended on the Bundegi facility.
The Tantabiddi ramp upgrade is at the advanced design stage but will not be considered for
development until further funding is secured.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
30
New boat pens at Exmouth and Geraldton
Following the success of the prepayment model for the construction of pens at Fremantle
Fishing Boat Harbour and increasing demand, the Department of Treasury and Finance
approved expenditure of $2.4 million in 2009–10 and $2.306 million in 2010–11, based on a
similar model to provide additional pens at the Exmouth Boat Harbour and Geraldton Batavia
Coast Marina.
An expression of interest (EOI) process will be conducted to determine if there is the
financial commitment to develop approximately 45 additional boat pens at the Exmouth Boat
Harbour and 50 new boat pens at the Batavia Coast Marina, with additional space for further
construction to be included in the project should there be sufficient demand.
There are currently waiting lists for pens at both locations and the EOI process is expected
to commence by July 2009.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
National standards for commercial vessels
In October 2008, the Department amended numerous regulations applying to commercial
vessels, in order to adopt the updated Uniform Shipping Laws Code (USL Code). The
updated USL Code picked up parts of the National Standard for Commercial Vessels
(NSCV) endorsed by the Australian Transport Council (ATC). Additional amendments to WA
legislation will be made by October 2009 to adopt further changes to the USL Code agreed
to by the ATC in November 2008.
The amendments to the legislation will ensure the marine industry in WA is subject to
nationally consistent, modern, flexible standards for construction, fit-out and operation. This
will lessen the complexity posed by differing regulatory requirements and reduce or eliminate
the incidence of additional compliance costs to industry for vessels that conduct business in
more than one jurisdiction.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
31
Coastal management and protection
With nearly 90 per cent of the State‟s population living on the coastal fringe, the Department
plays a key role in protecting our lifestyle and the environment through providing assistance
to local coastal managers (e.g. local governments) in the coastal management and
protection of land and property from erosion by the ocean.
In 2008–09, maintenance dredging was successfully undertaken to maintain Mandurah
Channel, Dawesville Channel, Exmouth Boat Harbour, Kalbarri River, Bandy Creek Boat
Harbour (Esperance), Lancelin Jetty and Ocean Reef Boat Harbour at a total cost of $2.5
million.
Grants totalling $910,000 and advice were provided to:
• Shire of Busselton (Town Beach groyne and seawall maintenance);
• Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) (Coral Bay – Nine Mile Beach –
sand nourishment);
• DEC (Penguin Island – sand nourishment);
• City of Mandurah (Falcon Beach – sand nourishment);
• Shire of Esperance (Norseman Road – sand nourishment);
• Esperance Port Authority (Town Beach – sand nourishment);
• Esperance Foreshore Erosion Steering Committee (Town Beach rejuvenation);
• Shire of Irwin (Port Denison – Granny‟s Beach – sand nourishment);
• City of Wanneroo (Quinns Beach – groyne maintenance); and
• Town of Cambridge (Floreat Beach – groyne maintenance).
In addition, climate change initiatives were completed to investigate sediment compartments
in partnership with DEC, i.e:
• coastal protection structures inventory (Busselton and Perth);
• a new wave buoy at Jurien;
• collection of aerial photography; and
• a review of the sea level rise in Western Australia.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3 and 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
32
Navigational aids
The Department is responsible for developing and maintaining an extensive network of
navigation aids within Western Australian waters to provide safe passage for recreational
and commercial vessels.
Managing more than 1000 navigation aids in Western Australia involves working closely with
stakeholders to identify enhancement projects that will improve navigation and keep vessel
owners and their passengers safe.
Installing navigational aids greatly assists safe passage of all types of watercraft. The
program has committed to the installation of specific navigational aids such as buoys,
beacons and markers which meet international standards. Investment in state-of-the-art
light-emitting, diode-synchronised, rhythmic lighting technology combined with solar
recharging capabilities and the use of corrosive resistant materials enhances the reliability
and longevity of the navigational aids.
Major navigational aid projects have been completed in both regional and metropolitan
waters over the past 12 months. In the Swan and Canning rivers, navigation markers have
been upgraded to assist skippers, especially at night. This has involved:
• installation of synchronised lighting on existing lateral marks between Point Heathcote and
the Mount Henry Bridge and also between the Causeway and Windan Bridge;
• new lateral marks with synchronised lighting at Canning Bridge and the Causeway; and
• improvements to markers at Rocky Bay.
Similarly, in regional areas improvements have seen:
• installation of synchronised lighting on existing lateral markers at Denham, Wilson Inlet and
Beadon Creek; and
• installation of a 2.5 metre red and white Fairway Buoy at the entrance to Lily Lagoon on the
Ord River.
These improvements cost in excess of $108,000 and were implemented as part of the
Department‟s 2008–09 Navigation Aid Capital Works Plan. This program is an integral part
of the overall commitment to marine safety in Western Australian waters.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3 and 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
33
Marine safety operations
Marine safety compliance activities have been governed since 2003 by a Memorandum of
Understanding between the Minister for Transport and the Minister for Fisheries which
resulted in the Department of Fisheries (DoF) being responsible for this work from Preston
Beach to Lancelin with the exception of the Swan and Canning rivers.
However, in April this year the above arrangements were altered to enable the Department
for Planning and Infrastructure to undertake dedicated in-shore marine safety compliance
work between Preston Beach and Lancelin.
These new arrangements have been implemented to better cater for an increased demand
for dedicated marine compliance operations. Regular compliance patrols are now
undertaken in the Peel, Rockingham and Hillarys regions.
The DoF will continue to undertake compliance checks in the course of fisheries work.
The arrangements have resulted in substantially improved coordination, more efficient use of
resources and have delivered improved safety outcomes.
The Department has also increased on-water compliance capacity through:
• basing an additional vessel in Busselton to cater for the high demand for patrols in
Geographe Bay, the Blackwood and Collie rivers, Koombana Bay and the Leschenault
Estuary; and
• the purchase of a new 8.5 metre high performance rigid inflatable vessel for the Perth
Metropolitan area to provide for improved response times in incidents and emergencies.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3 and 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
Marine safety integrated data collection strategy
The Department has recently developed and implemented a project to establish a defined
and practical Marine Safety Integrated Data Report that is produced on a quarterly basis.
This data is provided and supported by multiple agencies with responsibilities for marine
compliance and sea search and rescue within the State.
This development will ensure marine statistical information is collected and used in a
consistent and uniform way. The integrated data collection strategy will provide the
framework for the dissemination of current marine safety information to assist with:
• investigating the attributing factors to the incidence and burden of marine-related injury in
Western Australia;
• identification of higher risk marine injury and incident groups and to suggest
countermeasures to reduce the incidence and burden of these injuries and incidents in
Western Australia;
• targeting communication and educational programs to meet the needs of the boating
community that advance boating safety;
• better use of resources for risk identification; and
• raising the profile of the topic of marine safety generally.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
34
Seagrass wrack within Geographe Bay
The Department is managing, on behalf of the State Government, the Shire of Busselton and
the developers of Port Geographe, a major study into seagrass wrack within Geographe
Bay.
The study by the University of Western Australia, Edith Cowan University and DHI Water
and Environment Pty Ltd will make recommendations for improved management of seagrass
wrack along the beaches of Geographe Bay, and specifically at Port Geographe, where
extensive problems with seagrass wrack and sand deposits have been experienced since it
was built in 1997.
The study began in January 2008 and the first year has focused on the factors critical to the
movement of seagrass on and off the beaches. Beach accumulations have been studied for
their physical and chemical properties including the release of gases such as hydrogen
sulphide. The next stage is to focus on the sources and movement of seagrass within the
Bay and its accumulation at Port Geographe.
The study will develop a computer model to predict seagrass movement within the ocean
and onto and off the beach. It will be used to model options, including proposed changes to
the Port Geographe entrance groynes to ascertain whether modifications can reduce the
collection of wrack on the beach west of Port Geographe, and allow it to naturally bypass the
marina entrance and groyne field.
The total anticipated expenditure is $750,000 from a tripartite funding agreement between
the Department, the Shire of Busselton and the developers. The study is due for completion
in February 2010.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3 and 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
35
Recreational Skippers Ticket (RST) evaluation in the
Kimberly region
Review of the RST requirements in relation to meeting the policy framework for Substantive
Equality objectives has culminated in the development and distribution of a RST Indigenous
Communities Assessor Resource Kit. The kit was developed in order to assist with
Indigenous learning and to provide support material for the delivery of the RST.
Implementation of a practical and equitable RST training package for remote Indigenous
communities has been included on the Department‟s Reconciliation Action Plan. However,
the effectiveness of the delivery, uptake and promotion of this package has yet to be fully
assessed. This project seeks to assist with the uptake of mandatory requirements,
enhancement of employment opportunities and provision of a safer boating environment for
all communities.
While it is too early to gauge the effectiveness of this package the Department will undertake
a preliminary evaluation of the program. The evaluation process will include:
• assessment of the uptake of the RST within remote Indigenous communities;
• understanding of the number and location of Indigenous boating communities in the
Kimberley;
• identification of any challenges restricting the uptake of the RST in remote areas; and
• possible improvements to promotional and substantive equality opportunities to encourage
a safer Indigenous boating community.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
Marine focus area for the State land information platform
The Department‟s Coastal Infrastructure Business Unit worked closely with the Western
Australian Land Information System (WALIS) Marine Group and Landgate in preparing a
business case for the development of a marine focus area for the State land information
platform.
This project is seeking funding in order to address the management and distribution of
critical data in the marine area, which is currently well below the expectations and needs of
users. The role of marine data is vital in the management and research into coastal
vulnerability, marine ecology, coastal infrastructure, sustainable fisheries and many other
areas where there is significant government involvement.
The estimated cost of this project over 10 years is $6.8 million of which $4 million will be
spent in the first four years.
The business case was given an excellent appraisal by the Office of e-Government, in
consideration of the significant long-term benefits to government and the community. Letters
of support for the business case were received from the Directors General of several
agencies.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
36
Model rail safety legislation
The Department has drafted the Rail Safety Bill (2009) in accordance with the national
model rail safety legislation as agreed at the Australian Transport Council and the Council of
Australian Governments. In drafting the Western Australian Bill, a number of variations were
made to the model legislation to enhance rail safety outcomes, as well as to maintain
consistency with existing legislation and Western Australian specific legislative requirements.
The draft Bill was released in May 2009 for public comment, and it is intended that the
legislation will be introduced into Parliament by December 2009.
The Department‟s Rail Safety Business Unit has contributed to the development of several
national guidelines for rail safety regulation. These will take effect when a new Rail Safety
Act based on a model national Bill is implemented in WA. They will contribute significantly to
achievement of consistent regulation of risks and rail safety by all jurisdictions.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/rail
Resourcing for rail safety compliance
To be able to regulate effectively under a new Rail Safety Act and in the face of significant
increases in rail activity in WA, the Department‟s Rail Safety Business Unit has been granted
approval to expand its staff and to develop new competencies required to regulate under the
new Act. Key staff have been trained by the Victorian rail safety regulator in compliance
management methods for the new Act. Effort has also been directed at developing new
procedures for operation under the new Act.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/rail
Rail safety accreditations
John Holland was granted accreditation in February 2009, bringing the number of rail
transport operators accredited in Western Australia to 26. BHP Billiton Iron Ore has also
publicly announced its intention to move to be accredited under the Rail Safety Act 1998.
Previously the company had been exempted from the Rail Safety Act and has been
regulated under the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994. With additional new rail
operators as well as existing operators being WA-accredited, the consistency across the
industry represents a major breakthrough and allows rail staff who move within the industry
to operate under the same safety standards. This is a very positive outcome in terms of
managing the very significant risks involved.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/rail
37
National data on railway occurrences
The Department has been contributing to national projects designed to deliver consistent
reporting and classification of rail safety accident data. This includes adoption of common
data definitions and publication of some occurrence data on the Australian Transport
Bureau‟s website. Some of the data has been able to be normalised to allow a level of
comparison, but comparisons need to be made with caution as there are significant
differences in rail operating systems and rail environments across jurisdictions and rail
networks in Australia. The published statistics show that, in general, WA railways are
probably performing at better levels of safety than those in other jurisdictions. The rate of
significant accidents in WA has also been falling. This performance is significant given that it
has occurred over a period when both passenger and freight rail activity in WA has more
than doubled, while in most other jurisdictions it has been reducing. Level crossing safety in
WA is one area where our safety performance appears to be much better.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/rail
Road safety
The Department, through its Licensing Business Unit, has a primary focus of ensuring the
State has safe drivers driving safe vehicles on safe roads. To deliver this focus, our
workforce strives continuously to improve the level of customer service and interaction
through the Contact Centre, our metropolitan and regional licensing centres, licensing
agents, vehicle examination centres and authorised inspection stations located throughout
Western Australia. The Department also plays an important role providing information to
assist law enforcement agencies and other authorised agencies.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/licensing
Delivery outcomes for the Licensing Business Unit
The Licensing Business Unit‟s overall performance in key outcome areas during 2008–09
has been solid and a strong indicator of further progress towards its long-term service
delivery goals. Some highlights are:
• the total number of financial transactions has increased by 3.75 per cent with internet
transactions increasing by 42 per cent;
• the number of practical driver assessments has increased by 1.7 per cent to 127,800 in
2008–09;
• the number of vehicle licences issued increased by 7.4 per cent to more than 2.3 million;
• the Licensing Centre at Willagee was refurbished and extended, and the new Osborne
Park Vehicle Examination Centre is due to open in late October 2009; and
• the Department will be introducing B-PAY as a payment option in late 2009, which should
further enhance service delivery.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/licensing
38
Collection of revenue
In 2008–09, the Department‟s Licensing Business Unit collected $1,465,581,227 in revenue
which included:
• Third Party Insurance Surcharge on behalf of the Insurance Commission of Western
Australia;
• Stamp Duty on the licensing and transfer of vehicles contributing to the Consolidated
Fund;
• motor driver‟s licence and vehicle registration fees; and
• fees for the provision of identity cards.
The refinement of this revenue collection role is critical to the ongoing service improvement
programs the Department is progressively implementing.
Improved access to online and interactive voice recognition (IVR) phone payment options
has seen these revenue streams increase to 23 per cent of the revenue collected in 2008–
09, the second largest revenue stream for the Licensing Business Unit. The growth of these
modern, user-friendly and convenient payment options has allowed our Contact Centre and
licensing centres to optimise their interaction with personal customers, leading to improved
levels of customer service.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/licensing
39
Pastoral Lands Board governance review
The Pastoral Lands Board is a statutory-based representative board enacted through the
Land Administration Act 1997 (LAA), which is supported in its activities through the
Department‟s Pastoral Land Business Unit (PLBU). The Board has various powers and
functions under Part 7 of this Act and is dedicated to fulfilling its duties in a lawful and
professional manner with the utmost integrity and objectivity. It actively pursues good
practice governance processes and, in line with this, completed a review of its governance
framework during 2008–09.
The review developed a Board Charter defining the respective roles, responsibilities and
authorities of the Board members, both individually and collectively, in directing and
managing the activities for which the Board is responsible. The Charter is consistent with the
Code of Conduct for Government Boards and Committees (Office of the Public Sector
Standards Commissioner May 1999), the Land Administration Act 1997 and, where
appropriate, relevant sections of the ASX Corporate Governance Principles and
Recommendations (Second Edition August 2007). In conjunction with the review, the
following activities were also completed:
• Board „Policy Committee‟ formed to assist PLBU in development and review of policies
prior to consultation processes.
• A risk analysis and policy hierarchy were developed to guide policy development
activities from limited resources into the medium-term.
• A business process review was completed with over 30 business processes mapped.
Major changes have been identified to streamline processes.
• An audit of business systems to identify shortfalls and improvements required to ensure
capacity to meet stakeholder needs. This audit will see significant development work
undertaken to the primary business system of Oracle Property Manager over 2009–10 to
enhance its capacity to meet business requirements.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/pastoral
40
Review of Western Australian ports
The Department has led a review of the ports of Fremantle, Esperance and Port Hedland, as
representative Western Australian ports, to fulfil an obligation of the Competition and
Infrastructure Reform Agreement signed by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG).
This agreement required a review of the regulation of ports and port authority handling and
storage facility operations at significant ports to ensure consistency with the principles for
economic regulation and competition.
The Department commissioned the Allen Consulting Group to undertake the review. It was
overseen by a steering committee comprising members from the Department for Planning
and Infrastructure, Department of Treasury and Finance, Department of Agriculture and
Food and Fremantle Port Authority.
The review found no grounds for the economic regulation of Western Australian ports, and
concluded that the adequacy of the commercial charter in the Port Authorities Act 1999
makes further regulatory action unwarranted.
The review report was finalised in January 2009 and has been provided to the Government
for endorsement and forwarding to COAG.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
Port Authorities Act review
As required under the Port Authorities Act 1999, the Minister initiated a review of the Act‟s
operation and effectiveness. The Department chaired the steering committee that was
formed to undertake the review, which commenced in January 2006. The other members
were from Fremantle Ports, the Department of Treasury and Finance, the Port Operations
Task Force, the Office of the Minister and the chief executive officers of the ports of
Bunbury, Dampier and Esperance.
The review established that the Act provides a sound and comprehensive framework for the
good governance and administration of port authority ports. Since the introduction of the Act,
the port authorities have generally performed well and have continued to fulfil their primary
role of trade facilitation in an efficient and commercial manner.
The review report was submitted to the Minister for Transport in December 2008. It contains
11 recommendations, essentially to improve clarity, commercial administration and
operations.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
41
The Pilbara infrastructure port access regime
The Railway and Port (The Pilbara Infrastructure Pty Ltd) Agreement Act 2004 (TPI
Agreement) provides for a Ministerial approved port access regime governing third party
access to the TPI and port facilities and infrastructure at the Port Hedland port.
The Department convened, chaired and supported the interagency working group which was
responsible for negotiating the port access regime with TPI.
Negotiations concluded in May 2009 and TPI has submitted a draft regime to the Minister for
State Development for approval.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
North West shipping service
The Government provides a subsidy for a regular shipping service to the north of the State.
This provides an alternative transport service for remote communities and industry, and
reduces the negative impact of heavy vehicles by taking freight off the roads.
The service is provided by a local shipping company under a contract managed by the
Department. The current contract has been in place since late 2005.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
Fremantle port rail containers subsidy
Growing numbers of containers are being carried into Fremantle Ports, and an increase in
rail‟s share of this traffic is needed to reduce road congestion and delays. However, rail
incurs extra costs of $70 per container compared to road. Therefore to encourage rail use,
the Department administers a subsidy for containers transported by rail between
Forrestfield/Kewdale and the Fremantle Inner Harbour. For 2008–09, the rail subsidy budget
was $4.5 million and at 30 June 2009, the level of support was $45 per 20 ft container ($95
per 40 ft container). The rates will be reduced as rail volumes build.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/freight
42
National transport reform agenda
The Department has continued to support the Minister for Transport‟s participation in the
Australian Transport Council (ATC), which is responsible for the coordination and integration
of all transport and road policy issues at a national level. The ATC is supported by the
Standing Committee on Transport (SCOT). Over the last year, these bodies have focused
on:
• Completing work on a National Transport Policy Framework in support of the Council of
Australian Governments‟ (COAG) national reform agenda. The Minister continued to
chair a working group on climate change, environment and energy until May 2009, when
the nine Ministerially-led ATC working groups were restructured into six CEO-led SCOT
Standing Sub-Committees.
• Progressing towards a seamless, coordinated transport system by establishing a National
Road Safety Council and single national systems for heavy vehicle regulation,
registration and licensing, rail safety regulation and investigation, and maritime
regulation. The ATC proposals were considered by COAG at its July 2009 meeting.
The Department also continued to participate in the ongoing nationally driven transport
reform agenda being managed through the National Transport Commission, with key actions
and decisions involving:
• amendments to the National Heavy Vehicle Driver Licensing and Vehicle Registration
Regulations;
• the Australian Road Rules 8th Amendment Package;
• a National Strategy for Rail Safety Data 2008–10;
• the Australian Vehicle Standards Rules 6th Amendment Package 2008;
• a number of driver fatigue management reforms;
• a state submission to the Review of the National Transport Commission;
• the cost-benefit analysis for the national heavy vehicle enforcement strategy; and
• a rail safety standards development policy.
www.transport.wa.gov.au
Regional services
The Regional Services Business Unit comprises 134 staff in seven regions and is the
regional „one-stop shop‟ responsible for managing the delivery of the Department‟s services,
compliance programs and providing advocacy and coordination across the agency in
regional Western Australia.
An aim of the Director General has been to develop a one-stop shop customer service
approach where possible. The Department has one-stop shops in Kalgoorlie, Albany,
Bunbury, Geraldton, Carnarvon, Exmouth, Karratha and Broome which provide or manage
access to the full range of departmental services.
The Department has secured seven additional staff and is securing appropriate equipment.
The primary aim is to raise the level of transport safety and compliance in the regions in line
with the increasing number of tourists, mining activity and regional recreational vessels
(which have increased by 23 per cent in the last five years).
*This activity also relates to Goal 4 and 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/aboutus
43
Working with community groups
The Department has well-established working relationships with the State‟s Indigenous
community and their representatives. In the past year, the Department has successfully
resolved Native Title issues with the Malgana people over Dirk Hartog Island, which in turn
will enable the creation of a national park over the island, along with eco-tourism sites. An in-
principle agreement was also achieved with the Yawuru people in Broome to enable 50
hectares to be leased by the Yawuru community to the Broome Port Authority. This extra
land will enable further expansion of the Broome Port to cater for increased activity resulting
from gas exploration and production in the Browse Basin. The Department also negotiated a
framework agreement with the Baiyungu Aboriginal Corporation (BAC) for the expansion of
developments at Coral Bay. The BAC Framework Agreement will provide workers
accommodation, eco-tourism and supporting infrastructure development to enable the
ongoing enhancement of Coral Bay as a major tourism centre.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
http://lands.rdl.wa.gov.au/stateland/
Intrastate air services review
During 2008, the Department undertook a comprehensive review of Western Australia‟s
intrastate air services at the request of the National Competition Council and the then
Minister for Planning and Infrastructure. The review process was directed by a steering
committee comprising representatives of the State Government, local governments, industry
associations and aviation specialist consultants. The process included extensive stakeholder
engagement.
The resultant report, which was completed in March 2009, provides a comprehensive, up-to-
date profile of the state of regulated air services in Western Australia and identifies options
to facilitate industry growth in the future. The Minister has extended the current Coastal and
Northern Goldfields Network licence arrangements and the Kimberley subsidised air service
contract until 30 June 2010 to provide time for any new model to be determined and
implemented.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/aviation
44
Regional airports development
Since 1997, the Regional Airports Development Scheme (RADS) has contributed more than
$23.1 million towards approximately 223 different projects. The Department manages this
scheme, which aims to ensure that regional aviation infrastructure and airport services are
developed and maintained to support community, business and tourism needs.
The 2008–09 funding round, announced in July 2008, contributed over $2 million to 19
projects in regional Western Australia. Grants included $240,000 to build a new airport at
Eco Beach (Broome), $250,000 to seal the runway at Marble Bar and $39,000 to construct a
parallel taxiway at Manjimup.
In October 2008, the Department completed the RADS-funded upgrade of the Coral Bay
airstrip, at a total cost of $386,000. In 2006, it had been recognised that an upgrade of this
airstrip was a priority, given its deterioration and its strategic importance in the area
(particularly for Royal Flying Doctor and tourism services). It was agreed that the
Department would undertake the upgrade works, as the airstrip land was in the process of
being excised from a pastoral lease and responsibility for the airstrip was to be transferred to
the Department.
An extra $17 million has been allocated to RADS from the Government‟s Royalties for
Regions initiative, for the period 2008–09 to 2011–12. Of this extra funding, a total of $2
million was allocated in 2008–09 to Geraldton to upgrade the terminal security and to
Esperance to strengthen the runway.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/aviation
Freight and Logistics Council of Western Australia
In March 2009, the Minister for Transport established the Freight and Logistics Council of
Western Australia. This council consolidates the State‟s previous modal-based councils,
reflecting the growing nation-wide shift to a focus more aligned with overall supply chain
solutions and door-to-door movements, irrespective of mode.
The new council comprises senior decision makers from industry and government, and is
charged with providing strategic policy advice to the Minister on overarching freight and
logistics issues. It progresses issues through a combination of research, advocacy and
information sharing. Issues already on the council‟s agenda include the State‟s grain rail
network, Fremantle Port planning, international trading terms, national shipping policy, port
administration in Western Australia, protection of freight corridors, single national rail
regulation and freight noise policy.
The Department provides funding, research and administrative support to the Council.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/freight
45
Grain freight network
The Government has established a Strategic Grain Network Committee, under the auspices
of the Freight and Logistics Council, to advise the Minister on the best investment options for
the grain freight network. It will report to the Government in November 2009.
The Department provides executive support for the committee, which comprises relevant
government transport agencies, the grain freight industry and the Commonwealth Minister
for Transport‟s representative.
This committee replaces the Grain Infrastructure Group and will build on the work of this
group in conjunction with the Commonwealth Government.
North West Corridor transport planning
A strategic level assessment of the adequacy of the existing and planned regional transport
network in the North West Corridor was completed in June 2009. The Department undertook
this study in consultation with a range of stakeholders including local governments, Main
Roads WA, the Public Transport Authority and LandCorp. It was undertaken in the context of
the proposals for future developments in the region such as St Andrews, Alkimos–Eglinton,
Neerabup Industrial Area and East Wanneroo. These developments are expected to
generate substantial traffic and will therefore have a significant impact on transport
infrastructure and services requirements in the North West Corridor. The findings of the
study will assist the review of the North West Corridor structure plan that is currently
underway.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/freight
Owner-drivers (Contracts and Disputes) Act
The Owner-Drivers (Contracts and Disputes) Act 2007 was proclaimed on 1 August 2008
with full implementation in 2009. This Act is designed to improve the bargaining position of
freight transport owner-drivers and to provide guidance on best business practice to assist
them to achieve a safe and sustainable rate that allows them to operate more safely.
Some components of the Act, including those dealing with payment provisions, came into
effect in February 2009, following a six-month transition period.
A code of conduct in the form of regulations for the Act, a guideline rates model, and a
model owner-driver contract are being developed by the Department in consultation with the
Road Freight Transport Industry Council. The Act also provides owner-drivers and hirers
with access to a Road Freight Transport Industry Tribunal.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/freight
46
Rail service for South West plantation timber
The Department has been working with the South West plantation timber industry to have
plantation logs transported by rail, rather than road, between North Greenbushes and the
Port of Bunbury. The shift to rail is intended to avoid the social impacts of timber log trucks
travelling on the South West Highway.
In 2008–09, the Department, in conjunction with the industry and railway operators,
determined the infrastructure and operational costs to re-establish a rail freight service for
this purpose. The Government subsequently committed $19.45 million for the substantial
upgrade that was needed. This represents a significant investment in rail infrastructure in the
South West. When operational, it is planned to transport an average of 550,000 tonnes of
logs annually by rail.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/freight
High Street, Fremantle upgrading
A study to consider upgrading options for a portion of High Street in Fremantle to address
freight efficiency, high traffic noise levels and safety concerns, has been largely completed.
The study is being undertaken by the Department with consultants from the ARRB Group
Ltd. It is being overseen by a reference group consisting of representatives from government
agencies, local government, the freight industry and the local community, and has involved
extensive community consultation.
Upgrading of this section of High Street remains a high priority, based on the assumption
that Fremantle Inner Harbour will continue to operate at least at its current throughput for
many years. High Street is the only feasible transport route providing access to Fremantle
Inner Harbour from the east and south, and is an essential link in this part of Perth‟s major
road network.
It is anticipated that a final report will be referred to the Minister towards the end of 2009.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/freight
47
TravelSmart/LivingSmart
The Department‟s Demand Management program (TravelSmart/ LivingSmart) encourages
the community to reduce the environmental and financial costs of car, energy and water use
as well as waste disposal.
During 2008–09, the TravelSmart/LivingSmart service was provided to 10,000 households in
the City of Mandurah and 5000 households in the City of Joondalup. Co-funding was
provided by the Department of Environment and Conservation and the two cities. The
program encouraged people to use the Mandurah and Joondalup rail lines instead of
travelling by car, and to reduce their use of energy, water and waste disposal in their homes.
Since its introduction in 2000, the TravelSmart program has encouraged 450,000 people
across 26 Western Australian communities to make better travel choices. The
TravelSmart/LivingSmart program to date has reduced annual car travel by more than 300
million kilometres, reduced greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 90,000 tonnes,
engaged the community in seven million extra hours of physical activity and saved over $500
in fuel costs for every participating household. The program has continued to achieve the
targets required to secure Commonwealth co-funding under the Greenhouse Gas
Abatement Program.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/travelsmart
www.transport.wa.gov.au/livingsmart
Cycle Instead
The Department continues to promote cycling as an environmentally friendly, healthy,
enjoyable and viable form of transport for short journeys.
During this year‟s Cycle Instead Bikeweek, more than 80 community events were held
throughout Western Australia, as well as several well patronised major events. These
included a Members of Parliament and Mayors‟ Bike Ride, co-hosted by the City of Stirling, a
Cycle to School Day and the annual 30-kilometre Freeway Bike Hike community ride.
The „Cycle Instead in Spring‟ campaign included a six-week Bike to Work Challenge, which
began in September 2008 and engaged 1783 commuter cyclists from 97 workplaces across
the State. Participants travelled a combined total of 505,194 kilometres, saving an estimated
$90,900 in fuel costs.
The establishment of an electronic newsletter has allowed the Department to broadcast its
latest achievements and statistics on cycling in a series of very low-cost mail outs. The
number of subscribers to this service continues to grow rapidly.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/cycling
48
Cycling infrastructure
The Perth Bicycle Network (PBN) comprises a network of cycling routes that provides a
safer cycling environment throughout the Perth Metropolitan area.
In 2008–09, the Government allocated more than $2 million to create shared paths and other
cycling facilities to extend the PBN, with major activities undertaken during the year
including:
• the completion of a one-kilometre principal shared path from the Bayswater train station
to Tonkin Highway; and
• the allocation of local government grants totalling $1 million to metropolitan local
government authorities on a matching dollar-for-dollar basis.
In 2008–09, the Regional Bicycle Network program (formerly Country Pathways Grants
Scheme) allocated $750,000 to local government authorities throughout the regions on a
matching dollar-for-dollar basis to help with the planning, development and promotion of
shared paths and cycling facilities in regional Western Australia.
A review of the PBN commenced in 2007, with funding from the Western Australian Planning
Commission. The review is to produce a comprehensive new strategic plan that reflects the
Government‟s environmental, health and congestion management priorities. In 2008–09, the
Department presented the draft recommendations from the review to the Minister for
Transport, and commenced development of a new PBN plan.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.transport.wa.gov.au
49
Goal 2. State Building – Major Projects
Building strategic infrastructure that will create jobs and underpin Western Australia‟s long-
term economic development.
Providing land for industry
The Department is heavily involved in land-related matters associated with strategic
infrastructure projects throughout Western Australia. A land exchange agreement was
negotiated for the return of land to the State from the Ivanhoe and Carlton Hill pastoral
stations that will be included into the expansion of the Ord Irrigation area in the East
Kimberley. The project will double the size of the Ord irrigation area to about 28,000
hectares and will provide major opportunities for growth and sustainability for the region‟s
economic and social development. It represents an important breakthrough in terms of
preparing for future climate change impacts on particular areas of the nation.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4 and 5.
http://lands.rdl.wa.gov.au/stateland
Providing land to support the needs of Western
Australians and deliver primary tenure for strategic
infrastructure projects
Over the year, the Department has completed more than 6718 separate land transactions
and generated $33.418 million in total revenue from land sales that it administered as well as
$11.448 million in rental from land and sea/ river bed that it leases. The Department‟s State
Land Services Business Unit also transferred land totalling $3,398,705 at either nominal
consideration or at subsidised sale prices in line with Government agreements.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
http://lands.rdl.wa.gov.au/stateland
50
COAG national reform agenda
The Department has continued active involvement in the national reforms being progressed
by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG), to ensure that Western Australia‟s needs
are taken into account and benefits to the State are maximised. The COAG reform agenda‟s
objectives were set to increase the productive capacity of the economy, address the
inflationary pressures that were emerging and deliver a higher quality of service to the
Australian community. Over the past year, key activities with significant impact on Western
Australia involved:
• Infrastructure Working Group: Infrastructure Australia‟s national infrastructure audit and
priorities list, which were used as the basis to subsequently allocate funding for a range
of WA projects, including the Northbridge Link;
• Housing Working Group: provision of $30 million from the Housing Affordability Fund
for electronic development assessment; and
• Business Regulation and Competition Working Group: where a third of the reform
agenda impacts across the functions of the Department, including development
assessment, environmental assessment and approvals, infrastructure access regulation,
maritime safety regulation, national electronic conveyancing, national trade licensing (for
transport occupations), ports reviews and rail safety regulation.
www.transport.wa.gov.au
51
Industrial buffers
On behalf of the Western Australian Planning Commission, the Department undertook a
comprehensive review of the State Planning Policy for industrial buffers. This policy aims to
ensure that appropriate buffer distances exist to separate industrial land uses and essential
infrastructure from sensitive land uses so that land-use conflicts are minimised.
This policy was first gazetted in 1997. Following analysis of the public submissions received
during the review, substantial modifications were made.
The Western Australian Planning Commission approved the release of the draft revised
policy in June 2009 for public comment.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies/
Kimberley gas precinct
In December 2008, the State Government announced James Price Point as the preferred
site for a liquefied natural gas (LNG) precinct in the Kimberley. In response to this
announcement, environmental approvals are being sought from both the State and Federal
Governments. The Department has commenced work on the social impact assessment that
is required as a component of these environmental approvals.
The social impact assessment will identify and assess the anticipated social impacts of the
proposed LNG precinct on Broome and the surrounding region of the West Kimberley. It will
also develop mitigation, management, monitoring and evaluation plans to manage the
identified impacts.
It is expected that the social impact assessment will be completed by November 2009.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3 and 4.
www.dsd.wa.gov.au/KimberleyLNG
Basic raw materials
The Department leads a group comprising State agencies, local government and industry
tasked with investigating a range of issues associated with the provision of basic raw
materials (sand, gravel, limestone, rock) in the Perth Metropolitan, Peel/Mandurah and
South West regions.
An applicants‟ manual was completed and published in February 2009. It provides guidance
on the processes that industry and the State and local governments need to follow when
approval for extractive industry operations is sought.
Mapping of basic raw materials resources has commenced with assistance from the
Department of Mines and Petroleum, and initial maps are expected to be produced by
August 2009. These maps will enable the State and local governments to protect significant
basic raw materials through local planning schemes, and avoid approval of land uses which
would render the raw materials inaccessible.
Development of a basic raw materials strategy and revision of the State Planning Policy on
basic raw materials are underway. These are expected to be completed by the end of 2009.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies/
52
Road and Rail Transport Noise
A State Planning Policy for road and rail transport noise was completed and adopted by the
Western Australian Planning Commission in May 2009. The Department developed the
policy with assistance from the Department of Environment and Conservation and Main
Roads WA. The policy guides land development within the area of influence of rail and major
road corridors and freight handling facilities. It represents a coordinated, whole-of-
government approach and considers land-use planning, freight networks and infrastructure
planning and provision.
The policy sets the framework for the coexistence of transport operations and urban
development, providing predictability for the freight industry and infrastructure planners and
providers, and ensuring long-term certainty for transport infrastructure corridors and facilities
through compatible land-use development. It also provides guidance for developers seeking
to develop land adjacent to existing or planned roads and railways.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies/
Perth airport transport master plan
In July 2008, preparation of a transport master plan for Perth Airport commenced through a
partnership between key portfolio agencies and the Commonwealth Government, with
substantial project funding support from the Commonwealth Government. The master plan is
to guide future investment decisions in road and public transport to and around the airport,
and ensure that the airport‟s role is not compromised by a lack of transport facilities. The
project is being overseen by a Steering Committee chaired by the Department, with
representation from Main Roads WA, the Public Transport Authority and the Australian
Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government.
During 2008–09, traffic modelling and public transport modelling were undertaken and
results analysed. A rail alignment planning and engineering study is expected to be
completed by August 2009. The master plan is due to be completed in mid-2010.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/aviation
Mid West Infrastructure Analysis
The Mid West Infrastructure Analysis was released in November 2008, providing the
Government with recommendations to address the critical infrastructure issues in relation to
transport, water/sewerage, energy, education, social, community health and services along
with land-use planning and housing issues.
The Department prepared the analysis in consultation with local governments and service
providers, and with further input from the Western Australian Planning Commission.
The report provides a snapshot of existing and forecast social and hard infrastructure
requirements, based on an examination of broad projections for the growth in population and
employment, for 20 local government areas in the Mid-West region.
The recommendations relate to specific anticipated infrastructure requirements and identify
the responsible agencies and timeframes for implementation, subject to the availability of
funding.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Publications
53
North West Corridor review
During 2008–09, the Department progressed a review of the structure plan for the North
West Corridor. Draft reports were prepared on spatial planning, economic development,
transport, demography and infrastructure, as part of the structure planning process. The
North West Corridor review work is to be used in the development of an urban growth
management strategy and a structure plan for the North West sub region, as described
under the new draft Perth and Peel Spatial Framework, Directions 2031.
This sub region is a major growth area in the Perth Metropolitan region and the growth
management strategy and sub regional structure plan will ensure that it has an adequate
supply of urban land. They will also provide a contemporary planning framework for urban
growth, development of employment locations and delivery of supporting infrastructure.
The draft urban growth management strategy is scheduled to be released in November 2009
for public comment.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
Pilbara port development
In 2006, the Department completed an investigation into the need for a new greenfield port
site in the Pilbara and identified Ronsard Island, about 80 kilometres west of Port Hedland,
as the most promising location. Subsequent work by the Department and the Port Hedland
Port Authority, completed in March 2009, identified the potential for expansion of capacity,
beyond that previously taken into account, at the Port of Port Hedland just off Finucane
Island. Timing considerations made the Outer Harbour port concept off Finucane Island the
preferred site for most current large iron ore exporters and potential future exporters in the
Pilbara.
The Department and the Port Hedland Port Authority have developed a concept plan for a
multi-user Outer Harbour facility with a capacity of 400 million tonnes per annum and are
continuing to investigate ways in which additional capacity can be found within the Inner
Harbour of Port Hedland Port. Work is currently being undertaken on the preferred operating
and financing structure for the Outer Harbour multi-user facility, and progress is being made
in reserving land required for this future port development.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
www.dpiwa.gov.au/aboutus
Oakajee port and rail infrastructure
The development of a deep water port, associated rail infrastructure and a purpose built
industrial estate at Oakajee has been characterised as the single most important project for
Western Australia‟s economic development over the next 50 years. For the building of the
deep water port, the Department ran a Request for Proposal process and Oakajee Port and
Rail Pty Ltd was selected as the preferred respondent in July 2008.
The Department for Planning and Infrastructure, as the responsible agency, worked closely
with other government agencies, Oakajee Port and Rail Pty Ltd and the community to
progress development of the port. On 1 January 2009, responsibility for the Oakajee project
was transferred to the Department of State Development.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
54
Regional hotspots
In 2008, the Department and the Western Australian Planning Commission, in conjunction
with LandCorp, investigated the land supply and infrastructure requirements of centres in the
Pilbara, Kimberley, Gascoyne and Goldfields–Esperance regions. These centres were
experiencing land and housing supply pressures as a result of growth in the resource and/ or
other industry sectors. A series of 11 Regional Hotspots documents were produced, with
information on land supply and release, development constraints, population, lot creation
activity, resource projects and local and State Government initiatives. This information will
assist with planning, infrastructure and service delivery for the centres. Updates for Karratha,
Port Hedland, Broome and Kununurra are underway.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
Fremantle Ports Kwinana Quay
Significant research over several decades identified Naval Base/Kwinana as the most
suitable location for the development of overflow port facilities to handle trade beyond 2015,
when Fremantle Ports Inner Harbour reaches capacity. The Kwinana Quay proposal,
including the proposed Rowley Road and Anketell Road road and rail freight access
corridors, is now into the statutory approvals stage. This includes assessment under the
Environmental Protection Authority‟s Environmental Review and Management Plan (ERMP)
and the Western Australian Planning Commission‟s assessment of an amendment under the
Metropolitan Region Scheme (MRS).
The Department and Fremantle Ports have jointly managed preparation of the draft scoping
document, the ERMP and plans for amending the MRS, which will be ready to be released
for public comment in September 2009. It is expected that all environmental and planning
approvals will be achieved by late 2010.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/The+planning+system
Hazelmere enterprise area
The Department and the City of Swan are jointly developing a structure plan for the
Hazelmere enterprise area. During 2008–09, an Inception Report and a Planning Context
Report were completed, and preliminary water monitoring, mapping and a sewer feasibility
were undertaken.
The structure plan will ensure sustainable environmental, social and economic development
of the area. It will include resolution of drainage, water, road and rail issues, which will free
up a significant amount of well-situated industrial land for primarily transport and logistics
purposes, with some general industry and transitional uses.
A draft structure plan is expected to be released for public comment in late 2009.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
55
Kwinana/Cockburn intermodal facility
A new intermodal freight terminal is proposed for the Kwinana/Cockburn area and the
Department, in conjunction with the Western Australian Planning Commission, has
undertaken two studies as part of an overall requirement to plan and reserve land for this
facility.
It is envisaged that the new intermodal terminal will form part of a „freight village‟ comprising
the core terminal infrastructure, terminal support areas and an industry park/cluster
development.
A report detailing options for the preferred location of the new intermodal freight terminal was
released for public comment by the Minister for Planning in November 2008. The
Department reviewed the submissions received, and then undertook further consultation with
industry, government and community representatives in June 2009. Following consideration
of the outcomes of this further consultation, a preferred location will be identified.
It is intended that the preferred terminal site will ultimately be included as part of the
structure plan for Latitude 32.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
Industrial land strategy
An Industrial Land Strategy will be completed in July 2009. It represents the culmination of a
comprehensive investigation of past and future trends in the demand and supply of industrial
land in the Perth Metropolitan and Peel regions and identifies potential land to meet the
forecast demand. The overall aims of the strategy are to ensure that there will be an
adequate supply of industrial land to meet future demand in the Perth and Peel regions, and
that there is ongoing strategic planning for industrial land as part of the wider planning
framework for those regions.
The strategy has been developed jointly by the Department for Planning and Infrastructure,
the Department of State Development and LandCorp.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
Fremantle Harbours policy
In recent years, the Department has experienced increasing demand for expansion at
Fremantle and has undertaken a review of land use in the Fremantle Harbours precinct. The
development of the Fremantle Harbours Policy was commenced in 2007, following a
recommendation from the Department to the then Minister for Planning and Infrastructure of
the need to develop an over-arching policy and framework for future development at the
Fremantle Harbours.
A Steering Committee was established and community consultation undertaken on proposed
concept plans. The feedback from the public consultation process was compiled into the
Fremantle Harbours Policy Report on Submissions, which was endorsed by the Steering
Committee.
The new Minister for Transport has endorsed recommendations to continue with the
environmental studies for the Fremantle Harbours and the development of an over-arching
policy document to provide a 30-year vision for the future of Fremantle Harbours.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3 and 5.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
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Perth Coastal Planning Strategy
Preparation of the Perth Coastal Planning Strategy was initiated by the Government in 2003.
The Department has produced a draft strategy identifying 56 precincts along the Perth
Metropolitan coastline. The precincts extend from Two Rocks in the north to Singleton in the
south. The strategy sets the framework for the built form along the Perth coastline and
provides guidelines for ongoing local area planning and coastal management programs.
The draft strategy was released for public comment for four months in December 2008.
Analyses of submissions, and reports and recommendations to the Western Australian
Planning Commission, are expected by December 2009.
The strategy will be reviewed five years after its final adoption, which is expected in May
2010.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Publications
Assessing coastal vulnerability to climate change
The Department has commissioned a LiDAR (light detection and ranging) survey of the near
shore bathymetry adjacent to the Swan coastal plain from Two Rocks to Cape Naturaliste.
Bathymetric and seabed data collected will provide primary information for engineering and
environmental studies, which will assess the vulnerability of the coast to erosion and
inundation that may occur due to sea level rise associated with global warming.
Aerial surveys have been completed, and work is underway to review and compile data for
final presentation. The result will be a high-resolution, three dimensional model of the sea
floor along the coast that can be used in engineering and environmental modelling to predict
the effects of weather and climate change.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+policies
Supply of oceanographic information to port authorities
The Department supplies the State‟s port authorities with vital oceanographic information
that enables the safe and efficient movement of vessels trading in the import and export of
commodities.
Vessels entering and leaving the State‟s ports via restricted depth channels use real-time
tidal and ocean conditions, such as wave and swell heights, to determine if there is a safe
clearance between the sea bed and the hull of the vessel. This real-time information from the
Department‟s tide gauges and wave buoys is vital to the port authorities in their operations.
It is estimated that effective use of real-time oceanographic information adds six per cent to
the total volume (and value) of exports from Western Australia and provides greater
profitability to companies and greater royalties to government.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
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Augusta–Walpole Coastal Strategy
The Augusta–Walpole Coastal Strategy has been prepared to provide a framework for
sustainable land-use planning and management along the coastline between Augusta and
Walpole. The strategy provides guidance on coastal tenure and management, settlement,
tourism, coastal access, infrastructure, subdivision, development, and protection of the
environment and biodiversity. It also provides detailed planning direction for updating
planning schemes and promotes a coordinated approach by the three local governments
responsible for the area.
The Department prepared the Augusta–Walpole Coastal Strategy on behalf of the Western
Australian Planning Commission (WAPC), with substantial community and stakeholder
engagement. The WAPC endorsed the final strategy in February 2009.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+policies
Coastal Catchments Initiative
The Department has completed the water sensitive urban design component of the Swan–
Canning and Vasse–Geographe Coastal Catchments Initiative (CCI) projects. The project
outputs have contributed to the development of a water quality improvement plan for both
estuary systems.
The Department of Water and the Western Australian Local Government Association
partnered with the Department to facilitate the integration of water resource protection and
management into the land-use planning system. The Department recently completed the
final CCI report required under the Department‟s funding agreement and contractual
obligations with the Commonwealth Government Department of the Environment, Water,
Heritage and the Arts. In receiving the final report, the Commonwealth Government noted
the excellent partnerships that have been forged and acknowledged the project‟s outcomes
had been a significant success.
Under the CCI project, the Department finalised the Better Urban Water Management
framework along with Planning Bulletin 92 Urban Water Management, which were
subsequently endorsed and adopted by the Western Australian Planning Commission in
September 2008. Providing guidance on the implementation of State Planning Policy 2.9
Water Resources, the framework ensures appropriate consideration of water management
issues at all stages in the planning system by requiring a suitably detailed water
management report accompany planning applications.
Since finalisation, Better Urban Water Management has been actively implemented through
a suite of initiatives including capacity building programs, development of further guidance
documents and a review of internal and inter-departmental procedures and processes. The
framework received the Innovation Award at the 2008 WA Water Awards.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+policies
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CETO Wave Energy project
The Department has worked with Carnegie Corporation throughout the year to successfully
issue a licence to the Corporation for over 30,147 hectares of the Albany coastline to identify
the most suitable areas to establish the CETO wave energy project. Wave energy
generation offers the potential to revolutionise power and water production globally. CETO
harnesses the enormous renewable energy present in our ocean‟s waves and converts it
into two of the most valuable commodities underpinning the sustainable growth of the planet,
zero-emission electricity and zero-emission desalinated water. The Department‟s State Land
Services Business Unit has developed associated land policy to address the growing need
for State land by renewable energy organisations.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.planning.wa.gov.au
Storm surge model for Bunbury
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been agreed between the Department, the
Western Australian Planning Commission and Geoscience Australia for the preparation of a
storm surge model for Bunbury. The model is due to be completed by June 2010.
Geoscience Australia will develop the model, which will be used to quantify the potential
impacts of different storm surge scenarios under a variety of climate change conditions to
the year 2100. The model will also measure the effectiveness of coastal protection
infrastructure to protect areas of Bunbury from both storm surge and sea level rise.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3 and 4.
www.planning.wa.gov.au
EnviroPlanning
The EnviroPlanning project is a partnership project involving the Department, the Western
Australian Planning Commission and the Western Australian Local Government Association.
EnviroPlanning‟s Local Government Partnership Program encourages innovative projects
that provide case studies/examples of new ways to make land-use planning more
responsive and effective as a tool for assisting natural resource management. In 2008–09,
funding totalling $200,000 was awarded to three new projects through this program:
• a water management strategy for the City of Wanneroo;
• a land-use management plan for the Moresby Range; and
• a strategic environmental planning project for the Dawesville to Binningup area.
EnviroPlanning has also prepared a paper on the integration of natural resource
management and land-use planning. The paper was released in March 2009 for broad
stakeholder consultation, and will be finalised in late 2009.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+policies
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Coastwest grants
The Coastwest program provides opportunities for Western Australians to learn about,
conserve and protect our coast. It is administered by the Department on behalf of the
Western Australian Planning Commission. Annual Coastwest grants provide resources for
partnerships between coastal managers and community organisations to undertake on-
ground projects designed to improve the condition and amenity of the coast.
In 2008–09, grant agreements were put in place and staged funding commenced for
successful projects announced in June 2008. Fifteen grant projects from previous rounds
were completed and acquitted. Revised program guidelines were endorsed by the Coastal
Planning Coordination Council in October 2008.
In June 2009, 26 projects were allocated Coastwest grants totalling around $639,000. The
largest grant will fund the protection of the Leschenault Peninsula Conservation Park and will
see the revegetation and dune stabilisation of a regional park in proximity to a growing urban
population. Other projects include works to protect the fragile dune environment in Torbay
Inlet, near Albany, and a seagrass monitoring program in Roebuck Bay, Broome.
Community and regional organisations have also been supported through Coastwest
Community Support Grants and the Regional Coastal Management Group Support Fund.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3 and 4.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+policies
Gnangara sustainability strategy
A draft inter-agency planning and management strategy has been prepared to guide the
sustainable use of the Gnangara Mound‟s land and water resources. The strategy addresses
the overall planning and management of the multiple land use and biodiversity factors that
affect the water and ecological resources of the Gnangara Mound.
A taskforce and a coordinating committee were formed to guide the preparation of the
strategy and the Department had representatives on both of these.
A number of studies were undertaken to provide the necessary background information to
prepare the strategy. The Department managed Project 7: Investigation into the Regional
Planning Context and Future Land Use Options of the Mound, which has been completed.
The draft Gnangara Sustainability Strategy is scheduled to be released in July 2009 for
public comment. The strategy is expected to be completed by late 2009.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+policies
60
Strategic planning for Greater Bunbury
In response to its sustained growth, the Department has continued to progress planning for
the future of Greater Bunbury, which includes the City of Bunbury and the shires of Harvey,
Dardanup and Capel.
Work has commenced on the review of the Greater Bunbury Structure Plan, which will
provide land for residential and industrial development in the region for the next 20 to 30
years. Studies are underway to identify new urban areas, employment areas, transport links
and servicing requirements. Retention of important agricultural areas, environmental
protection, regional open space and the impacts of climate change are also being
addressed.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3 and 4.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/WAPC+statements
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Planning for the South-West region
The Department is finalising the South-West Framework – a strategic regional planning
document being prepared to guide the future development of the South West region over the
next 15–20 years. The framework addresses the scale and distribution of future population
growth and housing development and identifies strategies for dealing with economic growth,
environmental issues, transport, infrastructure, water resources, agriculture, tourism and the
emerging impacts of climate change.
A draft framework was released in June 2008, inviting public comment until September
2008. Revision of the framework in light of the submissions received is substantially
complete, and the framework and submissions report are to be presented to the Western
Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) in July 2009 for endorsement as the Regional
Strategy for the South West.
Associated with the South-West Framework, a demographic profile was prepared to improve
understanding of the population characteristics and trends for towns and centres in the
South West. The results will be used by the WAPC and local governments in the
development of planning strategies and for the provision of social and community
infrastructure.
Also, a study quantifying the amount and location of building activity in agricultural areas of
the South West was completed in June 2009. The results will assist in identifying the extent
of the fragmentation of farming land.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4
www.planning.wa.gov.au/WAPC+statements
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2015 pastoral lease renewals
All pastoral leases in Western Australia are due to expire on 30 June 2015 although nearly
all will be renewed for their same term in accordance with the provisions of the Land
Administration Act 1997.
As part of the renewal process and after determining future state land requirements through
consultation with state and local government agencies, the then Minister for Lands, in
November 2002, notified all affected pastoral lessees of areas to be excluded from their
future renewed lease. Negotiations on these areas were concluded in December 2004 which
resulted in 95 exclusions from 75 pastoral stations.
Along with implementing these exclusion agreements prior to 2015, renewal of pastoral
leases will also require:
• assessing compensation for pastoral improvements on the exclusions;
• ensuring plans and associated digital data files for the amendment of the Spatial
Cadastral database are adequate; and
• developing the post-2015 lease contract and any revised boundaries.
Due to the level of works required, during 2008–09 a specific project was initiated under the
PRINCE2 Project Management methodology to ensure a planned and documented
approach in coordinating the multiple complex processes that need to occur effectively for
this project to be successful. A project manager has also been appointed to deliver the
issuing of the renewed pastoral leases in 2015.
A Project Control Board has been established, including Landgate as a key stakeholder, and
during 2009 has completed the business case, project brief, risk log, project initiation and
project plan documentation. The project is scheduled to be resourced from July 2009
onwards to commence actions under the approved Project Plan.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
http://lands.rdl.wa.gov.au/pastoral
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Indigenous Pastoral Enterprise Development
An Indigenous Pastoral Enterprise Development (IPED) initiative has been resourced to
generate land-based economic activity and employment on Aboriginal-held pastoral land.
IPED is a collaborative effort between the Pastoral Lands Board and the Office of Aboriginal
Economic Development (now within the Department of Commerce). It works very closely
with the Department of Agriculture and Food‟s Indigenous Management Support Services to
achieve three key outcomes:
• to address tenure issues affecting the development of economic enterprises on Aboriginal
held pastoral leases;
• to strengthen the management and governance of Aboriginal enterprises; and
• broker training and support to ensure the ongoing success of these enterprises.
IPED‟s approach allows Aboriginal people to generate economic activity and employment on
their own land. In addition, it provides local people with the skills necessary to find
employment either on site or elsewhere. IPED uses a two-phased approach to guide its
work, which includes setting matters up correctly in the short-term, and continuing to provide
assistance in the long-term.
Significant issues relating to compliance and land tenure on over 30 pastoral leases have
been addressed through this initiative and the leases are now in a position to deliver benefits
to their owners and local communities.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
http://lands.rdl.wa.gov.au/pastoral
Planning for Aboriginal communities
The Department prepares town plans, known as community layout plans, for Western
Australia‟s large, permanent and remote Aboriginal communities. Beyond community layout
plans, the Department also undertakes strategic planning projects and policy development,
and provides planning advice and assistance to some of the State‟s most remote areas.
A significant strategic planning project completed in 2008–09 was the Fitzroy Futures Town
Plan. It was prepared by the Department on behalf of the Western Australian Planning
Commission (WAPC), the Shire of Derby– West Kimberley and Bunuba Incorporated. The
WAPC endorsed the Town Plan in 2009.
The Fitzroy Futures Town Plan was developed as a sub-regional structure plan under the
State Planning Framework. The Shire is currently preparing a local planning strategy with a
view to a municipality-wide town planning scheme being developed in the future.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+policies
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National eDAIS governance
In September 2008, Western Australia and the Commonwealth signed a Memorandum of
Understanding to provide funding for the establishment and operation of a National eDAIS
Coordination Office (NCO).
The eDAIS (Electronic Development Assessment Interoperability Specification) supports the
requirements of all States and Territories for the electronic processing of planning and
development applications.
The NCO is to provide governance, management and technical support for eDAIS and the
jurisdictions‟ implementation of electronic development assessment.
The Department will host the NCO for the next three years.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.planning.wa.gov.au
Providing land to the community
Through its State Land Services Business Unit, the Department provides land to support
communities within Western Australia. Over the last year, the Department was instrumental
in providing land in Albany for the Albany Waterfront Project. The project will span a number
of stages that will allow development of foreshore land for community and commercial
purposes. The first stage of the project will enable the development of the Albany
Entertainment Centre, with future stages to consist of marina, hotel and commercial precinct
developments.
Land for seniors‟ accommodation in Walpole was also provided to accommodate existing
senior community members who could need more home assistance in their retirement years.
The proposed development would provide up to 14 individual units and a recreational and
administration centre and will allow seniors to have extra assistance while remaining in
familiar surroundings, near family and friends in the community in which they may have
always lived.
Land was also provided to the Agesis Aged Care Group to enable expansion of its facilities
at Innaloo, and expressions of interest were processed to enable key worker
accommodation to be provided in South Hedland and Karratha. The Department also
released broad-hectare sites totalling over 50 hectares for residential developments at
Broome, Karratha, Kulin, Newman, Port Hedland, South Hedland and Tom Price as well as
light industrial land at Karratha.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
http://lands.rdl.wa.gov.au/stateland
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National planning reform agenda
The Department has continued to support the Minister for Planning‟s participation in the
Local Government and Planning Ministers Council (LGPMC), which is responsible for
decision-making on key strategic local government and planning policy matters that can be
addressed at the national level. Over the last year, the LGPMC and its supporting bodies
have focused on:
• development assessment reform;
• planning and zoning law reform to increase retail competition;
• environmental assessment and approval reforms;
• sustainability of cities and major urban centres;
• climate change planning policies and the development of a national framework and
tools for use by local government to inform planning for climate change mitigation and
adaptation;
• affordable housing; and
• the National Broadband Network.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
Planning and Development Regulations
The Department has completed the Planning and Development Regulations 2009, which are
to come into effect on 1 July 2009. This is the first set of consolidated regulations to be
prepared under the Planning and Development Act 2005. It further simplifies the State‟s
planning system, bringing together six sets of regulations that were prepared under the
previous legislation and updating the language and processes. It also introduces new
provisions that support sections of the Planning and Development Act relating to road
access conditions and infringement notices.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
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Building a Better Planning System
In March 2009, the Department, in conjunction with the Western Australian Planning
Commission, issued an industry consultation paper on planning reform, titled Building a
Better Planning System. The paper proposed six priority areas for reform and over 50 priority
actions. The priority areas were:
• simplifying planning approvals;
• more effective planning instruments;
• prioritising major projects;
• integrated coordination of infrastructure and land-use planning;
• a comprehensive regional planning framework; and
• strengthening governance and institutional arrangements.
A total of 110 submissions were received.
In June 2009, the Department established a Planning Reform Industry Reference Group to
consult and provide input on a final reform agenda to be released in early 2009–10. The
reforms are intended to achieve lasting improvements and a planning system that ensures
Western Australia has the strategic capability and flexibility to deal with an environment of
change and uncertainty through well resourced and focused institutional/agency
arrangements and effective planning instruments.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
Monitoring land and housing supply
The Department, on behalf of the Western Australian Planning Commission, administers the
statutory land subdivision process, responding to applications from developers. A report on
lot approval statistics, entitled State Lot Activity, is produced quarterly. In 2008–09, the
development industry applied for the construction of 26,119 residential lots; 22,772 of these
lots were granted conditional approval, and the industry returned to the Department for final
approval on 12,179 constructed lots. At the end of June 2009, the industry had a stock of
73,408 lots with conditional approval to construct.
To provide a more complete picture of the supply of land and housing for policy makers, the
development industry and the community, the Department also produces the quarterly Land
Supply and Housing Activity report. The report brings together housing finance data, median
house and land sale prices, dwelling approvals, dwelling construction, rental vacancy and
median rental costs with subdivision data.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
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Electronic Land Development Process
The Electronic Land Development Process (eLDP) program encompasses the establishment
of an on-line subdivision approvals process from the point of application for preliminary
approval to the point of application for registration of title on newly created lots. It will provide
an interface for developers to lodge applications on line, 24 hours a day, seven days a week,
and link agencies and local government to replace existing inefficient paper-based
processes.
Collaboration with Landgate has led to the formation of a shared governance structure that
will enable both the Department and Landgate to maximise possible efficiencies between the
eLDP and Landgate‟s iLand programs.
During 2008, a revised strategy was developed to underpin the future direction of eLDP,
leading to the preparation of a Request for Tender for a high-level design and solution
options exercise. This exercise will further document the design, define the structure of the
system and determine the best means of implementing eLDP. A contract is expected to be
awarded for this work to commence by the end of 2009.
www.planning.wa.gov.au
Demography services
As the State Demographer, the Department provides advice on demographic trends to the
public sector. In conjunction with the Western Australian Planning Commission, the
Department has begun an update to its population projections by reviewing current best
practice methodology and researching recent and historical trends. The population
projections are used extensively in planning the future delivery of nearly all government
services throughout the State. The private sector also has a keen interest in population
projections, which form an essential element of market research.
It is expected that new population projections for all local government areas will be
completed in 2009–10.
Other activities included:
• demographic advice to peak strategic projects, including the Department‟s Regional
Hotspots publications and Directions 2031 Spatial Framework for Perth and Peel;
• hosting the Australia New Zealand Population Workshop – a national demography forum
concerned with population projection methodology at the state and national levels; and
• publication of the Population Bulletin: 2008 Estimated Resident Population.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
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Perth Employment Survey
The Perth Employment Survey is a cyclical project conducted by the Department
approximately every five years. The survey captures employment, floor space and land-use
data in areas zoned for commercial, industrial, public purposes or recreation/open space.
The latest survey commenced in March 2007 and was completed in June 2009. It covered
the Perth Metropolitan region and the Mandurah and Murray local government areas.
Around 113,000 activities were measured in the survey. Initial estimates indicate that
107,000 people work in locations in the city centre, with another 441,000 in the remainder of
the Perth Metropolitan region and around 18,000 in the Mandurah and Murray local
government areas.
The survey‟s results for the city centre were published in the report The Evolving City: An
atlas of change in the City of Perth 1990–2007. These results show a continuing growth in
the dominance of commercial activity such as office/business and shop/retail uses, as well
as an expansion of residential living in the city. The already small levels of manufacturing in
the city centre have further declined.
The data collected will inform employment forecasting, which is a key factor in land-use and
transport planning.
The Department, jointly with the Department of Housing, has also supported the
reconstituted independent advisory Housing Industry Forecasting Group (HIFG) with the
provision of executive and secretarial support. HIFG has provided the Government with a
report entitled Forecast Dwelling Commencements in WA.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
Stirling City Centre
In November 2008, a structure plan framework for the Stirling City Centre was released for
public comment as a first step in the planning process for a remodelled, people friendly city
centre. This planning is being progressed through the Stirling City Centre Alliance, which
was formed in July 2008. The Alliance is an example of collaborative, whole-of-government
project delivery, combining resources from key agencies including the Department for
Planning and Infrastructure, Western Australian Planning Commission, City of Stirling, Main
Roads WA, Public Transport Authority and LandCorp. Residents, businesses and industry
stakeholders are integral parts of the problem-solving and decision-making processes,
aiming for solutions that meet present and future broad community needs.
Underpinning the planning are the transit oriented development principles of sustainable
mixed-use development centred around an accessible transit station, which encourages
public transport over private and provides diverse employment and housing options.
Precinct planning will commence in July 2009 and a detailed structure plan and
implementation strategy are scheduled for release by December 2009.
*This activity also relates to Goal 5.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/The+planning+system/
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Development contributions for infrastructure
A State Planning Policy has been produced to provide an equitable, standardised system for
planning and charging development contributions for community infrastructure. This
infrastructure includes sporting and recreational facilities, community centres, child care
facilities and libraries.
The policy provides certainty to developers, infrastructure providers and the community
about the charges which apply and how the funds will be spent. Under the policy, local
government planning schemes will set out the system of charging through development
contribution plans.
The Department prepared the policy on behalf of the Western Australian Planning
Commission, in consultation with industry and local government representative groups. It
was approved by the Government in June 2009 and will be gazetted when the
accompanying guidelines, which the Department is drafting, have been finalised. This is
expected to be by October 2009.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
Planning for activity centres
The Department is preparing a new State Planning Policy to provide general planning
guidance and facilitate the coordination of local government planning for activity centres.
This work is being undertaken for the Western Australian Planning Commission, with
assistance and input from local governments and industry stakeholders.
The Activity Centres Policy will support implementation of the overall activity centre network
for the Perth and Peel regions established in Directions 2031.
The new policy is designed to encourage the development of activity centres with greater
diversity, including commercial, residential, mixed business and retail activities, in areas that
are well-located to the public transport system. It replaces the Metropolitan Centres Policy,
which had a greater retail activity focus.
The draft policy has been released for a public comment period closing in August 2009, and
the new policy is expected to be finalised by the end of 2009.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
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Town Planning Regulations and Model Scheme Text review
As part of a series of reforms to improve and streamline the planning process, the
Department has undertaken a review of the Town Planning Regulations 1967 and the Model
Scheme Text.
A discussion paper outlining the results of the review was released in May 2009. It proposes
a new framework of regulations, consisting of:
• local planning scheme regulations which set out the process for making or amending a
scheme and the template to be used (the Model Scheme Text); and
• general scheme provisions regulations which apply to all planning schemes throughout the
State.
A more streamlined version of the Model Scheme Text is proposed, with greater focus on
local content.
The submission period for responses to the discussion paper closes in July 2009. It is
intended that drafting instructions for the new regulations will be completed by August 2009.
The Planning Schemes Manual is also being revised. This manual provides guidance to
local government in the preparation and review of local planning strategies and planning
schemes.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
Housing the Square Kilometre Array (SKA)
The Department‟s State Land Services Business Unit continues to be involved in innovative
and world-class projects with key involvement in the Australian bid to house the Square
Kilometre Array (SKA), a new generation telescope that has a discovery potential 10,000
times greater than modern day instruments. The telescope will give astronomers remarkable
insights into the formation of the early universe, including the emergence of the first stars,
galaxies and other structures. Australia has been short-listed, along with South Africa, to
host this revolutionary global facility, and State Land Services has negotiated land tenure
arrangements which include leasing the site in the remote Mid-West of the State to CSIRO.
71
Residential Design Codes – Multi Unit Housing Code
Residential development in Western Australia is largely regulated through the application of
State Planning Policy 3.1 – Residential Design Codes. The codes are adopted, through
reference, in local town planning schemes.
While the codes have generally been regarded as effective in relation to single and grouped
dwelling development, there have been concerns about their perceived failure to effectively
deliver satisfactory diversity and choice in housing, particularly in relation to the design of
multi unit and mixed-use developments.
Consequently, development of a Multi Unit Housing Code was initiated in August 2008 to
provide incentives for multi unit housing and housing diversity in accordance with form-
based guidelines, improve the standard of design for multi unit housing, and provide
guidance and assistance to regulators and industry in the interpretation and application of
performance-based criteria and the promotion of multi unit housing and mixed-use
developments.
It is intended that the Multi Unit Housing Code will be given effect through an amendment to
State Planning Policy 3.1.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
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Murdoch activity centre
The Department is coordinating the planning for the Murdoch Activity Centre‟s land-use and
infrastructure requirements, to ensure that development is consistent with the principles of
the Murdoch Activity Centre Structure Plan (Part A), which provides for sustainable growth of
the precinct.
Design guidelines and a detailed area plan have been prepared for the main street and
mixed-use precinct linking the Fiona Stanley Hospital to the Murdoch train station. This work
will provide a framework for good accessibility, high quality urban design and private
investment opportunities, supported by efficient infrastructure. A business case for the
construction of a freeway off-ramp link into the mixed-use precinct has also been completed.
The next stage is to undertake planning for the broader area surrounding the Murdoch train
station (Structure Plan Part B), which will consider the long-term planning for the Murdoch
University and other associated areas. This will provide a basis for future development as a
major employment-based activity centre focused on a passenger train station and delivering
best practice in transit oriented development.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
Wanneroo Town Centre
The Department progressed the revision of the Wanneroo Town Centre structure plan, in
partnership with the City of Wanneroo, with the completion of a number of flora, fauna and
vegetation assessment surveys and an infrastructure servicing report for the structure plan
area. The revised structure plan is to provide the foundation for main street, new commercial
opportunities, and the potential development of a choice of housing within walking distance
of the revitalised town centre. The City of Wanneroo will complete the revised plan, which is
expected to be finalised at the end of 2009.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/The+planning+system
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Transit oriented development
Based on transit oriented development (TOD) principles, the Department assists, stimulates
and facilitates the development and revitalisation of rail station centres and surrounding
precincts, aiming to achieve a mixture of land uses that encourages the use of public
transport. This contributes to the Government‟s sustainability objectives.
In 2008–09, the Department‟s TOD-related activities included continuing involvement in
precinct planning studies at Stirling, South Perth, Canning Bridge, Murdoch and Ashfield
stations.
The Department also continued a major demonstration project focusing on the key activity
centres around the railway stations in the Maylands–Guildford activity corridor. This included
preparing an urban design framework for the Maylands activity centre area, and preparing
an urban development program and a district activity and transit planning framework for the
project area. These will be completed in the coming financial year.
The Department is also undertaking a study to measure how well selected precincts
throughout Perth are performing in relation to key indicators of TOD success. The selected
precincts are where TOD initiatives are underway or are likely to be taken, such as Murdoch,
Midland, Canning Bridge, Burswood and Ashfield.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
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Urban Development Program
In 2008, the Department completed a comprehensive review of the Metropolitan
Development Program (MDP) in association with state government planning, environmental
and infrastructure agencies. It examined ways to deliver more strategic and consistent
approaches to the planning of land for development and the coordination of urban
infrastructure.
The Western Australian Planning Commission endorsed the review recommendations, which
included taking a 20-year outlook for land development, increasing the profile of structure
plans in coordinating land for development, and encompassing residential, commercial and
industrial land planning. The review also indicated the need for a stronger focus on infill and
redevelopment in line with strategic planning policies.
In 2009–10, the Urban Development Program will replace the MDP and encompass the
Country Land Development Program and the Industrial Land Development Program. The
Urban Growth Monitor published in June 2009 was the first release of information under the
Urban Development Program.
www.planning.wa.gov.au
Pedestrian access ways
The Department has drafted two new guidelines relating to pedestrian access ways:
Procedure for the Closure of Pedestrian Access Ways and Reducing Crime and Antisocial
Behaviour in Pedestrian Access Ways. These were released for public comment, which
closed in June 2009.
The guidelines respond to community concerns about property damage, anti-social
behaviour, drug abuse and burglaries associated with pedestrian access ways, and the
resultant ongoing requests to local governments for the closure of pedestrian access ways
on security and amenity grounds.
The new guidelines propose a new, simplified procedure for the closure of pedestrian access
ways, and outline approaches for applying „designing out crime‟ techniques to reduce crime
and anti-social behaviour in the access ways.
It is expected that the guidelines will be finalised in August 2009.
Procedure for closure: www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
Reducing crime: www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
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Public Spaces & Public Life Perth 2009
In September 2008, the Department and the City of Perth jointly commissioned urban
designer Jan Gehl to review and update his 1994 study into public spaces and public life in
the Perth central area. The results were published in the report Public Spaces & Public Life
Perth 2009 in May 2009.
The new study found that progress had been made towards the city centre becoming more
attractive and vibrant, through a better pedestrian environment and public transport, but
more needed to be done to achieve its potential. The report‟s recommendations include
development as a mixed-use city, connecting the city to the river and Kings Park, developing
the waterfront, bringing in more residents and students for a diverse and vibrant 24-hour city,
improving the bicycle network and expanding the city centre. The report also provides a
useful comparison with other Australian and overseas cities where similar studies have been
undertaken. It is intended to serve as a reference for government agencies, planning
professionals and others to assist discussion and agreement on directions for Perth city.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.planning.wa.gov.au/Plans+and+policies
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Significant Issues and Trends
Global economic downturn
• The global economic downturn has resulted in a general decline in economic activity
including a slowing in demand for urban residential subdivision and a weakened demand
for commodity resources. Western Australia needs to invest in an efficient and nationally
competitive planning system and processes to support government measures to
stimulate economic activity.
• Under the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) National Reform Agenda,
streamlining and simplification of approval processes is required. Streamlining the
approvals process will provide transparency and consistency in the application of
subdivision conditions and development approval outcomes across varying local
municipalities. There is a requirement for the development of a performance
management system to measure the volume of development approval outcomes and
timeframes achieved to benchmark local government performance.
www.planning.wa.gov.au
Population growth
• Western Australia‟s population growth and recent high levels of net migration are impacting
heavily on the planning for and delivery of government services, with the impact being
felt most significantly in the metropolitan and regional coastal areas of the State.
• The population increase throughout the State has placed an unprecedented demand on
infrastructure, services, developable land and housing stocks. The uncertainty in the
resources sector has caused deferments in investment; however, the Kimberley
population growth rate is expected to outstrip the general State growth rate, while over
the past decade there has been almost a 20 per cent population increase in the south-
west of Western Australia, with some regional urban centres such as Bunbury and Vasse
growing by 30 to 40 per cent.. The Department will continue to support planning for key
new multi-user infrastructure, particularly in the Pilbara, Kimberley and Mid–West
regions.
www.planning.wa.gov.au
Housing affordability
• While the market for land and housing has fallen over the past year, strong population
growth has continued. This, combined with low rental vacancy rates, means demand for
dwellings is likely to increase over the coming years in both the construction and
established markets. This highlights the importance of planning for growth and the
integration of land-use and transport infrastructure, as well as ensuring the capacity to
deal with a high level of demand for statutory approvals.
www.planning.wa.gov.au
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Climate change
• Climate change impacts are now a renewed focus of activity of the new Commonwealth
Government through the Council of Australian Governments (COAG). Coordination and
integration of water management planning in the land-use planning system will continue
to be a high priority.
• There is increasing pressure from local government for the provision of technical advice
on the coastal impacts of climate change, in particular with respect to coastal planning,
development and coastal protection; and the demand for regulatory advice will continue
to grow as the State‟s population expands. For example, significant resources are being
diverted to assist the Shire of Busselton, the Port Geographe Marina developer and
other state government agencies to solve seaweed and sand issues at the entrance to
the Port Geographe Marina.
www.planning.wa.gov.au
Environment
• The bulk of the State‟s natural resources are located in regional areas and industry
requires highly complex infrastructure delivery in natural environments that are often
fragile and sometimes invested with particular significance for Indigenous people.
www.planning.wa.gov.au
Freight transportation
• In freight logistics the emphasis is now on the total demand-supply chain between
producer and consumer rather than the individual linkages. Public and private sectors
need to work cooperatively to develop solutions to freight logistics issues, taking into
account economic, social and environmental considerations.
• The volume of freight to be transported is expected to increase at about 3.5 per cent
per annum resulting in a doubling of freight over the next 20 years. Rail will need to play
an increased role to minimise the impact on the community and existing infrastructure.
The Government needs to play an active role in ensuring the growth and sustainability of
the rail freight network.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/freight
Rail safety
• The existing state-based rail safety legislation is to be replaced with a single National rail
safety regime to improve safety and, importantly, to provide efficiency and industry
harmonisation between track and rolling stock operators that conduct business in more
than one State or Territory, thus providing a more level playing field for rail in comparison
with the road freight industry.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/rail
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Pastoral land management
• Some of the trends and issues relating to the management of pastoral land include:
• a shift to multiple land use;
• the move to purchase pastoral leases for non-pastoral purposes, such as for private
conservation interests and as lifestyle blocks; and
• issues with pastoral leases, such as inappropriate forms of land tenure and non-
compliance with lease conditions.
The Pastoral Lands Board is contributing to Ministerial committees established during 2008–
09 to review issues relating to diversification opportunities on pastoral leases and to
investigate issues affecting pastoral profitability in the southern rangelands.
http://lands.rdl.wa.gov.au/pastoral
Taxi services
• Taxi industry performance remains a challenge, with service falling significantly below the
levels taxi customers are entitled to expect. While Government reforms have seen the
cost structure of the industry reduced to significantly less than in other Australian capital
cities, and resulted in more taxis on the road, the tight labour market is making it difficult
to achieve sufficiently strong service levels. This remains a particular challenge for
services in peak periods, in the outer suburbs and with multi-purpose taxi services for the
disabled.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
Licensing services
• There is a growing national agenda for greater harmonisation of motor driver licensing and
motor vehicle registration across Australia. The management issue is identifying options
that will work for both customers and agencies across Australia.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/licensing
Air services
• The global economic downturn has had an impact on the Western Australian aviation
sector with a fall in passenger numbers and a decrease in profitability. This has led to
some regional communities receiving reduced or cancelled air services and increased air
fare costs. In the worse case scenario, the State Government may be required to
subsidise some intrastate air service routes in order to maintain services to regional
communities. Western Australia‟s intrastate air service policies must achieve a balance
between promoting sustainable competition and ensuring that services to regional and
remote communities are maintained.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/aviation
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Marine services and facilities
• There is growing congestion on our navigable waterways as people pursue maritime-
centred leisure activities in the Perth Metropolitan area as well as in regional centres. A
sustained three to four per cent growth in private vessel registration reflects this trend.
The issue is how to regulate in a way to ensure that interactions between all vessels,
whether recreational or commercial, are managed safely.
• Better information to assist decision-making is now available from geographic data
such as oceanographic, bathymetric, cartographic and geographic information systems;
and the volume of data being collected is increasing rapidly. However, web-based
access and the capture, management and dissemination of this data has not kept pace
with demand or technological advancement; and our existing IS systems and hardware
are inadequate to support our current or future data needs.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine
Regional services
• As the East Kimberley‟s regional shipping hub, the infrastructure at the Port of
Wyndham will require major refurbishments and significant future planning in view of the
likely additional product handling needs arising from the Ord Stage 2 development
project and increased tourism.
• Current and future service needs for the oil and gas industry are being considered
through a possible expansion to Exmouth Boat Harbour, which would provide benefits to
industry and the community.
www.transport.wa.gov.au
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Disclosures and Legal Compliance
Government policy requirements
Corruption prevention
During 2008–09, the Department commenced deployment of a training program for staff
focusing on accountable and ethical decision-making as outlined in Public Sector
Commissioner‟s Circular 2009–03 Training on Accountable and Ethical Decision Making in
the Western Australian Public Sector.
The Department also commenced a review of its Misconduct Management Framework. The
review aims to achieve better alignment with accountability and compliance enablers such
as legislation, government directives and internal policies. As a result of the review, a more
effective process for preventing, identifying and responding to misconduct will be integrated
into business and operational activities.
The Department reviewed its risk management processes during 2008–09, which included
the development of a risk register. Misconduct risks were identified as part of this process
and included on the register with treatment actions. The treatment and monitoring of
misconduct risks will also be integrated into operational business plans.
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Substantive equality
The Department has initiated implementation of the Policy Framework in the following
service areas.
1. Review of Indigenous land applications by the State Land Services (SLS) The Needs
and Impact Assessment found evidence of both positive practices and systemic barriers
that impact on Indigenous people who apply for State lands. During 2008–09, a
resources guide to assist Indigenous people to apply for land was drafted and it is
planned that the draft will be refined and made available to communities and individuals
during 2009–10.
2. Recreational Skippers Ticket (RST) Training Manual and how to deliver RST to
Indigenous Communities in the North West regions by the Marine Safety Business Unit
(MSBU)
The MSBU has completed implementation of the recommendations from the Needs and
Impact Assessment including:
• trials on the theory and practical content were undertaken at One Arm Point and
Broome;
• the RST workbook was reworded in plain language to avoid jargon and technical terms;
• a CD which incorporates a workbook for assessors to aid in teaching and assessment
was developed. This workbook incorporates guidelines and alternative methods of
training which considers cultural differences and learning through conversation; and
• RST assessment practices have been adapted to include verbal assessment.
The MSBU is also undertaking a program to evaluate the uptake of the RST within remote
Indigenous communities throughout the Kimberley region. The primary aims of the program
are to:
• develop an understanding of the number and location of Indigenous boating communities
in the Kimberley;
• identify any challenges restricting the uptake of the RST in remote areas; and
• determine further promotional and substantive equality opportunities to encourage a safer
Indigenous boating community
3. Consulting with the Custodians – An assessment of the Consultation Process for
Aboriginal People on the Metropolitan Region Scheme in WA by the Western Australian
Planning Commission (WAPC).
Significant progress has been made in the implementation of the assessment‟s
recommended region scheme procedural reforms with the support of the WAPC. Pivotal to
progress was establishing a sustainable mechanism for obtaining credible and timely
Aboriginal advice on land and the values attached to it. This has been achieved through a
Memorandum of Understanding between WAPC/the Department and the South West
Aboriginal Land and Sea Council (SWALSC). The agreement has been commenced with
advice regarding the Metropolitan Region Scheme before extending it to region planning
schemes outside the Metropolitan area.
Other achievements include:
• establishing procedures for the early identification of Aboriginal interest in land subject
to region scheme rezoning;
• modifying the manual of procedures to incorporate referrals and other new practices
introduced; and
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• introducing information on Aboriginal heritage and SWALSC advice into region scheme
planning reports.
Since the assessment recommendations which support substantive equality outcomes in
region scheme administration have now been largely completed, it is important to note that
continuing refinements will be made in the future to further improve the process.
4. Review of driver licensing for people from culturally and linguistically diverse
backgrounds (CALD).
5. This review commenced during 2008–09 and will continue as the Department‟s nominated
area of implementation for 2009–10. This review involves examining the licensing services
that the Department provides and whether they are appropriate for people from CALD
backgrounds. Progress to date includes the analysis of the current driver licensing system in
relation to legislative requirements, internal instructions and public information.
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Occupational Safety and Health and Injury Management
Statement of Agency commitment to Occupational Safety
and Health (OSH) and Injury Management (IM)
The Department for Planning and Infrastructure, as an employer and occupier, is committed
to ensuring that its operational activities are carried out by management with full regard for
the health, safety and welfare of employees, contractors and the public. This duty of care
extends to ensuring that designers, manufacturers and suppliers of materials, equipment
and services to the Department for use in its operational activities, do so in compliance with
recognised occupational safety and health standards.
There has been a strong focus on safety performance through the inclusion of occupational
safety and health initiatives in the Director General‟s 2008– 09 performance agreement with
the Minister and the implementation of the following programs during the 2008–09 financial
year.
• Reviewed the Occupational Policy and Procedures Manual; Occupational Safety and
Health Committee‟s terms of reference, and Teleworking Policy.
• Amended the Agency‟s Unacceptable Behaviour Policy to incorporate bullying,
discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment and victimisation.
• Reviewed the use of personal electrical equipment in the workplace.
• Conducted workplace inspections and rectified faults and unsafe work situations.
• Undertook a fire and evacuation audit of all licensing and vehicle operations centres.
Formal mechanism for consultation with employees on
OSH matters
Elected occupational safety and health representatives (OSHR) and committees are the two
main sources by which the consultative process on OSH matters in the workplace is
supported. The basic structure of participation in the Agency is workplace OSHR
representing discrete groups within the Agency. Through their representatives, employees
can participate in decisions concerning OSH in the workplace environment.
The OSH committee facilitates consultation and cooperation between employer and
employees and is responsible for:
• making recommendations and providing assistance in the development of strategies to
ensure the effective management of OSH;
• monitoring and reviewing OSH measures (including inspections);
• assisting in the resolution of OSH issues that arise in the work place;
• obtaining information and consulting with the employer about proposed changes that
may affect OSH;
• identifying training needs for employees/volunteers and supervisors/ managers;
• considering matters referred to it; and
• undertaking other functions assigned to it by legislation or by agency policy.
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Assessment of OSH management systems
The Department regularly schedules audits to assess the effectiveness of OSH Management
Systems.
These audits take into account several factors to determine the level of associated risks to
the organisation‟s operations, the effectiveness of the existing systems, their capability to
achieve established objectives and the consequences to the Agency.
These audits ensure that the management systems are kept up-to-date and are responsive
in meeting changing demands.
Summary of audit findings 2008–09
• Reporting of risk exposures to be timely and effective and be documented in business
plans.
• Improving the effectiveness of the OSH committee.
• Updating OSH policy and procedures to reflect changing work environment and conditions.
• Inclusion of targets against performance indicators.
• Ensuring safety representatives undertake their responsibilities.
Occupational Safety, Health and Injury management
performance
Measure Actual Actual against target
2007–08 2008–09 Target Department result
No of fatalities 0 0 0 0
Lost Time 0.85 0.72 0 or 10% 15.3% reduction
Injury/Disease reduction
Incidence Rate
Lost Time 20.00 5.8 0 or 10% 71.0% reduction
Injury/Disease reduction
Severity Rate
Percent of 100% 100% N/A N/A
injured workers
returned to
work within 28
weeks
Percentage of 5% 15% 50% Refer to footnote
managers
trained in OSH
and IM
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Internal audit reviews
The Department has an in-house internal audit function that provides an independent,
objective assurance and consulting activity designed to add value and improve the
organisation‟s operations and business practices.
The internal audit function includes comprehensive reviews conducted in accordance with
the Department‟s endorsed internal audit charter and audit program. The Department
participated in over 25 reviews during 2008–09. The key reviews included:
• Commercial lease management
• Boat registrations
• OSH Code of Practice
• Information security
• Legislative compliance
• Misconduct framework
• TRELIS user access administration procedures
• Commissions to licensing agents
• Procurement and payment practices and efficiencies
• Prosecutions services
• Training and development
• Water usage compliance
• Various Commonwealth grant acquittals.
Office of the Auditor General audits
External audits specific to the Department:
• Public Sector Performance Report 2009 – Administration of the Metropolitan Region
Scheme by the Department for Planning and Infrastructure – tabled 1 April 2009.
External audits where the Department was part of the sample of agencies selected:
• Improving Resource Project Approvals – tabled 7 October 2008
• Information Systems Audit Report – 8 April 2009
• Coming Ready or Not: Preparing for Large-Scale Emergencies – 20 May 2009.
The recommendations derived from both internal audit and external audit reviews are
managed and monitored by the Department‟s Audit Recommendation Management System.
Progress reporting on the status of implementation of recommendations occurs on a regular
basis to both the Executive Management Committee and the Audit and Risk Management
Committee.
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Audit and Risk Management Committee
The Committee‟s primary objective is to improve the credibility and objectivity of the
Department‟s accountability processes and governance practices. The committee is chaired
by the Director General, and includes a representative from the Office of the Auditor
General. For 2008–09, the committee met on six occasions.
Risk management
During the year, the Department reviewed its Risk Management Policy and Procedures. The
updated Policy and Procedures were endorsed by the Executive Management Committee in
May 2009 and reinforce the Department‟s commitment to the management of existing and
potential risks that may have an adverse impact on the Department‟s ability to meet its
obligations to Government, customers, staff and members of the public. The Risk
Management Procedures have been enhanced to provide staff with practical guidelines on
the risk management process and how it integrates into the planning, delivery, monitoring
and reporting activities of the Department.
The Department also developed a Risk Register during 2008–09. The development of the
Risk Register involved several workshops with Audit and Risk Management Committee
members, relevant operational staff and a representative from RiskCover. A number of
strategic risks were identified and assessed against the Department‟s risk matrix during this
process. Treatment strategies are currently under development for risks assessed as „high‟
or „extreme‟. Monitoring of risks will occur quarterly through the Audit and Risk Management
Committee.
Freedom of Information
The Freedom of Information Act 1992 („the FOI Act‟), which came into effect on 1 November
1993, created a general right of access to documents held by State and local government
agencies.
The FOI Act requires agencies to make available details about the kind of information they
hold and enables persons to ensure that personal information held by government agencies
about them is „accurate, complete, up-to-date and not misleading‟.
Under the FOI Act, agencies are required to publish an annual Information Statement either
as a stand-alone document, or in their Annual Report. We have chosen to incorporate our
Freedom of Information data in our Annual Report.
The object of the Information Statement is to provide a description of the agency‟s
procedures for giving members of the public access to its documents; the kinds of
documents that are usually held by the agency, including documents that may be purchased
from the agency or those that may be obtained free-of-charge. This Information Statement
was prepared and is correct as at June 2009.
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FOI applications
Members of the public may submit formal FOI applications for documents held by the
agency which are not publicly available. A formal application for information must be:
• in writing;
• give enough information to enable the requested documents to be identified;
• give an Australian address to which notices can be sent;
• accompanied by a $30 application fee, unless the information relates to a personal matter,
(which is free-of-charge). An additional charge may apply for the processing of non-
personal information. The fee is reduced by 25 per cent for pensioners and financially
disadvantaged persons; and
• addressed to our Freedom of Information Coordinator.
FOI application forms are available from the Department‟s internet website at
www.dpi.wa.gov.au click on „About Us‟, then „Freedom of Information‟.
The contact details for the Department for Planning and Infrastructure FOI Coordinator is:
Ms Norma Lambert FOI Coordinator Department for Planning and Infrastructure
Albert Facey House 469 Wellington Street PERTH WA 6000
Processing FOI applications
The Department‟s FOI unit is responsible for processing FOI applications for the Western
Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) and the Department for Planning and
Infrastructure.
The FOI Coordinator is the designated decision-maker for both the Department for Planning
and Infrastructure and the WAPC.
The FOI unit is the initial contact point for members of the public, applicants, third parties,
the Office of the Information Commissioner and other public sector agencies for all FOI-
related matters.
Under the FOI Act, the agency is required to respond to FOI applications within 45 days of
receipt, unless an extension of time is granted. The average time to process applications
during 2008–09 was approximately 25 days.
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FOI fees and charges
The rate of fees and charges are set under the FOI Act. Apart from the application fee for
non-personal information, all charges are discretionary. Details of fees and charges are
listed below:
Personal information about No fee
applicant
Application fee (for non- $30.00
personal information)
Charge for time taken dealing $30.00 per hour
with the application
Charge for access time $30.00 per hour
supervised by staff
Charges for photocopying $30.00 per hour for staff time
and 20 cents per copy
Personal access to Information
Where an applicant is granted permission to inspect documents, a time will be set which is
mutually convenient to the applicant and to the agency. Where access to documents is
refused, in part or in full, we will notify the applicant of the reasons.
Rights of review
The FOI Act provides that, should applicants be dissatisfied with a decision of the
Department, there is a process whereby that decision can be reviewed. In accordance with
Section 40 of the FOI Act, internal review applications should be forwarded in writing to the
Department within 30 calendar days of the date of decision.
Following an internal review, matters remaining in dispute can be submitted to the Office of
the Information Commissioner (ICO) for „external review‟. Such applications must be
submitted within 60 days from the date of decision.
No fees or charges apply to internal or external reviews.
FOI statistics for 2008–09 (as at June 2009)
Applications Amount
Total received 250
Internal reviews 10
External reviews 5
Transferred to another agency 19
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Public information
The Department‟s publications and technical reports are available from its library and
through the Library and Information Service of Western Australia. Many are also available
through the Department‟s website at www.dpi.wa.gov.au then click on „Publications‟.
Types of non-public Information held by Department for
Planning and Infrastructure
• operations information
• administrative information
• staff information
• licensing information (driver; vehicle; marine; aircraft)
• contract information
• taxi plate information
• Crown Land administrative information
The WAPC is established under the Planning and Development Act 2005. It has a broad
range of responsibilities, including:
• State planning strategy;
• State planning policies;
• Statutory planning;
• Region schemes;
• Legislation;
• Land supply; and
• Trends in planning.
For the purposes of Freedom of Information, the Department for Planning and Infrastructure
and the Western Australian Planning Commission are considered to be one organisation.
The Department also manages records on behalf of the WAPC. These records include:
• development information;
• land subdivision information;
• strata information; and
• general WAPC information.
Until the WAPC has made a formal decision on land issues, it is Agency policy that
documents related to that issue are not available to the public.
More information, including the Annual Report of the WAPC, can be found on the WAPC
website at www.wapc.wa.gov.au>.
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Department for Planning and Infrastructure website
Information
A wide range of information can be obtained from the Department‟s website, including
organisational structure and functions of the Agency; lists of publications available to the
public; internal manuals used by staff; methods of formulation of policies; office and library
locations; licensing and vehicle examination centre locations, as well as current projects and
policies.
The website address is www.dpi.wa.gov.au
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Advertising
The following statement relates to advertising, direct mail and market research, as required
under section 175 ZE of the Electoral Act 1907.
Advertising $
Advertising Agencies
The Brand Agency 140 876.71
Media Advertising Organisations
Adcorp Australia 299 440.56
Marketforce Express 123 888.13
Media Decisions 357 351.17
Direct Mail
Direct Mail -
Market Research Organisations
AD I.Q. 8 000
Research Solutions 106 530
Social Data 214 142.68
Australia
Disability Access and Inclusion Plan outcomes
In 2009, we completed an extensive review of policies and procedures related to appropriate
workplace behaviour. This included equal employment opportunity complaints procedure,
grievance mechanism, eliminating harassment in the workplace and harassment grievance
mechanisms. The result is a streamlined policy which clearly defines what is unacceptable
and/or unlawful behaviour in the workplace, outlines employee and employer rights and
responsibilities, and provides a process and options for the resolution of employee
grievances. The policy was endorsed by our Executive Management Committee in April
2009.
In conjunction with this policy review, we implemented an initiative to ensure our employees
have an understanding of equal opportunity law, its application, legal implications and the
impact of potentially unlawful behaviour of harassment and bullying.
In this period, 439 of our employees have attended workshops which address the issues of
discrimination, victimisation, harassment and bullying, culture and behaviour and individual
and organisational roles and responsibilities. Of those who participated in these workshops,
238 did so as part of the Department‟s Corporate Induction, which is compulsory for all new
employees. Over the next 12 months, all existing employees will also participate in these
workshops.
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Outcome 1:
People with disabilities have the same opportunities as
other people to access the services of, and any events
organised by the Department..
The Department regularly reviews its contracting processes to ensure they comply with the
requirements of the Disability Services Act 1993. Contract Managers are directed to the
Department‟s Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP) and the Disability Services
Commission‟s Guide to DAIPs for State Government Contract Managers (where the DAIP
clause is applicable) to ensure they are fully aware of their responsibilities. Variations to
contracts pre-dating DAIP requirements were also reviewed to determine if the DAIP clause
is appropriate.
Outcome 2:
People with disabilities have the same opportunities as
other people to access the building and facilities of a
public authority.
The Department continues to ensure that access standards (as stated in the Building Code
of Australia and other design principles) are provided for in new buildings and in
refurbishment of existing departmental offices with a public interface.
The majority of metropolitan licensing centres now provide the following facilities suitable for
people with disabilities:
• automatic self-opening doors at the main entrance;
• ground level entrance access or ramps to enter and exit the buildings;
• accessible parking bays;
• wheelchair accessible toilets; and
• hydraulic desks for centres with high level customer service counters.
The Cartographic section of the Coastal Infrastructure Business Unit (CIBU) has also
commenced developing access and mobility maps for the Department‟s buildings and
facilities. Building „footprints‟ have been developed on the Department‟s systems. Remaining
work requires the compilation of different access information to display on the maps.
93
Outcome 3:
People with disabilities receive the same level of
information from a public authority in a format that will
enable them to access the information as readily as other
people are able to access it.
A review of the Department‟s Publications and Advertising Policy and Corporate Style Guide
was completed in April 2009. As a result of this review, departmental forms were updated to
include information regarding accessibility, and publications are now available on request in
alternative formats such as audio tape, computer disk, large print, Braille and other
languages.
The Department continued to update its eStyle Guide to assist staff in developing
information for publication on the Department‟s website. The eStyle Guide outlines the
barriers to accessible information and provides guidance to ensure information published on
the website is accessible. The Department raises awareness of the Corporate Style Guide
and the eStyle Guide through ongoing education and newsflashes for staff
The Access for All (www.dpi.wa.gov.au/access/1191.asp>) section of the Department‟s
website was updated regularly during the year. Publications on the website have also been
centralised, based on single source information. This has been further enhanced by
including accessibility information on each page that refers to publications:
„This document is available in alternative formats such as audio tape, computer disk, large
print, Braille and other languages.‟
Details of the Telephone Typewriter (TTY) service and the National Relay Service are also
available online where relevant.
94
Outcome 4:
People with disabilities receive the same level and quality
of service from employees of the Department for Planning
and Infrastructure as other people receive from the
employees of the Department.
Corporate induction, which is compulsory for all new employees, has a half-day training
module entitled Appropriate Workplace Behaviour. This session is specifically designed to
ensure that our employees are aware of their responsibilities and obligations in regards to
discrimination and harassment under the Equal Opportunity Act 1984. It provides
participants with an understanding of equal opportunity law, its application, legal implications
and the impact of potentially unlawful behaviour. It includes definitions of discrimination,
victimisation, harassment and bullying, culture and behaviour, individual and organisational
roles and responsibilities, and how to identify options to deal with inappropriate and
potentially unlawful behaviour.
This Appropriate Workplace Behaviour training module has also been made compulsory for
all existing employees with workshops commencing in May 2009. During 2008–09, 245
employees participated in the Appropriate Workplace Behaviours training either at Corporate
Induction or at a stand-alone workshop.
The Diploma in Frontline Management Program, which is an eight-month program running
annually, contains modules on customer service and people management which cover the
topic of equity and diversity and relevant legislation. Currently there are 45 employees
participating in the Frontline Management Program.
During the year, 67 employees attended Leading from the Inside Out. This is a custom-
designed course to enhance management and leadership skills of senior management, and
also covers equal opportunity in employment.
Outcome 5:
People with disabilities have the same opportunities as
other people to make complaints to the Department.
The Department reviewed its complaints management processes during 2008–09. New
Complaints Handling Policy and Procedures were endorsed in May 2009 and staff were
advised of the complaints handling process. Information sessions were also provided to
business units, noting the Department‟s responsibility to assist customers with disabilities or
those with a limited understanding of English. The new processes provide for the central
registration and monitoring of complaints and will assist the Department to assess the
effectiveness of the process.
The Department accepts complaints and feedback in many different formats, including an
online feedback form on the Department‟s website, by mail, facsimile or over the counter.
Contact numbers are provided for customers with special needs or who are more
comfortable with languages other than English.
95
Outcome 6:
People with disabilities have the same opportunities as
other people to attend and participate in public
consultations.
The Department continually refines processes and resources developed to enhance
community engagement for departmental initiatives and to ensure inclusive participation for
all members of the community, including people with disabilities. The community
engagement processes are published on the Department‟s intranet along with resources,
including templates, toolkits and useful links for staff to support them with the engagement
phases of their projects. An education program of continued development and review is in
place to ensure these processes remain current. Ongoing support to staff in the application
of community engagement processes is also provided by the Department‟s Community
Engagement Co-ordinator. Improvements are continual as new resources are sourced and
staff are educated.
96
Statement of Compliance with Public Sector Standards and
Code of Ethics
The Department is committed to ensuring the highest standards of probity and accountability
in all our interactions. As public servants we are ultimately working for the people of Western
Australia, who expect us to act with integrity and to look after their interests. This places us
in a unique position of trust, requiring standards of ethical behaviour that reflect community
expectations.
During this period, we developed and implemented a department-wide training program to
support the Department‟s Misconduct Management Framework and the Premiers‟
requirement that all public sector employees participate in Accountable and Ethical Decision
Making Workshops.
This program captures both new and existing employees through corporate induction and
targeted training. It aims to reinforce ethical principles through awareness and education
initiatives.
Corporate induction is compulsory for all new employees and runs over two days. Since
November 2008 it has included a session on Accountable and Ethical Decision Making.
Based on the Department of the Premier and Cabinet training package, this contains
interactive sessions on real life scenarios faced by our staff in their day-to-day work.
Our Executive Management Committee, along with senior management classified at Level 8
and above, undertook the training in May 2009. A series of workshops are scheduled for the
remainder of 2009 for all other staff. Since its implementation in November 2008, 425 of our
employees have participated in Ethical and Accountable Decision Making Workshops either
at corporate induction or stand-alone workshops.
We continued to review our human resource management policies and procedures to ensure
we meet our legislative and governance responsibilities in regards to managing people.
In 2009, we completed an extensive review of policies and procedures related to appropriate
workplace behaviour. This included equal employment opportunity complaints procedure,
grievance mechanism, eliminating
harassment in the workplace and harassment grievance mechanism. The result is a
streamlined policy which clearly defines what is unacceptable and/or unlawful behaviour in
the workplace, outlines employee and employer rights and responsibilities, and provides a
process and options for the resolution of employee grievances. The policy was endorsed by
our Executive Management Committee in April 2009.
In conjunction with this policy review, we implemented an initiative to ensure our employees
have an understanding of equal opportunity law, its application, legal implications and the
impact of potentially unlawful behaviour of harassment and bullying. In this period, 439 of our
employees have attended workshops which address the issues of discrimination,
victimisation, harassment and bullying, culture and behaviour and individual and
organisational roles and responsibilities.
During the last financial year, we reviewed our performance management system. We
simplified the process and placed specific emphasis on open and honest discussion
between managers and employees regarding not only outcomes, but acceptable and ethical
workplace behaviour. The review has resulted in a 40 per cent increase in the number of
employees having participated in a Performance Development Review discussion. We also
provide detailed progress reports regarding our performance management system in our
quarterly People Management Key Performance Indicators.
97
From 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009, there were three requests for review under the
Recruitment and Selection Standard and one request for review under the Grievance
Standard. All requests were seen through to completion prior to 30 June 2008, and the
Office of Public Sector Standards found one breach of the Grievance Standard in respect of
those requests.
Eric Lumsden PSM
Director General
Department for Planning and Infrastructure
10 September 2009
98
Recordkeeping
Better recordkeeping
The Department is committed to good recordkeeping and to meeting the requirements of the
State Records Act 2000. In 2008–09, the Department achieved its goal of a single
enterprise-wide electronic document and records management system.
The State Records Commission‟s minimum compliance requirements are:
Requirement 1: The efficiency and effectiveness of the
organisation’s recordkeeping systems are evaluated not
less than once every five years.
Following on from work commenced in 2007, the Department completed the migration of all
corporate hardcopy files into the Objective Electronic Document and Records Management
System. The rollout of electronic document management commenced in August 2008 and by
June 2009 all staff had been given the opportunity for training and provided with a workgroup
folder structure for their files and documents. Usage of the system will be monitored and a
process of continuous improvement is in place to improve performance and service.
99
Requirement 2: The organisation conducts a
recordkeeping training program.
An online Recordkeeping Awareness Training (RAT) course has been available to staff since
2005. All staff are currently enrolled and 1798 (86%) have now completed the course.
June June June June June
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Number of staff enrolled in 1360 1455 1686 1972 2087
Records Awareness
Training (RAT)
Number of staff who 560 797 1037 1443 1798
completed Records (41%) (55%) (62%) (73%) (86%)
Awareness Training (RAT)
100
Requirement 3: The efficiency and effectiveness of the
recordkeeping training program is reviewed from time-to-
time.
The online Recordkeeping Awareness Training was made mandatory for all staff in 2008.
Training assessment is integrated into the package and feedback from staff who have
completed the course is reviewed and responded to.
For Department-specific information regarding processes, staff are referred to the Intranet.
Content is reviewed periodically to ensure it reflects current operational and administrative
practices and processes.
A comprehensive training package in the use of the Objective Electronic Document and
Records Management System is available and all staff must attend 3.5 hours of hands-on
training in document management and a 1.5 hour presentation on email management.
Follow-up assistance is through a roaming training and support officer. There is additional
training available in searching and security and quick reference guides available through the
intranet to assist staff.
Requirement 4: The organisation’s induction program
addresses employee roles and responsibilities in regard to
their compliance with the organisation’s recordkeeping
plan.
A presentation on recordkeeping is included in the Department‟s induction program, which
advises employees of their roles and responsibilities in creating, managing and maintaining
government records. All new staff are expected to complete the online Recordkeeping
Awareness Training which covers roles and responsibilities in regard to recordkeeping and
compliance with the Recordkeeping Plan. Additionally, there is a brochure available on
Recordkeeping: Your Responsibilities included in a series of information brochures designed
to assist staff in dealing with different aspects of recordkeeping. New staff are also required
to undertake training in the use of the Objective Electronic Document and Records
Management System.
Information systems
As part of its responsibilities under the State Records Act, the Department has transferred
data held on its three legacy recordkeeping systems to its new Electronic Document and
Records Management System (EDRMS). The EDRMS allows the Agency to deal with digital
as well as paper records within an integrated environment. Rollout of the system to all staff is
near to completion.
101
Reconciliation Action Plan
In September 2008, the Department established a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Working
Group to lead the development and deployment of the Department‟s first RAP.
The RAP Working Group developed the RAP in consultation with staff across all areas of the
Department and identified reconciliation initiatives in line with the key RAP elements:
• relationships;
• respect; and
• opportunities.
The plan includes initiatives that are unique to the Department‟s business and services and
the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who access those services. The RAP also
focuses on increasing employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people in the Department and raising awareness of cultural diversity. The RAP was
approved by Reconciliation Australia in January 2009 and officially launched by the
Department in March 2009.
Governance Disclosures
For 2008–09, other than normal contracts of employment of service, no senior officers, or
firms of which senior officers are members, or entities in which senior officers have
substantial interests, had any interests in existing or proposed contracts with the
Department.
The Department does not hold Director‟s liability insurance.
Ministerial Directives
Treasurer‟s Instruction 903 (12) requires disclosing information on any Ministerial directives
relevant to the setting of desired outcomes or operational objectives, the achievement of
desired outcomes or operational objectives, investment activities, and financing activities.
The Department for Planning and Infrastructure received no Ministerial directives during the
period 2008–09.
Financial disclosures
Pricing policies of services provided
The Department reviews its fees and charges annually to reflect, where legally permissible,
full cost recovery in the provision of its services pursuant to the Department‟s policy for
costing and pricing.
Gazette 75 dated 16 May 2008, Gazette 91 dated 10 June 2008, Gazette 82 dated 30 May
2008, Gazette 89 dated 10 June 2008, Gazette 91 dated 10 June 2008, Gazette 94 dated 17
June 2008, Gazette 103 dated 24 June 2008, Gazette 116 dated 1 July 2008, Gazette 131
dated 31 July 2008, Gazette 154 dated 5 September 2008, Gazette 175 dated 10 October
2008, Gazette 186 dated 31 October 2008, Gazette 202 dated 2 December 2008, and
Gazette 218 dated 17 December 2008, contain variations to the Department‟s fees and
charges for the 2008–09 financial year.
102
Major capital projects
Details of major capital projects (TI 903 Section (13) (ii) (a)
(b))
(Major is considered as projects over $5m)
Projects remaining uncompleted
Project name Expected year Estimated cost Est. total cost
of completion to complete of project
$‟000 $‟000
Hillarys Boat Harbour 2009–10 1,609 6,440
– facility refurbishment
Albany Waterfront 2010–11 10,400 12,400
Perry Lakes 2011–12 62,014 142,167
Redevelopment
Project
Information and Ongoing 66,989 72,330
Communications program
Technology
Infrastructure
Accommodation and Ongoing 7,425 9,504
Refurbishment and program
Sustainability
Initiatives
Licensing Business Ongoing 37,065 45,553
Unit Reform program
103
Employment and industrial relations
Industrial action leave
During 2008–09 no industrial action leave was taken.
Number of employees by award
Number of employees by award
Award No. employees % employees
Engineering Trades 1 0.05%
General Agreement
(ETGA)
Maritime Industry 1 0.05%
Seagoing Award
(MISA)
Public Service 2,055 99.76%
General Agreement
(PSGA)
Salaries and 1 0.05%
Allowances Special
Division of the Public
Service (SASPP)
Statutory Contract 2 0.10%
(STATC)
Total 2,060 100.00%
Staffing policies and recruitment
Supporting and developing our workforce
During the year we continued to implement strategies aimed at continuous improvement for
the benefit of both our workforce and the wider Public Sector and Western Australian
community. We aim to create a healthy performance culture with a workforce of focused,
skilled and motivated people, who are clear about where the organisation is headed and how
they contribute to its strategy.
104
Workplace behaviour and culture
We initiated plans to build and sustain effective workplace relationships in an environment of
constant change, and to contribute to a more positive working environment for all our
employees.
Since Ethical and Accountable Decision Making Workshops began in November 2008, 425
of our employees have participated in either at corporate induction or stand-alone
workshops.
Four hundred and thirty-nine employees have attended workshops addressing
discrimination, victimisation, harassment and bullying, culture and behaviour and individual
and organisational roles and responsibilities.
Corporate induction is compulsory for all new employees. The induction program was
attended by 283 new employees during 2008–09. It aims to give new employees an
understanding of our business, to ensure they are clear about the expected standards of
behaviour, and the obligations of working as a public sector employee.
Scholarship program
The Department‟s Scholarship Program provides financial support for those employees
wishing to undertake further study. The program reinforces the Department as a learning
organisation by valuing formal study; it builds required skills and competencies within the
workforce and is a tool to attract and retain staff for the many challenges ahead. Twenty-
seven employees were successful in their application for a scholarship for the 2009
academic year.
Succession planning
Our formal mentoring program matches experienced senior managers and leaders with
employees seeking to broaden their knowledge and skills and advance their careers. This
program continues to grow in popularity with all our employees. Mentors are trained and they
provide guidance and challenge thinking to develop confidence, skills and abilities. This
year, 70 people are participating in the program.
Developing leadership capability
We continued to implement strategies which contribute towards identifying desired
leadership principles and behaviours, creating a shared vision and engendering a strong
commitment to a consistent approach to leading the organisation.
Forty-five of our employees are currently undertaking either Certificate IV in Frontline
Management or a Diploma of Management. This includes three regional staff participating
online. The program is designed to ensure that staff at lower to mid levels who progress to
supervisory positions have the support and skills to enable them to effectively and efficiently
carry out their roles.
Personal and professional development
The Department‟s formal Performance Development Review process offers the opportunity
for all employees to discuss job performance, the key skills and behaviours that drive
success and future career and development needs. Employees can then access a wide
range of development opportunities, which ensures a skilled and qualified workforce.
105
Employee assistance
CentreCare Corporate provides independent and confidential counselling services to our
employees and their families. Of those attending to date, 81 per cent accessed the service
for personal reasons, and 19 per cent for work-related issues.
Peer support program
Our peer support officers are trained volunteers who provide a confidential service by
listening, providing practical support, and offering information and referral on the availability
of services to their colleagues. These volunteers meet regularly during the year and
undertake a range of training designed to enhance their communication skills. This ensures
a high quality service and continuous improvement.
Youth employment
To address the issues of an ageing population and workforce, this year our graduate
program doubled in size. Currently, we have 37 graduates with a wide range of
qualifications, participating in our formal training and development program.
We commenced a school-based Indigenous traineeship program in conjunction with the
community-based organisation SMYL. This program offers young Indigenous people the
opportunity to work part time over an 18-month period while undertaking study.
Cadetships provide students in their third or fourth year of an urban and regional planning (or
related) degree to work part time and gain practical skills and knowledge while completing
their qualification. We continued to employ young trainees through the Department of the
Premier and Cabinet‟s business traineeship scheme, and gave five young people the
opportunity to gain a qualification in the marine and transport areas.
106
Financial Statements
Auditor General Independent Audit Opinion
To the Parliament of Western Australia
DEPARTMENT FOR PLANNING AND INFRASTRUCTURE
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2009
I have audited the accounts, financial statements, controls and key performance indicators of
the Department for Planning and Infrastructure.
The financial statements comprise the Balance Sheet as at 30 June 2009, and the Income
Statement, Statement of Changes in Equity, Cash Flow Statement, Schedule of Income and
Expenses by Service, Schedule of Assets and Liabilities by Service, and Summary of
Consolidated Account Appropriations and Income Estimates for the year then ended, a
summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory Notes.
The key performance indicators consist of key indicators of effectiveness and efficiency.
Director General’s Responsibility for the Financial
Statements and Key Performance Indicators
The Director General is responsible for keeping proper accounts, and the preparation and
fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with Australian Accounting
Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Treasurer‟s
Instructions, and the key performance indicators. This responsibility includes establishing
and maintaining internal controls relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of the
financial statements and key performance indicators that are free from material
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting
policies; making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances; and
complying with the Financial Management Act 2006 and other relevant written law.
Summary of my Role
As required by the Auditor General Act 2006, my responsibility is to express an opinion on
the financial statements, controls and key performance indicators based on my audit. This
was done by testing selected samples of the audit evidence. I believe that the audit evidence
I have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for my audit opinion. Further
information on my audit approach is provided in my audit practice statement. Refer
www.audit.wa.gov.au/pubs/AuditPracStatement_Feb09.pdf.
An audit does not guarantee that every amount and disclosure in the financial statements
and key performance indicators is error free. The term “reasonable assurance” recognises
that an audit does not examine all evidence and every transaction. However, my audit
procedures should identify errors or omissions significant enough to adversely affect the
decisions of users of the financial statements and key performance indicators.
107
Financial Statements
For the year ended 30 June 2009
108
Audit Opinion
In my opinion,
(i) the financial statements are based on proper accounts and present fairly the financial
position of the Department for Planning and Infrastructure at 30 June 2009 and its financial
performance and cash flows for the year ended on that date. They are in accordance with
Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and
the Treasurer‟s Instructions;
(ii) the controls exercised by the Department provide reasonable assurance that the receipt,
expenditure and investment of money, the acquisition and disposal of property, and the
incurring of liabilities have been in accordance with legislative provisions; and
(iii) the key performance indicators of the Department are relevant and appropriate to help
users assess the Department‟s performance and fairly represent the indicated performance
for the year ended 30 June 2009.
COLIN MURPHY
AUDITOR GENERAL
10 September 2009
109
Certification of Financial Statements
For the year ended 30 June 2009
The accompanying financial statements of the Department for Planning and Infrastructure
have been prepared in compliance with the provisions of the Financial Management Act
2006 from proper accounts and records to present fairly the financial transactions for the
financial year ended 30 June 2009 and the financial position as at 30 June 2009.
At the date of signing we are not aware of any circumstances which would render any
particulars included in the financial statements misleading or inaccurate.
Michael Atkinson Eric Lumsden PSM
Chief Finance Officer Accountable Authority
7 September 2009 8 September 2009
110
Income Statement
For the year ended 30 June 2009
2009 2008
Note $ 000 $ 000
COST OF SERVICES
Expenses
Employee benefits expense 5 145 126 125 576
Supplies and services 6 100 655 97 153
Depreciation and amortisation expense 7 12 076 11 361
Finance costs 8 - 8
Accommodation expenses 9 13 944 9 779
Grants and subsidies expense 10 61 014 63 462
Loss on disposal of non-current assets 15 55 1 150
Other expenses 11 3 886 4 904
Total cost of services 336 756 313 393
Income
Revenue
User charges and fees 12 85 587 84 126
Sales 947 883
Grants and subsidies revenue 13 13 171 4 179
Interest revenue 1 798 1 036
Other revenues 14 50 184 44 938
Total revenue 151 687 135 162
Total income other than income from
State Government 151 687 135 162
NET COST OF SERVICES 185 069 178 231
INCOME FROM STATE GOVERNMENT 16
Service appropriation 194 489 169 624
Assets transferred (7 183) (500)
Resources received free of charge 7 235 6 324
Royalties for regions fund 460 -
Total income from State Government 195 001 175 448
SURPLUS/ (DEFICIT) FOR THE YEAR 9 932 (2 783)
See also the Schedule of Income and Expenses by Services.
The Income Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
111
Balance Sheet
As at 30 June 2009
2009 2008
Note $ 000 $ 000
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents 17 39 633 31 900
Restricted cash and cash equivalents 18 18 723 15 877
Inventories 19 532 517
Receivables 20 5 717 8 693
Other current assets 22 645 1 895
Total Current Assets 65 250 58 882
Non-Current Assets
Restricted cash and cash equivalents 18 1 646 1 147
Amounts receivable for services 21 116 587 101 584
Property, plant, equipment, vehicles and
vessels 23 225 687 204 366
Infrastructure 24 119 811 117 270
Intangible assets 25 17 866 21 102
Construction in progress 26 25 343 17 660
Total Non-Current Assets 506 940 463 129
TOTAL ASSETS 572 190 522 011
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities
Payables 28 9 449 4 727
Provisions 29 23 406 22 836
Other current liabilities 30 5 398 2 735
Total Current Liabilities 38 253 30 298
Non-Current Liabilities
Provisions 29 11 009 8 203
Total Non-Current Liabilities 11 009 8 203
TOTAL LIABILITIES 49 262 38 501
NET ASSETS 522 928 483 510
EQUITY 31
Contributed equity 145 922 141 864
Reserves 159 874 134 445
Accumulated surplus 217 132 207 201
Total Equity 522 928 483 510
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 572 190 522 011
See also the Schedule of Assets and Liabilities by Services.
The Balance Sheet should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
112
Statement of Changes in Equity
For the year ended 30 June 2009
2009 2008
Note $ 000 $ 000
Balance of equity at the start of the year 483 509 431 195
CONTRIBUTED EQUITY 31
Balance at the start of the year 141 864 119 726
Capital contribution 4 643 33 658
Distributions to owners (585) (11 520)
Balance at the end of the year 145 922 141 864
RESERVES
Asset Revaluation Reserve 31
Balance at the start of the year 134 445 99 970
Gains from asset revaluation 25 429 34 475
Balance at the end of the year 159 874 134 445
ACCUMULATED SURPLUS 31
Balance at the start of the year 207 200 211 499
Change in accounting policy (b) - (925)
Increase in provision for doubtful debts - (591)
Restated balance at the start of the year 207 200 209 983
(Deficit) / Surplus for the year 9 932 (2 783)
Balance at the end of the year 217 132 207 200
Balance of equity at the end of year 522 928 483 509
Total income and expense for the year (a) 35 361 31 692
(a) The aggregate net amount attributable to each category of
equity is: surplus $9,932,000 plus gains from asset
revaluation $25,429,000. (2008: deficit $2,783,000 plus
gains from asset revaluation $34,475,000).
(b) The change in accounting policy relates to the increase in
capitalisation threshold of non-current assets, which the
Department adopted from 1 July 2008 000 (refer to note 4
Disclosure of changes in accounting policy and estimates).
The Statement of Changes in Equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying
notes
113
Cash Flow Statement
For the year ended 30 June 2009
2009 2008
Note $ 000 $ 000
CASH FLOWS FROM STATE GOVERNMENT
Service appropriations 179 486 155 225
Capital contributions 4 643 33 658
Royalties for regions 460 -
Net cash provided by State Government 184 589 188 883
Utilised as follows:
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING
ACTIVITIES
Payments
(142 ( 121
Employee benefits 885) 419)
Supplies and services (72 011) ( 71 565)
Finance costs - ( 184)
Accommodation (12 254) ( 11 964)
Grants and subsidies (60 181) ( 62 410)
GST payments on purchases (16 760) ( 17 795)
GST payments to taxation authority (709) ( 738)
Other payments (16 710) ( 19 922)
Receipts
Sale of goods and services 952 776
User charges and fees 95 356 90 229
Grants and subsidies 12 948 3 879
Interest received 1 746 886
GST receipts on sales 12 110 11 079
GST receipts from taxation authority 7 415 4 905
Other receipts 40 416 36 270
(150 ( 157
Net cash used in operating activities 32(b) 567) 973)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING
ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from sale of non-current physical assets 42 85
Purchase of non-current physical assets (22 986) ( 19 922)
Net cash used in investing activities (22 944) ( 19 837)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING
ACTIVITIES
Repayment of borrowings - (12 455)
Net cash used in financing activities - (12 455)
Net (decrease) / increase in cash held 11 078 (1 382)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the
year 48 924 50 306
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT THE
END OF THE YEAR 32(a) 60 002 48 924
The Cash Flow Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes
114
Schedule of Income and Expenses by Service
For the year ended 30 June 2009
Motor vehicle Land accessibility Integrated land
Transport system registration and planning tenure and transport
planning and driver licensing and policy policy
regulation services development development Total
2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
COST OF SERVICES
Expenses
Employee expenses 21 679 17 223 63 340 53 356 35 929 31 382 24 178 23 615 145 126 125 576
Supplies and services 27 566 30 473 45 376 38 981 15 048 14 901 12 665 12 798 100 655 97 153
Depreciation and amortisation expense 6 240 5 895 4 926 4 538 452 468 458 460 12 076 11 361
Finance costs - - - 3 - - - 5 - 8
Accommodation expenses 2 569 1 697 6 461 4 588 3 003 2 062 1 911 1 432 13 944 9 779
Grants and subsidies 52 788 49 317 747 715 3 214 655 4 265 12 775 61 014 63 462
Loss on disposal of non-current assets 422 1 085 (170) 53 (143) 3 (54) 9 55 1 150
Other expenses from ordinary activities 972 1 781 1 166 1 230 1 246 1 015 502 878 3 886 4 904
Total cost of services 112 236 107 471 121 846 103 464 58 749 50 486 43 925 51 972 336 756 313 393
Income
User charges and fees 31 133 32 880 43 948 41 428 279 333 10 227 9 485 85 587 84 126
Sales 947 883 - - - - - - 947 883
Grants and subsidies 5 394 1 019 1 422 - 606 781 5 749 2 379 13 171 4 179
Interest revenues 1 798 1 036 - - - - - - 1 798 1 036
Other revenues (4 786) 21 239 20 893 10 312 33 729 13 179 348 208 50 184 44 938
Total income other than income
from State Government 34 486 57 057 66 263 51 740 34 614 14 293 16 324 12 072 151 687 135 162
NET COST OF SERVICES 77 750 50 414 55 583 51 724 24 135 36 193 27 601 39 900 185 069 178 231
115
Schedule of Income and Expenses by Service
For the year ended 30 June 2009 (continued)
Motor vehicle Land accessibility Integrated land
Transport system registration and planning tenure and transport
planning and driver licensing and policy policy
regulation services development development Total
2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
INCOME FROM STATE
GOVERNMENT
169
Service appropriations 63 636 61 004 65 545 50 664 32 435 29 894 32 873 28 062 194 489 624
Assets transferred - - - - (7 188) ( 500) 5 - (7 183) ( 500)
Resources received free of charge 52 238 561 1 294 5 390 4 567 1 232 225 7 235 6 324
Royalties for Region - - - - - - 460 - 460 -
Total revenues from State 175
Government 63 688 61 242 66 106 51 958 30 637 33 961 34 570 28 287 195 001 448
(DEFICIT) / SURPLUS FOR THE (2 ( 11 (2
YEAR (14 062) 10 828 10 523 234 6 502 232) 6 969 613) 9 932 783)
The Schedule of Income and Expenses by Service should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
116
Schedule of Assets and Liabilities by Service
For the year ended 30 June 2009
Motor vehicle Land accessibility Integrated land
Transport system registration and planning tenure and transport
planning and driver licensing and policy policy General – Not
regulation services development development Attributed Total
2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents 10 260 16 764 9100 6 443 8 065 2 619 2 767 471 9 441 5 603 39 633 31 900
Restricted cash and cash
equivalents 18 723 15 877 - - - - - - - - 18 723 15 877
Inventories 56 56 476 461 - - - - - - 532 517
Receivables - - 1 339 1 014 433 373 - - 3 945 7 306 5 717 8 693
Other current assets - - - - - - - - 645 1 895 645 1 895
Total Current Assets 29 039 32 697 10 915 7 918 8 498 2 992 2 767 471 14 031 14 804 65 250 58 882
Non-Current Assets
Restricted cash and cash
equivalents 199 139 589 411 336 234 221 154 301 209 1 646 1 147
116 101
Amounts receivable for services 41 370 34 472 29 756 25 242 3 747 2 949 5 027 4 050 36 687 34 871 587 584
Property, plant, equipment, 130 119 225 204
vehicles and vessels 95 556 85 356 - - - - - - 131 010 687 366
119 117 119 117
Infrastructure 811 270 - - - - - - - - 811 270
Intangible assets 19 27 17 698 20 929 104 77 - - 45 69 17 866 21 102
Construction in progress 11 087 7 647 4 974 1 424 244 169 1 970 1 821 7 068 6 599 25 343 17 660
268 244 174 160 506 463
Total Non-Current Assets 042 911 53 017 48 006 4 431 3 429 221 154 232 758 940 129
297 277 188 175 572 522
TOTAL ASSETS 081 608 63 932 55 924 12 929 6 421 9 985 6 496 263 562 190 011
117
Schedule of Assets and Liabilities by Service
For the year ended 30 June 2009 (continued)
Motor vehicle Land accessibility Integrated land
Transport system registration and planning tenure and transport
planning and driver licensing and policy policy General – Not
regulation services development development Attributed Total
2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities
Payables 289 443 1 469 905 201 467 650 1 097 6 840 1 815 9 449 4 727
Provisions 1 579 1 668 2 623 2 929 1 721 1 707 4 172 4 142 13 311 12 390 23 406 22 836
Other current liabilities 3 894 1 125 - 1 028 375 17 - - 1 129 565 5 398 2 735
Total Current Liabilities 5 762 3 236 4 092 4 862 2 297 2 191 4 822 5 239 21 280 14 770 38 253 30 298
Non-Current Liabilities
Provisions 2 443 2 035 5 973 4 827 2 599 2 231 5 953 5 102 (5 959) (5 992) 11 009 8 203
Total Non-Current Liabilities 2 443 2 035 5 973 4 827 2 599 2 231 5 953 5 102 (5 959) (5 992) 11 009 8 203
TOTAL LIABILITIES 8 205 5 271 10 065 9 689 4 896 4 422 10 775 10 341 15 321 8 778 49 262 38 501
288 272 172 166 522 483
NET ASSETS 876 337 53 867 46 235 8 033 1 999 (790) (3 845) 942 784 928 510
The Schedule of Assets and Liabilities by Service should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
Certain assets and liabilities have been excluded as they cannot be allocated to a particular service.
118
Summary of Consolidated Account Appropriations and Income
Estimates
For the year ended 30 June 2009
2009 2008 2009 2008
Estimate Actual Variance Actual Actual Variance
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
DELIVERY OF SERVICES
Item 80 Net amount appropriated to
deliver services 188 615 194 091 5 476 194 091 169 036 25 055
Amount authorised by other statutes:
- Salaries and Allowances Act 1975 423 398 (25) 398 588 (190)
Total appropriations provided
to deliver services 189 038 194 489 5 451 194 489 169 624 24 865
CAPITAL
Item 157 Capital contribution 28 826 4 643 (24 183) 4 643 33 658 (29 015)
Total capital contribution 28 826 4 643 (24 183) 4 643 33 658 (29 015)
ADMINISTERED
TRANSACTIONS
Amount provided for administered
grants, subsidies and other transfer
payments
Item 80 Western Australian Coastal
Shipping Commission 437 437 - 437 400 37
Total administered transactions 437 437 - 437 400 37
GRAND TOTAL 218 301 199 569 (18 732) 199 569 203 682 ( 4 113)
Details of expenses by services
Transport system planning and
regulation 102 471 112 236 9 765 112 236 107 471 4 765
Motor vehicle registration and driver
licensing services 126 521 121 846 (4 675) 121 846 103 464 18 382
Land accessibility planning tenure
and policy development 55 969 58 749 2 780 58 749 50 486 8 263
Integrated land and transport policy
development 54 274 43 924 (10 349) 43 925 51 972 (8 047)
Total cost of services 339 235 336 756 ( 2 479) 336 756 313 393 23 363
Less: Total income 146 594 151 687 5 093 151 687 135 162 16 525
Net cost of services 192 641 185 069 (7 572) 185 067 178 231 6 838
Adjustments (i) (3 603) 9 420 13 023 9 420 ( 8 607) 18 027
Total appropriations provided
to deliver services 189 038 194 489 5 451 194 489 169 624 24 865
Capital expenditure
Purchase of non-current physical
assets 37 898 22 986 (14 912) 22 986 19 922 3 064
Delivery of services 3 000 1 511 (1 489) 1 511 9 568 (8 057)
Repayment of borrowings - - - - 12 455 (12 455)
Adjustments for other funding
sources (12 072) (19 854) (7 782) (19 854) ( 8 287) (11 567)
119
Capital contribution
(appropriation) 28 826 4 643 (24 183) 4 643 33 658 (29 015)
DETAILS OF INCOME
ESTIMATES
Revenues disclosed as Administered 1 473 1 473 1 455
Income 606 889 449 886 560 449 547 (17 902)
(i) Adjustments comprise movements in cash balances and other accrual items such as receivables,
payables and superannuation.
Note 37 Explanatory statement provides details of any significant variations between estimates and actual
results for 2009 and between the actual results for 2008 and 2009.
120
Notes to the financial statements
For the year ended 30 June 2009
1 Departmental mission and funding
The Department‟s mission is to lead in creative and sustainable solutions for land, transport and
infrastructure planning and delivery, for the benefit of the community.
The Department is mainly funded by Parliamentary appropriations but is also able to retain some monies
collected through its operations. The financial statements encompass all funds through which the
Department controls resources to carry on its functions.
2 Australian Equivalents to International Financial Reporting
Standards
General
The Department‟s financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2009 have been prepared in
accordance with Australian equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (AIFRS), which
comprise a Framework for the Preparation and Presentation of Financial Statements (the Framework)
and Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations).
In preparing these financial statements the Department has adopted, where relevant to its operations,
new and revised Standards and Interpretations from their operative dates as issued by the AASB and
formerly the Urgent Issues Group (UIG).
Early adoption of standards
The Department cannot early adopt an Australian Accounting Standard or Australian Accounting
Interpretation unless specifically permitted by Treasurer‟s Instruction 1101 Application of Australian
Accounting Standards and Other Pronouncements. No Standards and Interpretations that have been
issued or amended but are not yet effective have been early adopted by the Department for the annual
reporting period ended 30 June 2009.
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3. Summary of significant accounting policies
(a) General statement
The financial statements constitute a general purpose financial report, which has been prepared in
accordance with the Australian Accounting Standards, the Framework, Statements of Accounting
Concepts and other authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board as
applied by the Treasurer‟s Instructions. Several of these are modified by the Treasurer‟s Instructions to
vary application, disclosure, format and wording.
The Financial Management Act and the Treasurer‟s Instructions are legislative provisions governing the
preparation of financial statements and take precedence over the Accounting Standards, the Framework,
Statements of Accounting Concepts and other authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting
Standards Board.
Where modification is required and has a material or significant financial effect upon the reported results,
details of that modification and the resulting financial effect, are disclosed in the notes to the financial
statements.
(b) Basis of preparation
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting Standard AAS 29 Financial
Reporting by Government Departments on the accrual basis of accounting using the historical cost
convention, modified by the revaluation of land and buildings which have been measured at fair value.
The accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the financial statements have been consistently
applied throughout all periods presented unless otherwise stated.
The financial statements are presented in Australian dollars and all values are rounded to the nearest
thousand dollars ($ 000). In the process of reporting the Department as a single entity, all intra entity
transactions and balances have been eliminated.
(c) Reporting entity
The reporting entity comprises the Department. The Department administers assets, liabilities, income
and expenses on behalf of Government which are not controlled by, nor integral to the functions of the
Department. These administered balances and transactions are not recognised in the principal financial
statements of the Department but schedules are prepared using the same basis as the financial
statements and are presented at note 45 Administered expenses and income and note 46 Administered
assets and liabilities.
(d) Contributed equity
AASB Interpretation 1038 Contributions by Owners Made to Wholly- Owned Public Sector Entities
requires transfers, other than as a result of a restructure of administrative arrangements, in the nature of
equity contributions to be designated by the Government (the owner) as contributions by owners (at the
time of, or prior to transfer) before such transfers can be recognised as equity contributions. Capital
contributions (appropriations) have been designated as contributions by owners by Treasurer‟s instruction
(TI) 955 Contributions by Owners made to Wholly Owned Public Sector Entities and have been credited
directly to Contributed Equity.
Transfer of net assets to/from other agencies, other than as a result of a restructure of administrative
arrangements, are designated as contributions by owners where the transfers are non-discretionary and
non-reciprocal. See note 31 Equity.
(e) Income
Revenue recognition
Revenue is measured at the fair value of consideration received or receivable. Revenue is recognised for
the major business activities as follows:
Sale of goods
Revenue is recognised from the sale of goods and disposal of other assets when the significant risks and
rewards of ownership control transfer to the purchaser and can be measured reliably.
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Rendering of services
Revenue is recognised upon delivery of the service to the client or by reference to the stage of completion
of the transaction.
Revenues are received in the forms of various registration, examination and licence fees (including Stamp
Duty and Third Party Motor Vehicle Insurance). These revenues are received for services provided
including undertaking inspections and/or issuing licences associated with the fees. As no part of these
charges is refundable, revenues are recognised at the time they are received.
Revenues collected from traffic and cannabis infringements are administered on behalf of the Western
Australian Police and are recognised when the cash is received.
Revenues from the lease of land and rental of buildings are recognised as per the terms of the lease
agreement.
The revenue from other operating activities including rendering of services and the sale of assets are
recognised when the Department has passed control of the goods or other assets or delivery of the
service to the customer. Recoups of operating activities are recognised when invoiced.
Interest
Revenue is recognised as the interest accrues.
Service appropriations
Service appropriations are recognised as revenues in the period in which the Department gains control of
the appropriated funds. The Department gains control of appropriated funds at the time those funds are
deposited into the Department‟s bank account or credited to the holding account held at Treasury. See
note 17 Income from State Government for further detail.
Net appropriation determination
The Treasurer may make a determination providing for prescribed receipts to be retained for services
under the control of the Department. In accordance with the determination specified in the 2008-09
Budget Statements, the Department retained $135.2 million in 2009 ($115.3 million in 2008) from the
following:
Boat registration fees, GST input credits, GST receipts on sales, Indian Ocean Territories Program, jetty
licences, marine examinations, duplicate motor drivers licence fees, motor vehicle transfer fees, motor
vehicle plate fees, proof of age card, recoup for services provided, temporary permits, recoups for
services provided to the Western Australian Planning Commission, proceeds from rental properties,
pastoral leases and other revenue.
Grants, donations, gifts and other non-reciprocal contributions
Revenue is recognised at fair value when the Department obtains control over the assets comprising the
contributions which is usually when cash is received.
Other non-reciprocal contributions that are not contributions by owners are recognised at their fair value.
Contributions of services are only recognised when a fair value can be reliably determined and the
services would be purchased if not donated.
Where contributions recognised as revenues during the reporting period were obtained on the condition
that they be expended in a particular manner or used over a particular period, and those conditions were
undischarged as at the balance sheet date, the nature of, and amounts pertaining to, those undischarged
conditions are disclosed in the notes.
Gains
Gains may be realised or unrealised and are usually recognised on a net basis. These include gains
arising on the disposal of non-current assets and some revaluations of non-current assets.
123
(f) Special and other leases revenue (administered)
Under Sections 116 and 117 of the Land Act 1933 and Section 79 of the Land Administration Act 1997,
rents from special and other leases, are received in advance. The lessee often has the opportunity to
purchase this land at fair value, as valued by the Valuer General. The prospective purchaser can
purchase by instalments subject to Ministerial approval, but must continue to pay rent under the special
lease Section 117AA of the Land Act 1933, and Section 80 of the Land Administration Act 1997.
(g) Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs are expensed when incurred.
(h) Property, plant and equipment and infrastructure
Capitalisation/Expensing of assets
Items of property, plant and equipment and infrastructure costing $5,000 or more are recognised as
assets and the cost of utilising assets is expensed (depreciated) over their useful lives. Items of property,
plant and equipment and infrastructure costing less than $5,000 are immediately expensed direct to the
Income Statement (other than where they form part of a group of similar items which are significant in
total). From 1 July 2009 the Department adopted the mandatory increased capitalisation threshold of
$5,000 (refer to note 4 Disclosure of changes in accounting policy and estimates).
Initial recognition and measurement
All items of property, plant and equipment and infrastructure are initially recognised at cost.
For items of property, plant and equipment and infrastructure acquired at no cost or for nominal
consideration, the cost is their fair value at the date of acquisition.
Subsequent measurement
After recognition as an asset, the Department uses the revaluation model for the measurement of all land
and buildings, and the cost model for all other property, plant, equipment and infrastructure. Land and
buildings are carried at fair value less accumulated depreciation on buildings and accumulated
impairment losses. All other items of property, plant, equipment and infrastructure are carried at historical
cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses.
Where market-based evidence is available, the fair value of land and buildings is determined on the basis
of current market buying values determined by reference to recent market transactions.
When market-based evidence is not available, the fair value of land and buildings is determined on the
basis of existing use. This normally applies where buildings are specialised or where land use is
restricted. Fair value for existing use assets is determined by reference to the cost of replacing the
remaining future economic benefits embodied in the asset, i.e. the depreciated replacement cost. Where
the fair value of buildings is dependent on using the depreciated replacement cost, the gross carrying
amount and the accumulated depreciation are restated proportionately.
Independent valuations of land and buildings are provided annually by the Western Australian Land
Information Authority (Valuation Services) and recognised with sufficient regularity to ensure that the
carrying amount does not differ materially from the asset‟s fair value at the balance sheet date.
The most significant assumptions in estimating fair value are made in assessing whether to apply the
existing use basis to assets and in determining estimated useful life. Professional judgement by the valuer
is required where the evidence does not provide a clear distinction between market type assets and
existing use assets.
Refer to note 23 Property, plant, equipment, vehicles and vessels for further information on revaluations.
Derecognition
Upon disposal or derecognition of an item of property, plant and equipment, any revaluation reserve
relating to that asset is retained in the asset revaluation reserve.
124
Asset Revaluation Reserve
The asset revaluation reserve is used to record increments and decrements on the
revaluation of non-current assets as described in note 23 Property, plant, equipment,
vehicles and vessels
Depreciation
All non-current assets having a limited useful life are systematically depreciated over their estimated
useful lives in a manner that reflects the consumption of their future economic benefits.
Land is not depreciated. Depreciation on other assets is calculated using the straight line method, using
rates which are reviewed annually. Estimated useful lives for each class of depreciable asset are:
Buildings 40 years
Computer hardware 4 to 7 years
Furniture and fittings 11 years
Maritime infrastructure 5 to 100 years
Plant and equipment 5 to 20 years
Refurbishments 3 to 20 years
Software integral to the operation of related hardware 4 years
Vehicles 6 years Vessels 10 years
Assets under construction are not depreciated until commissioned.
Administered property
All administered Crown land, including land under leases, is administered by the Department under the
Land Administration Act and is reported at fair value (Western Australian Land Information Authority
valuation). Fair value has been determined on the basis of current market value where an active market
exists or current use value where no active market exists and/or the current land use is specialised in
nature.
Cost of sales for land reported as administered is determined, on the following basis:
Developed land at its fair value of undeveloped land plus the development cost for subdividing into lots
available for sale; and
Undeveloped land at sale proceeds, which reflect fair value.
(Including Crown grants and closed roads)
(i) Intangible assets
Capitalisation/Expensing of assets
Acquisitions of intangible assets costing $5,000 or more are capitalised. The cost of utilising the assets is
expensed (amortised) over their useful life. Costs incurred below these thresholds are immediately
expensed directly to the Income Statement. From 1 July 2009 the Department adopted the mandatory
increased capitalisation threshold of $5,000 (refer to note 4 Disclosure of changes in accounting policy
and estimates).
All acquired and internally developed intangible assets are initially recognised at cost. For assets acquired
at no cost or for nominal consideration, the cost is their fair value at the date of acquisition.
The cost model is applied for subsequent measurement requiring the asset to be carried at cost less any
accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.
Amortisation for intangible assets with finite useful lives is calculated for the period of the expected benefit
(estimated useful life) on the straight line basis using rates which are reviewed annually. All intangible
assets controlled by the Department have a finite useful life and zero residual value. The expected useful
lives for each class of intangible asset are:
Software not integral to the operation of related hardware 5 to 10 years
125
Computer software
Software that is an integral part of the related hardware is treated as property, plant and equipment.
Software that is not an integral part of the related hardware is treated as an intangible asset. Software
costing less than $5,000 is expensed in the year of acquisition.
(j) Impairment of assets
Property, plant and equipment, infrastructure and intangible assets are tested for any indication of
impairment at each balance sheet date. Where there is an indication of impairment, the recoverable
amount is estimated. Where the recoverable amount is less than the carrying amount, the asset is
considered impaired and is written down to the recoverable amount and an impairment loss is recognised.
As the Department is a not-for-profit entity, unless an asset has been identified as a surplus asset, the
recoverable amount is the higher of an asset‟s fair value less costs to sell and depreciated replacement
cost.
The risk of impairment is generally limited to circumstances where assets subject to extreme weather
conditions are physically damaged, depreciation is materially understated, where the replacement cost of
an asset is falling or where there is a significant change in the useful life. Each relevant class of assets is
reviewed annually to verify that the accumulated depreciation/ amortisation reflects the level of
consumption or expiration of the asset‟s future economic benefits and to evaluate any impairment risk
from falling replacement costs.
Intangible assets with an indefinite useful life and intangible assets not yet available for use are tested for
impairment at each balance sheet date irrespective of whether there is any indication of impairment.
The recoverable amount of assets identified as surplus assets is the higher of fair value less costs to sell
and the present value of future cash flows expected to be derived from the asset. Surplus assets carried
at fair value have no risk of material impairment where fair value is determined by reference to market-
based evidence. Where fair value is determined by reference to depreciated replacement cost, surplus
assets are at risk of impairment and the recoverable amount is measured. Surplus assets at cost are
tested for indications of impairment at each balance sheet date.
See note 27 Impairment of assets for the outcome of impairment reviews and testing.
See note 3(r) Receivables and note 20 Receivables for impairment of receivables.
(k) Non-current assets (or disposal groups) classified as held for sale
Non-current assets (or disposal groups) held for sale are recognised at the lower of carrying amount and
fair value less costs to sell and are presented separately in the Balance Sheet. Assets classified as held
for sale are not depreciated or amortised.
All land holdings are Crown land vested in the Department by the Government.
(l) Leases
The Department holds operating leases for head office and a number of branch office buildings, motor
vehicles and office equipment. Lease payments are expensed on a straight line basis over the lease term
as this represents the pattern of benefits derived from the leased properties.
126
(m) Financial instruments
In addition to cash and cash equivalents, the Department has two categories of financial instrument:
• Loans and receivables; and
• Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost.
These have been disaggregated into the following classes:
Financial Assets
• Cash and cash equivalents
• Restricted cash and cash equivalents
• Receivables
• Amounts receivable for services
Financial Liabilities
• Payables
• Amounts due to the Treasurer
Initial recognition and measurement of financial instruments is at fair value which normally equates to the
transaction cost or the face value. Subsequent measurement is at amortised cost using the effective
interest method.
The fair value of short-term receivables and payables is the transaction cost or the face value because
there is no interest rate applicable and subsequent measurement is not required as the effect of
discounting is not material.
(n) Cash and cash equivalents
For the purpose of the Cash Flow Statement, cash and cash equivalents includes restricted cash and
cash equivalents. These are comprised of cash on hand and short-term deposits with original maturities of
three months or less that are readily convertible to a known amount of cash and which are subject to
insignificant risk of changes in value.
(o) Accrued salaries
The accrued salaries suspense account (see note 18 Restricted cash and cash equivalents) consists of
amounts paid annually into a suspense account over a period of 10 financial years to largely meet the
additional cash outflow in each eleventh year when 27 pay days occur in that year instead of the normal
26. No interest is received on this account.
Accrued salaries (refer note 28 Payables) represent the amount due to staff but unpaid at the end of the
financial year, as the pay date for the last pay period for that financial year does not coincide with the end
of the financial year. Accrued salaries are settled within a fortnight of the financial year end. The
Department considers the carrying amount of accrued salaries to be equivalent to its net fair value.
(p) Amounts receivable for services (Holding Account)
The Department receives appropriation funding on an accrual basis that recognises the full annual cash
and non-cash cost of services. The appropriations are paid partly in cash and partly as an asset (Holding
Account receivable) that is accessible on the emergence of the cash funding requirement to cover items
such as leave entitlements and asset replacement.
See also note 16 Income from State Government and note 21 Amounts receivable for services.
(q) Inventories
Inventories are measured at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Costs are assigned by the method
most appropriate to each particular class of inventory, with the majority being valued on a first in first out
basis.
Inventories not held for resale are valued at cost unless they are no longer required, in which case they
are valued at net realisable value.
See Note 19 Inventories.
127
(r) Receivables
Receivables are recognised and carried at original invoice amount less any provision for uncollectible
amounts (i.e. impairment). The collectability of receivables is reviewed on an ongoing basis and any
receivables identified as uncollectible are written off against the allowance account. The allowance for
uncollectible amounts (doubtful debts) is raised when there is objective evidence that the Department will
not be able to collect the debts. The carrying amount is equivalent to fair value as it is due for settlement
within 30 days. See note 3(m) Financial Instruments and note 20 Receivables.
(s) Payables
Payables are recognised when the Department becomes obliged to make future payments as a result of a
purchase of assets or services. The carrying amount is equivalent to fair value, as they are generally
settled within 30 days. See note 3(m) Financial Instruments and note 28 Payables.
(t) Amounts due to the Treasurer
The amount due to the Treasurer is in respect of a Treasurer‟s Advance. Initial recognition and
measurement, and subsequent measurement is at the amount repayable. Although there is no interest
charged the amount repayable is equivalent to fair value as the period of the borrowing is less than 12
months with the effect of discounting not being material. See note 46 Administered Assets and Liabilities.
(u) Provisions
Provisions are liabilities of uncertain timing and amount and are recognised where there is a present
legal, equitable or constructive obligation as a result of a past event and when the outflow of resources
embodying economic benefits is probable and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the
obligation. Provisions are reviewed at each balance sheet date. See note 29 Provisions.
(i) Provisions – employee benefits
Annual leave and long service leave
The liability for annual and long service leave expected to be settled within 12 months after the balance
sheet date is recognised and measured at the undiscounted amounts expected to be paid when the
liabilities are settled. Annual and long service leave expected to be settled more than 12 months after the
balance sheet date is measured at the present value of amounts expected to be paid when the liabilities
are settled. Leave liabilities are in respect of services provided by employees up to the balance sheet
date.
When assessing expected future payments consideration is given to expected future wage and salary
levels including non-salary components such as employer superannuation contributions. In addition, the
long service leave liability also considers the experience of employee departures and periods of service.
The expected future payments are discounted using market yields at the balance sheet date on national
government bonds with terms to maturity that match, as closely as possible, the estimated future cash
outflows.
All annual leave and unconditional long service leave provisions are classified as current liabilities as the
Department does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least 12 months
after the balance sheet date.
128
Superannuation
The Government Employees Superannuation Board (GESB) administers the following superannuation
schemes.
Employees may contribute to the Pension Scheme, a defined benefit pension scheme now closed to new
members or the Gold State Superannuation Scheme (GSS), a defined benefit lump sum scheme also
closed to new members. The Department has no liabilities for superannuation charges under the Pension
or the GSS Schemes as the liability has been assumed by the Treasurer.
Employees commencing employment prior to 16 April 2007 who are not members of either the Pension or
GSS Schemes became non-contributory members of the West State Superannuation Scheme (WSS).
Employees commencing employment on or after 16 April 2007 became members of the GESB Super
Scheme (GESBS). Both of these schemes are accumulation schemes. The Department makes
concurrent contributions to GESB on behalf of employees in compliance with the Commonwealth
Government‟s Superannuation Guarantee (Administration) Act 1992. These contributions extinguish the
liability for superannuation charges in respect of the WSS and GESBS Schemes.
The GESB makes all benefit payments in respect of the Pension and GSS Schemes, and is recouped by
the Treasurer for the employer‟s share.
See also note 3(v) Superannuation expense
(ii) Provisions – other
Employment on-costs
Employment on-costs, including workers‟ compensation insurance, are not employee benefits and are
recognised separately as liabilities and expenses when the employment to which they relate has
occurred. Employment on-costs are included as part of „Other expenses‟ and are not included as part of
the Department‟s „Employee benefits expense‟. The related liability is included in „Employment on-costs
provision‟. See note 11 Other Expenses and note 29 Provisions.
(v) Superannuation expense
The following elements are included in calculating the superannuation expense in the Income Statement:
(a) Defined contribution plans - Employers contributions paid to the GSS (concurrent contributions), the
West State Superannuation Scheme (WSS) and the GESB Super Scheme (GESBS). Defined contribution
plans - in order to reflect the Department‟s true cost of services, the Department is funded for the
equivalent of employer contributions in respect of the GSS Scheme (excluding transfer benefits). These
contributions were paid to the GESB during the year and placed in a trust account administered by the
GESB on behalf of the Treasurer. The GESB subsequently paid these employer contributions in respect
of the GSS Scheme to the Consolidated Account. The GSS Scheme is a defined benefit scheme for the
purposes of employees and whole-of-government reporting. However, apart from the transfer benefit, it is
a defined contribution plan for agency purposes because the concurrent contributions (defined
contributions) made by the agency to GESB extinguishes the agency‟s obligations to the related
superannuation liability.
(w) Resources received free of charge or for nominal cost
Resources received free of charge or for nominal cost that can be reliably measured are recognised as
income and as assets or expenses as appropriate, at fair value.
(x) Jointly controlled operations
Interests in joint venture operations have been reported in the financial report including the Department‟s
share of assets, on behalf of government, employed in the joint ventures, the share of liabilities incurred in
relation to the joint ventures and the share of any expenses incurred in relation to the joint ventures in
their respective classification categories. The Department‟s interest, on behalf of government, in joint
venture operations are disclosed in note 46 Administered assets and liabilities.
129
(y) Jointly controlled assets
Interests in jointly controlled assets have been reported in the financial statements including the
Department‟s share of assets employed in the joint venture, the share of liabilities incurred in relation to
the joint venture and the share of any expenses incurred in relation to the joint venture in their respective
classification categories. The Department‟s interest in joint venture assets is disclosed in note 41 Jointly
controlled assets.
(z) Comparative figures
Comparative figures are, where appropriate, reclassified to be comparable with the figures presented in
the current financial year.
130
4. Disclosure of changes in accounting policy and estimates
Initial application of an Australian Accounting Standard
The Department has applied the following Australian Accounting Standards and Australian Accounting
Interpretations effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 July 2008 that impacted on
the Department:
1. Review of AAS 27 „Financial Reporting by Local Governments‟, AAS 29 „Financial Reporting
by Government Departments and AAS 31 „Financial Reporting by Governments‟. The AASB has
made the following pronouncements from its short term review of AAS 27, AAS 29 and AAS 31:
AASB 1004 „Contributions‟; AASB 1050 „Administered Items‟; AASB 1052 „Disaggregated
Disclosures‟; AASB 2007-9 „Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from the
review of AASs 27, 29 and 31 [AASB 3, AASB 5, AASB 8, AASB 101, AASB 114, AASB 116,
AASB 127 & AASB 137]; Interpretation 1038 „Contributions by Owners Made to Wholly-Owned
Public Sector Entities‟. The existing requirements in AAS 27, AAS 29 and AAS 31 have been
transferred to the above new and revised topic-based Standards and Interpretation. These
requirements remain substantively unchanged. The new and revised Standards and
Interpretation make some modifications to disclosures and provide additional guidance,
otherwise there is no financial impact.
Voluntary changes in Accounting Policy
From 1 July 2008, the Department increased its asset capitalisation threshold to $5,000 for Property,
plant, equipment, vehicles and vessels, Infrastructure and Intangible assets as mandated by Treasurer‟s
Instructions. This change in Accounting Policy resulted in an adjustment to equity for approximately
$883,000, being the written down value of Non- Current Assets below $5,000 that were retired. See also
note 31 Equity.
131
Future impact of Australian Accounting Standards not yet operative
The Department cannot early adopt an Australian Accounting Standard or Australian Accounting
Interpretation unless specifically permitted by Treasurer‟s Instruction 1101 „Application of Australian
Accounting Standards and Other Pronouncement‟s‟. Consequently, the Department has not applied the
following Australian Accounting Standards and Australian Accounting Interpretations that have been
issued and which may impact the Department but are not yet effective. Where applicable, the Department
plans to apply these Standards and Interpretations from their application date:
1. ASB 101 „Presentation of Financial Statements‟ (September 2007). 1 January
This Standard has been revised and will change the structure of the 2009
financial statements. These changes will require that owner changes
in equity are presented separately from non-owner changes in equity.
The Department does not expect any financial impact when the
Standard is first applied.
2. AASB 2008-13 „Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards 1 July 2009
arising from AASB Interpretation 17 – of Non-cash Assets to Owners
[AASB 5 & AASB 110]. This Standard amends AASB 5 „Non-current
Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations‟ in respect of the
classification, presentation and measurement of non-current assets
held for distribution to owners in their capacity as owners. This may
impact on the presentation and classification of Crown land held by
the Department where the Crown land is to be sold by the Department
for Planning and Infrastructure. The Department does not expect any
financial impact when the Standard is first applied prospectively.
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
5 Employee benefits expense
Wages and salaries (i) 114 296 96 229
Superannuation - defined contribution plans (ii) 11 403 9 798
Long service leave (iii) 6 761 5 013
Annual leave (iii) 10 099 12 075
Other related expenses 2 567 2 461
145 126 125 576
(i) Includes the value of the fringe benefit to the employee plus fringe
benefits tax component.
(ii) Defined contribution plans include West State, Gold State and GESB
Super Scheme (contributions paid).
(iii) Includes a superannuation contribution component.
Employment on-costs such as workers‟ compensation insurance are
included at note 11 Other expenses. The employment on-costs liability is
included at note
29 Provisions.
132
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
6 Supplies and services
Communications 7 121 6 286
Consultants and contractors 34 323 33 227
Consumables 28 224 26 723
Commissions 13 702 10 932
Repairs and maintenance 9 221 12 282
Travel 1 896 1 786
Other 6 168 5 917
100 655 97 153
7 Depreciation and amortisation expense
Depreciation
Buildings 701 634
Refurbishments 1 549 1 409
Plant and equipment 405 400
Computer hardware 942 806
Furniture and fittings 22 24
Vehicles and vessels 136 116
Infrastructure 4 924 4 794
Total depreciation 8 679 8 183
Amortisation
Intangible assets 3 397 3 178
Total amortisation 3 397 3 178
Total depreciation and amortisation expense 12 076 11 361
8 Finance costs
Interest expense - 8
9 Accommodation expenses
Lease rentals 12 682 8 758
Cleaning 1 262 1 021
13 944 9 779
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
133
10 Grants and subsidies expense
Bicycle infrastructure development 2 608 2 145
Central Area Transit (CAT) bus services 9 106 8 588
Green Taxi 38 -
Liquid Petroleum Gas subsidy scheme 10 958 11 121
Local governments and shires 772 8 066
Pensioner subsidies 1 311 1 520
Port management 1 812 2 053
Public air transport 880 643
Regional airport development 5 312 730
Shipping 7 815 7 810
Student subsidies 1 125 1 383
Taxi user subsidies 7 930 8 765
Fremantle port rail service support - 3 081
Feasibility study - 700
Other 11 347 6 857
61 014 63 462
11 Other expenses
Employment on-costs (i) 561 930
Audit cost (ii) 265 218
Construction in progress balances previously capitalised 640 356
Doubtful debts expense 600 105
Multi Purpose Taxi Plate Buyback - 877
Other 1 820 2 418
3 886 4 904
(i) Includes worker‟s compensation insurance and other employment on-
costs. The on-costs liability associated with the recognition of annual
and long service leave liability is included at note 29 Provisions.
Superannuation contributions accrued as part of the provision for
leave are employee benefits and are not included in employment on-
costs.
(ii) Audit cost, see also note 40 Remuneration of auditor.
134
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
12 User charges and fees
Boat registration fees 9 278 8 547
Port charges 1 271 1 517
Small boat harbour fees 5 867 5 857
Vessel survey fees 2 021 1 825
Other maritime fees 1 151 1 022
Motor drivers licence application fees 14 889 14 958
Motor vehicle transfer, plate and inspection fees 28 448 25 912
Perth parking licence fees 10 227 9 484
Rail safety registration fees 1 426 1 233
Taxi licence fees 9 037 11 580
Other fees 1 972 2 191
85 587 84 126
13 Grants and subsidies revenue
Commonwealth grants 4 485 1 497
General government grants 4 674 735
Other 4 012 1 947
13 171 4 179
14 Other revenues
Commissions 13 325 11 827
Rents and leases 11 136 9 266
Recoups of operating expenses 16 893 14 877
Other 8 830 8 968
50 184 44 938
15 Net loss on disposal of non-current assets
Plant, equipment, vehicles and vessels
Costs of disposal 94 1 200
Proceeds from disposal 39 96
Net loss (55) (1 104)
Infrastructure
Costs of disposal - 46
Proceeds from disposal - -
Net loss - (46)
Total net loss (55) (1 150)
2009 2008
135
$ 000 $ 000
16 Income from State Government
Appropriation received during the year
Service appropriations 194 489 169 624
Service appropriations are accrual amounts reflecting the full cost of
services delivered. The appropriation revenue comprises a cash
component and a receivable (asset). The receivable (holding account)
comprises the depreciation expense for the year and any agreed increase
in leave liabilities during the year.
Assets transferred
The following assets have been assumed from/( transferred
to) other
state government agencies during the financial year
Property, plant, equipment, vehicles and vessels assumed 330 -
Property, plant, equipment, vehicles and vessels transferred (7 513) ( 500)
Total assets transferred (7 183) ( 500)
Where the Treasurer or other entity has assumed a liability, the
Department recognises revenues equivalent to the amount of the liability
assumed and an expense relating to the nature of the event or events that
initially gave rise to the liability. From 1 July 2002 non-discretionary non-
reciprocal transfers of net assets (i.e. restructuring of administrative
arrangements) have been classified as Contributions by Owners (CBO's)
under TI 955 Contributions by Owners Made to Wholly Owned Public
Sector Entities and are taken directly to equity. Discretionary transfers of
assets between State Government agencies are reported as Assets
assumed/(transferred) under Income from State Government.
Resources received free of charge
Determined on the basis of the following estimates provided by
agencies:
State Solicitor's Office 994 1 176
Department of Housing and Works 93 81
Western Australian Land Information Authority 5 328 4 202
Department of Treasury and Finance 348 293
Commissioner of Main Roads 472 572
7 235 6 324
136
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
16 Income from State Government (continued)
Where assets or services have been received free of charge or for
nominal consideration, the Department recognises revenues (except
where the contributions of assets or services are in the nature of
contributions by owners in which case the Department shall make a direct
adjustment to equity) equivalent to the fair value of the assets and/or the
fair value of those services that can be reliably determined and which
would have been purchased if not donated, and those fair values shall be
recognised as assets or expenses, as applicable.
Royalties for Regions
Royalties for Regions Fund 460 -
The recurrent funds are committed to projects and programs in WA
regional areas.
17 Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents 39 633 31 900
Includes cash received as capital contributions remaining unspent at year
end of
$7,628,000 (2008: $13,016,000)
137
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
18 Restricted cash and cash equivalents
Current
Off-Road Vehicles Account (i) 235 212
Perth Parking Licensing Account (ii) 2 173 1 529
Rail Safety Accreditation Account (iii) 1 223 1 087
Taxi Industry Development Account (iv) 13 065 8 933
Small Craft Facilities - User Pays Account (v) 2 027 4 116
18 723 15 877
Non-current
Accrued salaries suspense account (vi) 1 646 1 147
Funds held as restricted cash can only be used to:
(i) meet the costs of administering the Control of Vehicles (Off Road
Areas) Act 1978 and for matters approved by the Minister and the
Treasurer.
(ii) meet the costs of administering the Perth Parking Management Act
1999 or for a purpose connected with the Perth Parking Policy.
(iii) meet the costs of administering the Rail Safety Act 1998.
(iv) pay remuneration and allowances to board members, pay for taxi
plates surrendered to the Minister, pay grants for research, promotion
and development projects that benefit the taxi industry and meet the
costs of administering the Taxi Act 1994.
(v) fund the provision, maintenance, upgrading and management of small
craft facilities.
(vi) meet the 27th pay in a financial year that occurs every 11 years.
19 Inventories
Current
Inventories held for sale (at cost)
Charts and publications 56 56
Motor vehicle plates 476 461
532 517
See also note 3(q) Inventories
138
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
20 Receivables
Current
Receivables 5 152 7 032
Allowance for impairment of receivables (1 576) (975)
Goods and services tax receivable 1 374 1 686
Prepayments 399 635
Interest receivable 368 315
5 717 8 693
Reconciliation of changes in the allowance for
impairment of receivables
Balance at start of year 975 279
Doubtful debts expense recognised in the income statement 600 696
Amounts written off during the year (56) -
Amount recovered during the year 57 -
Balance at end of year 1 576 975
The Department does not hold any collateral as security or
other credit enhancements relating to receivables.
See also note 3(r) Receivables and note 38 Financial Instruments
21 Amounts receivable for services
Non-current
Amounts receivables for services 116 587 101 584
Represents the non-cash component of service appropriations (see note
3(p) Amounts Receivable for Services (Holding Account)). It is restricted
in that it can only be used for asset replacement or payment of leave
liability.
22 Other assets
Current
Other current assets 645 1 895
645 1 895
139
23 Property, plant, equipment, vehicles and vessels
2009 2008
Accum. Accum.
Cost/Fair Accum. impairment Carrying Cost/Fair Accum. impairment Carrying
value depr. losses amount value depr. losses amount
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
At fair value:
Land 111 583 - - 111 583 92 924 - - 92 924
Pastoral land leases 79 825 - - 79 825 75 904 - - 75 904
Crown land leases 3 502 - - 3 502 9 015 - - 9 015
Buildings 31 183 13 044 - 18 139 28 874 11 654 - 17 220
226 093 13 044 - 213 049 206 717 11 654 - 195 063
At cost:
Refurbishments 16 107 9 432 - 6 675 11 621 8 102 - 3 519
Plant and equipment 6 126 4 505 1 1 620 5 799 4 169 22 1 608
Computer hardware 7 559 4 234 - 3 325 7 304 3 975 - 3 329
Furniture and fittings 278 124 - 154 273 103 - 170
Vehicles 189 171 - 18 189 159 - 30
Vessels 1 476 630 - 846 1 160 513 - 647
31 735 19 096 1 12 638 26 346 17 021 22 9 303
Total 257 828 32 140 1 225 687 233 063 28 675 22 204 366
Freehold land and buildings were revalued as at 1 July 2008 by the
Western Australian Land Information Authority (Valuation Services). The
valuations were performed during the year ended 30 June 2009 and
recognised at 30 June 2009. In undertaking the revaluation, fair value
was determined by reference to market values for land: $85,951,000 and
buildings: $6,556,000. For the remaining balance fair values of land was
determined on the basis of current use for
land: $108,959,000 and depreciated replacement cost for buildings:
$11,583,000. See note 3(h) Property, plant and equipment and
infrastructure.
“Accum.” denotes accumulated and “depr.” denotes depreciation.
140
Reconciliations of the carrying amounts of property, plant, equipment, vehicles
and vessels at the beginning and end of the financial year are set out below.
23 Property, plant, equipment, vehicles and vessels
(continued)
Carrying Carrying
amount Impairment amount
at start losses at end
Write-
of year Additions Revaluation recognised Disposals Transfers Depreciation off of year
2009 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Land 92 924 - 18 654 - - 5 - - 111 583
Pastoral land
leases 75 904 - 5 615 - - (1 694) - - 79 825
Crown land
leases 9 015 - 487 - - (6 000) - - 3 502
Buildings 17 220 1 027 673 - - (80) (701) - 18 139
Refurbishments 3 519 4 705 - - - - (1 549) - 6 675
Plant and
equipment 1 608 495 - (1) (77) - (405) - 1 620
Computer
hardware 3 329 938 - - - - (942) - 3 325
Furniture and
fittings 170 6 - - - - (22) - 154
Vehicles 30 - - - - - (12) - 18
Vessels 647 340 - - (17) - (124) - 846
204 366 7 511 25 429 (1) (94) (7 769) (3 755) - 225 687
Carrying Carrying
amount Impairment amount
at start losses at end
of year AdditionsRevaluationrecognised DisposalsTransfersDepreciationWrite-off of year
2008 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Land 81 671 93 13 860 - - (2 700) - - 92 924
Pastoral land leases 58 486 - 17 629 - - (211) - - 75 904
Crown land leases 15 759 696 1 097 - - (8 537) - - 9 015
Buildings 16 973 607 1 888 - (996) (618) (634) - 17 220
Refurbishments 2 748 2 261 - - (81) - (1 409) - 3 519
Plant and equipment1 494 580 - (22) (80) 40 (400) (4) 1 608
Computer hardware 1 105 3 067 - - (37) - (806) - 3 329
Furniture and fittings 187 7 - - - - (24) - 170
Vehicles 54 - - - (6) - (18) - 30
Vessels 489 256 - - - - (98) - 647
178 966 7 567 34 474 (22) (1 200) (12 026) (3 389) (4) 204 366
141
24 Infrastructure
2009 2008
Accum. Accum.
Accum impairmen Carryin impairmen Carryin
. t g Accum. t g
Cost depr. losses amount Cost depr. losses amount
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Maritime
infrastructure
Wharves and
facilities 67 748 38 493 - 29 255 65 740 36 788 - 28 952
Breakwaters and
groynes 48 235 15 494 - 32 741 47 725 15 015 - 32 710
Channel
development 41 650 11 583 - 30 067 41 650 11 166 - 30 484
and facilities
Associated
infrastructure 48 098 28 891 - 19 207 43 709 27 229 94 16 386
Navigation aids 18 905 10 356 8 8 541 18 577 9 839 - 8 738
Total 224 104 100
infrastructure 636 817 8 119 811 217 401 037 94 117 270
“Accum.” denotes accumulated and “depr.” denotes depreciation.
142
Reconciliations
Reconciliations of the carrying amounts of infrastructure at the beginning
and end of the financial year are set out below.
Carrying Carrying
Impairm
amount ent amount
at start losses at end
Addition recognis Disposal Deprecia
of year s ed s tion Write-off of year
2009 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Maritime infrastructure
Wharves and facilities 28 952 2 014 - - (1 711) - 29 255
Breakwaters and groynes 32 710 511 - - (480) - 32 741
Channel development 30 484 - - - (417) - 30 067
and facilities
Associated infrastructure 16 386 4 620 - - (1 799) - 19 207
Navigation aids 8 738 328 (8) - (517) - 8 541
Total infrastructure 117 270 7 473 (8) - (4 924) - 119 811
Carrying Carrying
Impairm
amount ent amount
at start losses at end
Addition recognis Disposal Deprecia
of year s ed s tion Write-off of year
2008 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Maritime infrastructure
Wharves and facilities 26 955 3 772 - - (1 775) - 28 952
Breakwaters and groynes 31 834 1 350 - - (474) - 32 710
Channel development 30 901 - - - (417) - 30 484
and facilities
Associated infrastructure 13 645 4 464 (94) - (1 629) - 16 386
Navigation aids 7 842 1 513 - (46) (499) (72) 8 738
Total infrastructure 111 177 11 099 (94) (46) (4 794) ( 72) 117 270
143
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
25 Intangible assets
Software
at cost 34 708 34 968
Accumulated amortisation (16 842) (13 866)
17 866 21 102
Reconciliation
Reconciliations of the carrying amount of intangible assets at the
beginning and end of the financial year are set out below.
Software
Carrying amount at the start of the year 21 102 21 677
Additions 161 2 603
Amortisation expense (3 397) (3 178)
Carrying amount at the end of the year 17 866 21 102
26 Construction in progress
At cost:
Vessels 24 234
Computer hardware and software 912 430
Buildings and refurbishments 3 930 3 925
Intangibles 9 951 5 905
Maritime infrastructure 10 526 7 166
25 343 17 660
Reconciliation
Reconciliations of the carrying amounts of construction in progress at the
beginning and end of the financial year are set out below.
Carrying amount at the start of the year 17 660 16 128
Expenditure during the year 21 131 17 162
Non-current assets commissioned during the year (12 808) (15 278)
Amounts expensed (640) (352)
Carrying amount at the end of the year 25 343 17 660
144
27 Impairment of assets
The impairment losses recognised relate to assets that are no longer operational and have been
decommissioned. The full amount was recognised in the income statement, as there was no
amount included in the asset revaluation reserve relating to these assets. The recoverable amount
of these assets was determined by an internal expert as its fair value less costs to sell, based on an
active market.
The Department held no goodwill or intangible assets with an indefinite useful life during the
reporting period.
No surplus assets have been identified at 30 June 2009 and there were no assets classified as held
for sale.
145
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
28 Payables
Current
Trade creditors 8 101 3 964
Accrued salaries 1 348 763
9 449 4 727
See also note 3(s) Payables and note 38 Financial instruments.
29 Provisions
Current
Employee benefits provision
Annual leave (i) 12 767 12 996
Long service leave (ii) 10 113 9 327
22 880 22 323
Other provisions
Employment on-costs (iii) 526 513
23 406 22 836
Non-current
Employee benefits provision
Long service leave (ii) 10 758 8 016
Other provisions
Employment on-costs (iii) 251 187
11 009 8 203
(i) Annual leave liabilities have been classified as current as there is no
unconditional right to defer settlement for at least 12 months after
balance sheet date. Assessments indicate that actual settlement of the
liabilities will occur as follows:
Within 12 months of balance sheet date 7 130 6 562
More than 12 months after balance sheet date 5 974 6 434
13 104 12 996
146
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
29 Provisions (continued)
(ii) Long service leave liabilities have been classified as current where there
is no unconditional right to defer settlement for at least 12 months after
balance sheet date. Assessments indicate that actual settlement of the
liabilities will occur as follows:
Within 12 months of balance sheet date 6 742 6 265
More than 12 months after balance sheet date 14 713 11 078
21 455 17 343
(iii) The settlement of annual and long service leave liabilities gives rise to
the payment of employment on-costs including workers‟ compensation
insurance. The provision is the present value of expected future
payments. The associated expense is disclosed in note 11 Other
expenses.
Movements in other provisions:
Movements in each class of provisions during the financial year, other than
employee benefits, are set out below:
Employment on-cost provisions:
Carrying amount at the start of the year 700 116
Additional provisions recognised 78 584
Carrying amount at end of year 778 700
30 Other liabilities
Current
Income received in advance 4 266 1 171
Other liabilities 1 132 1 564
5 398 2 735
147
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
31 Equity
Equity represents the residual interest in the net assets of the Department.
The Government holds the equity interest in the Department on behalf of
the community. The asset revaluation reserve represents that portion of
equity resulting from the revaluation of non-current assets.
Contributed equity
Balance at the start of the year 141 864 119 726
Contributions by owners
Capital contributions (i) 4 643 33 658
Total contributions by owners 4 643 33 658
Distributions to owners (ii)
Net assets transferred to Department of Fisheries - (2 700)
Net assets transferred to East Perth Redevelopment
Authority - (8 820)
Net assets transferred - Land (585) -
Total distributions to owners (585) (11 520)
Balance at the end of the year 145 922 141 864
(i) Capital Contributions (appropriations) and non-discretionary (non-
reciprocal) transfers of net assets from other State government
agencies have been designated as contributions by owners in
Treasurer‟s Instruction TI 955 Contributions by Owners Made to Wholly
Owned Public Sector Entities and are credited directly to equity in the
Balance Sheet.
(ii) UIG Interpretation 1038 Contributions by Owners Made to Wholly
Owned Public Sector Entities requires where the transferee accounts for
a transfer as a contribution by owner, the transferor must account for the
transfer as a distribution to owners. Consequently, non-discretionary
(non-reciprocal) transfers of net assets to other State government
agencies are distribution to owners and are debited directly to equity.
148
Reserves
Asset revaluation reserve
Balance at the start of the year 134 445 99 970
Net revaluation increments:
Land 24 756 32 587
Buildings 673 1 888
Balance at the end of the year 159 874 134 445
Accumulated surplus
Balance at the start of the year 207 200 211 499
Change in accounting policy
Increase in asset capitalisation threshold for property, plant
and equipment - (925)
Increase in provision for doubtful debts - (591)
Restated balance at the start of the year 207 200 209 983
Result for the period 9 932 (2 783)
Balance at the end of the year 217 132 207 200
149
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
32 Notes to the Cash Flow Statement
(a) Reconciliation of cash
Cash at the end of the financial year as shown in the Cash Flow
Statement is reconciled to the related items in the Balance Sheet as
follows:
Cash and cash equivalents (i) 39 633 31 900
Restricted cash and cash equivalents (ii) 20 369 17 024
60 002 48 924
(i) These cash and cash equivalents include $7,628,000 (2008
$13,016,000) capital contribution and funds available to meet
expenditure commitments.
(ii) See note 18 Restricted cash and cash equivalents.
(b) Reconciliation of net cost of services to net cash flows provided by/(used
in) operating activities
( 178
Net cost of services (185 069) 231)
Non cash items:
Depreciation and amortisation expense 12 076 11 361
Doubtful debts expense 600 98
Impairment expense 9 116
Net loss on disposal of non-current assets - 1 150
Resources received free of charge 7235 6 324
Expenses previously held in construction in progress 642 356
Initial recognition of assets not previously recognised - ( 587)
Assets purchased but expensed in prior years - ( 26)
(Increase)/decrease in assets
Current inventories (15) ( 132)
Current receivables 2 976 ( 142)
Other current assets (292) ( 1 381)
Increase/(decrease) in liabilities
Current payables 4 722 84
Current provisions 570 4 354
Other current liabilities 2 663 683
Non-current provisions 2 806 1 599
Net GST receipts/payments 1 542 ( 2 549)
Change in GST in receivables/payables (1 032) ( 1 050)
( 157
Net cash used in operating activities (150 567) 973)
150
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
33 Resources provided free of charge
During the year the following resources were provided to other agencies
free of charge for functions outside the normal operations of the
Department:
Western Australian Police Service - firearms collection fees - 84
Various State and Commonwealth departments and
agencies:
Spatial (mapping) information 18 14
Tides and waves information - 8
Technical advice 528 16
Technical advice - WAPC waterfront and canal
development - 299
546 421
151
34 Commitments
(a) Capital expenditure commitments
Capital expenditure commitments, being contracted capital expenditure
additional to the amounts reported in the financial statements, are
payable as follows:
Within one year 1 820 333
Later than one year but not later than five years 23 -
Later than five years - -
1 843 333
The capital expenditure commitments include amounts for:
Transport 1 492 -
Maritime facilities - 198
Information technology 351 135
1 843 333
(b) Other expenditure commitments
Within one year 19 494 30 543
Later than one year but not later than five years 6 455 34 230
Later than five years - 288
25 949 65 061
The other expenditure commitments include amounts for:
Software licence and maintenance 120 216
Maritime facilities 5 157 15 261
Transport 18 811 49 584
Approved voluntary redundancy applications 1 861 -
25 949 65 061
152
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
34 Commitments (continued)
(c) Non-cancellable operating lease commitments
Commitments in relation to non-cancellable operating lease rentals
contracted for at balance sheet date but not recognised as liabilities in
the financial statements are payable as follows:
Within one year 10 293 9 666
Later than one year but not later than five years 18 328 17 415
Later than five years 8 316 6 129
36 937 33 210
All leases are non-cancellable 36 937 33 210
These commitments are all inclusive of GST
(d) Lease revenue commitments
The minimum lease revenue in relation to non-cancellable operating
lease rentals contracted for at balance sheet date but not recognised as
assets in the financial statements are receivable as follows:
Within one year 8 593 7 896
Later than one year but not later than five years 25 531 23 637
Later than five years 60 672 51 612
94 796 83 145
153
35 Contingent liabilities and contingent assets
Contingent liabilities
In addition to the liabilities incorporated in the financial statements, the Department has the
following contingent liabilities:
Litigation in progress:
The Department has pending litigation that may affect the financial position.
- Three actions for compensation against the Department. The potential maximum financial
effect is $228,000.
Contaminated Sites
Under the Contaminated Sites Act 2003, the Department is required to report known and suspected
contaminated sites to the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC). In accordance with
the Act, DEC classifies these sites on the basis of the risk to human health, the environment and
environmental values. Where sites are classified as contaminated - remediation required or possibly
contaminated - investigation required, the Department may have a liability in respect of investigation
or remediation expenses.
Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) has approved a program under section 12 of
the Contaminated Sites Act 2003 for the systematic identification, inspection, reporting and
treatment of suspected contaminated sites on Crown land under direct State Land Services (SLS)
management.
Initial inspection of the approximately 10,000 suspected contaminated sites will be conducted by
contractors, with SLS management determining whether the inspection reports indicate that a site
merits further investigation and reporting to DEC. Subsequent detailed examination and reporting to
DEC will be conducted by duly qualified environmental consultants and contaminated sites auditors,
contracted by SLS.
The extent of the Department's liability will only be able to be assessed as DEC progressively
classifies sites under a program which is expected to continue for many years.
Contingent assets
In addition to the assets incorporated in the financial statements, the Department has the
following contingent assets:
Insurance claims:
The Department has pending insurance claims that may affect the financial position.
- Two actions for the recoupment of costs incurred by the Department in relation to emergency
responses. The potential maximum financial effect is $255,000.
154
36 Events occurring after balance sheet date
On 1 July 2009:
- the designation of the Department for Planning and Infrastructure was altered to Department of
Planning
- the operations of Licensing, Marine Safety, Passenger Services, Regional Services, Rail Safety,
Coastal Facilities and their associated assets and liabilities were transferred to the newly
established Department of Transport.
- the operations of State Land Services and their associated assets and liabilities were transferred
to the newly established Department of Regional Development and Land.
155
37 Explanatory statement
Significant variations between estimates and actual results for income and expenses as presented
in the financial statement titled Summary of Consolidated Account Appropriations and Income
Estimates are shown below. Significant variations are considered to be those greater than 10% or
$1 million.
(i) Significant variations between estimate and actual for 2009 – Total appropriation to
deliver services
(a) Net amount appropriated to deliver services
2009 Estimate 2009 Actual Variance
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000
188 615 194 071 5 456
The major variations in funding are:
Salary Increases as a result of the PSGA wage agreement 4 663
LPG Subsidy Scheme 4 434
Support for Fremantle Port Rail Service 3 500
Leased Accommodation and Facility Management due to increased rentals 3 170
and associated facility management costs
Regional Airport Development Scheme - Royalties for Region Election Commitment 2 000
Change of funding source for Koondoola Revitalisation and Wanneroo Revitalisation 1 785
from Equity Contribution to Recurrent (Appropriation)
Esperance Lead and Nickel Clean up and Recovery Project 1 050
Property Asset Clearing House as per EERC Decision 17 March 2009 260
Section 25 Transfer of Daddow Road to MRWA (5 300)
3% Government Initiated Efficiency Dividend (3 773)
Regional Airport Development Scheme - funding source changed from Appropriation (2 000)
to Royalties for Regions (Regional Infrastructure and Head works Fund)
Deferral of North Greenbushes Inter modal Terminal Facility and Revitalised Rail (1 287)
Service to 2009-10
Transfer of Recurrent Appropriation to Equity Contribution for Minor Capital Works (1 180)
Transfer to Capital for Regional Accommodation and Telecommunications (750)
Deferral of Administration costs for Owner Driver (Contracts and Disputes) (405)
Bill to 2009-10 and out years
Deferral of Wanneroo Revitalisation project to 2009-10 (285)
Savings from Media, Marketing and Advertising (206)
Transfer of appropriation to capital to fund Licensing Business Unit Reform Capital (200)
project
(b) Amount authorised by other statutes
2009 Estimate 2009 Actual Variance
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000
423 418 (5)
The reduction is a result of reduced costs associated with the
remuneration package for the new Director General as per determination
of the Salaries and Allowances Tribunal
156
37 Explanatory statement (continued)
(i) Significant variations between estimate and actual for 2009 – Total appropriation to
deliver services (continued)
(c) Service expenditure
2009 2009
Estimate Actual Variance
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Transport system planning and regulation 102 471 112 237 9 766
The variation is primarily due to:
Increase cost associated with Taxi Industry Development Account 2 874
Increased dredging costs associated with Dawesville Sand 2 595
Bypassing, Kalbarri and Bandy Creek Boat Harbours
Increased salaries cost mainly attributable to the PSGA increases 1 564
Cost associated with enhanced service delivery at Regional Areas 1 667
Additional commitment through Royalties for Region for 572
Regional Airport Development Scheme
Increased costs relating to cycling and travelsmart activities 514
Increased facilities management costs associated with Small Craft 475
Facilities
Increased LPG Subsidy 349
Increase in Taxi User Subsidy Scheme 158
These increases are offset by reduction for:
3 Percent Efficiency Dividend (1 742)
Motor vehicle registration and driver licensing services 126 521 121 844 (4 677)
The variation is primarily due to:
Increased salaries cost mainly attributable to increase in overtime 2 271
associated with the Practical Driver Assessments undertaken after
hours and on weekends. PSGA increases also had an impact on
cost increase
Reduced cost associated with sale of motor vehicle licence plates as (1 064)
a result of the downturn in new and used motor vehicle sales
Allocation to higher priority activities including
Transfer to Minor Capital Works (1 000)
Expansion of Regional Services (800)
3 percent Efficiency Dividend (1 284)
Reduced costs as a result of deferral of various programs such as (975)
Repeat Drink Driver deferred to 2009-10
Transfer to Capital For Regional Accommodation and (750)
Telecommunication
Savings in Agent Fees and Commission mainly due to underspend in (724)
Merchant Fees and across the counter processing costs offset by
increase in Authorised Inspection Station commission (due to
redirection of vehicle examinations to authorised providers to reduce
waiting times in Vehicle Examination Centres)
157
37 Explanatory statement (continued)
(i) Significant variations between estimate and actual for 2009 – Total appropriation to
deliver services (continued)
(c) Service expenditure (continued)
2009 2009
Estimate Actual Variance
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Land accessibility planning and policy development 55 969 58 749 2 780
The variation is primarily due to:
Deferral of expenditure for the Wanneroo Revitalisation 1 656
project from 2007-08 which was not included in the
2008-09 estimates
Change of treatment of the electronic Land 1 032
Development Process (eLDP) from Capital to Recurrent
due to the re scoping of the project
These increases are offset by reduction for:
3 percent Efficiency Dividend (399)
Integrated land and transport policy development (10
54 274 43 924 350)
The variation is primarily due to:
Transfer of Daddow Road project to Main Roads WA (12 800)
during 2008-09
Additional support for the Fremantle Port Rail service in 2 013
2008-09
Reduction as a result of the 3 Percent Efficiency (348)
Dividend
(d) Operating revenues
146 151
Total income other than from State Government 5 095
594 689
The number of peak period taxi plates and conventional 4 410
taxi lease plates was greater than anticipated
Commonwealth funding for the Perth Airport Transport 3 000
Master Plan
Higher than anticipated rent /lease revenue from various 2 164
maritime facilities as a result of rent review to reflect
current market rate
These Increases in revenue were offset by :
Reduction in motor vehicle inspections fee revenue is (3 249)
primarily due
to the overall decrease in the total number of vehicle
inspections performed and the removal of inspections for
some vehicles
transferring from the Eastern States
Reduction in WAPC Fee Revenue as a result of fewer (1 296)
than
anticipated applications processed due to the economic
conditions
158
37 Explanatory statement (continued)
(ii) Significant variances between actuals for 2008 and 2009 – Total
appropriation to deliver services
(a) Net amount appropriated to deliver services
2009 2008
Actual Actual Variance
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000
194 071 169 036 25 035
The variation is primarily due to:
LPG Subsidy Increase 5 608
Salary Increases as a result of the PSGA wage agreement 4 663
Support for Fremantle Port Rail Service 3 500
Leased Accommodation and Facility Management due to increased rentals 3 170
and associated facility management costs
Deferral of funding for Regional Airport Development Scheme to 2008-09 2 800
Deferral of funding for Risk Mitigation to 2008-09 2 040
Change of funding source for Koondoola Revitalisation and Wanneroo 1 785
Revitalisation from Equity Contribution to Recurrent Appropriation.
Deferral of funding for Local Government Planning Assistance to 2008-09 1 500
Esperance Lead and Nickel Clean up and Recovery Project 1 050
Removal of Oakajee Port and Industrial Estate - Essential Studies (1 250)
b) Amounts authorised by other statutes
418 588 (170)
Retirement benefit paid to previous Director General in 2007-08
159
37 Explanatory statement (continued)
(ii) Significant variances between actuals for 2008 and 2009 – Total
appropriation to deliver services (continued)
(c) Service expenditure
2009 2008
Actual Actual Variance
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Transport system planning and regulation 112 237 107 471 4 766
The variation is primarily due to:
Increase in funding for Regional Airport Development 4 581
Scheme
Motor vehicle registration and driver licensing services 121 844 103 464 18 380
The variation is primarily due to:
Increase in salaries and associated superannuation cost 7 158
relating to PSGA Wage agreement and back pay as well
as increase in overtime associated with Practical Driver
Assessments undertaken after hours and on weekends
Increase in cost associated with LBU Reform 2 951
Increase cost associated with agent fees and commission 2 767
due to increase in Authorised Inspection Station
commission (due to redirection of vehicle examinations to
authorised providers to reduce waiting times in Vehicle
Examination Centres)
Cost in respect of the Country Age Pension Fuel Card 2 063
project introduced in 2008-09
Increase printing costs is a result of the mandatory 664
legislative and form design changes, the order volumes of
base stock items in smaller amounts and stock
replenishing in lower volumes
Increase in Lease Rental costs due to higher office rent as 556
well as expansion of Willagee Licensing centre and the
new Osborne Park Vehicle Examination Centre
Increase in telecommunication costs 252
160
37 Explanatory statement (continued)
(ii) Significant variances between actuals for 2008 and 2009 – Total
appropriation to deliver services (continued)
(c) Service expenditure (continued)
2009 2008
Actual Actual Variance
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Land accessibility planning and policy development 58 749 50 486 8 263
The variation is primarily due to:
Increase in employment costs associated with PSGA 4 547
increases and related on costs as well as back payment
for 2007-08
Reclassification of the Wanneroo Revitalisation project 1 655
from Integrated Land and Policy Development in 2007-08
to Land Accessibility Planning and Policy Development in
2008-09
Cost associated with Maddington Kenwick Revitalisation 813
(previously under Integrated Land and Transport Policy
Development) and Mirrabooka Shopping Centre.
Increased Leased Accommodation and Facility 941
Management due to increased rentals and associated
facility management costs
Integrated land and transport policy development 43 925 51 972 (8 047)
The variation is primarily due to:
Reclassification of the Wanneroo Revitalisation project (6 125)
from Integrated Land and Policy Development in 2007-08
to Land Accessibility Planning and Policy Development in
2008-09
Reclassification of the Maddington Kenwick Revitalisation (768)
project from Integrated Land and Policy Development in
2007-08 to Land Accessibility Planning and Policy
Development in 2008-09
Anzac Peace Park in Albany completed in 2007-08 (250)
Cost associated with the Roleystone Town Revitalisation (225)
Sustainability project completed in 2007-08
161
37 Explanatory statement (continued)
(ii) Significant variances between actuals for 2008 and 2009 – Total
appropriation to deliver services (continued)
(d) Operating revenues
2009 2008
Actual Actual Variance
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Total income other than from State Government 151 689 135 162 16 527
The variance is primarily due to:
Commonwealth funding for the Perth Airport Transport 3 000
Master Plan approved in 2008-09
Increase in rent and lease revenue as a result of increases 1 870
in rental rates to reflect market trends
Funding provided for Woodman Point (Jervois Bay) Boat 1 666
Launching Facility Stage 1
Increase in Motor Vehicle Inspection Fees as a result of 1 560
higher than expected activity in Motor Vehicle Inspections
compared to 2007-08
Increase in commission received for the collection of third 1 498
party insurance premiums on behalf of the Insurance
Commission of Western Australia as a result of an
increase of 5 percent in the volume of transactions as well
an increase in the charge per transaction
Funding for Country Age Pension Fuel Card Project in 1 273
2008-09
Increase in project work on behalf of the WA Planning 1 030
Commission
Funding to provide accessible licensing services at 1 000
Indigenous communities.
Increase in Motor Vehicle Transfer revenue is a result of 981
higher than anticipated number of vehicle transfers
Insurance claim to reimburse the Department for costs 750
associated with the storm damage to the Esperance
(Bandy Creek) Boat Harbour
Increase in Perth Parking revenue as a result of increases 742
in fees for Long Stay Public/Tenant parking and Short Stay
Public parking
Increase in Boat Registrations revenue as a result of fee 731
increases as well as growth in ownership of recreational
boats
162
37 Explanatory statement (continued)
(iii) Significant variances between estimate and actual for 2009 – Capital
contribution
2009 2009
Estimate Actual Variance
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000
(24
Total Capital Contribution 28 826 4 643 183)
Decrease in Capital Contribution is mainly attributable to the following:
Deferrals of projects to 2009-10 and beyond:
Albany Waterfront and Convention Centre (7 400)
Licensing Business Unit (LBU) Reform (4 200)
IT Infrastructure (1 857)
Coastal Infrastructure (600)
Accommodation Refurbishment (460)
Funding for Electronic Land Development Program (eLDP) was partly (7 084)
deferred to 2009-10 ($3.198M) with the balance being reduced as a result of
change to Government priorities
Wanneroo Revitalisation Project and Koondoola Revitalisation project were (2 369)
changed from capital projects to recurrent projects as per advice from
Department of Treasury and Finance (DTF) in relation to expensed capital
projects
(iv) Significant variances between actuals for 2008 and 2009 – Capital
contribution
2009 2008
Actual Actual Variance
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000
(29
Total Capital Contribution 4 643 33 658 015)
Decrease in Capital Contribution is mainly due to the following:
Repayment of borrowings in 2007-08 (12 455)
Decrease in funding for Licensing Business Unit Reform as a result of (5 764)
deferral to 2009-10
Wanneroo Revitalisation project funded from Capital contribution in 2007-08 (5 700)
Accommodation refurbishment in 2008 ( Public Transport Centre, Essex (3 131)
Street, Fremantle and Sheffield House)
Decrease in IT Infrastructure funding (1 497)
Decrease in funding for Electronic Land Development Program (eLDP) (1 159)
Funding for Minor Works in 2008-09 962
163
37 Explanatory statement (continued)
(v) Significant variances between estimate and actual for 2009, and actuals
for 2008 and 2009 –Total administered transactions
2009 2008
Actual Actual Variance
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Amount provided for administered grants, subsidies
and other transfer payment 437 437 -
No variance explanation required:
(vi) Significant variances between estimate and actual for 2009, and actuals
for 2008 and 2009 –Administered income
2009 2009
Estimate Actual Variance
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Administered income 1 473
606 889 449 866 560
The significant items comprising the variance were:
The estimate for Stamp Duty on motor vehicle 478 704
registrations is reported by the Department of Treasury
and Finance (DTF). The collections are made through
the licensing centres and transferred to DTF
Third party insurance surcharge collected on behalf of 319 369
Insurance Commission WA not reflected in the budget
for the department
Increase in Motor Vehicle Licence Fees is due to growth 25 800
in the number of registered vehicles combined with
increases in fees for light and heavy vehicles.
Land related income higher than expected 19 641
Land Sales on behalf of other agencies not included in 18 477
the budget papers
Collection of Interstate Licence Fees and Maritime Fees 7 129
at Licensing Centres were not included in budget papers
Additional revenue for the State's contribution to the 3 257
design and construction of the Athletics facility under the
Perry Lakes Redevelopment Project
Increase in some Speed and Red Light Traffic (5 011)
Infringement Fines offset by a lower than anticipated
acquisition and deployment of cameras
164
37 Explanatory statement (continued)
(vi) Significant variances between estimate and actual for 2009, and actuals
for 2008 and 2009 –Administered income (continued)
2009 2008
Actual Actual Variance
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000
1 473 1 455
449 547 17 902
The significant items comprising the variance were:
Increase in Motor Vehicle Licence revenue attributable to the record vehicle 49 203
sales
Increase in the collection of 3rd Party Motor Vehicle Insurance revenue as a 31 141
result of growth in the number of motor vehicles
The increase in revenue from Motor Vehicle Recording Fee attributable to 5 868
the increase in the growth in the number of motor vehicles
Recognition of land held for sale on behalf of other agencies was greater 5 681
than anticipated
Increase to Motor Drivers Licence renewals primarily due to Motor Drivers 3 893
Licence renewals being dependent upon the time period chosen at the last
renewal. Motor Driver Licence renewals are at the commencement of a 5
year cycle and therefore the number of driver licences expiring in this period
has increased marginally.
Increase in revenue for the State's contribution to the design and 2 583
construction of the Athletics Facility in accordance with the 2008-09 Capital
Works Program.
Increase in Speed and Red Light Traffic Infringement Fines primarily a result 1 000
of increase to fines and penalties partially offset by a slight decrease in the
number of infringements processed.
Increases in revenue are partially offset by :
Decrease in stamp duty on vehicles primarily a result of changes to the (67 434
stamp duty thresholds for light vehicles resulting in reduced stamp duty )
payable for vehicles in the $20,000 to $50,000 market range.
Reduced land related income as a result of lower market activity (14 870)
165
(vii) Authorisations to expend in advance of appropriation
Authorisation has been given to expend $10.776 million in advance of appropriation.
This comprise the following:
Salary Increases as a result of the PSGA wage agreement 4 663
LPG Subsidy Scheme 4 434
Support for Fremantle Port Rail Service 3 500
Leased Accommodation and Facility Management due to increased rentals 3 170
and associated facility management costs
Change of funding source for Koondoola Revitalisation and Wanneroo 1 785
Revitalisation from Equity Contribution to Recurrent (Appropriation)
Esperance Lead and Nickel Clean up and Recovery Project 1 050
Property Asset Clearing House as per EERC Decision 17 March 2009 260
3% Government Initiated Efficiency Dividend (3 773)
Transfer of recurrent funding to Capital (2 130)
Deferral of North Greenbushes Inter modal Terminal Facility and Revitalised (1 287)
Rail Service to 2009-10
Deferral of Administration costs for Owner Driver (Contracts and Disputes) (405)
Bill to 2009-10 and out years
Deferral of Wanneroo Revitalisation project to 2009-10 (285)
Savings from Media, Marketing and Advertising (206)
166
38 Financial instruments
(a) Financial risk management objectives and policies
Financial instruments held by the Department are cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and
cash equivalents, Treasurer‟s advances and receivables and payables. Accounts of the Public
Ledger and agency special purpose accounts make up the Public Bank Account. The Department
has limited exposure to financial risks. The Department‟s overall risk management program focuses
on managing the risks identified below.
Credit risk
Credit risk arises when there is the possibility of the Department‟s receivables defaulting on their
contractual obligations resulting in financial loss to the Department. The maximum exposure to
credit risk at balance sheet date in relation to each class of recognised financial assets is the gross
carrying amount of those assets inclusive of any provisions for impairment, as shown in the table at
Note 38(c) Financial instruments disclosures and note 20 Receivables. Credit risk associated with
the Department‟s financial assets is minimal because the main receivable is the amounts receivable
for services (holding account). For receivables other than government, the Department trades only
with recognised, creditworthy third parties. The Department has policies in place to ensure that
sales of products and services are made to customers with an appropriate credit history. In addition,
receivable balances are monitored on an ongoing basis with the result that the Department‟s
exposure to bad debts is minimal. There are no significant concentrations of credit risk at the
balance sheet date.
Allowance for impairment of financial assets is calculated based on objective evidence such as
observable data indicating changes in client credit ratings. For financial assets that are either past
due or impaired, refer to Note 38(c) Financial instruments disclosures and Note 20 Receivables.
Liquidity risk
The Department is exposed to liquidity risk through its trading in the normal course of business.
Liquidity risk arises when the Department is unable to meet its financial obligations as they fall due.
The Department has appropriate procedures to manage cash flows including drawdowns of
appropriations by monitoring forecast cash flows to ensure that sufficient funds are available to meet
its commitments.
Market risk
Market risk is the risk that changes in market prices such as foreign exchange rates and interest
rates will affect the Department‟s income or the value of its holdings of financial instruments.
The Department does not trade in foreign currency and is not materially exposed to other price risks
(for example, equity securities or commodity prices changes). Other than as detailed in the interest
rate sensitivity analysis table at note 38(c), The Department is not exposed to interest rate risk
because apart from minor amounts of restricted cash, all other cash and cash equivalents and
restricted cash are non-interest bearing, and have no borrowings other than the Treasurer‟s
advance (non-interest bearing).
167
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
38 Financial instruments (continued)
(b) Categories of Financial Instruments
In addition to cash, the carrying amounts of each of the following categories of
financial assets and financial liabilities at the balance sheet date are as follows
Financial Assets
Cash and cash equivalents 39 633 31 900
Restricted cash and cash equivalents 20 369 17 024
Loans and receivables (i) 3 944 6 372
Amounts receivable for services 116 587 101 584
180 533 156 880
Financial Liabilities
Payables 9 449 4 727
9 449 4 727
(i) The amount of loans and receivables excludes GST recoverable
from the ATO (statutory receivable).
168
38 Financial instruments (continued)
(c) Financial instrument disclosures
Credit Risk and Interest Rate Risk Exposures
The following tables disclose the Department‟s maximum exposure to credit risk, interest rate exposures and the ageing analysis of financial
assets. The Department‟s maximum exposure to credit risk at the balance sheet date is the carrying amount of the financial assets as shown
below. The table discloses the ageing of financial assets that are past due but not impaired and impaired financial assets. The table is based on
information provided to senior management of the Department.
The Department does not hold any collateral as security or other credit enhancements relating to the financial assets it holds.
The Department does not hold any financial assets that had to have their terms renegotiated that would have otherwise resulted in them being
past due or impaired.
169
Interest rate exposures and ageing analysis of financial assets
Interest rate
Past due but not impaired
exposure
Weight Variabl Impaire
ed e Non More d
Averag
e
effectiv Carryin Financi
e g interest interest Up to 3 3-12 1-2 2-3 3-4 4-5 than 5 al
interest
rate Amount rate bearing months months years years years years years assets
% $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Financial assets
2009
Cash and cash equivalents 5.38 39 633 16 394 23 239 - - - - - - - -
Restricted cash and cash
equivalents 5.38 20 369 15 092 5 277 - - - - - - - -
Receivables (i) 3 944 - 3 944 2 049 - - - - - - -
Amounts receivable for 116 116
services 587 - 587 - - - - - - - -
180 149
533 31 486 047 2 049 - - - - - - -
2008
Cash and cash equivalents 6.91 31 900 10 281 21 619 - - - - - - - -
Restricted cash and cash
equivalents 6.91 17 024 13 049 3 975 - - - - - - - -
Receivables (i) 6 372 - 6 372 1 708 870 389 - - - - -
Amounts receivable for 101 101
services 584 - 584 - - - - - - - -
156 133
880 23 330 550 1 708 870 389 - - - - -
(i) The amount of receivables excludes GST recoverable from the ATO (statutory receivable).
170
38 Financial instruments (continued)
(c) Financial instrument disclosures (continued)
Liquidity Risk
The following table details the contractual maturity analysis for financial liabilities. The contractual maturity amounts are representative of the
undiscounted amounts at the balance sheet date. The table includes both interest and principal cash flows. An adjustment has been made where
material.
Interest rate exposures and maturity analysis of financial liabilities
Interest rate Maturity dates
exposure
Weighted Variable Non Adjustment Total More
Average
effective Carrying interest interest For Nominal Up to 3 3-12 1-2 2-3 3-4 4-5 than 5
interest rate Amount rate bearing Discounting Amount months months years years years years years
% $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Financial
liabilities
2009
Payables 9 449 - 9 449 - - - - - - - - -
9 449 - 9 449 - - - - - - - - -
2008
Payables 4 727 - 4 727 - - - - - - - - -
4 727 - 4 727 - - - - - - - - -
The amounts disclosed are the contractual undiscounted cash flows of each class of financial liabilities.
(ii) The amount of receivables excludes GST recoverable from the ATO (statutory receivable).
171
38 Financial instruments (continued)
Interest rate sensitivity analysis
The following table represents a summary of the interest rate
sensitivity of the Department‟s financial assets and liabilities at the
balance sheet date on the surplus for the period and equity for a 1%
change in interest rates. It is assumed that the change in interest
rates is held constant throughout the reporting period.
Carryin
g -1% Change +1% Change
amoun
t Profit Equity Profit Equity
2009 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Financial
assets
Cash assets 16 394 (164) (164) 164 164
Restricted cash
assets 15 092 (151) (151) 151 151
31 486 (315) (315) 315 315
Carryin
g -1% Change +1% Change
amoun
t Profit Equity Profit Equity
2008 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Financial
assets
Cash assets 10 281 ( 103) ( 103) 103 103
Restricted cash
assets 13 049 ( 130) ( 130) 130 130
23 330 ( 233) ( 233) 233 233
172
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
39 Remuneration of senior officers
The number of senior officers, whose total of fees, salaries, superannuation, non-monetary
benefits and other benefits for the financial year, fall within the following bands are:
2009 2008
$ No. No.
0 - 10 000 1 -
10 000 - 20 000 2 -
30 001 - 40 000 1 -
60 001 - 70 000 - -
70 001 - 80 000 - 1
90 001 - 100 000 - 1
100 001 - 110 000 2 -
140 001 - 150 000 - -
150 001 - 160 000 - -
160 001 - 170 000 1 -
180 001 - 190 000 - 1
220 001 - 230 000 - 2
280 001 - 290 000 - 1
350 001 - 370 000 1 -
The total remuneration of senior officers is 810 1 087
The total remuneration includes the superannuation expense incurred by the Department in
respect of senior officers.
No senior officers are members of the Pension Scheme.
40 Remuneration of Auditor
Remuneration payable to the Auditor General for the financial year
is as follows:
Auditing the accounts, financial statements and performance
indicators 262 250
The expense is included at Note 11 Other expenses
173
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
41 Jointly controlled assets
The following represents the Department's 50% ownership interest
in the Marine Operations Centre with the Department of Fisheries.
The jointly controlled assets are included in the financial
statements.
Non current assets
Property, plant, equipment, vehicles and vessels 3 604 1 759
Infrastructure 177 188
Total assets 3 781 1 947
174
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
42 Special purpose accounts
The following Statements of Receipts and Payments are provided in
accordance with Treasurer‟s Instruction 1101A Financial Reporting
by Departments.
Dampier to Bunbury Natural Gas Pipeline Account
Opening balance 29 719 30 284
Receipts:
Fees 3 342 1 453
Payments:
Administration (1 433) ( 1 007)
Easement rights (5 486) ( 1 011)
(6 919) ( 2 018)
Closing balance 26 142 29 719
This Account holds funds received pursuant to section 45(2) of the Dampier to Bunbury
Pipeline Act 1997 for application in accordance with section 45(5) of that Act.
Deposits
Opening balance 1 566 1 366
Receipts:
Deposits - Keys 13 11
Deposits - Bonds 289 343
Deposits – Motor vehicle dealer plates 6 8
Deposits - Multi Purpose Taxi plates 7 25
Interest - 79
315 466
Payments:
Refunds - Keys (4) ( 5)
Refunds - Bonds (229) ( 245)
Refunds - Multi Purpose Taxi plates (34) ( 16)
(267) ( 266)
Closing balance 1 614 1 566
This Account holds deposits for the issue of keys to boat owners to access the harbour
pens, performance bonds, motor vehicle dealer plates and Multi Purpose Taxi Plate
deposits. These monies are held in a private trustee capacity, and in accordance with
Treasurer‟s Instruction 1101A Financial Reporting by Departments are only reported in
these notes to the financial statements.
175
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
42 Special purpose accounts (continued)
Deposits Land Applications
Opening balance 10 238 4 369
Receipts:
Deposits 3 548 5 869
Payments:
Refunds (568) -
Closing balance 13 218 10 238
This Account holds fees, rentals, deposits, premiums or performance bonds received from
applicants pending the issue of licences or leases, or the sale of Crown land or in relation to
improvements to Crown land in accordance with provisions of the Land Administration Act 1997.
Off-Road Vehicles Account
Opening balance 212 203
Receipts:
Licence and plate fees 33 29
Payments:
Grants and subsidies (10) ( 20)
Closing balance 235 212
This Account holds monies collected for the registration of vehicles under the Control of Vehicles
(Off-road areas) Act and to provide funds to meet the expenses of the Department in connection
with administration of the Act pursuant to section 43(2) of the Act.
Perry Lakes Account
Opening balance 449 35
Receipts:
Hire Charges 12 28
Interest Income 87 20
Other Revenue 393 162
Borrowings from Treasury 51 658 24 571
52 150 24 781
Payments:
(50 ( 24
Consultant Fees 443) 367)
Closing balance 2 156 449
This Account holds funds received pursuant to section 42 of the Perry Lakes Redevelopment Act
2005 for application in accordance with section 43(1) of that Act.
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
176
42 Special purpose accounts (continued)
Perth Parking Licensing Account
Opening balance 1 529 991
Receipts:
Licence fees 10 227 9 485
Payments:
Public Transport Authority for operation of the CAT bus
services (9 106) ( 8 588)
Employee costs (130) ( 91)
Supplies and services (347) ( 268)
(9 583) ( 8 947)
Closing balance 2 173 1 529
This Account was established to hold funds for the purpose of administering the Perth Parking
Management Act 1999.
Rail Heritage
Opening balance 2 2
Receipts:
Fees - -
Payments:
Grants and subsidies - -
Closing balance 2 2
This account holds funds from the sale of property transferred from Westrail to the Australian
Historical Society
Rail Safety Accreditation Account
Opening balance 1 087 898
Receipts:
Registration fees 1 426 1 233
Recoups and other receipts 8 6
1 434 1 239
Payments:
Employee costs (782) ( 579)
Superannuation (72) ( 55)
Contractors (22) ( 130)
Lease and rental (31) ( 28)
Other payments (391) ( 258)
(1 298) ( 1 050)
Closing balance 1 223 1 087
This Account was established to hold funds for the purpose of administering the Rail Safety
Act 1998.
177
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
42 Special purpose accounts (continued)
Small Craft Facilities
Opening balance 6 638 7 230
Receipts:
Boat harbour fees 3 579 4 351
Other fees - 6
Rental 7 846 6 423
Recoups 2 873 2 582
Funds for dredging 10 802 2 032
Other revenue 7 582 2 935
32 682 18 329
Payments:
Employment costs (632) ( 626)
Contractors (3 580) ( 3 608)
Administration expenses (616) ( 757)
(19
Recreational boat scheme 405) ( 4 562)
Maintenance (5 342) ( 5 798)
Power, water and sewerage (3 069) ( 2 713)
Other operating expenses (1 828) ( 857)
(34 ( 18
472) 921)
Closing balance 4 848 6 638
This account holds funds for the purpose of funding the provision,
maintenance, upgrading and management of small craft facilities.
Sport & Recreational Athletics Facilities Fund
Opening balance 6 616 6 189
Receipts:
Contributions from State Government 5 985 3 402
5985 3 402
Payments:
(11
Contractors 363) (2 975)
Closing balance 1 238 6 616
This Account holds funds received for the design and construction
of the athletics facilities as defined in Section 12(1) of the Perry
Lakes Redevelopment Act.
178
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
42 Special purpose accounts (continued)
Taxi Fare Evasion Recoupment Account
Opening balance - -
Receipts:
Fees 2 -
Payments:
Grants and subsidies (2) -
Closing balance - -
The purpose of this Account is to reimburse taxi drivers with monies
collected from passengers who failed to pay their fare.
Taxi Industry Development Account
Opening balance 8 933 2 339
Receipts:
Licence fees 8 820 10 435
Interest 667 229
9 487 10 664
Payments:
Consultants' fees (784) ( 539)
Other expenses (4 571) ( 3 531)
(5 355) ( 4 070)
Closing balance 13 065 8 933
The purpose of this Account is to hold funds received by the
Department for the purposes of the Taxi Act 1994.
Receipts in suspense
Opening balance 3 136 1 900
Receipts credited to suspense account 2 199 2 348
Receipts transferred from suspense account (1 911) ( 1 112)
Closing balance 3 424 3 136
Pursuant to section 26 (2) of the Financial Management Act, the
purpose of this Account is to hold funds pending identification of the
purpose for which these monies were received.
179
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
42 Special purpose accounts (continued)
War Service Land Settlement
Opening balance 5 -
Receipts:
Deposits 559 839
Payments:
Remittances to the Commonwealth (560) ( 834)
Closing balance 4 5
This Account holds funds pending transfer to the Commonwealth
Department of Primary Industry.
43 Supplementary financial information
Write-offs
During the financial year, assets valued at $85,000 (2008: $77,000)
were written off the Department‟s asset register under the authority
of:
The Accountable Authority 85 77
The Minister for Planning and Infrastructure - -
85 77
Losses through theft, defaults and other causes
Losses of public moneys and public, and other property
through theft
or default - -
Amounts recovered - -
180
44 Indian Ocean Territories Service Level Agreement
The provision of services to the Indian Ocean territories are recouped
from the Commonwealth government.
Opening balance 29 37
Receipts 187 171
Payments (180) ( 179)
Closing balance 36 29
181
45 Administered expenses and income
Land accessibility Integrated land
Transport system Motor vehicle planning tenure and transport
planning and registration and driver and policy policy General – Not
Expenses regulation licensing services development development Attributed Total
2009 2008 2009 2009 2008 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Cost of land sold - - - - - - - - 40 399 53 170 40 399 53 170
Expenses under the Dampier to
Bunbury Pipeline Act 1997 - - - - - - 1 421 1 912 - - 1 421 1 912
Expenses under the Perry Lakes
Redevelopment Act 2005 - - - - 3 517 1 620 - - - - 3 517 1 620
Share of joint venture expenses
(refer to note 48 (iii)) - - - - 346 19 - - - - 346 19
Other expenses 2 - 1 722 - - - - - 96 - 1 820 -
Total administered expenses 2 - 1 722 - 3 863 1 639 1 421 1 912 40 495 53 170 47 503 56 721
Revenues
For transfer to the Consolidated
Account or Agencies
Appropriations for transfer to the:
Western Australian Coastal
Shipping Commission 437 400 - - - - - - - - 437 400
Conservancy 292 279 - - - - - - - - 292 279
Infringements
Cannabis infringement fines - - 56 65 - - - - - - 56 65
Plate and transfer
infringements - - 6 254 6 119 - - - - - - 6 254 6 119
Speed and red light
infringement fines - - 66 374 66 145 - - - - - - 66 374 66 145
Final demand fees - traffic
infringements - - 1 437 1 463 - - - - - - 1 437 1 463
Dealer Plates - - 230 228 - - - - - - 230 228
Motor drivers' licences - - 35 211 31 318 - - - - - - 3 5211 31 318
Motor vehicle registrations
182
46 Administered expenses and income (continued)
Land
Transport Motor vehicle accessibility Integrated land
system registration and planning tenure and transport
planning and driver licensing and policy policy General – Not
Revenues (continued) regulation services development development Attributed Total
2009 2008 2009 2009 2008 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000 $ 000
Motor vehicle registrations - - 457 636 408 433 - - - - - - 457 636 408 433
Recording fees - - 39 875 34 007 - - - - - - 39 875 34 007
Stamp duty - - 319 369 386 804 - - - - - - 319 369 386 804
Third party motor vehicle
insurance premiums - - 478 704 447 563 - - - - - - 478 704 447 563
Collection of interstate licensing
fees - - 1 719 1 431 - - - - - - 1 719 1 431
Firearm licence fees - - 3 203 3 141 - - - - - - 3 203 3 141
Land sales - - - - - - - - 40 399 53 170 40 399 53 170
Lease rental - - - - - - - - 9 573 8 710 9 573 8 710
1 410 1 386 1 449
729 679 068 717 - - - - 49 972 61 880 1 460 769 276
Other
Revenues under the Dampier to
Bunbury Pipeline Act 1997 - - - - - - 5 964 2 251 - - 5 964 2 251
Revenues under the Perry Lakes
Redevelopment Act 2005 - - - - 6 478 3 633 - - - - 6 478 3 633
Share of joint venture revenues
(refer to note 46 (iii)) - - - - 8 35 - - - - 8 35
Other revenue - - - - - - - - 230 352 230 352
- - - - 6 486 3 668 5 964 2 251 230 352 12 680 6 271
1 410 1 386 1 455
Total administered revenues 729 679 068 717 6 486 3 668 5 965 2 251 50 202 62 232 1 473 449 547
183
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
46 Administered assets and liabilities
Current assets
Cash 56 104 55 606
Accounts receivable (i) 12 495 28 610
Share of joint venture current assets (ii) 1 129 1 119
Total administered current assets 69 728 85 335
Non-current assets
Accounts receivable - 1 152
4 815 4 691
Land, at fair value (iii) 123 338
Easements, at fair value (iii) 12 598 4 283
Construction in progress 49 218 18 797
Share of joint venture non current assets (ii) 621 705
4 877 4 716
Total administered non-current assets 560 275
4 947 4 801
Total administered assets 024 610
Current liabilities
Treasurer's Advance 2 000 2 000
Creditors 2 427 1 253
Accruals and interest payable 3 167 2 454
Income received in advance 3 975 2 064
Refundable deposits 13 218 10 238
Funds held in trust 3 10
Share of joint venture current liabilities (ii) 3 2
Total current liabilities 24 793 18 021
Non current liabilities
Interest payable 3 573 1 156
Borrowings 79 536 27 878
Total non current liabilities 83 109 29 034
Total administered liabilities 107 902 47 055
(i) Notes to the Schedules of Administered Items – Accounts receivable
Current
Receivables 26 893 30 241
Allowance for impairment of receivables (14 398) (1 631)
12 495 28 610
184
2009 2008
$ 000 $ 000
46 Administered assets and liabilities (continued)
(ii) Notes to the Schedules of Administered Items – Lease revenue
commitments
The minimum lease revenue in relation to non-cancellable operating lease rentals
contracted for at balance sheet date but not recognised as assets in the financial statements
are receivable as follows:
Within one year 9 766 9 626
Later than one year but not later than five years 31 654 31 359
Later than five years 90 381 90 553
131 801 131 538
(iii) Notes to the Schedules of Administered Items – Joint venture
The Minister has a 26% interest in a joint venture with LandCorp and the City of Bunbury to
develop, subdivide and sell land in Bunbury.
The following represents the Minister‟s interests in the joint venture operation:
Expenses
Estate expenses 3 17
Operating expenses 344 2
Share of joint venture expenses 346 19
Revenues
Interest 8 35
Share of joint venture revenues 8 35
Current assets
Cash 62 493
Work in progress 800 619
Other current assets 3 7
Share of joint venture current assets 865 1 119
Non current assets
Undeveloped land 621 705
Share of joint venture non current assets 621 705
Total share of joint venture assets 1 486 1 824
Current liabilities
Accrued expenses 3 2
Share of joint venture current liabilities 3 2
185
(iv) Notes to the Schedules of Administered Items – Land values
Land is measured at fair value based on independent valuations provided by the Western
Australian Land Information Authority (Valuation Services) at 1 July 2008. The valuations
were performed during the year ended 30 June 2009 and recognised at 30 June 2009.
Fair value has been determined on the basis of current market value where an active market
exists or current use where no market exists and/or the current land use is specialised in
nature. Revaluations are made with sufficient regularity to ensure that the carrying value of
land does not differ materially from its fair value at reporting date.
Valuation Services, the Office of the Auditor General and the Department of Treasury and
Finance assessed the valuations globally to ensure that the valuations provided (as at 1 July
2008) were compliant with fair value at 30 June 2009.
Contingent liabilities
There were no contingent liabilities in relation to the Administered assets and liabilities
schedule as at 30 June 2009.
186
Key Performance Indicators
187
Certification of Key Performance Indicators
For the year ended 30 June 2009
I hereby certify that the performance indicators are based on proper records, are relevant and
appropriate for assisting users to assess the Department for Planning and Infrastructure‟s
performance, and fairly represent the performance of the Department for Planning and
Infrastructure for the financial year ended 30 June 2009.
Eric Lumsden PSM
Accountable Authority
8 September 2009
188
Department for Planning and Infrastructure Level Government
Desired Outcomes and Key Performance Indicators
The breadth and diversity of the Department for Planning and Infrastructure's (the Department)
functions and services means that the Department contributes to many of the Government‟s
strategic goals. The Department‟s most significant contributions to the Government's goals are
outlined in the tabled below.1
Department Desired
Government Goals Department Services
Outcomes
An accessible and safe 1. Transport System Planning and
Outcomes Based Service transport system. Regulation
Delivery Road users that meet
Greater focus on achieving established vehicle 2. Motor Vehicle Registration and
results in key service delivery standards and driver Driver Licensing Services
areas for the benefit of all competencies.
Western Australians.
Accessibility to serviced 3. Land Accessibility Planning, Tenure
land and infrastructure and Policy Development
State Building – Major
Projects Integration of land and
Building strategic transport systems that 4. Integrated Land and Transport
infrastructure that will create facilitates economic Policy Development
jobs and underpin Western development.
Australia‟s long-term
economic development.
1
This Better Planning Better Futures framework was abolished during 2008-09 and replaced with new
Government goals. The Department is currently reviewing its Outcome Structure and KPIs to align to new
Government goals for anticipated commencement in the 2010-11 year.
189
Department Level Government Desired Outcome: An accessible and safe transport
system
Effectiveness Indicator: Number of public transport journeys
per capita per year
The Department is the lead agency in the planning of strategic transport routes and infrastructure.
These projects increase the accessibility and attractiveness of public transport for commuters and
facilitates increased patronage of the public as opposed to private forms of transport. This, in
turn, creates benefits through reducing congestion, improving air quality and improving amenity in
many areas. In addition to planning transport routes and facilities to improve accessibility, the
Department is responsible for the TravelSmart program, which aims to shift travel behaviour into
more sustainable forms of transport.
Bus and rail operators supply passenger counts for each financial year to the Public Transport
Authority. The Department calculates public transport journeys per capita using Australian Bureau
of Statistics (ABS) estimated resident population for the Perth statistical division plus the City of
Mandurah.
2005- 2006- 2007- 2008- 2008-
Reasons for
06 07 08 09 09
Significant Variance
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual
Number of public A significant increase
(10.4%) from 2007-08 is due
transport journeys 46 46.7 48.9 49 54 to the introduction of seniors
per capita per year free travel in April 2009.
190
Effectiveness People in the Metropolitan Region that live
Indicator: within ten minutes of a major public
transport route.
In order for transport systems to be accessible, they must be located within a reasonable distance
of the commuter‟s dwelling. In this context, accessibility refers to both train stations and bus stops
that are within 10 minutes travel time. Travel mode includes pedestrian, bicycle and car trips. For
bus stops the „ten minutes‟ is on foot (ten minutes is usually recognised as the pedestrian
threshold for trips) where for railway stations the ten minutes is by car2.
To calculate this indicator, modeling techniques are used to create buffers around bus stops and
train stations within the Metropolitan Region. The Metropolitan Region is inclusive of the Perth
and Peel regions. The population within the buffer is determined by evenly distributing across
urban-zoned land the associated ABS Census Collector Districts3 population.
An increase in the percentage of people living within ten minutes by foot, bicycle or car of a major
transport route would indicate enhanced accessibility.
Reasons for
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09
Significant
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual
Variance
People in the Metropolitan
Region that live within ten
minutes of a major public
transport route:
- Within a 10 minute walk
90% 89% 89% 91% 89.25%
to a bus stop
- Within a 10 minute ride
31% 29% 36% 34% 36.41%
to a railway station
- Within a 10 minute car
80% 80.08%
travel to a railway station 66% 62% 74%
2
As per Liveable Neighbourhoods – 2004 – Edition 3
3
Census Collector District population figures used in calculating the 2006/07 indicator are based on
„Census Usual Place of Residence‟ in the 2006 Census and not „Census Place of Enumeration‟ as utilised
in calculating the 2005/06 indicator from the 2001 Census, therefore the figures are not comparable.
191
Effectiveness Indicator: Taxi User Subsidy Scheme (TUSS)
applications rejected contrary to the entitlement guidelines
The Department administers the Taxi Users Subsidy Scheme (TUSS) on behalf of government.
The scheme‟s objective is to allow people with severe permanent disabilities, who are unable to
use public bus transport, access to taxis. The scheme subsidises travel by taxi for eligible
members through provision of a 75% subsidy for persons travelling in or with a wheelchair and
50% for others to a maximum of $25.00 per trip, at a cost in excess of $6.5 million per annum.
There is no restriction on the number of trips that TUSS members can take under the Scheme,
which currently has in excess of 20,000 members.
TUSS is governed by eligibility criteria that restricts membership to persons with severe mobility
disability, severe vision disability (legal blindness) and severe cognitive/intellectual disability.
A daily review of rejected applications is undertaken and any queries reassessed against the
entitlement guidelines. The total number of applications found to be rejected contrary to the
entitlement guidelines are divided by the total number of applications that have been found
ineligible for the scheme. The resulting figure is expressed as a percentage.
The method used to determine the number of applications rejected contrary to the guidelines is an
audit of all applications that have been rejected by the independent Assessor. This provides a
confidence level of 100% that applications are not being rejected contrary to the guidelines.
Reasons for
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09
Significant
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual
Variance
TUSS applications
rejected contrary to 1.11% 1.64% 0% 1.08%
2.5%
the Entitlement
Guidelines.
192
Effectiveness Number of serious rail accidents per million
Indicator: train kilometres.
Through administration of the Rail Safety Act 1998 (the Act), the Department is responsible for
promoting the safety of the rail transport system. In this regulatory scheme, where railway
managers are accountable for rail safety, the Department:
Accredits railway owners and operators to construct, operate and maintain railways where
they have met requirements in the Act including:
o demonstrating the competence and capacity to meet the requirements of Australian
Standard AS4292 Railway Safety Management, Part 1: General and Interstate
requirements;
o having a comprehensive safety management plan that identifies significant potential
safety risks; and
o an appropriate system to address those risks.
Monitors performance of accredited railways to ensure they are complying with the terms of
their accreditation and their approved safety management system and to achieve
continuous development and improvement in railway safety.
A „serious‟ rail accident is one consistent with a Category A „notifiable occurrence‟ as described in
the Rail Safety Regulations 1999, namely:
An accident or incident involving the death of a person.
An accident or incident involving serious personal injury to a person (including a passenger,
other member of the public, railway employee or trespasser) that results in admission to
hospital.
A derailment of a train or rolling stock on a running line.
A collision, including:
o A collision between trains, other rolling stock, vehicles or obstructions or buffer stops
on running lines (including a collision as a result of a vehicle loading irregularity or an
unsecured door); and
o A collision involving a train with either a road vehicle or a person at a level crossing,
including a pedestrian crossing.
A fire affecting rail infrastructure or rolling stock that endangers or could endanger the safe
operation of a railway.
An explosion affecting rail infrastructure or rolling stock.
A train kilometre is the distance travelled by a train over one kilometre of track.
The indicator is calculated by dividing the total number of Category A occurrences by the total
number of train kilometres travelled (expressed in millions) managed by accredited operators in
Western Australia.
A reduction in the number of occurrences or a continuance of a zero return would indicate that the
safety outcome is being met on rail transport and gives users reasonable confidence that the rail
system they use is safe.
193
The result is economic growth and development through the promotion of rail as a safe passenger
and freight carrier connecting commuters and goods to the desired destination for business or
personal purposes. Social and economic benefits are also accrued through avoiding the high
costs associated with rail accidents.
Reasons for
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09
Significant
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual
Variance
Number of serious rail
accidents per million 3.99 3.36 4.23 4.00 3.90
train kilometres.
194
Effectiveness Registered recreational vessels involved in
Indicator: an incident (accident) on the water.
Western Australia‟s temperate climate and unique marine environment entice an estimated
250,000 people to make recreational use of the State's waterways each year. The Department
takes a lead role in ensuring the safety of the State's mariners through:
setting standards for recreational vessels and registering only those that meet legislative
requirements;
requiring recreational mariners to meet basic safety competencies through the
Recreational Skipper‟s Tickets (compulsory from 1 April 2008);
maintaining marine charts and signs to promote safe navigation and warn of hazards;
responding to oil spills and other pollutants;
placing and maintaining navigational aids (NAVAIDS); and
educating and informing mariners on marine safety matters.
Under the Navigable Waters Regulations 1958, all vessels that have a motor or have the capacity
to have a motor fitted, must be registered to operate on navigable waters in WA. In addition, it is
a requirement under the Western Australian Marine Act 1982 for people to report any accident or
incident that results in serious injury or death, or the vessel being damaged enough to make it
unseaworthy or unsafe.
The data for this indicator is sourced from the Department‟s recreational vessel registration and
the marine incidents database and is calculated by dividing the number of incidents by the
number of registered recreational vessels (expressed as a percentage).
A reduction in the percentage of registered recreational vessels experiencing incidents would
indicate that the safety outcome is being improved in relation to recreational boating.
2008- Reasons for
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09
09 Significant
Actual Actual Actual Target
Actual Variance
Registered
recreational vessels
involved in an 0.07% 0.1% 0.09% 0.1% 0.09%
incident (accident)
on the water.
195
Effectiveness Commercial vessels surveyed under the
Indicator: Marine Act 1982 involved in an incident
(accident) on the water
All commercial vessels in WA are subject to survey to ensure that they meet minimum standards
for construction and equipment safety before they can begin operating and are surveyed annually
to ensure safety and maintenance standards are maintained (this excludes vessels certified as
Class 4 Hire and Drive vessels).
Under the Western Australian Marine Act 1982, all accidents or incidents involving commercial
vessels that result in serious injury or death, or cause damage to the vessel rendering it
unseaworthy or unsafe must be reported. A commercial vessel must hold a current certificate of
survey to show that it meets national and international maritime standards to continue to operate.
The information for this indicator is derived from the Department‟s commercial vessel database
and the marine incidents database and is calculated by dividing the number of incidents by the
number of commercial vessel holding current survey certificates (expressed as a percentage).
A reduction in the percentage of commercial vessels experiencing incident would indicate that the
safety outcome is being improved in relation to commercial activities.
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09 Reasons for
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual Significant Variance
The number of incidents
Commercial vessels have fallen from 91 in 2007-
surveyed under the 08 to 55 in 2008-09
Marine Act 1982 3.40% 5.40% 5.15% 4.0% 3.26% indicating that the
involved in an Department's safety
incident (accident) initiatives are having a
positive effect on
on the water commercial mariners.
196
EFFICIENCY KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
Service 1: Transport system planning and regulation
Transport system planning and regulation is designed to improve accessibility and safety of the
transport system for all Western Australians through:
Transport planning:
- integration between and within transport modes;
- managing heavy vehicle freight movement to major industrial and intermodal sites;
- increasing accessibility to a reasonable level of transport services for all individuals,
businesses and communities; and
- encouraging sustainable choices through programs such as TravelSmart and Cycling
promotions.
Transport regulation:
- provision and management of infrastructure, including small craft facilities and marine
navigation aids, to maintain safe and accessible transport operations;
- setting competencies / standards and monitoring compliance for operators, vehicles and
vessels in the taxi, omnibus and maritime industries;
- developing policies, standards and guidelines for rail safety regulation, accrediting rail
owners and rail operators in accordance with relevant standards, and ensuring rail owners
and operators comply with the terms of their accreditation;
- developing and implementing policies and strategies to facilitate safe navigation and safe
use of the waters of the State;
- maintaining effective contingency response strategies and mechanisms to combat marine
transport emergencies and marine environmental pollution incidents;
- regulation of jetties through licensing;
- marine and transport related data collection, analysis and dissemination; and
- provision of cartographic information services.
197
Key Efficiency 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09 Reasons for
Indicators Actual Actual Actual Target Actual Significant Variance
Total costs for this indicator
have fallen from $4,425,919
Cost per in 2007-08 to $3,346,937 in
registered vessel 2008-09 together with a 4,426
$47.18 $51.10 $48.01 $44.04 $35.40 increase in vessel numbers.
of maritime
disaster response Improved cost allocation
methods are the major
contributing factor.
Significant additional
employment costs were
incurred during the year due
to a 4.5% salary increase
granted in February 2008 but
not paid until September
Average survey 2008, therefore including
cost per more than 6 months back pay
$1,829.25 $1,942.70 $2 124 $2,479 $2,749 in this fiscal year. The next
commercial
vessel 5% increase was granted in
February 2009. Specified
Callings salary increases for
the Business Units Marine
Surveyors were also granted
during this time.
The steep increase in costs
impacting this KPI are the
result of a rolling program
across all business units of
the Department implementing
comprehensive
costing/pricing models. The
accurate re-assignment of
expenses has for this KPI
Average cost per raised costs. Having
private established a new
benchmark, the next step was
recreational $54.02 $52.34 $59.99 $49.82 $79.83 to compare this 08/09 result
vessel against 07/08 using the same
registration costs allocation. However,
direct comparisons are not
possible because the new
cost allocation method has
not been applied to previous
financial years due to the
significant effort/costs
involved. The 09/10 results
will become available for
comparison and analysis.
198
The variance is due to a
change in the scope of the
TravelSmart program from 3
months of support to assist
households to reduce their
travel demand, to 12 months
of support for households to
manage their demand for
travel, but also for water,
Average cost per energy and waste. The
change in scope has resulted
household
in a four fold increase in the
contacted under $85.58 $82.19 $105.98 $97.95 $219.47 intensity of the program. The
the Travelsmart strategic rationale for
scheme changing the program scope
was adopted as a Garnaut
Review Case Study. In
addition, there has been a
realignment of KPI costs
between TravelSmart and the
Integrated Land Transport
Policy Development
programs.
The variance is due to an
overall increase in the costs
Average associated with administering
the Taxi User Subsidy
administrative
Scheme, especially salaries,
cost per Taxi $1.30 $1.11 $1.02 $1.01 $1.15 computer support services
User Subsidy and the use of contract
processed personnel. There has also
been a slight decrease in the
number of trips undertaken.
Average cost per
vessel $28,941 $33,206 $22,067 $20,137 $20,215
accommodated
A realignment of indirect
Cycling grant costs associated with
administration administering the grants was
cost as a undertaken after the 2008-09
19.37% 20.04% 25.18% 16.97% 27.18% target was set resulting in a
percentage of the
total value of 10.21% variance between
grants the 2008-09 target and the
actual.
The shipping service has
Average tonnage been significantly impacted
by the economic downturn in
per North West 2,500 1,838 2,880 3,050 1,975 the resources industry in the
shipping trip North West leading to
reduced tonnages per trip.
199
DPI Level Government Desired Outcome: Road users that meet established vehicle standards
and driver competencies
Effectiveness Vehicle examinations completed in accordance
Indicator: with the Australian Design Rules assessed by
independent audit.
The Road Traffic Act 1974 confers on the Department responsibility for registering the State's
vehicles. Vehicles must be registered before they may lawfully be used on the road. Registration
is conferred only where a vehicle is deemed roadworthy (passed examination).
This indicator measures the extent to which vehicle examinations are conducted according to
processes designed to establish levels of roadworthiness pursuant to the provisions of the Road
Traffic Act 1974 and related regulations.
The Road Traffic (Vehicle Standards) Rules 2002 detail specific requirements for vehicles,
including dimensions, braking, lighting and emissions - all of which must conform to the Australian
Design Rules (as at the date of manufacture of the vehicle). The Department's Vehicle
Examiners and Authorised Inspection Station personnel are registered motor vehicle mechanics
and trained to examine vehicles in accordance with the Australian Design Rules. The Motor
Vehicle "Certificate of Inspection" form (MR1) is used to record details of each vehicle
examination.
To measure this indicator, a sample of completed MR1 forms was audited by an independent
auditor. The number of forms that pass the criteria were counted and divided by the total number
of forms audited. The results were then expressed as a percentage.
The simple random sampling method was used to determine the applications selected. One
hundred Motor Vehicle Examination forms were selected at random for each of the periods July-
September, October-December, January-March and April-June, giving a total random sample for
the year of 400 out of a total of 115,963 examinations conducted4. This sample size provides a
confidence interval of approximately +/- 4.89 at the 95% confidence level.
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09 Reasons for
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual Significant Variance
Refined record management
Vehicle processes for locating source
examinations data and better alignment of
completed in data relevance to the
accordance with outcomes of the indicator
82% 84% 89% 100% 99% have seen significant
the Australian
improvements.
Design Rules
assessed by
independent audit.
4
Total number of vehicle examinations relates to vehicle examinations that received a pass
result.
200
Effectiveness Driver licenses issued that comply with the
Indicator: Graduated Driver Training and Licensing
system assessed by independent audit.
The Road Traffic Act 1974 (the Act) confers on the Department responsibility for licensing the
State's drivers. Section 16 of the Road Traffic (Authorisation To Drive) Regulations 2008 details
the requirements prescribed under section 42(2)(c) of the Act. Drivers must demonstrate that
they are competent to drive a vehicle through passing theoretical and practical tests, completing
the prescribed hours of supervised driving and passing a computerised hazard perception test.
This indicator measures the extent to which licensing of drivers is conducted according to
processes designed to establish levels of competence pursuant to the provisions of the Act and
related regulations.
A sample of all driver licences issued under the Graduated Driver Training and Licensing System
(GDTLS) were reviewed by an independent auditor and the number of licences that complied with
the above criteria were recorded and divided by the total number of licences assessed. The
resulting figure was then expressed as a percentage.
The simple random sampling method was used to determine the applications selected. One
hundred Motor Driver Licences issued were selected at random for each of the periods July-
September, October-December, January-March and April-June, giving a total random sample for
the year of 400. out of a total 27,535 licences issued.5 This sample size provides a confidence
interval of approximately +/- 4.88 at the 95% confidence level.
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09 Reasons for
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual Significant Variance
Driver licences Whilst the outcome shows
issued that comply an improvement on the
with the Graduated previous year due to the
Driver Training and refinement of record
management procedures,
Licensing system mandatory requirements
assessed by for twenty five hours of
independent audit. 71.1% 86% 85% 100% 88.8% supervised driving and the
new six month waiting
period are the main
causes for the variance to
target. These issues are
being addressed resulting
with fewer occurrences in
the later quarters of 08/09
5
Total number of driver's licences issued relates to 'C' and 'RE' classes only.
201
EFFICIENCY KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
Service 2: Motor Vehicle Registration and Driver Licensing
Services
The Road Traffic Act 1974 confers on the Department responsibility for licensing the State's
drivers and registering vehicles. Drivers must demonstrate that they are competent to drive a
vehicle through passing theoretical and practical tests, completing the prescribed hours of
supervised driving and passing a computerised hazard perception test. Vehicles must be
registered before they may lawfully be used on the road. Registration is conferred only where a
vehicle is deemed roadworthy. This service contributes to the Agency goals through:
- setting motor vehicle standards in accordance with national and state government
requirements, examining motor vehicles for compliance with those standards and registering
and transferring compliant motor vehicles;
- setting standards and requirements within government policies for the issue of a licence to
drive on roads;
- assessing driver competency, issuing and renewing driver licences in accordance with
national and state government requirements and driver competency standards;
- maintaining a database of registered vehicles and drivers, and managing vehicle identification
numbers, to support the enforcement of road traffic and other relevant laws;
- collecting revenue for vehicle and driver licensing on behalf of other government agencies;
and
- informing and educating road users about driver licensing, vehicle registration and related
requirements.
Key Efficiency 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09 Reasons for
Indicators Actual Actual Actual Target Actual Significant Variance
Primarily variance is due
to an under spend in
Licensing expenses
including LPG Subsidy
Scheme payments,
combined with a 6.2%
increase in transactions
resulting in a 13.3%
Average cost per
decrease in unit cost.
vehicle and driver $15.69 $15.42 $15.09 $19.37 $16.80 Variance between 07-08
transaction. actual and 08-09 actual
was primarily due to
additional staff resource
costs required to maintain
and enhance customer
service delivery and
implement safety
initiatives.
202
Variance primarily due to
increased costs
associated with vehicle
Average cost per inspections by Authorised
Inspection Stations
vehicle $54.36 $48.23 $57.99 $51.13 $81.70 combined with an overall
inspection. decrease in the total
number of vehicles
inspected compared to
target.
Average cost per
driver $54.13 $51.32 $56.46 $63.59 $59.97
assessment.
Driver licence
cards issued
within 21 days of 99% 99% 99% 99% 100%
completed
application.
Vehicle
registrations
issued within 7
days of
100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
completed
applications and
payment of
appropriate fees.
203
DPI Level Government Desired Outcome: Accessibility to serviced land and infrastructure
Effectiveness Number of lots given preliminary and
Indicator: final approval
The Department seeks to provide sufficient land for housing to accommodate the anticipated
future population growth of the State. To this end, the Department plays an important role by
ensuring sufficient zoned urban land and facilitating orderly land release through structure
planning and issuing subdivision approvals throughout the State. The Department is partnered
with the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) in this process.
The Metropolitan Development Program forecasts a requirement for up to 70,000 residential lots
(final approvals) in the Perth Metropolitan Region and Peel Sector between 2006 and 2011 to
keep pace with population growth. The Department issued final approvals for 9,008 new
residential lots during 2008/09 (Perth and Peel) to the land development industry, which
decreased applications lodged and requests for final approval, and therefore supply in response
to lower levels of consumer demand. The corresponding total Statewide figure for final approvals
for residential lots was 12,179.
The Department is not the sole determinant of land availability, as, for a number of reasons, not
all preliminary approvals (which reflect a bank of developable land from which developers can
draw) go through to the final approval stage. These include external factors such as availability of
raw materials, interest rates, developer capacity and market conditions. Therefore, the
Department (via the WAPC) is only able to respond to applications lodged for preliminary and final
approval.
These measures are extracted from the Department's electronic administrative subdivision
tracking system and are published in the quarterly bulletin entitled State Lot Activity.
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09 Reasons for
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual Significant Variance
Number of lots given
preliminary and final
approval
- Residential 54,204 50,445 43,308 50,000 - 34,951 The number of lots in subdivision
55,000 applications lodged in 2008/09 was
26,119 for residential and 4,734 for
non-residential, totaling 30,853
proposed lots; a total of 9 per cent
decline compared with 2007/08. This
has translated as a decline in the
2008/09 actuals, relative to the 08/09
budget, due to declining consumer
demand given the slumped economy.
- Non-Residential 7,522 7,444 9,510 6,000- 7,714 There has been a decline in the
7,000 number of non-residential lots in
subdivision applications lodged in
2008/09, relative to the 07/08 budget,
due to declining consumer demand.
204
Effectiveness Median land price as a percentage of median
Indicator: residential property sales price
This indicator details land costs compared to median house sale prices. The Department has
some effect on median land prices by ensuring that there is sufficient stock of approved land
suitable for development or redevelopment, although the principal price determinants are supply
and demand in the market itself.
This indicator is useful because it disaggregates the price of residential land from the price of
houses. The actual for 2008/09 for the whole of Western Australia is 49.4% while the actual for
Perth is 53.3%.
Median sales prices (derived from sales information obtained from Landgate) are quoted for
houses and vacant land in the Perth Metropolitan areas and for the whole of the State in the
quarterly REIWA Market Update. This indicator is calculated by expressing the median land price
as a percentage of the median established house price for the Perth metropolitan area.
Reasons for
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09
Significant
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual
Variance
Median land price as a
percentage of median
51.2% 58.6% 58.7% 55% 53.3%
residential property sales
price
205
Effectiveness Relative Affordability of property and
Indicator: land prices
This indicator compares the cost of existing property and land prices with that of other mainland
and non-territory capital cities. Given that housing and land costs are a function of land supply, it
is reasonable to assume that relative affordability of housing and land indicate effective
management of land supply in support of economic outcomes.
This indicator measures the comparative number of weeks that a home purchaser requires to pay
off house purchase in the major capital cities. It is a function of the median house prices of each
of those cities over the average weekly earnings.
Data for this indicator sourced from the REIWA publication Market Facts March Quarter 2009 and
the Australian Economic Indicators, published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics in August
2009.
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09 Reasons for
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual Significant Variance
Relative Third Second Second Third Lowest
Average weekly earnings
affordability of lowest highest lowest highest quintile increased by $48.61 with the
property and quintile quintile quintile quintile median house price also
land prices increasing by $30,000 from
2007-08 to 2008-09.
206
Effectiveness Average lot size in the Perth
Indicator: Metropolitan Region
In addition to managing demand through timely release of land supply, the Department impacts
on the affordability through ensuring that infrastructure is optimally used.
The WA Government‟s submission to the Productivity Commission6 inquiry into first home
ownership estimated savings to the community through redirecting growth from the urban fringe to
areas of under-utilised infrastructure as $30,000 per lot. The Planning and Transport Research
Centre (PATREC)7 study found that savings of $33,000 per lot can be achieved where a
contiguous development front is maintained rather than allowing development to occur in spatially
scattered sites.
Therefore, in order for urban sprawl and its associated costs to be minimised to provide affordable
lots and to provide choice and variety, lot sizes should be reduced. DPI aims for a average lot size
of less than 565m2 in the Perth Metropolitan Region.
The figures for this measure are obtained from the WAPC publication State Lot Activity Report
(June 2009).
Reasons for
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09
Significant
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual
Variance
There has been a decline
in the number of lots
2
greater than 500 m
granted final approval.
This is considered to be
Average lot size in the market response to
the Global Financial
the Perth
560m2 532m2 509m2 518m2 482m2 Crisis (GFC) with
Metropolitan developers concentrating
Region on the more affordable
end of the market. The
target figure was
estimated prior to the full
impact of the GFC being
known.
6
Australian Government Productivity Commission, First Home Ownership – Productivity Commission
Inquiry Report, No. 28, 31 March 2004
7
PATREC is a collaboration between the four public universities of Western Australia: Curtin University of
Technology, Edith Cowan University, Murdoch University and the University of Western Australia. It
receives financial support from the Government of Western Australia through the Department for Planning
and Infrastructure and Main Roads WA.
207
Effectiveness Avoided land consumption costs
Indicator:
This is a measure of savings made through compacting residential areas rather than allowing
them to be freely dispersed and widespread. Where the avoided land consumption costs trend
upwards or remain static, the Department demonstrates success in minimising urban sprawl and
leveraging from existing infrastructure to increase affordability for consumers.
Estimated infrastructure cost savings per lot are extracted from the WAPC publication “Future
Perth: Cost of Urban Form, Perth Metropolitan Region”. This is multiplied by Final lot approvals for
2008/2009 from the WAPC publication State Lot Activity Report to arrive at indicative
infrastructure savings which represent avoided land consumption costs.
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09 Reasons for
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual Significant Variance
Avoided land $136 $115 $116 $142 $104 The slumped economic conditions
of the 08/09 gave rise to a
consumption million million million million million
weakened residential housing and
costs land market. The most resilient
component of the weakened
market has continued to be the first
home owners segment which is
more strongly focused on the more
affordable land in the Outer Sectors
of the Metropolitan Region. This
shift has decreased the
development in the Inner/Middle
Sector and therefore has reduced
the avoided land consumption
costs of development on the urban
fringe.
208
Effectiveness Determination appeals that are
Indicator: unsuccessful
The percentage of determinations made without successful applications for review provides an
indicator of the Department's effectiveness in the application of the Western Australian Planning
Commission's State Planning Framework.
Effective application of this framework delivers efficient decisions and ensures that new land is
adequately serviced. Where a determination is successfully challenged by demonstrating flaws in
the Department's application of policy, additional costs may be incurred both by the developer and
subsequently by land purchasers.
The indicator is the number of all subdivision, strata and development application determinations
made that are not successfully "reviewed', (i.e. upheld) before the State Administrative Tribunal
(SAT), expressed as a percentage of the total number of applications determined within the
reporting period.
The data shows that 16 applications for review before the SAT were upheld in 2008-09, and that
4,927 subdivisions, strata and development applications were determined.
Reasons for
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09
Significant
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual
Variance
Determination appeals
99% 99.8% 99.7% 99% 99.6%
that are unsuccessful
209
EFFICIENCY KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
Service 3: Land accessibility planning, tenure and policy
development
This service contributes to the achievement of Agency outcome accessibility to serviced land and
infrastructure through:
- ensuring that sufficient land is available for purchase for both residential and commercial
purposes;
- controlling lot sizes and therefore the costs of infrastructure required to service each lot;
- minimising delays and their attendant costs by making accurate, timely decisions on
redevelopment and subdivision proposals; and
- providing resources to the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) to enable:
the acquisition and management of properties reserved under Perth's Metropolitan Region
Scheme for important urban roads, controlled access highways, parks and recreational
reserves, special uses and major land redevelopment projects;
the disposal of surplus properties;
the management of rental properties;
other special planning projects undertaken within the Perth metropolitan area; and
the administration of Crown land tenure, pastoral leases and native title.
Key 2006- 2008- 2008-
2005-06 2007-08 Reasons for Significant
Efficiency 07 09 09
Actual Actual Variance
Indicators Actual Target Actual
During 2008-09 additional
resources were applied to clear a
backlog of statutory applications
Cost per received during the economic
subdivision boom period. The number of
applications processed was
and
$2,140.64 $1,855 $2,605 $2,667 $3,020 more than estimated, however
development an increase in the complexity of
application the applications being processed
processed together with higher staffing
costs, has resulted in an
increased cost per application
processed.
The Department is continuing its
focus on clearing a large backlog
of statutory applications as a
Statutory result of the increased demand
planning during the economic boom. These
applications applications are mostly over the
processed 62% 68% 58% 80% 56% statutory period. Also, during the
within boom period the Department was
statutory unable to recruit planners to fill
timeframes vacancies, therefore the majority
of the applications that are being
determined are over the statutory
limit.
210
There were additional salary
costs and corporate overheads in
2008-09 when compared to 2007-
08 associated with the PSGA
salary award increases and
arrears together with award
Average cost
increases for “Specified Callings”.
per policy and $86.52 $63.14 $68.27 $85.69 $80.66 In addition further costs increases
planning hour were evident due to the increased
use of professional contractors in
support of major contracts to
offset the inability to recruit
planning staff.
Town
Planning A backlog of Town Planning
Scheme Scheme (TPS) amendments
amendments eventuated due to an ongoing
(for final shortage of planning staff during
57% 54% 39% 80% 37% 2008-09. Accordingly the majority
approval)
processed of the applications determined
within non- were over the non-statutory time
statutory limit.
timeframes
Deposited
and Strata
Plans
endorsed 84% 92% 99% 90% 99%
within non-
statutory
timeframes
There was a $2 million under
spend due to the deferment of a
Risk Mitigation proposal for the
Dampier to Bunbury Natural Gas
Cost per Pipeline and $400,000 in
Crown Land $1,746 $3,366 $2,839 $ 3,408 $2,887 consultancy fees for
action contaminated sites investigations
that did not occur due to
unavailability of qualified
consultants in the 08-09 financial
year.
211
DPI Level Government Desired Outcome: Integration of land and transport systems that
facilitates economic development
Effectiveness Proportion of zoned land in the metropolitan
Indicator: area that is 400 metres/1 kilometre from
major transport systems.
The Department, through its land-planning role, determines the location of major transport routes,
their suitability for a range of transport services and their proximity to urban areas. The term
“major transport routes” includes all major roads and railway lines which buses and trains use as
the main connecting corridors, but excludes minor suburban roads.
Convenient access to major transport systems pays significant economic dividends through:
Facilitating commuting to industrial centres;
Linking consumers to products and services;
Enabling the efficient transport of freight;
Reducing costs associated with road trauma; and
Reducing private usage road infrastructure costs.
Enabling ease of access to major public transport centres also allows development to occur
sustainably through reduced greenhouse gases and greater reliance on walking as a modal
choice. In this context, major transport systems are primary regional roads, other regional roads
and railway stations as defined in the Regional Scheme.
Where the proportion of zoned land that meets the international benchmark of 400 metres from
major transport systems is trending upwards or remains constant, the Department demonstrates
achievement of land and transport integration.
The indicators are calculated from Town Planning Scheme information extracted using the
Geographic Information System (GIS)8. They represent percentages of land for selected
residential density codes (R-Code) proximity to major transport routes. The figures are for the
Perth Metropolitan area only.
8
The GIS is a spatial database consisting of mapping characteristics information and coordinates.
212
Reasons
2008-
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 for
09
Actual Actual Actual Target Significant
Actual
Variance
Proportion of zoned
land in the
metropolitan area that
is 400 metres/1
kilometre from major
transport systems.
- Less than R20 : 400m 78.71% 77% 77.39% 77.0% 77.65%
- Less than R20 : 1 km 88.17% 87.2% 87.32% 88.0% 87.45%
- R20 : 400m 89.50% 89.6% 89.53% 90.0% 89.50%
- R20 : 1 km 97.30% 97.37% 97.52% 97.0% 97.39%
- Greater than R20 : 95.99% 95.92% 95.65% 96.0% 95.98%
400m
- Greater than R20 : 99.15% 99.15% 98.85% 99.0% 99.17%
1km
213
Effectiveness Indicator: Freight via rail to and from Fremantle
Port
Efficient logistics are essential between major metropolitan freight hubs in order to avoid
congestion and bottlenecks. Freight movement also needs to be balanced with community
considerations such as noise, road safety and amenity.
An example of this approach is the encouragement of industry to transport more containerised
freight by rail between Fremantle Inner Harbour and inland terminals in the Kewdale/Forrestfield
area.
A target was set for containers carried by rail between Fremantle Port and Kewdale/Forrestfield of
15 percent by 2008-09 and 30 percent by 2012-13.
At the end of 2008-09 rail container volumes have reached 15.1 percent of total container trade
through Fremantle Inner Harbour. This equates to 65,000 truck movements off the road over the
year.
The State Government provided financial assistance to support the rail service for most of the
2008-09 at $50 per 20ft container in reflection of rail's higher costs than road. This has been
reduced to $45 per 20 ft container and $95 per 40ft container as of 18 May 2009. The subsidy is
paid on loaded containers having their origin or destination in the metropolitan area. It is expected
that the subsidy per container will further decline as volumes on rail increase and operational
efficiencies are introduced.
The following measures are currently being examined to boost rail‟s competitiveness and market
share:
o review of North Quay rail terminal costs and operations (particularly interface with Container
Terminals); and
o potential development of intermodal container terminals in the Kewdale-Forrestfield area.
To calculate this indicator, data on rail containers is sourced from the North Quay Rail Terminal
and is compared to Fremantle Port‟s trade figures for total containers (excluding those that are
transhipped and do not leave the port precinct). This comparison enables calculation of rail‟s
market share.
Reasons for
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09
Significant
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual
Variance
Freight via rail to
and from 4.5% 8.3% 13.3% 15% 15.1%
Fremantle Port
Effectiveness Indicator: Area of commercial and industrial land per capita per corridor
One of the objectives sought from the integration of land and transport is economic development
through enhanced employment self-sufficiency in non-metropolitan corridors. In other words,
people that live in a suburb are able to find work in that suburb. Employment self-sufficiency
yields several benefits including:
214
minimising environmental impacts through reducing the need for long car journeys to
places of employment;
revitalising suburbs through increased local employment;
maximising utilisation of infrastructure and services through greater density in prescribed
areas; and
social benefits including improved work/life balance through reduced commuting times
and an enhanced sense of community.
Although the Department cannot directly influence the creation of jobs in specific geographical
areas, it can facilitate employment outcomes through ensuring that land is available for
commercial and industrial purposes in each of the four land corridors. Western Australia has
many opportunities to promote and foster continued strong and sustainable economic growth in
commerce, industry and trade. These have and will continue to provide an expanded financial
base to Government for meeting growing community lifestyle expectations. Responding to the
needs of this growth potential, along with responding to the general needs of population growth,
has and will continue to require careful planning and management of the State's land use and
infrastructure requirements. As the Department has significant involvement in this role through
the provision of effective and timely advice, the Department can therefore make a substantial
contribution to the State's economic and social development goals.
Where the percentage of commercial and industrial land per capita per corridor increases, the
Department demonstrates its contribution to geographically specific employment growth and the
associated economic development.
To calculate this indicator, industrial and commercial zoned land in Local Authority Town Planning
Schemes and the Peel and Perth Metropolitan Region Schemes are combined with planning
sector boundaries and the resulting land area summed by planning sector. Land areas per capita
are determined by dividing these areas by the population9 in each planning sector.
Reasons for
2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09
Significant
Actual Actual Actual Target Actual
Variance
Area of commercial
and industrial land per
capita per corridor:
- Eastern Sector –
18.1m2 12.6m2 12.1m2 12.4m2 9.99m2 The variances in
Commercial per capita the Eastern Sector
and North West
- Eastern Sector – Sector
88.9m2 82.4m2 79.7m2 82.1m2 79.27m2
Industrial per capita Commercial area
figures between
- Inner Sector –
35.4m2 34.5m2 33.2m2 33.1m2 32.40m2 the 2007-08 Actual
Commercial per capita and 2008-09
- Inner Sector – Target figures
17.1m2 14.2m2 13.5m2 14.9m2 13.13m2 requires detailed
Industrial per capita
investigation and
- Middle Sector – analysis of the
28.8m2 22.0m2 21.4m2 22.1m2 21.15m2
Commercial per capita Region Scheme &
9
The population data is based on the report Regional Population Growth, Australia, ABS, Canberra -
Estimated Resident Population, Statistical Local Areas, Western Australia.
215
- Middle Sector – Town Planning
61.7m2 61.7m2 59.6m2 61.7m2 58.64m2 Scheme
Industrial per capita commercial zone
- North West Sector – datasets and
64.7m2 45.5m2 39.5m2 45.5m2 37.91m2 statutory
Commercial per capita amendment
- North West Sector – processes over
79.7m2 68m2 65.7m2 68.0m2 62.71m2 the last 12 months
Industrial per capita
to determine the
- South East Sector –
15.3m2 14.9m2 14.5m2 15.0m2 13.85m2 validity of the
Commercial per capita results.
- South East Sector –
72.0m2 63.8m2 62.1m2 63.8m2 59.85m2
Industrial per capita
- South West Sector –
42.5m2 25.5m2 24.9m2 25.5m2 23.75m2
Commercial per capita
- South West Sector –
210.9m2 185m2 180.3m2 185.0m2 172.09m2
Industrial per capita
- Perth Metropolitan
Region – Commercial 34.9m2 26.7m2 25.1m2 26.5m2 24.16m2
per capita
- Perth Metropolitan
Region – Industrial 79.3m2 74m2 71.6m2 74.1m2 69.65m2
per capita
216
Efficiency Key Performance Indicators
Service 4: Integrated Land and Transport Policy Development
This service contributes to the achievement of the Agency outcome, integrated
land use and transport systems that facilitate economic development, by shaping
the pattern of development and influencing the location, scale, density, design and
mix of land uses through:
- creating a more efficient urban form which reduces trip times, numbers and costs;
- improving freight access to key terminals, improving freight flows and increasing
competitiveness through reduced costs;
- reducing the costs associated with road trauma by enhancing the accessibility and safety of
public transport systems;
- providing for the efficient distribution of goods and services to business and the community;
- ensuring flexibility to meet the demands of a changing economy and market environments;
- maximising the use of existing infrastructure rather than incurring the costs of green fields
infrastructure with its resulting impact on home affordability; and
- enabling commuter access to industrial centres and to the services and goods they require.
Reasons for
Key Efficiency 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09
Significant
Indicators Actual Actual Actual Target Actual
Variance
Average cost per policy The variance is due to
hour for integrated land the need to engage
and transport policy professional contractors
development in support of major
infrastructure projects
$68.30 $80.07 $73.46 $75.54 $96.29 together with additional
salary costs associated
with the Public Sector
General Agreement
award increases.
217
Office Locations
Metropolitan offices
Office Contact Numbers Street Address Postal Address
Albert Facey House Phone: 08 9264 7777 469 Wellington Street 469 Wellington Street
Fax: 08 9264 7566 PERTH WA 6000 PERTH WA 6000
Murray Street Phone: 08 9216 8000 441 Murray Street GPO Box C102
PERTH WA 6000 PERTH WA 6839
Public Transport Phone: 08 9216 8000 West Parade EAST GPO Box R1290
Centre PERTH WA 6004 PERTH WA 6844
Midland Phone: 08 9347 5000 1 Midland Square PO Box 1575
Fax: 08 9347 5001 MIDLAND WA 6056 MIDLAND WA 6936
Fremantle Phone: 08 9216 8999 Marine House PO Box 402
Fax: 08 9216 8979 1 Essex Street FREMANTLE WA
FREMANTLE WA 6160 6959
Fremantle Fishing Phone: 08 9431 1000 14 Capo D‟Orlando PO Box 402
Boat Harbour Fax: 08 9431 1019 Drive FREMANTLE Fremantle WA 6959
(Marine operations WA 6160
centre)
Hillarys(Coastal Phone: 08 9448 7544 86 Southside Drive PO Box 410
infrastructure) Fax: 08 9447 8713 HILLARYS WA 6025 HILLARYS WA 6923
Whiteman Phone: 08 9209 6000 Lot 99ALord Street Lot 99A Lord Street
Park(Planning Fax: 08 9249 3510 WHITEMAN WA 6068 WHITEMAN WA
services) 6068
People with disabilities
If you are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment please call 13 36 77 and quote the
number you want.
TTY access for people with a hearing impairment:
Fremantle office TTY08 9430 6263
Licensing information TTY08 9216 8484
Planning and land administration services TTY 08 9264 7535
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Country Offices
Region Office Contact Numbers Street Address Postal Address
Peel Mandurah Phone: 13 11 56 Pinjarra Rd (Cnr Ranceby Ave) PO Box 3102
(Licensing) Fax: 08 9535 8300 MANDURAH WA 6210 MANDURAH EAST
WA 6210
Mandurah Phone: 08 9586 4600 Unit 2B, 11–13 Pinjarra Road Unit 2B, 11–13 Pinjarra Road
(Planning services) Fax: 08 9581 5491 MANDURAH WA 6210 MANDURAH WA 6210
Pinjarra Phone: 13 11 56 Murray House14 James St (Cnr Murray St) Murray House
(Licensing and PINJARRA WA 6208 14 James St (Cnr Murray St)
marine safety PINJARRA WA 6208
services)
Gascoyne Carnarvon Phone: 08 9941 6800 Carnarvon Boat Harbour PO Box 775
(One-stop shop) Fax: 08 9941 1067 Boat Harbour Road CARNARVON WA 6701
CARNARVON WA 6701
Exmouth Phone: 08 9949 2079 SES Building PO Box 220
(One-stop shop) Fax: 08 9949 2078 Corner Payne and Riggs Streets EXMOUTH WA 6707
EXMOUTH WA 6707
Goldfields–Esperance Esperance Phone: 08 9071 6891 53 The Esplanade PO Box 2255
(Regional services) Fax: 08 9071 6892 ESPERANCE WA 6450 ESPERANCE WA 6450
Kalgoorlie Phone: 08 9022 5999 Unit 4, 35 Brookman Street PO Box 10412
(One-stop shop) Fax: 08 9091 6288 KALGOORLIE WA 6430 Kalgoorlie WA 6430
Great Southern Albany Phone: 08 9892 7333 178 Stirling Terrace PO Box 1108
(One-stop shop) Fax: 08 9842 1079 Albany WA 6330 ALBANY WA 6331
Kimberley Broome Phone: 08 9192 0200 Old Kennedy Store9 Napier Terrace PO Box 1993
(One-stop shop) Fax: 08 9193 5651 BROOME WA 6725 BROOME WA 6725
Kununurra Phone: 08 9168 0602 Cnr Messmate & Bandicoot Dve PO Box 630
(Crown Land) Fax: 08 9168 0600 KUNUNURRA WA 6743 KUNUNURRA WA 6743
Mid West Geraldton Phone: 08 9956 0111 65 Chapman Rd PO Box 68
(One-stop shop) Fax: 08 9956 0130 (licensing) Geraldton WA 6530 Geraldton WA 6530
08 9956 0131 (regional services)
08 9956 0132 (planning)
Pilbara Karratha Phone: 08 9185 6100Fax: 08 9143 3–5 Welcome Road PO Box 429
(One-stop shop) 1288 KARRATHA WA 6714 KARRATHA WA 6714
South West Bunbury Phone: 08 9792 6666Fax: 08 9792 24 Wellington St PO Box 2247
(One-stop shop) 6600 BUNBURY WA 6230 BUNBURY WA 6231
Bunbury Phone: 08 9791 0577Fax: 08 9791 Sixth Floor, Bunbury Tower Sixth Floor, Bunbury Tower
(Planning services) 0576 61 Victoria Street 61 Victoria Street
BUNBURY WA 6230 BUNBURY WA 6230
Bunbury Phone: 08 9791 0836Fax: 08 9791 Sixth Floor, Bunbury Tower Sixth Floor, Bunbury Tower
(State land services) 0835 61 Victoria Street 61 Victoria Street
BUNBURY WA 6230 BUNBURY WA 6230
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