Agenda of Community, Culture and Events Committee Meeting

Item No. 6.1

Agenda (Open Portion)

Community, Culture and Events Committee Meeting

Page 7

10/7/2019

REPORT TITLE: Dr Edward Hall Environment Grants

REPORT PROVIDED BY: Director City Planning

Director City Innovation

1. Report Purpose and Community Benefit

1.1. The purpose of this report is to propose a number of changes to the operation and administration of the Dr Edward Hall Environment Grants (DEHEG).

1.2. A consistent approach to the management and delivery of the City’s various grants streams provides clarity and consistency for both applicants and the organisation.

2. Report Summary

2.1. The DEHEG were established in 2010-2011 as an annual grant program to assist schools, community groups and businesses to undertake projects relating to urban sustainability including: waste reduction, energy efficiency, air and water quality, food gardens, climate change, sustainable transport and local biodiversity.

2.2. Since that time the program has provided funding for 61 projects enabling the community to undertake $625,000 worth of urban sustainability projects that would not have occurred otherwise.

2.3. The grants have been extremely popular with each grant round being oversubscribed with applications of a high standard.

2.4. Until 2018, the DEHEG grants were administered and managed through the City Planning Division as the division responsible for the grant program objectives.

2.5. A holistic review of the management of grants offered by the City of Hobart has identified a number of issues and opportunities for improvement, including;

2.5.1. Inconsistency in approach around management, delegations for approval, acquittal processes; timeframes for reporting and monitoring.

2.5.2. Duplication of effort and resources across divisions in the delivery and administration of grants.

2.5.3. Confusion within the community as to, which grant to apply for and when; and the process and timing for applications.

2.6. The review has identified efficiencies to be gained through centralisation of administration and management of the City’s suite of grants.

2.7. The review also identified considerable synergies and overlap between the DEHEG and the City’s existing Waste Reduction Grants, which were established in 2015 to support the City of Hobart Waste Management Strategy 2015-2030.

3. Recommendation

That:

1. The Dr Edward Hall Environment Grants and the Waste Reduction Grants be combined to form the City of Hobart Urban Sustainability Grants in order to avoid duplication and overlap, and to broaden and increase their scope.

2. The City of Hobart Urban Sustainability Grants focus on waste reduction, energy efficiency, air and water quality, food gardens, climate change, sustainable transport and local biodiversity

3. The City of Hobart Urban Sustainability Grants provide an annual grant budget of $55,000, comprised of the existing allocations of $35,000 from the DEHEG and $20,000 from the Waste Reduction grant streams.

4. The City of Hobart Urban Sustainability Grants be administered by the Community Life Division.

5. The City of Hobart Policy: Applications for Grants – City of Hobart Grants Program be amended to include the City of Hobart Urban Sustainability Grants, including the provision of technical input and support from the within the relevant operational areas of the organisation.

6. The City Planning Committee’s Terms of Reference be amended to remove reference to the Dr Edward Hall Environment Grants.

4. Proposal

4.1. Based on the review, a number of proposals are put forward for consideration by the Committee:

4.1.1. The alignment of delivery and coordination with all City of Hobart grant programs with the Community Life Division, to deliver a more efficient grants program to the community through the rationalisation of communications and promotion, grants guidelines, assessment, acquittal, management platforms and approval processes.

4.1.2. The existing DEHEG and Waste Reduction Grants be combined to become the City of Hobart Urban Sustainability Grants program, with an annual grant budget of $55,000, comprised of $35,000 from the DEHEG and $20,000 from the Waste Reduction grant streams.

4.1.2.1. These grants would focus on the delivery of urban sustainability outcomes across: waste reduction, energy efficiency, climate change, air and water quality, food gardens, sustainable transport and local biodiversity.

4.1.2.2. Technical and expert input be provided around guidelines, strategic direction and the assessment processes for these grants, from within the City’s relevant operational areas of Council, including climate change, transportation and waste education, together with other specialist input from City of Hobart experts, as appropriate.

5. Implementation

5.1. In the event that the Committee support the consolidation of grants, the following actions would be necessary:

5.1.1. The City Planning Committee’s Terms of Reference would be amended by the deletion of reference to its delegation for approval of the DEHEG.

5.1.2. The new Urban Sustainability Grants stream would be included in the City of Hobart Policy Applications for Grants – City of Hobart Grants Program.

5.2. A rationalised approach to all City of Hobart grant programs, under the umbrella of one division, supported by technical and specialist advice and support for each program, will enable a streamlined process delivering better outcomes for the community.

6. Strategic Planning and Policy Considerations

6.1. The DEHEG and Waste Reduction Grants both align to and further a broad range of strategic objectives and support actions across the Goals of:

· Urban Management

· Environment and Natural Resources

· Strong Safe and Healthy Communities

6.2. The grants also further the Community Vision and its Identity Statements and Pillars. They enable the community to realise urban sustainability opportunities that are inherent to Hobart’s unique lifestyle and community captured in the Vision Statement.

7. Financial Implications

7.1. Funding Source and Impact on Current Year Operating Result

7.1.1. The 2019 DEHEG ($35,000) and Waste Reduction Grants ($20,000) are funded through the Community Planning and Coordination Budget the within the 2018/2019 Annual Plan.

7.2. Impact on Future Years’ Financial Result

7.2.1. No impact arises from this report.

7.3. Asset Related Implications

7.3.1. There are no asset related implications.

8. Environmental Considerations

8.1. The grants have inherent environmental considerations and further strengthen Hobart’s community response and participation in matters of urban sustainability: waste reduction, energy efficiency, climate change, air and water quality, food gardens, sustainable transport and local biodiversity.

9. Marketing and Media

9.1. An Urban Sustainability Grant program would enable marketing and promotion of themes and issues relevant to City programs and topical issues across the community.

10. Delegation

10.1. This matter is reserved to the Council.

As signatory to this report, I certify that, pursuant to Section 55(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, I hold no interest, as referred to in Section 49 of the Local Government Act 1993, in matters contained in this report.

Neil Noye

Director City Planning

Peter Carr

Director City Innovation

Date: 30 May 2019

File Reference: F18/30845; 17/49

Item No. 6.2

Agenda (Open Portion)

Community, Culture and Events Committee Meeting

Page 12

10/7/2019

REPORT TITLE: Proposed Council Policy Amendments - City of Hobart Grants Program

REPORT PROVIDED BY: Manager Future, Engaged and Active Communities

Director Community Life

1. Report Purpose and Community Benefit

1.1. The purpose of this report is to make policy changes to the Council Policy Applications for Grants - City of Hobart Grants Program as part of a required annual review of the Policy.

1.2. The policy changes reflect the proposals for the Dr Edward Hall Environment Grants (DEHEG) and the Waste Reduction Grants that is concurrently being considered by this committee.

1.3. The amendments to the Policy will provide improved governance, better meet the community expectations and streamline the existing program to provide timely outcomes.

1.4. All variations to the existing Policy are shown at Attachment A to this report.

2. Report Summary

2.1. The report details amendments to the Council Policy Applications for Grants - City of Hobart Grants Program as a result of

· proposed changes to the DEHEG and the Waste Reduction Grants; and

· the required annual review of the Policy.

2.2. The independent report outlining the proposed changes of the DEHEG and the Waste Reduction Grants are tabled for discussion at this Committee meeting.

2.2.1. Amendments to the policy in relation to the DEHEG report have also been included in the amendments as shown at Attachment A to this report.

2.3. The annual review of the Policy has identified a number of small points requiring clarification. The proposed amendments aim to improve the Policy’s readability and effectiveness in demonstrating good governance and transparent decision-making.

3. Recommendation

That contingent on the outcome of the reports relating to the proposed changes for the Dr Edward Hall Environment Grants and the Waste Reduction Grants, the recommended amendments of the Council Policy Applications for Grants – City of Hobart Grants Program be endorsed / adopted.

4. Background

4.1. Since the establishment of the Council Policy Applications for Grants - City of Hobart Grants Program, the Council has approved the consolidation of grants issued by the City of Hobart into a single policy.

4.2. Proposed amendments to the Policy are to:

4.2.1. Formally incorporate the updated sustainability grants, currently delivered as the DEHEG and the Waste Reduction Grants, into the Policy.

4.2.2. Merge the Events and Civic Banner Quick Response Grants.

4.2.3. Address issues of clarity within the existing Policy.

4.2.4. Provide details for programs or activities that were not referenced in the existing Policy.

4.3. The last review of the Policy was 21 January 2019 to address the delegation of authority.

4.4. This report is premised on the approval and adoption of the report “Dr Edward Hall Environment Grants” dealt with in previous business.

Grants Policy review

4.5. The Policy is reviewed annually to ensure the governance and decision making in administering the City of Hobart Grants Program is transparent, aligned to the Council strategies and policies, and following good practice. The following are the key changes proposed to the existing Policy and are detailed in context as per Attachment A to this report.

4.6. A Grant Briefing Document has been created to provide an introduction to the City of Hobart Grants Program and outline the administrative process which is undertaken.

4.7. Accredited Schools have been defined as an acceptable applicant for the City of Hobart Grants Program.

4.8. The merger of the Events and Civic Banner Quick Response Grants into a single grant called Activation Quick Response Grants.

4.8.1. The Event Quick Response Grants provide up to $1,000 towards the use of City event equipment, such as bean bags and umbrellas. The value of the grant pool is $3,000 per year.

4.8.2. The Civic Quick Response Grants provide up to $1,000 towards the installation of banners using the City’s civic banner program. The value of the grant pool is $8,000 per year.

4.8.3. Both grants are issued as “in-kind” grants based on the Council's fees and charges, with no cash going directly to the applicant.

4.8.4. Applicants cannot successfully apply for each grant as a project can only receive funding once per financial year.

4.8.5. Merging the two grants into an Activation Quick Response Grant will provide the same opportunities for potential applicants and increase the funding pool to $11,000.

4.9. The definition of the Quick Response Grants in the Policy has been clarified.

· The Community Christmas Activation Grants are unique as they operate for a defined time period of time and offer a maximum of $750 per grant.

· Additionally, there are two Quick Response Grants which offer
in-kind support only (Venue Support and Events).

· Amendment to clauses for assessment for Quick Response Grants as the process is more responsive to enable a short processing time. This includes the formation of an internal assessment panel followed by final approval from the Director Community Life, as per the delegated authority.

4.10. Additional amendments have been proposed to improve the readability of the document but do not effective the intent or have direct bearing on the Policy.

4.11. The formal inclusion of the Urban Sustainability Grants as the aggregation of the Dr Edward Hall Environment Grants and Waste Reduction Grants, should the Committee approve the recommendations outlined in the report, Dr Edward Hall Environment Grants.

Budgetary Control

4.12. To support the central administration of the City of Hobart Grants Program, all funds supporting the grant streams have been centralised into one budget function and are not transferable between grant streams. The minimum annual allocation for each grant stream and some grant categories are defined as part of the budget process.

4.13. Additionally, the proposed revision reflects the indexation of City Partnership grants.

5. Proposal and Implementation

5.1. Once the proposed amendments to Council Policy Applications for Grants - City of Hobart Grants Program are endorsed by the Council the updated policy will come into effect.

6. Strategic Planning and Policy Considerations

6.1. The provision of the City of Hobart Grants Program responds to City of Hobart strategies, most specifically:

6.1.1. The Capital City Strategic Plan 2015-2025:

· Offers opportunities for all ages and a city for life

· Is recognised for its natural beauty and quality of environment

· Is well governed at a regional and community level

· Achieves good quality development and urban management

· Is highly accessible through efficient transport systems

· Builds strong and healthy communities through diversity, participation and empathy

· Is dynamic, vibrant and culturally expressive.

6.1.2. The Governance priority area of activity in the Capital City Strategic Plan 2015-2025 states that: “The organisation is relevant to the community and provides good governance and transparent decision-making.”

6.1.3. The Economic Development, Vibrancy and Culture priority area of activity in the Capital City Strategic Plan 2015-2025:

· Partnerships with Government, the education sector and business to create city growth.

· Cultural and creative activities build community wellbeing and economic viability.

6.1.4. The City of Hobart Social Inclusion Strategy 2014-2019:

· Recognising that diversity in the community is one of Hobart’s greatest assets.

· Ensuring that the needs and aspirations of the most disadvantaged people in the community are addressed.

· Identifying and understanding the root causes of disadvantage and giving priority to supporting early intervention and prevention approaches.

· Promoting and providing equity and access to all our activities, programs, facilities and services.

6.1.5. Creative Hobart Cultural Strategy - the City as:

· A platform for creativity.

· An incubator of diversity and excellence in the arts and culture.

· A connector of creative people and the community.

7. Financial Implications

7.1. Funding Source and Impact on Current Year Operating Result

7.1.1. There is no impact on the current financial years resulting from this proposal.

7.2. Impact on Future Years’ Financial Result

7.2.1. There is no direct impact on future year’s financial result.

7.3. Asset Related Implications

7.3.1. There are no asset related implications.

8. Legal, Risk and Legislative Considerations

8.1. It is considered that this proposal provides operation benefit, improves governance and assists in mitigating risks associated with lack of transparency and the potential perception of interference in the process.

9. Environmental Considerations

9.1. The City of Hobart Grants Program will, wherever possible, support the objectives of the City of Hobart Waste Management Strategy 2015-2030. In particular, applicants must outline their commitment to sustainable events, certified compostable food packaging and reducing waste to landfill.

10. Social and Customer Considerations

10.1. The amendments to the Policy provide clarity and improve the understanding of the City of Hobart Grants Program for Council officers and the community engaging in the program.

11. Marketing and Media

11.1. The proposed changes to the Council Policy Applications for Grants – City of Hobart Grants Program does not present a marketing or media opportunity.

12. Community and Stakeholder Engagement

12.1. The Community Development Officer - Grants, Community Activation Coordinator, Manager Future, Engaged and Active Communities and Manager Inclusive, Resilient and Creative Communities, as well as Environmental & Climate Change Projects Officer, Cleansing & Solid Waste Policy Coordinator, Marketing & Business Engagement Officer and Senior Advisor City Marketing and Sponsorship have been consulted in the preparation of this report.

13. Delegation

13.1. This matter is delegated to the Council.

Luke Doyle

Manager Future, Engaged and Active Communities

tims short

Tim Short

Director Community Life

Date: 4 July 2019

File Reference: F19/65185; 18/279

Attachment a: Applications for Grants - City of Hobart Grants Program Policy ⇩

Item No. 6.3

Agenda (Open Portion)

Community, Culture and Events Committee Meeting

Page 31

10/7/2019

REPORT TITLE: Provision of English Language Classes in Hobart

REPORT PROVIDED BY: Manager Inclusive, Resilient and Creative Communities

Director Community Life

1. Report Purpose and Community Benefit

1.1. This report provides a response to the Notice of Motion 9 January 2019, “That a report be provided to detail the current provision of English language classes in Hobart; to provide examples of services provided in other cities; and to explore the possibilities for increased provision of intensive English language services in Hobart in collaboration with the State Government.”

1.2. Language is one of the most important factors for successful settlement in a new country. English language proficiency is vital for participation in education, work, sense of belonging and for involvement in the broader life of the community. Without adequate language skills, new arrivals can struggle to integrate and contribute to the community. Students quickly fall behind in their studies; adults struggle to find work; and daily tasks such as shopping and accessing services can prove challenging. Intensive English language courses upon arrival ensure that migrants and humanitarian entrants start off their new life with the best possible chance of success.

1.3. Currently, there are a number of gaps in the provision of English as an additional language (EAL) services in Hobart. Advocacy and support for improved EAL service provision in Hobart would be appropriate.

2. Report Summary

2.1. In Tasmania there is currently no central specialist intensive language course offered for school-aged students needing English as an additional language (EAL) support.

2.1.1. Government schools with a significant number of migrants provide some level of intensive English classes, however often the numbers are smaller than needed to run these classes.

2.1.2. Where there are smaller numbers of students needing EAL support, they are placed in mainstream classes with support from EAL teachers in class where possible and a number may be withdrawn daily for English classes.

2.2. The Department of Education notes that the low numbers of EAL students in Tasmania makes it hard to offer direct English courses. There are rarely sufficient numbers to form a class size group of newly arrived students.

2.3. Education and service providers indicate that EAL students arriving in high school, or even mid to late primary school, will finish their schooling at a significant disadvantage to their peers.

2.4. TasTAFE English Language Services offer a range of courses in English for adults 18 years and over and a range of conversation classes with homework support and tutoring being offered through Libraries and service providers. These programs are well supported and well utilised, but they do not always meet visa work or study requirements and there are clear gaps for certain cohorts.

2.5. There is a real need for tailored classes for a number of cohorts who struggle to access the current offering including those students who aren’t progressing fast, parents with young children, the elderly, people with a disability and young men at risk of disengaging and/or offending.

2.6. Reports are that progress in the education system from high school to college and beyond to further education or employment is highly problematic for many of our newest Tasmanians and this impacts their capacity to participate in work and further study. There are opportunities to strengthen communication and transition processes to improve outcomes.

2.7. A number of Australian cities of a similar size to Hobart do offer intensive English courses for students, although the Department of Education are clear that the low numbers here in Tasmania make it difficult to offer targeted courses.

2.8. It is noted that whilst service provision to migrants and humanitarian entrants is not the mandate of Local Government, advocating for the needs of this community is a key role for the City of Hobart and is in accordance with the City of Hobart’s Multicultural Strategy 2014-2019.

2.9. It is therefore proposed that the Council write to the State Government outlining the gaps in EAL service provision that have been identified and encouraging a serious exploration of the opportunities to improve the EAL service provision.

2.10. Council officers will continue to engage with stakeholders on this issue and work to support initiatives or trial projects in these areas through our grants program and/or through the provision of facilities to hold classes.

3. Recommendation

That:

1. The Council write to the State Government regarding the gaps identified in EAL service provision, encouraging an exploration of the opportunities to improve the EAL service provision and offering appropriate support to address these gaps.

2. Council officers continue to engage with stakeholders on this issue and work to support current or new initiatives as appropriate through the grants program and/or through the provision of facilities to hold classes.

4. Background

Current Provision of English Language Support in Department of Education Schools

4.1. In Tasmania there is currently no central specialist intensive language course offered for school-aged students needing EAL support.

4.2. Government schools with a significant number of migrants provide some level of intensive English classes, however often the numbers are smaller than needed to run these classes.

4.3. Where there are smaller numbers of students needing EAL support, they are placed in mainstream classes with support from EAL teachers in class where possible and a number may be withdrawn daily for English classes.

4.4. Reports are that this style of language support seems to work well in primary school, where children are on-the-whole well supported but it becomes more challenging in high school. Without sufficient language skills students quickly fall behind and bullying and racism are more commonplace, causing further stress and anxiety for students.

4.5. The location of students is a big factor in the ability to provide support. It is much easier to provide comprehensive support services when the numbers of EAL students at a school are large enough to warrant the increased cost. Where there are smaller numbers, the availability of teacher time will be less.

4.6. The Department of Education have indicated that where there are humanitarian entrants students, they will ensure that EAL support is provided, even in the case of a single student in school.

4.7. With the low numbers of EAL students here in Tasmania it is very hard to offer the services they really need. There are rarely sufficient numbers to form a class size group of newly arrived students.

4.8. On two occasions over the past few years, when there have been large intakes of school-aged new arrivals, the Department of Education have offered intensive English programs.

4.8.1. Firstly, in 2013 in response to the large intake of young humanitarian entrants housed at Pontville Detention Centre and secondly in 2016 in response to large expected numbers of young Syrian humanitarian entrants arriving. The latter were put into an intensive language program for 6-7 weeks before moving into mainstream classes.

4.8.2. Reports are that this program was problematic as the numbers were still too small to run effectively. The groups started with up to 20-25 students, in ages ranging from 4-18 and with varying levels of existing English and study capacity. It was very challenging to provide appropriate offerings for this diverse group, even for a short period.

4.9. To improve the wellbeing support offered throughout schools, the English as an Additional Language Program, Department of Education, has recently appointed two CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) social workers, one in the north and one in the south of the State. It is still early days for this program, but teachers and school Social Workers are reporting that having the CALD Social Workers there to support and demonstrate best practice, has increased their confidence in working with CALD students which is a positive outcome.

Non School-Based, Government Funded English Programs

4.10. TasTAFE English Language Services offer a range of courses in English for living, working and studying in Australia, including courses for students with no English language through to Certificate III in Spoken and Written English.

4.11. The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) is funded by the Australian Government Department of Education and Training and is offered by TasTAFE here in Hobart. The AMEP offers 510 hours of English Language tuition to help migrants and humanitarian entrants settle in Australia. TasTAFE currently have 207 students enrolled in the AMEP.

4.12. TasTAFE also offer the targeted Young Migrant Education Program (YMEP), a full time youth program for students aged 18-24 years. This program draws younger students from the other English Courses to provide a more tailored, age appropriate program.

4.13. The Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program is a Federally Funded program that is designed for job seekers who wish to improve their employment opportunities through strengthened English language, reading, writing or numerical skills. It is free for eligible job seekers registered with Centrelink or Job Services Australia. The SEE program is offered by Workskills and TasTAFE and is currently at capacity. This program has a strict cap on numbers and eligibility criteria. Students must demonstrate the capacity to progress in their English skills and so, whilst there are many students who move from General English or AMEP to SEE, there are a number who are not able to progress and so are unable to access further formal English study upon completing the AMEP program.

Coversation Classes and Other Informal Support

4.14. The Hobart Library offers two English conversation classes each week for beginners to intermediate. These classes are volunteer run and generally run to capacity with between 15 and 20 participants at each class.

4.15. The Library had been running a more formal English language class of one two-hour session per week with term based enrolments. They found that attendance dropped off during the term, with students struggling to commit to attending each week. Staff indicate that perhaps classes with fixed enrolments were not the best fit for this cohort. This offering is being reviewed with this maybe being reinstated in the future.

4.16. CatholicCare has been running ‘Let’s Talk’ conversation classes for just over a year and they are going really well. On the whole the students who attend this program have finished at TAFE and don’t yet have the language skills needed to go onto other study or employment. Classes are well attended with between 20 and 30 people each week.

4.17. The Migrant Resource Centre and Clarence Council Youth Programs both currently offer migrant youth homework programs to support students in their schooling.

4.18. Multicultural Youth Tasmania has recently launched the Multicultural Youth Language in Focus: English (MY LiFE) program. MY LiFE will provide academic English tutoring in a class environment for Year 9, 10 and 11 students beginning in term 3, 2019. MY LiFE aims to support young people who have:

· a higher level of English proficiency and competency, but still requiring further assistance and scaffolding for academic development in preparation for tertiary ad VET study; and

· high personal motivation and interest in further education after college.

Private English Courses

4.19. There are a number of private colleges offering English courses with a range of courses including a high school bridging course for younger students. The minimum English proficiency level for entry into this program is intermediate. Full time course fees at the various colleges range from $230 - $500 per week.

Gaps in service provision

4.20. There is an identified need for tailored classes for those low level students who aren’t progressing fast. Once they have completed 1-2 years of General English or AMEP at TasTAFE, some students move into the SEE program, however as it is a requirement for this course that students demonstrate the capacity to progress, there are a number who just don’t progress. These students would benefit from a very low level conversational/relational program that gets them out and about and practicing the skills they have. These students often don’t fit well in the conversation classes, as these have many students at a higher level and they cannot keep up.

4.21. There are a number of other groups that struggle to access the current offering and really need support. These include parents with young children, the elderly and people with a disability.

4.22. Reports are that the transition from college is highly problematic for many of our newest Tasmanians. Many flounder in the schooling system, without adequate English to really progress they complete Year 12 without the results or the language skills needed to transition into other education - even into a Certificate III or Certificate IV level course. These students finish Year 12 and apply to TasTAFE, or even UTAS with no understanding that they may not be ready. They get rejected time and again and then their defences go up. They suddenly feel lost and without options. This indicates a lack of clear feedback to these students during their college years, regarding their skills and capacity to progress to further education and/or the need for continuous and ongoing feedback to these young people throughout their transition.

4.23. A number of years ago Hobart saw a large intake of ‘women at risk’ arriving with young children. Anecdotal reports from education providers and service providers indicate that there are now a number of young men aged 18-24, the sons of these women, who, having graduated school are finding it hard to get work or to progress to further meaningful study. Many of these men are angry and dis-engaged, they are getting into trouble with police and getting caught up in the court system. These young men have had a lack of positive male role models in their lives, have struggled with education due to lower levels of English language proficiency, and are the victims of increasing bullying and racism, both in school and whilst out and about in the City. They are highly at risk and need targeted support and educational services. It is important to note that this observation has not been supported by police in their reporting.

4.24. The lack of an intensive English program for school aged children in Tasmania means that unless they have the resources to pay for private courses, they have no alternative but to go straight into mainstream classes. Given the Department of Education indicates that it currently takes between seven and ten years for a new arrival to develop English skills equivalent to their peers, students arriving in high school, or even mid-late primary school, will finish their schooling at a significant disadvantage. Whilst they can then go on to English classes at TasTAFE, they have missed the opportunities to learn effectively during high school which impacts their capacity to participate in work and further study. These students would highly benefit from a significant, intensive English program offered upon arrival.

Current Provision other Cities

4.25. When looking to other cities to consider their language service provision, it is important to consider the migrant population figures. Figures provided by the Department of Home Affairs show that during 2017-18, 2,775 migrants indicated that Tasmania was their State of intended residence. This amount comes to 1.7 per cent of the total number nationally and sits just above the Northern Territory at 1.5 and just below the ACT at 2 per cent. It would be difficult to compare the Tasmanian context to either NSW (52,251 people or 32.2 per cent of the total) or Victoria (41,005 people / 25.2 per cent of the total).

4.26. Given the figures above, the ACT and Northern Territory offer potentially comparable examples.

4.27. In the Northern Territory, the Department of Education offer a year of intensive English for students arriving in grades 5-12. Students can access a further semester offered if deemed appropriate. This program is offered within a select number of schools and transport assistance is offered to students who are required to travel long distances to access the program.

4.27.1. EAL support is also offered in schools for students who have transitioned from intensive English programs to mainstream schooling.

4.28. The ACT Department of Education offers primary and secondary Introductory English Centres (IECs) for students with English as an additional language or dialect. Students must be a new resident in Australia, or be a kindergarten student with minimal exposure to English, and be deemed to have Beginning English language proficiency. Primary students can access an IEC program for two terms with a possible one term extension. Secondary students can access the program for three terms with a possible one term extension.

4.29. Wollongong has a similar population size to Hobart, is classed as a regional area and is identified as a priority settlement location for female, humanitarian entrants who are at risk. Over the past five years there has been an average of 252 humanitarian entrants settled in the district. As a result of being a priority settlement location, Wollongong has the only Intensive English Language Centre in regional NSW. Since the Centre opened in 1979, nearly 3,000 EAL students have enrolled. The Centre accepts 11-18 year olds and is co-located with the Warrawong High School. The Centre also assists students with English language tuition and welfare support.

Opportunities

4.30. TasTAFE English Language Services have developed a test that they provide to students when they arrive at the service. This test gives a strong indication of the students study skills and language skills and provides the feedback needed to guide the student in their future study and work decisions. It is suggested that offering this test in upper high school and again in college would be highly beneficial to students, giving them an accurate picture of where they are at.

4.31. TasTAFE English Language Services have convened a CALD Education Community of Practice with the aim of improving transitions from college to University or TAFE. Members of this community of practice include TasTAFE, the University of Tasmania, college teachers, high school teachers, the Migrant Resource Centre and Catholic Education. We understand that to date, the level of engagement from Department of Education teachers has not been adequate to progress the issues raised. This is an area for advocacy to improve communication and collaboration between schools at TasTAFE through this mechanism.

4.32. There is currently no clear tracking of culturally and linguistically diverse students as they transition from high school to college and beyond. It would be highly beneficial to develop and maintain a clear picture of the progression of students through schooling and to future study or work, to enable data driven responses.

4.33. The City of Hobart is well placed to continue to advocate for services for those specific cohorts that would benefit from targeted service provision. The City can support trial projects in these areas through our grants program and/or through the provision of facilities to hold classes.

4.34. Whilst it is noted that the numbers of students needing EAL support does make the provision of a dedicated service challenging, it is still the reality that provision of an Intensive English Language Service in Hobart would be highly beneficial and should continue to be considered as an option as/when the numbers of migrants and humanitarian entrants increases.

5. Proposal and Implementation

5.1. It is proposed that the Council write to the State Government regarding the gaps identified in EAL service provision, encouraging an exploration of the opportunities to improve the EAL service provision and offering appropriate support to address these gaps.

5.2. It is further proposed that Council officers continue to engage with stakeholders on this issue and work to support current or new initiatives as appropriate through the grants program and/or through the provision of facilities to hold classes.

5.3. It is noted that whilst service provision to migrants and humanitarian entrants is not the mandate of Local Government, advocating for the needs of this community is a key role for the City of Hobart and is in line with the City of Hobart’s Multicultural Strategy 2014-2019.

6. Strategic Planning and Policy Considerations

6.1. Support for the improved EAL Services aligns with Pillar 2.2.1 of the Council endorsed Hobart: A community vision for our island capital:

“We make Hobart the most inclusive city in the world, a city that welcomes all”;

and Pillar 2.2.8:

“We support each other to have our needs met and flourish. We all have opportunities to access and contribute to Hobart life.”

6.2. The Council’s Participation in the Welcoming Cities Network aligns with Strategic Objective 4.1 of the Capital City Strategic Plan 2015-2025:

“Community connectedness and participation realises the cultural and social potential of the community”;

and Strategic Objective 1.1.6:

“Develop relationships with other cultural and educational institutions as opportunities arise.”

6.3. Participation in the Welcoming Cities Network strongly aligns with the City of Hobart’s Social Inclusion Strategy 2014-2019 and Multicultural Strategy 2014-2019.

7. Financial Implications

7.1. There are no financial implications from this report.

8. Legal, Risk and Legislative Considerations

8.1. It is noted that whilst service provision to migrants and humanitarian entrants is not the mandate of Local Government, advocating for the needs of this community is a key role for the City of Hobart and is in accordance with the City of Hobart’s Multicultural Strategy 2014-2019.

8.2. Legal, risk and legislative considerations are minimal for this proposal.

9. Environmental Considerations

9.1. There are no specific environmental considerations as a result of this report, however any future partnership initiatives will be delivered in alignment with the City of Hobart’s Towards Zero Waste to Landfill strategy.

10. Social and Customer Considerations

10.1. Advocacy and support for improved EAL services in Hobart is in line with the Community Vision for our Island Capital and would further our reputation as a welcoming and inclusive city.

11. Marketing and Media

11.1. The City of Hobart website could provide information regarding English Language programs offered as a point of referral for new arrivals and people considering a move to Hobart.

12. Community and Stakeholder Engagement

12.1. The City of Hobart’s Networking for Harmony Multicultural Advisory Group were consulted in the development of this report, along with a range of private and government education and service providers who provided direct input and referrals.

12.2. Further community engagement is not deemed necessary at this stage.

13. Delegation

13.1. This is a matter for Council’s determination.

Kimbra Parker

Manager Inclusive, Resilient and Creative Communities

Tim Short

Director Community Life

Date: 3 July 2019

File Reference: F19/66425; 17/204

Item No. 6.4

Agenda (Open Portion)

Community, Culture and Events Committee Meeting

Page 42

10/7/2019

REPORT TITLE: Community Safety Commitment - Approval

REPORT PROVIDED BY: Manager Inclusive, Resilient and Creative Communities

Director Community Life

1. Report Purpose and Community Benefit

1.1. This report is seeking the Council’s approval of the final Community Safety Commitment 2019 as shown at Attachment A to this report.

1.1.1. The Commitment will provide a policy setting and action plan to guide the City’s work in community safety.

1.1.2. The Commitment will demonstrate to the community the positive ongoing work of the City in this area and outline our commitment to collaborative action.

2. Report Summary

2.1. The Draft Community Safety Commitment was endorsed for community engagement by the Council at its meeting of 18 February 2019.

2.2. The Commitment will provide a policy setting and action plan to guide the City’s work in community safety, demonstrating to the community the positive ongoing work of the City in this area and outlining our commitment to collaborative action.

2.3. This Community Safety Commitment reflects the community’s aspirations articulated through the Community Vision and aligns strongly with the Capital City Strategic Plan 2015-2025 and the Social Inclusion Strategy 2014-2019.

2.4. Council officers engaged with a wide range of community partners on the topic of community safety over an extended period leading to the development of the draft Commitment.

2.5. A community engagement process was undertaken utilising the Your Say Hobart platform and further face-to-face meetings with community partners. Feedback received was strongly supportive of the draft Community Safety Commitment.

2.6. The only suggested change to the document following community engagement is the addition of CatholicCare as a community safety partner.

3. Recommendation

That:

1. The Council approve the Community Safety Commitment 2019.

2. The Commitment will be reviewed annually in consultation with the community safety partners.

4. Background

4.1. The City of Hobart Safety Strategy 2004 was developed in conjunction with the State Government under the Capital City Partnership Agreement and was launched in July 2004. As this strategy is now out of date, there is the need for a new document to outline the City’s community safety agenda.

4.2. The City of Hobart has continued to provide strategic community safety action over the past decade, building on the work of the Safety Strategy 2004 and working in collaboration with a wide range of strategic partners.

4.3. Council officers have engaged comprehensively on the topic of community safety with community partners over an extended period. This engagement directly informed the draft Commitment, with further community consultation taking place since February this year through the Your Say Hobart website and further face-to-face meetings with community partners.

4.4. The purpose of the City of Hobart Community Safety Commitment 2019 is to provide information to the community about the actions being undertaken to maintain the City’s reputation as a safe and liveable city, whilst remaining vigilant to emerging issues and trends. The Commitment outlines five broad actions by which to achieve this:

· Partnership and Collaboration

· Recognition of priority populations

· Acting locally on global issues

· Ongoing action

· Flexibility to respond to new and emerging challenges.

4.5. This Community Safety Commitment reflects the community’s aspirations articulated through the Community Vision, providing a framework from which to examine community safety. The Commitment outlines key partnerships and focus areas and sets out clear goals and priorities for action in the coming financial year.

4.6. The City of Hobart has a range of internal and external partners with whom we collaborate and consult with through varying forums to respond to community safety issues. Reference and Advisory Groups form the bedrock of our knowledge and keep us abreast of emerging issues. These forums and partners are identified in the Commitment in order to not only recognise their important work, but to also show the breadth of investment the City of Hobart has in the welfare of its citizens.

4.7. Hobart experiences community safety challenges similar to other Australian and international capital cities. These are global challenges that require nuanced local responses. Three significant global challenges have been identified as having significant impact on our local government area requiring response. These are: safety in public places; alcohol and other drugs; and violence against women and children. The Safety Commitment speaks to what we are already doing in response to these identified issues, as well as listing areas of exploration to enhance the work already being undertaken.

4.8. The format of a concise, annual commitment has been chosen to enable yearly revision of the action items, thereby ensuring responsive outputs.

4.9. The Commitment format provides a short, accessible document that outlines our Approach, Partnership Actions for the Proposal and Implementation.

4.10. It is intended that the Commitment will be reviewed and updated annually in consultation with our community safety partners.

5. Proposal and Implementation

5.1. It is proposed that the Council approve the Community Safety Commitment 2019.

5.2. Council officers will use the Commitment to guide their work over the coming financial year.

5.3. The Community Safety Commitment will be reviewed annually, with input from community partners and a revised Commitment will be developed for each financial year.

6. Strategic Planning and Policy Considerations

6.1. The Community Safety Commitment strongly aligns with and directly responds to the Council-endorsed Hobart: A community vision for our island capital; in particular, to the following:

“Identity Statement 3.4 - Our city feels friendly and safe - but we know not everyone experiences our city this way, and we could do better.

Pillar 1.3.3 - We create and retain spaces where people feel connected with Hobart, each other and the environment, where we are safe, engaged and inspired.”

6.2. The Council’s development of a Community Safety Commitment aligns with Strategic Objective 4.3 of the Capital City Strategic Plan 2015-2025:

“Strategic Objective 4.3: Build community resilience, public health and safety.”

6.3. The Community Safety Commitment strongly aligns with the City of Hobart Social Inclusion Strategy 2014-2019.

6.4. The Safety Commitment also aligns with relevant State Government strategies including: Breaking the Cycle - A Safer Community, The Tasmanian Drug Strategy 2013-2018 and the Towards Zero-Tasmanian Road Safety Strategy 2017-2026.

7. Financial Implications

7.1. There are no financial implications from this report.

8. Legal, Risk and Legislative Considerations

8.1. Legal, risk and legislative considerations are minimal for this proposal. Risks will be monitored throughout the implementation period.

9. Environmental Considerations

9.1. There are no specific environmental considerations as a result of this report, however any projects or initiatives undertaken are in line with the Council’s Towards Zero Waste to Landfill strategy.

10. Social and Customer Considerations

10.1. City of Hobart staff have engaged with a wide range of community partners over an extended period. This engagement has directly informed this final Commitment.

10.2. This Community Safety Commitment reflects the community’s aspirations articulated through the Community Vision and aligns strongly with the Social Inclusion Strategy 2014-2019.

10.3. The Commitment will demonstrate to the community the positive ongoing work of the City in this area and outline our commitment to collaborative action on community safety issues.

11. Marketing and Media

11.1. The Community Safety Commitment will made available on the City of Hobart website.

12. Community and Stakeholder Engagement

12.1. The draft Community Safety Strategy was directly informed by community safety partners during the development phase and they have been invited to have input into the endorsed draft Commitment.

12.1.1. Feedback from these partners has been highly complementary of the Commitment. They have advised that that the areas identified are on point and reflect the types of issues they are seeing in the community. These partners have indicated a willingness to continue to work with the City of Hobart on developing responses to the identified issues.

12.1.2. The suggestion was made to include CatholicCare in the list of community safety partners. As a key member of Networking for Harmony and an active partner with the City of Hobart, CatholicCare have now been included in the final document.

12.1.3. A further suggestion was made to include the homeless in the list of priority populations. This has been added to reflect the importance on focussing on the safety needs of this cohort.

12.2. Broader community engagement on the Commitment was undertaken during March 2019. The Engaged Communities team facilitated consultation through the Your Say Hobart website.

12.2.1. Responses to Your Say Hobart were limited, with a total of four responses. Comments included: concerns at the over emphasis of violence against women and children and the apparent lack of inclusion of violence against men; Council requested to consider residents’ views when Development Applications are submitted by proposed licensed venues; support for increasing and improving CCTV coverage; and support for Council to work with partners to prevent violent deaths such as those experienced in Melbourne.

12.2.1.1. This feedback has been acknowledged and will be considered as safety initiatives are further developed.

12.3. The Community Safety Commitment will be reviewed annually with input from community partners and a new Commitment will be developed each financial year to include minor revisions and new actions.

13. Delegation

13.1. This is a matter for the Council’s determination.

Kimbra Parker

Manager Inclusive, Resilient and Creative Communities

tims short

Tim Short

Director Community Life

Date: 4 July 2019

File Reference: F19/67720; 17/90

Attachment a: Final Community Safety Commitment 2019 ⇩

Item No. 6.5

Agenda (Open Portion)

Community, Culture and Events Committee Meeting

Page 61

10/7/2019

Memorandum: Community, Culture and Events Committee

Housing and Homelessness Update

Introduction
The purpose of this memorandum is to provide the Council with an update on matters relating to the Homelessness Forum and the Greater Hobart Housing Alliance.

Background
At its 3 June 2019 meeting the Council resolved as follows:

The City of Hobart acknowledge the reality of the housing and homelessness crisis and convene and coordinate an urgent meeting to be facilitated by Council officers within the next seven days.

Invitees to the meeting include the Minister for Housing and Human Services Roger Jaensch, social housing, shelter and homelessness service providers, church groups, greater Hobart Councils, Council’s Housing with Dignity Reference Group, federal government representative, relevant businesses and other stakeholders who can assist in immediate solutions to the crisis.

Homelessness Forum
In response to the 3 June 2019 Council decision, a Homelessness Forum was held on 20 June 2019 with invitations sent to a range of key stakeholders representing all levels of government and the community and business sectors.

In attendance on the day were over 50 representatives (attachment A) who discussed a wide range of matters resulting in agreement that a Greater Hobart Housing Alliance be formed.

A copy of the notes from the Forum are provided for Elected Members (attachment B).

Greater Hobart Housing Alliance
The first meeting of the Greater Hobart Housing Alliance was held on 5 July 2019. A copy of the agenda is attached (attachment C).

The Alliance comprises Mayors from Hobart, Clarence, Glenorchy, Kingborough, Huon and Brighton Councils; Department of Communities; TasCOSS; Shelter Tasmania; Housing Support Services; Colony 47; Hobart City Mission; Anglicare; CatholicCare; Salvation Army; the Property Council and Master Builders Australia.

The Alliance is charged with progressing and prioritising the key actions from the Homelessness Forum.

The Lord Mayor attended the meeting along with Councillor Ewin in her capacity as City of Hobart representative on the Housing with Dignity Reference Group. It was noted that the Co-Chair of the Housing with Dignity Reference Group, Alderman Thomas was unable to attend the meeting. Elected Members are advised that the notes from the Housing with Dignity Reference Group are uploaded to the HUB.

The Alliance will continue to meet with further updates on progress to be provided to the Council.

‘Housing All Australians’ Project
As part of the city-wide discussions about solutions to homelessness, a briefing was provided by Robert Pradolin from the national ‘Housing All Australians’ project on 2 July 2019. The ‘Housing All Australians’ strategy is for the provision of pop-up shelters in empty buildings. The group aims to harness the ability of the private sector and collaborate to address the chronic shortage of low income affordable housing. The public event was well attended with approximately 25 people in attendance.

REcommendation

That:

1. That the Council note the discussion notes from the Homelessness Forum.

2. The Council endorse the Lord Mayor’s ongoing participation as the City of Hobart representative on the Greater Hobart Housing Alliance with regular progress updates to be provided to the Council.

N D Heath

General Manager

Date: 5 July 2019

File Reference: F19/91266

Attachment a: Homelessness Forum Attendees ⇩

Attachment b: Homelessness Forum notes ⇩

Attachment c: Greater Hobart Housing Alliance Agenda ⇩

Item No. 7.1

Agenda (Open Portion)

Community, Culture and Events Committee Meeting

Page 78

10/7/2019

7. Motions of which Notice has been Given

7.1 Pill Testing

FILE REF: F19/39420; 13-1-9

Councillor Ewin

Motion

“That in order to minimise the harms associated with illicit drug use at festivals, events, pubs, clubs and venues, Hobart City Council:

1. Provide in-principle support for the provision of drug analysis services (commonly known as pill testing) at major events and festivals held in the City of Hobart.

2. Call on the State Government to commence the necessary action to facilitate a trial of pill testing in Tasmania as soon as possible.

3. Communicates information explaining the purpose of pill testing and the reasoning for the Council’s support to the residents of the city.”

Rationale:

“Pill testing is first and foremost a health issue. A significant number of people attending festivals and venues in the City of Hobart take unlawful drugs contained in pills, powders and liquids. These substances can contain contaminants and uncertain strengths, which can lead to preventable harm and mortality. This harm can be easily avoided by implementing pill testing.

According to research, of 1000 ecstasy users, 70% of pills are taken in a public setting (clubs, dance parties and festivals). Of those surveyed, 82% said they would use pill testing if provided.

Local governments provide or facilitate this service in several European countries including France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Germany and Spain. Domestically, the City of Port Phillip passed a similar motion in 2017, and is renewing its push for the Victorian State government to allow a trial to be implemented.

Pill testing is supported by the Australian Medical Association, The Royal Australiasian College of Physicians, the Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drugs Council of Tasmania, the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, and The Royal Australian College of Medical Practitioners among many others, and is considered best practice and a key harm minimisation strategy for our community.

Pill Testing Australia is the provider for these services. The process for service provision is that of enabling policy, rather than legislative changes (such as decriminalisation or legalisation). Police, government and Pill Testing Australia work together to deliver the service to ensure safety and transparency at all times. People considering using an illicit substance come to a collection point to have the substance tested in order to discover what they really may be taking. Their phones are confiscated to ensure privacy, and they are taken through the process with a qualified chemist and a doctor who explain the makeup and effects of the substance. This enables people to make informed choices about what they are about to do, to understand the risks better, and what to do in the event of an adverse outcome. Throughout the process, people are never advised that it is safe to take drugs, consumption of drugs is never promoted, and people are not judged for the decisions they make in regard to drug use.

Pill Testing Australia provides a free trial for the initial service, so there is no cost to Government or festival/event organisers in the first instance. The service is then costed at $4,000 for each festival/event, which is a cost absorbed by the festival promoters.

At the recent Groovin the Moo festival, the lives of seven young people were potentially saved by a pill testing trial- patrons discarded their drugs after testing alerted them that their pills contained a substance (n-ethylpentylone) which recently caused the deaths of several people in New Zealand.

In the interests of minimising harm to vulnerable members of our community and the recent appetite displayed by members of the State Government to investigate pill testing, I believe now is the perfect time for us to add our voice in support of pill testing.

Further information and resources:

https://www.drugpolicy.org.au/pill_testing

https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/racgp/racgp-president-backs-calls-for-pill-testing-follo

https://ama.com.au/gp-network-news/ama-backs-pill-testing-festivals

https://www.racp.edu.au/news-and-events/media-releases/racp-writes-to-nation-s-leaders-there-is-sufficient-evidence-to-support-pill-testing-trials

https://www.examiner.com.au/story/5896052/calls-voiced-for-pill-test-trial-committee/

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-03-16/pill-testing-in-tasmania-gets-liberal-sue-hickey-support/10903312

http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/january-2019-media_7939.htm

https://www.theguardian.com/news/2017/dec/05/portugals-radical-drugs-policy-is-working-why-hasnt-the-world-copied-it

https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/alcohol/alcohol-tobacco-other-drugs-australia/contents/impacts/health-impacts

https://www.sbs.com.au/news/australia-s-second-pill-testing-trial-in-canberra-overwhelmingly-successful

https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2019/apr/29/pill-testing-at-groovin-the-moo-festival-potentially-saves-seven-lives-organisers-say

https://ndarc.med.unsw.edu.au/node/301000974

https://harmreductionjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12954-018-0216-z

Also please see attachments from the ATDC on FAQs and their position statement (well worth the read)!!”

The General Manager reports:

“In line with the Council’s policy in relation to Notices of Motion, I advise that the matter is considered to be within the jurisdiction of the Hobart City Council as it aligns with strategic objective 4.3 of the Strategic Plan 2015-2025 (Build community resilience, public health and safety).”

Attachment a: Pill Testing Australia - Summary of Discussion

Attachment b: Pill Testing Position Statement

Attachment c: Groves 2018 Article - Worth the Test Pragmatism Pill Test

Item No. 7.2

Agenda (Open Portion)

Community, Culture and Events Committee Meeting

Page 103

10/7/2019

7.2 City of Hobart's Reconciliation Action Plan Commitments

FILE REF: F19/78847; 13-1-9

Councillor Sherlock

Motion

“This motion seeks for the following items to be given consideration in the development of the City of Hobart’s Reconciliation Action Plan Commitments:

1) The development of a sign, or series of signs, at key access points to the city to provide a welcome in the language of our Tasmanian Aboriginal Community/Palawa people and/or an acknowledgment of the Traditional Custodians of the land in Hobart. For example:

a) Signs could be erected alongside existing welcome signs on Davey Street and the Brooker Highway.

b) Community engagement with Tasmanian Aboriginal Community/Palawa people should be undertaken to discuss and agree upon the language, design and theme of each sign.

2) That Council write letters to primary schools, high schools and colleges in the Hobart City Council municipality to encourage the flying of the Aboriginal flag. For example:

a) If the institution currently flies the Aboriginal flag, a letter of acknowledgement and support could be sent.

b) If the institution does not currently fly the Aboriginal flag, a letter of encouragement could be sent alongside relevant literature and information.

c) Consideration could be given regarding the Council’s provision of financial support for institutions to be able to purchase an Aboriginal flag.

d) Council could also write to the State Government to seek encouragement and support for an increased number of schools flying the Aboriginal flag.”

Rationale:

“The land upon which Hobart was built always was and always will be Aboriginal land. Our First Nations People, representing the oldest, continuing culture in the world, are the custodians of this place and as such should be recognised visually at the entry points to our city and through the flying of the Aboriginal flag within the context of institutions of education and learning.

The Community Vision for our Island Capital document includes the following statements that directly support this motion:

We are proud of our history, lineage and ancestry (Identity Statement 2.1).

We recognise the Tasmanian Aboriginal community and their heritage and culture as the foundation of this place (Pillar 2.1.1).

These statements directly lend support to the following aims of the project to develop a Reconciliation Action Plan as included in the Report dated 6 February 2019:

2.4.4 Increasing the visibility of the Aboriginal Community, language, heritage and culture across Hobart, both for residents of and visitors to our city.

2.4.6 Showing leadership on reconciliation in Tasmania and demonstrating the importance and value in reconciliation to the broader community thereby increasing our reputation as an inclusive, proactive and connected City.

Historically, in Tasmania there has been a lack of recognition of the Tasmanian Aboriginal Community/Palawa people and of the 40,000 plus years of culture and history. While history cannot be changed, it is imperative that we take heartfelt and practical steps to visually recognise our heritage as a country, and specifically within the local communities around Hobart.

Many Councils around the country (see attached Appendix A) have led by example through the development of welcome signs and similar visual acknowledgements. They demonstrate the multifaceted ways in which language and symbols play a significant role in recognition and equitable treatment of our First Nations People.

It is noted that whilst education is the role of the State Government, the Council can, nevertheless, encourage a culture of respect, awareness and recognition across educational institutions within our city, something which seems vital for our younger generation of citizens.

Out of respect for our people, our history and moving forward through collaboration, this motion seeks to visually pay respect to elders past, present and emerging.”

The General Manager reports:

“In line with the Council’s policy in relation to Notices of Motion, I advise that the matter is considered to be within the jurisdiction of the Hobart City Council as it aligns with the Council’s consideration of a Reconciliation Action Plan.”

Attachment a: Welcoming Signs

about people	We value people – our community, our customers and colleagues.
professional	We take pride in our work.
enterprising	We look for ways to create value.
responsive	We’re accessible and focused on service.
inclusive	We respect diversity in people and ideas.
making a difference	We recognise that everything we do shapes Hobart’s future.