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Current Australian Journal Abstracts
14 April 2008

This weekly current awareness service provides a list of citations and abstracts produced for the Australian Family & Society Abstracts (AF&SA) database. The database includes articles from Australian journals and articles by Australian authors in overseas journals.

Journal articles comprise 50 per cent of the database with books, papers in edited collections, conference papers, research reports and government and statistical publications, making up the other half. AF&SA database now contains more than 68,000 citations and abstracts and is publicly available on the Australian host of research databases Informit Online.

The journals listed are available in libraries, from the Institute's Information Centre via the interlibrary loan system, or directly from the publisher/distributor. Address information is included and direct links are provided to online articles.

Previous list

Adoption Australia

Adoptive Families Association of the ACT http://www.adoption.org.au/

Simmons, Leonie.
Stories about home. Part 2.
Adoption Australia Autumn 2008: 8-14

The author was born in Vietnam and adopted into an Australian family. In 2002, she returned to Vietnam in a search for identity if not family. In Part 1 of this article, which appeared in the Summer 2007 issue of the journal, she reflected on ideas about culture, identity, family and home, and the experience of being an outsider within the culture of her birth. In Part 2 she recounts the experience of finding her biological family: the emotional impact of meeting her mother and sisters, the sense of connection opposing the regret of not having shared life events with them, and the difficulty of integrating the new developments in her story into her constructed identity.

Australasian Journal on Ageing

Blackwell Synergy http://www.blackwell-synergy.com

Someya, Yoshiko; Wells, Yvonne. (Department of Sociology, Tokyo Women's Christian University, Suginami-ku, Tokyo, Japan (1); Australian Institute for Primary Care, La Trobe University, Bundoora Vic 3086 (2))
Current issues on ageing in Japan: a comparison with Australia.
Australasian Journal on Ageing v.27 no.1 Mar 2008: 8-13

Japan's demography has changed dramatically, and with it, Japanese society and the circumstances of older people. These changes include shifts in family roles and functions, employment and social relations. Traditionally, families provided financial, physical and psychological support to their parents in the same household. While the proportion of older Japanese who live with adult children is still high in comparison to the rate in Western developed countries, patterns of care in Japan are gradually shifting towards the Western model. Public pensions supply financial support and the Long Term Care Insurance System (LCIS) provides substantial physical care for frail older people. This paper focuses on current issues for older people in Japan, and provides a brief comparison with the situation in Australia. Japan's LCIS provides a simpler and more consistent basis for funding long term care than Australia's system. On the other hand, Australia's pension system is comparatively robust. (Journal abstract)

Howe, Anna L. (Consultant Gerontologist, Melbourne Vic)
Is bigger better when it comes to defining target populations for aged care programs?
Australasian Journal on Ageing v.27 no.1 Mar 2008: 14-19

The purpose of this study was to compare the Home and Community Care Program (HACC) target population defined on the basis of the ABS Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers (SDAC) with 2006 census data on need for assistance. The number of people with different levels of core activity limitation as defined in the SDAC was estimated for the 2006 population aged 65 and older and compared with the number reporting a need for assistance in the 2006 census. The results show that the two target populations differ in size, age and disability levels, but that the differences are reconciled when components within the total SDAC defined target population are taken into account. Assessment of different definitions of target populations in terms of validity in identifying program beneficiaries, accuracy in measurement and usefulness in monitoring program performance leads to the conclusion that the bigger SDAC defined population is better aligned with the goals of the HACC program. (Journal abstract, edited)

Temple, Jeromey B. (Australian Demographic and Social Research Institute, Australian National University, Canberra ACT 0200)
Correlates of housing affordability stress among older Australians.
Australasian Journal on Ageing v.27 no.1 Mar 2008: 20-25

The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence and correlates of housing affordability stress among community dwelling older Australians. The 2002 ABS General Social Survey was used to measure the prevalence of housing affordability stress. Rare event logistic regression was used to measure the potential correlates of housing affordability stress. The results showed that almost 5 per cent of Australians aged 55 years and older, and 20 per cent of those younger than 55 years, are estimated to experience housing affordability stress. Men and women living alone are more likely to experience affordability stress when compared to couples. Low income earners, those with a consumer debt or who do not hold assets, are at a heightened risk of such stress. Home ownership, regardless of income, is the strongest buffer against housing affordability problems in old age. The study concluded that although the prevalence of housing affordability stress is low among older Australians when compared to the younger population, a definite social gradient exists in those at risk. (Journal abstract, edited)

Krochalk, Pamela C; Li, Yawen; Chi, Iris. (Division of Health Sciences, California State University, US (1); School of Social Work, University of Southern California, US (2,3))
Widowhood and self-rated health among Chinese elders: the effect of economic condition.
Australasian Journal on Ageing v.27 no.1 Mar 2008: 26-32

The mediating effect of economic condition (income, work status, self rated financial situation and financial support) on widowhood and self rated health in elderly Chinese was examined in this study. The study sample consists of 17,556 married and widowed elders age 60 and older selected from the nationwide 2000 Sample Survey on Aged Population in Urban / Rural China. Path analysis is used to identify the direct and indirect relationships of economic condition between widowhood and self rated health. The results show that widowhood has a direct effect on self rated health for those widowed for more than 4 years. Work status and perceived financial situation mediate that relationship regardless of length of time widowed. Being older, male, less educated, and functionally healthy are associated with better self rated health among those widowed. The study concludes that work status and perceived financial situation have a more significant effect on widowhood and self rated health than income and financial support. The findings have cross cultural implications for developing elder care programs. (Journal abstract, edited)

Doney, Robyn M; Packer, Tanya L. (Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands WA (1); Centre for Research into Disability and Society, School of Occupational Therapy, Curtin University of Technology, GPO Box U1987, Perth WA 6001 (2))
Measuring changes in activity participation of older Australians: validation of the Activity Card Sort - Australia.
Australasian Journal on Ageing v.27 no.1 Mar 2008: 33-37

This study explored the psychometric properties of the Australian version of the Activity Card Sort (ACS Aus), a recently developed measure of activity participation for use with older adults. Concurrent, convergent construct, and discriminative construct validity were examined. The study included 93 Australian adults aged 60-95 years. Participants completed the ACS Aus, as well as an existing Australian measure of activity participation (the Adelaide Activities Profile) and an Australian measure of subjective well being (the Personal Well Being Index). The ACS Aus demonstrated moderate concurrent validity, moderate convergent construct validity and strong discriminative validity. The World Health Organization has recently promoted participation as an important component of the healthy ageing process. This study validates the use of the ACS Aus in measuring participation of community dwelling older adults in Australia. (Journal abstract, edited)

Smith, Joanna; Lewin, Gill. (Silver Chain Nursing Association, WA (1,2))
Home care clients' participation in fall prevention activities.
Australasian Journal on Ageing v.27 no.1 Mar 2008: 38-42

A mail survey of 4,743 home care clients from several home care agencies was undertaken to determine whether home care clients have accessed or been influenced by fall prevention programs. Of the 47.2 per cent of clients who completed the survey, 46 per cent had fallen within the last year. Faller and non fallers differed in attitude to falls and fall risk factors. Only 15 per cent of fallers and 7 per cent of non fallers had taken part in a fall prevention program and only 8 per cent knew how to access information about such activities. The study concluded that fall prevention strategies should be targeted at the home care population. Such programs should take into consideration the specific needs of this group. (Journal abstract, edited)

McConigley, Ruth; Toye, Christine; Goucke, Roger; Kristjanson, Linda J. (Western Australian Centre for Cancer and Palliative Care (1), ProVice Chancellor, Research and Development (4), Curtin University of Technology, GPO Box U1987, Perth WA 6001; School of Nursing, Midwifery and Postgraduate Medicine, Edith Cowan University, Western Australia (2); Department of Pain Management, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands WA (3))
Developing recommendations for implementing the Australian Pain Society's pain management strategies in residential aged care.
Australasian Journal on Ageing v.27 no.1 Mar 2008: 45-49

This qualitative study aimed to develop recommendations and a related implementation resource 'toolkit' to facilitate implementation of pain management strategies in Australian Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs). It used written materials, focus groups and individual interviews to gather data from participants. 34 health care professionals with experience in the aged care sector were recruited from five Western Australian RACFs. General practitioners who had an interest in aged care were contacted via local general practice networks. Findings indicated that focused education sessions were needed to support implementation. A tailored toolkit was developed to assist the process. Funding and workforce constraints were found to be threats to complete implementation in some facilities. The study concluded that a multifaceted approach is needed to promote the implementation of pain management strategies in RACFs. In particular, unlicensed care workers, who may have responsibility for recognising and reporting signs of pain, require further education to support their role in the pain management process. (Journal abstract, edited)

Australian Economic Review

Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, Level 6, Economics and Commerce Building, University of Melbourne, Vic 3010. Internet http://www.melbourneinstitute.com

Tseng, Yi-Ping; Vu, Ha; Wilkins, Roger. (Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, University of Melbourne Vic 3010 (1,2,3))
Dynamic properties of income support receipt in Australia.
Australian Economic Review v.41 no.1 Mar 2008: 32-55

Using administrative records on Australian income support (welfare) recipients over the period July 1995 to June 2002, the authors examine dynamic properties of income support receipt and the personal characteristics associated with alternative patterns of receipt. The authors draw on three concepts: churning-the process of ending a spell on income support and subsequently commencing a new spell; transferring-moving from one payment type to another within a spell on income support; and Total Time On payments - the proportion of time on income support in a given period. They find that churning and transferring are significant features of income support receipt in Australia. For example, over half of recipients churn within five years of commencing an income support spell, and one-fifth make a payment transfer within the same time frame. Examination of the characteristics associated with each of five distinct patterns of receipt reveals substantial differences in patterns by age, family composition, unemployment status, health status, and recent history of income support receipt. (Journal abstract)

Goode, Alison; Mavromaras, Kostas. (Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, University of Melbourne Vic 3010 (1,2); Institut zur Zukunft der Arbeit, Germany (2))
Obesity as a multidisciplinary research topic: editors' introduction to Policy forum: a multidisciplinary view of obesity.
Australian Economic Review v.41 no.1 Mar 2008: 67-71

This paper provides an overview of the papers in a special policy forum on 'A multidisciplinary view of obesity'. Obesity and overweight, and their associated diseases, are on the rise in westernised nations, despite widespread community information on the dangers. Clearly, a multidisciplinary approach is needed in obesity prevention. The articles in this policy forum all highlight the role of everyday lifestyle and circumstances on obesity, including economics, choice and access.

Douglas, Flora; Greener, Joe; van Teijlingen, Edwin. (Department of Public Health, University of Aberdeen, Scotland (1,2,3))
'Ask me why I'm fat!' The need to engage with potential recipients of health promotion policy to prevent obesity.
Australian Economic Review v.41 no.1 Mar 2008: 72-77

This article presents the findings of a qualitative study with 34 overweight adults in the United Kingdom, concerning their opinions, beliefs, and experiences on the causes of weight problems and the barriers and enablers to weight loss. The participants regarded laziness, gluttony, genetics, upbringing, and life events as the main causes of weight problems. A wide range of factors were seen as barriers to weight loss, notably poor access to services or opportunities and the higher prices of healthy foods. The study highlights the role of consumer perceptions when developing health interventions, and is from a broader research project, PROGRESS (Prevent Obesity Growing Economic Synthesis Study).

Mavromaras, Kostas. (Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, University of Melbourne Vic 3010 and Institut zur Zukunft der Arbeit, Germany)
Economics and obesity.
Australian Economic Review v.41 no.1 Mar 2008: 78-84

This article examines obesity behaviour in terms of the economic principles of constrained choices, limited resources, trade-offs, values, and decision making. For example, a well informed person may choose unhealthy foods because they taste good, or a person may choose take away food in order to spend more time with the family. This economic model of behaviour is then compared with medical and public health models, and considers areas of future research.

Moodie, Rob. (Nossal Institute for Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic 3010)
Fat is good for business.
Australian Economic Review v.41 no.1 Mar 2008: 85-89

We live in an obesity-promoting world, with more opportunities to consume energy but less to expend it. Fast food and energy dense food companies spend (and earn) billions of dollars, as do industries promoting sedentary behaviours, such as cars and video games. In the face of these strong market forces for over-consumption and under-activity, this paper calls for equally strong interventions to combat the rise in obesity. Market forces have failed to balance long-term and short-term preferences, of healthy weight versus convenience, so the author recommends tight regulations on advertising to children, access to junk foods, food labelling, and food pricing, and policies for promoting student and workforce behaviour change.

Burns, Cate. (School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood Vic 3125)
The vulnerable and the disadvantaged.
Australian Economic Review v.41 no.1 Mar 2008: 90-96

We live in an environment that promotes behaviours that cause obesity. However, people with low incomes or in disadvantaged areas suffer higher rates of obesity, with the related diseases and associated costs. Several hypotheses have been proposed to account for this trend. This article examines the evidence for six of these theories, which include access to affordable, healthy food; cost effectiveness of cheap, energy dense foods; physiological changes caused by stress; food knowledge and skills; and differing values related to food and physical exercise. The author refers to Australian and international studies and research on consumption, diet, costs, and social class, and also considers the role of each hypothesis for obesity prevention.

Avenell, Alison; Goode, Alison. (Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Scotland (1); Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, University of Melbourne Vic 3010 (2))
Assessing the evidence base for interventions to prevent the further increase in obesity.
Australian Economic Review v.41 no.1 Mar 2008: 97-104

This article reviews the clinical and public health evidence base available for obesity prevention. It discusses standards of good evidence for public health interventions, data collection, data types, the possible use of survey data and linked data. A major concern has been the lack of health data included in population surveys, but current panel surveys in Australia and overseas have begun including health related questions. Tackling the obesity epidemic requires a multidisciplinary approach, and multidisciplinary evidence that links clinical, social, economic, behavioural, and cultural research.

Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH)

Auseinet http://auseinet.flinders.edu.au

Houghton, Sue. (Social Worker, Older Persons Mental Health Community Team, Calvary Hospital, Bruce ACT 2614)
Exploring hope: its meaning for adults living with depression and for social work practice.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.6 no.3 Nov 2007: 8p, Online only (PDF 64K)
http://www.auseinet.com/journal/vol6iss3/houghton.pdf

Mental health consumers are increasingly challenging deficit focussed constructions of mental illness, which conceptualise depression as a psychopathology with associated connotations of abnormality and disease. The emergence of the recovery paradigm facilitates the possibility, indeed hope, of recovery from serious mental illness. Social work has much to offer this shifting mental health context, drawing as it does on holistic understandings of individuals and on perspectives such as strengths, resilience and empowerment. This changing practice environment supports the need to examine individual consumer experiences of depression and recovery in order to better inform the helping relationship. This paper informs this area of practice by exploring meanings and constructions of hope from the perspective of mental health consumers with depression. The research suggests that by incorporating hopefulness into interactions between mental health consumers and clinicians, there is the potential to enhance both the wellbeing of the consumer and the quality of the consumer/clinician relationship. (Journal abstract, edited)

Gerrits, Rob S; van der Zanden, Rianne A P; Visscher, Renske F M; Conijn, Barbara P. (Regional Institute for Mental Health Care RIAGGZ over de Ijssel, P.O. Box 390, 7400 AJ Deventer, the Netherlands (1); Trimbos Institute (The Netherlands Institute for Mental Health and Addiction), PO Box 725, 3500 AS Utrecht, the Netherlands (2,4); Altrecht Mental Health Center (Altrecht Prevention), Utrecht, the Netherlands (3))
Master your mood online: a preventive chat group intervention for adolescents.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.6 no.3 Nov 2007: 11p, tables, figures, Online only (PDF 160K)
http://www.auseinet.com/journal/vol6iss3/gerrits.pdf

The paper aims to describe the opportunities and the challenges of conducting an online prevention intervention for adolescents with depressive complaints. A literature search on e-mental health interventions for depression is outlined. A pilot study was conducted on an online group course for adolescents conducted in a closed chat room, utilising the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy. The intervention was led by mental health professionals and developed by the prevention units from three mental health care organisations in the Netherlands. Results show that with this type of intervention it is possible to reach the target group and that after participating, the adolescents show a reduction of their depressive complaints as measured with the Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Monitoring figures are presented, and the authors' view of the future for 'Master your mood online' is considered in closing. (Journal abstract, edited)

Nguyen, Toan; Gow, Kathryn; Hicks, Richard E. (School of Social Sciences, Bond University, Gold Coast Qld (1,3); Adjunct Professor, School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Beams Road, Carseldine Qld 4034 (2))
Employment status, attributional style and psychological well-being: a study of Vietnamese employed and unemployed in Queensland.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.6 no.3 Nov 2007: 9p, tables, Online only (PDF 122K)
http://www.auseinet.com/journal/vol6iss3/nguyen.pdf

The aim of this community-based explorative research study was to examine the psychological impact of employment status, locus of control and attribution stability in the Vietnamese community in a Queensland sample of 117 people. Results indicated that employment status and locus of control made significant contributions to the hypothesised prediction of depression, stress, anxiety and somatisation. The clinical implication from the current research is that in the Asian community studied, individuals who encounter an adverse situation such as unemployment, and internally attribute that adverse experience to themselves, have a higher risk of developing mental disorders. The authors suggest that practitioners working in the field may find this information useful in their consultations with the 'at-risk' community.

Petchkovsky, Leon; Cord-Udy, Nigel; Grant, Laurencia. (Associate Professor Psychiatry, University of Queensland, Brisbane Qld (1); Visiting Consultant Psychiatrist, Mark Sheldon Remote Mental Health Team, Alice Springs, NT (2); Life Promotion Program, Mental Health Association of Central Australia, Alice Springs NT (3))
A post-Jungian perspective on 55 indigenous suicides in Central Australia: deadly cycles of diminished resilience, impaired nurturance, compromised interiority; and possibilities for repair.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.6 no.3 Nov 2007: 14p, tables, figures, Online only (PDF 129K)
http://www. auseinet.com/journal/vol6iss3/petchovsky.pdf

The paper outlines a response to high and increased Indigenous suicide rates in Central Australia (from 2001 to 2006 they were almost ten times as high as European ones). The authors conducted an opportunistic qualitative study, investigating hospital records, opinions of colleagues, interviews with survivors, and coroners' and psychiatric reports, in an attempt to find the reasons and ways of reducing what they describe as an epidemic. Basic data patterns were similar to those in other Indigenous suicide studies, reflecting dire overall levels of chronic stress, and indicating an undermining of resilience. They discuss and hypothesise about psychological and behavioural effects and consequences (eg depression, anxiety, substance abuse, violence, suicide, and impaired capacities for nurturance) of such chronic deprivation and stress, and reflect on how to extend a model of therapeutic nurturance from psychotherapy to psychiatric and forensic service organisations. A 'Kanyini/nurturance' project of repair is outlined.

Hardaker, Laura; Halcomb, Elizabeth J; Griffiths, Rhonda; Bolzan, Natalie; Arblaster, Karen. (Sydney South West Centre for Applied Nursing Research, University of Western Sydney, Locked Bag 7103, Liverpool BC, NSW 1871 (1,2,3); School of Social Sciences, University of Western Sydney, Bankstown NSW (4); Sydney West Area Health Service, Nepean Hospital, Penrith NSW (5))
The role of the occupational therapist in adolescent mental health: a critical review of the literature.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.6 no.3 Nov 2007: 10p, tables, Online only (PDF 91K)
http://www.auseinet.com/journal/vol6iss3/hardaker.pdf

There are substantial bodies of literature focusing on mental health and the mental health of young people. There is also a growing body of knowledge relating to the professional role of the occupational therapists in mental health. However, there is a marked gap that brings these areas together. Adolescence is a time of heightened stress, with as many as one in four young people experiencing a mental health problem; appropriate care is required to reduce the impact of mental illness on their transition into adulthood and subsequent adult life. Whilst the effectiveness of the multidisciplinary team in providing interventions has been well demonstrated in this client group, the roles and impact of the individual health professionals are less well understood. A review of the literature was conducted to better understand the current and potential role for occupational therapists working with young people with mental health issues. (Journal abstract)

Woodhouse, Annette. (Department of Rural and Indigenous Health, School of Rural Health, Monash University, PO Box 973, Moe Vic 3825)
The role of the family therapist and health professional in mental health promotion and youth suicide prevention.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.6 no.3 Nov 2007: 8p, Online only (PDF 74K)
http://www.auseinet.com/journal/vol6iss3/woodhouse.pdf

Youth suicide is complex and concerns all who work with families, including family therapists and health professionals. Having worked within a child, adolescent and family mental health service as a family therapist, psychiatric nurse and Mental Health Promotion Officer in Gippsland, Victoria, the author reflects upon and integrates each of these approaches into a whole population health approach to youth suicide prevention. These views are presented in three parts, beginning with an overview of yout suicide, depression and the current suicide prevention strategy. Then, the role and effectiveness of family therapy in working with these issues is presented. Finally, integration of mental health promotion with family therapy is reviewed. The challenges and opportunities for family therapists and other health professionals in striving to achieve integration in mental health promotion and youth suicide prevention are discussed. Practice examples from the author's rural region are included to demonstrate the fit of this approach with current youth suicide prevention strategies and research.

McGrath, Pam; Bouwman, Michael; Kalyanasundaram, Vaidyanathan. (International Program of Psycho-Social Health Research (IPP-SHR), Central Queensland University, Kenmore Qld (1,2); Department of Psychiatry, University of Queensland, and Bayside Health Services District, Redland Hospital, Cleveland, Qld (3))
'A very individual thing': findings on drug therapy in psychiatry from the perspective of Australian consumers.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.6 no.3 Nov 2007: 11p, tables, Online only (PDF 97K)
http://www.auseinet.com/journal/vol6iss3/mcgrath.pdf

Ten participants were interviewed as to their experiences which led to their recovery from mental illness. A variety of both positive and negative experiences relating to the use and misuse of drug therapy reported by these consumers highlights the much personalised nature of recovery. The findings highlight many negative aspects of the drug imperative within the Australian psychiatric system, a system described as disempowering, offering scant therapeutic choices and not respecting individual difference. The findings contrast the use of drug therapy as a means of 'risk management' with a consumer oriented self-driven recovery model. To explore therapeutic strategies other than drug treatments, the consumer needs to be highly motivated, mindful of the family consequences, and have the trust and support of a sympathetic psychiatrist. (Journal abstract, edited)

Parham, Jennie. (Director, Australian Network for Promotion, Prevention and Early Intervention for Mental Health, c/- Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide SA 5001)
Keeping promotion and prevention on the agenda in mental health: issues and challenges.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.7 no.1 Mar 2008: 5p, Online (PDF 55KB)
http://www.auseinet.com/journal/vol7iss1/parhameditorial.pdf

In light of a recent change in government, this guest editorial calls for a repositioning of mental health promotion and illness prevention in Australia. Australia was previously a world leader in promotion and prevention policy and programs, but the focus then changed to investment in early intervention and treatment services. While supporting these services, the author highlights the important role of mental health promotion, including national coordination and a whole of government approach, and outlines workforce issues, research needs, and investment.

Littlefield, Lyn. (Professor and Executive Director, Australian Psychological Society, PO Box 38, Flinders Lane PO, Melbourne Vic 8009)
Towards a comprehensive national early intervention program for children with mental health problems.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.7 no.1 Mar 2008: 5p, Online (PDF 57KB)
http://www.auseinet.com/journal/vol7iss1/littlefieldeditorial.pdf

This guest editorial draws attention to the high prevalence of mental health problems among children and adolescents in Australia, and introduces KidsMatter, an early intervention and identification initiative that could assist. KidsMatter is based on the 'Exploring Together Program', which was developed in 1986 for primary school-aged children with early signs of mental health problems. That model has subsequently been adapted for other target groups, including preschool children, parents, and Indigenous children, and the evaluations have found these programs to be effective. KidsMatter aims to strengthen protective factors and identify risk factors in the primary school setting, and is a government and private collaborative initiative. The author describes the framework and components of KidsMatter, and the forthcoming trial and evaluation.

Reid, Kate; Littlefield, Lyn; Hammond, Sabine W. (Psychologist, PO Box 352, Euroa Vic 3666 (1); Professor and Executive Director, Australian Psychological Society, PO Box 38, Flinders Lane PO, Melbourne Vic 8009 (2); School of Psychology, Australian Catholic University, Locked Bag 4115, Fitzroy VIC 3065 (3))
Early intervention for preschoolers with behaviour problems: preliminary findings for the Exploring Together Preschool Program.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.7 no.1 Mar 2008: 15p, Online (PDF 139KB)
http://www.auseinet.com/journal/vol7iss1/reid.pdf

There is increasing recognition of the need for early intervention into behavioural problems in preschool aged children (3-6 years) to prevent long-term adverse outcomes. This paper reports on the 'Exploring Together Preschool Program' (ETPP), an innovative, developmental theory based, early intervention program, aimed at preschoolers referred with behaviour problems who are at risk of developing ongoing mental health problems. ETPP is a multifaceted group program comprising parent behaviour management training, parent-child interaction therapy, and children's social problem-solving training. Seven groups comprising 37 preschoolers and one of their parents referred from clinical and community settings participated in the 10-week program. Results indicate that children's behaviour problems reduced clinically and significantly from pre- to post-program whilst social skills improved significantly. Parenting practices and parents' satisfaction with their role also improved significantly. Improvements were mostly maintained at 6-month follow-up. Developmental theory suggests that these changes will help prevent behaviour problems from developing into long-term, enduring mental health problems. The study provides preliminary evidence that ETPP is a theoretically and developmentally sound, comprehensive intervention for Australian families with preschool aged children who show early signs of mental health problems. (Journal abstract)

Soltys, Michelle; Littlefield, Lyn. (Psychologist, Exploring Together Program, 607 Lygon Street, North Carlton Vic 3054 (1); Professor and Executive Director, Australian Psychological Society, PO Box 38, Flinders Lane PO, Melbourne Vic 8009 (2))
Evaluation of Parents and Adolescents Communicating Together (PACT): a conflict resolution program.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.7 no.1 Mar 2008: 11p, Online (PDF 87KB)
http://www.auseinet.com/journal/vol7iss1/soltys.pdf

This study was designed to evaluate 'Parents and Adolescents Communicating Together' (PACT), a program based on the skills of the 'Wise Ways to Win' conflict resolution model (CRM). Mothers and adolescents participated in this program to enhance their communication skills and to develop effective conflict resolution skills. Multivariate analyses were used to examine whether mothers' and adolescents' understanding of the specific skills of the CRM improved following participation in the program. Results indicated that the program was successful in increasing mothers' and adolescents' abilities to resolve conflict with the aim of finding win-win solutions to problems. Changes in mother-adolescent conflict levels and improvements in communication skills were small, although the participants reported low levels of conflict in the mother-adolescent relationship and reasonable communication skills prior to participation in the program. The Wise Ways to Win conflict resolution model appears to be a theoretically sound model for teaching mothers and adolescents effective conflict resolution skills with the aim of creating win-win solutions to problems. (Journal abstract)

Trinder, Margot; Soltys, Michelle; Burke, Susie. (Exploring Together Program, 607 Lygon Street, North Carlton Vic 3054 (1,2,3))
A preliminary evaluation of the Confident Kids Program: a stand alone component of the Exploring Together Program.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.7 no.1 Mar 2008: 10p, Online (PDF 103KB)
http://www.auseinet.com/journal/vol7iss1/trinder.pdf

This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the 'Confident Kids Program', as a separate component of the multi-group 'Exploring Together Program' (ETP). Confident Kids aims to reduce children's behavioural and emotional difficulties through a group program for primary school children that meets once weekly for 10 weeks. This report presents an analysis of pre-post data collected from 39 parents whose children attended the Confident Kids programs and 48 teachers in the state of Victoria. Following the program, significant improvements were noted in parent reports of children's internalising and externalising difficulties, levels of parenting satisfaction and parenting styles. Teachers also reported a significant improvement in children's internalising behaviour from pre- to post-program. The benefits of offering both multi-group and single component interventions in school and community settings are also discussed. (Journal abstract)

Burke, Susie; Soltys, Michelle; Trinder, Margot. (Exploring Together Program, 607 Lygon Street, North Carlton Vic 3054 (1,2,3))
A preliminary evaluation of the Together Parenting Program: a stand alone component of the Exploring Together Program.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.7 no.1 Mar 2008: 10p, Online (PDF 100KB)
http://www.auseinet.com/journal/vol7iss1/burke.pdf

This preliminary study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the 'Together Parenting Program', a new component of the 'Exploring Together Program' (ETP). Together Parenting is a parent management training program for parents who want to enhance their relationship with their child(ren) and learn more effective parenting strategies for managing children's emotional and behavioural problems. This report presents an analysis of pre-post data collected from 44 parents who participated in the 10-week Together Parenting Programs. The study provided some preliminary evidence to suggest that the Together Parenting component of ETP assists parents to reduce their children's emotional and behavioural difficulties, while improving parenting practices and parental satisfaction. (Journal abstract)

Robinson, Gary; Tyler, William. (School for Social and Policy Research, Institute of Advanced Studies, Charles Darwin University, Darwin NT 0909 (1,2))
Ngaripirliga'ajirri: the implementation of Exploring Together on the Tiwi Islands.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.7 no.1 Mar 2008: 11p, Online (PDF 130KB)
http://www.auseinet.com/journal/vol7iss1/robinson.pdf

From 1999 to 2003, the Tiwi Health Board, in partnership with University researchers, undertook the implementation of the 'Exploring Together Program' as part of a preventive strategy in response to serious social problems affecting young Tiwi people, their parents and families. The implementation of the program necessitated engagement of Tiwi communities in ways that were responsive to issues such as the local context, culture, and patterns of family life, and at the same time maintained a commitment to the core elements of the intervention as a structured intervention requiring relatively advanced professional skills to achieve consistent high standards of delivery. The delivery team included both Tiwi community members and non-Tiwi personnel. They redeveloped a number of areas of content of the program to ensure adequate recognition of important themes in Tiwi parenting and family life while retaining the key elements of structure and content. The adapted program - Ngaripirliga'ajirri - showed many highly promising outcomes and, within the limits of the research design, indicated that a structured early intervention program can be effective in remote Indigenous contexts. (Journal abstract)

Australian Family Physician

Royal Australian College of General Practitioners http://www.racgp.org.au

Bird, Sara. (Medicolegal Claims Manager, MDA National)
End of life decisions and the law.
Australian Family Physician v.37 no.3 Mar 2008: 155-156

In 2004, a 75 year old man was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of a New South Wales hospital following a cardiac arrest. The opinion of two neurologists was that he had suffered severe brain damage from which there was no realistic possibility of meaningful recovery. His family did not agree to the withdrawal of treatment, and made an application to the Supreme Court of New South Wales to restrain the ICU staff from altering his treatment. The parens patriae jurisdiction allows courts to oversee the care and treatment of children and incompetent adults. Under this jurisdiction the Court decided that the man's continued treatment could not be justified. This article discusses the law and end of life decision making in the context of competent and incompetent adult patients. It defines competent and incompetent adult patients and considers: the distinction between euthanasia, assisted suicide and lawful treatment decisions; the use of analgesia and sedation; and, whether No Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation ('No CPR') orders are lawful.

Martin, Carmel M; Peterson, Chris. (Associate Professor of Family Medicine, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Ottawa, Canada (1); Honorary Research Fellow, School of Social Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora Vic 3086 (2))
Improving chronic illness care: revisiting the role of care planning.
Australian Family Physician v.37 no.3 Mar 2008: 161-164

Chronic illness is increasingly being recognised as a widespread, debilitating and costly burden. Most models of care used in the acute care setting are inappropriate for chronic illness and are costly. This article examines the goals of chronic illness care in the Australian general practice context and related issues from a conceptual perspective. It describes developments in care planning in Australia, particularly Medicare payments for care planning, and discusses how such developments can assist general practitioners in patient care. A case study of an Aboriginal patient with chronic illness is described to illustrate the issues. The article argues that care planning management based on a partnership model can bring about some success in management, even with the most difficult cases. Illness support, management of rest of life conditions and treatment and self management of disease are required. Care planning management items, as part of the Enhanced Primary Care program, provide incentive payments to address key models of improving complex chronic care. This can result in improved system organisation and self management of chronic illness. (Journal abstract, edited)

Atkin, Nancy. (Executive Officer, Medical Association for Prevention of War, Victoria)
Getting the message across: professional interpreters in general practice.
Australian Family Physician v.37 no.3 Mar 2008: 174-176

Evidence and quality standards support the use of professional interpreters and discourage the use of family interpreters in medical consultations. The Northern Division of General Practice documented the use of professional and family interpreters in local general practices, together with barriers and possible facilitators in the use of professional interpreters. Two complementary surveys were conducted in September 2006: practices were surveyed through a brief phone interview; and a written questionnaire with multiple choice and Likert scale questions was distributed to general practitioners attending division training sessions during the same period. Over two thirds of practices reported never using the free Doctors Priority Line phone interpreting service. Family members were frequently used as interpreters, with most GPs preferring to use family rather than professional interpreters. Over a third of practices were unaware of the Doctors Priority Line. Findings suggested that relevant standards are commonly not understood or implemented. (Journal abstract, edited)

Reath, Jennifer; Carey, Marion. (GP Manager, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Unit, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 1 Palmerston Crescent, South Melbourne Vic 3205 (1); Senior Medical Advisor, Public Health Branch, Department of Human Services, GPO Box 4057, Melbourne Vic 3001 (2))
Breast and cervical cancer in Indigenous women: overcoming barriers to early detection.
Australian Family Physician v.37 no.3 Mar 2008: 178-182

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have a higher incidence of cervical cancer and poorer outcomes for breast and cervical cancer than non Indigenous women. This article reports on a project that aimed to implement and evaluate strategies to improve general practitioner early detection of breast and cervical cancer in this group. In three sites a female Indigenous worker and female GP developed and implemented local plans aimed to improve service coordination and access, GP knowledge, recall systems, and health promotion. Evaluation included analysis of qualitative and quantitative data from project reports and surveys. Project officers and partners identified collaboration between service providers, community participation in planning and delivery, an Indigenous health worker raising awareness in both the women and GPs, and a female GP providing a holistic service as important factors in project success. Increased cervical screening was documented in one site and a trend toward increased breast and cervical screening in another. The article concludes that partnerships involving community members planning and implementing evidence based strategies may improve participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in breast and cervical cancer screening. (Journal abstract, edited)

Australian Journal of Early Childhood

Early Childhood Australia Inc http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au

Klopper, Christopher; Dachs, Nell. (School of Teacher Education, Charles Sturt University, Panorama Avenue, Bathurst NSW 2795 (1))
Meeting the goals of Te Whariki through music in the eraly childhood curriculum.
Australian Journal of Early Childhood v.33 no.1 Mar 2008: 1-8

The purpose of this article is to examine the strands and goals which arise from the four principles of 'empowerment, holistic development, family and community and relationships' (Te Whariki, 1996) and to propose how music can be used in an integral way not only to meet the stated goals but also to promote them to their fullest potential. It also presents a challenge to early childhood educators to consider making greater intentional use of music appropriately and relevantly throughout their programs and their day-to-day activities. There is often the tendency to limit music to mat time or to sporadic rhythmic clapping or singing throughout the day without a conscious understanding of how these activities link to the strands and goals of Te Whariki. (Journal abstract)

Vuckovic, Aleksandra. (RMIT University, GPO Box 2476V, Melbourne Vic 3001)
Making the multicultural learning environment flourish: the importance of the child-teacher relationship in educating young children about diversity.
Australian Journal of Early Childhood v.33 no.1 Mar 2008: 9-16

In Australia multiculturalism and diversity are part of daily experience. In such a society, children grow up with diverse norms, traditions and role models and are expected to become open-minded and tolerant individuals. A key figure in children's lives will often be the teacher, one of the first significant role models they interact with outside the family. The special character of these dyadic relationships and the challenges faced by the teacher have not been emphasised sufficiently in the literature. Successfully catering for a multicultural group of young children requires reflection and understanding of one's own culture, as well as a sound knowledge of the children and their culture. This paper reviews the various factors teachers need to be mindful of when educating young children, and concludes by presenting a model illustrating how relationships work in the early childhood education setting. (Journal abstract)

Goodfellow, Joy. (Macquarie University NSW 2109)
Presence as a dimension of early childhood professional practice.
Australian Journal of Early Childhood v.33 no.1 Mar 2008: 17-22

This article explores the phenomenon of presence and argues that it is a concept worthy of further investigation as a characteristic of adult-child interaction and a key component of quality care. Presence is situated within caring relationships and has a strong affective component that encompasses the heart and soul of professional practice. While cognitive (knowing) and social (engaging with) aspects of early childhood professional practice are important, presence has the potential to significantly impact on children's early emotional wellbeing. A suggested approach to furthering an appreciation of caring presence is to use digital video analysis software as a research tool in practitioner inquiry. (Journal abstract)

Kilgallon, Pam; Maloney, Carmel; Lock, Graeme. (Edith Cowan University, 2 Bradford Street, Mt Lawley 6050 (1,2,3))
Early childhood teachers coping with educational change.
Australian Journal of Early Childhood v.33 no.1 Mar 2008: 23-29

This paper describes a study of early childhood teachers' (educators of children aged four to eight years in school settings) perceptions of key factors which impact on their ability to cope with the implementation of mandated educational change in the workplace. Using qualitative methodology including surveys, focus groups and in-depth interviews, this study revealed that early childhood teachers' attitudes and approaches to change impacted on their active engagement and continuance in their profession, as did the support they received from work colleagues and line managers. In addition, access to information and professional development sessions, as well as involvement in and ownership of the change process, further contributed to how they coped during implementation of educational change. (Journal abstract)

Zevenbergen, Robyn; Logan, Helen. (Griffith University Gold Coast Campus, Parklands Drive, Southport Qld 4215 (1); Murray School of Education, Charles Sturt University, Thurgoona Campus, PO Box 789, Albury NSW 2640 (1))
Computer use by preschool children: rethinking practice as digital natives come to preschool.
Australian Journal of Early Childhood v.33 no.1 Mar 2008: 37-44 and Online
http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/australian_journal_of_early_ childhood/ajec_index_abstracts/computer_use_by_preschool_children.html

This paper reports on the outcomes of a survey implemented in a large regional community of Australia. The survey was completed by parents of children aged four - five years and attending local early childhood centres. The survey identified the types of access and use of computers by preschool children. It was found that the children of the respondents had significant access to computers in the home and were skilled in many facets of computer use. Computers were used for a range of activities, some educational and others recreational. Gender differences in computer use were also noted. The study highlights the changing clientele of early childhood settings and the implications for practice in a field where computer technology is often seen as the antithesis of good practice. (Journal abstract)

Humphrey, Gary; Crisp, Beth R. (School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University (Waterfront Campus), 1 Gheringhap Street, Geelong Vic 3217 (1,2))
Bullying affects us too: parental responses to bullying at kindergarten.
Australian Journal of Early Childhood v.33 no.1 Mar 2008: 45-49

Preschool age children are often thought of as too young to be able to engage in bullying behaviours. However, when it does occur, there are ramifications not only for the child but also for parents and siblings. This paper explores this issue by reporting on an exploratory study involving interviews with four parents whose child had experienced bullying in a Victorian kindergarten. Parents reported a range of responses, including anger, guilt for not protecting their child, and powerlessness in the face of denial from kindergarten staff that their child had been bullied. Being unable to access information about bullying among preschool children which might validate their experiences, reinforced the sense of isolation these parents experienced. Further research which explores the needs of family members of children bullied in the kindergarten (prior to school) setting is needed. (Journal abstract)

Sims, Margaret; Saggers, Sherry; Hutchins, Teresa; Guilfoyle, Andrew; Targowska, Anna; Jackiewicz, Stephanie. (Edith Cowan University, Joondalup Drive, Joondalup WA 6027 (1,2,3,4,5,6))
Indigenous child care: leading the way.
Australian Journal of Early Childhood v.33 no.1 Mar 2008: 56-60 and Online
http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/australian_journal_of_early _childhood/ajec_index_abstracts/indigenous_child_care_leading_the_way.h tml

The authors believe that the Australian early childhood sector is not performing well. The incidence of poor outcomes for children is increasing, and the authors believe that current service delivery is not capable of addressing this. They argue that, as a sector, there is an abundance of evidence of the kinds of programs and initiatives that could address national concerns, and review some of that evidence. They also point out that there is considerable knowledge in Australia, based on Australian programmes and experience, that can be used to build a different early childhood sector with the potential to significantly impact on growing disadvantage. The authors conclude with the principles or themes around which such initiatives should be developed and a call to advocate for the development of such services. Appropriate services supporting all young children, their families and their communities, have the potential to make a huge impact on society, and the sector can no longer hide from their responsibilities and avoid providing such services. (Journal abstract)

* Australian Journal of Public Administration

Institute of Public Administration Australia http://www.ipaa.org.au/ Subscription: Blackwell Publishers

Harding, Ann; Percival, Richard. (National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling (NATSEM), University of Canberra, ACT 2601 (1,2))
Australian child support reforms: a case study of the use of microsimulation modelling in the policy development process.
Australian Journal of Public Administration v.66 no.4 Dec 2007: 422-437

Child support is a difficult area of public policy, balancing sometimes competing needs of children, resident and non resident parents and the state. This article provides an insight into some of the processes involved in developing the new Australian Child Support Scheme (CSS), which will commence full operation in July 2008. In particular, it shows how a microsimulation model - CHILDMOD was constructed by the National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling (NATSEM) for use by the Ministerial Taskforce on Child Support and the government in the policy reform process. The availability of distributional analysis and modelling allowed the development of a comprehensive picture of how the reforms would affect CSS clients, thereby facilitating the adoption of major policy change.

* Children and Youth Services Review

Straus, Murray A. (Family Research Laboratory, University of New Hampshire, US)
Dominance and symmetry in partner violence by male and female university students in 32 nations.
Children and Youth Services Review v.30 no.3 Mar 2008: 252-275

Drawing on data from the International Dating Violence Study, this article investigates the widely held beliefs that physical violence against partners (PV) in marital, cohabiting and dating relationships is predominately perpetrated by men, and that male dominance in the relationship is the major risk factor for PV. Results from the study sample showed that male only or female only PV occurred at roughly the same rate and that bidirectional violence, in which both partners engage in physical assault, was more prevalent. Male only violence was the least frequent pattern. Dominance by male or female partner was associated with increased probability of violence. The implications of these results for PV prevention and treatment programs are discussed.

Developing Practice: The Child, Youth and Family Work Journal

Association of Childrens Welfare Agencies http://www.acwa.asn.au/

Watson, Wendy. (Child Welfare Worker)
Out-of-home care: creating pathways for achievement.
Developing Practice: The Child, Youth and Family Work Journal no.20 Summer-Autumn 2008: 3-6

Many young people who come into residential care have a history of negative experiences that affects their emotional and social wellbeing and their ability to relate and learn. It is important to create a positive, forward moving environment for them, right from the start of placement, because vulnerable young people in care may be further disadvantaged by a failure to offer any improvement to their prospects. This article considers the factors that contribute to the creation of a forward moving environment. It discusses the importance of connectedness among those with case management responsibility, those with casework responsibilities, those with day to day care, and the young person. One way of creating connectedness is through taking an integrated approach to the development of a care plan. The care plan acts as a framework for all parties by clearly setting out case management goals, service provider's placement goals, casework goals and the young person's personal goals. This goal oriented approach reassures the young person about each party's role, offers opportunities for meaningful interaction between young person and adult, and reinforces an expectation of positive outcomes.

Adams, John. (Manager, Family and Youth Services, Tangentyere Council, Alice Springs NT)
View from Central Australia.
Developing Practice: The Child, Youth and Family Work Journal no.20 Summer-Autumn 2008: 6-7

The change of government in Australia provides an opportunity for the Federal Government and Aboriginal organisations to come together and travel in the same direction in addressing Indigenous disadvantage in an inclusive way. This article warns that the Northern Territory intervention in its current form will not achieve its intended outcomes. Aboriginal people have the skills and abilities to become key players in the child protection system, and the government must engage with Aboriginal communities to draw on these skills. The article proposes that the government identify existing programs that are working well in communities and model its intervention initiatives on those programs. It suggests specifically that a recommendation contained in the 'Little children are sacred' report, that family centres be established in urban and remote communities, would be effective in providing employment for Aboriginal people and providing a safety mechanism so that the anticipated increase in notifications will not necessarily lead to an increased number of Aboriginal children in care.

Hillan, Lisa. (Programs Manager, Queensland Branch, Save the Children, and Chair, Child and Family Welfare Association of Australia)
What happened to my family? The place of family in residential care.
Developing Practice: The Child, Youth and Family Work Journal no.20 Summer-Autumn 2008: 8-10

By June 2006 the number of children in out of home care in Australia had grown to more than 25,000, putting the child protection system under increasing pressure. In addition, it has become more difficult to attract foster carers. Many jurisdictions are now reinvesting in residential care as the most effective solution for meeting the needs of children in care and creating stability for them. This article discusses the development of good residential care models for Australia, focusing particularly on the role of residential care in working with families. It considers the role of family services in preventing young people from entering the care system, the integration of mental health and drug and alcohol services for young people, managing family contact for young people in care, providing family therapy in residential care, and encouraging the participation of the young person's family in the residential care program.

Abbu, Cris; Nelson, Jacqueline. (Research Manager (1), Former Research Officer (2), Wesley Mission, Sydney NSW)
Exploring attitudes and exposure to mental illness: findings from a community survey.
Developing Practice: The Child, Youth and Family Work Journal no.20 Summer-Autumn 2008: 14-22

Poor mental health is one of the top 10 causes of disease burden and is associated with reduced quality of life, lower productivity and poorer general health. A telephone survey was undertaken in Sydney and Newcastle in order to elicit attitudes towards mental illness and to examine community exposure to mental illness and the effects of that exposure. This article reports the results in relation to: personal experience of mental illness, exposure through a family member or friend; trends in exposure; community attitudes towards mental illness, treatment for mental illness and mental illness in the workplace. It discusses the implications for mental health literacy and the employment of people with mental illness.

Bromfield, Leah; Osborn, Alexandra. (Manager, National Child Protection Clearinghouse, Australian Institute of Family Studies, Level 20, 485 La Trobe Street, Melbourne Vic 3000 (1); Postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of Adelaide, SA 5005 (2))
Australian research investigating residential and specialised models of care: a systematic review.
Developing Practice: The Child, Youth and Family Work Journal no.20 Summer-Autumn 2008: 23-32

The Australian child protection system is facing increased pressure as the number of children and young people in out of home care continues to grow. This article provides a summary of trends in the provision of out of home care in Australia, including the declining use of residential care during the 1980s and 1990s and the current renewed interest in its ability to achieve positive outcomes for children in the child protection system. The article then reviews nine Australian primary research studies investigating out of home care. It summarises what is known about residential and specialised models of care for children and young people in Australia, assesses the quality of the evidence base and identifies future research needs. It finds that despite the relative absence of Australian evidence in this area, most Australian jurisdictions have implemented some form of residential or specialised model of care. However, none of these models has been rigorously evaluated to determine its impact on outcomes for children. The article concludes that Australian research is therefore unable to inform policy or practice about the essential components for intensive support services and models of care.

Mendes, Philip; Moslehuddin, Badal; Goddard, Chris. (Senior Lecturer in Social Policy and Community Development (1), PhD Candidate, Department of Social Work (2), Director, National Research Centre for the Prevention of Child Abuse (3), 900 Dandenong Road, Caulfield East Vic 3145)
Improving the physical and emotional health of young people transitioning from state out-of-home care.
Developing Practice: The Child, Youth and Family Work Journal no.20 Summer-Autumn 2008: 33-40

Young people leaving care experience multiple disadvantages resulting from their abuse or neglect before coming into care, negative experiences in care, and the lack of support they receive in making the transition out of care. This article discusses these multiple disadvantages and the pathways to poor outcomes for many young people leaving care. It then describes a qualitative study recently undertaken in the Department of Social Work at Monash University, which interviewed 20 care leavers in order to gain an understanding of their experiences of leaving state care and the relationship between out of care experiences and post discharge outcomes. The article discusses the findings relating to poor physical and emotional health and early parenthood. It then considers possible policy reforms to address the physical and mental health of young people leaving state care, early parenthood and drug and alcohol services. It advocates closer collaboration between welfare and health professionals in order to improve health outcomes for care leavers.

Schrapel, Simon. (Acting Chief Executive Officer, Anglicare SA, PO Box 95, North Adelaide SA 5006)
Globalisation and its impacts on families in Australia: address to the International Anglican Family Network Consultation, Seoul, October 2007.
Developing Practice: The Child, Youth and Family Work Journal no.20 Summer-Autumn 2008: 41-49

The positive effects of globalisation include economic growth, the spread of technology and increased living standards in both rich and poor countries, but globalisation also has negative effects on domestic culture, the nature of employment, and economic and social stability. This discussion of the impact of globalisation on Australian families covers: the changing nature of work and workplaces; poverty and the distribution of wealth; family composition and breakdown; the impact of the media; consumerism and cost of debt; migration; the response of Anglican organisations in Australia to families affected by globalisation.

Hall, Natalie. (Department for Child Protection, PO Box 6334, East Perth WA 6892)
Child advocacy centres: a way forward to improve multi-agency services for Australian children who have been harmed.
Developing Practice: The Child, Youth and Family Work Journal no.20 Summer-Autumn 2008: 50-58

The child advocacy centre (CAC) model has been developed in response to the need to provide a one stop service for children who have been harmed and who come into the child protection system. CACs bring together in one location comprehensive, child focused services including medical examinations, forensic interviews, child safety assessments, therapy and support services. They offer improved outcomes by facilitating multi disciplinary planning, decision making, case review and case tracking. In this article the author reports on her study tour to the United States, Canada, England, Sweden, Poland and Hong Kong to observe CAC and other joint agency models in operation. She summarises evaluations of the CAC model and discusses the applicability of CACs in Australia.

E Law - Murdoch University Electronic Journal of Law v.13

E-Law, Murdoch University http://www.murdoch.edu.au/elaw/

Graydon, Clare; Hall, Guy; O'Brien-Malone, Angela. (School of Psychology (1,3), School of Law (2), Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch WA 6150)
The concept of sexual exploitation in legislation relating to persons with intellectual disability.
E Law - Murdoch University Electronic Journal of Law v.13 no.1 Mar 2006: 150-174, Online only (PDF 131K)
https://elaw.murdoch.edu.au/issues/2006/1/eLaw_Graydon_13_2006_09.pdf

The focus of this paper is on the use of the concept of sexual exploitation in legislation concerning sexual expression by persons with mental impairment, with particular emphasis on persons with intellectual disability. It examines the two main statutory approaches adopted in Australian jurisdictions and evaluates them according to the standards of being non-discriminatory, minimally restrictive of rights, and enforceable. The authors recommend the creation of criminal offences that prohibit sexual acts between persons in a relationship, either paid or voluntary, with a person with a mental impairment where the said relationship has a clearly defined and commonly understood scope which excludes sexual acts. This does not disqualify people as potential sexual partners based on employment categories such as professional, residential worker or carer. Rather, it is based on the status of the relationship between the individuals involved, and fulfils the purpose of legislation which is to afford protection from the vulnerabilities that accompany intellectual disability.

Crofts, Thomas; Summerfield, Tracey. (Senior Lecturer in Law, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch WA 6150 (1); Lecturer in Law, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley WA 6009 (2))
The licensing of sex work in Australia and New Zealand.
E Law - Murdoch University Electronic Journal of Law v.13 no.2 Jun 2006: 269-287, Online only (PDF 127K)
https://elaw.murdoch.edu.au/issues/2006/2/elaw_licensingprostitution_19-10-06.pdf

The legal frameworks for dealing with sex work include criminalisation, complete and partial decriminalisation and legislation of the industry. Licensing is often seen as a better form of regulation than criminalisation or partial criminalisation. The authors outline the regulatory system in each jurisdiction, including those proposed for Tasmania and Western Australia, focusing firstly on the social control model, as in Queensland, followed by the pure licensing systems best represented by New Zealand. They then compare the various licensing models and their impact, concluding that models like New Zealand best enable the protection of the community as well as the individuals involved in the industry.

King, Michael S. (Magistrate, Perth Drug Court)
Problem solving under the Dangerous Sexual Offenders Act 2006 (Western Australia).
E Law - Murdoch University Electronic Journal of Law v.14 no.1 Apr 2007: 32-53, Online only (PDF 149K)
https://elaw.murdoch.edu.au/issues/2007/1/eLaw_problem_solving.pdf

The Dangerous Sexual Offenders Act 2006 provides for continuing detention or community supervision orders concerning certain offenders under sentence of imprisonment for particular sexual offences who are found by the Supreme Court to be a serious danger to the community. The orders are for offenders' control, care and treatment and suggest a coercive or paternalistic approach. The literature suggests such an approach presents obstacles to offender rehabilitation. A problem solving approach as used in drug courts can help remove these obstacles and promote offender rehabilitation while monitoring offenders and holding them to account for their performance. The author argues that this 'therapeutic jurisprudence' approach is worthy of consideration by the Supreme Court and by lawyers representing clients in proceedings under the Act. (Journal abstract, edited)

Manez, Sarjit.
The road to reconciliation: should the legal system, Aboriginal customs and government play a role to reinstall some pride and sense of empowerment to Aboriginal people in Australia?
E Law - Murdoch University Electronic Journal of Law v.14 no.1 Apr 2007: 54-65, Online only (PDF 81K)
https://elaw.murdoch.edu.au/issues/2007/1/eLaw_road_conciliation.pdf

The author seeks to critically explore the extent Aboriginal customary law can be incorporated in the existing legal system, its practicalities and challenges. Some of the circumstances he considers require special considerations of Aboriginal customs include racial prejudice, linguistic barriers, lack of understanding of judicial processes, 'gratuitous concurrence', mitigating factors in sentencing, dysfunctional families and protection of vulnerable members. He concludes that blanket inorporation of Aboriginal customary law into the mainstream legal system is an impossible proposal, but that recognition of their culture and spiritual beliefs in addressing the distinct disadvantages Aborigines face will help bridge the divide that has been in place for so long.

Prunckun, Orren. (BA, LLB, Adelaide SA)
Particularly children; a qualitative evaluation of the effectiveness of Australia's Internet censorship regulations.
E Law - Murdoch University Electronic Journal of Law no.14 no.1 Apr 2007: 305-314, Online only (PDF 52K)
https://elaw.murdoch.edu.au/issues/2007/1/eLaw_particularly_children.pdf

This study explores the question of whether Australian Internet censorship regulations are effective by evaluating the Australian Broadcasting Services Amendment (Online Services) Act, 1999 (Cth) - its intent, purpose and practical implementation - as to how effective it is in protecting children. Background data was collected from published Government reports and qualitative data collected through interviews with a number of Internet Service Providers and Internet Content Hosts. The findings suggest that the legislation is not effective in controlling online content. Industry opinion confirmed that the Act was passive and only had an active component when a complaint was made. Further, the interviewees corroborated the view of some Internet security analysts that the World Wide Web is dynamic and continually changing. If correct, the ramifications of such rapid changes are that a more effective, long-term solution could lie in educating children and their parents about the Internet, and not relying purely on a technical or legislative response. (Journal abstract, edited)

Economic Record

Economic Society of Australia http://www.ecosoc.org.au/cc/economic-record

Jensen, Ben; Harris, Mark N. (Directorate for Education, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), France (1); Department of Econometrics and Business Statistics, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton Vic 3168 (2))
Neighbourhood measures: quantifying the effects of neighbourhood externalities.
Economic Record v.84 no.264 Mar 2008: 68-81

Analyses of neighbourhood externalities have failed to produce consistent findings of their influence on outcomes. The authors explore variation in estimations of youths' education expectations between two sets of neighbourhood proxies: one corresponding to the neighbourhood in which students' schools were located; the other to students' home neighbourhoods. Estimations including the latter were found to be less likely to suffer from misspecifications. This might help explain variation in previous findings and provides greater confidence in results showing that there are important neighbourhood effects that influence youths' education. (Journal abstract)

Creedy, John; Guest, Ross. (Department of Economics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic 3010 (1); Griffith Business School, Griffith University, Kessels Road, Nathan Qld 4111 (2))
Discounting and the time preference rate.
Economic Record v.84 no.264 Mar 2008: 109-127, graphs

This paper provides an analytical review of the evaluation of alternative time streams of consumption and the closely related concept of time preference. The potential sensitivity of comparisons, especially to the choice of time preference rate and elasticity of marginal valuation, is demonstrated. The nature of time preference, based on an axiomatic approach, is then discussed. The analysis of optimisation over time leads to the concept of the social time preference rate, and a difficulty with using this rate is highlighted. Approaches giving rise to declining discount rates over time are discussed, including alternative welfare functions and the role of uncertainty. This is followed by a critique of methods used to 'estimate' a time preference rate. Finally, complications introduced by non income differences between individuals are examined. Emphasis is placed on the central role of value judgements. (Journal abstract)

Evaluation Journal of Australasia

Australasian Evaluation Society http://www.aes.asn.au

Coryn, Chris LS; Gugiu, P Cristian; Davidson, E Jane; Schroter, Daniela C. (Director, Interdisciplinary PhD in Evaluation Program (1), PhD. Candidate (2,4), The Evaluation Center, Western Michigan University, USA; Director, Davidson Consulting Ltd (3))
Needs assessment in hidden populations using respondent-driven sampling.
Evaluation Journal of Australasia v.7 no.2 2007: 3-11

One of the primary methods for identifying relevant evaluative criteria or dimensions of merit for evaluating programs is assessing the needs of a program's target population. These criteria, or dimensions, are the attributes of the evaluand, which are used for determining how good or how effectively a program is meeting the target population's needs. However, identifying relevant criteria for many human and social service programs, especially those serving hidden populations (injection drug users, HIV positives people, homosexuals, prostitutes, and the homeless), poses numerous practical and methodological challenges. Using a case study approach, this article describes how Heckathorn's (1997) respondent driven sampling (RDS) was used to access and draw estimates from the homeless population in a mid sized urban community in the United States as part of an evaluation that included assessing the population's performance needs, gathering baseline data, and as one source for identifying the relevant criteria by which the program was evaluated. (Journal abstract, edited)

Kohn, Fay; Pirkis, Jane; Morley, Belinda; Naccarella, Lucio; Blashki, Grant. (Research Fellow (1,3), Associate Professor (2), Senior Research Fellow (4,5), Centre for Health Policy, Programs and Economics, School of Population Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic 3010)
Utilisation of findings from the evaluation of a major primary mental health care initiative in Australia.
Evaluation Journal of Australasia v.7 no.2 2007: 12-24

Much has been written about evaluation utilisation from a theoretical perspective, but relatively less emphasis has been given to empirical studies that examine how the findings from given evaluations are utilised. The current study examined the nature and extent of utilisation of the findings from an ongoing evaluation of a key component of a major national primary mental health care initiative in Australia. The initiative is known as the 'Better Outcomes in Mental Health Care' (BOiMHC) program, and the component involves 111 'Access to Allied Psychological Services' (ATAPS) projects, which provide mental health care to people who might otherwise have difficulty accessing such services. Nine reports have been produced during the evaluation of the ATAPS projects, and the current study explored how various stakeholders have used the first eight of these reports, via semi structured interviews with 10 purposefully sampled respondents. The study revealed that the findings in the reports have been put to instrumental use (influencing decisions about program modification), conceptual use (furthering the knowledge base regarding the delivery of primary mental health care in general) and symbolic or legitimative use (confirming the original philosophy behind the BOiMHC program). Various reasons may account for this wide range of uses, including the fact that every effort has been made to identify all relevant stakeholders, garner their support for the evaluation from the outset, and communicate the evaluation findings to them in a relevant manner. The study provides empirical evidence that evaluation findings can be widely utilised, providing they are geared to the needs of the relevant stakeholders. (Journal abstract)

Neale, Jenny; Tavila, Aliitasi. (Associate Professor and Head of School (1), Doctoral Student (2), School of Social and Cultural Studies, Victoria University, PO Box 600, Wellington NZ)
Evaluating a community initiative with a focus on Indigenous health.
Evaluation Journal of Australasia v.7 no.2 2007: 31-39

Porirua Healthlinks Trust, a community organisation in the Greater Wellington area, has been mounting an annual 'Creek Fest' since 2004. This is a one-day event that focuses on health and culture. It has become increasingly successful particularly in attracting large numbers of Pacific and Maori peoples who live in the immediate locality as well as those from further away. The festival, held in March 2006, was evaluated to determine whether it was meeting its stated objectives and what else the organisation might do to achieve its health related goals with regard to this initiative. Of the 500 questionnaires handed out on the day, nearly 400 were completed for analysis. This article draws on both the results of the survey and the process used to report on the evaluation of the festival. The self administered questionnaire with interviewer assisted delivery was seen to be the key to obtaining such a high response rate. Implications for undertaking evaluations in ethnically diverse communities are discussed. (Journal abstract)

Berends, Lynda. (Senior Research Fellow in Health Services Research, Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre, 54-62 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy VIC 3065)
Ethical decision-making in evaluation: ethics and evaluation.
Evaluation Journal of Australasia v.7 no.2 2007: 40-45

While ethical concerns are a central issue in evaluation, few evaluators have formal training in this area and consensus has not been reached about what evaluators seek in regard to ethics. In this article, different approaches to ethical review are described, drawing from: existing research on how evaluators currently deal with these concerns; the formal process put forward by Australia's National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), and theoretical models of decision-making. Findings from a regional forum on ethics and evaluation, which was held in Melbourne in 2006, are also reported. The Australasian Evaluation Society (AES) should continue to promote discussion on ethics to further the knowledge and skills of evaluators and the AES may also have a role in educating human research ethics committees, to increase their capacity to respond appropriately to evaluation proposals. (Journal abstract)

Roberts, Bridget. (Research Fellow in Health Services Research, Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre, 54-62 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy VIC 3065)
Making sense of experience: reflective practice.
Evaluation Journal of Australasia v.7 no.2 2007: 46-49

Society's response to alcohol and drug problems must continually evolve. The author expresses optimism about evaluation's ability to guide change from the ground up through developing a culture of ongoing learning. It is argued that the alcohol and other drug treatment sector has a particular need for empowering professional development processes. The article describes the background to, and personal experience of, a new unit within a Graduate Diploma in Alcohol and Other Drug Studies course. (Journal abstract)

Every Child

Early Childhood Australia Inc http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au

Hayes, Alan. (Director, Australian Institute of Family Studies, Level 20, 485 La Trobe Street, Melbourne Vic 3000)
Putting early childhood into a lifespan, social-inclusion perspective.
Every Child v.14 no.1 2008: 4-5

Many of the key developmental pathways begin in the early years, with positive early experiences being sustained throughout the lifespan and adverse experiences often leading to social exclusion and disadvantage. The lifespan perspective of development therefore has important implications for policy and practice designed to achieve equal opportunity for all members of society. Social policy is focusing increasingly upon developing an integrated approach towards solving social problems and building an inclusive society. The early childhood sector is well placed to contribute to the success of social inclusion policy agendas through its support of positive development pathways in the early years.

Cahir, Pam. (Chief Executive Officer, Early Childhood Australia Inc, PO Box 105, Watson ACT 2602)
Implementing the government's promises on early childhood.
Every Child v.14 no.1 2008: 6-7

The Rudd Government's preschool education commitment is to provide 15 hours of preschool for all four year olds at no extra cost to parents, for a minimum of 40 weeks, delivered by degree qualified early childhood teachers. Its commitment includes the development of a play based early years learning framework that focuses on pre literacy and pre numeracy skills. This article argues that high quality early childhood education can be achieved and maintained only through the employment of well qualified and well compensated staff. It also argues that the government's preschool commitment can be successfully achieved in both long day care centres and preschools.

D'Arcy, Craig. (Facilitator, Males in Early Childhood Network Group)
Blokes can do it as well.
Every Child v.14 no.1 2008: 10-11

Male staff and volunteers comprise about two per cent of early childhood workers in Australia. This article describes the barriers that discourage men's employment in the early childhood sector, such as negative community attitudes, lack of role models, working in isolation from other men, poor pay and working conditions, and ineffective recruitment, support and retention measures. It then discusses the strengths that men offer the early childhood sector. These include enhancing children's preschool experiences, meeting children's developmental needs for male and female role models, modelling positive male female relationships, and supporting fathers.

Australia. Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations.
Government and community working together in Murdi Paaki.
Every Child v.14 no.1 2008: 14-15

In 2003, the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) set up trial projects in eight selected areas in which local Indigenous communities and all levels of government worked in partnership to achieve agreed local priorities for development and action in key areas such as health, education, employment and culture. In Murdi Paaki region, in the far west of New South Wales, the trial project has been running in each of the 16 major communities for the past five years. Community Working Parties (CWPs) act for Indigenous people at the local level and are represented by a member in the Murdi Paaki Regional Assembly (MPRA). Priorities for the area were agreed by the MPRA, the Commonwealth Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) and the New South Wales Department of Education and Training. Programs and services designed to achieve community and regional priorities are specified in the 27 Shared Responsibility Agreements (SRAs) signed in the Murdi Paaki region between local communities and DEEWR. Many of the SRAs focus on services and programs for the health and well being of children and young people; for example, the refurbishment of an Indigenous preschool at Lightning Ridge, a community night patrol in Bourke, a Police and Community Youth Club van to serve as a mobile youth centre in the Walgett area.

Grieshaber, Sue; Miller, Melinda. (School of Early Childhood, Queensland University of Technology (1,2))
Being white: what does it mean, and what has it got to do with working with young children?
Every Child v.14 no.1 2008: 24-25

Since the end of the White Australia immigration policy in 1973, Australian society has become more and more diverse. The Cronulla riots, spectator racism and on field slurs at cricket matches are recent examples of racism in Australia, which is reflected in the media. Children are attuned to racism in the media, and many experience it themselves. Despite growing numbers of non white children in early childhood settings, most teachers are white. This article discusses the need for teachers to learn about whiteness and dominance and what it means to non white children. It argues that ignoring colour in the classroom perpetuates racism, and that teachers need to understand whiteness, dominance and privilege so that it does not remain an invisible force that excludes non white children.

FaHCSIA Research News

Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs http://www.fahcsia.gov.au/

Australia. Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs.
Evidence-based policy making.
FaHCSIA Research News no.30 Mar 2008: 1-5

The Rudd Government has made a commitment to a strong evidence base to support policy and program development. A panel discussion at the 2007 Social Policy Research Workshop considered ways in which the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) could enhance its ability to link research evidence with policy making. This article reports the panel's discussion, which focused particularly on building strong relationships with the research community in order to better position FaHCSIA to undertake robust analysis of research evidence about complex social policy issues.

Family Update

Australian Family Association http://www.family.org.au/

Conway, Angela; McCormack, Luke. (Victorian President (1), Research Officer (2), Australian Family Association, 582 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne Vic 3051)
R rated games push.
Family Update v.23 no.1 2008: 1-4

The gaming industry has called for a review of the classification rules for electronic games to include an R18+ classification. Currently, games with an R rating are banned. This article argues that games in the M and MA15+ range already contain high levels of violence, and are played by many teenagers. It discusses the negative effects of pornographic and/or violent gaming on child and adolescent development, including the difference between watching R rated content in films and in the interactive gaming environment.

Journal of Divorce & Remarriage

Vukalovich, Dragica; Caltabiano, Nerina. (Psychologist, PO Box 702, Manunda Qld 4870 (1); Senior Lecturer, Department of Psychology, James Cook University, Cairns Campus, PO Box 6811, Cairns Qld 4870 (2))
The effectiveness of a community group intervention program on adjustment to separation and divorce.
Journal of Divorce & Remarriage v.48 no.3 - no.4 2008: 145-168

'Rebuilding After Separation and Divorce' is a group intervention program for divorced and separated adults in Cairns, Queensland, that seeks to improve participants' coping skills and assist them through the adjustment process. This article examines the program's effectiveness in facilitating adjustment in the short term, through questionnaires on self esteem, social support, and emotional and social measures such as grief, anger, and trust. This article also discusses the literature on the role of self esteem, social support, and gender differences in adjustment to divorce and separation.

Journal of Interpersonal Violence

Trujillo, Monica Perez; Ross, Stuart. (Doctoral Candidate (1), Senior Fellow (2), Department of Criminology, University of Melbourne, Vic 3010)
Police response to domestic violence: making decisions about risk and risk management.
Journal of Interpersonal Violence v.23 no.4 Apr 2008: 454-473

Police are at the front line of domestic violence prevention. How then do police make judgements about the risks associated with domestic violence, and how do those judgements influence their actions? This study analysed family incident risk assessment reports made by Victorian police using a risk assessment instrument. A limited number of items on the risk assessment instrument were important in police decisions about risk. Police officers' judgments about level of risk and which risk management strategy to use were influenced by victims' levels of fear. The results suggest that the risk assessment instrument's effectiveness as a decision making tool could be increased by simplifying questions to more closely reflect police decision making process, and it should also accommodate information about the victim's fear and the perpetrator's emotional state.

* Legaldate

Nicholson, Alastair. (Honorary Professorial Research Fellow, University of Melbourne, Vic 3010)
Legal snapshot.
Legaldate v.20 no.1 Mar 2008: 7

The states and territories have all legislated to refer powers to the Commonwealth in the division of property between de facto couples. The Commonwealth Family Law Act provisions relating to superannuation apply only to parties to a marriage, but in response to the referral of powers a Bill was prepared that extends the provisions for married couples to de facto heterosexual couples. The Rudd government has promised to extend the provisions of the Bill to both heterosexual and same sex couples for the purposes of division of property and superannuation. This snapshot explains the principles of division of property, including superannuation, under the Family Law Act since the passage of Part VIIIB in 2001.

Medical Journal of Australia

Australasian Medical Publishing Company http://www.mja.com.au/

Preen, David B; Calver, Janine; Sanfilippo, Frank M; Bulsara, Max; Holma, C D'Arcy J. (Director, Centre for Health Services Research (1), Research Fellow (3,4), Professor and Chair in Public Health (5), School of Population Health, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley WA 6009; Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Research on Ageing, Curtin University of Technology, GPO Box U1987, Perth WA 6001 (2))
Prescribing of psychostimulant medications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children: differences between clinical specialties.
Medical Journal of Australia v.188 no.6 Mar 2008: 337-339, and Online
http://www.mja.com.au/public/issues/188_06_170308/pre10625_fm.html

Using data from the Stimulant Notification Database for Western Australia from August 2003 to December 2004, this study examined differences in psychostimulant prescribing between paediatricians and child and adolescent psychiatrists who treated Western Australian children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The data were analysed for mean number of patients treated by specialty, associations between prescriber specialty and patient characteristics, and associations between stimulant dose and patient characteristics and prescriber specialty. The results showed that treatment of children with stimulant medicines for ADHD differed between clinical specialties. Paediatricians treated more patients per prescriber, a greater proportion of boys and a younger age demographic, but relied less on combined psychotropic pharmacotherapy and prescribed lower stimulant doses than psychiatrists.

Correa-Velez, Ignacio; Johnston, Vanessa; Kirk, Joanne; Ferdinand, Angeline. (Deputy Direct and NHMRC Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Refugee Health Research Centre, La Trobe University, Bundoora Vic 3086 (1); Postdoctoral Fellow, Menzies School of Health Research and Institute of Advanced Studies, Charles Darwin University, Darwin NT 0909 (2); Health Program Coordinator, Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, 12 Batman Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003 (3))
Community-based asylum seekers' use of primary health care services in Melbourne.
Medical Journal of Australia v.188 no.6 Mar 2008: 344-348, and Online
http://www.mja.com.au/public/issues/188_06_170308/cor11086_fm.html

An audit of the patient files of three Melbourne asylum seeker health clinics between July 2005 and June 2006 was undertaken in order to investigate primary health care service utilisation and health presentations among asylum seekers. Data were collected from 998 consultations relating to 341 people. Because of visa status, 88 per cent of visits involved people with no Medicare support. The results showed that the three clinics are delivering care to a considerable number of people with complex health needs. A substantial number of asylum seekers present to clinics with psychological and social problems, and most have no access to government subsidised health care. There is an urgent need for policy change at federal and state level to address the health needs of asylum seekers.

Parslow, Ruth; Morgan, Amy J; Allen, Nicholas B; Jorm, Anthony F; O'Donnell, Colin P; Purcell, Rosemary. (Senior Research Fellow, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Vic 3010 (1); Research Assistant (2), Principal Research Fellow (3), Professorial Fellow (4), Senior Research Fellow (5), Research Fellow (6), ORYGEN Research Centre, University of Melbourne, 35 Poplar Road, Parkville Vic 3052)
Effectiveness of complementary and self-help treatments for anxiety in children and adolescents.
Medical Journal of Australia v.188 no.6 Mar 2008: 355-359, and Online
http://www.mja.com.au/public/issues/188_06_170308/par11060_fm.html

A systematic literature search using PubMed, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Library was carried out for 111 treatments up to February 2006, with the purpose of reviewing the evidence for the effectiveness of complementary and self help treatments for anxiety treatments and situational anxiety in children and adolescents. Intervention studies had been undertaken and reported for 11 treatments: bibliotherapy, dance and movement therapy, distraction techniques, humour, massage, melatonin, relaxation training, autogenic training, avoiding marijuana, a mineral and vitamin supplement (EMPower +) and music therapy. Several treatments were shown to have potential to reduce anxiety, including bibliotherapy, massage, melatonin and relaxation training. This review concludes that although some complementary and self help treatments might be useful for children and adolescents with anxiety, they need to be adequately tested through randomised controlled trials before they can be recommended.

Spriggs, Merle P; Gillam, Lynn H. (Bioethicist, Ethics Unit, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, Parkville Vic 3052 (1); Lecturer in Health Ethics, Centre for Health and Society, School of Population Health, University of Melbourne, Vic 3010 (2))
Consent in paediatric research: an evaluation of the guidance provided in the 2007 NHMRC National statement on ethical conduct in human research.
Medical Journal of Australia v.188 no.6 Mar 2008: 360-362, and Online
http://www.mja.com.au/public/issues/188_06_170308/spr10740_fm.html

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) released its revised 'National statement on ethical conduct in human research' in 2007. Public submissions related to paediatric consent that were made during the review process concerned children's competence to consent, mature minors and the requirement for parental consent, whether children can refuse to participate, and the provision of information to children. A useful addition to the Statement concerns the concept of levels of maturity, which help determine whether a child or young person's consent is necessary or sufficient for their participation in research. However, some changes in terminology, particularly the use of 'capacity' instead of 'competence' and the introduction of the term 'vulnerability', are not clearly defined and have the potential to create confusion.

NCOSS News

Council of Social Service of New South Wales http://www.ncoss.org.au

Edmonds, Samantha. (Deputy Director, Policy and Communications, NCOSS, 66 Albion Street, Surry Hills NSW 2016)
Human rights in Australia.
NCOSS News v.35 no.2 Mar 2008: 1, 6

Australia is party to numerous United Nations treaties on human rights, signalling its commitment to adopt domestic laws, policies and programs that will implement the rights set out in those treaties. The Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT) is among the treaties that Australia has ratified. The United Nations Committee Against Torture, which has oversight of the CAT, has found Australia in breach of its treaty obligations under the CAT on several occasions, notably for sending failed refugee applicants to countries where they may be tortured. In addition, Australia has not signed the Optional Protocol to the UN Convention against Torture (OPCAT), which allows United Nations and other independent bodies to visit detention centres or other places where people are deprived of their liberty. NCOSS encourages support of a petition, sponsored by the Forum of Australian Services for Survivors of Torture and Trauma, that calls for the Australian government to sign OPCAT.

NSW Women

NSW Office for Women, NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet http://www.women.nsw.gov.au/

Paid work; Unpaid work; Pay equity.
NSW Women no.9 Feb 2008: 4-6, and Online (whole issue PDF 3.8MB)
http:/ /www.women.nsw.gov.au/PDF/NSW_Women/NSWWomenIssue9.pdf

The extent of women's participation in the Australian labour force, and the factors affecting their participation, is summarised. The section on paid work provides a brief history on women's advancement in employment, a statistical account of occupation groups for Australia and for New South Wales public service and local government, and a brief discussion of the issues still curtailing women's labour force participation, such as pay equity, the gendered workforce, distribution of family responsibilities and the glass ceiling. The unpaid work section includes information on women's household, caring, volunteer and community work, and statistics on time use in Australian families. The section on pay equity discusses women's pay relative to men, including the effect of highly gendered occupations.

Parity

Council to Homeless Persons http://www.chp.org.au/

Innes, Graeme. (Human Rights Commissioner, Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, GPO Box 5218, Sydney NSW 2001)
Can rights solve the issue of homelessness?
Parity v.21 no.1 Feb 2008: 8-9

People experiencing homelessness face violations of a wide range of human rights. This article discusses how homeless people are vulnerable to human rights violations of the relevant international and Australian domestic laws. It considers: homelessness and the right to an adequate standard of living, personal safety and the right to vote, why homelessness is more than a housing issue, and the question of the legal enforceability of human rights. It argues that although looking at homelessness through a human rights lens will not in itself solve the problem, human rights provide a language and a framework for developing solutions to empower and encourage the social participation of homeless people.

Forsyth, Anna; Grewal, Harinder Kaur. (Human Rights Legal Officer (1), Human Rights Community Educator (2), Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission, Level 3, 380 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne Vic 3000)
Harnessing the Charter for the homeless.
Parity v.21 no.1 Feb 2008: 10-11

The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission has several new responsibilities under the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities, including the provision of education about human rights to the Victorian community. This article explains how the Charter brings about a shift from a welfare framework to a rights based framework, and how an emphasis on the government's human rights obligations benefits homeless people. It discusses the role of the Charter in establishing a dialogue model of human rights protection among the three branches of government, and the opportunity for community input into the dialogue. It encourages the homelessness assistance sector to engage with the Charter by: making sure that government is complying with its human rights obligations, and making sure that Parliament is assessing the impact of proposed laws on the human rights contained in the Charter.

Adler, Caroline. (Manager and Principal Lawyer, Homeless Persons' Legal Clinic, Public Interest Law Clearing House (PILCH), PO Box 13121 Law Courts, Melbourne Vic 3000)
The Victorian Charter: keeping your eyes on the prize.
Parity v.21 no.1 Feb 2008: 12-13

What practical use does the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities have for homeless people and their advocates? It has been argued that without the enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights such as the right to an adequate standard of living, the Charter's protection of civil and political rights has little relevance to homeless people. This article discusses ways in which the Charter can be used in its current form as an important tool of advocacy in the area of homelessness. It outlines the provisions of the Charter, describes the Charter's role in the litigation process, and discusses how the Charter supports advocacy beyond the courtroom.

Lynch, Philip. (Director, Human Rights Law Resource Centre, Level 1, 550 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne Vic 3000)
Getting it right: what does the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities mean for homelessness services?
Parity v.21 no.1 Feb 2008: 14-15

Human rights legislation such as the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities offers a valuable legislative framework to support the development and delivery of responsive, efficient and effective homelessness policy and services. This article discusses the role that a human rights framework can play in improving social policy and social services, and providing a tool for advocacy. It argues that if the Victorian Charter is to fulfil its potential in ensuring that the human rights of homeless people are respected, social services agencies must make a commitment to awareness raising, education and capacity building around human rights. Human rights training for managers and decision makers is essential to ensure that service delivery complies with the Victorian Charter.

Santow, Edward. (Senior Lecturer in Law, and Director, Charter of Human Rights Project, Gilbert and Tobin Centre of Public Law, University of New South Wales, NSW 2052)
What can the Victorian Charter do for homeless people?
Parity v.21 no.1 Feb 2008: 16-17

The Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities requires the Victorian government to act in accordance with the human rights principles set out in the Charter. This article considers how the Charter may be of use in protecting the rights of homeless people. The Charter focuses on protecting civil and political rights, but protects relatively few economic, social or cultural (ESC) rights. The article discusses the way in which the Charter in its current form operates, and the obligation it places on public authorities to act in a way that is compatible with the civil and political rights specified in the Charter. It then argues that the Charter would offer more effective protection of the rights of homeless people if it were amended to include ESC rights. It suggests that advocates for the rights of homeless people should work towards the incorporation of ESC rights in the Charter when the Charter is reviewed in 2010.

Hollows, Andrew. (Hanover Welfare Services, PO Box 1016, South Melbourne Vic 3205)
Human rights, the Victorian Charter and homelessness: the experience of Hanover.
Parity v.21 no.1 Feb 2008: 18-19

How relevant are mechanisms of human rights protection to people in Victoria experiencing homelessness? In considering the efficacy of the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities in improving the material situation of homeless people in Victoria, this article explores three main issues: the importance of the language of human rights in reframing the debate about homelessness; the persistence of demonstrable breaches of the civil and political rights of people experiencing homelessness; and, the interplay of individual and institutional responsibilities with rights. Overall, the Charter is seen as achieving positive change in policy debates through reframing homelessness as a human rights issue rather than a welfare problem.

Macduff, Anne. (Lecturer in Law, Australian National University, Canberra ACT 0200)
One step forward, two steps back: rights protection for the homeless under the ACT Human Rights Act.
Parity v.21 no.1 Feb 2008: 20-22

With its Human Rights Act in 2004, the Australian Capital Territory was the first Australian state or territory to incorporate international human rights law into legislation. Starting from an assumption that rights legislation is a good thing, this article assesses the impact of the Act in protecting the rights of homeless people. It evaluates the effectiveness of the Act in relation to homeless people by examining the right to adequate housing and the right to equality before the law. It concludes that the Act has failed to open up the policy debate on homelessness to a human rights perspective. It suggests that the Act has been a step in the wrong direction for homeless people, because it deliberately omits the right to adequate housing. It has also failed to prevent the violation through other pieces of legislation of rights explicitly recognised in the Act.

McKinnon, Gabrielle. (Faculty of Law, Australian National University, Canberra ACT 0200)
Home truths: housing rights under the Human Rights Act.
Parity v.21 no.1 Feb 2008: 23-24

Although the ACT Human Rights Act 2004 has had only limited impact on policies and services relating to homelessness in the Australian Capital Territory, recent developments suggest that it has the potential to ensure greater accountability for housing rights. The Act signals a shift in social policy from welfare to rights, thus supporting advocacy framed in human rights terms. While not directly protecting housing rights, its role in protecting other rights such as the right to equality, the rights of children and the family, the right to security of the person and the right to a fair trial (including civil hearings and decision making) provides indirect protection for homeless people or those at risk of homelessness. The use of the Act in the courts and tribunals is beginning to show promise of having a real impact on individual cases involving housing. In addition, the ACT government has recently proposed an amendment to the Act that would provide a further enforcement mechanism through the duty of public authorities to act consistently with the human rights specified in the Act.

Pratley, Michelle; Bradfield, Michelle. (Barrister, London UK (1); Research Fellow, Lauterpacht Centre for International Law, University of Cambridge, UK (2))
The impact that failed to eventuate: homelessness and the UK's Human Rights Act.
Parity v.21 no.1 Feb 2008: 25-26

Expectation that the United Kingdom's Human Rights Act of 1998 would have a significant impact on the law of housing has proved unfounded. This article provides an overview of the litigation stemming from the Act in the context of homelessness, and also discusses non litigation mechanisms that have minimised the infringement of rights in policy and legislation processes. The article concludes that the primary reasons for the limited impact of the Act on homelessness are: the Act protects civil and political rights, but not economic, social and cultural rights; rights are not absolute and are subject to many broad qualifications; and, judiciary has demonstrated a large degree of deference in matters potentially affecting the allocation of resources.

Hunter, Caroline. (Senior Lecturer, University of Manchester UK)
Human rights and homelessness in the UK.
Parity v.21 no.1 Feb 2008: 27-28

The purpose of this article is to examine the impact of the Human Rights Act 1998 on homelessness law in England and Wales. The first part of the article describes the Act and its legal consequences. The article then examines how the Act has been relevant to cases under the Housing Act 1996 Part 7. Finally, it looks at some of the broader impacts of the Human Rights Act on housing law and concludes that the Act cannot be expected to provide the legal basis for protection of the homeless when it protects individual and civil political rights but not economic and social rights.

Oliver, Vanessa. (York University, Canada)
The true north strong and free? The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms' impact on homelessness.
Parity v.21 no.1 Feb 2008: 29

The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms came into effect in April 1982, when the numbers of homeless people were very low. It was deemed unnecessary at that time to build in Charter rights to housing and health care. The Charter recognises democratic, legal and equality rights and the specific rights of Aboriginal Canadians, but does not include clear provisions to guarantee social and economic rights. This article examines Canadian Supreme Court decisions that interpret section 15 of the Charter, the protection of equality rights, and section 7, which recognises the right to life, liberty and security of the person, in terms of social rights. It concludes that although the Charter has the potential to protect social rights through the courts, amendments are needed to explicitly guarantee an adequate standard of living that ensures an inclusive and equitable society.

Ngatia, Jennifer. (Policy Analyst, Human Rights Commission, PO Box 6751, Auckland, NZ)
A New Zealand approach to extending human rights.
Parity v.21 no.1 Feb 2008: 30-31

The right to housing is of central importance to the enjoyment of social, economic and cultural rights, and in particular to the right to health and education. The New Zealand Human Rights Commission has found that economic, social and cultural rights do not have the same level of protection in New Zealand law as civil and political rights. The Commission's efforts to address homelessness and other housing issues focus on: the role of the Commission under the Human Rights Act 1993; Mana ki te Tangata (Action Plan for Human Rights); and, promoting a human rights approach. The human rights approach emphasises the priority that should be accorded to rights in the allocation of resources, the status of the rights holder, and the prescriptive nature of the duties imposed on the state in respect to realising those rights. The Commission believes that the advancement of a human rights agenda can assist in addressing housing issues and protecting and promoting the rights of homeless people.

Hilton, Kristen. (Executive Director, Public Interest Law Clearing House (PILCH), PO Box 13121 Law Courts, Melbourne Vic 3000)
The right to access to adequate housing: the South African experience.
Parity v.21 no.1 Feb 2008: 32-33

South Africa's Constitution specifically protects socioeconomic rights, including the right to adequate housing. Decisions of the South African Constitutional Court have shown that housing rights and a number of other socioeconomic rights are justiciable; in particular, the Court's decision in Grootboom (2000) gave content and substance to the right to adequate housing and had an important impact on the development of housing law and the recognition of social and economic rights generally. This article describes the Grootboom case and its implications. Despite the promise of the Grootboom and other decisions, problems of implementation at the local level still stand in the way of the Constitution's ability to protect and promote economic and social rights such as adequate housing.

Baraka, Elisabeth. (Coordinator, Homeless Persons' Legal Service, Public Interest Advocacy Centre, Level 9, 299 Elizabeth Street, Sydney NSW 2000)
The use of the Protocol for Homeless People during APEC.
Parity v.21 no.1 Feb 2008: 34-35

The Protocol for Homeless People in Public Places was developed in time for the Sydney Olympic Games in 2000, and is endorsed by the New South Wales Police Service and 9 other government agencies. The