NTPA - June 2017

Police news The Independent Voice of Police in the Northern Territory

JUNE 2017

Valuing the Territory's Police.

It’s one of the benefits of the job

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Keep an eye out for the next Fleet Network NTPA Member Competition!

EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Paul McCue Phone (08) 8995 9520 www.ntpa.com.au ADVERTISER ALERT Boo Media is appointed by the Northern Territory Police Association as the authorised publisher of Northern Territory Police News. For enquiries regarding advertising in this magazine, please contact the publishers:

Contents June 2017

PUBLISHER: Boo Media PTY Limited PO Box 19, Narrabeen, NSW 2101 Phone: (02) 8004 8612 Fax: (02) 8004 8611 info@boodigital.com.au ACN: 153 128 860 EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS must be supplied on computer disk with hard copy (or by email to reception@ntpa.com.au) addressed to The Editor, Northern Territory Police News, GPO Box 2350, Darwin Northern Territory 0801.

Northern Territory Police News is published by the Northern Territory Police Association Inc., Level 2, Suite 209 ‘Spirit on The Avenue’ 12 Salonika Street Parap NT 0820. Contents are subject to copyright.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Organisations which represent sworn police officers’ industrial interests, however, may reproduce any part of the content of Northern Territory Police News without written permission of the publisher.

Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor.

14

The publisher accepts no responsibility for statements made by advertisers.

DISCLAIMER Boo Media (“Publisher”) advises that the contents of this publication are at the sole discretion of the Northern Territory Police Association, and the publication is offered for information purposes only. The publication has been formulated in good faith and the Publisher believes its contents to be accurate. However, the contents do not amount to a recommendation (either expressly or by implication) and should not be relied upon in lieu of specific professional advice. The Northern Territory Police Association make no representation, nor give any warranty or guarantee concerning the information provided. The Publisher disclaims all responsibility for any loss or damage which may be incurred by any reader relying upon the information contained in the publication whether that loss or damage is caused by any fault or negligence on the part of the Publisher, its directors and employees.

20

Thank You: It’s a tough job

25

COPYRIGHT All advertisements appearing in this publication are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced except with the consent of the owner of the copyright.

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Kevin Gilmartin: Returns to the Territory

Opinion: Police are not security guards

07

President

08

Field Officer

10

Industrial/Legal report

11

Update your details

14

A time for decisive action

18

Family violence – busting the myths

20

Thank you

21

Territory budget

24

Health and wellbeing

25

Dr Kevin Gilmartin to return to the Territory

26

Supporting our police

27

Sporting news

32

PFA – Paid Parental Leave

34

PFA WAC

38

Letters to the Association

The NT Police Association is proudly supported by:

Cover photo: Our Thank you campaign, photo courtesy Michael Franchi / NewsPix. Read more on page 20.

JUNE 2017 05

president's Message

REGIONAL DELEGATES ACPO REGION

DARWIN

Chairperson Trudy Grenfell Vice Chairperson Derek Williams Secretary Vacant Ordinary Member 1 Debra Carter Ordinary Mem. 2 Vanessa Martin

Chairperson Ian Nankivell Vice Chairperson Mark Henderson Secretary Steven Bott Ord. Member 1 Michael Valladares Ord. Member 2 Derek Hartshorn

ALICE SPRINGS AND CENTRAL DESERT REGION

GOVE

Chairperson Brodie Anderson Vice Chairperson Damien Barbe Secretary Gregory Burns Ordinary Member 1 Michael Swain Ordinary Member 2 Adam Swift

Chairperson Troy Harris Vice Chairperson Craig Ramsay Secretary Vacant Ord. Member 1 Vacant Ordinary Member 2 Vacant

EXECUTIVE MEMBERS

president's Message PAUL McCUE PRESIDENT

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT

COL GOODSELL

CHRIS WILSON

NTPA Office

TISD

Alice Springs Station

VICE PRESIDENT

GROOTE EYLANDT REGION AUXILIARY REGION Chairperson Vacant Vice Chairp. Cameron Charrington Secretary Vacant Ordinary Member 1 James Green Ord. Member 2 Ferdinand Cheam

BARKLY REGION Chairperson Darryl Beckmann Vice Chairperson Elizabeth Garwood Secretary Natalie Watts Ordinary Member 1 Vacant Ordinary Member 2 Deanna Mason

BERRIMAH Chairperson Jakson Evans Vice Chairperson Patrick Carson Secretary Sinead Stubbs Ordinary Member 1 Stuart Short Ordinary Member 2 Kyle Ferricks

CASUARINA

Chairperson Vacant Vice Chairperson Vacant Secretary Vacant Ordinary Member 1 Steven Langdon Ordinary Member 2 Vacant

JABIRU REGION Chairperson Kim Chambers Vice Chairperson Vacant Secretary Adam Goldsmith Ordinary Member 1 Vacant Ordinary Member 2 Timothy Lyness

IAN NANKIVELL

BRETT COTTIER

TREASURER

EXECUTIVE MEMBER

EXECUTIVE MEMBER

Drug & Organised Crime Squad

Darwin Station

Crime Division

PALMERSTON REGION

SPECIAL OPERATIONS & SUPPORT REGION Chairperson Neil Mellon Vice Chairperson Stuart Butcher Secretary Bryan Atkinson Ord. Member 1 Tim Hatton Ordinary Member 2 Mark Clemmens

CENTRAL REGION

SUPERINTENDENT’S REGION

MARK TURNER

DAVE CUBIS

KYLIE PROCTOR

EXECUTIVE MEMBER

EXECUTIVE MEMBER

Water Police

Palmerston Police Station

PFES College

LEE MORGAN

SIMONE PETERKEN

EXECUTIVE MEMBER

Chairperson Kris Evans Vice Chairperson Sean Parnell Secretary Vacant Ordinary Member 1 Jody Nobbs Ordinary Member 2 Lauren Hill

CONTRACT OFFICERS REGION

EXECUTIVE MEMBER

Chairperson David Proctor Vice Chairperson Kate Vanderlaan Secretary Brent Warren Ordinary Member 1 Vacant Ord. Member 2 Vacant

Crime Division

EXECUTIVE MEMBER Ramingining Police Station

JAKSON EVANS

EXECUTIVE MEMBER Katherine Station

As at 2 May 2017.

EXECUTIVE SUB COMMITTEE & PANELS 2016/2017 FINANCE COMMITTEE

WELFARE COMMITTEE

Treasurer Crispin Gargan (Chair) Paul McCue, Col Goodsell, Chris Wilson, Alex Brennan, Simone Peterken, Lee Morgan

Paul McCue, Crispin Gargan, Terry Simpson, Kylie Proctor, Brett Cottier, Lee Morgan

INDUSTRIAL COMMITTEE Paul McCue, Col Goodsell, Alex Brennan, Mark Soligo, Chris Wilson, Rob Perry, Lisa Bayliss

GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE

SELECTIONS/TRANSFER PANEL OBSERVERS COMMITTEE

PROMOTIONS APPEALS BOARD

Paul McCue, Col Goodsell, Kylie Proctor

UNIFORM & EQUIPMENT COMMITTEE Crispin Gargan, Dave Cubis As at 09/06/2016

06 NT POLICE NEWS

TERRY SIMPSON

EXECUTIVE MEMBER

EXECUTIVE MEMBER

PFES College

Alice Springs Field Intelligence Section

NTPA STAFF MEMBERS

Chris Wilson (Chair), Brett Cottier, Dave Cubis, Simone Peterken, Terry Simpson

Rotation all Executive Members

Louise Jorgensen, Tony Henrys, Michael Hebb

MATT MARSHALL

LEGAL ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE

Col Goodsell (Chair), Kylie Proctor, Crispin Gargan, Lee Morgan, Rob Perry, Mark Turner

TESSA PRINGLE

ROB PERRY

GEORGINA MURPHY

Office Manager

Industrial & Legal Officer

Communications Officer

NTPA ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRAINING AND CAREER ADVANCEMENT

INABILITY/DISCIPLINARY APPEALS BOARD Louise Jorgensen, Tony Henrys, Michael Hebb

During the opening speeches of the 2016 NTPA Annual Conference, the ongoing challenges of alcohol related harm in the Northern Territory (NT) remained front and centre.

There was a very good reason for this

Chairperson Joshua Cunningham Vice Chairperson Steven Downie Secretary Dean Elliot Ord. Member 1 Teagan McClure Ordinary Member 2 Ben Coleman

Chairperson Carl Marcic Vice Chairperson Steve Rankine Secretary Vacant Ordinary Member 1 Vacant Ordinary Member 2 Bryan Duffy

Chairperson Matt Ridolfi Vice Chairperson Nick Byrne Secretary Jason Dingle Ordinary Member 1 Blake Goodworth Ordinary Member 2 John Tickner

CRISPIN GARGAN

Time to get our police back on the beat

MARK SOLIGO

ZOEY KELLAWAY

Field Officer

Administration Officer

of course, at the time we were just a couple of weeks out from the NT Government election, and the issue of police resourcing and deployment was again the centre of attention.

The NT Police had just endured the end of a term in government which, as history shows, erased the trust of a large percentage of Territorians. No more so that our members, the Territory’s police, who still wear the resourcing scars of the biggest political game of policing football seen for some time. Of course, we are still seeing the effects of this chequered part of our recent history, and the community continues to suffer the effects of a lack of police recruitment.

The mere fact policing numbers have been in decline over the last term of government, while crime continues to rise, is selling the Territory community short. During my opening address to conference last year, I raised the ongoing challenge our members continue to battle with, the use of our police at bottle shops putting extreme strain not just on the frontline, but on the entire police force.

Paul McCue, President

"Disappointingly, poor policy surrounding alcohol in the Northern Territory continues to hamper our police officers in many ways. It is unfathomable we have a situation that exists that the only way government can see an answer to reducing the supply of alcohol in the community is to use highly trained professional police officers masquerading as security guards”.

“Aside from being an unsafe work practice, placing police officers, on their own, outside takeaway outlets have served no other purpose than to shift a problem from the profiteering licensee into the hands of police officers, and displace large groups of vulnerable people from their homes to places where alcohol is easier to access”.

Opening address 2016 NTPA Annual Conference – Paul McCue

With police numbers down by as much as 40 full time equivalent, and some 60 or more officers tied to bottle shops, the holes in the organisation are plain to see, and too large to fill. It is time for the alcohol industry in the NT to step up to the plate. It is time for the NT Labor government to put in place alcohol reform that goes beyond the comfort zone, and bring in all the players to the table. It’s time to make them accountable.

While we continue to see narrowminded opinion that can only see police as the solution, the entire community will suffer. Why on earth should the tax payer of the NT continue to foot the bill for highly trained police to do the work of security at bottle shops?

A recent decision in Alice Springs to pull traffic patrols into bottle shop duties during a road traffic campaign week, and to roster youth engagement officers on bottle shop duties while

youth crime escalates in our community, tells you where the priority lies. Our members are simply left scratching their head.

All the while, we have gaping holes in our police rosters, positions unable to be filled, members working extreme amounts of overtime to stop the leaking, all in a time where the wellbeing of officers is supposed to be at the forefront.

It’s time to make a statement, force the alcohol industry to sit at the table, and shoulder some of the responsibility for a community problem they have profiteered for decades on.

With the announcement of the expert panel to lead a review into the NT Alcohol Policies and Legislation in the coming months, now is the time to make a real difference, a generational change to reduce alcohol related harm throughout the NT, and importantly to get our police back on the beat.

Related article published in the Sunday Territorian can be seen on page 14.

JUNE 2017 07

Field officer's report

CA Negotiations – What a ride Mark Soligo, Field Officer

At the time of writing this article, we are at the back end of more than three long months of negotiations for our 2017 Consent Agreement (2017 CA).

At the negotiation table are the Commissioner’s representatives DCOP Nichols, the Director HRM and the HRM Manager. Also at the table are representatives of the Office of the Commissioner for Public Employment (OCPE), who are there on behalf of the NT Government, and of course, our NTPA team consisting of myself, President Paul McCue, Industrial and Legal Officer Rob Perry, Senior Vice President Col Goodsell, Executive member Lisa Bayliss and Regional Delegate Kris Evans. This has been my first experience being part of the NTPA negotiating team for a Consent Agreement and to say it has been interesting is an understatement, eye opening would be a better description.

The NTPA was, as usual, well prepared for the negotiations, and we had been planning for this for some time with our log of claims (based largely on the results and feedback provided by you, our members), being finalised and submitted to the other side in a timely manner, before Christmas last year, well ahead of the first meeting date scheduled for February. The idea being that it gives everyone else plenty of time to consider our claims, do some costings and be prepared for day one of negotiations. Now call me naïve, but here I am thinking that the other side would be just as prepared and organised as us; after all, we have all known this date has been coming for three years.

It’s not like it crept up on us.

So, on the 6 February we kicked off with the first 2017 Consent Agreement meeting and disappointingly the OCPE reps were a no show, (despite getting six weeks’ notice of the date) and the Commissioners reps had very little 08 NT POLICE NEWS

months, as Field Officer I continue to assist members with a variety of industrial, disciplinary, housing and welfare matters.

For the first four months of this year thus far over 140 members have contacted me seeking advice and assistance for a range of issues. Whilst I am happy to assist members, I also encourage you to also seek the assistance of your local Regional Delegates as well. This not only allows them the opportunity to provide assistance to you locally, but they become aware of the issues happening in their workplace as well.

I also remind members that if they have queries or issues related to their pay, entitlements, conditions of service or housing matters then PFES HRM is the best place to go in the first instance (not DCIS Payroll). I also recommend that when members are making such enquiries with HRM, that they do so via email, rather than phone calls, to ensure any follow up can be done if needed. If you are unsure if the advice you have been provided is correct, I am happy to review it if needed.

JESCC 12HOUR ROSTER TRIAL – NEVER SAY NEVER

prepared (or nothing they were sharing anyway). We continued as best we could, but to be honest, it was pointless. Meeting number two was cancelled to give the other side more time to prepare. We get to meeting number three and finally start to make a little progress around some of the smaller less complicated issues; three weeks on from where we should be but hey, at least it’s a start, we have something to work with.

We get to meeting number three and finally start to make a little progress around some of the smaller less complicated issues; three weeks on from where we should be but hey, at least it’s a start, we have something to work with.

As we rolled on into meeting after meeting, it became fairly evident that this was not going to be an easy task.

On 20 March, the other side finally presented a ‘first round offer’ to us, and oh what an offer it was. Firstly, they offered a five-year deal (despite us already strongly indicating that we would not consider one), then there was the introduction of an accrued personal leave system (something that we had also already dismissed) and then there was the rejection of many of the NTPA claims with little to no discussion.

We formally and graciously rejected this offer and prepared for further negotiations.

Then, despite our best-intentioned advice, the Department decided to

publish the first offer to members, via an internal broadcast, to gauge response. As expected, this obviously sparked a flurry of emails and phone calls from members to us here at NTPA HQ, confused and wondering what this offer was all about (‘WTF’ in Police terms) and seeking assurances from us that we were not even considering it. We weren’t and had already rejected it. You may have kept up to date with the proceedings (or lack of) through the eNews updates we sent out.

Negotiations continued over the following weeks, with some ground being made on several matters, but we were still a long way from reaching a deal that we, the negotiating team, felt was a worthy recognition of the tough job our members are doing out there, in every corner of the Territory. We had reached a stalemate in negotiations. Several more official and unofficial meetings were held in an effort for both sides to broker a deal, but alas, as I write this article, we are now into the third week of May (three weeks after the negotiation period should have concluded), and we disappointingly have nothing to put to members to vote on.

The guns of war have gone silent.

Now I can only hope that by the time you are all reading this article, that the Territory Labor government has found a way to recognise, reward and thank all of you for the tough job you do as Police Officers serving the community of the Northern Territory, and has come to the party and offered you a fair and equitable salary increase. If not, well I guess were still hammering away. I hope not.

In May, I attended several meetings with our NTPA Auxiliary Region Delegates from the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre (JESCC) along with JESCC Management to try and see if a 12-hour roster trial for the Police members working in the JESCC could get any traction and support. You will recall that in early 2012 the previous 12hr roster, worked in both Katherine and the JESCC, was removed by senior management with the belief by all that it was gone for good, a very unpopular decision. Well, never say never. Thanks to the hard work done by the new JESCC Divisional Superintendent Brendan Muldoon and our NTPA Auxiliary Regional Delegates, approval has been gained for the JESCC to trial a 12hr roster for a four-month period. If during the trial period the KPIs for reduced sick leave and overtime can be met, the roster is likely to be permanently implemented. This is a significant win that demonstrates that with some hard work and a cooperative approach, a positive change can happen.

UPDATE YOUR MEMBER DETAILS – FIND THE FORM ON PAGE 11

You will notice in this edition of the magazine a section for you to update your member contact details. The recent NTPA Executive Elections highlighted that there were several members who have not updated their current address and contact details with us, resulting in them not receiving ballot papers from the Australian Electoral Commission. We do not use COIN or other internal PFES systems to know that your details have changed and rely solely on the information in our own NTPA database. Please take two minutes to complete the members’ details form and return it to us. Even if you haven’t had a change in your details for some time, it will confirm for us that what we have recorded is correct. If you don’t tell us, we don’t know.

In finish off, I leave you with a quote from Sun Tzu’s The Art of War, which kind of sums up the 2017 CA Negotiation process:

Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win.

MEMBER ASSISTANCE

Whilst the Consent Agreement negotiations have obviously been a key focus here at NTPA HQ over the last few

Above top: Regional meeting in Alice Springs; bottom: Casuarina Regional meeting

JUNE 2017 09

Industrial/legal

NORTHERN TERRITORY

POLICE ASSOCIATION

NTPA – Not Just Wage Negotiations and Legal Assistance Rob Perry, Industrial & Legal Officer

Your Association works hard over the term of each Consent Agreement to prepare for the next round of enterprise bargaining negotiations to ensure you – our members – receive the best remuneration and terms and conditions that we can get, given the economic and social climates of the day.

Once agreed to, we also ensure that members’ workplace

rights are protected and where necessary, fought for where an issue arises in which those rights are disputed or there is a question as to the interpretation of those rights. This happens more often than some members might think.

We also ensure NTPA members who are the subject of legal proceedings arising out of the course of their employment are properly protected against expensive legal costs in defending such proceedings, be it criminal or civil – even in cases where the Commissioner declines to cover those costs (a reasonably regular occurrence).

But there are other services that we provide that you may not have turned your mind to when you joined up or when considering whether there is value in your membership of your Association.

To begin with, your Association will assist in responding to disciplinary/complaints against police matters and will advocate on your behalf should you be unfortunate enough to be charged with a serious breach of discipline and are the subject of a disciplinary hearing.

We will also assist members who are the subject of Part V of the PAA “inability/invalidity” proceedings that could lead to attempts at early retirement.

Members are also able to access “welfare” loans of up to $10,000 on an interest free basis to help them overcome short term personal financial difficulties in a broad range of circumstances.

Then there is the $50,000 life insurance policy that all NTPA members are covered by should they die during their career as a sworn member of the Northern Territory Police Force. This insurance has meant loved ones left behind have been afforded a greater financial security than they might otherwise have had if the deceased was not a member of your Association. Whilst not a topic of general discussion, it’s nice to know in the back of your mind that your family have that added financial protection.

10 NT POLICE NEWS

We also provide assistance with matters such as workers’ compensation claims. Your Association can assist in the preparation of claims, as well as representing members at mediation conferences where claims are rejected at the first instance. Members are also able to access discounted legal representation should a claim ultimately need to be determined in the Work Health Court. We can also assist members in investigating whether an accepted claim can be settled by payment of a “lump sum” payment in lieu of ongoing compensation payments in appropriate circumstances.

We also actively promote pastoral care for our members to protect their mental as well as physical wellbeing and continue to advocate for improved services in that space.

There is also the issue of illness/injury not manifesting until after a member has retired/resigned from the Police Force. Your Association will continue to assist an ex-sworn member of the Police Force in the years after separation if they were fully paid up members of the Association at the time of their resignation/retirement for workers’ compensation and other welfare issues. This can be done directly or through the Retired Police Association.

Your Association is always assessing and reassessing our services to you, our members. This is why we undertake member surveys on a semi-regular basis to review our effectiveness and seek input as to where and how our services can be improved and/or expanded.

So if you know someone who is not a member of your Association (there are a few), you might like to point out the many services and protections we offer to all our members.

Finally, I reported in the March edition that the Chinese zodiac prophesised that we as an Association should “expect challenges because the Rooster is the Rabbit’s exact opposite.

Prepare for all sorts of difficulties in 2017, especially financial.

Hard work is foreseen, bringing frustration and anger. Stay calm, dear Rabbit.”

More will be said on the enterprise bargaining negotiations in the next issue of the NT Police News, however what I can say now is that the Chinese zodiac really is prophetic, particularly with regards to the bit about “hard work is foreseen, bringing frustration and anger”!

MEMBER DETAILS Your details Full Name: Preferred Name: D D M M Y Y Y Y Date of Birth:

Sex: Male Female

Registration Number: Rank: Appointment Date: Location:

NTPA Region: Duties: Your Postal Address*: Suburb/Postcode Postal Address for Election/Ballot Papers**: Suburb/Postcode

Phone Work: Mobile: Home:

Email Work: Home: * It is very useful for us to have an address, other than a work one, for Election/Ballot information.

In the past people have been on leave and have not received this information.

This address would be for NTPA purposes only and would not be disclosed. ** If different to the address listed above.

Please return this completed form to reception@ntpa.com.au or GPO Box 2350, Darwin NT 0801 JUNE 2017 11

Advertisement

A worrying attitude that’s killing men “It’s probably nothing.”

These words tend to have devastating significance in healthcare.

Far too often we hear regret from distraught patients and family members wishing they had seen their doctor or health specialist sooner.

If only they hadn't ignored the warning signs. If only they’d had a check-up the problem would have been diagnosed and treated before it became life threatening.

Significantly, it’s a scenario that is far more likely to concern men than women.

For when it comes to personal health and being prodded and probed by a doctor or dentist, men often turn a blind eye, and put it down to getting older or believe symptoms will just go away.

We’ve got your back.

Even the most experienced police officers who never hesitate at putting their own safety at risk in the line of duty, baulk when it comes to seeing a doctor. And that’s a serious mistake.

The tragedy is that thousands of men of all ages are dying unnecessarily from treatable conditions simply because they fail to visit a doctor.

It’s one of the reasons why men have a shorter lifespan than women – on average they die about five years earlier.

Monty Python Syndrome…

“It’s only a flesh wound” Research into doctor visits in Australia and the US has highlighted the extent of the gender gap – and the difference is considerable.

One survey found that men are half as likely as women to visit a doctor over a two-year period and more than three times less likely over five years. Men are also more than twice as likely to say they’ve never had contact with a doctor or health professional as an adult.

Policing is all about looking out for other people, so it’s important to have someone looking out for you. At Police Health, not only do we stand by the force, we stand with it as well.

For more than 80 years, we’ve been run by police for police and their families, so we understand everything you need in a health fund - including great customer service. It’s why over 50,000 members of the policing community Australia-wide trust their health insurance needs to us. At Police Health, we’ve got your back.

For more information call us on 1800 603 603 or visit policehealth.com.au

Men have a tendency to ignore persistent aches and pains and even lumps on their body – all potential indicators of something serious – in the hope that they’ll disappear.

They are also less likely to be honest with their doctor and fail to mention symptoms when they do eventually get to the surgery.

Researchers have tried to pinpoint exactly why it is that males are so reluctant to have their health checked.

Reasons given include being too busy, along with shame, discomfort and, invariably, fear.

One psychological study blamed the need for men to present a masculine image of bravery and self-reliance – and they see going to the doctor as a sign of weakness.

After all, what you don't know won't hurt you, right?

We all know that’s a ridiculous attitude.

Prevention programs are a vital part of health care so be brave and see your GP. It could save you years of misery, pain and an early death.

Preventative health checks In developed countries about seven in every 10 people die from a chronic illness such as cancer, heart disease or diabetes.

increase the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

• Skin cancer – self-check regularly for suspicious lumps or spots and every year with your doctor.

• Dental – at least once a year.

• Testicular cancer – for men, self-checks every month and by a doctor for unusual lumps or swellings of the testes.

• Cervical cancer – for women, Pap smears every two years even if you’ve had the cervical cancer vaccine.

40 onwards • Glaucoma – Eye tests every two years because glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in Australia.

• Breast cancer – for women, monthly self-checks and a mammogram every two years.

• Cervical cancer – for women, Pap smears every two years even if you’ve had the cervical cancer vaccine.

50 onwards • Prostate cancer – annual checks for men and from the age of 40 if you have a family history.

• Osteoporosis – a bone density scan every five years.

• Colon (Bowel) cancer – a faecal occult blood test every two years.

Many of these conditions can be avoided or successfully treated if the warning signs are caught early.

In addition to these regular health checks, see your doctor immediately if you have any unexplained or worrying symptom.

How often you have preventive checkups depends on your age, health and risk factors for certain diseases. Here are some guidelines for both men and women, however your GP may recommend a more tailored prevention plan depending on your risk factors and medical history:

healthbeat risk assessment Police Health members aged 18 and over who have hospital cover can assess their health risks using our free online healthbeat portal.

20 onwards • Blood pressure – at least every two years because high blood pressure is a major cause of stroke, heart disease and heart failure.

• Cholesterol and glucose – every two to five years because high levels

Those identified at risk can then join a chronic disease management program which covers many conditions including (but not limited to) diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, mental health and coronary heart disease.

For more information about healthbeat visit www.policehealth.com.au or call 1800 603 603.

Police Health Ph: 1800 603 603 www.policehealth.com.au

Opinion

A time for decisive action

by Paul McCue The following opinion piece authored by Paul McCue was published in the Sunday Territorian on Sunday 14 May. A similar article ran in the Centralian Advocate.

Excess alcohol consumption is one of the biggest, and most prevalent burdens in our community. Surely that is a bipartisan statement to make.

There is immense cost, and not just financial, to livelihoods, health, education, and the future of our kids. And that’s before we start to rack up the bottom line effect on the public purse in dollar terms.

That’s why it makes sense to look at every aspect of the supply of alcohol into towns across every corner of the Territory, and for government to legislate and develop policy accordingly.

Prevention is better than cure, no surprise there. But who should be paying?

It should be expected that the taxpayer funds part of the solution, just as we fund public education, hospitals and roads, for example.

But the responsibility does not sit wholly and solely with the taxpayer, nor should it sit solely with our Police and their fellow frontline workers who are the first, and sometimes only point of call to help.

This is not about electorates or the Berrimah line. Selfinterest and electoral cycles must give way to courageous decisions leading to long term and meaningful outcomes.

Greater cooperation amongst stakeholders, starting with the liquor industry, should be a core focus to tackle excess supply into the community.

Everyone has the right to operate a business, but that right comes with responsibility. There must be greater focus on the alcohol industry itself, the retail outlets and the wholesalers who profit from the high consumption and resultant harm the rest of us are left to pick up the pieces for and foot the bill.

By his own admission, the Chief Minister says that alcoholrelated harm continues to be the biggest social challenge in the Northern Territory.

The reintroduction of the Banned Drinkers Register (BDR) is a welcome measure.

The BDR should be viewed as just one tool in a suite of options that allows the Territory to not only better control the

14 NT POLICE NEWS

Get tough and use our Police better, writes the NT News editorial team on Sunday 14 May.

flow of alcohol into the community, but work to minimise the harm is causes – personally, socially and economically - when consumed excessively.

The cold harsh reality is it is the Police who currently carry the proverbial can for tackling supply.

The question has to be asked why?

Why do we insist on tasking up professional Police Officers to stand and act as a security guard to a (profit-making) private business, removing them from first response patrols to the ever increasing private and commercial crime throughout the Territory?

Currently in Alice Springs, Tennant Creek and Katherine there are more than 60 fully trained Police Officers tied solely to rosters on POSI work, acting as a pseudo security guard and not able to perform real Police duties.

To put that into perspective, that is the equivalent of 30 Police response vehicles patrolling the streets, working for all of the community proactively preventing crime.

Despite government pushing back the responsibility of POSI duties to the Commissioner of Police, the reality is until the BDR is introduced, your tax funded Police Officers will continue to shoulder the burden at the point of sale and be left to pick up the social mess once the alcohol is consumed.

President Paul McCue's opinion piece and subsequent article as it appeared in Sunday Territorian 14 May.

The new BDR model, for which the Bill was introduced to Parliament this week, will work to address some of the harm caused by excess consumption, however, it fails to address supply specifically. Furthermore, there seems to be very little movement towards introducing other initiatives to support the BDR and built a suite of options.

As the representative body of the Territory’s Police Officers, the Northern Territory Police Association listens to and speaks for the cops who are required to respond to the expected results of excess grog in our communities, at every corner of the Territory, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

The tap for Police work, seemingly just like the tap for alcohol in the Northern Territory, never turns off.

It’s time for the Territory government to heighten regulation of the access to alcohol and its consumption in the Northern Territory.

The government’s own statistics reference one takeaway liquor outlet for every 353 adults in the Territory. The question must be asked do we need that many licenced takeaways?

A reduction of outlets, which could be facilitated via license buy back scheme, should be discussed, as should the fees charged to operate a takeaway licence. Let’s not forget, this is the source of the problem.

There must be stricter control and review mechanisms in place for those who profit from selling alcohol.

In addition to this, stricter regulation must take place, including an increase in penalties for those found to be selling alcohol using secondary supply. This should be coupled with increased penalties – including heftier fines, suspension or loss of license – for (licensed) outlets and individuals that break the law selling grog.

Let’s also not forget, the government already has an enforcement arm of Licensing which should be better resourced, and further empowered, to coordinate a strategic approach in monitoring all takeaway licensed venues across the Territory.

But these suggestions are about more than legislation, remedies such as this strike at the very heart of the Territory’s drinking problems – the industry that profits from the harm in our community.

It is time for some tough and decisive action in the Territory, otherwise those that come behind us for generations to come will be left to have the same discussion we’re are having now, which were the same discussions taking place decades ago too.

It’s time for the community to be the winner over politics and profits.

JUNE 2017 15

Advertisement

You might not know everything about the Northern Territory

By Paul Modra, Executive Manager – Member Value & Distribution, Police Credit Union You don’t need us to tell you that the Northern Territory is an eclectic and exciting mix of people, activities, animals, things to do, see and so much more… We consider ourselves lucky to have a Police Credit Union branch amongst it all!

From the tropical beaches at the Top End to the vast beauty of the Red Centre, there really is something for everyone. So to celebrate being a “Territorian” we have put together a list of eight things you might not have known about the Northern Territory…

1. The NT is home to the most isolated and remote set of traffic lights in the country. Found in a tiny town about a third of the way from Darwin to Alice Springs known as Daly Waters, this little gem in the middle of the desert also happens to be home to the Territory’s oldest pub! Now you have two reasons to visit!

6.

More croc facts – did you know that, on average, there are five crocodiles per kilometre in most rivers in the Northern Territory? Did you know that at Police Credit Union that we love crocs so much that we have one in our Casuarina branch?

Don’t worry, he isn’t as big as Cassius and he is very friendly!

7.

Every year, over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend, the Tatts Finke Desert Race takes place – one of the most difficult off road, multi terrain two-day race for bikes, cars, buggies and quads in one of the most remote places in the world. With over 600 competitors racing over 460km, it is now one of the biggest annual sporting events in the NT. This year we will be supporting a serving member of the Northern Territory Police Force as he takes on the off road challenge!

2.

Normally a regatta would involve water, but not in the Northern Territory. The red dirt of Alice Springs plays host to the world’s ONLY land regatta. The Henley-on-Todd will be running for its 56th year in 2017 and was recently declared an iconic event by the NT Government.

8.

Did you also know that Police Credit Union, with its roots in both the Northern Territory and South Australia, has Australia’s lowest rate credit card! The Police Credit Union SoLo Credit Card has a rate of 6.99% P.A. and no annual or monthly fees.^ All you need to do is call us on 1300 131 844, visit your local Casuarina branch or talk to your Personal Banker, David Hair on 0458 083 270. Our Personal Banking service is yours exclusively as a Platinum Member!

3.

It was back in December 1869 that the first Inspector, Paul Foelsche, was commissioned by the Governor… did you know that, at this time, the police uniform consisted of a short cut-away blue serge tunic with nine regulation buttons, silver twisted cord shoulder knots, black braid on the sleeves and silver chevrons for non-commissioned officers. It was the same uniform worn by officers in South Australia and was NOT very tropical-climate friendly!

As a proud and local Credit Union we always aim to provide a better experience for our Members and the community that we live in. We are inspired by the diverse and colourful nature of the Northern Territory and its people, so we continue to sponsor and support the things that help this special area thrive – like our entrant in the Tatts Finke Desert Race and the Northern Territory Police Association. It’s not just about better banking but also about better communities.

4.

We all know that Uluru is a spectacular World Heritage Listed Site, but did you know that it rises more than 860 metres above sea level? That’s higher than the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Chrysler Building in New York City! No wonder more than 250,000 people from around the world visit each year.

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Many people associate the Top End with crocodiles and it’s no wonder with the world’s largest crocodile in captivity having been captured in the Finniss River in NT. Cassius, a male saltwater croc, came in at 5.48m in length and weighed a hefty 968kg. Don’t smile at that crocodile.

Police Credit Union Ltd ABN 30 087 651 205 AFSL 238991

16 NT POLICE NEWS

Australia’s lowest rate credit card

SoLo credit card is provided by Police Credit Union Ltd (PCU) ABN 30 087 651 205 AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 238991. Terms, conditions, fees, charges and lending criteria apply. Full details upon request. Interest rate is correct at 10/4/17 and is subject to change. There are no interest free days. The information provided herein does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. Please consider your circumstances before deciding if the product is right for you. Guardian Fraud Protection offers a money back guarantee only if members have not directly contributed to the fraud and have notified PCU promptly of the fraud.

BOOK review

Family Violence – Busting the myths Like so many police, counselling psychologist Carmel O’Brien has been on the frontline of family violence. She has worked with victims and perpetrators for nearly 25 years. As the former director of clinical services at Doncare she developed a number of programs to assist them.

An expert in the field, Carmel found herself responding again and again to the same myths about family violence. Claims that men and women are equal perpetrators and victims of violence. Or that women often exaggerate claims of family violence. And that perpetrators must be mentally ill or had experienced family violence as a child.

None of those myths can withstand scrutiny.

This is a ground-breaking book that informs and enlightens on the subject of family violence.

Blame Changer is receiving rare praise and endorsement from those who work in the family violence sector. Robert Andrew, the clinical manager for domestic violence services for Relationships Australia in Western Australia, said: ‘I will have no hesitation in recommending your book to women who come to our service who have had exactly the experiences you mention in your book. This is the first book I have ever felt comfortable to recommend.’

Robert has worked in the field for 20 years.

Blame Changer is ideal for police because it provides a general explanation about the context of family violence, the thinking of offenders and the experience of victims. It also has chapters on the Family Court, and efforts to stop family violence.

Police know better than any profession the extent of family violence in Australia. In Victoria there are more than 70,000 incidents a year. Across Australia police deal with more than 650 family violence incidents every day — that’s about 240,000 a year, or about one every two minutes.

Blame Changer is a book that will alter your thinking about family violence.

Available for $24.95 with free shipping from www.threekookaburras.com Ebooks available from Amazon and Apple.

To win one of three copies of "Blame Changer" email georgina.murphy@ntpa.com.au and you'll go in the draw!

18 NT POLICE NEWS

Police Health needs your help to spread the word to your colleagues in emergency services.

Police Health has often been asked if emergency services personnel can join Police Health.

In response, we’ve launched Emergency Services Health – a new not-for-profit private health fund exclusive to the emergency services community. It’s backed by Police Health, extending the quality cover previously only police officers and their families could access to our colleagues in the emergency services. If you know someone who volunteers or works in emergency services, share our news of the new health fund by: • Sharing your member experiences with Police Health • Tell them to like us on facebook.com/EmergencyServicesHealth • Check out our cover eshealth.com.au We look forward to supporting the emergency services community in the same way Police Health has supported the police community for over 80 years.

For more information visit eshealth.com.au, follow us on Facebook or call us on 1300 703 703.

Emergency Services Health Pty Ltd ABN 98 131 093 877

ThanK you campaign

Budget 2017-18

It’s a tough job

ce and our Poli

ilies,

their fam

u o y k n tha to

Budget 2017-18:

Territory front line looking for more than a PROMIS The first NTG budget under the new Labor government was released by Treasurer Nicole Manison on 2 May 2017.

Valuing the Territory’s Police.

05.10.2017 13:38

News Corp Australia Proof ©

Advertisement artwork courtesy NT News.

We’re saying thank you In May, we kicked off an advertising campaign to say thank you, publicly to our members, each and every one of you.

We published advertisements in the NT News, Centralian Advocate, on radio and on our Facebook page. Our campaign kicked off on May the Fourth, which provided some fun fodder about the Police Force (as opposed to Fourth) and received some fantastic feedback from members of the wider community who were keen to say thank you too.

In saying thank you, and publishing these advertisements across both traditional and new media, we aimed to highlight,

20 NT POLICE NEWS

once again, the dangerous, difficult and unpredictable nature of Police work. We thought the words ‘it’s a tough job’ summed that up in someway.

We aimed to draw the community’s attention to the work our members do 24/7, 365 days of the year and across every corner of the Territory. The dangers you’re exposed to, the challenges and some of the resulting affects policing has on you, and your friends and family.

With several announcements already made in the lead up to the release date regarding Police, no real surprises were delivered.

In summary, $876 million was allocated to support Police and Emergency Services, including • $44.9 million to replace PROMIS • $26 million to construct the new Palmerston Police station, including a 24/7 watchouse facility • $8 million for the new Katherine Fire Station – freeing up additional space for Police at the current facility • $5 million in 17/18 increasing to $15.75 million by 19/20 for police recruiting toward additional 120 FTE • $2 million for expanded CCTV network In addition to this, government has committed to $17.2 million to re-establish the Banned Drinkers Register (BDR) and related programs and services, to be operational from 1 September 2017.

Of particular note during Budget 2017-18 release, was the ongoing reference to the ‘difficult economic environment’ the government, and Territory, is facing. This was further heightened by the reduction in GST revenue, announced in the weeks prior to the Budget’s presentation.

Budget documents state: “In the development of the 2017-18 Budget the Territory government has been presented with a number of immediate fiscal challenges, namely: • A significant reduction in estimated GST revenues totalling $2 billion over forward estimates;

• The need to fund ongoing demand for government services, predominately in the areas of education and community services; and • Moderating economic conditions in the Territory, requiring increased infrastructure spending to stimulate the economy.”

With a bleak economic forecast, it was with some interest that we saw a budget which appeared to spend, spend, spend, and despite recognition to fund ongoing demand for government services, saw expectations of cuts to the public sector expenses of $55 million in the first year, rising to $95 million in the second year.

Without doubt, one area our community cannot simply do without is the ever-increasing need for services in law and order.

As Police numbers having declined over the last four years, and the Chief Minister has committed t to maximising recruitment over his first term of government, we will be monitoring the Annual Report figures closely to avoid a repeat of the last government and subsequent resourcing issues.

As Paul McCue stated to media during Budget announcements, “there is no doubt, in the current climate of soaring crime rates across the Territory, now is not the time to cut the resources to our Police.”

“The government must now ensure it stays true to its commitments as outlined in today’s Budget, and embark on its promised recruitment drive as a priority to increase the boots on the ground.

“Resourcing and filling rosters continues to be a challenge for Police Stations from the bush to the major centres, and we are entrusting this government to deliver on its promises to work towards fixing this issue.”

JUNE 2017 21

Advertisement

Bryan Atkinson

By Dwayne Hameister Managing Director Australian Financial Advisers – Darwin

Australian Financial Advisers Northern Territory Police Association

JUNE 2017

Protect your family's future by thinking ahead Nothing is as important as your family. So it’s worth asking how they would cope if you were suddenly unable to care for them. Getting the right insurance cover could be more affordable than you think.

NATSEM calculates that a typical family in that situation could end up losing more than half its income. Yet they also report that only 4% of Australian families with dependent children have enough insurance cover.

If you have a young family who relies on you, it’s important to ask how they’d cope if you were struck down by a sudden accident or illness.

You may think you are already covered through your superannuation — and it’s true that insurance through super can be very cost-effective, allowing you to effectively pay your premiums from your pre-tax contributions. But insurance through super is often one-size-fits all, making it important to check that the automatic level of cover provided by your super fund is enough for you and your family.

Without you and the financial security you provide, your loved ones could struggle to cover everyday expenses like rent or mortgage payments, school fees, power and water bills, even groceries. A sudden loss of income could mean selling the family home and radically changing the lifestyle you’ve worked so hard to build.

And risk protection isn’t just for families. With no second income to fall back on, singles can find it just as hard when an illness or injury stops them working, even for a short time.

That’s why everyone needs to think carefully about insurance.

DO YOU HAVE ENOUGH COVER?

“We have recently built a new house, and I was keen to ensure my family would be looked after should something happen to me. Dwayne at AFA was able to source life and total permanent disability insurance (TPD) for me at a very reasonable premium and now our family feels more secure, in the case of ‘what if”.

And, while most super funds offer life insurance (payable on death or permanent disability), they may not include other types of cover, such as income protection or critical illness, which could prove essential to protecting your family and your lifestyle.

To arrange an obligation free consultation to review your current circumstances contact Dwayne Hameister from Australian Financial Advisers on 08 89 234100.

Unfortunately, the risks are real. Research from the University of Canberra’s National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling (NATSEM) has found that one in five Australian families will be affected by the death of a working age parent, or a serious accident or illness that leaves a parent unable to work.

Bryan Atkinson Important information and disclaimer: This publication has been prepared by PDA Financial Planning Pty Ltd trading as Australian Financial Advisers who are Authorised Representatives of GWM Adviser Services Limited trading as MLC Financial Planning Australian Financial Service Licensee.

Any advice in this publication is of a general nature only and has not been tailored to your personal circumstances. Accordingly, reliance should not be placed on the information contained in this document as the basis for making any financial investment, insurance or other decision. Please seek personal advice prior to acting on this information.

Information in this publication is accurate as at the date of writing (December 2016). In some cases the information has been provided to

22 NT POLICE NEWS

us by third parties. While it is believed the information is accurate and reliable, the accuracy of that information is not guaranteed in any way.

Opinions constitute our judgement at the time of issue and are subject to change. Neither the Licensee nor any member of the NAB Group, nor their employees or directors give any warranty of accuracy, not accept any responsibility for errors or omissions in this document.

Any general tax information provided in this publication is intended as a guide only and is based on our general understanding of taxation laws. It is not intended to be a substitute for specialised taxation advice or an assessment of your liabilities, obligations or claim entitlements that arise, or could arise, under taxation law, and we recommend you consult with a registered tax agent.

For further information and advice, contact the AFA team on (08) 8923 4100 or darwin@afanet.com.au or drop in and see us at Ground Floor, William Forster Chambers Building, 26 Harry Chan Avenue, Darwin. Also like the AFA page on facebook – Australian Financial Advisers – Darwin, for regular updates, information and competitions.

JUNE 2017 23

Health and wellbeing

The ESS welcomes Lisa Burkenhagen Lisa began her career with the NT Police in April 2005 as a front counter Auxiliary, working at stations across Darwin.

During her work at Palmerston station, Lisa learnt more about the role of our Aboriginal Community Police Officers (ACPO), and decided to apply for the next ACPO Squad, she was successful with her application and was soon marching out of Police College as one of our newest ACPOs. Lisa quickly became a mentor for her fellow ACPOs and was awarded ACPO of the year in 2008. She was thrilled to travel across the Territory with then Commissioner Paul White and NT Administrator Tom Pauling QC and Tony Fuller, who was Superintendent of the Indigenous Policing Development Division (IPDD) in 2010, visiting various communities, an experience Lisa said she’ll never forget.

Lisa is looking forward to further promoting the role of the WHOs and encouraging members to use the services and take of support available.

The ESS team has welcomed Lisa Burkenhagen to the fold, as she takes on a relieving role while Wellbeing and Health Officer (WHO) Marcus Tilbrook is on leave.

Dr G returning to the NT! We’re excited to announce a return visit for Dr Kevin Gilmartin, Ph.D. Dr Gilmartin first visited the Territory in 2014, and more recently, conducted sessions in Darwin and Alice Springs in February 2016.

Author

Already, Lisa says that moments where members have said things like “thanks for caring and taking the time to call” and “thanks for listening” are rewarding.

Lisa joins Karen O’Dwyer as a Northern region WHO and Brodie Anderson, the WHO for Southern region.

Contact details are: Lisa Burkenhagen (Northern region): 0459 854 788 Karen O’Dwyer (Northern region):

0491 227 022

Brodie Anderson (Southern region):

0476 854 368

of the well-publicised book, ‘Emotional Survival for Law Enforcement,’ Dr Gilmartin sends a strong message for police officers and their families on three emotional survival aspects that he has seen impact on generations of officers: • Personal life and physical health of employees • Organisational relationships • Ethical decision making

During his visit to the NT in February 2016, we spoke with several attendees after both sessions in Darwin and Alice Springs who provided a common message, “he just spoke about me for three hours.”

We’re thrilled to welcome back Dr Gilmartin to present in Darwin this year and we thank the Commissioner of Police and our partner Police Health for again coming on board to support this important presentation.

Dr Gilmartin’s sessions will be held on Wednesday 27 September 2017. Further details will be shared as they are finalised.

Please email Georgina.Murphy@ntpa.com.au or phone 08 8995 9520 for more information.

For after-hours support please call the On-Call Psychologist on 08 8995 5422.

Wellbeing and Health Officers The introduction of the Wellbeing and Health Officers (WHOs) announced by the Commissioner of Police, Reece P Kershaw APM at our 2015 annual NTPA conference, is one of a suite of welfare related initiatives our Association has strongly agitated and advocated for in recent years.

Members will recall, under previous Police management, there was severe under-resourcing and in some instances, complete removal, of welfare services for our members. We campaigned publicly, and privately with Commissioner Kershaw (on his appointment in 2015) by both former and current NTPA Executive to see that member welfare again sat ‘front and centre’ of the Department’s concerns for its employees, our members.

The role of WHOs, of which there are three sworn Police Officers working across the tri service, were reinstated after the removal of the previously named ‘Welfare Officers.’

24 NT POLICE NEWS

The reintroduction of a peer support program and welcoming back of a fulltime Police Chaplain in Darwin, and a part time Chaplain in Alice Springs have been welcomed with open arms.

Commissioner Kershaw’s commitment to welfare was further displayed when he co-funded (with our Association) a needs assessment by independent, not for profit group Alongside. NTPA introduced Alongside to the Northern Territory Police Force and welcomed the Commissioner’s support for the engagement of Alongside to work with our members, and their families with support programs across the Territory.

But as always, there is more to be done.

At a national level, the Police Federation of Australia (PFA) continues to explore opportunities to provide support for Police Officers across Australia as well as building awareness of the challenges of policing. There are some exciting initiatives in the pipeline, which we look forward to sharing with our members in forthcoming months.

In our own office and across the Territory, in servicing our members, our Association will always work to improve the welfare and support provided to the Territory’s cops.

Dr Kevin Gilmartin was a popular presenter when he last visited the Territory, he will be back again on Wednesday 27 September, proudly presented by our Association, Police Health and the Commissioner of Police.

JUNE 2017 25

Rugby

Health and Wellbeing Continued

Supporting our police This opinion piece, authored by Paul McCue was published in the Centralian Advocate newspaper in May, following an interview with Commissioner Reece Kershaw, that was published in a prior edition.

As the independent voice of the Territory’s Police Officers, the Police Association proudly represents nearly every single cop, in every corner of the Northern Territory.

Without doubt, we share the sentiment of Commissioner Kershaw around the importance of wellbeing in the workplace and the welfare of our Police.

As the Chief Minister said last week, “Police have a tough job to do – and do it well”.

Let’s be clear, this tough job is not getting any easier.

In recent years, we have advocated strongly to the Commissioner, and his predecessor, the need for a holistic approach to support services for our Police and for their family members.

The Commissioner has implemented a raft of improved services and support for our members which we commend, but as always, there is more to be done.

We all know that prevention is better than cure, and contributing factors to the stress of Police work, and what impacts the welfare of our members, must be assessed on an ongoing basis.

Resources, rostering, access to leave, flexible working arrangements, isolation, exposure to trauma and a lack of equipment or vehicles all contribute adversely to the welfare of the Territory’s cops.

As the Commissioner has highlighted, the Territory’s Police Officers are never not at work. They don’t ‘switch off’ as their shift ends, even if they physically leave the station, the scene of the crime or the traffic accident they have attended, they can never erase that experience, or that memory.

Switching off, literally, was something our Association asked our members about in a recent extensive survey we conducted. The results were alarming, with many officers trawling through work emails for up to five hours a week in their own time. This practice must stop, and senior management should encourage Police Officers to be completely “off duty” when they are at not at work.

Improving the welfare of Police Officers not only means providing support for those that are broken, but will go a long way to fixing the problems that cause the breaks to begin with.

26 NT POLICE NEWS

The Alice Springs Police Camp Dogs

By Matt Hughes

The Alice Springs Police Camp Dogs played in the Central Australian Rugby Football League 9’s (CARFL) competition in May. There were eight teams in all competing, so they were split into two pools.

Our first game was against Central Bulls, who are a local team that competes in the CARFL competition and were eventual grand finalists for the day. It was a hard-fought game that we lost by about 10 points.

The second game was against a team from Yuendumu, which is a small Indigenous community 300kms west of

Alice Springs. This was a fast-paced game that we won by about 12 points.

Our final game of the day was against United Magpies, another CARFL team, and was for a place in the semi-final.

This was the best game of the day and went right to the final whistle and slightly beyond. We scored under the posts and kicked to conversion to go 1 point in front with a minute left to play. United got the ball from the kick off and scored 3 plays later after the final whistle to snatch the lead and win the game.

All in all, it was a great day out and the mighty Camp Dogs were by no means disgraced, especially considering that we did not get to train as a whole team prior to game day.

Thanks to the NTPA for your support which allowed us the opportunity to participate in the competition.

JUNE 2017 27

Basketball

Cricket

A day on the dirt pitch, the annual Bushies vs. Police cricket match at Harts Range.

Bushies vs Police Photos are of the 2016 Championships, held in Perth. Top photos: NT womens team in action on court; Team photos (left to right): Mens Champions; NT contingent in Perth; NT versus Victoria womens team

Calling for basketball players The 39th Australasian Police Basketball Championships will be held in Sydney in October.

28 NT POLICE NEWS

The Territory will be sending a contingent to the harbour city, and already, the NT Police Basketball Association is assembling a group of players for the courtside action.

This year’s competition is expected to welcome some 300 Police to Sydney for the week-long championships. All jurisdictions as well as members from the Federal Police and New Zealand will take to the court.

Our Association is proud to support the teams again this year, and encourage interested members who may like to partake in the competition to please contact Ben Higgins Benjamin.Higgins@pfes.nt.gov.au for more information.

Annual Cricket Match at Harts Range By Brodie Anderson It was that time of year again at the end of May. As the temperature drops the competition begins to heat up… Bring on the rivalry. Who was going to take the honours? Whose name was ending up on the trophy at the end of the 20/20?

Bringing in the rear was Police with the Bushies winning the last meet, so preparations were fierce. Police were represented

by Harts Range Members, Arlparra Members, the A/Commander of Southern Region using the father/son rule, two Alice Springs Members and a PFES Administration worker. To boost numbers the clinic manager and two other Harts Range aides stepped up to the crease. The bushies from down the red dirt track were represented by Lucy Creek, Mt Riddock, Huckitta, Indiana, Ammaroo and a couple of townies for good measure.

There was plenty of good hearted banter and sledging on field – possibly more from the umpire than anyone else on the pitch.

By the time the sun began to set the Police had come home with the win and therefore bragging rights ‘til we meet again in 2018.

Joe Cooper received Best and Fairest for the Police, Pete Gawler was awarded Best and Fairest for the Bushies, and Peter Nicolson from Bushies taking the Wackiest Player award away.

Big thanks go to the Bushies for hosting yet another fantastic fun filled day. Everyone left with full bellies with the exceptional catering and a smile on their dials from the laughs and good company.

JUNE 2017 29

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PFA

Government ditches plans to change PPL thanks to PFA lobbying

By Fiona Wade – Senior Adviser PFA A fair and equitable Paid Parental Leave (PPL) scheme is essential if employers are serious about supporting parents and encouraging greater female workforce participation within policing.

This is why the Police Federation of Australia (PFA) has been a strong supporter of the Paid Parental Leave Act 2010.

And now – after some political argy bargy – it appears that the government has abandoned plans for change to the PPL scheme.

Speaking to the ABC, Social Services Minister Christian Porter said that the policy change was off the table, and that it was disappointing that the Senate refused to pass the “fair and reasonable” changes.

"For the present, it doesn't seem like anyone is willing to countenance any form of savings in that system at all, so that leaves us with not a whole lot of room to manoeuvre," he said.

The PFA has advocated hard for the Bill to remain as it is.

The original passing of the Bill in 2010, established a government-funded PPL scheme providing 18 weeks’ leave paid at the minimum wage ($11,826) to new parents earning less than $150,000. This comes on top of any leave provided by their employers.

But, as is often the case, PPL became a political hot potato, especially after the then opposition leader Tony Abbott made one of his “captain picks” and proposed his own “Rolls Royce” scheme that would have given mothers six months’ leave at their current wage. Abbott billed the PPL as his defining moment in politics while critics slammed the proposed changes as simply being a cost to the country that it could not afford.

But as ever is the case with politics, there was a sharp about face when then Treasurer Joe Hockey accused mothers of “double dipping” and it was he who first put forward amendments aimed at stopping mothers claiming the government money on top of any arrangement made by their employer.

While these changes were unable to get through the Parliament, they were still part of the Coalitions election platform under Prime Minister Turnbull.

32 NT POLICE NEWS

A ministerial reshuffle in late 2015 landed Mr Porter in the social services portfolio, and while he quickly ditched the phrase "double-dipping" he embarked upon another attempt at winding back the PPL scheme.

His PPL plan was to prevent new parents accessing the full taxpayer entitlement if their employer also offered PPL, by offering to top up a person's leave to a maximum of 18 weeks.

That was later extended to 20 weeks under a compromise deal with the Senate crossbench; particularly the Nick Xenophon party. However, it still meant that it was an either or scheme – with families unable to access both the government and the employer schemes.

The amendments to the PPL were all neatly sewn up in a mega “omnibus” welfare Bill that included increases to childcare and cuts to family tax benefits; as thee government attempted to force nearly $4billion in savings through the Parliament before the 2017 May budget.

It was recognised by the PFA Executive and its Women’s Advisory Committee (WAC) that any reduction to the PPL Scheme would be detrimental to police officers and their families; therefore advocating for a fair PPL scheme became one of the PFA’s priorities.

The PFA’s principle argument rested on how crucial it was to our members to have access to the 18 weeks parental leave pay as determined by the Act, on top of the respective entitlements under the various state, territory and federal police enterprise bargaining agreements or award entitlements.

The PFA’s presence at numerous committee hearings on PPL is testament to our veracity in making sure that our members were heard.

In August 2015, the PFA made a submission to the Senate Inquiry for the Fairer Paid Parental Leave Amendment Bill

Left to right: Senior Constable Kelly Merlo, baby Alex and Sergeant Alex Griffiths

2015 and again in December 2016 to the Senate Inquiry for the Fairer Paid Parental Leave Bill 2016, urging the Committee not support the measures in the proposed Bill.

As a result of this last submission the PFA accepted an invitation to provide further evidence to the Legislation Committee at a public hearing on 1 February 2017 held in Melbourne. The PFA was represented at the hearing by CEO Mark Burgess and Victoria Police Association representatives, Sergeant Alex Griffith and Senior Constable Kelly Merlo and Assistant Manager Industrial Relations, Emma Rili. Alex and Kelly, both operational police officers and mothers of young children, provided strong and compelling firsthand accounts of how the PPL changes would negatively impact on theirs and their police colleagues lives.

In parallel with committee appearances and submissions, PFA staff also had meetings with members of the cross bench to prosecute the concerns of our members; and thanks must also go to PFA project officer Kath Potts who worked to put the PFA’s arguments to government.

And so finally, unable to find any compromise, the government has scrapped any proposed changes to the Bill.

For the PFA, who have monitored, argued and prosecuted for no change for many years, this is a welcomed result for our members.

Resignations and Retirements Resignations

Rank

Date

Browne, Allison Margot

Constable

17-Feb-17

Jeevanlal, Meha

Auxiliary

12-Feb-17

Scott, Emily Anne

Senior Constable

19-Feb-17

Muller, Neville Ian

Senior Constable 1st Class

01-Mar-17

Kilgour, Matthew Wayne

Senior Constable

18-Jan-17

Wicks, Stephen Leslie

Sergeant

10-Mar-17

Hayden, Edgar Maxwell Carroll

Senior Constable

08-Mar-17

Horscroft, Matthew Wade

Constable 1st Class

19-Mar-17

Campbell, Susan Norma

Senior Constable 1st Class

24-Mar-17

Sandor Alex Blogar

Senior Constable

30-Mar-17

Silvestri, Kim Lee

Senior Auxiliary

29-Mar-17

Zhang, Haiyan

Auxiliary

28-Mar-17

Bell, Jaquille Alan John

ACPO

14-Apr-17

Newson, Richard Joseph

Trainee Constable

15-May-17

Retirements

Rank

Date

Kasprzak, Helen

Senior Auxiliary

08-Feb-17

Pusterla, Andrew Peter

Superintendent

12-Apr-17

Rowe, Megan Hood

Superintendent

13-Apr-17

MARCH JUNE 2017 33

PFA continued

Queensland hosts The Police Federation Of Australia’s Women’s Advisory Committee Meeting On the evening of Thursday 23 March, The ladies (and a few supporting men!) watched as storm clouds rolled in; there were jokes about cyclones as some reps recalled the earthquake that coincided with the last PFA WAC meeting in Auckland in November last year.

The ladies introduced themselves and caught up on developments in one another’s jurisdictions. The Queensland representatives introduced their Regions and pinpointed the particular issues facing their colleagues. The ladies shared a meal and a delicious, welcoming ‘Queensland Cake’ with Bundy rum caramel sauce baked by QPU Workplace Health & Safety Officer Rosemary Featherstone. Queensland’s Women & Diversity Committee rep Sergeant Kerrie Haines then led the ladies on a tour of her Metro North Region.

In March representatives of police unions and associations of each Australian state and territory, the Australian Federal Police, and the Police Federation of Australia met in Brisbane for PFA WAC, the Federation’s women’s advisory committee.

The meeting was opened by Grace Grace MP, the Queensland Minister for Industrial Relations, Employment, Racing, and Multicultural Affairs. Grace Grace MP is an inspiring woman who talked of the benefits of being a part of a Government with two female leaders, and the first cabinet in Australia with a majority of female representatives.

She spoke of her experience as the first female General Secretary of the Queensland Council of Unions, and her amazement that there are still so many ‘firsts’ for women. Grace Grace MP was proud of her Government’s efforts to have 50/50 representation on government boards, and encouraged meeting attendees to get involved.

34 NT POLICE NEWS

Grace Grace MP offered three pieces of advice to the WAC delegates:

1) TAKE YOUR OPPORTUNITIES

She noted that many women are reluctant to take on an opportunity unless they are ‘150,000 percent sure’ they will succeed. She believes men do not suffer from this self-doubt, and benefit from it. She admitted to some uncertainty throughout her own career, yet encouraged women to ‘go for it’; she maintains that even if women are not successful in their endeavours, they will have learnt something.

2) ATTACK THE 80/20 RULE

She noted the rough ratio of 80:20 regarding many stereotypical roles for men and women. For example, women do roughly 80 percent of household chores, and make up roughly 20 percent of executive positions. She provided the extreme example of nurses being 95 percent female in a profession presided over by a board that is only comprised of 50 percent female executives.

She encouraged delegates to always question and fight against this ratio.

3) LEARN POLITICS

She did not refer to the politics of political parties, but rather the politics of numbers. She reminded delegates that if they face an interview board of five people, they must convince three people that they are the best person for the job. She believes women must learn to recognise when the timing is right, and when they have the numbers on their side to strive for a goal.

Grace Grace MP was inspiring, encouraging, and relatable with her responses and examples from her own experience. She noted that even as a Minister, she still regularly deals with discrimination; she admitted that just a few days beforehand she had experienced an older gentleman in a meeting tending to talk to the two men sitting on either side of her, rather than directly to her. One delegate asked how to respond to allegations of ‘jobs for the girls’ when women are promoted.

Grace Grace MP encouraged delegates to simply ignore such allegations, and ‘prove them wrong’.

Grace Grace MP was followed by the equally inspiring Commissioner Katarina Carroll of the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES), who ensured time to attend the meeting despite Cyclone Debbie gathering force in the north. Commissioner Carroll is well known to Queensland police officers because she was a Queensland police officer herself, rising to the rank of Assistant Commissioner, until she left for the firies in 2015.

Commissioner Carroll outlined the highlights of her career with the Police Service, which also involved a number of ‘firsts’. She outlined her drive, determination, and the sacrifices she and her family made to ensure she was able to seize opportunities and successfully progress through the organisation. She talked about moving around the state to benefit her career, about reluctantly accepting the opportunity to be the Program Executive of the G20 Group (‘I felt sick when I said yes’), and about curtailing a planned month-long holiday following the hugely successful G20 Summit in order to take up a position reviewing the culture of the QFES. Commissioner Carroll compared the QPS and the QFES, noting the importance of critical mass in the change of perception of female officers.

A critical mass of numbers is reached

at around 20-30 percent, which the QPS has achieved, but which the QFES certainly hasn’t. Commissioner Carroll also touched on the great barrier of work/life balance for women, and noted the obstacles to advancement that women face in reducing their work hours to have children just as their careers are about to take off.

In response to questions from delegates, Commissioner Carroll, too, was encouraging, accessible, and pragmatic.

She echoed Grace Grace MP’s sentiments to ignore allegations of tokenism and to get on with the job. She remembered an occasion when she was promoted, and male officers were promoted alongside her. The male officers complained to the interview panel of tokenism and were told there were Commissioner Carroll’s merits, then daylight (ie. a huge gap), and then the merits of her male colleagues.

So that was the end of that.

After the motivating words from both guests, the WAC meeting began with an overview of the PFA’s activities.

Two parliamentary submissions were discussed—in relation to the Fairer Paid Parental Leave Bill and Gender Segregation in the Workplace and its Impact on Women’s Economic Equality.

They also discussed the draft report on Flexible Working Arrangements for

Police in Australia and New Zealand, which has been prepared following a wide-reaching survey of all jurisdictions that was completed by 11,500 officers, or 16 percent of the combined forces. There are some interesting numbers coming out of the survey: for example, 1,050 men reported currently using flexible work arrangements, yet 4,750 hoped to be using flexible work arrangements in the next five years. The Committee looks forward to the finalisation of this report. The standing agenda item of childcare was also discussed, and it was noted that the focus of the issue needs to change. It ought not to be thought that women need childcare, but rather that organisations need childcare.

The representatives from each state and territory provided updates regarding women’s participation rates in the nation’s Unions and Associations, and initiatives that have been undertaken to encourage greater participation.

The delegates resolved to review the PFA WAC’s Mission Statement and to consider redefining some of their key objectives. It was discussed that although some Unions and Associations have female representation at the Executive level, others do not. The delegates believe the lack of such representation leaves those organisations with challenges in

presenting and championing the views of a significant section of their work force.

Still, the delegates recognised that some inroads have been made, and resolved to continue to work to support the women who have dedicated their lives to protecting and serving communities around Australia and New Zealand.

The final item on the agenda for the meeting was a debate devised to generate discussion. The debate questioned the wisdom of setting 50/50 recruitment targets for police officers, with Senior Constable Lauren Turgeon presenting points for 50/50 recruitment, and Sergeant Beth Hooper presenting points against. A lively discussion ensued and a vote was eventually cast, with 50/50 recruitment narrowly enjoying majority support of the delegates in attendance.

The meeting closed on this robust note.

The next PFA WAC meeting will be held in Canberra on 6 September, where this group of dedicated officers will again meet to discuss the support, achievements, and empowerment of female police officers.

The PFA WAC meeting was held in March. Our Association was represented by Executive members Lisa Bayliss and Kylie Proctor.

JUNE 2017 35

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When is a property settlement binding? Can I stop my former partner coming back for more?

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Victoria Bell, Senior Associate | Tindall Gask Bentley Lawyers

When a relationship breaks down there will inevitably be a discussion between the parties regarding the division of their assets and liabilities.

The conversation is often not easy but in many circumstances an agreement can be reached without the involvement of the Courts.

The question then becomes: how do I make the agreement binding so as to stop one party from “coming back for more” at a later date?

Many clients will ask us if it is sufficient for them to write down their agreement and have it witnessed by a Justice of the Peace. The simple answer is no. While such a document could be useful as a record of intention, it would not prevent either person making an application to the Family Law Courts for a property settlement at a later date. When they make that application, the Court could consider the agreement the parties have written themselves, but may still Order that one party pay a lump sum to, transfer their real estate interests to, or split their superannuation with, the other party. The Court can make other Orders to achieve a “just and equitable” division of the property assets and liabilities between the parties, taking in to account all of the relevant factors as set out under the Family Law Act. Unless an agreement has been “finalised” as outlined below, then a party to a marriage can make an application for property settlement at any time after separation, up until 12 months after a divorce order is made. In many cases parties see no urgency to apply for a divorce order (a divorce order does not divide property between parties – it declares that the parties are no longer married).

In the case of de facto partners, either party can make an application for property settlement at any time up until the expiration of two years after separation.

For both married and de facto couples the Court may grant an extension of time if one party applies for it and can satisfy the Court that there is a need for it.

Where an agreement is reached between husband and wife or de facto parties the agreement can only be made binding in two ways:

Court is not satisfied with the Orders, they will be returned to the parties to make the changes that the Court requires.

For this reason, and others, including the complexities associated with severing the financial ties between married and de facto couples, it is recommended parties do not try to draft the consent Minutes of Order themselves but seek the advice of a lawyer with experience in such matters. The lawyer preparing the documents cannot act for both parties. The other party can obtain their own independent legal advice, or may elect to be self-represented – there is no requirement for both parties to be represented for an Application for Consent Orders.

2. Binding Financial Agreement The law with respect to Binding Financial Agreements (BFA) is complex and the Court can overturn a BFA or declare it is not binding where requirements have not been met. The BFA is drawn by a lawyer representing one party and both parties must receive advice as to the effect of the agreement on them and have a lawyer sign a statement confirming they have given that advice and that the requirements of the Act have been met.

In some circumstances, even where the BFA has been properly prepared, there are opportunities for a party to apply to the Court for it to be overturned.

While in some circumstances a BFA is appropriate, in most cases it is recommended that Consent Orders are prepared as they provide parties with a strong sense of comfort, as the Court has approved those Orders at the time they were made.

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1. Consent Orders To have Consent Orders sealed by the Court, the parties must prepare an Application for Consent Orders in the approved form providing the Court with the necessary information to determine whether the suggested Orders are “just and equitable”. The Court Registrar will review the application and the Orders and if approved, the Registrar will date, sign and seal the Orders and return them to the parties/their lawyers. If the

36 NT POLICE NEWS

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member Update

NTPA Gift Shop • NTPA and NTPF Cufflinks • Stainless steel coffee mugs • Leather compendiums • NT & Shield shaped NTPF plaques, with custom engraving • Did you know that we can arrange mounting of medal replicas to wear at official functions?

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Letters of Resignation HI PAUL I would like to inform you that I have retired from the Northern Territory Police Force as of 31st March 2017 and I am therefore resigning my membership of the NT Police Association. Having completed nearly 41 years combined Police Service with over eight years in the NT, I would like to acknowledge the great assistance the NTPA has provided me in the past 12 months during what unfortunately has been a trying time for myself and my wife in relation to a number of workplace issue as a result of the injury I sustained over three years ago. It was due to the NTPA assistance and advice that we were finally able to resolve our issues and progress to retirement. I have worked with numerous great people in both NT and SA and I have found that all Police Officers are the same, striving to get a job done regardless of the, at times, lack of resources or personnel, but still getting results. I have seen many gains made for members as a result of good Police Associations, and the NTPA is no exception. Keep up the good work and thanks again for your assistance.

Regards Greg (Moose) Rowland

DEAR NTPA, EXECUTIVE, DELEGATES AND MEMBERS, After 31 years in the Northern Territory Police it is with both sadness and yet also some relief that I concluded my duty on 13 April 2017. When I joined in June of 1986, it was a very different Police Force and a very different Northern Territory. Many things have changed, some for the better, some not so much. What hasn’t changed is the support that the NTPA provides to its members. While I haven’t had to seek formal support over the years, I have had to reach out informally for help and this was given immediately to my great relief. Since becoming part of ‘management’, I have also seen the effort the Association and its delegates put in to help members in all sorts of circumstances - sometimes when they find themselves in difficult situations through no fault of their own. Support your Association - they support you and work hard to make sure you are treated fairly and receive the remuneration you all deserve. Farewell!!

Megan Rowe ex - Superintendent 1493 Katherine Division

HI PAUL Please accept this email as my resignation from the Northern Territory Police Association effective 17 May 2017.

After some 37 years of Policing I have called it a day and commenced leave leading into my official retirement. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the current and former members of the Associations Executive which have served and championed for its members in the time that I was a member. I have nothing be admiration for those who tirelessly serve the Association to the benefit of all.

I hope that all continues to go well and wish all the best for those who continue to serve the community now and into the future.

Yours faithfully Phil Duffield

38 NT POLICE NEWS

The NTPA with Police Health and the NT Police Force welcomes

DR KEVIN GILMARTIN PH.D. to Darwin on Wednesday 27 September.

Dr Gilmartin is the world’s leading authority and speaker on Police wellbeing and emotional survival, he has written a popular book, Emotional Survival for Law Enforcement.

Dr Gilmartin will be speaking in Darwin on 27 September on better emotional wellbeing of Police Officers, sharing his wealth of knowledge, advice and experience.

We invite our members and your families to attend - it’s FREE but we need you to book (via ntpa.com.au).

More event information will be available closer to the date.

Darwin on 27 September 2017.

Please visit ntpa.com.au or phone our office for more information 08 8995 9520.

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