Legislation
This page will endeavour to provide information relating to different areas of legislation that would be of interest to our Member Schools.
Proposed Reforms to Bodily Injury Damages Law
Sensible risk management is always part of managing any organization and in the case of schools is essential given that the care and well of the children and young people is paramount.
AISSA supports the government’s intention to ensure ongoing accessibility to public liability insurance, to stabilize premiums and to see them ultimately reduce, partly by reducing the number and size of claims, while maintaining the right of people to fair and equitable compensation.
Independent schools should be included in any government initiatives to curtail rising insurance costs. If the impact on independent schools is not addressed, further harm to the education of students may occur.
The Recreational Services Bill as drafted would have had a substantial adverse impact on schools. AISSA urged the government to examine the possible multiplier effects of the proposed legislation on schools and to consult with the school authorities about their concerns.
AISSA's major concern, that parents could waive the responsiblities of some providers of recreational activities to the safety of children, has been subsequently withdrawn from the draft Bill.
Associated Documents
Proposed Reforms Bodily Injury Damages LawFood Safety
Food Safety Regulations 2002 are the final part of the food reform legislative package.
There are significant changes in the rules for food handling and in ensuring that premises and equipment are appropriate for maintaining food safety.
The most important changes are:
Food businesses will need to notify their local Council of their contact details, the nature of their business and their address.
Food businesses will need to ensure that food handlers and supervisors have the skills and knowledge needed to handle food safely.
Those businesses that handle potentially hazardous food will need to have a probe type thermometer and to exercise controls on the temperature of such foods. The foods affected are those that could become unsafe if stored at the wrong temperature and include meats, milk and many prepared foods.
There are stricter requirements for food displays such as smorgasbords and salad bars, which will need to be supervised and provided with protective covers or sneeze guards.
New rules will require food handlers to report to their supervisor if they have symptoms, or know that they are a carrier, of a food borne illness. Such persons are obliged not to handle food until they are recovered or, if a carrier, free of the organism of concern.
A copy of the Food Safety Standards was supplied to food businesses in October.
South Australia’s new food legislation will be expected to be operative from December 2002.
For further details, see the ANZFA website at www.foodstandards.gov.au