FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT AND ACCOUNTABILITY AMENDMENT (2014 MEASURES NO. 6) REGULATION 2014 (SLI NO 107 OF 2014) EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT AND ACCOUNTABILITY AMENDMENT (2014 MEASURES NO. 6) REGULATION 2014 (SLI NO 107 OF 2014)

The Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 (the FMA Act) provides a framework of rules for the proper management of public money and public property by Chief Executives and officials of FMA Act agencies. The FMA Act applies to Commonwealth Departments of State and their staff, parliamentary departments and their staff, and prescribed agencies.

Subsection 65(1) of the FMA Act provides that the Governor-General may make regulations prescribing matters required or permitted by that Act to be prescribed, or necessary or convenient to be prescribed for carrying out or giving effect to that Act.

To respond to the High Court's decision in Williams v Commonwealth (2012) 288 ALR 410, the Financial Framework Legislation Amendment Act (No. 3) 2012 inserted section 32B of the FMA Act, which authorised the Commonwealth to make, vary and administer arrangements and grants specified in the Financial Management and Accountability Regulations 1997 (the Principal Regulations). Section 32B also authorises the Commonwealth to make, vary and administer arrangements for the purposes of programmes specified in the Principal Regulations. Schedule 1AA and Schedule 1AB to the Principal Regulations specify the arrangements, grants and programmes.

Schedule 1 to the Regulation amends the Principal Regulations to establish legislative authority in Schedule 1AB for the Commonwealth Government to spend on a range of programmes, grants and activities across eleven portfolios. Many of these activities were announced in the 2014-15 Budget. The activities are in the following portfolios:

Details of the Regulation are set out at Attachment A. A Statement of Compatibility with Human Rights is at Attachment B.

The Regulation is a legislative instrument for the purposes of the Legislative Instruments Act 2003.

The Regulation commences on the day after registration on the Federal Register of Legislative Instruments.

In accordance with section 17 of the Legislative Instruments Act 2003, consultation has taken place with: the Attorney-General's Department; the Department of Agriculture; the Department of Education; the Department of Employment; the Department of the Environment; the Department of Health; the Department of Industry; the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development; the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet; the Department of Social Services and the Department of the Treasury.

A regulation impact statement is not required as the Regulation only applies to FMA Act Agencies and does not adversely affect the private sector.

Details of the Financial Management and Accountability Amendment (2014 Measures No. 6) Regulation 2014

Section 1 - Name of Regulation

This section provides that the title of the Regulation is the Financial Management and Accountability Amendment (2014 Measures No. 6) Regulation 2014.

Section 2 - Commencement

This section provides that the Regulation commences on the day after it is registered on the Federal Register of Legislative Instruments.

Section 3 - Authority

This section provides that the Regulation is made under the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 (FMA Act).

Section 4 - Schedule(s)

This section provides that the Financial Management and Accountability Regulations 1997 is amended as set out in Schedule 1 to the Regulation.

Schedule 1 - Amendments

Item 1 - Part 2 of Schedule 1AB (at the end of the table)

This item adds one item to this Part to establish legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding to Tasmania for the continued operation of the Mersey Community Hospital, to be administered by the Department of Health.

New table item 2 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund the State of Tasmania for the continued operation of the Mersey Community Hospital in Latrobe, Tasmania.

Funding of $13.6 million for 2014-15 was included in the 2014-15 Budget. This was in addition to the base funding of $62.7 million in 2014-15 already included in the forward estimates. As the funding is provided following negotiations to assist a State, merits review is not applicable.

The funding is under the Department of Health's Outcome 4: Acute Care, Programme 4.1: Public Hospitals and Information. Further detail is available in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.10, Health Portfolio at page 99.

Item 2 - Part 3 of Schedule 1AB (note)

This item repeals the note to Part 3 of Schedule 1AB and substitutes three items to this Part to establish legislative authority for the Government to provide grants of financial assistance to persons other than a State or Territory for matters administered by the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development, and the Department of Health, respectively.

New table item 1 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to contribute towards meeting the costs of a runway extension and associated capital works at Hobart International Airport.

Funding of $38 million will be allocated from 2014-15 to 2016-17 for a runway extension of up to 500 metres and associated works at the Hobart International Airport. This measure was announced in the Government's Economic Growth Plan for Tasmania (the Growth Plan).

The Growth Plan is a suite of initiatives which focuses on infrastructure, communications, jobs and technology and aims to reset Tasmania's economic course to one of growth, new jobs and rising living standards. To support inbound tourism and to further entrench Hobart's status as an international gateway for Antarctic and marine research, the Government has committed to an extension of the Airport's runway and associated lighting and taxiway works.

The Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development will have responsibility for implementing the commitment relating to Hobart International Airport. The Department will negotiate a project plan for implementation of this commitment by Hobart International Airport. A funding agreement with Hobart International Airport will be entered into and payments made based on the achievement of milestones and compliance with legislative requirements.

The Government is providing a one-off grant to contribute to the provision of infrastructure that will have ongoing economic benefit. As a result, the runway extension contribution is not subject to external review.

Funding is itemised under Programme 2.4 Air Transport - Expenses, in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.13, Infrastructure and Regional Development Portfolio at page 68.

New table item 2 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to establish of Rural and Regional General Practice Teaching Infrastructure Grants to strengthen the rural health workforce and improve health service delivery in rural and regional communities.

The funding will be provided by the Commonwealth Government to existing general practices in rural and remote settings for additional consultation rooms and space for teaching medical students and supervising general practice (GP) registrars.

Funding of $52.5 million over three years was included in the 2014-15 Budget. Funding recipients will be selected from a Department of Health Panel, with expert advice obtained if required, following a competitive Invitation to Apply process with selection criteria published in grant guidelines which will be available publicly. The grants will be capped at $300,000 and successful practices will be required to match the Commonwealth commitment.

The Department of Health has a complaints mechanism for grants and funding processes which is provided publicly on the internet at: http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/

publishing.nsf/Content/pfps-complaintsprocedures. Applicants are also able to seek review from the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Given these available avenues for review, no further merits review is provided for.

The funding is under the Department of Health's Outcome 7: Health Infrastructure, Regulation, Safety and Quality, Programme 7.5: Health Infrastructure. Further detail is available in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.10, Health Portfolio at page 138.

New table item 3 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund the Orygen Youth Health Research Centre to establish and operate the National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health.

The Centre will be a national shared resource that will build on Australia's strengths in youth mental health. The Centre will focus on workforce development and developing new interventions for young people experiencing mental illness. This Centre will improve the options for treatment and support available to young people affected by mental illness and their carers.

Funding of $18 million over four years was included in the 2014-15 Budget. The Government is providing funding for the establishment and operation of the Centre with the expectation that it would lead to the Centre becoming self-sustaining after four years. As a result, the establishment of the Centre is not subject to external review.

The funding is under the Department of Health's Outcome 5: Primary Health Care, Programme 5.4: Mental Health. Further detail of the Centre is available in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.10, Health Portfolio at page 114.

Item 3 - Part 4 of Schedule 1AB (at the end of the table)

This item will add 50 items to Part 4 of Schedule 1AB to establish legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to spend on the specified programmes, grants and activities, to be administered by: the Attorney-General's Department; the Department of Agriculture; the Department of Education; the Department of Employment; the Department of the Environment; the Department of Health; the Department of Industry; the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development; the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet; the Department of Social Services and the Department of the Treasury, respectively.

New table item 13 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide support to the manufacturing industry by providing $50 million in assistance over three years.

The programme will assist Australian manufacturers to transition into higher value and/or niche manufacturing activities which will result in a new end product and increase a business's competitiveness and sustainability.

Grants of up to $10 million will be awarded for the purposes of:

* alterations and/or extensions to premises to facilitate a new production process;

* the acquisition of machinery and equipment required for a new production process; and

* highly specialised training in the use and maintenance of new machinery and equipment required for a new production process.

Grants will be awarded on a competitive, merit basis in line with Ministerial Guidelines. Eligibility and merit criteria for the grants will include:

* status as an Australia-based trading corporation, either individually or in consortia;

* current capacity of grant recipient(s) to manufacture in Australia;

* details of the new or developing manufacturing activity;

* evidence of commercial viability of the project;

* evidence that grant recipient(s) can co-contribute three dollars for every dollar of grant funding;

* details about the project's multiplier effect or contribution to the Australian economy; and

* demonstrated community support for the project.

The programme will commence from July 2014.

The programme is unsuitable for merits review as the programme has limited funds and only a proportion of applications can be met. A successful application for review would result in funding delays that would affect all grants under the programme, affecting the successful and competitive transition of manufacturers from activities currently in decline to new and emerging production areas.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.12, Industry Portfolio at page 168.

New table item 14 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to support diversification and competitiveness in industry by providing or funding the provision of training and training support services through an Industry Skills Fund.

The $476.7 million Fund was announced in the 2014-15 Budget. It will provide targeted, tailored training services to assist industry to diversify and improve competitiveness rapidly in a global market.

The Fund will provide greater flexibility in workforce and industry adjustment through high-quality, demand-driven training. The Fund will deliver up to 200,000 training and support services with the purpose of up-skilling employees and filling training support gaps.

The Fund is a single service point for applicants to access nationally recognised and accredited training, skills sets and support services not available from the States and Territories. There will be a particular focus on being responsive to industry. These services will be designed to fast-track up-skilling employees and may be delivered online as well as in the workplace.

The Fund will commence on 1 January 2015. Grants under the Fund will be available through a competitive process on a sliding co-contribution basis, ensuring employer participation and shared investment in workforce development.

Grant awards are unsuitable for merits review as there are limited funds available in each funding round and only a proportion of applications can be met. A successful application for review would result in funding delays that would affect all grants under the programme, delaying the delivery of training and support to employees in industries undergoing rapid diversification and change.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.12, Industry Portfolio at page 167.

New table item 15 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to drive business competitiveness by providing, or funding the provision of, support for business improvement and commercialisation of new ideas under the Entrepreneurs' Infrastructure Programme.

The Programme, worth $484.2 million, was announced in the 2014-15 Budget. It will use a single business service to deliver business improvement by providing access to:

* management advice and skills from experienced private sector business advisers; and

* connections with global supply chains.

It will assist businesses to commercialise new ideas by providing access to:

* commercialisation advisers;

* support for businesses to collaborate with the research sector to re-engineer business operations and develop new ideas with commercial potential;

* due diligence and facilitation/brokering for firms accessing private sector capital; and

* support for businesses to help them access specialist expertise, such as expertise on intellectual property protection, as well as to progress the commercialisation of their new ideas.

The programme will reduce business costs by streamlining access to government information and services, including call centre and web access (business.gov.au).

The programme is unsuitable for merits review as the programme has limited funds and only a proportion of grant applications can be met. A successful application for review would result in funding delays that would affect all grants under the programme, affecting the successful and timely provision of support for business improvement and commercialisation of new ideas.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.12, Industry Portfolio at page 167.

New table item 16 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide or arrange for the provision of education and training for automotive workers and for automotive workers who become unemployed during their training, to develop their skills and capacity to engage in other work.

As one element of the Industry Growth Fund announced by the Prime Minister, the Hon Tony Abbott MP, and Minister for Industry, the Hon Ian Macfarlane MP, on 30 April 2014, the Skills and Training Programme seeks to address the impact of the decline of the automotive manufacturing sector by providing a pre-emptive skills and training initiative to support workers and employers who have been, or who are likely to be, adversely affected by the automotive manufacturing sector decline.

A National Governance Committee will aim to implement the most efficient, effective and equitable processes possible by streamlining government services, simplifying their delivery, and getting value for money using existing resources, such as government subsidised training.

The programme will focus on providing assistance to up to 12,375 low skilled but capable workers and older displaced workers (aged 50 and over). The programme will:

* plan a co-ordinated and collaborative response, including gathering affected workforce characteristics and future employment information;

* consult with displaced workers, including about their skills and capabilities to map how they can translate into new job opportunities in areas of demand;

* organise Recognition of Prior Learning and skills gap training by engaging with Registered Training Organisations and State Skills Agencies; and

* take a case management approach to supporting targeted displaced workers to complete training and increase their exposure to potential employers.

This initiative will mean fewer workers become unemployed, need Employment Services assistance, Centrelink unemployment assistance or commence early retirement.

Grant awards are unsuitable for merits review as there are limited funds available in each funding round and only a proportion of applications can be met. A successful application for review would result in funding delays that would affect all grants under the programme, delaying the delivery of training and support to workers adversely affected by the closure of the automotive manufacturing sector in 2017.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.12, Industry Portfolio at page 166.

New table item 17 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to assist Australian automotive supply chain companies to diversify their businesses out of the domestic automotive manufacturing sector.

The $20 million programme, announced by the Prime Minister and Minister for Industry as part of the Industry Growth Fund, will provide funding to corporations within the meaning of paragraph 51(xx) of the Constitution and to entities involved in interstate or overseas trade or commerce.

The programme will assist automotive supply chain companies to diversify their businesses through investment in capital equipment in order to retain manufacturing capability in Australia. Applicants must have undertaken an arms-length business capability assessment to ensure that they have the capability and capacity to undertake the proposed project.

The programme will be a competitive programme with Ministerial Guidelines. An independent selection panel will review applications and award funding. The programme is unsuitable for merits review as the programme has limited funds and only a proportion of applications can be met. A successful application for review would result in funding delays that would affect the successful diversification of automotive component manufacturers from activities currently in decline to new and emerging production areas or markets.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.12, Industry Portfolio at page 166.

New table item 18 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide financial assistance to Australian manufacturing trading corporations to promote the growth of the non-automotive manufacturing sector in Victoria and South Australia.

The $59.8 million programme, announced by the Prime Minister and Minister for Industry as part of the Industry Growth Fund, will be directed to firms that have demonstrated capability to access and capture market opportunities, both in Australia and internationally.

Grants will range from $500,000 to $5 million and funding recipients will be required to co-contribute up to three dollars for every dollar of funding to ensure commitment by applicants and encourage industry-led investment. Grants will be awarded by open competitive funding rounds (maximum of two rounds), with eligibility and selection criteria set out in Ministerial Guidelines. There will be separate elements for Victoria and South Australia.

The programme will run from July 2014 to July 2018 to allow applicants sufficient time to build large-scale projects that will mature in parallel with the wind-down of the automotive manufacturing sector in Victoria and South Australia.

The programme is unsuitable for merits review as the programme has limited funds and only a proportion of applications can be met. A successful application for review would result in funding delays that would adversely affect the ability of the automotive manufacturing sector in Victoria and South Australia to successfully transition from activities currently in decline to new and emerging production areas before the closure of the automotive manufacturing sector in 2017.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.12, Industry Portfolio at page 166.

New table item 19 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to support and develop infrastructure, stimulate new business activity and enhance economic development.

The programme is a component of the Industry Growth Fund announced by the Prime Minister and Minister for Industry on 30 April 2014. The $29.8 million programme will run from July 2014 to July 2018 and support projects that:

* generate investment in capital projects;

* generate new economic activity in South Australia and Victoria;

* facilitate industry collaboration to develop enabling infrastructure including common use facilities; and

* improve competitiveness, productivity and business sustainability.

The programme aims to complement the Next Generation Manufacturing Investment Programme by stimulating private sector investment in capital projects in high-growth, non-manufacturing sectors.

Funding will be awarded through open, competitive funding rounds (maximum of two rounds), with eligibility and selection criteria set out in Ministerial Guidelines. An advisory panel will assess applications.

The programme is unsuitable for merits review as the programme has limited funds and only a proportion of applications can be met. A successful application for review would result in funding delays that would adversely affect the ability of industry in Victoria and South Australia to generate investment and new economic investment in the region before the closure of the automotive manufacturing sector in 2017.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.12, Industry Portfolio at page 166.

New table item 20 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to engage in expenditure for the purpose of enabling the loan, from the Government of the United Kingdom, of the original chart of Australia prepared by Captain Matthew Flinders in 1804 during his 1801-03 circumnavigation of the continent, and the exhibition of the Chart in the Australian Capital Territory, for the benefit of the nation.

The Chart is held at the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO) and is part of the United Kingdom National Archives. The transfer of the Chart to Australia is dependent on the agreement of the United Kingdom to release the document on long-term loan. Australia has no claim of ownership on this item.

Funding for this proposal was provided in the Fiscal Budget Impact of Federal Coalition Policies from within the $163 million dedicated to 'other environment policies'. The Commonwealth Government has allocated $0.2 million over two years to cover negotiations in 2014-15 and associated costs with the loan in 2015-16.

The Department will enter into a Memorandum of Understanding to enable the provision of funding to the appropriate national collecting institution to undertake all aspects of the delivery of this project and all associated costs. As a result, the allocation of resources for these purposes is not subject to merit review.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.2, Attorney-General's Portfolio at page 20.

New table item 21 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to develop a user friendly insurance aggregator website for the North Queensland market for strata, home building and home contents insurance.

In recent years, there have been significant increases in insurance premiums for home building and contents and residential strata property insurance in North Queensland. There are a number of factors which have contributed to these premium increases, including the reassessment of risk by insurance companies after flood and cyclone events across the region over recent years. Premiums for some North Queensland residents have risen by more than 400 per cent from their pre-2010 levels, leading to increased affordability problems and rising under-insurance risks for households.

The Government has announced measures to respond to this problem, including the establishment of the insurance aggregator website. The development of this website was announced by the Assistant Treasurer, Senator the Hon Arthur Sinodinos, and the Premier of Queensland, the Hon Campbell Newman MP, on 29 November 2013. The website will assist consumers by reducing search and transaction costs and allowing consumers to make more informed decisions about their insurance purchases.

The Government is providing funding over four years with the expectation that the insurance comparison website will be hosted by an external provider. As a result, the establishment of the comparison website is not subject to external review.

Funding details are in Table 2 of Budget Paper No. 2, Budget Measures 2014-15 at page 213.

New table item 22 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the environment and heritage through the Green Army Programme which is the Australian Government's primary conservation management programme.

Over the long term, the Green Army Programme will establish teams of young (17 to 24 year olds) and motivated Australians who would help communities deliver local, practical and enduring environmental and heritage outcomes. The programme's primary objectives are:

* environmental conservation by supporting the delivery of enduring environment and heritage conservation outcomes at the local, regional and national level;

* community engagement by working cooperatively with community groups, and help raise awareness of environment and heritage values in the community;

* Green Army participation by engaging and deploy young Australians to participate in Green Army Teams, having the highest regard for participant safety, wellbeing and personal need and development; and

* experience, skills and training by providing participants with opportunities to undertake training recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework, in a range of areas which increase their skills and qualifications.

The programme will be delivered by an external service provider(s) who will be sourced via a Request for Tender process advertised through AusTender and managed by the Department of the Environment. Providers will be responsible for recruiting, establishing and managing Green Army Teams across Australia to engage in approved projects, alongside communities, that support local conservation priorities.

The Minister for the Environment will approve, at the recommendation of the Department of the Environment, Green Army Projects that are submitted by individuals and organisations, such as local groups, councils and natural resource management bodies, in response to annual Green Army Project Guidelines. A Green Army Project involves a Green Army Team (of up to ten people including one Team Supervisor) undertaking conservation activities over a 20 to 26 week period.

Funding of $525 million has been allocated to the programme over five years, with the programme commencing in 2014-15. Complaint handling procedures are outlined in the Green Army Programme Guidelines 2014-2017, which include an internal review process within the Department of the Environment and the option to involve the Commonwealth Ombudsman.

Payments will be made as part of Programme 1.1 Sustainable Management of Natural Resources and the Environment, described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.7, Environment Portfolio at page 39.

New table item 23 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for Community Heritage and Icons Grants.

The Community Heritage and Icons Grants will support local historic and heritage groups across Australia in the conservation, development and interpretation of heritage by providing grants to local historical and heritage groups for heritage projects. The Community Heritage and Icons Grants aim to provide positive on-ground impacts for local communities and their heritage throughout Australia and will support community wellbeing through improvement to regional community assets.

The Community Heritage and Icons Grants will provide funding to the Australian Heritage Council to support it in its functions as described in the Australian Heritage Council Act 2003. Funding will also be provided to the Federation of Australian Historical Societies to support it in its role as the peak body representing historical societies throughout Australia.

Information on the Community Heritage and Icons Grants, including Guidelines with details about eligibility and selection criteria for the competitive grants process, will be made available on the Department of the Environment's website. The Department will make recommendations to the Minister on the suitability of grant applications, and the Minister (or Minister's delegate) will make a final, non-reviewable decision on the grant funding recipients. Once approved, information on individual grants will be published on the Department's website.

Payments will be made as part of Programme 1.4 Conservation of Australia's Heritage and Environment, described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.7, Environment Portfolio at page 52.

New table item 24 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide grant funding as part of its 2013 election commitment of $0.3 million to be provided to Zoos Victoria over two years to support the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Reintroduction Project in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia.

Zoos Victoria, a statutory authority under the Zoological Parks and Gardens Act 1995 (Vic), will be responsible for making payments through the Melbourne Zoo's international grants programme to the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Reintroduction Project. The project aims to rescue, rehabilitate and release orphaned and injured orangutans that are impacted upon by human-wildlife conflict. The project will support the release of approximately 60 orangutans back to the wild. This proposal also includes a 12 month follow-up monitoring programme of the released orangutans.

Funding of this project is consistent with subsection 303BA(1) of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 to promote the conservation of biodiversity in Australia and other countries to meet its obligations under the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Zoos Victoria will be required to submit a project proposal that will identify outcomes and delivery milestones, including:

* a progress report providing information on the success of the rehabilitation and details regarding the release of the 60 individuals; and

* the completion of a final report which will provide the results of the 12 month monitoring of the released individuals.

Following this process, the Minister will consider the suitability of the application and whether to approve the funding. The Government is providing financial assistance to an ongoing orangutan conservation programme. The recipient of the financial assistance has specialist expertise and extensive experience in orangutan rescue, rehabilitation and reintroduction practices. As a result, this project is not subject to external review.

Funding of $0.2 million and $0.1 million will be provided to Zoos Victoria over 2014-15 and 2015-16, respectively, through an agreement with the Australian Government's Department of the Environment. The project and expenditure decisions will be managed by Zoos Victoria Wildlife Conservation and Science team, in accordance with the agreement with the Department of the Environment. Further information will be made available on the Department of the Environment's website.

Payments will be made as part of Programme 1.5 Environmental Regulation, described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.7, Environment Portfolio at page 56.

New table item 25 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for continued delivery of the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility (NCCARF) at Griffith University to facilitate better climate risk management through research and capacity building. This measure delivers on the Government's election commitment.

The strategic objective of supporting the continued delivery of the NCCARF is to ensure that scientific evidence about the impacts of climate change generated by Australian Government investment is translated effectively and cost-efficiently into sound decision-making and practical action at the local and regional levels.

NCCARF will meet that objective by equipping national, regional and local decision-makers to make economically sensible, evidence-based decisions about when and what action is needed to manage climate risks. The continued delivery of the NCCARF will help to maintain the national capacity to understand and apply climate risk information, including through capability-building and decision tools.

Under a new funding agreement, NCCARF will be required to work with national science agencies and stakeholders to deliver a framework for understanding and managing coastal climate risks, including sea-level rise in the coastal zone. NCCARF will also synthesise and communicate research and maintain national adaptation research coordination and capacity building in priority areas (including human health, ecosystems, settlements and infrastructure). NCCARF's outputs will be explicitly positioned for voluntary adoption, and encourage an holistic approach balancing long-term social, environmental and economic outcomes.

The Minister for the Environment is responsible for decisions on funding for NCCARF. The Department of the Environment will issue grant guidelines and seek a proposal from the intended grant recipient, assess the proposal and make recommendations for the Minister for the Environment's final decision. The Government is proposing to provide a one-off grant to the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility. The programme guidelines do not provide for internal review of any funding decision, and there is no applicable legislation that provides for external merits review of such a decision.

Payments will be made as part of Programme 2.2 Adapting to Climate Change, described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.7, Environment Portfolio at page 70.

New table item 26 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to make grants totalling $2.1 million through the Solar Towns Programme to community groups, such as sports clubs, seniors' centres and scout groups, to support the installation of solar photovoltaic and solar hot water systems and reduce energy costs.

A total of $300,000 is allocated to each of the seven regions announced at the 2013 election. These broadly cover northern Adelaide, northern and central Tasmania, Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges (Victoria), the Surf Coast of Victoria, Mt Alexander Shire in the electorate of Bendigo, the City of Monash in Melbourne and southern Brisbane.

Information on the Solar Towns Programme will be made available on the Department of the Environment's website. This information will include the programme guidelines, which will outline the objective of the programme, the boundaries of the covered regions, selection criteria and how applications will be assessed. The programme will include a non-competitive stream for regions with specific projects announced at the 2013 election, and a competitive stream for the remaining funding. All projects will be required to meet the programme's selection criteria and compliance requirements.

The Department of the Environment will make recommendations for funding to the Minister for the Environment for a final, non-reviewable decision. Information on individual grants will be published on the Department's website.

Payments will be made as part of Programme 2.1 Reducing Australia's Greenhouse Gas Emissions, described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.7, Environment Portfolio at page 66.

New table item 27 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund the rural research and development corporations to undertake specific research projects.

This initiative will be supported by a four year, $100 million programme to enhance the profitability of agriculture, fisheries and forestry industries, and address particular high priority challenges within these industries. The funds will be administered by the Department of Agriculture and delivered through a competitive grants process. The decision-maker for expenditure under the programme will be the Minister for Agriculture. Further information on this initiative is available in the Minister for Agriculture's media release of 13 May 2014 and on the Department of Agriculture's website.

The funding will be available from 2014-15. Delivery will be on a competitive basis, to the rural research and development corporations in partnership with other agencies and/or experienced researchers and/or producer groups.

For each funding round, the government will release guidelines for the programme which will include priorities for the allocation of the funds. Applications will be assessed by an expert advisory panel, which will make recommendations to the Minister on which projects to fund. The scheme guidelines will outline the process by which an applicant can lodge a complaint. The complaint will be reviewed within the Department, and if no resolution is achieved, the applicant has the option to contact the Commonwealth Ombudsman.

Funding details are in Table 1.2 (at page 19) and Table 2.1 (at page 28) of the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.1, Agriculture Portfolio (A Competitive Agriculture Sector - boosting farm profits through rural research and development).

New table item 28 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide a rebate to small exporters for export registration charges.

The rebate will be for up to 50 per cent of export registration charges, to a maximum of $5,000, and will be available in 2014-15. The rebate will be applied to eligible small exporters only. A 'small exporter' will be a business with annual export business turnover of less than $10 million.

The item will also establish legislative authority for the Government to fund export projects for Australian exporters of meat, dairy, fish, egg, horticulture and grain products. The funding will be available for three years from 2015.

The purpose of the projects is to help improve market access for small exporters, particularly in terms of competitiveness and profitability in the international marketplace. Existing government-industry consultative committees will recommend suitable projects to the Minister for Agriculture, who will consult with the Minister for Finance in the decision-making process.

A total of $15 million has been allocated for the rebate for small exporters for export registration charges and these projects. The total available funding for projects will be $15 million less the amount spent on rebates in 2014-15. Further information on this initiative is available in the Minister for Agriculture's media release of 13 May 2014 and on the Department of Agriculture's website.

The projects will be administered by the Department of Agriculture in accordance with related departmental guidelines. The scheme guidelines will outline the process by which an applicant can lodge an appeal. The appeal will be reviewed within the department, and if no resolution is achieved, the applicant has the option to contact the Commonwealth Ombudsman.

Funding details are in Table 1.2, Part 1 of Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.1, Agriculture Portfolio at page 19.

New table item 29 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to meet its 2013 marine pest election commitment and undertake a review and strategic analysis of invasive marine species with a view to removal or eradication of marine pests.

This commitment will be supported by $5 million funding over four years, with a review to be undertaken in the first 12 months. The Terms of Reference for the review will be developed in consultation with jurisdictions and major industry groups. A report on the review outcomes will be completed and presented to the government during the 2014-15 financial year to meet the timeframe specified within the 'target invasive marine species' election commitment.

The review will deliver recommendations for actions by the Commonwealth Government to improve marine pest biosecurity. The majority of funding will, subject to Government agreement to the recommendations, be used to improve national marine biosecurity outcomes. External providers may be engaged to undertake components of the review and to give effect to its recommendations.

The programme's success will be measured by the extent to which the review's high priority recommendations for actions have been implemented in the final year of the programme. The programme will be administered by the Department of Agriculture.

The Government will be undertaking targeted, ad-hoc expenditure under this item based on the needs of the review. As a result, decisions in relation to this expenditure will not be subject to external review. Further information is available as part of The Coalition's policy for a More Competitive and Sustainable Fisheries Sector (August 2013).

Funding details for the review of invasive marine pests are contained in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.1, Agriculture Portfolio, at page 80, under the expenses for Programme 2.2 - Plant and Animal Health. The review of invasive marine pests is part of the 'A more competitive and sustainable fisheries sector' measure. Further detail about the measure is available in Budget Paper No. 2, Budget Measures 2014-15 at page 50.

New table item 30 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund activities that will support and promote sustainable fishing practices.

The funding available under this item will contribute to competitive and sustainable fisheries through actions and activities that:

* promote sustainable fishing practices;

* facilitate the collection of reliable recreational fishing data;

* ensure fishing practices are conducted in a safe environment;

* support and enhance the activities of those involved in both the recreational and commercial (including aquaculture) fishing sectors; and

* provide practical support to recreational and commercial fishing peak bodies to provide leadership to the sector and communicate sustainable practices.

Applications/proposals will be assessed by the Department, with spending decisions approved by the Minister for Agriculture. Decisions for funding will be made on a non-competitive basis to support department and government objectives. This does not preclude the Department of Agriculture from initiating a competitive process with guidelines that target specific outcomes.

Where a competitive process is adopted for certain expenditure, the Minister may, when approving the guidelines, delegate funding approval to a departmental official. Funding will be administered in accordance with Commonwealth grants requirements and related departmental guidelines. Spending decisions will be made public as required by these guidelines.

The Department of Agriculture will be responsible for managing implementation of activities. The Government will provide one-off grants to the national peak bodies of the recreation and commercial fishing sectors with the expectation that it will lead to the sectors becoming self-sustaining after four years. As a result, these grants are not subject to external review. Further information is available as part of The Coalition's policy for a More Competitive and Sustainable Fisheries Sector.

Funding details are in Table 2.1 (2014-15, programme 1.4, at page 26) and Contributions to Outcome 1, programme 1.4 (at page 42) of the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.1, Agriculture Portfolio.

New table item 31 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund a one year trial of the Early Language Learning Australia initiative for online language learning for children in a preschool programme.

The Early Language Learning Australia trial will ascertain the effectiveness of online language learning software, in a select range of languages, providing young children with early exposure to languages other than English. Children at up to 40 services providing an early childhood education programme will be participants in a one year trial of online foreign language learning in the 2015 calendar year.

All decisions for this trial programme, including the procurement of software and the evaluation report, will be made in accordance with the Commonwealth financial framework, including the Commonwealth Procurement Rules and the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997. As this trial will involve the one-off allocation of finite resources, it would not be suitable for merits review.

Further information on this initiative is available in the Minister for Education's media release of 13 May 2014. Further information about the programme is available on the Department of Education's website. This webpage also includes a fact sheet.

Total funding is capped at $9.8 million over the 2014-15 and 2015-16 financial years.

Funding details are described in Programme 1.4 of the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.5, Education Portfolio at pages 40 to42.

New table item 32 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund the Australian Student Prizes which consists of: the Australian Students Prize (Academic Prize) the Australian Vocational Student Prize (Vocational Prize) and the Australian Award for Skills Excellence in Schools (Skills Excellence Award). Prizes will only be awarded to students who have completed, or are completing, Year 12 for the year of nomination.

Five hundred Australian Student Prizes will be awarded by the Australian Government Minister for Education, on the basis of recommendations by the relevant State or Territory Minister with responsibility for school education. Prizes will also be awarded to International Baccalaureate Diploma Graduates who achieve the maximum international score of 45, which equates to the Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank of 99.95.

Five hundred Vocational Prizes and Skills Excellence Awards will be awarded by the Australian Government Minister for Education or the Assistant Minister for Education on the basis of assessments completed by independent assessment panels established following students being nominated by their schools.

All funding decisions for this measure will be made in accordance with the above selection process, the Department of Education's Chief Executive's Instructions and the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997. Given this grant programme will involve the allocation of finite resources (with each prize valued at $1,000) and the fact that individual students do not nominate themselves for the award and may not be aware they have been nominated, this grant programme would not be suitable for merits review.

Funding details are described in Programme expense 2.3 of the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.5, Education Portfolio at page 54.

New table item 33 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide benefits to certain Newstart Allowance, Youth Allowance and Parenting Payment recipients, in the form of payments of financial assistance to such persons to relocate to other areas of Australia to take up employment.

Under the programme, people who relocate to a regional area (whether from a metropolitan area or a regional area) will receive $6,000. Those who move to a metropolitan area from a regional area or, in certain circumstances from a metropolitan area, will receive $3,000. Families with dependent children will be provided with up to an additional $3,000.

Spending decisions for the programme will be made by employment service providers in accordance with programme guidelines, Employment Services Deed 2012-15 and the Disability Employment Services Deed. Existing employment service providers were selected through a competitive tender process in accordance with the Commonwealth Procurement Rules. Providers are subject to contractual arrangements with the Department which strictly govern the way in which they are required to conduct their services. If a person is not satisfied with a provider's decision under the programme, the person may seek internal review of the decision by the provider, or external review through the Department of Employment, the Department of Social Services and also the Commonwealth Ombudsman.

Given the existence of the above review mechanisms and the fact that this initiative is part of the broader package of employment services, it is not appropriate for this programme to be subject to judicial review under the Administrative Decisions (Judicial Review) Act 1977.

The programme is part of the Government's broader election commitment to increase employment participation and is referred to on page 5 of The Coalition's Policy to Increase Employment Participation, August 2013.

Funding for the programme is described in the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook 2013-14 at page 137.

New table item 34 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide benefits to unemployed persons under the Work for the Dole Programme.

This is an existing programme under which job seekers may be required to undertake certain work in order to remain qualified for certain income support payments such as the Newstart Allowance. The programme is designed to give unemployed persons the skills and attributes to meet the needs of prospective employers and provides technical and vocational guidance and training programmes to enable unemployed persons to realise their right to work under Article 6 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR).

Funding for the programme will maintain existing arrangements as well as introducing funding for a phasing-in of new arrangements in selected areas including new Work for the Dole Coordinators who will work in 18 selected areas to identify potential host organisations for Work for the Dole places and connect them to Job Services Australia providers. These arrangements are being brought in ahead of mandatory Work for the Dole for job seekers with mutual obligation requirements, which will be introduced as part of the reformed employment services model from 1 July 2015.

Spending decisions for Work for the Dole will be made by the Department of Employment following a competitive and open tender process, undertaken in accordance with the Commonwealth Procurement Rules, for the selection of at least 18 Work for the Dole Coordinators. Successful tenderers will be required to enter into contractual arrangements with the Commonwealth which will strictly govern their behaviour as Work for the Dole Coordinators and how they deal with Job Services Australia providers, job seekers and host organisations. In accordance with the Commonwealth Procurement Rules, tenderers will be provided with general feedback as to why they were unsuccessful against the selection criteria and as part of the tender process, alerted to the Department of Employment's complaints handling processes. If received, complaints would be referred to the Department's internal probity adviser.

As spending decisions under this initiative involve the allocation of finite resources and will be subject to the Commonwealth Procurement Rules as outlined above, it would not be appropriate for spending decisions for this programme to be subject to review under the Administrative Decisions (Judicial Review) Act 1977.

The Work for the Dole programme is part of the Government's broader election commitment to increase employment participation (see The Coalition's Policy to Increase Employment Participation, August 2013).

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.6, Employment Portfolio at page 28.

New table item 35 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund the Jobs, Land and Economy Programme under the Indigenous Advancement Strategy.

The Government has allocated funds over the period 2014-15 to 2017-18 to enable the provision of activities, assistance, infrastructure, research and services aimed at:

* getting Indigenous Australians into work;

* fostering Indigenous business; and/or

* assisting Indigenous people to generate economic and social benefits from effective management of their land.

This item makes provision for the funding of activities, assistance, infrastructure, research and services that promote the programme's objectives, including employment, training, participation and job-readiness initiatives, business support and economic development initiatives, supporting the pursuit and exercise of native title rights, and assistance and reforms to improve the effective use of Indigenous-owned land and resources.

Programme guidelines will be publicly available on the Department's website for the programmes under the Indigenous Advancement Strategy. The programme guidelines will also outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights will be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

The decision-maker for grants made under the Jobs, Land and Economy Programme is the Minister for Indigenous Affairs (or his delegate). The programme will be administered by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

Funding has been appropriated to Indigenous Advancement - Jobs, Land and Economy as described in the Table of the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.14, Prime Minister and Cabinet Portfolio at page 40.

New table item 36 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund the Children and Schooling Programme under the Indigenous Advancement Strategy.

The Government has allocated funds over the period 2014-15 to 2017-18 to enable the provision of activities, assistance, infrastructure, research and services aimed at:

* getting children to school;

* improving education outcomes; and/or

* supporting families to give children a good start in life.

This item makes provision for the funding of activities, assistance, infrastructure, research and services that promote the programme's objectives, including initiatives directed at increasing Indigenous school attendance and promoting improved educational outcomes, and initiatives which nurture, safeguard and educate Indigenous children and youth to ensure that they have the best pathways possible to prosperity and wellbeing. It may include early childhood, family and parenting support, early childhood education initiatives, youth engagement and education initiatives, including further education, and scholarships and educational support and assistance.

Funding has been appropriated to Indigenous Advancement - Children and Schooling as described in the Table of the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.14, Prime Minister and Cabinet Portfolio at page 42.

New table item 37 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund the Safety and Wellbeing Programme under the Indigenous Advancement Strategy.

The Government has allocated funds over the period 2014-15 to 2017-18 to enable the provision of activities, assistance, infrastructure, research and services aimed at:

* ensuring that the ordinary law of the land applies in Indigenous communities; and/or

* ensuring Indigenous people enjoy similar levels of physical, emotional and social wellbeing enjoyed by other Australians.

This item makes provision for the funding of activities, assistance, infrastructure, research and services that promote the programme's objectives, including initiatives which aim to enhance Indigenous community safety, including in the area of community safety and violence prevention, combating drug, alcohol and other substance misuse, food security, health, and social and emotional wellbeing initiatives, and providing support and access to legal services and justice, including interpreter services.

Funding has been appropriated to Indigenous Advancement - Safety and Wellbeing as described in the Table of the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.14, Prime Minister and Cabinet Portfolio at page 44.

New table item 38 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund the Culture and Capability Programme under the Indigenous Advancement Strategy.

The Government has allocated funds over the period 2014-15 to 2017-18 to enable the provision of activities, assistance, infrastructure, research and services aimed at:

* supporting Indigenous Australians to maintain their culture and participate equally in the economic and social life of the nation; and/or

* ensuring that Indigenous organisations are capable of delivering quality services to their clients.

This item would make provision for the funding of activities, assistance, infrastructure, research and services that promote the programme's objectives, including initiatives which:

* focus on acknowledging the unique place Indigenous people have in Australian society, including progress towards a referendum on constitutional recognition;

* give Indigenous people a strong and representative voice, including support for peak organisations, broadcasting and communications, and increasing public awareness of Indigenous cultures and Indigenous heritage protection; and

* build Indigenous capacity at the individual, family, community and organisational levels and which promote engagement and enhance Indigenous governance and leadership skills to maximise the chances of achieving real and sustainable change for the better.

Funding has been appropriated to Indigenous Advancement - Culture and Capability as described in the Table of the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.14, Prime Minister and Cabinet Portfolio at page 46.

New table item 39 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund the Remote Australia Strategies Programme under the Indigenous Advancement Strategy.

The Government has allocated funds over the period 2014-15 to 2017-18 to enable the provision of activities, assistance, infrastructure, research and services aimed at:

* strategic investments in local, flexible solutions based on community and Government priorities; and/or

* support for remote housing strategies.

This item makes provision for the funding of activities, assistance, infrastructure, research and services that promote the programme's objectives, including funding for infrastructure, housing, communication and essential services in remote Indigenous communities and funding for place-based and regional service delivery approaches such as Cape York Welfare Reform, the Alice Springs Transformation Plan and Empowered Communities. Place-based service delivery initiatives are holistic solutions designed to meet the needs of a particular community, and are developed in consultation with, and in many instances led by, the community. The initiatives being funded will address the Government's priorities under the Indigenous Advancement Strategy. The design and delivery of these initiatives will be tailored to respond to local issues and solve the problems on the ground, rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all solution.

Funding has been appropriated to Indigenous Advancement - Remote Australia Strategies as described in the Table of the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.14, Prime Minister and Cabinet Portfolio at page 48.

New table item 40 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Families and Children programme to support families, to improve the wellbeing of children and young people, to enhance family and community functioning, and to increase the participation of vulnerable people in community life.

This programme includes funding for:

* family law services which provide alternatives to formal legal processes for families who are separated, separating or in dispute to improve their relationships and make arrangements in the best interests of their children;

* family and relationship services to strengthen family relationships, prevent breakdown and ensure the wellbeing and safety of children through the provision of broad based counselling and education to families of different forms and sizes;

* the development and facilitation of a whole of community approach to support and enhance early childhood development and wellbeing for children from birth to 12 years;

* early intervention and prevention services and resources that are aimed at improving the development and wellbeing of children aged from birth to 12 years and supporting the capacity of those in a parenting role;

* community-based interventions for vulnerable young people who are at risk of disengaging with family and community, including those at risk of homelessness; and

* adult specialist support services to improve outcomes and enhance wellbeing for people adversely affected by past institutional and child welfare practices and policies.

Information to be made available on the Department of Social Services website will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

A media release was issued by the Minister for Social Services on 13 May 2014. Further information, including program information materials, is available on the Department of Social Services' website.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 9.

New table item 41 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Transition to Independent Living Allowance programme.

The Transition to Independent Living Allowance programme is designed to support young people exiting out-of-home care to meet some of the costs of moving from care to independent living, and to promote long-term economic and social stability. The programme includes providing funding support for the purchase of goods and services to support the young person's transition to independence; such as costs associated with securing stable accommodation, the purchase of essential household items or support to access education, training and transport.

The programme guidelines will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

The Transition to Independent Living Allowance programme guidelines, as well as information about programme eligibility and frequently asked questions, is available on to the Department of Social Services' website.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 98.

New table item 42 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Settlement Services programme.

The Settlement Services programme is designed to provide settlement support for humanitarian entrants and other eligible migrants in their first five years of life in Australia to become self-reliant and participate equitably in Australian society and to minimise longer term reliance on Commonwealth provided social services.

The programme includes funding for:

* humanitarian settlement services which deliver early practical support (during initial 6 to 12 months following arrival) for humanitarian entrants to become self-reliant and participate equitably in Australian society;

* complex case support services to eligible clients with complex needs in order to become self-reliant and participate equitably in Australian society;

* settlement services activities that deliver services to migrants and humanitarian entrants in their first five years in Australia;

* peak bodies involved in the settlement of persons who arrive in Australia;

* Australian Cultural Orientation (AUSCO) which provides pre-arrival orientation and information to eligible clients who have been granted a humanitarian visa;

* the Free Interpreting Service which provides free interpreting services to eligible organisations and individuals;

* the Free Translation Service which provides free translating services to facilitate translation of settlement related documents for eligible clients;

* the Commonwealth's contribution to the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) which sets and maintains national standards in translating and interpreting, supports the ongoing development of credentialed translators and interpreters, and supports Australian residents not fluent in English to access mainstream services; and

* research and stakeholder engagement, including funding national peak bodies and other stakeholder organisations.

Decisions to enter into arrangements or grants under the Settlement Services programme involve the allocation of finite resources and, as such, are not suitable for merits review because an overturned decision may affect an allocation that has already been made to another party. However, decisions to spend money under the Settlement Services programme are made subject to requirements in the Commonwealth financial framework, including the Commonwealth Grant Guidelines and the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997.

The review and audit process undertaken by the Australian National Audit Office also provides a mechanism to review Government spending decisions and report any concerns to the Parliament. These requirements and mechanisms help to ensure the proper use of Commonwealth resources, and appropriate transparency around decisions relating to making, varying or administering arrangements to spend public money.

Further, a person who is unhappy with a spending decision may have recourse to other administrative mechanisms including the scheme for Compensation for Detriment caused by Defective Administration, or making a complaint to the Ombudsman. Judicial review may also be available in some situations under section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903 and section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution.

A media release was issued by the Minister for Social Services on 13 May 2014. Further information, including programme information materials, is available on the Department of Social Services' website.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 98.

New table item 43 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Financial Wellbeing and Capability programme.

This programme aims to improve the financial knowledge, skills, capabilities and financial resilience of vulnerable individuals and families; alleviate the immediate impact of financial stress; progress initiatives in relation to problem gambling; and assist those at risk of homelessness.

The programme funds services including crisis support (emergency and food relief), financial capability building services, financial counselling, access to microfinance products, research and consultation and engagement activities to seek expert advice and inform the Commonwealth on issues relating to problem gambling. Examples of the services include Gambling Help Online, Gambling Research Australia, the Gambling Impact Society and the Industry Advisory Council on Gambling.

The Financial Wellbeing and Capability programme guidelines will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 98.

New table item 44 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Civil Society programme.

The Civil Society programme supports charities and non-government and not-for-profit organisations through education, training and fostering innovation to continue to focus on their work in the community, to foster a culture of philanthropic giving, cross-sector partnering, volunteering and corporate social responsibility, and to help build a strong civil society.

The programme funds measures such as support for peak community organisations, sponsorship activities, informed research and innovation, policy development, information sharing, new pilots and trials of service models, and evaluations.

The Civil Society programme guidelines will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 98.

New table item 45 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Families and Communities Service Improvement programme to support and encourage the continuous improvement of Commonwealth funded social services.

The Families and Communities Service Improvement programme would achieve this by providing funding to support peak community organisations and for sponsorship activities, informed research and innovation, policy development, information sharing as well as new pilots and trials of service models and evaluations.

The Families and Communities Service Improvement programme guidelines will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 98.

New table item 46 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Strengthening Communities programme. The Strengthening Communities programme is designed to strengthen communities and promote inclusion and participation in community life, including by providing funding to organisations to develop solutions and deliver responsive and integrated services that meet local community needs.

The programme includes funding for:

* research and stakeholder engagement and funding to national peak bodies and other stakeholder organisations;

* the Multicultural Affairs activity which includes grants aimed at building socially cohesive Australian communities by supporting projects that build the long-term capacities of higher need and at-risk communities, including through the promotion of stronger community relations and the development of sustainable community partnerships;

* building socially inclusive communities, which aims to empower local communities to embrace the benefits of multiculturalism and maintain cohesive and socially inclusive neighbourhoods. These measures include Community Hubs, Empowering Local Communities, Building Multicultural Communities and language translation services; and

* community development and participation including assisting seniors to increase their access to information and community resources, and support for volunteering activity in the community.

The Strengthening Communities programme guidelines will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 98.

New table item 47 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the National Initiatives programme.

The National Initiatives programme is designed to achieve positive outcomes for families, women and their children by working across sectors to improve the safety and wellbeing of children, advancing gender equality and reducing violence against women and children.

The National Initiatives programme's priority areas include reducing violence against women and supporting women affected by violence, support for trafficked people, and includes communication and information designed to change violence supportive attitudes and effectively reduce the incidence and impact of violence in Australia. Other priority areas include reducing child abuse and neglect and funding research and stakeholder organisations to assist in making 'protecting children' everyone's business.

The National Initiatives programme guidelines will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 98.

New table item 48 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Housing and Homelessness Service Improvement and Sector Support programme.

The Housing and Homelessness Service Improvement and Sector Support programme is intended to fund homelessness prevention initiatives to reduce the impact of homelessness, and activities which improve housing affordability.

Initiatives funded under this programme include research and activities of peak bodies. The funding aims to:

* build the research base for effective policy that addresses homelessness and housing affordability over the long term;

* identify best practice models, which can be promoted and replicated, that will enhance existing housing and homelessness policies and programmes;

* build the capacity of the community sector to improve linkages and networks; and

* raise awareness of housing, housing affordability and homelessness issues at all levels of government and across the community.

The Housing and Homelessness Service Improvement and Sector Support programme guidelines will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 132.

New table item 49 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Disability Employment programme.

The Disability Employment programme is designed to help individuals with injury, disability or a health condition to secure and maintain sustainable open employment by:

* providing medical and dental services and unemployment, pharmaceutical, hospital and sickness benefits; or

* engaging in measures to meet Australia's obligations in relation to persons with disability, in particular those under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

The Disability Employment programme guidelines will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 140.

New table item 50 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Employment Assistance and Other Services programme.

The Employment Assistance and Other Services programme is designed to support employers to employ people with disability.

The Employment Assistance programme guidelines will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

Funding details for the Employment Assistance and Other Services programme are on page 140 of the Portfolio Additional Estimates Statements 2013-14, Social Services Portfolio. Details regarding deliverables for the Employment Assistance and Other Services programme are shown on page 141 of the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 141.

New table item 51 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Disability and Carer Support programme.

The Disability and Carer Support programme is designed to improve access, support and services for people with disability and carers, by providing and improving access to services and support through stakeholder engagement and sector development. The programme includes funding:

* for services and support for carers including services to support carers aged 25 and under;

* for support and services including funding for people with disability and carers to participate in fora; and

* to support a robust sector to meet the needs of people with disability and carers, including for the delivery of appropriate and timely advocacy for people with disability and carers that addresses instances of abuse, discrimination and neglect.

The Disability and Carer Support programme guidelines will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

Funding and deliverable for the programme are described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at pages 140 and 141, respectively.

New table item 52 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Disability and Carer Service Improvement and Sector Support programme.

The Disability and Carer Service Improvement and Sector Support programme is designed to provide opportunities for people with a disability, carers, policy makers, researchers, national organisations, service providers, business and community organisations to undertake work to improve the lives of people with disability and carers.

These will be delivered through grants focused on one or all of the following objectives:

* sector development;

* stakeholder engagement;

* service improvement; and

* sponsorship activities.

The Disability and Carer Service Improvement and Sector Support programme guidelines will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 140.

New table item 53 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Community Mental Health programme.

The Community Mental Health programme is designed to provide early intervention and other support through community-based initiatives for people with mental illness, their families and carers, so that they can develop their capabilities, increase their wellbeing and actively participate in community and economic life. The support includes:

* assistance for people severely impacted by a mental illness, including services with an employment focus for those who have employment as a primary goal;

* early intervention support to vulnerable families with children and young people who are showing early signs of, or are at risk of developing, mental illness;

* a range of flexible support options for carers and families of people with severe mental illness; and

* mental health promotion, education and advocacy.

The Community Mental Health programme guidelines will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 140.

New table item 54 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Transitioning programme.

The NDIS Transitioning programme is designed to improve the wellbeing and social and economic participation of people with disability, and their families and carers, by building a National Disability Insurance Scheme.

The programme includes funding for existing support that, over time, will be provided under the National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013, including:

* the Better Start for Children with Disability initiative and the Helping Children with Autism package, to provide children with early access to early intervention services;

* supported employment services to enable people with disability to participate fully in employment;

* Outside School Hours Care for Teenagers with Disability;

* Respite Support for Carers of Young People with Severe or Profound Disability which provides immediate and short term respite for carers of young people with severe or profound disability whose needs are not being met through existing government initiatives; and

* Young Carers Respite and Information Services which assists young carers who need support to complete their secondary education or vocational equivalent due to the demands of their caring role.

The NDIS Transitioning programme is not generally subject to a process of external review because these are separate supports that currently operate outside of the NDIS. Once transitioned, these services will form part of the NDIS which is broadly subject to a process of external merits review as provided by the National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013.

Funding and deliverables for the programme are described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at pages 144 and 146, respectively.

New table item 55 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Stronger Relationships trial programme to provide up to 100,000 couples with $200 towards relationship education and counselling provided by authorised family and relationship services.

Couples can be engaged, married, in a de facto or a same-sex relationship and education and counselling can include conflict resolution, parenting and financial management. The aim is to increase the number of couples who participate in education or counselling in order to strengthen their marriage or relationship.

Strong relationships between parents make a substantial difference to a child. Australian research also consistently finds that marriage and relationship education assists committed, married, engaged or cohabiting couples to move through the phases of their relationship with improved relationship skills, strengthening relationships for up to five years. Early intervention and prevention of divorce and relationship breakdown can also reduce direct service costs to the Government of responding to divorce and relationship breakdown.

The Stronger Relationships trial programme guidelines will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal, which will include the option to refer matters to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to ad-hoc or targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Where funds are allocated under a competitive selection process, such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

A media release was issued by the Minister for Social Services on 13 May 2014. A Budget Fact Sheet for Stronger Relationships is available on the Department of Social Services' website.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 33.

New table item 56 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the Young Carer Bursary programme to provide benefits to students through the payment of bursaries to caregivers who are aged 25 and under, and who are currently enrolled in secondary school or in tertiary education.

The Young Carer Bursary programme will assist young carers aged 25 years and under to continue to study and to relieve the financial pressure for them to undertake part-time work in addition to their educational and caring responsibilities. One hundred and fifty annual bursaries valued at up to $10,000 will be available and will be targeted to those young carers in the greatest need.

The Young Carer Bursary programme will outline details of applicants' rights of appeal. Internal merits review is not applicable in respect of decisions made in relation to targeted funding given the non-competitive nature of the funding. Such decisions are not considered suitable for merits review given the limited allocation of funding available. Nevertheless, judicial review rights may be available under section 75(v) of the Australian Constitution or section 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903.

A media release was issued by the Assistant Minister for Social Services on 14 March 2014.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.15A, Social Services Portfolio at page 34.

New table item 57 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund the establishment of Primary Health Networks that will work to integrate the care of patients across the health system, and improve health outcomes for communities.

Primary Health Networks will establish Clinical Councils and local Consumer Advisory Committees that are aligned to Local Hospital Networks in order to ensure the primary health care and the acute care sectors work together to improve patient care. Primary Health Networks will be clinically-focused and responsible for improving patient outcomes in their geographical area by ensuring that services across the primary, community and specialist sectors align and work together in patients' interests. Primary Health Networks will actively engage General Practitioners, health professionals and the community through local level structures to identify and respond to local health priorities, establish care pathways and monitor the quality and performance of services. A key focus of the Primary Health Networks will be working collaboratively with Local Hospital Networks to reduce hospital admissions and re-admissions.

Primary Health Networks will be established through an open and competitive tender process in readiness for operation from 1 July 2015. Guidelines will be available publicly. The Department of Health has a complaints mechanism for grants and funding processes which is provided publicly on the internet at: http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main

/publishing.nsf/Content/pfps-complaintsprocedures. Applicants are also able to seek review from the Commonwealth Ombudsman. No further merits review is provided for given these available avenues for review.

The funding is under the Department of Health's Outcome 5: Primary Health Care, Programme 5.1: Primary Care Financing Quality and Access. Further detail is available in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.10, Health Portfolio at page 107.

New table item 58 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund the Australian Drug Foundation for the Good Sports Programme, an initiative that provides free support to sporting clubs to change their culture and reduce high risk drinking.

The programme aims to support sporting club committees as they progressively change the way alcohol is managed on the club's grounds and in associated club events. The Good Sports Programme involves over 5,000 community sporting clubs across every State and Territory and reaches over 1.5 million Australians.

Funding of $19 million over four years was included in the 2014-15 Budget. As the funding is provided to the Australian Drug Foundation to assist in its work, merits review of the funding is not applicable.

The funding is under the Department of Health's Outcome 1: Population Health, Programme 1.2: Drug Strategy. Further detail is available in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.10, Health Portfolio at page 56.

New table item 59 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding support to Life Saving Australia, the Royal Life Saving Society - Australia and AUSTSWIM in their efforts to reduce drowning deaths and promote water safety.

These organisations have a long history of undertaking water safety activities. The Government will provide support for initiatives to improve water safety among community groups known to miss out, as well as groups in high risk areas of population increase. The Government will also work with key stakeholders to provide funding for surf lifesaving clubs to purchase rescue equipment, first aid and medical supplies. Merits review of the funding is not applicable, as the funding is being provided to the key organisations which have a long history of undertaking water safety activities.

Funding of $15 million over five years was included in the 2014-15 Budget. The provision of funding for water safety is in line with the election commitments in The Coalition's Policy to Reduce Drownings (August 2013).

The funding is under the Department of Health's Outcome 10: Sport and Recreation, Programme 10.1: Sport and Recreation. Further detail is available in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.10, Health Portfolio at pages 167 and 169.

New table item 60 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide funding for the supply of uniquely Australian antivenoms, Q fever vaccine and pandemic influenza vaccines.

Access to an assured supply of antivenoms, Q fever and pandemic influenza vaccine is a critical Australian health protection priority. These products are required to minimise morbidity and mortality to protect the health of all Australians. Without access to these essential medicines it is anticipated that the rates of hospitalisation, chronic illness and deaths would increase. In the event of an influenza pandemic, vaccination remains the best form of protection and arrangements to secure Australian supplies must be in place in advance of any threat of a pandemic.

The Government will approach the market to ensure continued supply of these items in a cost effective manner. In 2014-15, the Government will test the global market for the guaranteed timely supply of these key products, ahead of the expiry of current supply arrangements in 2016.

The Department of Health has a complaints mechanism for funding processes which is provided publicly on the internet at: http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf

/Content/pfps-complaintsprocedures. Applicants are also able to seek review from the Commonwealth Ombudsman. No further merits review is provided for given these available avenues for review.

The funding is under the Department of Health's Outcome 9: Biosecurity and Emergency Response, Programme 9.1: Health Emergency Planning and Response. Further detail for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.10, Health Portfolio at page 163.

New table item 61 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide grants of financial assistance through the Community Development Grants Programme to support needed infrastructure, including the construction and upgrade of local community and sports infrastructure facilities, that promotes stable, secure and viable economies in Australia's regions.

The Commonwealth has allocated $314.15 million to the Community Development Grant Fund from 2013-14 to 2016-17 for grants of financial assistance to a person. These grants will be made on conditions imposed under the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 and the Financial Management and Accountability Regulations 1997.

The Community Development Grants Programme is not a competitive grants programme. Only projects identified by the Australian Government will be considered including the Government's 2013 election commitments and Government selected uncontracted projects from the former Regional Development Australia Fund and Community Infrastructure Grant Programme. Grant details and guidelines will be publicly available in accordance with the Commonwealth Grant Guidelines. The Government is providing one-off grant funding to a large number of projects that have been selected by the Government for funding subject to them meeting the value for public money test. As a result, the establishment of these projects is not subject to external review.

The Community Development Grants Programme was announced by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, the Hon Warren Truss MP and the Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, the Hon Jamie Briggs MP, on 4 December 2013.

Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.13, Infrastructure and Regional Development Portfolio at page 77.

New table item 62 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to provide grants of financial assistance through the National Stronger Regions Fund for infrastructure to improve liveability and drive economic growth.

Projects to be funded will be selected according to a competitive, merit-based process for grants of between $20,000 and $10 million.

The Commonwealth has allocated $1 billion to the National Stronger Regions Fund from 2015-16 to 2019-20 for grants of financial assistance. These grants will be made on conditions imposed under the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 and the Financial Management and Accountability Regulations 1997.

The National Stronger Regions Fund will fund priority infrastructure across Australia's regions to improve liveability and drive economic growth. A particular focus will be on projects located in disadvantaged areas.

The National Stronger Regions Fund will be delivered in accordance with the Commonwealth Grant Guidelines. Guidelines for the programme will be publicly available and will set out the eligibility and merit criteria, the process of assessment, and arrangements to meet a value-for-money test. The grant recipient, which must be an eligible organisation, will submit an application form and supporting documentation, and will have responsibility for delivering the funded project, including complying with all milestones set out in the Funding Agreement. Details of grants provided under the National Stronger Regions Fund will be publicly available on the website of the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development.

The Guidelines for the National Stronger Regions Fund will provide for a review of decisions on the application and assessment process. Where requested, the review will be conducted by an officer of the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development who is completely independent of the programme.

The Government's commitment to the National Stronger Regions Fund was reaffirmed by the Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Warren Truss MP, on 30 April 2014. Funding for the programme is described in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.13, Infrastructure and Regional Development Portfolio at page 77.

Commonwealth Numbered Regulations - Explanatory Statements

New table item 3 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund the Orygen Youth Health Research Centre to establish and operate the National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health.

The funding is under the Department of Health's Outcome 5: Primary Health Care, Programme 5.4: Mental Health. Further detail of the Centre is available in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.10, Health Portfolio at page 114.

New table item 57 establishes legislative authority for the Commonwealth Government to fund the establishment of Primary Health Networks that will work to integrate the care of patients across the health system, and improve health outcomes for communities.

The funding is under the Department of Health's Outcome 5: Primary Health Care, Programme 5.1: Primary Care Financing Quality and Access. Further detail is available in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No. 1.10, Health Portfolio at page 107.