Client Liaison
Summary of Events

ESCG and SSCG Meetings

During the March quarter, the ABS held meetings with clients from State Government agencies.

The Economic Statistics Consultative Group met on 15 February and listened to presentations from Phil Smythe and Mike Thomas on WA’s recent CPI and International Trade trends. At this meeting, Elspeth Wilson was appointed as the new chair person, taking over from Ian Hafekost.

The Social Statistics Consultative Group met on 2 March and included presentations on the pathways of education for 15-24 year olds from Fay Agathangelou and on the 2008 Child Health Survey by Professor Steve Zubrick from the Telethon Institute of Child Health Research.

These meetings provide a great opportunity to share information on ABS developments and initiatives being undertaken by clients.

Supplementary Surveys

The 2006 State Supplementary Survey on ‘Domestic Use of Water and Energy’ was enumerated in October 2006. The data is expected to be released in April 2007.

Development of the 2007 State Supplementary Survey ‘Community Preparedness for Emergencies’ is continuing. Cognitive testing of new questions has been completed and a pilot test was held in March 2007. Further development of the survey is being undertaken based on the results of the pilot test.

State Government agencies are urged to consider submitting topic proposals for the 2008 State Supplementary survey. Letters inviting submissions will be sent to State Government agencies in April.

For further information regarding State Supplementary Surveys, please contact Cal Hoad on (08) 9360 5947.

ABS Awareness

Margaret Garner, Western Australia’s Information Skills Manager, visited Geraldton last November where she conducted ABS awareness and web site training at the Mid-West Conference for Regional Librarians.

Librarians from surrounding areas including Badgingarra, Three Springs and Wiluna met to discuss their experiences and keep up to date with new developments. Vicki Carlyon (State Library of WA) also attended to provide training and to catch up.

It was a great day, and fantastic to meet people who provide such valuable service to their clients in remote and rural communities.

There was overall appreciation of the revamped ABS web site and applause for the Free Statistics on the Web initiative. Special thanks to Andrea for arranging the day.