2012-2013 - limestone coast · chief executive officer report 3 i am pleased to present this...
TRANSCRIPT
2012-2013
Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast acknowledges and thanks
our core funding partners for their support
SOUTH EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
INCORPORATING:
tAbLe of Contents
CHAIR REPORT ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 2
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER REPORT .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 3
HIGHLIGHTS ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 4
STRATEGIC CONTEXT ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 5
REGIONAL OVERVIEW ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
RDA ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
VISION .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 6
MISSION .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
5 KEY AREAS FOR RDA ACTION FROM THE 2010 - 2015 REGIONAL ROADMAP, 2012 UPDATE ........................................................................................................................... 7
BOARD MEMBERS ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
STAFF MEMBERS ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS 2012/13 SUMMARY AGAINST STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT TARGETS ....................................................................................................... 9
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS SUMMARY TOWARDS COMMONWEALTH OBJECTIVES .............................................................................................................................................. 10
STATISTICS .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 11
ENqUIRIES BY PROGRAM ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 11
BUSINESS RESULTS WHERE THE BOARD HAS PROVIDED SERVICES ................................................................................................................................................................................ 11
SKILLS FOR ALL IN REGIONS PROGRAM ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 11
FORUMS/WORKSHOPS .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
OVERVIEW OF 2012/13 ACTIVITIES AND ACTIONS ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 13
STRATEGIC ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
SMALL BUSINESS ADVISORY SERVICE ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
SMALL BUSINESS ADVISOR ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
SUMMARY OF BUSINESS ENqUIRIES ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 21
SKILLS FOR ALL IN REGIONS .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 24
SKILLS, CAREER AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 25
CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 25
APPRENTICESHIP TRAINEESHIP ADVISER (ATA) PROJECT ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 31
SCHOOL BUSINESS COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP BROKER PROGRAM .............................................................................................................................................................. 32
HEADING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 33
NETWORKS AND ALLIANCES ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 35
TOURISM INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 36
EXPORT ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 39
AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 40
ACRONYMS ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 44
1
2012 -
2013
ChAiR RepoRt
As required in the operation
funding contract with the
Commonwealth of Australia
and the funding agreement
between the South Australian
State Government and the
South East Local Government
Association, I am pleased to
present the 2012/13 Annual
Report of Regional Development
Australia Limestone Coast.
As part of the board renewal
process it has been a pleasure
to confirm Mike Ryan’s role as
the CEO of the RDA. The field
of applicants was considerable
and talented; this alone is an indicator of the interest in working in
a key regional role. Mike has established himself as the leader of the
organisation, and has worked assiduously in building positive and
professional relationships with our many stakeholders locally, and across
the State and nationally. Mike has been proactive in profiling the work of
the RDA, and the challenges and opportunities facing the region.
A major focus for the region has been the ongoing health and viability of
the forestry industry, and while the region as a whole is still somewhat
depressed, a greater optimism is evident. The genuine support and
involvement of State Government and key Ministries has been well
received. The Economic Diversification forums and report have been a
catalyst for change. The considerable investment in the region with the
SESAIIF funds being awarded to innovative, local companies has been
a significant fillip to the region. Grants totalling nearly $5.54M were
offered to 17 successful applicants under Round 2 of the fund.
Of considerable and potential long lasting impact has been the South
Australian Cellulosic Value Chain Technology project funded by
DMITRE. The RDA has been pleased to support this project being led
by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland. The objective of the study
has been to consider the renewable forestry resources, and provide
recommendations for improvements not only in traditional sawn
timber production, but also in higher value bioenergy, biochemical and
biomaterials. An emerging focus has been in developing co-operative
industry clusters supported by applied research and innovation.
The RDA has now supported the process for five rounds of the RDAF
funds. In the most recent rounds, a number of projects have been
successful and these include: Keith and District Sport and Recreation
Centre upgrade project receiving $800,000 under Round 2, Mundulla
Bowling Club Greens upgrade project receiving $115,600 under Round
3 and the Port MacDonnell Marine Infrastructure Development project
receiving $726,127 under Round 4. Round 5 also provides strong support
for Local Government with potential additional funds for each Local
Government Area in the region, in total, a further $953,405 in funds for
the Limestone Coast.
Members of the RDA have attended the National RDA Conference in
Canberra and this was combined with the National Local Government
Conference, further cementing the close working relationship of RDAs
with local government associations. RDA members also attended the
RDSA Infrastructure Conference in the Barossa, a conference continuing
the national focus on re-investment in key regional infrastructure. In
the Limestone Coast we have sustained our focus on supporting and
advocating for the upgrade of the bridges associated with the drainage
network, affordable access to three phase power, and the ongoing need
for improvements in the road, rail and airport infrastructure.
A highlight for the region has been the announcement of the expansion
of the UniSA site in Mount Gambier and the associated high speed ICT
infrastructure, this connected with the bringing forward of the arrival
of the National Broadband Network (NBN), with all parts of the region
now included on the 3 year rollout plan for work commencement, means
that the region will be better connected and able to access national and
global markets more effectively.
The Board has welcomed a number of new members, Cr Darren O’Halloran
as a SELGA nominee, and Alan Richardson, Karen Glover and Lew Parsons
as community members. We are pleased to have such committed and
outstanding members, working together on behalf of the region.
The dedicated board staff while being small in number, have worked
tirelessly on behalf of the region and community. These staff have
worked positively and proactively with staff who deliver a diverse range
of State and National programs hosted by the RDA Board. I wish to thank
each and every one for their work and commitment.
Of course this work would not be possible without the ongoing funding
support from our core partners; this three way agreement is unique
and provides a model across Australia for collaborative action and we
look forward to strengthening our collaborative working partnership in
13/14. Thank you to:
• The Commonwealth of Australia • The State Government • The South East Local Government Association and the seven member
Councils
A comprehensive overview of the activities of the board, and staff at
both a strategic and operational perspective are further outlined in this
report.
Ruth Schubert CHAIR
2
2012-2013
Chief exeCutive offiCeR RepoRt
3
I am pleased to present this
overview of programs and
services delivered by Regional
Development Australia Limestone
Coast for the 2012/13 financial
year. Board Staff have been busy
working with business, industry
and community groups right
across the region.
It has been a challenging year
for the region with a number of
industries affected by downturns,
difficult economic conditions and
uncertainty affecting consumer
confidence. I am very pleased that
a number of initiatives undertaken
in the region over the past year in which RDALC played a part are
helping to provide a way forward for the region and are providing
renewed optimism and confidence in the future. These include the
conditions around the sale of ForestrySA forward rotations negotiated
by the Forestry Roundtable, the ongoing work stemming from the
Limestone Coast Economic Diversification Forum held in September and
the Cellulosic Fibre Study being undertaken by the VTT Research Centre
from Finland on the future opportunities for the forestry and forest
products industry in this region. A strong strategic vision for the future
and cooperative and collaborative alliances with business, industry and
government partners to maximise opportunities across our region are
vital at this time.
2012/13 has seen the continuation of many of our core service delivery
programs, namely the Small Business Advisory Service; Skills for All
in Regions; Career Development Centre; Partnership Broker project;
the Tourism Industry Development program and TradeStart Program.
We have also successfully attracted funding from the Commonwealth
Government to provide a Small Business Advisory Service focusing on
the mid to upper part of our region to better service the council areas
of Tatiara, Naracoorte Lucindale, Kingston and Robe. None of these
programs would be possible without funding support from various
Commonwealth and State Government Departments, who are listed
individually throughout this report, and I thank all of these partners
for their willingness to continue to support our regional development
efforts across the Limestone Coast over the past year.
We are very pleased to have the commitment of support from two of
our core funding partners into the future with the Commonwealth
Government committing to RDA funding for a further three years to June
2016 and the South East Local Government Association committing to
funding for a further two years. We are pleased to be able to continue
to assist the State Government through the delivery of a number of its
programs and projects.
The Board also plays a support role for regional organisations that are
co-located within the Old Town Hall building, including the South East
Local Government Association and South East Resource Information
Centre. It is these underpinning roles that often go un-noticed to the
wider community, but which is integral to sustainable and cost effective
structures for small regional organisations.
This past year saw the departure of our Chair Mark Braes for a ministerial
appointment in Adelaide and Board member Sally Klose to take up a
position with the Naracoorte Lucindale Council. I thank Mark for his
valuable contribution and the support he provided for me during his
time as Chair of our Board and thank Sally for her valuable contribution
during her time on the Board. My thanks go to our new Chair Dr Ruth
Schubert and members of the Board for your leadership and support
during the past 12 months, it is highly valued and appreciated. I also
wish to express my thanks and appreciation to our team of dedicated and
committed Staff, particularly for your extra efforts during challenging
periods in a changing environment. We have welcomed a number of new
staff and bid farewell to a number of others who have chosen to pursue
other career interests.
RDALC undertakes a wide range of programs and activities and I trust
that this report will provide an appropriate insight to our stakeholders
and the wider community into the important work being undertaken by
Members and Staff.
Mike Ryan CHIEf ExECUTIVE OffICER
2012 -
2013
$1.64m of grants to the region for projects totalling $4.7m under the Regional
Development Australia Fund Rounds 2, 3 and 4
4,702 enquiries handled byBoard Staff
A.G.o.G. A Girls Only Gathering
gave 90 young women the opportunity to hear inspiring
speakers, have new experiences and explore their career direction
Limestone Coast economic Diversification forum
RDALC is part of the reference group progressing forum
outcomes
Regional intelligence to various Commonwealth and State
Government agencies
vtt Cellulosic fibre study RDA CEO part of Steering Committee directing study for the Forestry Industry
Future Prospects
heading in the RightDirection program
Offered opportunities for refugee young people who attend schools in the region to develop skills to
manage their careers
skills for All in Regions 392 participants, 113
employment outcomes and 175 pathway outcomes met
under the Skills for All in Regions program
small business Advisors Handled a total of 317 business
enquiries throughout the 7 Councils in the Limestone Coast
Ongoing delivery of the Partnership Broker Program
sesAiif Assisted with SESAIIF program
rollout, Round 2 projects resulting in a potential $19.7m in investment and 142.5 jobs
being created
Cluster Development Facilitated workshops and
briefings on Cluster Development in the region
Career Development Centre celebrated 7 years of operation with 1,148 people assisted with a large variety of career advice
tourism Secured 5 cruise ships to visit
the region over the next 3 years which will bring over 9000 passengers into the region
export Assisted 11 companies
achieve an export result to the total value of $9.5m in
overseas export sales
hiGhLiGhts
4
2012-2013
ReGionAL oveRvieW
The Limestone Coast Region (South East of South Australia) lies midway
between the capital cities of Adelaide and Melbourne, covering the
south-eastern section of South Australia and encompasses the Local
Government Areas of the City of Mount Gambier; District Councils of
Grant, Kingston, Robe and Tatiara; and the Naracoorte Lucindale and
Wattle Range Councils.
The Limestone Coast region supports a population of 63, 077 people (ABS
Census 2011) with 40% (or 25,804 people) living in the Mount Gambier
Local Government Area (LGA). When combined with the Grant and
Wattle Range LGAs, the Lower South East area accounts for 70% of the
region’s population, leading to a centralisation of services and greater
employment opportunities in that area. The City of Mount Gambier is
the second largest City in South Australia, behind only Adelaide and
together with a number of towns across the region, including Naracoorte,
Millicent, Penola, Bordertown, Keith, Robe, Kingston and Lucindale,
provides a range of business, retail and community services.
Australian born people make up 86.7% of the population of the region.
Recent migration, principally from New Zealand, United Kingdom,
Philippines and India, has added to the contribution made by post war
emigration from the United Kingdom, Italy and The Netherlands. Refugee
arrivals since 2007 have been primarily from Burma and the Democratic
Republic of the Congo. The Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander population
grew slightly from 776 people in 2006 to 1,094 people in 2011 and has
a young profile with 48.26% under the age of 20 years.
Together with the neighbouring Western Districts of Victoria, this wider
region is often referred to as the Green Triangle Region and represents
a very important political, community and industry based alliance.
There is a real connection between the communities comprising
the Green Triangle, geographically in terms of proximity to the State
capitals of Adelaide and Melbourne; at Local Government level where
the cooperation for strategic purposes is very deliberate; and across
businesses and the communities through sport, cultural and social
interactions.
One of the key political and marketing strengths of each part of the
region is the ability to unite under the Green Triangle banner.
The region supports many of South Australia’s key resource based
companies and covers an area of some 21,337 square kilometres with
fertile soils, reliable rainfall and significant groundwater resources.
Key regional industries include
agriculture, forestry (which
includes wood processing); wine
(viticulture and winemaking);
fishing/aquaculture; tourism;
dairy; horticulture; beef cattle;
dairy; sheep; grain and seed
production; manufacturing; retail
trade; education; health and
community services; construction;
accommodation, cafes and
restaurants; and transport.
The climate is characterised by
cool wet winters and mild to hot,
dry summers. Average annual
rainfall varies considerably, from
approximately 850mm in the south
of the region to 450mm in the north
of the region.
stRAteGiC Context
5
2012 -
2013
RDA RoLe & ResponsibiLities
Regional Development Australia (RDA) is a partnership between three
levels of Government:-
• Australian Government through the Department of Regional Australia, Local Government, Arts and Sport;
• State Government through the Department of Primary Industries and Regions SA (PIRSA);
• Local Government through the South East Local Government Association (SELGA) (comprising the City of Mount Gambier; District
Councils of Grant, Kingston, Robe and Tatiara; and the Naracoorte
Lucindale and Wattle Range Councils).
RDA is based on building partnerships between governments, regional
development organisations, the private sector and other key regional
stakeholders to provide a strategic and targeted response to issues
in each region and to facilitate community leadership and resilience.
RDA will work with all stakeholders to develop and strengthen local
communities.
The RDA:-
• Supports informed regional planning; • Consults and engages with the community on economic, social and
environmental issues, solutions and priorities;
• Liaises with governments and local communities about government programs, services, grants and initiatives for regional development
and;
• Contributes to business growth plans and investment strategies, environmental solutions and social inclusion strategies in their
region.
RDALC also provides a service delivery role through the ongoing provision
of business assistance programs such as:-
• Skills for All in Regions • Small Business Advisory Services • Career Development Centre • Partnership Broker Program • Tourism Industry Development • Apprenticeship Adviser Project • Export (Austrade programs)
RDA Limestone Coast also played a hosting role with Officers from the
following organisations co-located within the Old Town Hall Building in
Mount Gambier:-
• SELGA • South East Resource Information Centre (SERIC) • AusIndustry • Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
(DEEWR)
• Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology (DFEEST)
• Australian Sports Commission • South Australian Tourism Commission
Mission
To ensure the longer term growth and sustainability of the Limestone
Coast Region and the well-being of its community, through:-
• Provision of leadership, co-ordination and expertise across all areas of regional development.
• Ongoing engagement with the community and the provision of advice, information and feedback to Governments, policy makers and
stakeholders regarding issues and activities that are important to the
development and wellbeing of the Limestone Coast Region.
• Promotion and support of the policies, strategic plans and priorities of the Commonwealth, the State Government and Local Government that
facilitate community economic development outcomes in the region.
• Provision of services and undertaking projects that facilitate community economic development outcomes in the region.
Vision“The Limestone Coast is a dynamic and
sustainable ‘food bowl’ region of Australia.
Prime grass fed livestock and agricultural food
production, wine, fishing and plantation forestry
drive a diverse, globally competitive economy
where community well being and lifestyle are
highly valued.”
6
2012-2013
5 key AReAs foR RDA ACtion fRoM the 2010 - 2015 ReGionAL RoADMAp, 2012 upDAte
• Economic Development The Limestone Coast region may not reach its full economic potential
without significant Government input in planning for regional growth.
A concentrated effort is required to capitalise on the natural resource
base of the region to increase food production outputs across the whole
chain, maximise value adding opportunities, leverage greater investment
in tourism development and support innovation in industry and small
business growth.
The RDA will undertake a representative and facilitation role to
encourage and support investment across the whole economic
development spectrum and work closely with the NRM Board to ensure
all development encompasses sustainable and innovative natural
resource management.
• Infrastructure To achieve population growth and overall economic development
within the Limestone Coast region, significant investment is required to
maintain and construct supporting infrastructure.
The RDA will work collaboratively with all levels of Government and
the private sector, to drive and secure planned investments in strategic
infrastructure projects.
• Population Growth, Skills, Leadership Development It is widely acknowledged across the Limestone Coast region that our
key natural assets, a diverse economy and the management structure
for innovative and sustainable use of groundwater resources, provide a
real opportunity for population growth and for the region to markedly
increase its contribution to State and National development. Sustainable
economic development will be the key driver for population growth
across our region.
The RDA will act to facilitate population growth and to encourage and
foster skills and leadership development.
• Tourism, Lifestyle, Promotion The Limestone Coast boasts wonderful lifestyle opportunities, however,
consultation undertaken by the RDA indicated that more can be done
to promote those lifestyle experiences and opportunities, which will
act as a catalyst for strong growth in the number of people visiting or
relocating to the Limestone Coast region.
The RDA will work collaboratively with all levels of Government and play
a stronger role in promoting growth opportunities across the region.
• Community Wellbeing Access to services and facilities for the delivery of health and personal
care across the Limestone Coast region will underpin the key strategies
for population growth and economic development.
The RDA will consult with, and advocate on behalf of, community and
health care bodies, to assist and support regional efforts for increased
health and aged care services, and play a leadership role in the
coordination of a whole of region Social Inclusion Action Plan.
7
2012 -
2013
boARD MeMbeRs
Dr Ruth Schubert Chair, Community representative (appointed as Chair on 05/03/13)
Ms Gwenda Lawlor Deputy Chair, Treasurer, Community representative (appointed as Deputy Chair on 05/03/13)
Mayor Erika Vickery Secretary, SELGA representative
Mr Rob Foggo Community representative
Ms Nadine DiGiorgio Community representative
Ms Ann Aldersey Community representative
Mr Alan Richardson Community representative (from 15/10/12)
Mr Lew Parsons Community representative (from 15/04/13)
Ms Karen Glover Community representative (from 15/04/13)
Mayor Richard Vickery SELGA representative
Cr Harvey Nolan SELGA representative
Mr Darren O’Halloran SELGA representative (from 15/10/12)
outgoing board Members
Ms Sally Klose Community Representative (until15/10/12)
Mr Mark Braes Chair, Community Representative (until 14/09/12)
observers Representatives of both State and Commonwealth Government are invited to attend all meetings of the Board.
stAff MeMbeRs
based in the old town hall, Mount Gambier:
Mr Mike Ryan Chief Executive Officer
Mrs Helen Strickland Manager - Skills, Career and Workforce Development
Mrs Michaela Bell Business Development Officer (from 01/12/12)
Mrs Biddie Shearing Tourism Development Officer
Mr Stephen Chapple Small Business Advisor (from 11/02/13)
Mrs Mae Steele Project Officer - Employment and Training Programs (from 28/01/13)
Ms Gina Ploenges Apprenticeship Traineeship Adviser (from 8/08/12)
Mrs Janette Newport Project Officer - Partnership Broker Program (25/02/13)
Ms Anne Mulraney Apprenticeship Traineeship Adviser (from 25/03/13)
Mrs Nikki Peterse Executive Assistant
Mrs Jan Shanahan Finance Officer
Ms Julie Scott Administration Officer
Miss Dani McKinnon Trainee Receptionist (from 07/01/13)
Ms Julie Johnson Workforce Development Coordinator (until 16/11/12)
Apprenticeship Traineeship Adviser (from 17/11/12 until 07/02/13)
Miss Lorelie Ellis Receptionist (until 03/08/12)
based at the Career Development Centre, Mount Gambier:
Mr Martin Montgomery Career Development Practitioner
Mrs Charmaine Lawrie Career Development Practitioner (from 16/07/12)
Mrs Julie Mattinson Project Officer - Partnership Broker Program (from 02/10/12)
Ms Maree Beale Administration Officer - Partnership Broker Program
Mrs Julie Walker Administration Officer - Career Development Centre (from 04/03/13)
Ms Emma Handford Project Officer - Partnership Broker Program (until 11/01/13)
Ms Ali Auld Career Development Practitioner (until 27/09/12)
Miss Caitlin Lewis Trainee (until 07/09/12)
Ms Stacey Burden Receptionist (from 03/09/12 until 21/12/12)
based in naracoorte office:
Mr Bruce Rodda* Export Advisor (*employed by DMITRE, working in collaboration with the Board through a contractual agreement)
Ms Sarah Norris Administration Officer
8
2012-2013
key peRfoRMAnCe inDiCAtoRs 2012/13 suMMARy AGAinst stAte & LoCAL GoveRnMent tARGets
9
outcome key performance indicators targets outcomes
Investment • Number of businesses assisted, and the value of investment by businesses assisted
• 100 businesses (The target number does not include all business contacts which is estimated at a further 400)
• $5 m investment
• 162 businesses (330 general enquiries BDO/CEO - does not include TIDO, SBA etc)
• $33,125,031 investment by businesses (Plus project/program delivery funding of $2,471,365)
• Number of local businesses assisted to participate in major projects, and the value of local content secured
• 2 business• $2m local content
• NIL• NIL
Employment • Number of jobs (FTE’s) created and retained in businesses assisted
• 25 jobs created (This number does not include employment outcomes or training hours delivered through the Skills for All program)
• 10 jobs retained
• 143.5 jobs created(Through the Skills for All in Regions (formerly SA Works) program there have been a total of 350 participants with over 200 outcomes (pathway and employment)
Skills • Identification of emerging labour skills issues in the region
• Programs developed with State and Local Government and industry to meet workforce demands
• 3 skills issues identified
• 3 programs developed
• 7 identified
• 6 programs(Apprenticeship Adviser Program; Partnership Broker Program; Skills for All in Regions; Heading in the Right Direction; Career Development Centre; Workforce Development Coordinator)
Exports • Number of exporters assisted and value of their export
• 10 exporters• $3m of exports
• 11 exporters• $9,465,690
Infrastructure • Number and value of economic infrastructure development projects assisted
• 6 projects• $10m value
• 8 projects• $13,980,017
(This includes $9,261,685 of funding through SESAIFF program and $4,718,332 of funding through RDAF Rounds 2, 3 & 4)
Innovation • Number of businesses assisted to bring new products to the market
• Number of businesses assisted to introduce processes that boost productivity and competitiveness
• 3 businesses with new products• 3 businesses introducing
processes
• 9 business with new products• 7 businesses introducing processes to boost
productivity
Population • Share of State’s population • 5.0% • 3.9%
Business CapabilityDevelopment
• Number of workshops and participating businesses, and outcomes achieved for businesses
• 10 workshops• 200 participants
• 14 workshops/forums• 603 participants
Regional Leadership
• Identification of barriers to regional growth and mitigation strategies
• Demonstration of leadership provided by the Association in community in building the capacity in the region
• Effective working relationships and collaboration with DTED, the Councils and Government agencies
• Provision of regional intelligence to Government on significant economic development issues and opportunities across the regions
• 5 barriers; 2 strategies
• To be reported case by case
• To be reported case by case
• To be reported case by case
• 28 barriers, 9 strategies
• 61
• Refer to general section of report
• 56
2012 -
2013
Outcome 1 – Improved Community and Economic Development
Outcome 2 – Enhanced Community Engagement and Consultation
Outcome 3 – Improved Regional Planning
Outcome 4 – Enhanced Whole-of-Government approach Outcome 5 – Enhanced Awareness of Government programs
Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast has two separate core
funding agreements, each with specific reporting requirements against
set outcomes and targets.
The outcomes listed above and set by the Commonwealth Government
are broad based strategic actions which are complementary to those
specific activities of the RDA which target investment, employment, skills
development, trade related and infrastructure development projects.
Outcomes against the Commonwealth Government objectives are
reported comprehensively to the Government under the terms of our
funding agreement.
Those outcomes and actions of the RDA in addressing each specific
criterion, are contained within the general reporting context of this
annual report.
10
key peRfoRMAnCe inDiCAtoRs suMMARy toWARDs CoMMonWeALth objeCtives
2012-2013
stAtistiCs
11
service/project investment partner
Small Business Advisory ServiceLower South East
$73,540 Department of Primary Industries & Regions SA
Small Business Advisory Service Mid to Upper South East
$102,100 Department of Industry, Innovation, Climate Change, Science, Research and Tertiary Education
TradeStart Program (Export Advisor) $25,000 Department of Manufacturing, Innovation, Trade, Resources and Energy
Partnership Broker Program $1.6m (over 4 years) Department of Education, Employment & Workplace Relations
Tourism Development $118,950 South East Local Government Association, South Australian Tourism Commission, Limestone Coast Tourism
Apprenticeship Adviser Program $352,181 Department of Industry, Innovation, Climate Change, Science, Research & Tertiary Education
Skills for All in Regions $90,000 Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology
Heading in the Right Direction $36,000 Department of Education, Employment & Workplace Relations
Regional Business Sustainability – Competitive Business Program
$30,000 Department of Manufacturing, Innovation, Trade, Resources and Energy
enQuiRies by pRoGRAM
business ResuLts WheRe the boARD hAs pRoviDeD seRviCes
skiLLs foR ALL in ReGions pRoGRAM
Small Business Advisory Service - Lower South East 230
Small Business Advisory Service - Mid to Upper South East (from Feb 2013) 87
General - CEO, Executive Assistant 98
Tourism Development Officer 1,854
Export Advisor 57
Career Development Centre 1,148
Apprenticeship Traineeship Adviser 1,228
4,702
Investment by companies in business establishment and growth $33,125,031
Export sales achieved by local companies $9,465,690
Anticipated outcomes
Program funding received $393,202
Total employment outcomes 113
Pathway Outcomes 175
Total participants 392
2012 -
2013
foRuMs/WoRkshops
No. of Participants
On-Line Workshop 45
Tourism Website Training 7
Clusters Workshop 25
Family Business Australia Workshop 19
VTT Cellulosic Fibre Study Briefing 80
Reserve Bank Roundtable 9
Dairy Innovation Day 210
PIRSA Clustering Workshop 28
Facebook and Twitter for Business 145
Bordertown Business Association WHS 35
603
12
2012-2013
SOUTH EAST SOUTH AUSTRALIA INNOVATION INVESTMENT fUND
(SESAIIf)
South East South Australia Innovation Investment Fund Round 2 saw 17
regional companies offered grants totally $5,536,341 for projects with
an expected total investment of $19,715,868 with potential for 142.5
jobs.
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUSTRALIA fUND (RDAf)
• Keith and District Sport and Recreation Centre were successful in obtaining $800,000 from the Commonwealth Government’s RDAF
Round 2, to establish a new two court stadium for indoor recreational
activities and sports, redevelop club-house facilities and upgrade
existing tennis and outdoor netball courts. The total project will see
an investment of some $1,714,789 into the local community.
• Mundulla Bowling Club were successful in obtaining $115,600 from the Commonwealth Government’s RDAF Round 3, to replace existing
grass green with a new synthetic carpet bowling green, renew the
plinths to build a new base and install a new drainage system. The
total project will see an investment of some $231,200 into the local
community.
• District Council of Grant were successful in obtaining $726,127 for the upgrade of the Port MacDonnell Marina from the Commonwealth
Government’s RDAF Round 4 to construct a 90 metre concrete wharf
as an extension to the existing facility at Port MacDonnell. The total
project will see an investment of $2,772,343.
• RDALC Board Staff have fielded a host of enquiries in relation to potential RDAF Fund applications. RDALC Members also undertook
a prioritisation process of the Expressions of Interest received under
RDAF Round 3 and Round 4.
• Letters of support were provided to all proponents from the Limestone Coast region that were invited to submit applications to Rounds 3 and
4 of the Regional Development Australia Fund.
SOUTH EAST fORESTRY PARTNERSHIPS PROGRAM
RDA Limestone Coast participated in the State Government’s briefing in
relation to the $27m South East Forestry Partnerships Program.
Five timber companies received funding through the South East Forestry
Partnerships Program which provides assistance to the private sector for
capital investment, particularly in new plant and equipment. The value
to the expected investment is $8,690,831.
LIMESTONE COAST ECONOMIC DIVERSIfICATION REfERENCE
GROUP
• RDALC participated in the Steering Committee responsible for the organisation of the Limestone Coast Economic Diversification Forum
coordinated by the State Government. RDALC also participated in the
Forum itself and assisted with administrative requirements.
• Ongoing assistance was provided to the State Government in relation to the Economic Diversification Forum. A follow up meeting was held
to outline recommendations from that initial meeting and to progress
the Strategy that emerged from these discussions.
• RDALC played an important role as part of the Limestone Coast Diversification Reference Group which continues to meet regularly.
SELGA and PIRSA have contributed $10,000 each towards consultant
and other costs associated with this group.
• RDALC provided input into a regional submission by the Limestone Coast Economic Diversification Working Group, into the Premium Food
and Wine from our Clean Environment Concept statement.
• Regional intelligence was provided to SA Forestry Industry Advisory Board in respect to current progress with the Limestone Coast
Economic Diversification Strategy.
• As part of the Limestone Coast Economic Diversification Reference Group, RDALC assisted with the development of presentations to the
Senior Officers Group for both Growing Advanced Manufacturing and
Premium Food and Wine from our Clean Environment. RDALC also
participated in a Livestock Focus Forum undertaken as part of the
ongoing work of the working group.
stRAteGiC
oveRvieW of 2012/13 ACtivities AnD ACtions
13
2012 -
2013
VTT CELLULOSIC fIBRE STUDY
• RDALC assisted with hosting a presentation to forest industry companies by Dr Goran Roos and representatives from VTT Technical
Research Centre of Finland on a proposed cellulose fibre value chain
study.
• RDALC also undertook a project management role for The Cellulosic Fibre Study Project being undertaken by Finland based VTT Technical
Research Group, through funding provided by the Department of
Manufacturing, Innovation, Trade, Resources and Energy (DMITRE).
Activities included coordination of and participation in monthly
Steering Committee meetings.
• RDALC facilitated and participated in a visit to the Port of Portland with a representative of DMITRE. Issues discussed included commodity
pricing and opportunities through VTT Cellulose Fibre Study.
• Regional intelligence provided to a representative of the Port of Melbourne in respect to the VTT Forestry Study.
NBN ROLLOUT
• An application was submitted to the NBN Readiness Funding seeking $24,150 for the development of a strategic plan for action leading up
to the NBN rollout. Although unsuccessful, other avenues to undertake
this initiative are currently being pursued.
• RDALC participated in a briefing by the NBN Co in relation to the network extension policy and also participated in a briefing by NBN Co
in relation to the rollout of fixed wireless and satellite services.
CLUSTERS
• Participated in a Clusters workshop convened by DMITRE and presented by Ifor Ffowcs-Williams as a lead in to potential cluster workshops in
the region in late 2012.
• Participated in a two day workshop in Adelaide outlining the concept of clustering and the potential benefits for regional companies.
• Discussed cluster funding proposal rollout with representatives from PIRSA.
REGIONAL ROADMAP
• An application was submitted to the State Government Regional Development Fund Stream 1 which was successful. Funding is for
the implementation of strategic initiatives outlined in the Regional
Roadmap for the 2013/14 financial year.
• The August update of the Limestone Coast Regional Roadmap 2010-2015 was distributed to business, industry, government and community
stakeholders.
• Attended the Barwon South West RDA Board Meeting and gave a formal presentation in respect to our Roadmap and priority actions,
as well as providing an update on the forestry, dairy and alternative
energy industries and the current status of the Green Triangle Freight
Action Plan.
• Feedback provided to the Commonwealth Government in relation to the revised Regional Plan (Roadmap) template to be implemented on
1st July 2013.
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT SOUTH AUSTRALIA (RDSA)
• RDALC CEO and Chair have participated in regular meetings of Regional Development South Australia CEOs and Chairs. During the
year various topics have been discussed including ongoing State
Government funding to the RDA framework post June 2013 and
issues of common interest and avenues for ongoing promotion of the
RDA frameworks. RDSA in conjunction with the Local Government
Association of SA commissioned the SA Centre for Economic Studies
(SACES) to undertake a study around the value of the RDA framework
to South Australia, and RDALC provided input into this study.
• Presentations were received from Catherine Barnett of Food SA and Ian Nightingale of PIRSA, which also provided an opportunity to have
discussions around the cooperative working relationships between
RDAs and these organisations.
14
2012-2013
OTHER
• RDALC CEO participated in a breakfast meeting with Minister Kenyon around the Skills for All in Regions program and addressed the Skills
for All Regional Network meeting attended by the Minister and the
Chief Executive of DFEEST. The CEO provided an overview of the region
and the RDAs role in supporting the Skills for All program.
• RDALC provided statistical information to District Council of Grant to assist with a proposal regarding a Fly-in Fly-out hub for Mount
Gambier and also met with the Mayor and CEO to discuss potential
assistance, status of the airport upgrade and the likelihood of
attracting an additional airline.
• Chair and CEO met with the Small Business Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner in relation to their role and provided regional
intelligence.
• Feedback provided to South Australian Centre for Economic Studies on behalf of PIRSA, in relation to the development of a regional
statement.
• Assisted the Economic Development Board (Department of Premier and Cabinet) with dissemination of invitations to a Regional Branding
Seminar held in Mount Gambier, with a focus on the tourism and
export sectors.
• Participated in a briefing in relation to an Accelerated Skills Hub proposal which is aimed at maximising opportunities from within the
mining sector.
• Feedback provided to the Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology in relation to regional processes
for gathering information on critical skills needs.
• Correspondence sent to Minister Gago in relation to the forward sale of ForestrySA forward rotations process. Chair Mark Braes met with
Minister Gago on 14/9/12 to further discuss.
• Correspondence sent to Minister Gago in relation to the State Government seven priority areas and linkages with the work of
RDALC.
• Input provided to the State Government in relation to updating their Major Projects Directory.
• Correspondence sent to Minister Hill supporting calls for the provision of an MRI scanner within the Limestone Coast region.
• Invitation submitted to The Campbell Group to meet with the RDALC to discuss their recent purchase of the ForestrySA forward rotations.
• Discussions held with PIRSA representatives in relation to the establishment of a forest industry regional group.
• Provided information to Department for Planning, Transport and Infrastructure on projected wood flows in the Green Triangle Region.
• Meeting with representatives of Zero Waste in respect to their role in assisting businesses in the region.
• Meeting with SELGA and DEWNR representatives regarding a proposal for submission of a funding application for Climate Change
Sustainability under the Natural Disaster Resilience Grants Scheme.
• Meeting held with representatives of DFEEST in respect to the roll out of assistance services for recently retrenched workers from regional
businesses.
• Engaged ‘Dream Australia’ to produce TV and Video podcast story featuring local interview, aimed at attracting new residents to the
region.
• CEO part of the Naracoorte Caves Master Plan Working Group, seeking to identify and prioritise investment needed for enhanced visitor
experiences.
• Worked with Regional Development Australia in relation to a new booklet and website promoting the RDA network.
• CEO participated in Regional Tertiary Education Project Focus Group to provide feedback to UniSA on collaborative efforts with TAFE SA.
• CEO attended briefing by UniSA on capability and implications for regional capacity of communications infrastructure to be installed as
part of Higher Education Infrastructure Funding grant.
• CEO participated in a consultation process for the drafting of an Agrifood and Wine Strategic Framework for South Australia.
• Ongoing dialogue with Civil Contractors Federation in respect to the current economic status of the region and the Federation’s calls for
the region to be considered a special economic zone.
• Correspondence sent to the WIN Television Network and Senator the Hon Stephen Conroy, expressing RDALC’s disappointment at
the decision to terminate its regional week night news service and
supporting calls by Senator Nick Xenophon to amend the Broadcasting
Services Act.
• Meeting with overseas investors for a briefing on a potential new processing project in the region.
• Participated in a Climate Change Adaptation Forum, which focused on funding opportunities that might be available for a regional project.
• Participated in a Skills for All briefing session with Minister Portolesi and senior staff of DFEEST in respect to pending changes to delivery of
the Skills for All in Regions program.
• Provided PIRSA with details of “current production and support businesses in the Limestone Coast” for the report document “Limestone Coast – Potential for Agriculture, Forestry and Premium Food and
Wine.”
• Input provided to State Government’s Draft Regional Statement as part of presentation to Regional Communities Consultative Council.
• CEO and RDALC Board Member provided regional intelligence to SA Power representatives as part of a Forum around the regional power
network.
• Input provided to the South East Water Allocation Plan as part of SENRM presentation to RDALC Board Meeting.
• Provided regional intelligence to representatives of Commonwealth Government Department of Manufacturing as part of regional visit to
local manufacturing site.
• RDALC Chair participated in Economic Growth Forum hosted by Steven Marshall, State Liberal Leader.
• Regional information and intelligence provided to City of Mount Gambier and South Australian Centre for Economic Studies as part of
their economic study of Mount Gambier.
• Plans discussed for delivery of Leadership Workshops in Region. • Attended briefing on rollout of Skills for All in Regions. • Participated in review of Destination Action Plan with South Australian
Tourism Commission.
• Together with RDALC Chair and Board Members provided overview of region and potential training and skills requirement to the Training
and Skills Commission.
• Tourism Development Officer, in conjunction with SELGA Member Councils, South Australian Tourism Commission and Industry, reviewed
the Regional Destination Action Plan.
15
2012 -
2013
Letters of support were provided to various community initiatives/
project applications including:-
• An Industry Association seeking funding under the Skills in the Workplace initiative.
• A local organisation seeking funding under the Industry and Indigenous Skills Centre program for funding for a training facility upgrade.
• Local Councils seeking funding assistance under the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program.
• A Council seeking funding under the Community Benefit SA program. • An organisation seeking funding from the Australian Renewable
Energy Agency (ARENA) for a potential regional project.
• An organisation for a funding application to the WHS Innovative Practice Grant Fund for an initiative in the Tatiara region.
• The Glenelg Shire Council in respect to their funding application to the Regional Development Australia Fund, for funding towards the
Condah-Hotspur Road Upgrade, which is a project identified in the
Green Triangle Freight Action Plan.
• All proponents from the Limestone Coast region that were invited to submit applications to Rounds 3 and 4 of the Regional Development
Australia Fund.
• A client for a funding application to the TQUAL program.
Board Staff also participated in a range of outside Boards/Committees,
including:-
• South East Resource Information Centre • Limestone Coast Community Services Roundtable • Limestone Coast Food and Wine Tourism Group • Limestone Coast Economic Diversification Strategy Steering Group • Green Triangle Freight Action Plan Implementation Monitoring Group • Regional Development South Australia • Skills for All in Regions Limestone Coast Network • State Partnership Broker Network • State Delegate National Partnership Broker Network • Cruise Ship Steering Committee • Limestone Coast Tourism • South Australian Touring Route Inc (Melbourne to Adelaide Touring
Route/Great Australian Journey)
• UniSA Mount Gambier Regional Centre Advisory Council • Career Expo Planning Committee • UniSA Teacher Practicum Committee and research project • Career Development Association of Australia National Executive
Committee
• Naracoorte Caves MasterPlan • The Junction Mental Health Activity and Resource Centre • Automotive Industry Group SE Inc • Wattle Range Social Issues Committee • South East HR Managers Group • The Employment Services Provider Leadership Group • Forest Industry Training Network (FITNET) • Active Communities Towards Involving Our Neighbours (ACTION) • Skills for All in Regions Professional Trainers Group • The Vocational Directions Reference Group
Throughout the year Staff also attended a variety of business and industry
and other association meetings at which a host of presentations were
delivered. These included:
• Meeting with Tatiara District Council and local businesses to address issues with attracting and retaining employees to fill local vacancies.
• Presentation given to the Select Committee on Sustainable Farming Practices.
• Ongoing attendance at the South East Local Government Association General Meetings to promote the work of the Board.
• Presentation on regional issues and opportunities made to 12 representatives of the Board of the People’s Choice Credit Union as
part of their Board Meeting in Mount Gambier.
• Millicent Business Community Association • Judging Panel Advantage SA Regional Awards • Mount Gambier and District Chamber of Commerce Business Awards • Ongoing involvement in South East Resource Information Centre
Board of Management.
• Presentation provided to the Civil Contractors Federation Annual Dinner
16
2012-2013
sMALL business ADvisoRy seRviCe
Business Development Officer
This year Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast (RDALC)
supported 230 businesses, many with multiple interactions. Services
provided include the following; business name and registration,
business planning, understanding and developing cash flows, marketing,
grant applications and support, legal and statutory requirements,
human resource management, accessing ATO information, workforce
development, licensing and general business advice.
Referrals were made to various support services and programs
including Enterprise Connect, Tradestart, Career Development Centre,
Department for Manufacturing, Innovation, Trade, Resources and Energy
(DMITRE), AusIndustry, Department of Primary Industries and Regions
SA (PIRSA), South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC), South East
Local Government Association (SELGA), Accountants, Financial Planners,
Lawyers and Banking Institutions.
RDALC successfully received funding from DMITRE and DFEEST to
implement the Regional Business Sustainability Competitive Business
Program to assist small business to adopt advanced business practice
models that increase competitiveness and sustainability through the
utilisation of digital technologies. The Regional Business Sustainability
Competitive Business Program will be delivered in a series of 3 hour
workshops throughout the Limestone Coast. Five key sessions have been
identified
• Facebook & Twitter for Business • IT Security for Business • Online Sales • Web Presence • Online Surveys
The Small Business Advisory Service continues to act as a shop front for
the Australian Taxation Office and is the authorised service provider for
the Indigenous Business Australia program. RDALC has also entered a
contract to provide business mentoring services as part of the Apprentice
to Business Owner Program, which supports eligible tradespeople who
are seeking to or have recently established a business.
Mike Ryan delivered the program until December 2012, with Michaela
Bell commencing in the role as Business Development Officer in late
December 2012. RDALC’s ability to better service the entire region was
boosted in February 2013 when funding was successfully obtained from
the Federal Government to appoint a Small Business Advisor to service
the Kingston, Tatiara, Robe and Naracoorte Lucindale Council regions.
Statistics for these Council areas from February 2013 onwards are
detailed separately in this report.
OTHER ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:
• Development of the Regional Business Sustainability Competitive Business Program
• Facebook & Twitter for Business Workshop delivered in Bordertown, Naracoorte, Coonawarra, Mount Gambier, Millicent & Beachport with
over 150 participants
• Representation at the 2013 Lucindale Field Days • Hosted Clusters workshop with world renowned Clusters expert Ifor
Ffowcs-Williams attended by 23 people
• Presentation to the ‘We’re in Business Beachport’ Association • Presentation and ongoing support of the Millicent Business Community
Association
17
2012 -
2013
enQuiRies by CounCiL AReA
WAttLe RAnGe
nARACooRte/LuCinDALe
tAtiARA
kinGston
Robe
GRAnt
City of Mount GAMbieR
otheR
63
6
103
33
4
0
10
11
18
2012-2013
enQuiRy type
28
18
19
8
49
27
19
58
98
GRAnts/funDinG info
GeneRAL MGt
eDuCAtion/tRAininG
pRoDuCtion
LiCenCes/LeGAL
MARketinG
tAxAtion
finAnCiAL
pLAnninG
enQuiRies by inDustRy
5
15
34
35
11
2
30
13
33
26
22
fooD
hosp/touRisM
ReC/peRsonAL
business seRviCe
tRAnspoRt
WhoLesALe
RetAiL
ConstRuCtion
MAnufACtuRinG
AGRiCuLtuRe/hoRt
otheR
19
2012 -
2013
Small Business Advisor
In September 2012 the Board was successful in applying for funding for
a two year agreement with the Commonwealth of Australia to provide
Small Business Advisory Services to the Mid to Upper Limestone Coast
region, commencing in 2013.
The Small Business Advisory Service (SBAS) is designed to maximise
the sustainability, productivity and or growth potential of participating
small businesses through access to low cost business advisory services.
The funding enabled the Board to put in place a dedicated Business
Advisor to manage enquiries and issues arising in the Naracoorte
Lucindale, Tatiara, Robe and Kingston Council areas. These services
commenced in February 2013.
Demand for the services during the first six months has been high.
Enquiries have come from existing businesses seeking support across a
wide range of topics and from potential new start up enterprises.
The Small Business Advisor has a close working relationship with Councils
and Business and Tourism Associations in the four Council areas and the
role also enables the Board to act as a mobile shop front for a range of
linked small business services, including the Australian Taxation Office.
Of the 59 one on one business meetings to date, 18 were with new
business proponents and the remaining 41 were with owners across a
range of existing business sectors. Eleven meetings related to finance,
37 to general business planning issues, 4 regarding legal requirements
and 7 related to grants and funding opportunities.
business Assists by CounCiL AReA
11
4
15
19
10
Robe
kinGston
tAtiARA
nARACooRte/LuCinDALe
otheR
20
2012-2013
business Assists by inDustRy
hospitALity AnD touRisM
ReCReAtionAL
business seRviCes
tRAnspoRt
RetAiL
ConstRuCtion
MAnufACtuRinG
AGRiCuLtuRe
5
1
11
7
9
3
12
11
The Small Business Advisor has facilitated workshops across the region
including Work Health and Safety at Bordertown and IT workshops
at Bordertown and Penola. With other agencies and members of the
Board, the SBA attended the Lucindale Field Days and promoted the new
services available by the board.
A questionnaire has been developed for businesses across the region
and data from that survey is assisting with the development of future
training needs and workshops for business and industry.
Other activities have included.
• Presentations to Councils and Council staff regarding the role and services available.
• Presentations to Business and Tourism Associations at Robe, Naracoorte and Bordertown.
• Twenty one businesses referred to other agencies including Enterprise Connect, Austrade, DMITRE, PIRSA and AusIndustry.
• Presentations to small business clusters on topics including Intellectual Property, grant writing, customer services and business sponsorship
management.
• Attendance at the Millicent Business and Community Association business awards event.
• Attendance at the AGM of the Naracoorte Lucindale Business and Tourism Association.
• Attendance at the reformation meeting of the Robe Business and Tourism Association.
• Cluster development training undertaken in preparation for the role out of Cluster development funding in the Limestone Coast.
• Regular meetings with a range of linked agencies including PIRSA, DMITRE, Enterprise Connect, Austrade and the Industry Capability
Network.
Summary of Business Enquiries
The Board’s Business Development Officer, Small Business Advisor and
Chief Executive Officer have handled a total of 415 business enquiries
over the 2012/13 financial year.
These enquiries were from 131 new business owners and 226 existing
business owners and the majority (18%) were from the Manufacturing
Industry. City of Mount Gambier, Wattle Range Council and Tatiara
District Council had the most enquiries with 35%, 21% and 14%
respectively.
otheR
8% AGRiCuLtuRe/hoRt
15%
MAnufACtuRinG
18%
RetAiL
11%tRAnspoRt
5%
business seRviCe
15%
ReC/peRsonAL
12%
hosp/touRisM
7%
fooD
3%
ConstRuCtion
5%
WhoLesALe
1%
21
2012 -
2013
totAL enQuiRies by Ceo/bDo/sbA
WAttLe RAnGe
73
otheR
15
Mount GAMbieR
123
GRAnt
37Robe
21
tAtiARA
48
kinGston
3
nARACooRte/LuCinDALe
31
37%
63%
totAL nuMbeR of enQuiRies
Ceo/bDo/sbA<<<<<<
neW business existinG business
peRCentAGe of totAL enQuiRies fRoM eACh inDustRy>>>>>>
Limestone
Coast
skiLLs foR ALL in ReGions
The Skills for All in Regions (SFAIR) program delivers local-level projects
that support individuals who experience economic and social barriers,
to access training and skills development which leads to gaining and
retaining sustainable employment.
Projects are designed to respond to the training and workforce
participation needs of individuals, skill and labour demand of local
industry, strategic priorities of the Department of Further Education,
Employment, Science and Technology (DFEEST) and local labour market
conditions.
SFAIR program projects contribute economically and socially to regions
by ensuring that local people have the skills to fill positions in areas
of demand and growth, and that people are fully productive once in
employment.
DFEEST funds Regional Grantees to deliver the SFAIR program, who
facilitate the implementation of regional projects that enable more
people to participate in training and work. SFAIR projects assist
people to acquire the skills required by industry and employers, and to
develop higher level skills which match emerging skill needs. The SFAIR
program links people who are not training or work ready with skills and
employers.
SFAIR projects contribute to DFEEST’s strategic directions and priorities
by:
• Providing opportunities for all individuals to succeed in learning, training and work
• Meeting the skills needs of employers, ensuring that employers have access to local people with the right skills and at the right time
A critical component of the SFAIR program is using the Skills for
All Regional Networks to actively engage with industry, employers,
government, non-government and community stakeholders. This
engagement develops a shared understanding of local skills needs and
employment demand and enables mutual objectives to be achieved. This
understanding and mutual support is important for prioritising resources
for SFAIR projects.
RDALC delivers the program for the Limestone Coast, in partnership with
the South Australian Department of Further Education, Employment,
Science and Technology (DFEEST). The Board’s Project Officer –
Employment & Trainings Programs, worked in collaboration with the
Regional Coordinator for DFEEST, David Hill in managing the program.
The targeted outcomes for the full financial year were to engage 392
participants, with 113 to gain an employment outcome. There are still
projects due for completion before 31st December 2013 however, it is
anticipated all outcomes will be fully achieved.
Highlights of the projects undertaken throughout the year by the Skills
for All in Regions funding recipients are listed below:-
The Career Development Centre (CDC)
Based in Mount Gambier, the CDC assists individuals to gain the skills
and knowledge necessary for them to make informed choices and to
manage their life, learning and work. Career development is an integral
element to effective participation, learning and employment. The CDC
in the Limestone Coast continues to pioneer services to individuals with
needs. The CDC provides career development services and information
for anyone in the Limestone Coast region to enable them to make
educational, training and occupational choices and to manage their
career, so that they are able to participate more effectively in the
workforce. (An overview of the work of the CDC is provided separately
in this report.)
Licence Training
This project identified jobseekers that wished to engage in the workforce
but faced financial barriers to training. Gramac Solutions successfully
tendered for this project. Gramac facilitated specific training with
employment outcomes attached which was co funded through Skills for
All in Regions, Gramac and the participants. Funding was allocated to
overcome barriers in Transport first, Occupational tickets second with
the remaining priorities small ticket training needs including First Aid
and Responsible Service of Alcohol. The project commenced in April
2013 and is due for completion by 30th September 2013. The project is
anticipated to engage 30 participants with 20 employment outcomes.
Computing Essentials
While the younger generation has been bought up in an Information
Technology (IT) world, it is apparent that there is a demand for mature
generations to become more IT savvy. By providing classes in the areas of
digital communication skills, job seekers are provided with employability
skills that provide them with the confidence to apply for positions and
enable them to be competitive when it comes to job readiness. Di-Monty
Training Solutions successfully tendered for this project and delivered
courses in April 2013 to 62 participants with 50 participants gaining a
pathway outcome.
Oracle
Projects were targeted to raise participant’s ability to a work-ready level
or to ensure they are capable of engaging into the Skills for All pipeline or
into sustainable employment. Oracle projects have primarily consisted of
pre-employment programs. One example is Finding Your Feet, delivered
by Di Ind from Di-Monty Training Solutions, which is a non-accredited
program. The focus is on a change of mindset in job seeking techniques,
improved communication skills, personal networking, job applications
and interview skills. It also has a major focus on team work, self-
confidence, personal image and self-esteem.
Skills for All Regional Network
Skills for All Regional Network (SFARN) comprised of a structure focused
on expanding industry engagement. SFARN supported industry groups
including:
• Human Resource Managers Group • Automotive Industry Group South East Apprenticeship Awards • Bordertown Business Association • Naracoorte Lucindale Business and Tourism Awards • Limestone Coast Rotary Career Expo
24
2012-2013
skiLLs, CAReeR AnD WoRkfoRCe DeveLopMent
Career Development Centre
The Career Development Centre offers a range of career services to
assist people at various stages of their career. Since its establishment
in 2006, this business model has been replicated in several regions
across South Australia. It provides a free, independent and confidential
career planning service to assist people to develop the skills they need
to manage their own careers and achieve career goals. Specifically, the
CDC supports them with targeted interventions at key points in their
working lives.
The CDC provides assistance with:
• Skills and tools to pursue a career path based on abilities, values and interests
• Developing resumes, employment applications and cover letters • Researching training or professional development options • Gathering evidence for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) • Finding information about relevant local training and employment
opportunities
• Finding information about local industries and opportunities for the employer
• Interview techniques and tips
Client numbers have grown steadily over the past seven years and now
provide a valuable source of statistical information and insight into
regional employment trends. This includes increasing client profiles and
local job vacancies.
One telling statistic is the significant increase in the number of clients
with low education as industries embrace new technologies and more
efficient processes.
The CDC has grown each year as locals spread the word – advertising
does not need to be in the budget as good word of mouth means that
the CDC consistently outperforms against its targets.
The CDC started with a clear vision of
Career development services and information for everyone in the Limestone Coast region of any age, at any stage in their career.
It is an individual’s decision to use the CDC service, participation is
voluntary. This means that participants use the service based on their
desire to have greater skills to manage their career, and leads to
empowerment of the individual to take control of their career – we can
guide and support but they are the decision maker. The CDC supports
them with an intervention at a key point in their working life. We provide
an independent service.
Career Development Centre statistics over time show some interesting
demographics, as shown in the following graphs.
19.5% 16.2%
13.9%
14.8%
12.7%
22.5%
feMALe 16-24
MALe 16-24
feMALe 25-39
MALe 25-39
feMALe 40+
MALe 40+
Participants by gender and age 2006 - 20132012 -
2013
25
The statistic that is usually not celebrated or recognised are the
participants who may need as much time and support as participants
who are officially listed and counted. They usually require one career
development session rather than many and have a range of needs,
from information about work options to career coaching to the need
for contemporary tools to seek work. Tracking and monitoring these
numbers is challenging. CDC staff estimate that they saw 370 pathways
participants in 2013. CDC staff are supporting increasing numbers
through email and phone services. The CDC website at www.cdc.org.
au has a significant following. It contains a daily job vacancies board,
a seasonal labour calendar, information for travellers seeking work,
comprehensive information about services and training available in
the region, job search information and local industry information. The
website logged 25,214 visits and 52,905 page views for the 2012/13
financial year.
Job vacancies have been tracked since May 2008 and show a decrease
over time in published vacancies. This may be due to a decrease in actual
job vacancies, or to a shift in the way that vacancies are identified and
filled. Anecdotally word of mouth and informal strategies form a large
part of recruitment practice.
70.0%
60.0%
50.0%
40.0%
30.0%
20.0%
10.0%
0.0%
eMpLoyMent outCoMes stuDy/eDuCAtion voLunteeR otheR
Participant destinations 2006 to 2013
Participant destinations have consistently shown high employment and study outcomes
Job Advertisements online and in local press over time (2008 to 2013) for the Limestone Coast
800
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
2008/2009
2009/2010
2010/2011
2011/2012
2012/2013
juL AuG sep oCt nov DeC jAn feb MAR ApR MAy jun
26
2012-2013
Job advertisements by industry over time (2008 to 2013) for the Limestone Coast. (Note that these categories are approximate based on limited information in job advertisements)
Statistics for the last financial year are shown below. Of these numbers, 1.0 % of participants were Aboriginal, 6.2 % were migrants and 4.0 % had
a disability. These statistics do not include people who seek advice or information from the CDC without using the one to one service with a career
practitioner – these numbers have increased this year and now exceed formal participants.
In addition, a further 153 retrenched workers have been supported through the Regional Assistance Package managed through the Industry Skills
Development Directorate.
1200
1000
800
600
400
200
0
2008/2009
2009/2010
2010/2011
2011/2012
2012/2013
ADM
inistR
Atio
n
AppR
entiCe
/tRA
inee
fARM
/AGR
iCuL
tuRe
foRe
stRy
heALt
h
hospitAL
ity
LAbo
uR
pRofe
ssio
nAL
RetA
iL
tRAn
spoRt
/MAC
hineR
y
tRAD
es
formal participants by age 2012-2013 year %
Female 16-24 86 15.9%
Male 16-24 114 13.2%
Female 25-39 84 13.2%
Male 25-39 96 14.6%
Female 40+ 125 17.9%
Male 40+ 120 25.1%
Total Formal Participants 625
Informal participants seeking information and advice (front counter, email, phone, short conversations) 370 approx.
2012 -
2013
27
Case Study - Mature Age Job Seekers.
The CDC sees many mature aged people – in fact over 40% of participants are over 40 years
of age. They may have been retrenched, be returning to work after retirement investment
earnings plunged or after undertaking caring duties, or be looking for career change as their
priorities and mental and physical capacities change. Many share some common attributes:
• They have vast experience but may lack current accredited qualifications, and they are competing with younger people who do have these qualifications.
• They are often wary of training as they see themselves as too old and they are not confident that they understand how the system works.
• They have a narrow understanding of the labour market, where the jobs are and the changing world of work.
• They have few of the job search tools they need to play the ‘Get a Job’ game, including an understanding of online applications, contemporary resumes, cover letters, interview
processes, psychological profiling, recruitment companies, writing to job and person
specifications and cold calling.
Key Point: The Career Development Centre provides career coaching for mature age Job Seekers.
In the last four years we have tracked participants who have a low education level, defined as those who have completed Year 10 or below. Current
figures show that this cohort makes up a significant percentage of participants (17%).
The CDC is involved in a number of initiatives and partnerships each year, which are outlined below.
Skills for All
The CDC has a strong relationship with Skills SA and provides information about the Skills for All initiative to Limestone Coast residents who are seeking
advice about the best training options for them. The CDC has an important role in clarifying information and options, and supporting individuals to
make decisions that are useful for them.
Skills Recognition Services
The CDC has a strong relationship with Skills Recognition Services (SRS) and offers support to newly arrived skilled migrants, refugees and Australians
who have valuable skills and experience which can be utilised and recognised in South Australia.
The primary functions of SRS are to assist migrants who are qualified and trained overseas to gain employment in their area of expertise. The CDC assists
migrants to work through the processes that will enable them to have their overseas academic qualifications assessed in terms of their comparability to
Australian educational levels, accesses information on recognition procedures and makes referrals to appropriate agencies.
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013
Low education participants by financial year
28
2012-2013
Case Study - career management skills for long term unemployed.
A group of ten long term unemployed people came together to undertake some work ready workshops, developed by the CDC and
delivered in partnership with the Millicent Library, ACE and JSA providers. These workshops included skill building in working with
others and understanding personal skills and interests; knowing about the world of work and having the tools (resume, interview
skills) to gain work. Workshop participants undertook the task of organising and running a project within the Library for the whole of
community to attend.
A young woman in the group took the lead, organised the others in her group and set about researching and arranging for a talk on
Relaxation to occur.
From this, the participant’s confidence levels rose considerable. Her attitude towards other people, particularly those in the group,
improved markedly and she developed skills to work with others and to perform tasks within time frames.
Since the event and workshops she has become even further motivated after the positive experience and has engaged in further study
for a Certificate III in Hospitality. She is keen to gain employment using the skills she has developed over the course of the program and
with those skills she will achieve by doing the training.
Key Point: The Career Development Centre supports people to gain confidence and develop competenciesto manage their career so that they can access training or work.
Case Study - the process of having overseas qualifications assessed.
A husband and wife from overseas, both with qualifications as nurses, came to the CDC to talk about
what options they had to have their qualifications recognised or how to establish equivalency. The
husband had also completed 4 years of medical training to become a doctor.
The CDC gathered certified copies of their qualifications, and made enquiries through the Skills
Recognition Services to explore options and establish the steps required. The CDC staff were referred
to the Nursing and Midwifery board, researched the Nursing and Midwifery board website and gave
the couple copies of the process and requirements. After a lengthy process (nearly 18 months) the
husband enrolled in nursing at Flinders University and has since completed the necessary
studies and is now undertaking further studies in a specialised field. His wife has continued to
undertake studies around her English skills and Certificate III in Aged Care during this process.
Key Point: The Career Development Centre provides links to specialised servicesand supports individuals through a drawn out and complicated process
Scholarship Support
The CDC is now taking the lead for a project which was initiated by
Rotary, which aims to ensure that people (particularly young people) have
an awareness of and access to information about scholarships which are
available to them. Rotary is providing a small amount of funds to address
this issue, and promotion through the website and other marketing is
being processed through the CDC, with one to one support also provided
as needed.
Scholarship clientele to date overwhelmingly has consisted of students
hoping to undertake undergraduate studies. Frequently, a student will need
to relocate from the Limestone Coast to a major city in order to obtain a
university education. The accompanying costs are considerable, and often
prohibitive. Access to scholarships can often be the deciding factor as to
whether or not a student is able to proceed to tertiary studies.
As a result of information provided by this programme, students accessed
scholarships and accommodation bursaries well in excess of $200,000 for
the last year. The program continues to grow, with “word of mouth” being the major contributor towards this growth.
Pathways to Employment
The CDC is currently working in conjunction with ac.care, TAFE SA and
Job Services Australia to provide accredited training to the long term
unemployed, through the Adult Community Education (ACE) funding.
“Pathways to Employment” is an 8 week workshop program, which incorporates exploration of skills and abilities, identification and research
of employment pathways and preparation for the job selection process.
Each individual contributes to developing their personalised action plan
to achieve their goals. Similar programs have been delivered in Millicent
and Mount Gambier.
2012 -
2013
29
The Career Development Network
The CDC provides leadership for the Career Development Network.
The Career Development Network’s vision is to link all people working within
career development in the Limestone Coast Region. The network provides
research, networking and professional development opportunities to the
sector and is committed to the delivery of high quality, consistent and
coordinated career development services in the Limestone Coast region.
The network has members from a broad range of regional organisations
including Job Services Australia, Disability Services, Registered Training
Organisations, regional high schools, UniSA, DFEEST, the Apprenticeship
and Traineeship sector, Health Care Sector and Flexible and Independent
Learning Centres.
Retrenched Workers
The CDC has worked with an increasing number of retrenched workers,
as they make a transition from a workplace to other career options. This
is important work, as these individuals have a wealth of knowledge and
skills, and the capacity to build our region.
In the last 2 years there have been increasing numbers of businesses who
have sought CDC assistance for their employees, including Fishers IGA, Mt.
Gambier; Mitre 10, Mt. Gambier; Carter Holt Harvey, PMO, Mt. Gambier
and Gunns Ltd at Tarpeena. In addition to these groups of employees,
individuals who have heard of the services we provide come to the CDC on
a weekly basis looking for assistance as they have been made redundant.
Usually the advice and assistance that the CDC provides is crucial as they
are not eligible for other services.
30
2012-2013
Case Study - supporting retrenched workers.
Many recently retrenched workers may not have been formally
licensed or have completed certificates but have been
operating forklifts and other machinery as they were assessed
as competent on their worksite. This lack of transferable
qualifications has been an issue as they leave the workplace.
After meeting with the participants the CDC found that a
lot of the employees have needed assistance with basic and
intermediate computing. No matter what line of work they were
looking for, a level of computing skills was required in all positions.
By using the Skills for All website the CDC is able to access a local provider for non-accredited training.
Key Point: The CDC supports retrenched workers to make decisions about their next work steps.Sometimes licences and foundation skills learning are the critical factor for employment.
200
150
100
50
0
2008/2009 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013
Retrenched workers by financial year
2012 -
2013
Apprenticeship Traineeship Adviser (ATA) Project
The Work Exploration and Resources (WEAR) for Apprenticeships
project funded by the Australian Government Department of Industry,
Innovation, Climate Change, Science, Research and Tertiary Education
through the Australian Apprenticeship Mentoring Package commenced
in July 2012.
At the commencement of the project over 460 young people were
surveyed at the 2012 Limestone Coast Career Expo and the data from
these surveys has provided important information in guiding the delivery
of the ATA program. There has been a focus on industries identified
in the “Limestone Coast Workforce – Analysis of supply, demand, emerging trends and opportunities and strategies for regional workforce
development”, these are:
1. Manufacturing
2. Construction
3. Retail
4. Health Care and Assistance
5. Agriculture
6. Mining
During the program the Apprenticeship Advisers have met with young
people one to one and in group settings promoting apprenticeship and
traineeship opportunities in the identified areas. The Apprenticeship
Advisers have also met with potential employers, parents, Apprenticeship
Centres, RTO’s, GTO’s, Teachers, Apprenticeship Brokers and fellow
Apprenticeship Advisers.
The Apprenticeship Advisers have developed methods to attract a greater
and diverse number of potential apprentices and trainees.
Some of the activities undertaken to reach the cohort have included:
• A Girls Only Gathering • Civil Construction Road Show • Fab Lab Demonstrations in Community Libraries across the Limestone
Coast
• Stand at local shopping centre • Lucindale Field Days • In kind support to “The Hour” – a play about health and ageing • Presence at Dairy Innovation Day 2013 • Visits to regional VET coordinator meetings • Support to Cows Create Careers – agriculture education in schools
The Apprenticeship Advisers and some Mentors from Manufacturing,
Agriculture, Glass and Glazing, Hospitality, Automotive, Electro-
Technology and the Printing Industry have visited the region. The RDA
Limestone Coast ATA has been able to link them up with schools and
local industries; this liaison has been very effective for all involved.
The Career Development Centre continues to be an important partner
to the Apprenticeship Advisers providing general career information
and getting young people work ready with suitable resumes and cover
letters.
Early in 2013 Apprenticeship Adviser Gina Ploenges presented to 80
business people at the Mount Gambier Chamber of Commerce breakfast
meeting. The message was to invest now in the young people of the
community by offering apprenticeships and traineeships and plan ahead
for the economic upturn when you need skilled staff.
Since the commencement of the program the Apprenticeship Advisers
have spoken to / or presented to 1228 potential apprentices or trainees.
The target for the program is 2000 potential apprentices or trainees by
November 2013.
A Girls Only Gathering
AGOG – A Girls Only Gathering was conducted on Wednesday April 10th
in Mount Gambier. The day attracted just over 90 young women from
across the Limestone Coast who had the opportunity to hear inspiring
speakers, have new experiences and explore their career direction.
The day kicked off with a presentation from ex Mount Gambier girl
Rose Lloyd, who was recently selected by BHP as a graduate employee
for 2014. Marita Cheng, Young Australian of the Year 2012 shared her
experiences and told her inspiring story about the formation of Robogals
and her future endeavours.
Parked just outside the City Hall was the Civil Construction Federation
mobile training unit – this contains two state of the art simulators: a
front-end loader and excavator. The participants had the opportunity to
get behind the controls and try their hand at becoming skilled at using
this equipment.
The day was a great success, hopefully inspiring and encouraging the
young women involved to consider a broader range of career options –
including apprenticeships and traineeships.
Civil Construction Federation mobile training unit also visited six schools
in the Limestone Coast region throughout the week giving young people
a unique experience operating the simulators. 105 young people from
Kingston, Keith, Penola, Millicent, Naracoorte and Kangaroo Inn attended
the mobile training centre on its trip around the Limestone Coast.
31
32
2012-2013
School Business Community Partnership Broker Program
The School Business Community Partnership Broker program is a national
program that fosters a whole of community approach to supporting
young people as they learn and develop, with a primary goal of ensuring
that young Australians attain year 12 or equivalent qualification. The
Partnership Broker program aims to establish high quality, strategic
partnerships that link key stakeholders together to improve young
people’s educational and transition outcomes.
The Partnership Broker Limestone Coast is one of 107, operating regionally
throughout Australia. Since its inception in 2009, the Partnership Broker
Limestone Coast has worked with schools, businesses, community
organisations, parents and families, to develop an array of partnerships
around a number of key areas.
In May, the federal government announced that the Partnership Brokers
program was to receive ongoing funding to December 2014. Given the
current challenging economic times, this renewed confidence in the
program and reinforced the recent findings of an independent social
return on investment (SROI) report by Social Ventures Australia (SVA)
revealing that to date; the Partnership Broker Program has created $5.50
of social value for every $1 invested.
Each year Partnership Broker Limestone Coast conducts extensive
regional research and consultation to produce an environmental scan
to identify priority action areas for improving educational and transition
outcomes for young people.
The following are highlights from this year’s Partnership Broker program.
Career Development Network
Many young people, their teachers and their parents, would benefit from a
stronger understanding of career pathways, knowledge of the local labour
market and of work readiness skills. The Career Development Network
supports career development practitioners in the provision of quality
services and information across the Limestone Coast.
Through the establishment of the Network, the Partnership Broker has
brought together over 120 people involved in the provision of career
development services across the region. This group meets quarterly, and
shares information continuously through a virtual network. The focus
over the past 12 months has been on increasing the number of members
with formal qualifications in career development. The Network is working
towards seeing some members upgrade to post graduate qualifications in
Career Development, which are available through a number of Australian
tertiary institutions.
2012 -
2013
Mentoring
Many young people would benefit from additional positive role models
and mentor figures that would support them to succeed. The Partnership
Broker continues to work with mentoring partners to support mentors
across the community acquire additional skills and resources to enhance
their capacity to engage with young people and support learning inside
and outside the classroom. Local mentoring groups are being encouraged
to register “mentoring” in the service category of the Gearingup website, allowing mentors and mentees to connect more easily and gain access
to mentoring resources. In addition, the Partnership Broker is working
with the Australian Youth Mentoring Network to help build the capacity
of local mentoring groups by offering access to national resources and
support.
Parent Involvement
Many parents are time poor and wary of traditional methods of
involvement in schools. Parent connections are critical for the success
of their children. Recognising and celebrating the important role that
parents play in assisting their children in coming to decisions about
careers and pathway planning is one of the priority areas for the
Partnership Broker.
• Genograms Genograms have long been used to track and map
intergenerational patterns, especially genetically inherited traits
and diseases. Using this same premise, a Career Genogram
maps careers and education to identify patterns and offer
insights into how parents influence their children’s choices.
The Partnership Broker is currently working with St Martins Lutheran
College to trial a career planning tool based on family trees or
genograms. This approach has been widely used in schools in both
England and the United States, and more recently in Western Australia,
as a way of initiating and exploring family perceptions and stories
around careers. This model can be easily adapted to accommodate
different age groups and is being trialed across classes in years 5, 8 &
10. As this is a pilot program, we will be seeking feedback from both
teachers and students. We hope that students, parents and teachers
will find this an engaging journey of discovery, and we thank St
Martins for being a part of this new initiative.
• P arents as Powerful Partners in LearningThe Limestone Coast Strategic Youth Coalition (LCSYC), which acts
as a reference group for the Partnership Broker program, developed a
Parents as Powerful Partners in Learning strategy to engage parents
in initiatives to increase parent involvement in school, collaborating
with Innovative Community Action Network (ICAN) to seek funding
for a project officer to implement a project plan. To date, the Parents
as Powerful Partners in Learning program has engaged seven schools
with positive outcomes achieved. There are posters being produced
that will showcase parents involved in this program. Examples of
activities include one in which a school developed a Maths Dictionary
and followed up with workshops for parents, while another produced
an induction booklet for new parents showcasing how they can be
involved in their child’s learning. Parents from Gordon Education
Centre have a Sports Day planned for later in the year (their first) and
have sourced prizes and sponsors for the event.
Transition
For some young people and their families, the transition from primary
to secondary school, and from secondary school to the post school
environment, is a risky process which requires additional support.
• Heading in the Right DirectionThe Heading in the Right Direction program helped young refugees
identify, learn and practice skills that will enable them to self-manage
their careers, through group workshops, information sessions, literacy
and numeracy activities, targeted work experience and field trips.
Throughout May and June, program participants visited several small
businesses and spoke with business managers from She’s Apples, My
Butcher on James and Bannisters & Son Shoe Repairs and Locksmith.
Students were taken behind the scenes to see how the businesses
operated. In addition they all gained work experience with companies
including Barry Maney Ford, de Bruin Group, Gianni’s and the Body
Retreat, Coles, Camilles Beauty, Health & Massage and Exchange
Printers Office National. Others industry partners involved in the
program included Bakers Delight, Masters, SAPOL, Metro Bakery and
SERIC.
The program is outlined in more detail elsewhere in this report, and is
an example of partnerships with industry to support vulnerable young
people make a successful transition from secondary school to post
school environment.
• From Care to Community – Guardianship of the Minister Transition Young people under the Guardianship of the Minister need a process to
transition to adulthood with a holistic and coordinated set of services
to support them. This partnership brings together the agencies that
are separately involved with them, to identify transition strategies.
With support from the Partnership Broker, partners have agreed to
their terms of reference and discussed the role of each stakeholder
in supporting the transition of young people. Partners have also
been working to develop a yearlong program that builds on previous
work in the region by Soroptimists International and supports young
people to gain the skills required to make a successful transition from
care. This program will provide a coordinated approach that allows
young people to build community networks and alliances in the
community. PB has supported the group to develop the program and
to write a funding application to the Sidney Myer Foundation seeking
funds for a coordinator for the program. PB have also assisted the
group with meeting facilitation, support with minutes and agendas,
documentation of role statements for partners and development of
a Memorandum of Understanding to formalise the partnership and
contributions of each partner.
33
34
2012-2013
• Primary to Secondary School transition Last year, PB were approached by DECD regional office staff to discuss
current transition processes from primary to secondary and how to
improve, strengthen and set best practice processes for the region.
This partnership aims to improve and strengthen transition strategies
in the region by strengthening relationships between key staff in
primary and secondary schools, researching what young people see
as transition issues from primary to secondary school and developing
resources to support transition from primary school to secondary school.
From initial discussions the PB convened three forums on transition
in Millicent, Bordertown and Mount Gambier, bringing together
stakeholders from the education sector to look at current research
into transition and share best practice. The PB supported schools to
develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to ensure an efficient
and workable transition for young people. The resulting document
commits high schools, primary feeder schools and the regional
educational support services to clear roles and responsibilities. By
formalising the process, all parties now operate to standardised and
consistent procedures and importantly common terms of reference
and expectation.
Industry Partnerships
Local industry is a key partner in supporting young people. Recognition
of their work and clear protocols for work experience will add to this.
• Work Exploration with Local Government All secondary schools in the Limestone Coast offer the opportunity
for their students, mostly year 10s, to undertake a period of work
experience. For many, this activity is central to their Personal Learning
Plan (PLP) and forms part of their Year 10 assessment. The vast majority
of students gain this work experience in the Limestone Coast region
with local employers, over the course of a designated week. While
some young people may already be in paid part time employment,
for many this is their first experience of the adult world of work.
Through local research, the Partnership Broker program was able to
ascertain that currently, the quality and levels of satisfaction of work
experience vary widely among schools, students, parents and employers.
In response RDA Limestone Coast Partnership Broker (PB) worked with
a small group to develop an integrated package of printed material,
providing a common frame of reference, a clear process and set of
realistic expectations for students, parents and employers alike.
For more information or to download additional resources,
employers can go to the PB website gearingup.org.au
The resource was recently launched to local government and education
leaders at a dinner at Wynn’s Coonawarra, at which Mike Keays from
British Telecom talked about the Work Inspiration program, and Marcy
Lapriore from South East Regional Community Health Services, Neil
Pilgrim from DECD and Greg Megaw from GTE spoke about successful
work experience initiatives in the region.
• School Industry Partnership Awards Dinner Last year Partnership Brokers Limestone Coast successfully hosted
its inaugural celebratory dinner which was an overwhelming
success, attended by over 160 people from schools and the broader
community.
The School Industry Partnership Awards Dinner seeks to recognise the
value partnerships bring to both schools and the broader community
in helping young people stay engaged in education and training.
With ongoing restructuring of the South Australian education
system, cultivating and maintaining strong links between schools
and their local communities, especially with business and industry, is
increasingly important in helping students succeed.
Schools were asked to nominate for the awards in five categories:
• Individual Award • Business working with a Primary School Award • Business working with a Secondary School Award • Emerging Partnership Award • Established Partnership Award More than 25 different partnerships were nominated by 16 different
schools in the region.
This event provides an opportunity for schools to say Thank You to
their partners by showcasing and celebrating their mutual successes
and achievements and is a now a major event on the Partnership
Broker Calender.
2012 -
2013
Networking and Coordination of Services
Bringing partners together and encouraging
the sharing of information is a major role
of the Partnership Broker. Since its inception
in 2009, the gearingup.org.au website has
become an important repository of regionally
specific data and information.
Now in its fourth year the website provides
an important “go to” portal for schools, businesses, industry and community groups
who support young people (15-24) in the Limestone Coast. It provides
up to date information on programs and services available to young
people in the region.
Heading in the Right Direction
Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast secured funding for
the Heading in the Right Direction workshop program, through the Youth
Development and Support Program (DEEWR).
Heading in the Right Direction was delivered twice to two groups of young
people - once in 2012/2013 and again from February until June 2013.
Participants were refugee young people, residing in Mount Gambier and
attending schools in the district.
The Heading in the Right Direction program used career competencies
as outlined in the Australian Blueprint for Career Development as a
basis for its activities. Each group of participants took part in a 15 week
program, delivered using group workshops and information sessions;
targeted literacy/numeracy activities; targeted workplace experiences
and culminating in group presentations.
Young people who undertook the Heading in the Right Direction program
identified, learnt and practiced skills that will enable them to self-
manage their careers.
The workshops offered the participants the opportunity to learn about
the world of work by participating in work experience and field trips to
local businesses and listening to career advice from Guest Speakers from
the business community.
Many local businesses and Community members were directly involved
in the program and have been very supportive, providing invaluable
opportunities for the young people to understand the workings of
business. It was a positive experience for both program participants and
the local community.
The benefits for the young people included opportunities to
• Develop skills to manage their careers • Learn about small business operations • Build confidence by liaising with community members and business
owners
• Develop team work skills • Improve public speaking skills • Develop Language, Literacy and Numeracy skills • Learn IT skills • Learn how to search for work
The final workshop for both groups allowed the participants the
opportunity to make a presentation to school principals, teachers,
parents and the business community. Their presentations focused on
what they had learnt throughout the program and their potential career
aspirations for the future.
The program will ensure long term benefits by providing contacts,
links, and networking opportunities for the young people to utilise in
the future along with building on employability skills and capacity to
explore and understand current options.
Networks and Alliances
Helen Strickland - Manager; Skills, Career and Workforce Development
participated in a variety of forums, discussions and committees,
including;
• KCA Steering Committee about retrenched workers • CHH Steering Committee about retrenched workers • Funded Training list forums • Training and Skills Commission briefing • Humanitarian Refugee meetings • Career Development Association of Australia conference participation • Career Development Association of Australia National Executive • Support for other CDC services across the State • Skills for All Regional Network meetings • State Partnership Brokers network • State delegate on the National Partnership Brokers Network • UniSA Teacher Practicum committee and research project
35
36
2012-2013
touRisM inDustRy DeveLopMent
The Tourism Development Officer program
is largely funded by the 7 regional
councils in the Limestone Coast together
with contributions from Coorong District
Council, Limestone Coast Tourism (LCT)
and South Australian Tourism Commission
(SATC). The Limestone Coast Destination
Action Plan (DAP) together with the
Tourism Development Officer’s (TDO) Work
Plan was the basis for tourism development
in the region with the focus areas being
marketing, access, on-line distribution,
events, experience and accommodation/
infrastructure.
The South Australia Tourism Commission
(SATC) and TDO worked closely with local
stakeholders including local government
and industry to achieve growth in
business capacity, in particular in the on-
line environment.
International visitation and expenditure
through time spent in the region was
significantly higher than the previous
year, indicating the need for our tourism
industry to be operating in an on-line
global system and to strengthen our
relationships and awareness in the growth
markets of New Zealand, SE Asia and China
while maintaining presence in the UK/
Europe and USA. The key communication
and leverage point for this work is the
Melbourne to Adelaide Touring Route.
Attendance and regional representation
was coordinated in conjunction with
SATC for the SE Asia and New Zealand
Roadshow’s which entailed multiple
meetings with travel trade and consumers
in all markets. A total of 10 local operators
jointly funded a brochure for these trade
and consumer events.
While visitation numbers have taken a downturn, there is serious investment occurring in the region with regard to tourism ventures being either existing
or new operations. A record number of tourism businesses enquired about specific funding programs available through state and federal sources.
2012/13 – 29 funding enquiries leading to submissions.
5 successful submissions with the SATC Digital Innovation & Development Fund 2 successful submissions with TQUAL 2 successful submissions with SATC Tourism Development Fund 1 successful submission with SATC Destination Development Program TOTAL matched funds to the region exceeded $285,000
50
48
46
44
42
40
38
36
34
32
30
Percentage of Occupancy in Limestone Coast Accommodation
45.7%46.7%
year ending Dec 2011 year ending Dec 2012
% o
ccupan
cy
$20m in takings $21m in takings
37
2012 -
2013
Notes:
1. Components may add to more than the total number of visitors as visitors visit more than one region
2. Information in this report is sourced from sample surveys, and as with all sample surveys, estimates are subject to sampling variability and caution is
required when interpreting these results
np = not published due to low sample
Source: TRA, National Visitor Survey and International Visitor Survey
number of nights stayed in Limestone Coast
niGhtsyear ending March 12
year ending March 13
increase / Decrease
total visitors to Regional sA
LC %total visitors
to stateLC %
Intrastate 1,020,000 914,000 10% 7,799,000 12% 10,104,000 9%
Interstate 656,000 391,000 40% 3,505,000 11% 8,412,000 5%
Domestic 1,676,000 1,304,000 22% 11,304,000 12% 18,516,000 7%
International 262,000 326,000 24% 1,858,000 18% 10,363,000 3%
TOTAL 1,938,000 1,630,000 16% 13,162,000 12% 28,879,000 6%
visitors to Limestone Coast in 000's Comparison
visitAtionyear ending March 12
year ending March 13
increase / Decrease
total visitors to Regional sA
LC %total visitors
to stateLC %
Intrastate 360,000 308,000 14% 2,532,000 12% 3,378,000 9%
Interstate 220,000 138,000 37% 674,000 20% 1,765,000 8%
Domestic 580,000 446,000 23% 3,206,000 14% 5,143,000 9%
International 45,000 39,000 13% 119,000 33% 357,000 11%
TOTAL 625,000 485,000 22% 3,439,000 14% 5,548,000 9%
38
2012-2013
Over the 12 month period July 2012 – June 2013, TOTAL enquiries were 1854, with 550 working directly with Tourism businesses.
The region secured 5 scheduled cruise ship visits
commencing April 2014 through to 2016.
In total over 9,000 passengers (and almost 3,000
crew) will be docking at Robe with 40% of these
being dispersed into the region through pre-
purchased tours.
A number of high-level media have visited and been
hosted in the region on familiarisation including
Gourmet Traveller, RM Williams Outback Magazine,
UK Magazine and SA Life TV. The value of media
articles from these visits exceeds $500m.
Mount Gambier
29.35%
Wattle Range
11.94%Robe
22.26%
tatiara
5.81%
naracoorte Lucindale
12.26%
DC Grant
3.87%kingston se
3.23%
Coorong DC
5.16%
Cross border
6.13%
Enquiries by Council
2012 -
2013
expoRt
The Board is contracted by the Department for Manufacturing,
Innovation, Trade, Resources and Energy to provide support services
to Export Advisor, Bruce Rodda as part of their delivery of Austrade’s
TradeStart program.
During the 2012/13 year export services were provided to 57 companies
that have since signed on to the TradeStart Program, with 11 companies
achieving an export result to the total value of $9.5million. Export
results have been achieved in various countries including; China, Saudi
Arabia, Brazil, Malaysia, Japan and Taiwan.
Other notable activities include;
• Invited & attended Regional Communities Consultative Council event/dinner during their visit to Naracoorte. This body reports directly to the
Minister for Regional Development through their Chairman.
• Presented at ANZ Bank forum ‘Local Products, Global Markets, Can you contribute?’.
• Was part of a combined information stand with AusIndustry and RDALC at the Dairy Innovation Expo 2013 at Mount Gambier.
• TradeStart client received press coverage in the ‘Weekly Times’ for his development of the Booroola gene/Multimeat development (trials
returned lambing percentages of 202%) – Also completed some work
in Brazil with this company.
• In-bound Chinese buyer (introduced by the SA Government office in Jinan) purchased 3 containers of wine during their one week stay in
South Australia. Our assistance with their export business plan during
their previous visit paid dividends.
• Attended ‘Branding South Australia’ session arranged by the state Economic Development Board.
• In conjunction with SA Government office in Shanghai, arranged meetings for client with seed & dairy companies.
• Attended Business SA Export Awards and Trade Symposium which was an outstanding success! Manned the TradeStart booth that showcased
their suite of services in the National Wine Centre, Adelaide.
• Attended a PIRSA/Australia China Business Council (ACBC) briefing on a recent trip to China by Minister/CEO and ACBC.
• Introduced two Taiwanese customers to client (manufacturer of bark chips, mulches and blended products) for export opportunities. One for
screened seagrass and the other for bark chips.
• Working with Austrade Kunming to assist with customs clearance of two containers of organic fertiliser.
• Collaborating with Austrade Shanghai to solve customs clearance issues with two containers of olive oil (issue revolves around trademark)
• Completed Gateway Business Program application for TradeStart client attending Hong Kong International Wine and Spirits Fair 2012.
• Whilst in Sydney, convened meeting with the Trade Commissioner for the Pacific Islands Trade and Investment Commission. Discussed
opportunities developing in the Pacific Island region.
• 5 Chinese wine companies introduced to 32 SA wine companies, which saw approximately $450,000 in sales. Collaboration between the
TradeStart program, SA Wine Industry Assoc, DMITRE and Austrade.
• Attended the signing of the MOU between Flinders University & qingdao Gather Great Ocean Seaweed Industry Co., Ltd. The Chinese
company contributed $400,000.
• Gateway Business Program lodged 3 applications. Limestone Coast companies to travel to SIAL (Shanghai), Brazil (Genetics Fair), and to
accompany the SA Premier to China.
39
40
2012-2013
AuDiteD finAnCiAL stAteMents
2012 -
2013
41
42
2012-2013
2012 -
2013
43
44
2012-2013
ACRonyMs
ABS Australian Bureau of Statistics
ACE Adult Community Education
AGOG A Girls Only Gathering
ATA Apprenticeship Traineeship Advisor
BDO Business Development Officer
CDC Career Development Centre
CEO Chief Executive Officer
CHH Carter Holt Harvey
CMG City of Mount Gambier
DCG District Council of Grant
DCR District Council of Robe
DEEWR Department of Education, Employment & Workplace Relations
DEWNR Department of Environment Water and Natural Resources
DFEEST Department of Further Education, Employment, Science & Technology
DIICCSRTE Department of Industry, Innovation, Climate Change, Science, Research & Tertiary Education
DMITRE Department for Manufacturing, Innovation, Trade, Resources & Energy
EO Executive Officer
FTE Full Time Employment
GGT Greater Green Triangle
GTO Group Training Organisation
ICAN Innovative Community Action Network
ICT Information Communications & Technology
JSA Job Services Australia
KCA Kimberly-Clark Australia
KDC Kingston District Council
LGA Local Government Area
MOA Memorandum of Agreement
NLC Naracoorte Lucindale Council
PB Partnership Broker Project
PIRSA Primary Industries and Regions South Australia
PLP Personal Learning Plan
RDA Regional Development Australia
RDAF Regional Development Australia Fund (Commonwealth Govt)
RDALC Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast
RDF Regional Development Fund (State Government)
RDIF Regional Development Infrastructure Fund
RTO Registered Training Organisation
SACES South Australian Centre for Economic Studies
SATC South Australian Tourism Commission
SBA Small Business Advisor
SENRM South East Natural Resources Management Board
SELGA South East Local Government Association
SERIC South East Resource Information Centre
SESAIIF South East South Australia Innovation and Investment Fund
SFAIR Skills for All in Regions
SFARN Skills for All Regional Network
SRS Skills Recognition Services
TDC Tatiara District Council
TDO Tourism Development Officer
TqUAL Tourism quality Grant
WRC Wattle Range Council
‘We would like to acknowledge the South Australian Tourism Commission, Limestone Coast Tourism, South East Local Government Association and Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast for the use of their images throughout this publication.’
Old Town Hall, Commercial Street East (PO Box 1445), Mount Gambier SA 5290
PH: 08 8723 1057 FAX: 08 8723 1286
Email: [email protected] Web: www.rdalimestonecoast.org.au