AR-2010-2011 - Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine

Transcription

Victorian Institute of
Forensic Medicine
Annual Report 2010/2011
SERVING THE COURTS
CONNECTING WITH THE COMMUNITY
ii
Forensic Medicine
Annual Report 2010/11
Report of Operations –
Accountable Officer’s
Declaration
In accordance with Financial Management Act 1994, I
am pleased to present the Report of Operations for the
Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine for the year ending
30 June 2011.
Stephen Cordner
Director
1
VIFM Annual Report 2010/11 Connecting With the Community
Contents
OVERVIEW
Report of Operations – Accountable Officer’s Declaration
inside front cover
Who We Are
2
Chairman’s Report
4
Director’s Report
6
Obituaries and Tributes
9
OUR SERVICES
12
Medico-Legal Death Investigation Services
16
Clinical Forensic Medicine Service
24
Forensic Scientific Services
28
Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria
34
Department of Forensic Medicine (Monash University)
38
National Coronial Information System (NCIS)
43
International Program
44
46
Administration Support Services
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
54
55
Our Governance
The Institute Council
55
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
63
Legislative and Statutory Reporting
66
70
Risk Attestation
APPENDICES
71
Appendix A: Publications
71
Appendix B: Presentations and Abstracts
74
Appendix C: Committees
83
Appendix D: VIFM Staff by Department
85
Appendix E: VIFM Contract Staff
88
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
89
2
Who We Are
We are committed to making our community a safer
place to live.
As Australia’s most comprehensive forensic medical
centre, the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine serves
the community and the courts.
Our statutory responsibilities are to provide independent,
expert forensic medical and scientific services to the
justice system, tissue for transplantation, to teach and to
undertake research.
The VIFM provides the justice system with evidence to
underpin safe convictions and appropriate acquittals.
Its doctors help investigate deaths reported to the
Coroner, examine alleged offenders and assess, treat and
support victims of crime.
The Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria supports patients and
their families by providing safe tissues for transplantation
and medical research.
As part of Monash University, the Department of Forensic
Medicine teaches and conducts forensic medical,
scientific and public health focused injury research often in
collaboration with international organisations.
Our Legislation
The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine is a statutory
authority established by the Victorian Institute of Forensic
Medicine Act 1985 (VIFM Act 1985). It operates under
the auspices of the Department of Justice, reporting
to Parliament through the Attorney-General, the
Hon Robert Clark.
The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine Act 1985
provides the main statutory framework for the Institute’s
operations, setting out its objects, functions, powers and
other requirements. The Coroners Act 2008 provides
further legislative requirements for our role as medical
investigators undertaking autopsies and other medical
and scientific examinations to assist coroners.
The Human Tissue Act 1982 sets the rules under which
the Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria (DTBV) undertakes
its work. Compliance with the Therapeutic Goods Act
1989 also underpins the operation of the DTBV. The Act
also regulates the donation and retrieval of human tissue
before and after death, prohibits the trading in human
tissue and gives a legal definition of death.
Our Vision
We will be recognised for excellence in what we do.
Our Mission
Underpinned by ethical principles, our purpose is to:
• provide independent forensic medical services to the
Victorian public and justice system
• contribute more broadly to community health and
safety (of communities in Australia and overseas)
• increase knowledge through teaching and research
and
• enable the provision of high quality human tissue
grafts for transplantation.
“
Veritas Omnia Vincit – Truth Conquers All
3
We respect all people, our history, our calling and the law.
Openness
We are open minded. We are open to each other, and
open to knowledge and learning.
Service
We provide services for the community that are
dedicated, responsive and client focused.
Integrity
We will be beyond reproach. We commit to truth,
confidentiality, impartiality and accountability.
We commit to systems that are secure, reliable,
accurate, valid and safe.
Innovation
We are creative and curious. We are not afraid to
do things differently. We will continue our search for
knowledge and truth.
Our Working Relationships
The Institute’s success depends on the strength of
our partnerships and our working relationships with
those to whom we report and with whom we work,
including: the Attorney-General, courts including the
Coroners Court of Victoria (CCOV), the Department of
Justice, Monash University, the University of Melbourne,
the Australian Federal Police (AFP), Victoria Police,
public and private hospitals.
The legislation under which the Institute is established,
and the mission which guides its strategic direction,
require the VIFM to undertake teaching and research
in forensic medicine and related scientific disciplines,
including tissue banking. Academic activities in forensic
medicine and related disciplines are fundamental to the
VIFM’s credibility in the courts, the justice system and its
standing in the medical and scientific environment.
Our Strategic Goals
The Institute’s five year strategic plan 2008–12 sets out
four key goals which are fundamental to achieving our
vision and delivering our mission. The four goals are:
1. Improve provision of quality forensic and scientific
services and access to human tissue
2.Ensure a highly trained forensic, medical, scientific and
technical workforce
3. Increase VIFM’s research output, with an emphasis on
death and injury prevention and public health and
4. Secure a sustainable future for the Donor Tissue Bank
of Victoria.
Further information can be found in the VIFM Strategic
Plan on the VIFM website: www.vifm.org
ct . open
e
n
sp
es
s . ser vice
tion .
a
v
o
re
n
n
Respect
Our Role in Teaching, Training and
Research
r
nteg ity . i
.i
Our Core Values
4
Chairman’s Report
“
The reputation of the Institute was considerably enhanced by the manner in
which its members efficiently and sensitively accomplished the task of identifying
the victims of the recent Victorian bushfires. This expertise has been made
available internationally for example, in East Timor, Solomon Islands, Indonesia
and Thailand.
The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine has been
serving the community for almost 25 years. It is no idle
boast to assert that it is one of the leading institutes in the
international world of forensic medicine.
One of the unique features of the VIFM is the diversity of
its operations.
As a provider of objective, independent, expert evidence
on medical and scientific matters, the Institute has
acquired the confidence of the Courts. I can speak
personally of the views of my colleagues on the
Supreme Court, including those of the Chief Justice.
The presentation of expert evidence to the Courts in the
area of Medico-Legal Death Investigation, and in cases
of physical and sexual assault, is perhaps the principal
activity of the Institute.
The VIFM also serves the community in Disaster
Victim Identification. The reputation of the Institute was
considerably enhanced by the manner in which its
members efficiently and sensitively accomplished the
task of identifying the victims of the recent Victorian
bushfires. This expertise has been made available
internationally for example, in East Timor, Solomon
Islands, Indonesia and Thailand.
The Institute houses the Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria
with its capacity to improve the quality of life of the living,
with tissues for transplantation provided by the dead.
A team of specialist doctors and nurses make up the
Clinical Forensic Medicine section of the Institute. Their
work includes being on call to assess the injuries of
victims of sexual and other assaults.
The commitment of the Institute to teaching and research
is another aspect of its service to the community. In the
last 10 years, scientific papers, conference presentations
and the publication of specialist books have totalled
in excess of 500 – an extraordinary achievement. This
academic output underpins the rationale for the Institute
being the appropriate organisation to operate the National
Coronial Information System, as it has since its inception
for 10 years.
In addition to its role teaching local medical students and
graduates, the VIFM is assisting developing countries
to establish forensic capabilities. In partnership with the
Australian Federal Police it has undertaken a workshop
in East Timor on forensic evidence and a forum for
African Forensic Pathologists in Botswana. It is now in
the process of training African doctors. Forensic dental
training in the United Arab Emirates, and a programme on
sexual violence in Namibia for African clinicians, are recent
activities. Further international programmes are in the
planning phase.
The essential independence of the Institute is derived
from its status as a statutory body governed by a highpowered Council comprising judges, leading bureaucrats,
the Deans of the Melbourne and Monash medical
schools, and an Assistant Commissioner of Police.
Another significant factor in sustaining the Institute’s
activities over the period of its existence has been the
provision of adequate government funding.
The fact is that Victorian governments of both political
persuasions have supported the work of this Institute and that
support ought to be acknowledged. I would particularly like to
mention the initiatives of successive Attorney-Generals:
• The Honourable Jim Kennan, who, at the urging of Chief
Justice John H Phillips and Professor Vernon Plueckhahn,
established the Institute
• The Honourable Jan Wade, who not only expanded the
Institute to include Clinical Forensic Medicine, but also
provided considerable funds for the VIFM to establish and
develop the National Coronial Information System and
• The Honourable Rob Hulls who obtained the funding
to redevelop the premises housing the Institute and the
Coroners Court of Victoria.
The Institute welcomes the support of the new AttorneyGeneral of Victoria, The Honourable Robert Clark, who, in
April 2011 launched the new VIFM website with its modern
and comprehensive showcasing of the organisation through
textual references and YouTube presentations.
In the past year, a number of individuals have made important
contributions to the operation of the Institute. Once again
the members of the Council have selflessly devoted their
valuable time to ensure that the VIFM continues to perform
its statutory functions for the benefit of the community. The
considerable work of Professor Bob Conyers as Chair of the
Executive & Finance and the Audit & Risk committees should
be acknowledged, as should that of Mari-Ann Scott, the Chief
Operating Officer.
During the reporting period Associate Professor David Ranson
and Dr Noel Woodford each ably occupied the position
of Acting Director for 6 months (while Professor Stephen
Cordner was undertaking an Outside Studies Programme).
Some of the challenges that they faced are canvassed in the
Director’s Report. The Institute also benefited from the support
of the Department of Justice – in particular the Secretary of the
Department – Penny Armytage and Louise Glanville, Executive
Director, Legal and Equity. We look forward to working with
the incoming Executive Director, Marisa De Cicco who took
up her role in mid-June.
The lifeblood of any organisation is its staff. The success
of the VIFM has been built upon the efforts of the current
staff and their predecessors. It is the staff who perform the
post mortems, the medical examinations, the dental and
anthropological investigations and who conduct the scientific
tests. They frequently undertake these vital tasks with time
constraints, and in the knowledge that their opinions and the
results of their tests may be publicly scrutinised in the Courts.
It is well and truly time that the public was made aware of the
skill that members of this Institute bring to their work and the
pride they take in it. Those who view the 21st century website
of the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine will be left in no
doubt that its members are dedicated to serving the Victorian
community, a task more skilfully achieved because of service
also nationally and internationally.
The Hon John Coldrey QC
Chairman
5
6
Director’s Report
“
This year has seen further advances in the area of ‘cold case’ investigation with
provision of funding from Victoria Police to Forensic and Scientific Services for
collection of DNA samples from relatives of missing individuals and analysis in
our molecular biology laboratory.
The last year has been particularly important for the
Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine. The substantial
investment made by the government in forensic
medical services has started to be realised with the
commencement of the major redevelopment of the
Institute’s premises in Southbank. A building project of
this scale, taking place in premises that are continuously
being used to serve the community, takes considerable
coordination. The Institute is very grateful for the work of
the project steering group of the Department of Justice
which is overseeing this project and we would particularly
like to thank Ms Vicky Winship who is coordinating the
building project for the Institute and ensuring that we are
able to continue functioning during this very busy time.
Professor Stephen Cordner has been away on an
Outside Studies Programme over the past year and the
role of Director has been shared by Associate Professor
David Ranson and Dr Noel Woodford. This has been a
particularly busy year for us with major changes underway
not only in the building in which we work but in regards to
the operational aspects of our work with Victoria Police,
health care agencies and the courts. This Annual Report is
testament to the very large range of activities the Institute
carries out on behalf of the community in supporting both
our health care and justice systems. We would encourage
you to visit the Institute’s new website (www.vifm.org),
which was launched by the Attorney General in April
2011 to gain a further understanding of the wide range of
services we provide in Victoria and in other jurisdictions.
The work of our Clinical Forensic Medicine service
has undergone a major review this year. Laboratory
and hospital-style quality systems have been integrated
into Clinical Forensic Medicine. This has allowed the
Institute to collaborate with the National Association
of Testing Authorities (NATA) in moving towards the
development of common national standards for clinical
forensic medical services in Australia. Sexual assault
services in Victoria are undergoing a review in particular
with regard to the availability of high quality premises
in which our patients are examined. This has involved
reorganisation of the Forensic Nursing Service and
investigation of the appropriate facilities that are required
for sexual assault centres.
The Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria has undertaken a
business review and at the same time has provided a
submission to the state’s Legislative Council enquiry into
organ donation. The Institute’s building redevelopment
has been a major challenge for the tissue bank. The
laboratories and storage facilities have had to be moved
and the new locations recommissioned to comply with
national quality standards for the provision of safe tissues
for transplantation. During the year Dr Marisa Herson
decided to step down from her role as the Head of the
Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria for personal reasons and
in order to pursue a wider range of tissue transplant
activities, both in Victoria and nationally. We wish her well
in these pursuits and would like to thank her sincerely
for the commitment she displayed in one of the very
demanding roles at the Institute. The successful grant of
$13M from the Commonwealth for the new DTBV facility
stands as a testament to this.
The Forensic Pathology service has instigated a major
review of its case management system aimed at
improving the efficiency of the service we offer to the
Coroners Court of Victoria and Victoria Police. The
Courtlink project at the Coroners Court of Victoria has
also involved a review of operations within the Forensic
Pathology Service which we believe will be of great
benefit to the Victorian community. Pathologists have met
with senior police within the homicide squad and state
forensic science services to improve the way in which we
undertake investigations at death scenes with regard to
trace evidence collection and security.
We have been fortunate in being able to recruit new
forensic pathology staff from the United Kingdom, New
Zealand, and the United States of America. It is very
satisfying to know that we are a centre that is able to
attract experienced and enthusiastic forensic pathologists
to come and work with us. Over the year we have been
able to assist the Coroners Court of Victoria in dealing
with many of the complicated cases involving deaths in
the setting of medical treatment. And we have assisted
in providing a new range of services in this area which
is increasing the efficiency of these death investigations.
This work has enormous benefits to the community as it
provides healthcare agencies with critical information that
enables them to improve patient care and safety in their
own organisations.
This year has seen further advances in the area of ‘cold
case’ investigation with provision of funding from Victoria
Police to Forensic and Scientific Services for collection
of DNA samples from relatives of missing individuals
and analysis in our molecular biology laboratory.
These endeavours have so far resulted in the positive
identification of one previously unidentified person.
The toxicology laboratory has consolidated its work with
Victoria Police in the identification of drugs in injured
drivers and continues to play an important role in the
provision of an overnight toxicology service in support
of our preliminary examination of deceased individuals
admitted to the Institute.
Over the year the Institute has been privileged to receive
visitors from around the world. Dentists and Forensic
Pathologists from the United Arab Emirates have visited
the Institute looking at the ability for training provision
and to undertake a number of the experience-based
training programs that we offer. We have had visitors from
Israel, China, India, Malaysia, Argentina, Singapore and
Indonesia and currently have a Swiss lawyer visiting us
exploring the impact of virtual autopsy on the legal system.
We continue to support forensic anthropology work
in East Timor in association with the Argentinian
Forensic Anthropology Team and to provide training for
pathologists from Sri Lanka. Professor Stephen Cordner
became the patron of the African Forensic Medicine
Network, which is helping to bring forensic pathologists
7
8
together across the African continent and is working
to set standards and improve training in many African
countries. Specialists from the VIFM, with support from
the Australian Federal Police, conducted a workshop in
Sexual Violence in Namibia. The Department of Forensic
Medicine at Monash University will soon be hosting
candidates from Kenya, Uganda and Nigeria into the
Masters in Forensic Medicine Program.
In keeping with our theme of supporting and working
with the community, the Institute played a major part in
the Royal College of Pathologist’s open public forum
on pathology and forensic pathology held at the Old
Melbourne Gaol. There we were able to demonstrate to
the public at large the work of forensic pathology and
its contribution to justice and the health and welfare of a
community in Victoria. This was extremely well attended
and demonstrated the interest of the community in the
work we do.
were all very disappointed at the behaviour of the
individual involved. We have taken the opportunity to
reflect on how we secure the information entrusted to us,
and look after the privacy of those involved. We would
like to emphasise that no criminal or coronial investigation
was interfered with by virtue of the breach. This record,
in something around 100,000 deaths investigated during
our history, remains intact. One of recommendations was
that the Attorney General ask the State Services Authority
to undertake a review of the relationship between the
State Coroner/Coroners Court of Victoria and the VIFM.
This review commenced in July 2011.
Also during the year was the Ombudsman’s investigation
and report into the improper use of information by
one of our staff. We provided the executive support
to the Institute’s Security Review Committee founded
in the wake of the investigation. The report made four
recommendations which, at the time of writing, have
either been addressed or are in the process of being
addressed. The management and staff of the Institute
Finally, it would be remiss not to address some of the
major crises around the world that the Institute has
been able to assist with. The devastating earthquake in
Christchurch required a major disaster victim identification
response. The Institute provided pathology and technical
support in Christchurch at this very difficult time. Our
hearts go out to those who were so deeply and personally
affected by this tragedy. The tsunami and devastation
in Japan was another major international incident where
the Institute played a very small and mostly advisory
role. Professor Cordner visited Japan for discussions
on the nature of the responses that could be made
to the disaster and we kept in close contact with our
professional colleagues and friends in Japan who were
working so hard at a very difficult time.
Associate Professor David Ranson
Acting Director
(June – November 2010)
Dr Noel Woodford
Acting Director
(December 2010 – June 2011)
Obituaries and Tributes
James Harley “Jim” Kennan SC
24/02/1946 – 04/08/2010
Jim Kennan laying the Foundation Stone on 2 June 1986.
A tribute by Stephen Cordner,
Director of the VIFM.
While battling cancer, Jim collapsed unexpectedly at
work and died on 4 August 2010. The headlines of Jim’s
career are well known. He obtained his Masters in Law
from the University of Melbourne, was called to the bar
in 1971, became a founding member and later President
of the Victorian Society of Labor Lawyers and a founding
member of the Fitzroy Legal Service. He was elected
to the Legislative Council in 1982 and moved to the
Assembly in 1989 as the member for Broadmeadows.
He had no fewer than 7 portfolios in his 11 years in
Parliament, and for 2 years was Deputy Premier. At the
time he left parliament in 1993 he was head of
the Opposition.
It was during his time as Attorney General that the
VIFM was established. In November 1983, the month
after his appointment as Attorney General, Professor
Vernon Plueckhahn, John Phillips QC and Professor
Graeme Schofield met with him. They were given firm
assurance of his support for the establishment of a new
Coronial Services Centre housing the coroners courts
and a new separate entity: the Victorian Institute of
Forensic Pathology (VIFP). He agreed that the person
appointed to the Chair of Forensic Medicine at Monash
University should also be the Director of the VIFP. In
December 1983 he instructed the then Law Department
to investigate the availability of suitable sites for the new
facility. By July 1984, a detailed client concept brief
and a feasibility study were complete. Jim unveiled the
foundation stone for the new centre on 2 June 1986 and
the Centre was opened by the Premier on 26 July 1988.
in the light of issues of expert evidence in the Chamberlain
case and the appalling physical facilities, and their
consequences, at the Coroners Court in Flinders Street
Extension. His leadership meant that Victoria anticipated
many of the recommendations of The Royal Commission
into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody (RCIADIC, 1987-1991)
designed to remedy the poverty of death investigations it
had revealed.
Following his parliamentary life, he intersected with us via
his work on the Australia India Council (a bilateral foreign
relations council) and as a barrister. He helped ensure the
success of the Indo-Pacific Congress of Law Medicine
and Science held in Melbourne in 2002 (five days after the
twin towers outrage and the collapse of Ansett Airlines)
by speaking to the 500 registrants gathered for dinner.
He represented a number of clients, and as we historically
have, we will always speak to legal representatives to
help them understand what it is we have found and
what it means.
It is also right in this brief memoir to highlight his
tremendous support for our sister institute, the Victorian
Institute of Forensic Mental Health. Even more so than his
support for forensic medicine, there were never any votes in
supporting forensic psychiatry. But he not only did this while
in government, but he afterwards served for 10 years as the
Chair of its Board. Victoria owes Jim Kennan a huge debt
for his support of forensic medicine and psychiatry.
Australia struggles to properly recognise its leaders and to
remember their achievements. Jim was never interested
in seeking recognition, but a leader he was, and one who
contributed in numerous tangible ways. Amongst these is
an enduring legacy in coronial services, forensic medicine
and forensic psychiatry in Victoria.
David (Freddy) Freeman
04/07/1951 – 10/07/2011
He was an avid Geelong supporter, as is Professor
Plueckhahn. He once referred to his role in the completed
project as being alone in the goal square, the beneficiary
of all the work up field, receiving a hand pass from Gary
Ablett (senior) and simply having to put it through for a
goal. That, he surely did.
This eulogy was written by Stephen Cordner,
Director of VIFM, and is based on what he delivered
at David’s funeral.
Jim was keen to receive regular updates personally
about the development of services within the Centre. He
understood completely the value of its work, especially
David Freeman, the longest standing public servant on
the VIFM staff, died in hospital following complications of
surgery. David was a Pascoe Vale lad his entire life.
9
10
His father, Arthur, was a tram driver until he purchased
and drove his own taxi. David had three older brothers:
Les, Kevin and Peter and the home environment when he
was growing up was a loving and safe one. However, as
the youngest, there is not much doubt that David perhaps
got away with more than any of his brothers! In short, he
had fun as a child. He was a scout, went on camps with
Peter, and the family knew the neighbourhood and all the
people in it well.
David went to school at St Joseph’s College and
then Strathmore High where he completed his leaving
certificate in 1968. He went to work with the Victorian
Railways the following year, doing a further two leaving
subjects at the same time. He moved to the Attorney
General’s Department and then Agriculture, before
returning to Attorney General’s in 1975. There he
stayed, first in the Magistrate’s Court, then the Coroners
Office, and finally the VIFM, in a range of finance and
administrative roles.
David lived with his parents in Pascoe Vale South for
20 years before moving with them to Pascoe Vale Road,
and 40 years later was still living in the same house.
Essentially David spent his whole life in the family home.
This attachment to family was a characteristic that he
extended to the campus here in Southbank, which he
regarded as his second home, and everyone in it as
part of his extended family. The night before he went
to hospital for the last time he stayed at work very late.
Dianne, his much loved partner of 21 years, finally coaxed
him out for a meal at about 11pm. Nobody ever heard
David say a bad word about anyone, or heard him buy
into gossip or the politics of work life. This was one of the
reasons that he commanded great affection.
There were many elements to this affection people had
for him:
– nothing was ever too much trouble for him if it meant
helping someone – often a person he had just met, an
overseas visitor or (as is often the case here) someone
walking around looking lost.
– the smell of raisin toast early in the morning, even
the weekends when there was a function on, and
sometimes when there wasn’t
– “don’t worry, I will fix that”
– “do you want me to organise something for these
people?”
– looking completely at home with the refreshments
in our foyer or the barbeque in the dock area –
everything in hand, low key, tastefully within budget
– his encyclopaedic knowledge of the stores
– his unfailing eagerness to help
– his ‘retro’ culinary skills: cabana, dips, perfect cheese
cubes, meticulously sliced tomatoes and onions; his
mysterious rissole recipe
– his discretion and loyalty
– his love of our place, its people and respect for
its guests
– his huge support of our visitors from Sri Lanka in
particular, and Africa (Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria) –
evidenced by their unfailing gratitude in return
and it would be wrong not to include his affection for
beer: “the existence of beer is evidence that God meant
us to be happy” he was quoted as saying by one of his
nephews at his funeral!
Dianne and David’s brothers are all agreed that David
loved his work, loved his life at work and the camaraderie
of work. This was a camaraderie he in part created. In his
last days in hospital, he was asking Dianne for his mobile
phone: “What about if work needs me?” he argued. From
my own point of view, a huge contribution he made was
the hospitality he offered to so many of our overseas
visitors, including those with families, staying for a year
or more. Those who have lived and worked away from
home know more than most how important friendship
and companionship can be in the face of loneliness and
homesickness. David, and Dianne, as well as his brothers’
families, have contributed tremendously to the experience
our visitors had of VIFM, and of Australia. His brother
Peter told me, laughing, of David turning up on Christmas
Day in a small minivan with the Sri Lankan family of one of
our trainees. They were all immediately welcomed for the
traditional Christmas lunch! The number of our overseas
alumni who have written, having heard of David’s death,
with so many fond memories of being looked after by him
(and Dianne), speaks for itself.
I came across a letter from an overseas elective student,
here for perhaps six weeks: “David went out of his way
to make me welcome in Melbourne; and it is down to
him that the Melbourne Demons now have an extra
supporter after watching them thrash St Kilda at the
MCG.” Being a Melbourne fan myself, and knowing how
desperately we need support, I can’t tell you how glad I
was to read that. (David himself was a dyed in the wool
Collingwood supporter). There was a Collingwood flag
standing proudly at the foot of his hospital bed. In the
same file were myriads of thank you letters from all sorts
of people and organisations grateful for the hospitality
shown them at VIFM by David. And at his funeral, over
200 people gathered to honour him and to share these
and many other memories of a man who loved his family,
his freedom, and gave generously to others in return.
Dr Stan Pilbeam
12/12/1925 – 02/05/2011
L–R: Adrian Nye, Chairman of the VMIA, Dr Stan Pilbeam,
Mrs Marion Pilbeam, and former Victorian Premier John
Brumby at the 2007 Rural Medicine awards.
This obituary was kindly provided by Dr Stan
Pilbeam’s son, Dr Mark Pilbeam.
Stan Pilbeam was born on December 12, 1925 and
grew up in the village of Firle, about 4 miles from the
county town of Lewes in Sussex. His parents were
workers on the estate of Lord Gage and he attended
the village school.
He showed remarkable scholastic aptitude and won a
scholarship to Lewes County Grammar School, where he
gained many prizes and awards, including a scholarship in
1944 to study medicine at Cambridge University. During
his undergraduate training he won many exhibitions
and prizes, obtaining his medical qualifications in 1948.
Following his residency he served in the Royal Air Force
and spent two years as a medical officer in Southern
Rhodesia.
Newly married to Marion, he returned to England and
began postgraduate studies in clinical biochemistry and
subsequently in other areas of pathology and returned
to Africa to become the pathologist in Nyasaland (now
Malawi). He obtained a diploma of clinical pathology
in 1961 and was a founding member of the Royal
College of Pathologists. In 1964 the family, now with
four children, moved to Australia and Stan became the
pathologist to the Gippsland Base Hospital in Sale. In
1966 they moved to Ballarat and it was there that he
practiced as a pathologist, initially at the Ballarat Base
Hospital with an appointment at the St John of God
Hospital. Subsequently he became the regional director of
pathology and was responsible for the development of a
network of laboratories throughout western Victoria.
He retired from the Ballarat Base Hospital in 1990 but
continued to work at St John’s until 2001 when he retired
from practice. In his retirement he continued to take a
great interest in medicine, serving on different hospital
committees and consulting on “cold” cases.
He was passionate about pathology, and especially about
forensic pathology. His early experiences in Africa and his
insatiable curiosity drove his practice and for 25 years he
was a coroner’s pathologist in western Victoria. His work
was meticulous and held in high esteem by coroners,
lawyers and police. He also worked at the old coroner’s
mortuary in South Melbourne for many years and at the
time of the opening of the new Coronial Services Centre
in 1988 was one of the first pathologists appointed. He
was determined that regional pathologists should have
coronial experience and encouraged their attendance at
VIFM. He was also a great promoter of education and
was a founder of the Town and Country Pathologists
Club, whose first meeting took place in Ballarat in 1967.
Coronial matters were always on the agenda at the club
meetings with many interesting cases presented.
Stan was a man of great vision and could see the
important role of science and the evidence-based
approach in the development of modern medicine.
His experiences in Africa taught him novel ways of
solving diagnostic and administrative problems and the
importance of a co-operative approach. He was greatly
respected by his clinical and administrative colleagues
and his opinions were always highly valued.
We are all in his debt for the commitment he showed to
his craft, and to his clinical and laboratory colleagues,
all of whom he regarded as his friends. We will miss his
ready wit and his impish smile as much as his incisive
mind and organisational genius. Vale Stan.
Michael Georgesz
27/01/1969 – 28/04/2011
L–R: VIFM staff Emily Orchard, Michael Georgesz, Joanne
Hanna, Michael Pais pictured here after completing the
Melbourne Marathon in 2007.
Staff of the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine would
like to acknowledge the passing of Michael Georgesz
after a sudden and rapid illness on 28 April 2011.
Many Institute staff will remember Michael as the
Purchasing and Supplies Officer, a position he held from
2006 until his resignation to pursue other opportunities in
August 2010.
During the time he worked at the Institute, Michael
was also a keen member of the VIFM running team
and participated in many fundraising runs including the
Melbourne Marathon in 2008. His death at such a young
age is a tragedy for his family and for those of us here
who knew him.
11
12
OUR SERVICES
“
We must attract, develop and retain employees of the highest quality and provide
a working and learning environment that will allow employees to maximise their
contribution to the achievement of VIFM’s goals.
13
Introduction
We deliver the following services on a daily basis:
• forensic pathology services for the Coroners Court of
Victoria, and the State of Victoria
• clinical forensic medical services
• forensic scientific services
• tissue banking services (Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria)
and
• administration and support services.
In addition there are the services of teaching and research
delivered through the Department of Forensic Medicine,
which is part of the School of Public Health and Preventive
Medicine in the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health
Sciences at Monash University.
Service Structure
The chart below shows the organisational structure of the
VIFM as at the end of 2010–11.
Council
(& Council Committees)
Deputy Director
David Ranson
DTBV
Acting Head –
Stefan Poniatowski
Director
Stephen Cordner
Strategy & Planning
Medico-legal and Media
Forensic Pathology
Services
Head – Noel Woodford
Administration &
Support Services
Chief Operating
Officer
Mari-Ann Scott
Clinical Forensic
Medicine
Head – David Wells
Forensic Scientific
Services
Head – Olaf Drummer
Department of
Forensic Medicine
Head – Olaf Drummer
Administration & Support Services
Head – Mari-Ann Scott
Monash
Admin
Support
Service Heads have a reporting line into the COO for business and operational matters
Our greatest and most valued asset is our highly skilled and committed workforce.
We currently employ 180 staff working across the institute in a variety of
specialist medical, scientific, technical, research and administrative fields.
Positioning VIFM to meet the challenge of attracting and retaining a skilled
workforce in today’s competitive market requires us to be innovative. We must
attract, develop and retain employees of the highest quality and provide a working
and learning environment that will allow employees to maximise their contribution
to the achievement of VIFM’s goals.
14
VIFM Services and Obligations at a Glance
The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine serves the courts and community in accordance with the Institute’s statutory
objects and functions as set out in the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine Act 1985. The following is an overview of
the services provided by VIFM:
Medico-Legal Death Investigation
Service
Summary
The VIFM Act 1985 provides that the
functions of the Institute are:
The Medico-Legal Death Investigation
service provides detailed medical and related
scientific information and reports (autopsy
reports, medical examination findings and
medico-legal opinions) to the Supreme,
County, Magistrates and Coroners Courts of
Victoria Police, legal and medical practitioners
as well as a number of other public and
private organisations.
SECTION 64(2)
to provide promote and assist in the provision of
forensic pathology and related services in Victoria and as
far as practicable, oversee and co-ordinate those services
in Victoria.
SECTION 66
to provide facilities and staff for the conduct of
examinations in relation to deaths investigated under
this Act;
to identify by radiological or odontological examination or
other means the remains of deceased persons whose
deaths are being investigated under this Act.
to conduct other appropriate investigations or
examinations in relation to the cause of death of
any person;
to properly document and record findings and results of
investigations and examinations;
to provide reports to coroners about the medical causes
of deaths and the findings and results of investigations
and examinations;
In relation to Reviewable deaths, to investigate, assess
and instigate appropriate responses in respect of:
i. The health or safety of a living sibling of a deceased
child; and
Forensic Scientific Clinical Forensic
Services
Medicine
ii. The health of a parent of a deceased child, where the
death of that child constitutes a reviewable death.
Clinical Forensic Medicine (CFM) is the
branch of clinical medicine that interfaces with
both the medical and legal aspects of patient
care. CFM at the VIFM applies expert medical
knowledge to the collection and interpretation
of medical evidence in order to provide
impartial information that may assist victims,
the police and the judicial process.
SECTION 64(2)
to provide, promote and assist in the provision of clinical
forensic medicine and related services to the police force
of Victoria and government bodies.
The work of forensic and scientific services
is carried out under the provision of ‘related
services’ for Victoria both as an integral part
of the work of the forensic pathologist for the
coroner and also to provide services to the
wider Victorian community.
SECTION 64(2)
to provide promote and assist in the provision of
forensic pathology and related services in Victoria and as
far as practicable, oversee and co-ordinate those services
in Victoria.
SECTION 66
to ensure the provision of clinical forensic medical
services to the police force of Victoria and government
bodies in accordance with agreements for services
between those bodies and the Institute;
SECTION 66
to conduct chemical, microscopic, serological,
toxicological and other examinations of tissue and
fluids taken from deceased persons coming under the
jurisdiction of coroners in Victoria;
Teaching
Donor Tissue
Bank of Victoria
Service
Summary
The VIFM Act 1985 provides that the
functions of the Institute are:
The core function of the DTBV is to provide
Australian surgeons with tissue grafts for
transplantation in many areas of orthopaedic,
cardiothoracic, reconstructive surgery and
burn care, benefiting many Australian citizens
every year. DTBV also facilitates access for
researchers who require access to human
tissue for the completion of ethically approved
research projects, further advancing health
care and teaching.
SECTION 64(2)
to provide tissue banking facilities and services.
The Department of Forensic Medicine
operates as a department within the Faculty
of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at
Monash University. Its primary function is to
advance the discipline of forensic medicine
and its associated disciplines both in terms
of its training and development of future
practitioners and to increase the evidence
basis for the discipline through research
SECTION 64(2)
to promote, provide and assist in the undergraduate and
postgraduate instruction in the field of clinical forensic
medicine in Victoria;
The Human Tissue Act 1982 regulates the donation
and retrieval of human tissue before and after death,
prohibits the trading in human tissue and gives a legal
definition of death.
to provide training facilities for doctors, medical
undergraduates and such other persons as may be
considered appropriate by the Council to assist in the
proper functioning of the Institute;
to promote, provide and assist in the post-graduate
instruction and training of trainee specialist pathologists in
the field of forensic pathology in Victoria.
to promote, provide and assist in the post-graduate
instruction and training of persons qualified in biological
sciences in the fields of toxicological and forensic science
in Victoria.
Administration
Support Services
Research
SECTION 66
to promote, provide and assist in the teaching of and
training in clinical forensic medicine within medical, legal,
general health and other education programs;
The Institute continues to be a world leader in SECTION 64(2)
its research efforts in our fields.
to conduct research in the fields of forensic pathology,
forensic science, clinical forensic medicine and associated
fields as approved by the Council;
SECTION 66
to contribute to reducing the number of preventable
deaths and to promote public health and safety and the
administration of justice;
Our obligation to use our resources
productively demands a high standard
of management practice. Administration
Support Services includes the business
management functions of strategy,
governance and risk, finance and business
services, legal and policy, human resources
and organisational development, quality and
improvement, information management and
technology services, which provide support
and enabling services across the Institute.
15
16
Medico-Legal Death Investigation Services
“
Determining disease and injuries that may be present at the time of a
person’s death can have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of
the community.
17
Forensic Pathology Services
The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine serves the
community and the courts by undertaking medico-legal
death investigations (MLDIs) in deaths reported to the
State Coroner of Victoria.
Forensic pathologists focus on the examination of
deceased people to assist coroners, police and courts to
resolve critical medical issues, including causes of death,
the circumstances in which deaths and injuries might
have been caused and the relationship of pre-existing
natural disease to all of these.
Broadly speaking, Medico-Legal Death Investigation
services at VIFM include:
• Forensic Pathology Services
• Forensic Technical Services
• Human Identification Services
• the Family Health Information Program
These examinations include the review of medical
histories, investigation of the scene of the death,
interpreting the results of forensic scientific testing,
x-rays and CT scans, as well as external and internal
examinations of the body.
(Forensic Scientific Services are considered separately.)
The investigation is structured by the forensic
pathologist to meet the needs of the many
stakeholders involved in each case with the aim of
synthesizing all the observations, information and
results into a comprehensive report.
The vast majority of deaths that are reported to the
coroner are not crime related but due to natural causes.
In these reported cases a forensic pathology examination
is still required to be undertaken by the Institute if there
are uncertainties about the circumstances of the death,
what occurred around the time of the death, what (if any)
diseases the person may have suffered from, and the
actual causes of death.
Reporting to Government
The Institute reports to Government on its activities via
the Budget Paper 3 (BP3) statistics. The information
provides an accrued measure against target for
number of medico legal investigations, quality of reports
and timeliness of body turnaround and final reports.
While the Institute will do all it can to work around it,
the redevelopment of the facility may affect our ability
to achieve our performance targets. The table below
shows the outcomes for this year.
Determining disease and injuries that may be present at
the time of a person’s death can have a positive impact
on the health and wellbeing of the community. Thus, one
focus of Forensic Pathology today is public health, and
continuously striving to identify preventable health and
safety hazards which will allow the Coroners Court of
Summary of Medico-legal Death Investigation outputs
Unit of
measure
Year 2010–11
Comments
Target
Actual
% var
-9.3% Results for this performance measure
are dependent on the number of deaths
reported to Coroners. This has reduced
since the implementation of the new
Coroners Act 2008 which modified
some categories of reportable death.
Medico-legal death
investigations1
number
4,992
4,530
Forensic Medicine Quality
audit2
per cent
95%
94%
Medical and scientific
investigations on the
body of the deceased
completed within two
days3
per cent
65%
81%
16.2% Procedural changes introduced following
the new Coroners Act have allowed
significant improvements in this measure.
Medico-legal death
investigation reports
issued within agreed
period4
per cent
70%
61%
-9.4% An increase in complexity of full autopsy
cases and the training of new pathologists
continue to have an impact on this measure.
-1%
1 Count of medico legal investigations as requested by the State Coroner.
2 The percentage of completed case reports found to be satisfactory as a result of a quality audit.
3 The component of time that the medical investigation requires access to the body of the deceased before return to
the family.
4 Timeline for completion of an investigation based upon the complexity of the case.
18
Victoria and the Institute to make recommendations as to
how particular deaths and injuries might be prevented in
the future.
In this work we are assisted by a range of other medical
experts including nurses, radiologists, paediatric
pathologists and neuropathologists who support us in
particular cases.
Duty Pathologist and Preliminary
Examination
This move away from the more complex autopsy-based
medical death investigation procedures in favour of less
invasive examinations has been materially assisted by
Institute pathologists developing skills in and using post
mortem CT imaging. In addition the availability of 24 hour
turn around in toxicology testing and improvements in
the availability of background medical documents has
enabled pathologists to provide Coroners with far more
relevant information and medical advice upon which they
can base their case management decisions.
Regional Cases
On 1 November 2009, the new Coroners Act 2008
came into force resulting in significant changes to the
way in which medico-legal death investigations are
carried out in Victoria.
For the first time in Australia the notion of “preliminary
examinations” was created. Presentation of the body at
the Institute is the trigger for a preliminary examination
by the VIFM pathologist. Supported by VIFM, similar
procedures have been adopted by regional pathologists
as part of their investigations for the coroner.
A preliminary examination involves an external examination
of the body, collection of information and review of the
circumstances of death and health information such as
medical records relating to the deceased and a post
mortem CT scan. The taking and testing of samples
such as blood and urine, the taking of samples from the
surface of the body and identification procedures may
also form part of the preliminary examination in specific
cases. Rapid toxicological analysis of blood samples can
be performed and in certain cases is a critical component
of the preliminary examination.
Following completion of the preliminary examination,
the duty pathologist attempts to formulate a reasonable
medical cause of death and forms an opinion as to
whether a full autopsy is required or not. Taking this
information into account, along with legal aspects of the
investigation process and often the expressed wishes of
families, the Coroner then makes the final decision as to
whether to direct an autopsy or not.
The introduction of this process in Victoria continues to
have a significant impact on the reduction in the overall
autopsy rate for cases reported to the Coroner which is
now less than 50% of reported deaths.
The percentage of cases from regional Victoria arriving
at the Coronial Services Centre has increased again this
year to 77% as compared with 72% last year. Factors
affecting this included the retirement of pathology
consultants in regional areas and the cessation of services
in Warrnambool. This is despite supporting an increase
in the availability of pathology services regionally to
conduct investigations for the coroner, principally through
supporting the development of Ballarat and Bendigo as
regional centres.
Forensic Radiology
There were 3,935 CT scans completed this year as
compared with 4,183 last year. There were 111 plain
x-rays completed this year as compared with 85 last year.
Forensic Technical Services
Forensic Technical Services provide a complete and
comprehensive range of specialist forensic technical
services to the Institute, including all aspects of routine
mortuary work as well as some of the more advanced
forensic techniques such as tissue retrieval for the Donor
Tissue Bank of Victoria, forensic radiography, teaching
and research, and contributing to the advancement of
knowledge in forensic pathology.
The introduction of the new Coroners Act last year
impacted significantly on the work in the mortuary and
this has continued into this year. The new requirement
for a preliminary examination to be conducted on every
case has resulted in an increase in workload from the
Types of Medico-legal Death Investigations performed
2003/04
2004/05
2005/06
2006/07
2007/08
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
2370
1990
2169
2224
2383
2696
1977
2157
Inspection
947
1233
1296
1409
1484
1761
1985
1662
BDM referral*
145
373
398
444
447
586
588
711
Total
3462
3596
3863
4077
4314
5043
4550
4530
% full autopsy
68%
55%
56%
55%
55%
53%
43%
48%
Full autopsy
*Refers to cases in which deaths were initially only registered with Births Deaths and Marriages (BDM) but should have
been referred to the coroner.
19
time of admission. Timely CT examination, and toxicology
testing is now part of a complete preliminary examination
which informs the decision of the Coroner on the type of
autopsy to be performed.
Technicians have been involved in the testing and
establishment at the VIFM of a technique for post mortem
angiography. This is now performed in the assessment of
cases pre-autopsy. This information forms an important
part of the preliminary examination process, and is a big
change in the routine duties of the forensic technicians.
As the mortuary embarks on a major refurbishment, our
practices need to change accordingly to accommodate
an altered work environment. During these works the
workflow and space within the mortuary will be significantly
restricted challenging staff to meet key performance
indicators.
The staff of the VIFM forensic technical services team are
actively involved nationally and internationally to assist
with the management of disasters. The expertise we have
gained in the past makes us leaders in this arena and our
assistance is sought widely. Deployments in the last
12 months include:
• Assistance to smaller countries with service provision
in suspicious deaths such as Vanuatu, Norfolk Island
and Samoa
• Assistance with the AFP DVI operation following an
aviation incident in Congo
• Assistance in the DVI operation in the aftermath of the
devastating earthquake in Christchurch
To provide learning opportunities to staff, in mid-2010,
VIFM came to an agreement with the Ontario Forensic
Pathology Service in relation to staff exchanges.
Accordingly, in January 2011, Dr Jodie Leditschke
(Manager, Forensic Technical Services) left the Institute
to spend 6 months working for the OFPS in Toronto.
We expect that in the medium-term we will, in turn,
host an OFPS staff member of similar seniority. Both
organisations clearly benefit from this arrangement, as do
the individuals involved.
Also during the year was the Ombudsman’s investigation
and report into the improper use of information by one
of our staff. This was a very upsetting for all our staff
who, like the Institute generally, felt very disappointed.
We provided the executive support to the Institute’s
Security Review Committee founded in the wake of the
investigation. We fully support the improvements which
have been and continue to be rolled out in relation to
respect for privacy, confidentiality, physical security of
records and IT security.
Human Identification Services
In line with the functions of the Institute set out under
S 66 (1) (c) of the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine
Act 1985 and at the request of the Coroner, we provide
the scientific human identification services of forensic
anthropology (skeletal remains) and forensic odontology
(dental identification). These services, alongside DNA
identification services provided by the molecular biology
laboratory, are used where visual identification of the
deceased is not possible or is inappropriate.
Forensic Anthropology
Forensic anthropology involves the examination and
analysis human remains to provide answers to questions
which, depending on the circumstances of the case,
may include gender, age, stature, ancestry, and the
circumstances and/or causes of death.
Forensic anthropologists may also become involved in
locating and recovering human remains which in many
cases may be unrecognisable to the layperson or police
and therefore overlooked. Such evidence can impact on
the reconstruction of the remains and the interpretation of
the timing (ante, peri- or post-mortem) of events.
The forensic anthropologist may also assist with scene
interpretation of buried and/or surface scattered remains.
The interpretation may include the spatial-temporal
relationships between the body and associated evidence,
the body position and the number of individuals present.
Forensic Odontology
The role of forensic odontologists in the medico-legal
death investigation process is an important one which
is often not widely understood by the community. In
addition to playing a fundamental role in the identification
of unknown deceased persons (often in missing person,
arson or homicide cases), forensic odontologists also
Summary of Human Identification Services Outputs
Forensic odontology
Forensic anthropology
2009/10
2010/11
% change
114
70
39
93
66
29
20
contribute to aspects of age assessment, facial trauma
reporting and bite-mark interpretations following incidents
of assault and rape.
Both on a local and international level, forensic
odontologists support the community through the
ongoing teaching and training of agencies involved in
Disaster Victim Identification (DVI).
The important role of odontology in medico-legal death
investigation is reinforced in presentations given by
Institute staff to legal, medical and dental students.
to expert evidence. In addition, we try to ensure that
staff attending court are accompanied by students,
trainees or other junior staff. This enables the procedures
of giving evidence-in-chief and being subject to crossexamination to be a learning experience for future forensic
practitioners.
Forensic pathologists and scientists also provided expert
opinions with respect to forensic case work originating in
interstate jurisdictions and overseas. Involvement in such
cases expands the experience and knowledge of our staff
which improves the quality of the service we can provide
in Victoria.
Highlights
This reporting year has seen the continuing work of
Institute staff with missing persons units around Australia
to build awareness and understanding of the importance
of collecting and translating ante-mortem dental records
in missing person investigations. Based on this work,
a national data-base of dental information is currently
being compiled with the involvement of all state forensic
odontology units.
This year VIFM have also undertaken significant research
into determining the age of refugees arriving in Australia
with little or no documentation. Under Australian law,
a refugee may have a different legal status depending
on whether they are over the age of 18. Therefore,
the expertise of trained forensic odontologists can be
used to assess the age of refugees by interpreting the
development and calcification of teeth.
Pathology Serving the Courts
Forensic pathologists and scientists regularly appear
as experts in courts throughout Victoria. Coroners,
Magistrates, County and Supreme Courts are exposed
to a wide range of highly technical medical and scientific
information which needs to be delivered in a manner
which can be comprehended by a broad section of the
community.
Our medical and scientific staff undergo formal training
in ‘witness skills’, and we try to ensure that all staff giving
oral evidence receive feedback on their performance
from senior staff who attend at court with them. This
forms part of the Institute’s quality program with respect
Court appearances relating to MLDIs
Court
%
Coroners
32
26%
County
13
11%
Magistrates
39
32%
2
2%
35
29%
Supreme
Total
121
The Victorian Government introduced a new system for
dealing with multiple child deaths in a family following
recommendations in 2003 which are reflected in the
functions of the VIFM Act 1985.
Section 66(c) ‘The Institute also has a function to
investigate, assess and instigate appropriate responses in
the respect of –
(a)The health or safety of a living sibling of a deceased
child, and
(b)The health of a parent of a deceased child – where the
death of a child constitutes a reviewable death.’
The intention of the legislation is to ensure that Victorian
systems and processes for handling deaths are capable
of dealing effectively and humanely with all cases where,
over time, multiple child deaths occur within a family. In
doing so, the legislation seeks to balance the rights of
grieving families with the public interest in ensuring that
living children are protected in cases where intervention is
necessary, and that families receive appropriate medical
and social supports.
As part of the process, the State Coroner may refer a
reviewable death to the Institute for investigation and
assessment of the health and safety needs of living
siblings of a second or subsequent deceased child in a
family and the health needs of the parents. Cases under
consideration for referral to the Institute are discussed
by both organisations before the formal review. The
assessment conducted by Institute staff includes a review
of any autopsies of the deceased children and the health
and welfare of surviving siblings and parents.
Magistrates 32%
Instances
Other
Reviewable Deaths
County 11%
Other 2%
Supreme 29%
Coroners 26%
A Death Following Organ Transplantation
A young woman who had suffered a stroke and was placed on life support in
hospital. Her family consented to donation of various organs and her heart, lungs
and kidney were transplanted.
Three different recipients of these organs died of unknown causes within a short
period of time, a very rare outcome in organ transplantation.
One of the deceased persons was admitted to the VIFM where an autopsy was
conducted and tissue samples were sent to the Victorian Infectious Diseases
Reference Laboratory.
The autopsy and subsequent virologist tests identified an unusual virus.
This result was of considerable medical significance and raised important issues
for urgent tissue donation protocols in the future, issues which were canvassed at
a subsequent coroner’s inquest.
A Peri-natal Death
Jane was a young woman in her 20’s with a heroin addiction and a history of
miscarriages and abortions.
She presented at hospital with a deceased newborn infant and the doctor on duty
completed a peri-natal death certificate.
The death was later reported to the coroner and a forensic pathologist was asked to
review the case.
The question was whether the infant had been born dead or alive.
A medical examination of Jane revealed a placental abruption and an ascending genital
tract infection. An autopsy on the infant revealed the membrane was necrotic which
indicated that the child had died in utero as a result of the abruption.
These findings meant there was no question of Jane herself having been directly the
cause of the infant’s death.
The fictionalised case studies featured in this service section have been created as an amalgam of forensic case work in
Australia and overseas over many years. They are included to illustrate various aspects of the work of the institute and
readers should note that any similarity to actual medical or scientific investigation is coincidental.
21
22
Family Health Information Service
Over the year many individuals and their families have
directly benefited from the referral services provided
through the VIFM Family Health Information Service. Since
its commencement in 2001, over 700 families have been
referred to medical specialists or general practitioners to
follow up such findings as previously undiagnosed cancer,
ischemic heart disease and other conditions with possible
genetic significance.
The referral service was developed to fill a gap in health
services by directly supporting at-risk individuals and
families in the community at a time when they are often at
their most vulnerable, grieving the loss of a loved one. The
referral service enhances the ability to detect and prevent
familial disease as well as patterns of injury and death
within the community that could be prevented.
Inherited causes of sudden death are increasingly being
recognised, on both a clinical and molecular level. When
a sudden death occurs in Victoria, the Coroner may
order an autopsy primarily to ascertain a cause of death.
During this process the forensic pathologist may uncover
previously unknown or little understood health issues that
may have a genetic basis and therefore of significance to
surviving family members. The pathologist, in partnership
with the pathology nurses, is able to give family members
direct and clear information with the objective to support
families by putting them in contact with their practitioner
or a specialist to formulate health care strategies that
maximise their well-being and, in some cases, prevent
premature death.
Whilst individual experiences were unique, family stories
followed a general pathway. Woven through these stories
were feelings of shock about the death and uncertainty
about the cause. For many there was an ongoing search
for answers, an underlying view that opportunities to
prevent the death had been missed, and overarching
narratives of grief.
Participants in the research generally felt cared for and
supported through the forensic process, which was
recognised as important by all. This feedback has been
pivotal in work now underway to clarify roles and
enhance the availability and effectiveness of this
important family service.
The VIFM considers this service an intrinsic facet of its
practice and one which reflects a commitment to the
emotional and physical wellbeing of the living through our
work with the deceased.
This year a qualitative study of this service commenced
by contacting families who had experienced a recent loss
in the family and were offered or sought support for their
family members through the VIFM. The research was
conducted by Murdoch Childrens Research Institute to
explore how genetic information is communicated within
families following a sudden death, the experiences of
individuals and their attitudes towards the process.
“
It is generally agreed that an autopsy is a procedure of considerable ethical
significance as it interferes with the body. The significance is such that the
community has a right to expect that systems are developed, within legal
and resource constraints, and with community input and understanding, to
ensure that the substantial potential benefits of performing an autopsy are
realised and that the autopsy is not meeting only narrowly defined needs.1
1 Ethical Practice in Laboratory Medicine and Forensic Pathology. S. Cordner, M. El Nagel, B. Linehan,
D. Wells, H. McKelvie. WHO. EMRO. 1999. p39
23
Autopsies can save lives.
Stephen was a fit, young man in his late teens who played for his local sporting club.
With no history of illness, everyone was amazed when he collapsed during training.
Despite immediate paramedic attention and being rushed to hospital, Stephen was not
able to be resuscitated.
An autopsy revealed the cause of Stephen’s death to be arrhythmogenic right
ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), which is a rare heart condition that can be
passed on from one generation to another.
The pathologist who performed the autopsy recommended that Stephen’s younger
siblings both be tested.
His sister was found to have ARVC and an intra-cardiac defibrillator (ICD) was
implanted but there was no evidence that his brother had the condition.
Both parents were recommended to have regular heart checks. Quite possibly, the
careful investigation of Stephen’s tragic death, and the communication of the results
to his family, have improved his sister’s longevity.
Medical Liaison Nurse Consultant, Natalie Morgan.
This year 272 cases have been referred by forensic pathologists to the family health program to follow up such findings
as undiagnosed cancer, aortic dissection, haemachromatosis and ischaemic heart disease in the young. The tables
below show the number of referrals by year and the percentage of cases in each category.
Number of referrals to Family Health Program
Referrals
2007/08
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
262
254
275
272
Types of referral in 2010/11
Undiagnosed
Cancer
Heart Disease
Inherited Blood
Disorders
Aortic Dissection
Other
9%
69%
7%
4%
12%
24
Clinical Forensic Medicine Service
“
Our specialist clinicians interface with both the medical and legal aspects
of patient care by applying expert medical knowledge to the collection and
interpretation of medical evidence to provide information that may assist
victims, the police and the courts.
25
Clinical Forensic Medicine (CFM) is the branch of forensic
medicine that connects with a broad spectrum of our
community. Our specialist clinicians interface with
both the medical and legal aspects of patient care by
applying expert medical knowledge to the collection and
interpretation of medical evidence to provide information
that may assist victims, the police and the courts.
CFM provides an around-the-clock response across
the state via a network of Forensic Medical Officers and
Forensic Nurse Examiners in the following service areas:
• determining whether a behaviour maybe the result of a
medical condition
• providing an acute health and forensic service to
complainants or suspects
• the collection, preservation and analysis of medical
evidence in relation to subsequent legal action(s)
• the presentation of evidence in courts of law, including
the provision of ‘expert opinions’, and
• delivering training to the medical, legal, policing and
other groups on a range of medico-legal topics.
Forensic practitioners must maintain a high standard of
specialist skills and competency and continually build their
knowledge. This is achieved through participation in a
range of principal activities that are both interdependent
and complementary.
In the past year, CFM has provided the following services
to victims of crime and Victoria Police:
SERVICE
2009/10
2010/11
Adult Sexual Assault
Examinations
444
482
Adult Physical Assault
Examinations
247
240
Service Provided to Children
(<18)
74
Biological Specimens
Collection
Forensic Nurse Examiner (FNE) network:
During 2010–11 the Forensic Nursing Network (FNN) has
continued to provide forensic services throughout Victoria.
There are currently 12 trained active Forensic Nurses
practicing in rural Victoria, and 8 across metropolitan
Melbourne.
Currently, 10 Registered Nurses are completing the
Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Forensics) from various
States around Australia. The Forensic Nursing Scope of
Practice, which enables the VIFM to begin a competency
assessment initiative for all Forensic Nurses, will be
launched later this year.
Furthermore, the VIFM continues to provide educational
opportunities for all Forensic Nurses including the quarterly
Forensic Case Group meetings, the weekly lecture series
and quarterly FNE meetings which incorporate the policy
and procedure updates and case reviews.
VicRoads, Taxi Directorate of Victoria and
Worksafe
CFM is the medical advisor to VicRoads, the Victorian
Taxi Directorate and Worksafe, providing medical opinions
regarding drivers’ suitability to hold various licences,
certificates and permits issued by those authorities. The
CFM service model in Victoria is widely recognised as
“best practice” in Australia and is often consulted by
police and driver licensing authorities in other jurisdictions.
As a result of their expertise in this field, CFM has
participated in regular reviews of the Austroads National
Guidelines for Assessing Fitness to Drive.
2009/10
2010/11
VicRoads – licence reviews
4,678
3,482
80
VicRoads – bicycle helmets
unit
6
7
49
65
Taxi Directorate of Victoria
626
635
72
85
Fitness for Interview
444
409
Traffic Medicine
486
477
32
17
6
1
Medico-Legal Expert Opinion
466
567
Court Appearances
158
178
59
19
352
n/a
2,817
2,535
Approx
1,300
1,236
Ethical Standards
Psychiatric Services
Other Specialised Services
Workforce Testing
TOTAL
Expert Medical Phone Advice
resulting in case diversion
(does not include phone triage
on cases)
SERVICE
WorkSafe
26
In conjunction with the Neurosciences Department of St
Vincent’s hospital, the CFM division operates Australia’s
only specialist driving clinic. This has been very successful
and attracts referrals from doctors all over Victoria.
St Vincent’s Driving Clinic
Patients
2009/10
2010/11
109
88
The CFM division continues to be involved in road safety
research in conjunction with the Monash University
Accident Research Centre (MUARC). Achievements and
ongoing projects for 2010–11 include:
• a study on chronic illness and crash risk
• OzCanDrive – a 5 year project to document the driving
practices of older drivers involving a prospective study
of 200 older drivers using tracking devices in their
vehicles
• contributions to the review of the National Transport
Commission licensing guidelines.
CFM Teaching
The role of the VIFM in teaching and training in the
field of Clinical Forensic Medicine is detailed within the
Department of Forensic Medicine section of this Annual
Report. During this year our staff have participated in
educational sessions, seminars and talks for a large
number of external organisations including Victoria
Police, the legal profession, hospital registrar training
sessions and Grand Rounds, Divisions of General
Practice, universities (medical, paramedical and nonmedical; undergraduate and post graduate), Schools
and a diverse range of Community groups. They are
regularly invited to deliver teaching programs nationally
and internationally including an annual training program for
medical practitioners across New Zealand. Much of this
information is included in Appendix B.
Social deprivation and acute medical emergency
Sue, a homeless woman in her mid forties, was arrested at the local shopping centre for
stealing two bottles of vodka and taken to the police station on suspicion of theft.
Sue was unkempt. She had long matted and unwashed hair. Her nails were long and
filthy. Her clothes were equally dirty and shabby. She looked severely undernourished.
A forensic medical officer was called in to assess her.
The FMO’s examination immediately revealed a severe lack of vitamin B and a case of
Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome which are conditions that are both
due to brain damage caused by a lack of vitamin B1. A lack of this vitamin is common
in people with alcoholism and those persons whose bodies do not absorb food properly.
Left untreated, an individual with this condition may experience a permanent loss of
memory, a permanent loss of thinking skills and a shortened life span.
Sue was given vitamin B at hospital and her hallucinations and impaired memory
improved in the days that followed her admission.
In addition to this medical assistance, a representative from Social Services was
consulted. The representative assisted Sue with housing and arranged for her to receive
counselling for her alcoholism.
She was housed soon after her discharge from hospital and registered with the local GP
who has since referred her to a Drugs and Alcohol Unit.
Forensic Medical Examiners (FMOs) regularly come into contact with highly vulnerable
people in police custody who have fallen through the social services and medical nets.
Contact with the FMO following their arrest, can very often be the only access these
individual get to medical services.
The fictionalised case studies featured in this service section have been created as an amalgam of forensic case work in
Australia and overseas over many years. They are included to illustrate various aspects of the work of the institute and readers
should note that any similarity to actual medical or scientific investigation is coincidental.
Determining Fitness to Face the Court
Jack, a tradesman in his mid 30’s was charged with multiple counts of child sexual
assault and was scheduled to appear in court.
His defence team had enlisted the evidence of his general practitioner and treating
specialist in an attempt to convince the court of his inability to appear.
The practitioners claimed that Jack suffered from chronic fatigue syndrome and a bowel
disorder which they maintained meant he was unfit for lengthy court appearances.
The Office of Public Prosecutions (OPP) asked a Forensic Medical Officer to review the
case and present her opinion at a preliminary court hearing.
The FMO’s opinion was that Jack was indeed fit to face a court appearance.
All three medical practitioners gave evidence, the presiding judge agreed with the OPP
and Jack was ordered to appear.
Jack was convicted of multiple crimes and is now serving a lengthy sentence.
Helping victims of sexual violence
Erica, a woman in her 30’s, attended the Southern Health Sexual Assault Follow Up
Clinic a few weeks after allegedly being sexual assaulted. She had been experiencing
some genital symptoms but was not comfortable attending a community sexual health
clinic or her GP. Tests performed at the clinic revealed that Erica had a sexually
transmitted infection. However, thanks to the specialty services housed under the one
roof at the clinic, Erica received treatment and advice from sexual health specialists as
well as a referral to services for counselling and legal advice.
The Southern Health Sexual Assault Follow Up Clinic was set up by the VIFM in late
2009. The primary purpose of the clinic is to provide a Sexual Health Service for
adolescent and adult victims of recent sexual assault. The clinic is held weekly at
Monash Medical Centre and provides an important review of a range of medical issues
(e.g. sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy, injuries), referral to other health
services (psychiatric, drug and alcohol services, social work) and a linkage to ongoing
health care (e.g. paediatric services, sexual health clinics and general practice).
Detection and diversion of mentally-ill detainees
Adam was a young man who was arrested by police for assault after he became violent
toward his parents and threatened to kill them with a knife. He was taken to a local police
station where a forensic medical officer (FMO) from VIFM was called in to assess Adam’s
fitness for interview. When the FMO arrived at the police station he found Adam to be
uncooperative, aggressive and generally pre-occupied with irrelevant and unimportant
matters. Adam had no insight into his current predicament.
Suspecting he was suffering from an acute mental illness, the FMO shared his concerns
with Adam’s parents. Although they suspected Adam was suffering from a mental
disorder they had been too scared of their own son to seek help. Thanks to the assessment
of an FMO, Adam was subsequently diagnosed with schizophrenia and was able to be
successfully treated. A year later he resumed his studies. The police did not charge him
for the assault.
The recognition and diversion of mentally ill individuals away from the criminal justice
system and into medical services which best serve them is an important part of the role
of a forensic medical officer (FMO).
27
28
“
The work of the Institute’s forensic scientists often has far reaching and
sometimes ground-breaking impacts on the health and wellbeing of the
Victorian community.
29
The work of Forensic Scientific Services at the Institute
is not only an integral part of the death investigation
process, but also contributes to the improvement of the
health of the Victorian community.
Our forensic scientific service provides expertise
to investigators and the courts in the following
specialty areas:
• Toxicology
• Molecular Biology (DNA)
• Histopathology
• Microbiology
• Entomology
Highlights
The laboratory continued to meet all key performance
indicators despite a significant increase in the number
of routine samples submitted for histological preparation
along with a greater demand for specialised stains.
A workshop was also held which involved key histology
and pathology staff to investigate potential future
developments in histopathology techniques that may
form the basis of research or development opportunities
as well as enhancing the current service provided by the
laboratory.
The work of the Institute’s forensic scientists often has
far reaching and sometimes ground-breaking impacts
on the health and wellbeing of the Victorian community.
For example, research performed by VIFM’s toxicologists
has led to improvements in the way drugs and other
substances are detected to gain a better understanding of
the way these substances can impact health and safety.
Key Work Load Data for 2010–11 in comparison to
2009–10
The VIFM Molecular Biology laboratory provides
DNA typing services for human identification which
is often critical in cases involving missing persons,
murder, suicide, accident, or suspected neglect of
persons in care.
Histopathology’s focus this reporting year has been
to continue providing a comprehensive forensic
histopathology service to VIFM pathologists and trainees,
given a further increase in the routine and specialised
workload (~ 32% over past 4 years).
Histopathology
Histology is the study of the structure and function
of human tissues and plays an important role in the
prevention of disease in the community. In the forensic
setting, it forms an integral part of the autopsy by allowing
the pathologist to examine human tissues microscopically
for any disease or tissue injury.
The number of tissue blocks produced by this laboratory
increased by 10% to 52,295 for the year with a turnaround time of 97% of cases being completed within 5.0
days. Special stain requests also increased significantly
from both last year and the previous year.
The laboratory has particularly provided greater support to
the neuropathology service in receiving significantly more
samples and performing the Beta Amyloid Precursor
Protein (BAPP) Immunohistochemistry (IHC) on a large
portion of these samples.
Tissue received into the laboratory undergoes several
processes, culminating in the production of ultra-thin
sections of stained tissue mounted on glass slides
ready for microscopic examination. The tissue sections
are “stained” with a variety of specialist dyes to image
cellular structures in the various tissues of the body.
The information obtained from this process, especially
information on natural disease, has the capacity to
prevent the deaths of others in the community.
Summary of Histology outputs
2009/2010
2010/2011
% Change
No. Cases
2,124
2,248
+5.5%
No. Blocks
47,016
52,295
+10%
3,010
3,655
+17%
98
97
No. Special Requests
% Routine Work Completed in 5 days
30
Forensic Toxicology
The Forensic Toxicology department at the Institute
provides a range of services to clients who include
Victoria Police and the courts. Forensic Toxicology staff
provide comprehensive drug testing in medico-legal
death investigations (MLDI) as well as testing for the
Victoria Police for their random drug testing program and
the detection of alcohol and drugs in crime suspects,
impaired and/or injured drivers
Highlights
In this reporting year the Toxicology laboratory has
continued to improve an already outstanding service
to the Victorian community with the routine Overnight
Toxicology Screening Service. Using tandem liquid
chromatography mass spectronomy (LC-MS), VIFM’s
toxicologists are able to provide pathologists, and thus
coroners, with comprehensive toxicology data at the
preliminary investigation stage of a death. This service has
a very tangible impact on the families of the deceased
because the Coroner may be able to return the body
to the family sooner than was possible in the past, thus
avoiding further distress to the family during an already
difficult time.
Additional improvements in laboratory methodologies in
this reporting year have included the development of a
comprehensive drug screening and quantification method
in urine for 240 different drugs and metabolites. This has
produced significant improvements in laboratory efficiency
and has increased the Institute’s capacity to measure
drugs not typically detected using standard techniques.
The laboratory has also made great strides in improving
turnaround times for both MLDI and Victoria Police
service work. Efficiency gains have resulted in all KPI’s
being met or exceeded for the first half of 2011. A number
of additional staff were employed to conduct this work in
conjunction with a reorganisation of laboratory personnel
and practices to accommodate the increased complexity
and work outputs. A number of Approved Analysts
were also formally gazetted (under the Victorian Road
Safety Act) which strengthened the overall competency
of the laboratory and increased throughput for Victoria
Police casework.
Toxicology staff continued to provide evidence in court
as part of their role in both metropolitan Melbourne and
rural Victoria. Overall, expert evidence was provided on
38 occasions in the Supreme, County, Magistrates and
Coroners Courts of Victoria.
Expert toxicology staff have also been involved in a
training program at the Central Institute of Forensic
Science in Thailand to increase the analytical capacity of
their Bureau of Forensic Chemistry.
Under the auspices of the National Institute of Forensic
Science (NIFS) and the Senior Managers of Australian
and New Zealand Forensic Laboratories (SMANZFL),
Dr Dimitri Gerostamoulos continued his role as Toxicology
Special Advisory Group (ToxSAG) Chair and attended
the SMANZFL meeting in Adelaide (2010) as well as the
ToxSAG meeting in Sydney (2010). The ToxSAG, with
assistance from Senior Toxicologist Dr Jochen Beyer,
formulated national guidelines for forensic toxicologists
to identify drugs/compounds using mass spectrometry.
This major achievement incorporates other analytical
approaches from around the world and provides
key guidelines to the VIFM’s toxicologists in terms of
consistency in identifying drugs for medico-legal casework.
Key Work Load Data for 2010–11 in comparison to
2009–10.
The complexity of services delivered by FSS continued,
with the number of medico-legal death investigations
(MLDI’s) requiring toxicology slightly decreasing by 3.9%
from 4,115 to 3,952 in the last financial year. These were
completed with a median time of 23 days in comparison
to 31 days from the previous year. Victoria Police service
work increased by 6.5% comprising drug and alcohol
detection in impaired and injured driver cases and random
oral fluid drug testing. Drug facilitated sexual assault case
work decreased by 14.3%.
We anticipate significant impacts on the turnaround
time for cases in the coming year referable to the
redevelopment of the facility.
Summary of Toxicology Outputs
Case type
2009/10
2010/11
Difference
Coronial
4,115
3,952
-3.9%
Victoria Police traffic cases
5,793
6,173
+6.5%
160
137
-14%
Drug facilitated cases
Drug and Alcohol Intelligence on Our Roads
One of the ways in which the VIFM’s Forensic Scientific Services contributes to
community health and wellbeing is through its commitment to making our roads safer.
The work carried out by the Institute’s Toxicology staff produces information on the
role of drugs and alcohol in road deaths and injuries to government, legislators, and
researchers. On a daily basis, the Institute’s toxicology staff apply their expertise in
forensic toxicology, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics (concentrations of drugs in
the body over time), to the ongoing improvement of road safety.
All road deaths in Victoria are reported to the State Coroner and include motor vehicle
collisions, as well as pedestrian and cyclist deaths. As part of the medico-legal death
investigation these road deaths are assessed to determine whether drugs or alcohol
played a role.
The routine analysis of blood specimens over the last two years at VIFM has provided
an insight into the types and extent of drug and alcohol use in drivers who have been
injured or killed on our roads. Data collected by VIFM over this period shows that
alcohol continues to be a factor in a significant number of driver deaths, not just in
Victoria but nationwide.
Approximately 30% of all drivers and pedestrians killed in Victoria have a blood
alcohol concentration of over 0.05%. On average a further 15% of drivers are also
cannabis positive. Similarly, among injured drivers almost 25% have a blood alcohol
concentration of over 0.05%; and a further 12% are also cannabis positive.
Work performed over a long period at VIFM has led to the introduction of countermeasures designed to discourage drug use in drivers. Data provided by the VIFM to
the Parliamentary Road Safety Committee contributed to the decision to introduce
the world’s first random drug testing program using oral fluid (saliva) in 2004. This
program has been running for over 7 years in Victoria with a number of motorists
being prosecuted for driving under the influence of drugs during that time. The
current rate of drivers who randomly test positive to substances such as cannabis,
speed or ecstasy is one in 60, compared with a rate of one in 180 of those randomly
tested for alcohol.
Other drugs that have been detected in drivers include cocaine, ketamine,
amphetamines and heroin. Stimulants such as amphetamines are of particular
concern to road safety since there is a common misconception, particularly among
long-haul truck drivers, that these drugs can improve driving ability. Initially
these drugs increase alertness but then can also increase risk-taking, tunnel vision
and aggressive driving behaviour. Also, once amphetamines surpass their initial
stimulatory phase they can result in serious fatigue and sleep deprivation, often with
catastrophic and fatal outcomes.
31
32
Molecular Biology
The Molecular Biology section provides DNA services to
the Institute, ensuring the delivery of timely, high quality
and high value nuclear DNA (nDNA) and mitochondrial
DNA (mitDNA) profiling. These services support the
Institute’s functions and objectives, providing DNA
analysis to assist in the identification of deceased
persons for:
• Medico-Legal Death Investigations (MLDI)
• Disaster Victim Identification (DVI), and
• Missing person and cold case investigations for
Victoria Police.
of CrimTrac. The software is now used to house the
Victorian Missing Persons DNA Database (VMPDD), to
assist with the identification of missing persons, by storing
DNA profiles for unidentified human remains as well as
the DNA profiles from samples provided by the family of
missing persons and performing kinship analysis. Such
an application is the first in Australia and will ensure
the safe keeping of this data for future missing person
investigations.
In addition, the section offers fee-for-service DNA
testing to the wider community, including other
Jurisdictions within Australia. For example, mitDNA
analysis of hair samples for homicide investigations;
mitDNA analysis for interstate missing person
investigations; or paternity testing.
The Molecular Biology section also has a strong research
focus. This has recently being directed towards improving
DNA extraction methods for compromised samples, such
as bones from skeletised remains; as well as developing
a mitDNA database for Victoria. In doing so, the section
utilised skills in the areas of molecular genetics, molecular
biology, biochemistry and bioinformatics.
Highlights
Since aligning the DNA profiling capability with other
forensic laboratories in Australia, the Molecular Biology
section (together with the other members of the BSAG)
is assisting in the evaluation of newly developed profiling
kits, to ultimately inform which genetic markers Australia
will adopt for identification purposes going forward.
Following the successful application of the C.O.D.I.S.
(Combined DNA Index System – FBI) software during
the 2009 Victorian Bushfires, the Molecular Biology
section has maintained this capability with the support
Summary of Molecular Biology Outputs
Case type
2009/10
Coronial identification cases – nDNA
171
Coronial Identification cases – mitDNA
9
SLA Victoria Police cases – nDNA (a)
11
SLA Victoria Police cases – mDNA (a)
15
SLA Victoria Police cases – nDNA & mDNA (a)
–
SLA CODIS entry cases (b)
7
Other nDNA cases – fee for service
11
Other mitDNA cases – fee for service
10
Parentage cases
161
(a): denotes long term missing persons or cold case investigations
(b): denotes request for targeted comparisons of DNA profiles housed in CODIS
2010/11
115
3
11
6
31
8
12
11
124
Change
-33%
-67%
0%
-60%
N/A
14%
9%
10%
-23%
Missing Persons
In May 2011, a positive identification was made of human remains as those of a missing
person with the help of DNA evidence. This may strike most people as a fairly ordinary
event in an age where DNA testing is ubiquitous on most TV crime dramas. The reality
is that up until very recently, the ability to identify the remains of missing persons
through DNA profiling was more difficult than finding a needle in the proverbial
haystack. What was most significant about this recent positive identification was that
it was the first of its kind in Victoria and represents a wonderful collaboration between
the VIFM’s forensic scientists and Victoria Police.
The breakthrough, however, was borne out of the tragic events of the 2009 Black
Saturday bushfires. In the aftermath of the bushfires which killed 173 Victorians,
staff at the VIFM worked closely with Victoria Police in a multi-disciplinary approach
to disaster victim identification which involved methodologies of DNA profiling,
forensic anthropology and odontology. Valuable expertise was also shared in the use of
specialised software which was made available to VIFM staff by Victoria Police to assist
with identification. DNA profiles were obtained from the victims of the fires as well as
the families of the deceased and were brought together in a single DNA database which
enabled the comparison of DNA profiles in a process known as ‘kinship matching’.
Prior to Black Saturday in Australia, DNA profile information could not be stored in
existing missing person databases so kinship matching was near impossible. In a light
bulb moment, scientists from the VIFM and members of the Victoria Police’s missing
persons task force (Belier Task Force) realised the potential to establish Australia’s
first Missing Persons DNA database for the purpose of undertaking kinship matching.
As a result, the VIFM and Victoria Police have worked together to establish a Victorian
Missing Person DNA Database (VMPDD) with the view to capture and future-proof
familial reference samples for missing person investigations so that they can be
compared to DNA profiles whenever unidentified human remains are located in Victoria.
Since July 2010, the VIFM has commenced the nuclear and mitochondrial DNA
profiling of reference samples obtained from relatives of missing persons. To date,
the VMPDD holds over 100 DNA profiles from relatives, with new profiles added on a
weekly basis. These are routinely compared to the DNA profiles held in the database for
unidentified human remains, in the constant search for kinship matches.
Shortly after the DNA profiles of a mother and a sibling of a missing person were
entered into the VMPDD, a match was made to the DNA profile of an unidentified
human bone that had been discovered. The DNA evidence, together with other
information arising from the missing person investigation, culminated in the first
identification of the remains as those of the missing person by the VMPDD.
Due to the work of the VIFM’s forensic scientists in collaboration with Victoria Police,
one Victorian family was finally given some closure. We hope that other states across
Australia are able to learn from Victoria’s experience, and one day Australia can
achieve a national missing persons DNA database.
33
34
“
The DTBV’s core function is to provide Australian surgeons with
safe and effective tissue grafts for transplantation in many areas of
orthopaedic, cardiothoracic, reconstructive surgery and burn care,
benefiting many Australian citizens every year.
Established in 1989, the Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria
(DTBV) was the first, and remains the only, multi-tissue
bank in Australasia. It is also the only tissue bank which
screens, processes, stores, tests and distributes multiple
types of tissue from the one facility. It is a public sector
not-for-profit operation.
The DTBV’s core function is to provide Australian
surgeons with safe and effective tissue grafts for
transplantation in many areas of orthopaedic,
cardiothoracic, reconstructive surgery and burn care,
benefiting many Australian citizens every year.
Tissue donation
Amongst the key findings of the Review was the
complexity of the chain of events from tissue donation to
transplantation, and that the increasingly un-met demand,
in particular of tissues that can only be sourced from
deceased donors, can be overcome only by increased
donation.
The DTBV also provides forensic microbiology services to
support the coronial process.
The strategy to increase donor numbers was categorised
into a series of initiatives including:
• Strengthening the collaboration between DonateLife
Victoria and the DTBV has paralleled the invigorated
efforts towards increased organ and tissue donation
via the establishment of both the Australian Organ and
Tissue Authority and the DonateLife Network. There
has been some traction into increased donations,
in particular for cardiac tissue emanating from the
success by DonateLife Victoria in increased organ
and tissue donation following Donation after Cardiac
Death (DCD).
• DTBV can rely on a re-established team of Tissue
Donor Coordinators complementing its capacity to
identify and offer donation to families of potential
donors screened within the Coronial setting and the
wider Hospital community.
• Increased levels of communication with the Coroner’s
Initial Investigation Office. DTBV continues to receive
privileged access to the coronial system to screen for
potential tissue donors. The DTBV acknowledges the
Coroners Court of Victoria’s ongoing support of organ
and tissue donation.
Business Review and Implementation of
Recommendations
All these activities are of course underpinned by the
ongoing generosity of our donors and their families who
support the program at an often difficult time.
DTBV also facilitates access to corneas for the Lions
Corneal Donation Service and our services extend to
assisting researchers who require access to human tissue
for the completion of ethically approved research projects.
This is work that allows us to contribute to both directly
advancing health care and also to facilitate the post
graduate teaching of medical specialists.
The Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria offers relatives the
opportunity to salvage something positive from the tragic
loss of someone they loved. The DTBV also provides a
living donor program where people undergoing routine
hip replacement can donate, for transplant, the otherwise
discarded bone removed during the surgery. The Bank’s
operations are overseen by the VIFM Ethics Committee
and an advisory board with an emphasis on quality
and safety.
In mid-2010, the DTBV Business Review reported on
the root causes of the DTBV financial deficit, established
short, mid and long term turnaround strategies, and
identified the best future arrangements for a sustainable
future for the DTBV.
The review of the DTBV involved a thorough reexamination of the key aspects of the entire DTBV
operation. The review encompassed the market analysis
and potential to grow DTBV revenue, the operating model
and current finances, organisational structure and staff,
cost and productivity, operating risks, and governance of
the DTBV.
This report, and the independent consultant reports,
provided convincing evidence that the DTBV, as an
important, complex and unique contributor to the tissue
donation and transplantation sector in Victoria and
beyond, should be structurally better positioned to deliver
sustainable and improved outcomes.
A set of recommendations emanated from the Business
Review and were progressed through the Business
Review Implementation Group, chaired initially by the
Chief Operating Officer, Mari-Ann Scott and later by the
Chief Finance Officer, Peter Ford.
Although there has been decline in the deceased donor
program, there was over the year significant efforts to
boost the Living Donor Program resulting in a record
number of Femoral Head donations from individuals
undergoing hip replacements (the affected hip bone
otherwise discarded as surgical waste). The program
enrols suitable donors that pre-operatively consent for
the removed tissue to be donated to the DTBV; once
screened, processed, tested and released these tissues
can provide significant amounts of bone allografts for
use in orthopaedic surgery. The DTBV is grateful for the
support received from the staff of more than 20 local and
regional Victorian hospitals engaged in the program and
of course by the thoughtfulness and generosity of these
bone donors.
35
36
Tissue for Research Program
Total Donors 2008 to 2011
The DTBV’s Tissue Donor Coordinators have traditionally
facilitated researchers to access donated human tissues.
Projects are first approved by the VIFM Ethics Committee
and donor families are fully informed of the use and
expected outcomes of the research project as part of the
informed consent process. The program had to be put on
hold for a period of time due to a shortage of staff but is
once again operational.
800
700
600
500
400
DTBV Replacement facility
300
200
100
0
Cadaveric Donors
2008/09
Living Donor Bone Program
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
66
54
53
464
622
670
CADAVERIC
LDBP
2010/11
2009/10
Tissue grafts supplied for transplantation
Demand has surpassed availability of tissues, in particular
for cardiac valves and skin. Despite shortfalls, the DTBV
was able to provide graft to benefit more than 700
recipients in Victoria and across Australia.
Tissue supplied by year 2008–2011
1000
800
600
400
200
0
Cardiac
2008/09
Skin
Musculoskeletal
2009/10
2010/11
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
56
25
20
Skin
970
363
241
Musculoskeletal
656
553
560
Cardiac
In January 2009, Commonwealth allocated $13 million
for VIFM to build a replacement facility for the DTBV. The
state-of-the-art facility will enable increased production of
currently processed tissues as well as the implementation
of the vision for the DTBV as a translation platform
for incoming biotechnology enhanced tissue and cell
products. The increased capacity will allow for improved
skin storage capacity and eventually contribute, it is
hoped, to a national program geared to secure a resource
for mass casualties involving large numbers of burned
individuals. Following the Black Saturday bushfires,
allograft skin had to be imported from the US to
meet demand.
The building works for this replacement facility have
started. As much as welcome, the early stages have
caused significant disruption resulting in major efforts
to ensure that practices remain compliant with the
requirements of the Therapeutic Goods Administration.
A stand-alone Temporary Clean Room has been installed
and commissioned to reduce as much as possible
any disruption to tissue processing and has enabled
ongoing service provision as a result of temporary
decommissioning or altering of the existing plant and
processing rooms.
Myles’ Legacy
Our son Myles was 15 when he passed away from complications from a cardio-respiratory
arrest, brought on by an asthma attack. He was in a coma for three weeks from which
he never woke up. But our story, which culminated in Myles’ becoming a tissue donor,
started well before his passing.
From the time he was born, Myles possessed a charming and caring disposition which
he carried all his life, endearing him to all his family, friends, work colleagues and almost
everyone he came into contact with. We used the adage “Myles & Myles of Smiles” and he
would light up a room when he entered it. He was sometimes wise beyond his years and
we put this down to facing a life that was markedly different from most others his age.
He endured much in his young life: eczema (being completely wet dressed up until he was
about 18 months), life threatening food allergies, asthma and eventually osteoporosis
in his spine. In a lot of ways, he made the job of looking after him easier, as he never
complained or questioned why but just got on with the task of making the most of what
he had. His attitude was always to do what you could with what you had; an attribute we
believe resulted from the long periods of inactivity he endured while in hospital.
Many of father’s family suffer from polycystic kidney disease with five out of nine children
diagnosed with this inherited condition. Despite having to endure dialysis for
7 hours, 3 times a week all held down full time jobs, raised families and were contributing
members of their communities. We would see the difficulties that this disease presented
each time we would visit and saw their health deteriorate. Eventually all made it onto
transplant lists and the wait began. It was some years later my aunt was offered a
transplant, and then over the years they all were accorded this “gift” for which they were
truly grateful.
For us, the difference the organ transplants made to their lives and to that of their
families was remarkable and led to many conversations within our family about organ
donation. The years passed and there were discussions, each time delving deeper into the
logistics of organ donation. We all signed up to become organ donors, but Myles was most
indignant when he found out that he could not sign his own consent form because he was
under 16 years of age.
His general simplistic view (as only a child can put it) was that if he didn’t need
something, then he was happy for someone else to use it. I guess this demonstrated more
of his “giving” nature. Towards the end, when we had decided to keep Myles comfortable
and pain free, we contacted the Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria. We knew his wishes and
wanted to ensure that they were carried out. It was to be the most intricate conversation
of my life. We were introduced to a Donor Tissue Coordinator who guided us through the
process in such a professional and compassionate manner at a most difficult time in our
lives. I would imagine that that this empathy and compassion would be traits for all the
staff who work at the DTBV.
It was ultimately Myles’ own decision to donate his corneas, tissue, heart valves and skin
to the DTBV. Having made up his mind to become a donor at a time when we assumed the
actuality would be in the distant future, it made the decision easier when we were faced
with the harsh reality only some months later.
Our son, through a set of circumstances is no longer with us, but by donating his corneas,
heart valves, tissue and skin, a little piece of him lives on somewhere with someone. The
thought of this can sometimes be overwhelming, but it also brings us comfort to know that
in his short life he has made a real difference to other’s lives.
He always said that this was, “the ultimate form of recycling”.
Myles lived his life one day at a time and packed a whole lot of loving and living into
those 15 years. His real legacy to us will be to remind us that life is too short to make
excuses. He dealt with difficult conversations and situations almost all of his life but if his
experience can inspire other families to also have these conversations and to make their
wishes known to other family members, it can only lead to positive outcomes.
VIFM would like to sincerely thank Cynthia Caruana for allowing us to include her son’s inspiring story in this report.
37
38
Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University
“
…the Institute, together with the Department of Forensic Medicine, has
produced many significant research findings that have contributed to death
and injury prevention and public health benefits.
The legislation under which the Institute was established,
and the mission which guides its strategic direction,
require the VIFM to undertake teaching and research in a
wide range of forensic medical and scientific disciplines.
Strong academic performance underpins the Institute’s
credibility in the courts, the justice and health care
systems and in the wider community.
• Re-establishment of the fortnightly Thursday lecture
series
• Placement of three public health trainees – Dr Angela
Rintoul (oxycodone deaths) and Dr Chebi Kipsaina
(mortuary data); and Dr Eeshara Kottegoda Vithana
(mortuary data).
The Department of Forensic Medicine (DFM),
Monash University is the only academic department
of its kind in Australia. The fact that it exists in parallel
with an operational forensic medical service makes it
particularly special.
Support and oversight of postgraduate
students
At its inception in 1988, the Government viewed the
Institute, with its connection with the DFM, as an
“investment in public health” and the DFM was charged
with the responsibility to act as the teaching and research
arm of the Institute. Seven of the ten objects in Section
64(2) of the VIFM Act 1985 relates to training, teaching
and research.
Since then the Institute, together with the DFM, has
produced many significant research findings that have
contributed to death and injury prevention and public
health benefits. It has also developed a significant postgraduate teaching output with the post-graduate courses
in forensic medicine producing 62 graduates over 10
years. There have been almost 50 Bachelor of Science
(honours) and Bachelor of Medical Science graduates,
and almost 20 post-graduate degrees by research
including doctors of philosophy (PhD), many of whom
have stayed to work with us at the Institute. There have
been over 500 publications in this time covering a variety
of themes related to forensic medicine and science.
Within Monash University, the Department is part of
School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine (headed
by Professor John McNeil). This School gathers together
the Medical Faculty’s assets in public health and is
comprised of the DFM, Department of Epidemiology and
Preventive Medicine (DEPM), Department of Health Social
Science (DHSS), components of the former Monash
Institute for Health Services Research (MIHSR), the Centre
for Obesity Research and Education (CORE), and the
Michael Kirby Centre for Public Health and Human Rights.
Achievements for the year
There have been a number of notable achievements for
the DFM during 2010–2011 including:
• An external review which endorsed the Master
of Forensic Medicine course recommended its
reaccreditation for a further 5 years
• The establishment of regular scientific meetings
covering themes to assist in the development of
staff to undertake research and to increase our
research outputs
• Publication of a special edition of Forensic Science
International for 13 Victorian bushfire publications
including many from Institute staff
• Jennifer Pilgrim successfully completed her PhD
research on pharmacogenetics and adverse drug
reactions – in collaboration with Professor Angel
Carracedo in Santiago de Compostela
• Eva Saar continued her PhD on the toxicology of
antipsychotic drugs completing her work on short and
long term stability of a range of drugs and was able to
identify a degradant for olanzapine, one of the most
unstable of the antipsychotic drugs
• Janet Davey continued her PhD on forensic studies of
Graeco-Roman mummies focusing on interpretation
of CT images for traumatic injuries and post-mortem
artefacts
• Richard Bassed continued his PhD studies on the
assessment of age using CT and the development of
an improved assessment for age of maturity (18 years)
using both dental and other anatomical markers of
aging and
• Luke Rodda commenced his PhD studies in alcohol
congener analysis in a forensic context.
Vision for the future
The vision is based on four strategies:
a) to strengthen and increase the awareness and
functions of the DFM
b) to further develop and strengthen postgraduate
teaching
c) to increase the capacity to conduct and supervise
research and
d) to increase research outputs with an emphasis on
injury and death prevention and public health.
Prevention Research Services
The role of prevention research services at DFM has
been strengthened this year with the establishment of
the Prevention Research Unit (PRU) headed by Professor
Joan Ozanne-Smith and the appointment of a number
of new staff. This was made possible by research
funds ($1 million over two years) from the Institute for
Safety, Compensation and Recovery Research (ISCRR)
to continue work related fatality research previously
undertaken for WorkSafe. The PRU has also undertaken
projects for UNICEF and WHO, and has hosted Monash
University, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive
Medicine, Public Health Doctoral Fellows placements as
well as international delegations from Japan and
Sri Lanka.
39
40
Much of the focus in 2010 was on translational research
focussed on identifying substantial injury issues from
data systems and applying inter-disciplinary methods to
provide evidence-based actionable policy and countermeasure recommendations to International agencies,
governments and communities.
Of national relevance, PRU research identified an
emerging trend of oxycodone-related deaths, which
reflects similar concerning trends in the US and UK.
Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic medication used to
treat moderate to severe pain. This has been brought to
the attention of relevant authorities and published in the
scientific literature.
Also of national concern, is the substantial number
of deaths and injuries associated with motorised
mobility scooters among older persons. Research was
conducted for the Australian Competition and Consumer
Commission to inform directions for prevention at
government, design, and community levels.
Internationally, the PRU has contributed to the World
Health Organization’s role in intervention programs for
drink-driving and speeding in the cities of Suzhou and
Dalian in China, where deaths and injuries associated
with rapid motorisation have been predicted to escalate.
China is one of 10 countries undertaking similar projects
over 5 years.
The PRU was also commissioned by the WHO to
provide updated evidence on drowning prevention
and, additionally parameters and attributes of effective
swimming/survival swimming programs based on a
combination of evidence and best practice. This follows
from the identification of child drowning as the leading
cause of injury death in childhood, and a leading cause of
child death after infancy overall, in many countries.
Low and middle income countries, in particular, lack
useful data on fatal injury and the circumstances
surrounding these deaths. The PRU has collaborated,
through Monash University, with the World Health
Organization to develop a mortuary based fatal injury
surveillance system guide, for which pilot studies to trial
the system commenced in 6 countries in 2010. The
aim of this system is to provide reliable information to
governments and communities to inform injury prevention.
Teaching
Undergraduate and Graduate Entry Medical Law
Programs
The Medical Indemnity Protection Society (MIPS)/
Avant Medical Law Tutorial Program, designed and
coordinated by Associate Professor Leanna Darvall, is
now in its tenth year and is an examinable component
of the under-graduate medical curriculum at Monash
University, Clayton. It covers ten key areas of law relevant
to clinical practice and using 70 medical lawyers and
clinicians delivers small group tutorials to students in years
one, three and four of the MBBS course. In Year 5, legal
perspectives are included in a multi-disciplinary panel
examining patient safety issues. A number of Institute staff
continue to be involved in the delivery of this program.
A similar program is delivered in the Medical Law program
for Monash Malaysia. Associate Professor Darvall also
designed and co-ordinates the medical law component
of the Gippsland program which is delivered as a multidisciplinary seminar series in each year of the program.
In conjunction with the Faculty Office, Associate Professor
Darvall is currently undertaking two surveys, the first
of Monash Medical graduates to ascertain whether
the Medical Law program content is relevant to clinical
practice, the second of lawyers and clinicians to ascertain
the appropriateness of the program as an educational
tool. Findings from both surveys will inform future
development and delivery of the Medical Law program.
Under graduate teaching is also provided to medical
students at Melbourne, Monash and Deakin Universities
by A/Professor David Wells, Drs Morris Odell and
Janet Towns.
Elements of Forensic Medicine
For 22 years, the Department of Forensic Medicine
and the Faculty of Law have jointly offered teaching to
undergraduate law students in the Elements of Forensic
Medicine unit, a unique option in the Law curriculum.
Each year Emeritus Professor Louis Waller and Professor
Stephen Cordner provide current and relevant information
to students using a variety of sources. The unit continues
to be popular with 47 students enrolled in 2011.
Some of the highlights for the students were the site visit
to the Victoria Police Forensic Services Department at
Macleod and presentations by senior members of staff in
the VIFM, the Forensic Services Centre, and Forensicare.
Each year the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine
Prize for Elements of Forensic Medicine is awarded to
the student who achieves the highest mark. Sponsored
by the Department of Forensic Medicine, the $500 prize
was awarded to Ms Alison Ross for being the best
student in 2010.
41
2009
2010
2011
71
56
55
65
60
An external review of the Master of Forensic Medicine,
which is a requirement for course re-accreditation, was
conducted in late 2010. Excerpts of the reviewers’ key
findings appear below.
• ‘The Master of Forensic Medicine, which caters for
medical practitioners working (or proposing to work)
in the field of forensic medicine, is the only course of
its kind in the English-speaking world. The course fills
a unique niche in the educational domain of clinical
forensic medicine.
Monash University and VIFM should be credited
for developing this program and having sustained
• ‘The course represents the only viable and
sustainable mechanism for developing and
maintaining in-discipline academic standards within
the Asia-Pacific Region.’
The department also offers a Graduate Certificate of
Nursing (Forensic) course which is only available to
Australian students. The course consists of four core
units: Sexual Assault Nursing I and II, Understanding
Injuries, and Nursing and the Criminal Justice System
Graduate Certificate of
Nursing (Forensic)
2011
2008
67
2010
2007
Student enrolments
The course is delivered and administered well and
produces graduates with an exceptionally high
standard of training and knowledge.’
2009
Master of Forensic
Medicine
2006
Enrolments continue to remain consistent with 60
students enrolled in the various programs from all
Australian states and territories, New Zealand and
Kenya in 2011.
This innovative course is a very important
manifestation of the rich and dense collaborations
between the Faculties of Law and Medicine. It is a very
worthwhile development as clinical forensic medical
practitioners practise within the framework of ethical
and legal principles, standards and rules.
2008
Postgraduate teaching in forensic medicine was
developed over a decade ago and the Master of Forensic
Medicine continues to attract national and international
students.
it over the past several years. It is only through the
development of programs like this that the discipline
will develop some type of best practice or standard
when it comes to important considerations, like sexual
violence, in clinical forensic medicine.
2007
Postgraduate Teaching in Clinical Forensic
Medicine
Student enrolments
14
27
29
20
10
Members of Indonesian National Police, who had previously participated in VIFM training, at the VIFM as part of the DVI
response to the Black Saturday bushfires.
42
Research
The Institute continues to be a leader in research in the
field of forensic medicine and allied scientific areas.
Research included:
• adverse drug reactions of serotonin active drugs
• development of improved drug detection methods
using tandem liquid chromatography-mass
spectrometry
• use of computerised tomography (CT) in forensic
pathology for disease diagnosis
• use of CT for age estimation
• stability of antipsychotic drugs
• improvements in the isolation of DNA from degraded
remains
• assessment of European loci for identification of
human remains
• development of an anthropological database using
CT imaging.
A detailed list of research activities is included in
Appendix B.
Research Governance
The Research Advisory Committee (RAC) was established
in 2010 to assist in research governance and to develop
the strategic directions of research conducted at the
facility. By working closely with chief investigators,
the RAC assists in fostering key partnerships and
collaborations with outside researchers, research
organisations, government and in some cases industry
partners. Ensuring the appropriate dissemination of
research findings, acknowledgement of relevant parties
and protection of the VIFM’s intellectual property are
additional activities of the committee. Training and
development of researchers and graduate students is also
available via the RAC with valuable advice on structuring
projects and writing proposals.
VIFM Ethics Committee
The VIFM Ethics Committee met four times in the
2010–11 financial year. 8 applications by researchers
were considered and 7 approved. 5 of these applications
sought to use human tissue for research and 3 sought
approval to use data.
In August 2010 the Ethics Committee held a Training
Workshop on the commercialisation of research using
human tissue and the ethical issues this raises. The
Training Workshop was chaired by Dr Linda Barclay,
Department of Philosophy, Monash University and
assisted by Dr Alan Woods and Dr Buzz Palmer from the
Bernard O’Brien Institute.
The VIFM Ethics Charter has been reviewed and is
currently with the VIFM Ethics Committee members
for comment. The annual and final report templates
for researchers have been revised and a new reminder
system implemented. A much greater compliance rate
has subsequently been achieved. Letters of approval
to researchers have been revised to ensure that all
researchers understand the ethical obligations following
approval by the VIFM Ethics Committee. A new schedule
of fees for the delivery of tissue has been implemented
by the Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria (DTBV), enabling
early notice to researchers of the fees applicable to each
project. Ms Josie Boyle, Tissue Coordinator has been
assigned to the research portfolio and is working with the
Executive Officers of the VIFM Ethics Committee,
Ms Fiona Leahy and Ms Helen McKelvie, to revise
internal procedures.
There are currently 11 ethically approved research
projects requiring human tissue. 7 of these are active and
the remainder have been put on hold by the researchers.
The membership and terms of reference of the Ethics
Committee are included in Appendix C.
Importantly the committee advises the Institute’s Ethics
Committee on the scientific merit of projects, and
prioritises research projects for ethical review.
“
The Institute continues to be a leader in research in the field of forensic
medicine and allied scientific areas.
43
National Coronial Information System (NCIS)
The NCIS is managed by the Institute on behalf of the
Federal, State and Territory Governments. It is a database
housed and managed by the Institute to provide a
resource for national and international research. It is
funded by all state/territory justice departments and
specific federal agencies. There are now over 200,000
fatalities recorded on the NCIS with data from the New
Zealand coronial system soon be added to the database.
The number of papers and reports published during the
2010–11 reporting year which referenced NCIS data
included 10 articles published in academic literature, and
a similar number of annual and research reports that drew
extensively on NCIS data.
The NCIS Committee provides guidance and support
for the management of the NCIS and met twice during
2010–11. Issues covered included:
• Endorsement of processes for indigenous focused
research
• Further clarification surrounding which international
research groups should be eligible to gain direct online
access to NCIS
• Data entry issues
• The feasibility of adding a field to identify domestic
violence related fatalities.
The detailed terms of reference and membership of this
committee are included in Appendix C.
During 2010–11 the NCIS was able to contribute to the
identification of a number of previously unidentified trends
about deaths reported to a coroner (fentanyl deaths, and
suicides in particular venue type). The ability to identify
fatalities which may seem to be isolated in one state/
territory, and to bring to them to the attention of a variety
of groups which can investigate them further is the ideal
use of the NCIS as an early warning tool.
The NCIS actioned 45 requests from external groups
for mortality data about certain incidents, and death
investigation users conducted almost 17,000 searches
of the system (Table below). Twenty new third party
applications were approved for NCIS access in 2010–11,
with 83 third party access agreements in total permitting
government, researcher and non-profit agency access to
the NCIS during the 2010–11 financial year.
Data quality activities at the NCIS continued, with almost
20,000 cases individually reviewed for coding accuracy.
At the time of writing, the Victorian Department of Justice,
on behalf of the NCIS Board, is undertaking a review of
the governance of NCIS.
For more information on the NCIS, including its own
detailed Annual Report, please visit the web site at
www.ncis.org.au
NCIS system used by death investigators to extract data
Type of search
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
Query Design
2,519
3,677
4,304
Coroners Screen
3,473
4,782
3,101
Find Case screen
7,061
9,137
9,446
ABS Search Screen
29
50
30
Requests made to NCIS staff
74
75
65
13,156
17,721
16,946
TOTAL
44
International Program
VIFM has more than 20 years of experience in the
provision of forensic medical training, and actively
seeks to engage with the international forensic medical
community to develop and improve its own knowledge
and practices. Medical graduates from around the world
travel to VIFM to train with its professional staff in order to
take that knowledge and experience back to their home
countries. Institute staff also travel overseas to train, and
be trained by, forensic medical practitioners in other
countries.
VIFM International Activities 2010–11
Indonesia
VIFM was invited by the Australian Federal Police to
assist in strategic planning for the Indonesian National
Police Forensic Medical Unit at the January, 2011 ASEAN
Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) Commanders meeting.
Our training activities have covered topics as diverse
as management of victims of sexual assault, homicide
investigation, paediatric forensic medicine, advanced
forensic toxicology techniques, tissue transplantation,
Disaster Victim Identification, post-mortem radiology and
medical law.
International & Humanitarian Work
VIFM has been active in responding to natural and manmade disasters that have resulted in mass casualties in
South East Asia and the Pacific. We have had a particular
involvement where Australian citizens were victims, such
as in the Bali bombings, the Australian Embassy bombing
in Jakarta, the tsunami in Thailand and aviation crashes in
Indonesia and Papua New Guinea.
VIFM’s Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) team has also
worked in East Timor, the Solomon Islands and Fiji. The
Institute strengthens its capacity to respond to Australian
mass casualty events, teach forensic medicine and
contribute to research in the field through its international
humanitarian capacity development and DVI work.
VIFM has a number of highly specialised medical and
scientific staff who have honed and broadened their
niche skills through international humanitarian work in
testing conditions in the aftermath of human induced
(war, terrorism) or natural disasters. Our ability to rapidly
deploy the infrastructure and logistics required to manage
the large number of casualties is informed by our staff
members’ experiences in working in the aftermath of the
Bali Bombings, Kosovo following the NATO intervention,
and Thailand following the Indian Ocean Tsunami. We
saw first-hand how invaluable this international experience
was when our staff worked for three months to care for
and identify the 173 Black Saturday bushfire victims for
their families and the community.
VIFM has an established network of contacts with
forensic medical professionals throughout the Pacific
and South East Asia. We are part of a project to foster a
collaborative network of forensic institutes in Asia which
will focus on capacity development through training and
information exchange.
Above: Australian Federal Police Agent Don Craill, Executive
Director Programs, Jakarta Centre for Law Enforcement
Cooperation (JCLEC); Dr Anton Castilani, Chief of the
Department of Police Medicine, Indonesian National Police
and Professor Stephen Cordner, VIFM Director at the Asian
Disaster Victim Identification Commanders Workshop held at
JCLEC in Indonesia in January.
Africa
Japan Earthquake and Tsunami
Above: African clinicians at the Forensic Medical Investigation
of Sexual Violence Workshop run by VIFM in Namibia in
March 2011.
Pursuant to an MOU between the VIFM and ICRC, VIFM
was requested to provide advice to the ICRC in relation to
requests from the Japanese Ministry for Foreign Affairs on
possible assistance the ICRC could coordinate.
VIFM has partnered with the Australian Federal Police
(AFP) on a number of forensic medical capacity
development activities in East and South Africa as part
of a broader program to support Africa’s law and justice
systems. The facilitation of a new regional forum, the
African Network of Forensic Medicine (ANFM) by VIFM
and the AFP is aimed at building pan-African professional
and personal networks, and supporting mutual
understanding of forensic medical services, problems
and issues. The ANFM was further supported by the
AFP with the establishment of a four year scholarship
Masters of Forensic Medicine program for eight doctors
from eligible African nations which is delivered by VIFM/
Monash University.
In March VIFM delivered a week-long workshop in
Namibia on the Forensic Medical Investigation of Sexual
Assault for clinicians from eight African nations. This
was funded by the Australian Government through the
Australian Federal Police (AFP).
United Arab Emirates
VIFM provided a two week intensive Forensic Odontology
workshop for five UAE police dentists in January 2011.
VIFM undertook a Forensic Medical Capacity Assessment
and Recommendations for Improvement for the UAE
Department of Interior.
VIFM has been invited to submit a proposal to coordinate
five years of pathology training in Victoria for two to three
UAE clinicians from the Abu Dhabi Police Force.
Solomon Islands
At the request of the Truth and Reconciliation
Commission, VIFM Forensic Anthropologist, Dr Soren
Blau provided training in exhumation techniques and
grave mapping as part of an Argentine Forensic Pathology
Team (EAAF) project. Dr Malcolm Dodd (VIFM Forensic
Pathologist) also participated in the workshop and
appeared as an expert witness in a trial related to previous
exhumations.
Christchurch Earthquake DVI Response Team
VIFM sent a team to New Zealand following the
earthquake disaster to assist in the international response.
East Timor
In December 2010, the VIFM/EAAF were successful in
obtaining funding from the International Committee of the
Red Cross (ICRC) to pursue the analysis and attempted
identification of victims allegedly killed by the Indonesian
Army in 1984. To date we have positively identified one of
the eight individuals. This work is ongoing.
The VIFM in collaboration with the Argentine Forensic
Anthropology Team (EAAF) completed a three-year
AusAID funded project in East Timor in March 2011.
Members of the local police force and hospital staff were
trained in aspects of human identification. Investigations
were also undertaken to locate clandestine graves
and recover human remains. The team recovered 16
deceased individuals and identified 12. After 18 years of
not knowing the fate of their loved ones, these families
were finally able to perform the relevant funeral rites.
The project developed educational resources including A
Practical Guide for Forensic Investigators in Timor-Leste,
a DVD of 17 short films in Tetum entitled “The Attempted
Location and Identification of Human Remains”, and a one
hour cinematic documentary entitled The Search: Looking
for the Victims of Santa Cruz which documents the
process of investigating the 1991 Santa Cruz massacre.
The VIFM/EAAF continues to undertake forensic
investigations on behalf of the East Timor government
in an area alleged to have clandestine graves. To date,
two mass graves have been located and the attempted
identification of the seven deceased individuals is ongoing.
45
46
“
Our obligation to use our resources productively demands a high
standard of management practice.
Our obligation to use our resources productively demands
a high standard of management practice. Administration
Support Services includes the business management
functions of strategy, governance and risk, finance and
business services, medico-legal and policy, human
resources and organisational development, quality and
improvement, information management and technology
services, which provide support and enabling services
across the Institute.
The following details some of the key activities and
achievements for the support areas.
Highlights
The Launch of the New VIFM Website &
YouTube Channel
Building Redevelopment
Following the appointment of the John Holland Group in
November 2010 as the contractor for the building works,
we have commenced the journey of living and working
in a building which is constantly under construction.
We have moved most of our staff from one location to
another including into two on site portables to free up
space for demolition works. We have seen major parts
of our building demolished and have worked with the
builders and project managers to schedule outages of
many services including water, power and fire protection
while still maintaining our operations; and this is just the
beginning. We were happy to celebrate the opening of
our first enlarged refurbished area, molecular biology, in
June 2011.
The new VIFM website and YouTube channel was
formally launched by the Attorney General on 19 April
2011 at a morning tea. Amid a sea of blue cupcakes, The
Attorney General, the Hon Robert Clark MP, The Hon
John Coldrey QC, Chair of the VIFM Council, VIFM staff
and other members of the legal and medical fraternity
were on hand to launch the Institute into the future.
Featuring our very own YouTube Channel – VIFMTube
– the website showcases the remarkable people and
achievements the Institute. Deputy Director and Associate
Professor, David Ranson commented, “Increasingly our
patients and our families are turning to the internet for the
information they need and VIFM needs to have a strong
presence in this communication medium, one that is
comprehensive, meaningful and accessible.”
The Hon Robert Clark MP also commented on the new
website in his speech by saying, “I must commend
the innovation of putting video clips on the website.
Experience shows that different people take in information
in many different ways. That’s certainly relevant for both
jurors and the general public. Putting information in the
form of video clip is a very wise move.”
The new website will be a constantly evolving entity
which seeks to continuously improve the user’s online
experience.
Above: Launch of the new VIFM website. L–R: Associate
Professor David Ranson, The Hon John Coldrey QC, The
Hon Robert Clark MP and Professor Stephen Cordner.
Above: Molecular Biology Lab Opening. The Hon John
Coldrey QC and Dr Dadna Hartman cut the ‘double
helix’ ribbon and officially declared the Molecular Biology
Laboratory open.
Quality & Improvement
The Institute recognises the importance quality systems to
achieve our vision of excellence.
In this reporting year, the organisational structure of
the Quality and Improvement team was remodelled
to improve the way the Institute’s Integrated Quality
Management System (iQMS) serves the individual needs
of each service area. From August 2010, each service
within the Institute has a dedicated Quality & System
Improvement Officer. This restructuring aims to give each
Officer a better operational understanding of their service
area while maintaining their independence and objectivity
by continuing to report to the Manager of Quality and
Improvement. During the year, Ms Frances Adamas was
appointed Manager of Quality and Improvement.
A VIFM Quality Framework was also designed and
implemented to further support the integrated quality
management system. The framework is based upon
the quality principles of the code of Good Manufacturing
Practice from the Pharmaceutical Inspection Cooperation
Scheme that can be applied across all sections of
the Institute in a way that enhances current licensing,
accreditation and certification requirements.
47
48
Recruitment of a new group of sessional auditors gave
staff the opportunity to learn auditing and peer-auditing
skills to benefit the VIFM’s laboratories.
The Quality & Improvement Section, along with the DTBV
and Australasian Tissue Banking Forum were heavily
involved in the consultation process of the development
of the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s (TGA) updated
code of GMP for Human Blood and Blood Components,
Human Tissues and Human Cellular Therapies and
associated Standards for the Tissue Banking Sector.
This code was implemented nationally in conjunction with
the new TGA Biologicals Framework on 31 May 2011.
The Implementation of the VIFM Quality Framework
and Quality Management System in Clinical Forensic
Medicine has provided a basis for engagement with
the Australasian Association of Forensic Physicians and
NATA to develop a NATA Clinical Forensic Medicine
Accreditation. We look forward to continuing development
in this area.
Quality Assurance Programs
The VIFM’s laboratories continued to test their proficiency
against those of other laboratories through participation
in the Quality Assurance Programs (QAP) organised by
independent external organisations A total number of 66
Quality Assurance Programs were received and analysed
by the various areas of Institute during this reporting year.
This included quantitative and qualitative testing of various
aspects of the service relevant to each section, the table
below shows the number of QAPs participated in by the
individual laboratories and the testing areas assessed by
the QAP organisations. New to the VIFM 2010–11 QAP
program activity is the participation of the pathologists as
individuals in the RCPA Forensic Pathology Program.
External Audits
The DTBV was audited by the TGA in July 2010 and
granted continuing license to manufacture human tissue
for transplantation and the Microbiology lab ongoing
license as a Testing Laboratory Blood Tissue and Cellular.
Administration and Support Services and the NCIS
were granted ongoing certification to ISO 9001:2008 in
December 2010.
The 18 month cycle of NATA audits means that VIFM
did not undergo audit in FSS, Forensic Pathology or
Microbiology the last 12 months.
These audit results are an indicator that VIFM’s quality
system continues to be compliant to our licensing,
accreditation and certification requirements.
Internal Audits
The approach to internal auditing has shifted to a
quality risk-based approach based on the internationally
harmonised ICH 9 guidelines. There were 22 internal
audits conducted for this period across the Institute.
The audits confirmed the high level of compliance to
standards but also identified a number of opportunities for
improvements across the Institute in the following areas:
• Staff training records
• Updating documentation
• Reports
Number of Quality Assurance Programs
Section
Testing Areas
Number
QAP’s
Forensic Pathology
Anatomical pathology(general and forensic), Autopsy Program and Neuropathology
20
Histology
Technical Modules
3
Microbiology
Bacteriology and serology
23
Molecular Biology
Parentage Testing and CTS DNA Profiling
5
Toxicology
Forensic Toxicology, Blood Oximetry, Blood Alcohol testing, Drugs in Driving,
Australasian Forensic Toxicology Program, Oral Fluid and Ketamine in hair
15
49
Continuous Improvement Request and Corrective
Action (CIRCA)
The CIRCA system plays an integral role in identifying
systemic issues and trends across the organisation.
This year, 266 electronic CIRCAs were raised by staff
compared with 168 last year. The increase in reporting
of safety incidents, particularly near misses and issues
relating to internal service, is an indication that staff
are better identifying and taking up opportunities for
improvement. OHSE issues have increased significantly
in direct response to the building redevelopment works.
A change in the way that external audit findings are being
reported has resulted in a significant increase in audit
CIRCAs. Audit findings were broken down and reported
as individual findings so as to better incorporate and
identify issue trends rather than indicate a routine external
audit. Overall, an improved culture of issue and incident
reporting combined with a better defined breakdown
of the issues identified ensures improved reporting
capabilities and risk management.
Technology Services
This is made up of the service areas of information
technology, the VIFM Library and forensic imaging.
Information Technology (IT)
2010–11 was a year of significant change and innovation
by the IT department. The delivery of some major
projects placed the Institute at the cutting edge of its
supporting technology, with improved availability, security,
performance and efficiency, as well as building a platform
with scope for continuous improvement.
Service
The growth of the Institute has led to an increased
reliance on the IT Service Desk – over 3,400 requests
were completed in this reporting year, and with the
addition of key staff looking after this role, our KPI of 80%
of tickets closed within 2 days was achieved.
Infrastructure
• A program of consolidation was completed with the
migration of the Windows server infrastructure to a
virtualised and replicated environment
• VIFM staff were migrated to the Lotus Notes
platform, which was a huge undertaking which
included a migration of staff email addresses to a
more meaningful and professional format: firstname.
lastname@vifm.org
• A PC replacement program was initiated, along
with a planned upgrade of desktop operating
systems to simplify provisioning and increase
security of our systems
• A new webserver was commissioned to host the
revamped www.vifm.org website that was released
in April. The webserver has been configured in order
to consolidate our entire external and internal web
serving needs
• As a result of the redevelopment, all of VIFM’s
server and networking infrastructure was moved in
November 2010 which was a significant process. A
well planned project carried out by many members of
the IT team ensured minimal impact on the business
with all work being carried out over one weekend.
Number and type of lodged CIRCAs
Category
Audit
Complaint
Compliment
Evidence handling
External service
Improvement request
Innovation
Internal service
OHSE issues
Property damage
Quality assurance program
Safety incident
TOTAL
2008/09
5
13
3
10
7
10
1
19
1
0
1
30
154
2009/10
9
10
3
10
2
6
0
26
2
1
0
30
168
2010/11
41
20
8
26
21
25
0
56
24
0
0
45
266
50
Development
• During the 2010–2011 financial year, two major
versions and two minor versions of the iCMS were
released
• The iCMS 7 / CourtView project has been a major
development project involving liaison with CCoV and
VIFM staff at many levels. The change management
has also included analysis of requirements,
development, communication and training
• NCIS Version 5, 5.1 and 5.2 were released, as well
as an update of the NCIS system to allow for coronial
data from New Zealand.
Innovation
• The introduction of support for iPhone/iPad devices
remotely, and also the creation of a fully functional
webmail system have enabled staff to perform more of
their roles wherever they are in the world
• To support a requirement for mobile computing in
the laboratory and mortuary environments, a wireless
network was designed and installed
• Development of an iPad ‘App’ which addressed
evidence traceability concerns in the mortuary was
also completed and is scheduled for rollout in
July 2011.
Security
• Access to the Institute Case Management System
(iCMS) has been tailored into a more role-based
system with simplified approval and provisioning
mechanisms
• Server security has been strengthened with
redundancy and an anti-hacking suite developed for
all web-based services.
Forensic Imaging
The Forensic Imaging Department continued to provide
high quality photography services to both the mortuary
and Clinical Forensic Medicine. The design and printing of
posters, presentations and other various digital imaging
services assisted many staff members in giving lectures
to both internal and external parties, as well as promoting
the Institute’s professionalism at various conferences and
symposiums throughout the world.
The role was shared during the year which brought
additional skills and innovations, including the possible use
of infra-red photography within the mortuary environment
for forensic purposes.
Institute Library
The small, focused collection reflects the areas of
activity and changes in interest of research carried
out at the Institute. This includes Forensic Pathology,
Clinical Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Forensic
Odontology, Forensic Anthropology, Forensic Entomology,
Injury Prevention, Expert Evidence, Human Rights,
Medical Ethics, Medical Law and Tissue Donation. 50
books and reports were added to the Institute Library
collection during the year.
During the year, the Library has supported the core
services and research activities of the Institute by
providing 1,234 document delivery requests to staff and
students, compared with the previous year of 1164, and
conducted 55 literature searches for staff. We also fulfilled
147 requests from other libraries. This figure is less than
previous years reflecting the rationalised journal holdings
and the limited access to the library collection during the
redevelopment of the Coronial Services Centre.
Human Resource Management and
Organisational Development
The work of Human Resources & Organisational
Development is guided by a mission to play a key role
in supporting VIFM leadership, department heads and
staff in the achievement of departmental goals and
VIFM’s strategic goals. The Department is committed to
recruiting, selecting, developing, rewarding, and retaining,
the highest quality workforce attainable and provides
quality human resources services with integrity, objectivity,
responsiveness, sensitivity, and confidentiality.
The Department and its operations were positively
impacted by a number of HR staff appointments which
consolidated internal operations and processes and
allowed the shift from pursuing process oriented activities
to a greater focus on proactive, value-added, strategic HR
& OD initiatives/projects.
The staff in Human Resources and Organisational
Development department invested and delivered on a
number of major projects this year. A number of these are
outlined below:
• initiatives for improved communications throughout
VIFM,
• supported the establishment of the Managers’ Action
Group (MAG),
• held a number of workshops to ensure elements of
departmental Business Plans are directly referenced
and imported into PMP (PDP) plans,
• Updated all position descriptions to include OHS and
EEO responsibilities, authorities and accountabilities
• pursued and registered interest at accessing DoJ’s
new electronic PDP system,
• Introduced e-Learning to assist staff in personal and
professional development
• rolled out numerous training programs in response to
the needs identified through internal assessment and
the Employee Attitude Survey
• developed and provided HR KPI reports updated
monthly for management and executives
• designed and introduced a new electronic induction
program for all staff
• organised two successful career sessions with over
75 students with very positive feedback in regards to
program and content
• managed end-to-end recruitment for over 25 vacant
positions across VIFM
• Reduced excessive leave balances through a targeted
campaign of auditing leave balances across the
organisation.
Finalisation of the Employee Attitude Survey
Recruitment & Selection
The biennial Employee Attitude Survey (EAS) was
conducted at by the Department of Justice in early
2010. The results were subsequently discussed in staff
presentations and the VIFM’s strengths and areas for
improvement discussed and noted.
The Institute is an equal opportunity employer (EEO),
is committed to maintaining a non-discriminatory
recruitment and selection process, and all appointments
are selected via the KSC and merit. All managers involved
in recruitment and selection processes across the
organisation are educated in the importance of
applying EEO principles when engaged in the
recruitment of new staff.
During 2010–11, there have been many initiatives
implemented as a result of the survey, as referenced in
our achievements outlined above.
ROSII Awards
The Institute acknowledges and celebrates outstanding
work by staff/ teams through ROSII Awards.
The awards are presented to staff who have
demonstrated their commitment to the Institute’s core
ROSII values: Respect, Openness, Service, Integrity and
Innovation.
The recipients of ROSII awards this year were:
Gaie Russell – Receptionist
The award was in recognition of her demonstrated
continuous and consistent delivery of friendly, respectful
efficient and professional delivery of service at the front
reception desk of the VIFM. Gaie represents and upholds
all of the VIFM values in a very demanding role.
Vicky Winship – Manager, Data and Information
Analysis
The award was in recognition of her taking on the
responsibility for co-ordinating and overseeing the redevelopment project for the Coronial Services Centre in
addition to her other responsibilities. The commitment
to the project and to fellow staff has shown through in
the efficiency of the internal moves and minimization of
negative impacts on staff.
Learning Management System (LMS)
A successful project rolled out during the year was gaining
access to the DoJ Learning Management System (LMS).
This program is in addition to on-the-job training and
training provided by internal and external providers. The
system can be accessed internally and externally by staff.
Since the introduction of LMS, 164 VIFM staff enrolled in
various online & face to face training sessions.
Professional Development
VIFM actively encourages and promotes professional
development and provides opportunities for all staff
to develop their abilities and skills in support of the
goals of VIFM and for their ongoing professional career
enhancement. Professional development and training
opportunities for staff are identified and coordinated
through a diverse range of providers at VIFM, utilising
internal, regional and national providers.
Attracting and retaining talented people within the
Institute is crucial to the successful operation of the
organisation and the services that we provide. Over the
past twelve months we successfully advertised 37 vacant
and new positions, and short-listed 724 applications.
Positions were advertised on the VIFM Web site, Intranet,
Government web site and Seek occasionally.
Exit interview analysis
A more rigorous exit interview process has been
introduced for all staff, visitors and contractors. Since
January 2011, exit interview questionnaires have been
completed and returned for all departing staff with a copy
of their signed confidentiality agreements provided on exit.
Service Awards
Service awards recognise employees’ service to VIFM.
Awards are provided in five-year increments beginning
with the tenth year of service.
10 Years
Caroline Rosenberg, Karen Lee, Natalie Morgan, Danielle
Mclean, Noelle Large
15 Years
Carole Spence, David Wells, Kellie Hamilton
20 Years
Luba Pylnik, Brian Lloyd, Maria Pricone, Dimitri
Gerostamoulos External Recognition
Professor Olaf Drummer, Dr Soren Blau, Dr Dimitri
Gerostamoulos, Dr Jodie Leditschke and Dr Dadna
Hartman were successfully nominated to be Founding
Fellows of the Faculty of Science, Royal College of
Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA).
51
52
Occupational Health & Environment
Safety
The focus for 2010–11 has been to engage all staff in
issues of safety. This focus started with the introduction of
a quarterly hazard inspection checklist to be completed in
each business area. The intention of these checklists is to
keep abreast of housekeeping issues that arise during the
redevelopment and to encourage staff to become more
aware of their changing environment.
All VIFM managers attended a one day Managers OHS
training course conducted by Department of Justice. The
training covered areas such as safety in the workplace
and staff and manager responsibilities. New managers to
VIFM will be required to undertake this training. In addition
the VIFM purchased access to the Workplace Safety
Australia website. The access is open to all staff to use as
it is a great on-line resource for obtaining information on
safety issues and legislation.
Other safety issues which were addressed this year
include:
• Printer Toners – are they safe?
• Decanting Chemicals Safely
• New WorkSafe campaign “Victorian workers returning
home safe every day”
• Safety Conference information
• Bullying reform
• New Safety website: Workplace safety Australia
Health and Well-Being
Fitness Programs
The VIFM participated in two fitness programs which are
designed to make people aware of and increase their
daily activity: Global Corporate Challenge and Monash’s
10,000 steps.
Staff Vaccinations
To ensure staff are protected against the yearly flu,
Provax attended on site on 2 occasions to vaccinate
approximately 60 staff members. In additional vaccination
of Pertussis (Whooping Cough) was also provided for
pathology staff.
Onsite Spinal Assessment
The movement of people in to new desks and office
areas highlighted the need to reassess workstations
and ergonomics. In response to this, free on-site
spinal and posture assessments were offered to all
staff. Approximately 60 staff elected to undertake the
assessment which gave individuals insight in to the health
of their spine. Many staff also attended a lunch time
seminar by a Chiropractor to encourage staff to review
their ergonomics and posture both in the workplace
and at home.
First Aid Kits
A process of ensuring the first aid kits are restocked was
introduced. The first aid kits on site are now restocked
twice a year in May and November by St Johns. There are
15 first aid kits at various locations around the VIFM and
4 car kits.
Employee Assistance Program
The Employee Assistance Program offered though
PPC Worldwide continued its services to staff at the
VIFM throughout the year. VIFM staff have access to
counsellors to discuss personal and work related
issues in a confidential environment 24 hours a day,
7 day a week.
Training and Education
Hazardous Substances and Dangerous Goods
Training
Training was conducted on site on the 21 March 2011
by Hazcon. The session was attended by 19 people from
across areas of the VIFM.
ChemGold 3 Program and Training
In January 2011, the VIFM purchased an upgrade to
the chemical management on-line system previously
Chemwatch to ChemGold 3. Ten staff members from
across the VIFM undertook training in the new program
to become responsible for chemical management within
their work areas.
WorkSafe
In April 2010, WorkSafe determined that there are manual
handling risks associated with the current mortuary
racking. In response to this, VIFM made engineering
changes to the racking that eliminated the high force risk.
These changes were accepted by WorkSafe in
November 2010.
The number of safety incidents reported in 2010–11 was
51, an increase of 7 incidents on the year prior (refer to
table 1 for incident rates comparisons since 2007). Each
incident was investigated and in many cases changes
were implemented to ensure continual improvement and
increased safety.
Six reported incidents can be directly linked to the
impact of the redevelopment. Four incidents relate to the
smells of smoke and diesel or poor air quality related to
building and soil remediation works. One incident relates
to a noise complaint from staff whilst concrete drilling
was being undertaken. An independent noise assessor
determined the noise levels were an irritant, however
within safe levels. The relocation of the compactus for use
in the temporary library was identified as a hazard as its
initial installation was unstable rendering it unsafe for use.
After modifications, the compactus was resumed to a
safe working manner. Whilst these incidents were found
not to have posed any safety threat to staff, their
reporting indicates a proactive approach to potentially
unsafe events.
The reporting of near misses is a positive indication
that staff value the process of incident reporting as an
important prevention measure. Of the 5 reported near
misses, one related to the incorrect disposal of glass with
in the laboratory environment. This indicated a gap in
some staff training and a reminder of safe glass disposal
was given in a team meeting.
Needle stick and incised injuries continue to be a
significant source of incidents in the mortuary and Donor
Tissue Bank of Victoria areas. A sharps training package
has been developed that will be annually given to staff
in these areas as a reminder of good sharps handling
practise. New and improved cut and stab resistant gloves
continue to be trialled in the mortuary as technology in this
area advances.
Musculoskeletal incidents such as strain and sprains have
contributed to the incident rate in the mortuary. In August
of 2010 a policy of only transferring deceased persons
using the ceiling mounted lifters was introduced. Forensic
Technical staff received task specific manual handling
training from a physiotherapist/ergonomist and a manual
handling training package was developed to ensure staff
are reminded and retrained on the safe manual handling
principles.
There was one reportable incident to WorkSafe, when
the lift doors malfunctioned, resulting in a person being
contained in the lift until the doors were manually opened.
WorkSafe did not investigate this incident, however
internal investigations revealed the malfunction occurred
within a couple of hours of the lift being serviced. The
Service company rectified the lift fault.
2009/10
2010/11
Burn
2008/09
Type of Incident
2007/08
Table: 1 Type and Number of Incidents reported
staff in 2010–11 compared to previous years
-
-
1
0
4
2
0
Bruise
Facilities Management
Maintenance of the property is a priority to enable
effective and efficient business processes and contributes
to the safety and wellbeing of our staff. This year has
been an extremely busy one with the ongoing building
redevelopment which imposes a substantial extra load on
the shoulders of our Facilities Management Officer,
Mr Jim Cosentino. During 2010–11, Facilities
Management received 822 maintenance requests as
compared with 756 last year.
Coronial Services Centre Social Club
The CSC Social Club is an integral part of the culture of
the VIFM. The CSC Social club endeavours to provide
a wide range of events and activities to cater to all staff.
Some of the successful events organised and heavily
subsidised by the Social Club included:
• Mingles – on the last Friday of each month, staff get
together after work to “mingle” over refreshments at
various Melbourne watering holes.
• Mingle Breakfasts – Members are treated to a
delicious breakfast and a chance to socialise before
work.
• Healthy Lunches – Three times a year, the Social Club
provides a healthy lunch for all staff.
• Cake Day – Every fortnight, “celebrity chefs” bake up
a storm. Proceeds from the sales of baked goods
support the Social Club and various charities.
• Zoo Twilight – Staff, family and friends enjoyed Leo
Sayer at an evening concert at the Melbourne Zoo at
subsidised ticket prices.
• Winery Tour
• Mid-Year Function – Dinner at Post Deng restaurant.
• Hairspray the Musical
• The VIFM Christmas Party – Story Bar at Queen’s Loft
• Food and Wine Festival – subsidised lunch at Walter’s
Wine Bar.
• Footy Tipping
Cut / puncture
5
13
11
9
Fall
2
-
3
0
Fire
1
1
Fumes/Odour
1
1
Hazard
7
1
2
Fundraising
Knock
-
-
0
Oxfam Pakistan Floods, October 2010 – Raised $595
Near Miss
4
5
9
5
Needle stick
5
6
7
9
QLD/Vic Floods Fundraiser Cake Day and BBQ, Jan 2011
– Raised $900
Other
1
2
1
6
Oxfam Walk Fundraiser Cake Day, March 2011.
Personal Safety / Threat
-
-
1
Property damage
-
1
0
FaceBook
Slip
1
-
5
4
Splash
3
1
1
3
Sprain
3
4
Strain
5
TOTAL Number
38
Reportable to WorkSafe
39
0
1
6
The Social Club page on Facebook has been
reinvigorated. This allows past staff members to keep in
contact and attend social club events such as Mingles.
2
1
3
42
50
2
1
51
53
54
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
“
Established in 1987, the Institute exists to promote, improve and sustain
forensic medicine and related disciplines through its service delivery,
integrated teaching and research functions.
Our Governance
The Institute Council
This year saw the development of a new Council Charter
which provided for a revised and updated Council’s
roles and responsibilities statement and more specific
information around meeting rules and procedures.
The Charter also provided for a more comprehensive
guidance to Council members on their individual roles and
responsibilities. In developing the new Charter, we drew
heavily on the standards and guidance provided by the
State Services Authority.
At VIFM there is a Governor-in-Council appointed Board
of Management, known as the VIFM Council. The Council
is the governing body of the Institute and is constituted
under the VIFM Act.
The two key Council Committees (Executive and Finance
and Audit and Risk Management sub-committees) also
had their Terms of Reference updated.
Our Guiding Principles for Corporate
Governance
VIFM Council has adopted the following guiding principles
of corporate governance:
• Lay solid foundations for management and oversight
• Structure the Council to add value
• Actively promote ethical and responsible decisionmaking
• Have a structure to independently verify and safeguard
the integrity of the Institute’s financial reporting
• Recognise legal and other obligations to all key
stakeholders
• Establish a sound system of risk oversight,
management and internal controls.
Establishment of VIFM and Guiding
Legislation
The Institute is established under section 64 of the
VIFM Act 1985. The Institute is bound by this and other
statutory instruments, including, but not limited to the
Coroners Act 2008, Human Tissue Act 1982, the Public
Administration Act 2004 and the Financial Management
Act 1994 which govern its functions and practices. Under
these instruments, the Institute provides forensic medical
and scientific services, tissue transplant services, and
teaching and research.
Established in 1987, the Institute exists to promote,
improve and sustain forensic medicine and related
disciplines through its service delivery, integrated
teaching and research functions. Twenty years from its
beginnings, VIFM:
• provides independent forensic medical and scientific
services to the Victorian public and justice system;
• facilitates increased knowledge through teaching and
research; and
• enables the provision of high quality human tissue
grafts for transplantation.
VIFM’s formal independence is vital in the provision of
these functions.
Council Composition
The Council comprises 12 members, 10 of whom are
appointed by the Governor in Council as follows:
a) the Director of the Institute (ex officio);
b) the State Coroner (ex officio);
c) a nominee of the Council of the University of
Melbourne;
d) a nominee of the Council of Monash University;
e) a nominee of the Minister for the time being
administering the Health Services Act 1988;
f) a nominee of the Minister for the time being
administering the Police Regulation Act 1958;
g) a nominee of the Chief Justice;
h) two nominees of the Attorney-General, at least one of
whom is a Fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists
of Australasia;
i) a nominee of the Chief Commissioner of Police;
j) a nominee of the Minister for the time being
administering Part II of the Community Services Act
1970; and
k) a nominee of the Minister for the time being
responsible for women’s affairs in Victoria.
The Chairman is appointed by the Attorney General from
the Council members.
In addition to these Council members, the Institute’s Chief
Operating Officer and an external invited member of the
Council’s Executive and Finance and Audit Committees
attend Council meetings.
55
56
Council Members
The Hon John Coldrey, QC
Chairperson, nominee of the Attorney General
Since becoming a barrister in 1966 John Coldrey has
contributed to many different areas of the legal profession
throughout Australia. Following his appointment as the
Director of Public Prosecutions for Victoria in 1984 he
became a Justice of the Victorian Supreme Court in 1991
where he served until 2008. He was also active in the
Northern Territory where in his role as the Director of Legal
Services for the Central Land Council he was involved in
the grant of Aboriginal title to Uluru as well conducting
Aboriginal land claims and negotiating major industry
agreements with the Northern Territory Government and
mining companies.
John Coldrey has written numerous major conference
papers and legal publications relating to the operation
of the criminal law. He has been a member of
various committees and councils including chairing
the Consultative Committee on Police Powers of
Investigation. In 2004, John Coldrey was awarded
the Gold Medal of the International Society for Reform
of Criminal Law (of which he is a Board member) in
recognition of his contribution towards criminal law
reform. He is currently a judicial member of the Adult
Parole Board. He joined the Victorian Institute of Forensic
Medicine Council in 2008.
Peter Allen, Deputy Dean, the Australia & New
Zealand School of Government, Nominee of the
Minister of Health
Peter Allen is Deputy Dean of the Australia and New
Zealand School of Government and Victoria’s Public
Sector Standards Commissioner. Previous appointments
included Under Secretary in the Department of Human
Services, the Victorian Government’s Chief Drug Strategy
Officer, Secretary of the Department of Education,
Secretary of the Department of Tourism, Sport and the
Commonwealth Games, Director of Schools, and senior
roles in the Departments of Health and Community
Hon John Coldrey, QC
Peter Allen
Services. Between 2001–03 he was a Vice-Chancellor’s
Fellow at the University of Melbourne. He is also Chair
of the Management Committee of the Australian Health
Practitioner Regulation Agency, Vice President of the
Institute of Public Administration Australia and Vice
President of the Victorian Division of the Institute of
Public Administration.
Professor James A Angus, Dean of the Faculty of
Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences,
University of Melbourne, Nominee of the University
of Melbourne
James Angus was appointed Dean of the Faculty
of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences at the
University of Melbourne in July 2003. Before becoming
Dean, he was Professor and Head of the Department
of Pharmacology and Deputy Dean of the Faculty of
Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences. At the University
of Melbourne, Professor Angus has been President of
the Academic Board (2000-01) and Pro Vice-Chancellor
(1999–01).
Professor Angus was awarded the Gottschalk Medal of
the Australian Academy of Science (1984), is a Fellow
of the Academy (FAA) and has been a member of its
Council. In 2003 he was awarded Australia’s Centenary
Medal for contribution to Pharmacology and the
Community.
Professor Angus was a First Vice-President of the
International Union of Pharmacology (IUPHAR) and was
President of the Australasian Society of Clinical and
Experimental Pharmacologists and Toxicologists.
His current roles include President of Medical Deans
Australia and New Zealand (elected in 2009), directorships
of the Walter & Eliza Hall Institute, Bionic Ear Institute,
Mental Health Research Institute, Melbourne Health,
IJV PCCC and Victor Smorgon Institute at Epworth Pty
Ltd. He is also the honorary Secretary, Victorian Rhodes
Scholarship.
Professor James A Angus
Deputy Chief Magistrate Felicity Broughton,
Nominee of the Minister for Women’s Affairs
Deputy Chief Magistrate Broughton has served as
Victorian Magistrate since 2000, as Victims of Crime
Assistance Tribunal Supervising Magistrate from 2001
to 2004, and as Supervising Magistrate for the sexual
assault portfolio of the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria since
the establishment of the portfolio in 2006.
She is currently a member of the State Government’s
Sexual Assault Advisory Committee, the Child Witness
Service Advisory Committee and the Statewide Advisory
Committee to Prevent Sexual Assault.
From 1981 to 2000 she was a solicitor in private
practice, with particular experience in matters relating to
sexual assault, family violence and other issues relating
to violence. She served as a member of the Victorian
Community Council Against Violence from 1994 to 2007
and as a member of the Legal Professional Tribunal from
1997 to 2000. She was also a board member of the
Children’s Protection Society from 1993 to 2000 and
served as President from 1996 to 1999.
Her Honour Judge Jennifer Coate,
State Coroner, Victoria
Her Honour initially worked for four years as a teacher
in Victoria’s primary schools after completing a Teaching
Diploma at Frankston Teachers’ College. In between
completing the diploma and teaching she also
completed an Arts degree at Monash University
majoring in Linguistics and English Literature. After
teaching and travelling the world, in that order, she
returned to study full-time and completed a Law Degree
at Monash University.
After completing her Articles, Her Honour worked as
an employee solicitor and later entered a partnership
practising in Fitzroy and East Melbourne in family law,
criminal law, crimes compensation and Children’s Court
work. After selling the practices she worked as a duty
lawyer for the Legal Aid Commission, then in Policy and
Research in the Attorney-General’s Department before
being appointed as a Magistrate in March 1992.
Deputy Chief Magistrate
Felicity Broughton
Judge Jennifer Coate
In December 1995, Her Honour took up an appointment
as the Senior Magistrate at the Children’s Court and in
September 1996 was promoted to the position of Deputy
Chief Magistrate.
On 23 June 2000, Her Honour was appointed as a judge
of the County Court and on 26 June 2000 as the first
President of the Children’s Court of Victoria.
In October 2001, Her Honour was appointed as a
part-time Commissioner to the Victorian Law Reform
Commission.
Her Honour commenced sitting at the County Court on a
full time basis in April 2006. Her Honour was appointed as
the State Coroner on 29 November 2007.
Professor Robert Conyers, Senior Consultant
Pathologist, Nominee of the Attorney-General
BSc(Hons), MB, BS, DPhil, MBL, FRCPA, FAICD,
MRACMA, MAACB, MRACI
Professor Robert Conyers is currently a Senior Consultant
Pathologist at PathCare, Geelong and holds NonExecutive Director positions as a Council member at
VIFM; and as a Board Member (Treasurer) of AMA
Victoria. He received his specialist training at Sydney
Hospital and St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney and was then
awarded a Nuffield Medical Fellowship to the University of
Oxford where he completed his DPhil on the regulation of
carbohydrate metabolism.
Returning to Australia, he was Senior Consultant
Pathologist and Head of the Metabolic research Group
at the Institute of Medical and Veterinary Science,
Adelaide. He then became the Director of Biochemistry,
Alfred Hospital and the Head of the Cardiac Metabolic
Laboratory, Baker Medical Research Institute. His
metabolic and nutritional research has been into oxalate
urolithiasis, cancer cachexia, exercise (sports) energy
metabolism and metabolic support of the heart in surgery
and transplantation.
His last position in major teaching hospitals was as
Executive Director of Pathology (1994–1998) for the
North West Health Care Network (which included Royal
Professor Robert Conyers
57
58
Melbourne and Western Hospitals). He then became
Executive (Group) Medical Director (1998–2005) for the
Gribbles Group which had pathology services across
Australia and in New Zealand and Malaysia.
He is Adjunct Professor in the Faculty of Medicine,
Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University and
has additional qualifications in business and board
directorship. He has held senior positions on major
hospital committees, in professional and scientific
associations, and on peak government advisory
committees in relation to diagnostic pathology and
animal welfare.
Professor Stephen Cordner, Director of the
Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine
Stephen was appointed Foundation Professor of Forensic
Medicine at Monash University and Director of the
Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine in 1987.
In addition to leading the Institute, in more recent years
Stephen has developed his interest in the intersection
of Forensic Medicine and Human Rights. This has
involved work in East Timor, the Former Yugoslavia,
Iraq, West Bank, Burma and, very recently, Jamaica.
He strongly believes that this work also contributes to
the Institute’s credibility and sustainability helping to
attract, and retain, the best possible people to work at
the Institute. In 2010/11, he took sabbatical leave (more
formally known as Outside Studies Program), during
which he continued the development of teaching and
training materials to further develop the forensic pathology
components of Monash’s Masters in Forensic Medicine.
He also undertook a number of overseas missions and
consultancies to Jamaica, Cambodia, Indonesia, United
Arab Emirates and Japan further developing the Institute’s
international platform.
Luke Cornelius APM, Assistant Commissioner,
Victoria Police, Nominee of the Chief
Commissioner, Victoria Police
Assistant Commissioner Luke Cornelius leads the
Southern Metropolitan Region, Victoria Police. He joined
Victoria Police as a Commander in 2003, to head its
Legal Services Department and went on to lead the
Ethical Standards Department in December 2005.
Professor
Stephen Cordner
Luke Cornelius APM
Luke assumed his current role in April 2010. Luke is
an advocate for ethical leadership and the delivery of
policing services in ways which are grounded in human
rights, display respect and accord dignity to all and which
enhance social cohesion and public safety.
Luke is also a member of the Victoria Police Leadership
Group and the Victoria Police Operations Committee.
Luke served as a Federal Agent for 14 years with the
Australian Federal Police, with roles in Drug Operations,
Legal Policy, East Timor and Human Resources,
concluding his service as their Director, People Strategies
(with the rank of Commander). Luke has also served as
the National Secretary of the Australian Federal Police
Association and was the founding Chief Executive Officer
of the Police Federation of Australia.
Luke was awarded the Australian Police Medal (APM)
in the 2010 Australia Day Honours List for distinguished
service to policing in recognition of his contribution to
police reform in the Federal Police and the Victoria Police,
the promotion of ethics and integrity in policing, human
rights, engagement with vulnerable communities and
his contribution to capacity building in East Timor. Luke
has also been awarded the National Medal, the Police
Overseas Service Medal and the United Nations Medal
for service in East Timor. He has also been awarded a
Commissioner’s commendation for outstanding service
while serving with the United Nations Transitional Authority
in East Timor.
Luke holds a Masters of Public Administration (Executive)
(Monash), an Honours Degree in Law (Flinders), a
Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (ANU) and is admitted
to practice in the ACT Supreme Court.
Mary McKinnon, Director, Department of Human
Services, Nominee of the Minister for Community
Services
Mary currently holds the position of Director, Child
Protection, Placement and Family Services within
the Department of Human Services, Victoria. Key
responsibilities include policy development, forward
planning and strategic directions for the DHS child
protection, placement and support, family violence,
sexual assault and family support services.
Mary McKinnon
Mary’s qualifications include a Bachelor of Arts in Social
Work from South Australian Institute of Technology; a
Certificate of Management in Organizational Leadership
and a Bachelor of Media Arts University of RMIT. Mary
has also completed the Executive Fellows Program for
Senior Public Sector Executives with the Australian and
New Zealand School of Government.
Prior to joining the Department of Human Services Mary
worked at Melbourne Citymission from 1995–2001.
Neil Robertson, Director, Bushfires Royal
Commission Coordination, Department of Justice,
Nominee of the Minister of Police and Emergency
Services
Neil Robertson is currently the Director, Bushfires Royal
Commission Coordination in the Department of Justice.
His role includes providing advice to the Department’s
Secretary and Minister for Bushfire Response and
supporting the State Management and Coordination
Council’s Bushfires Sub-Committee. Before his
current role, Neil was the Director, Criminal Law Policy,
Department of Justice where he led a team developing
legislative proposals for the Victorian Government.
Neil’s qualifications include a Bachelor of Arts (Honours)
and Bachelor of Laws from Monash University, Graduate
Diploma in Business Administration from Swinburne
University of Technology and Executive Masters in
Public Administration from the Australian and New
Zealand School of Government. He is also a Fellow of
the Williamson Community Leadership Program and was
awarded a Public Service Medal in the Queen’s Birthday
2011 Honours.
Neil is a member of the Institute’s Executive and Finance
and Audit and Risk Management Committees. He is also
a Director and Company Secretary of Crime Stoppers
Victoria Ltd.
Her Honour Judge Meryl Sexton, Nominee of the
Chief Justice
Judge Sexton was appointed to the County Court in
2001. Before that, she had been a Crown Prosecutor
since 1995, and from 1997 to 2001, was an Advocate
Member of the Legal Profession Tribunal.
Judge Sexton has lectured extensively on the practice
and procedure of criminal law and the sexual assault
reforms since 2006 to a variety of groups across
jurisdictions and disciplines. She has contributed to a
number of publications including editorial work on the
Benchbook of Children giving evidence in Australian
Courts (Australasian Institute of Judicial Administration
2009), and the Victorian Criminal Charge Book (Judicial
College of Victoria).
Judge Sexton was a member of the Advisory Committee
to the Victorian Law Reform Commission on Sexual
Offences: Law and Procedure, and is currently a member
of the State Government’s Sexual Assault Advisory
Committee, and a member of the Advisory Committee for
the Child Witness Service. In October 2005, she became
the inaugural Judge in Charge of the Sex Offences List in
the County Court, a position which she held for nearly 5
years. She is consulted regularly by a wide range of people
and organisations about sexual offences law and practice.
Professor Steve Wesselingh, Dean of the Faculty
of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash
University, nominee of Monash University
Professor Steve Wesselingh is currently Dean of the
Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences,
Monash University, one of Australia’s leading health
Faculties.
Prior to taking up the Deanship in October of 2007,
Professor Steve Wesselingh was Director of the Burnet
Institute (from 2002). Also based in Melbourne, the
Institute is Australia’s largest research and public health
group that specialises in infectious diseases, immunology,
and public health.
In January 1999 he was appointed Professor and Director
of the Infectious Diseases Unit, The Alfred Hospital,
Monash University.
Neil Robertson
Judge Meryl Sexton
Professor Steve Wesselingh
59
60
Attendees
Ms. Mari-Ann Scott, Chief Operating Officer,
Mr. Tim Fitzmaurice, Executive Manager Enterprise
Risk & Program Office, Transport Accident
Commission (TAC)
Tim is currently the Executive Manager Enterprise Risk &
Program Office for the Transport Accident Commission
(TAC). Tim has held a number of senior roles at the TAC in
the areas of enterprise risk and assurance management,
finance and accounting (as Chief Finance and Accounting
Officer), investments and information technology. Tim
is a qualified accountant and a fellow of the CPA. He
is also a member of Institute’s Audit and the Executive
Management Committees.
Ms. Leanna La Combre, Manager, Governance,
Strategic Projects & Risk, Victorian Institute of
Forensic Medicine.
Attendance at Council Meetings 2010–11
Council Members
4/2010
10 AUG
5/2010
12 OCT
6/2010
14 DEC
1/2011
8 FEB
2/2011
12 APR
3/2011
4 JUNE
John Coldrey (Chair)
4
4
4
4
N/A
4
Felicity Broughton
4
4
4
X
4
4
Stephen Cordner
Outside Studies Program
David Ranson (Acting Director Jun–Nov 2010)
4
4
4
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
4
4
4
N/A
Steven Wesselingh
4
4
4
X
X
4
Meryl Sexton
4
4
4
4
X
4
Jennifer Coate
X
4
X
4
4
4
Robert Conyers
4
4
4
4
4
4
James Angus
4
X
X
X
X
4
Neil Robertson
4
4
4
4
4
X
Mary McKinnon
4
X
X
4
4
4
Peter Allen
4
4
4
4
N/A
N/A
Luke Cornelius
4
X
4
4
4
X
Tim Fitzmaurice
4
4
4
4
4
4
Mari-Ann Scott
4
4
4
4
4
4
Leanna La Combre
4
4
4
4
4
4
Noel Woodford (Acting Director Dec 2010–May 2011)
In attendance:
N/A – Not Applicable
Mr. Tim Fitzmaurice
Ms. Mari-Ann Scott
Ms. Leanna La Combre
Council Sub-Committees
The Council has five sub-committees to ensure
compliance with legislative, accreditation and other
regulatory requirements.
• The Executive and Finance Committee assists the
Council in fulfilling its financial oversight responsibilities
pursuant to the Financial Management Act 1994.
• The Audit Committee is responsible for the functions
specified in the Victorian Government’s Financial
Management Compliance Guidelines.
• The Ethics Committee is established in accordance
with the National Health and Medical Research
Council Guidelines. It assesses the merits from an
ethical and scientific validity point of view of research
projects carried out at the Institute. The Ethics
Committee’s approval is typically a prerequisite
for funding and publication of medical research in
Australia.
• The National Coroners Information System (NCIS)
Committee monitors the operation of the NCIS,
oversees the provision of services by the NCIS, and
provides guidance and support necessary for the
NCIS to provide its service to the core stakeholders
(the Council, state and territory coroners, public
health and safety researchers) and any other key
stakeholders.
• The Donor Tissue Bank Advisory Board provides
advice to the Council about the operations of the
Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria.
The composition and terms of reference of these
committees is included in Appendix C.
Management Responsibility
Management’s responsibilities are to:
a)Prepare the Institute’s vision, strategic direction, goals
and KPIs for consideration, input, and approval by the
VIFM Council
b) Develop and shape policy and strategy for
consideration by the Council
c) Develop the Institute’s Strategic Plan for the input and
ratification of the Council
d) Implement and monitor policy and strategy and
e)Lead, manage and deliver forensic medical & scientific
services, tissue banking services, teaching and
research activities, and business support functions,
the combination of which enable the Institute to
achieve its mission.
The Institute’s Senior Leadership
Arrangements
The Institute’s Executive team provides the highest level of
management within the Institute and comprises:
Stephen Cordner, Director
See biography under Council above.
David Ranson, Deputy Director
David Ranson has been with the VIFM since it was
formed in 1988 and is currently the Deputy Director.
He is a specialist in Forensic Pathology & Clinical
Forensic Medicine with a strong professional interest in
Medical Law.
David graduated in Medicine from The University of
Nottingham and in Law from the University of the West of
England. He has worked at various hospitals in England
and lectured in Pathology at Bristol University. He has also
practised clinical forensic medicine as a Police Surgeon to
Avon and Somerset Constabulary.
He is a Fellow of both the Royal College of Pathologists
of Great Britain and of the Royal College of Pathologists
of Australasia. He is State Councillor for Victoria for the
latter. He holds the Diploma in Medical Jurisprudence of
the Royal Society of Apothecaries (forensic pathology). He
is a Foundation Fellow of the Australian College of Legal
Medicine and the Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine
of the Royal College of Physicians in the UK. David has
been heavily involved in establishing research units aimed
at preventing avoidable death and injury, namely the
National Coroners Information System and the Clinical
Liaison Service. He is a member of the Australian Suicide
Prevention Advisory Committee.
Mari-Ann Scott, Chief Operating Officer
Mari-Ann Scott was appointed as Head, Corporate
Services at the Institute in July 2007 before being
appointed to her current role of Chief Operating Officer
in September, 2008. She is responsible for the Institute’s
corporate functions. She is the Chief Finance and
Accounting Officer and is the Executive Officer for Council.
Prior to joining the Institute, Mari-Ann held the role
of relationship manager in the Budget and Financial
Management Division of the Department of Treasury
& Finance and before this she held a range of senior
positions in the health sector. Mari-Ann is an economist
by training. She holds a Master of Philosophy Degree in
Health Economics.
Peter Ford, Chief Finance Officer
Peter Ford joined the Institute in November 2007 as
the Manager, Finance and Business Services and was
appointed as Chief Finance Officer in November 2010.
He qualified as an accountant in the UK and was granted
Fellowship of the Association of Chartered Certified
Accountants (FCCA) in October 2010
Prior to joining the institute Peter worked in the UK and
has over 20 years of experience working in finance at a
senior level in both private and state health care sectors.
61
62
Noel Woodford, Head Forensic Pathology Services
Noel is Head of Forensic Pathology Services at the
institute. He leads a team of 10 forensic pathologists in
addition to specialists in paediatric pathology, radiology,
odontology, anthropology and entomology. Having
trained in anatomical pathology he spent time at the
Institute as a Fellow before heading to the UK where he
was appointed senior lecturer in forensic pathology at
the University of Sheffield. He returned to the Institute
7 years ago. He is a Fellow of both the Royal College
of Pathologists of Australasia and the Royal College
of Pathologists (UK), holds the Diploma of Medical
Jurisprudence from the Society of Apothecaries of
London, and gained a Master of Laws from Cardiff
University during his time in the UK. Noel is an examiner
for the RCPA and oversees the Quality Assurance
Program in Forensic Pathology for the College.
Noel has a particular interest in sudden unexpected adult
death and the application of radiological techniques in
forensic pathology.
David Wells, Head Clinical Forensic Medicine
David is head of Clinical Forensic Medicine at the Victorian
Institute of Forensic Medicine and Associate Professor in
the Departments of Forensic Medicine and Paediatrics at
Monash University.
David is a clinician who previously held the role of
Victoria Police Surgeon (1987–1994). His postgraduate
qualifications are in forensic medicine, criminology and
education. He holds honorary appointments at the
Monash Medical Centre, the Royal Children’s Hospital and
the Royal Women’s Hospital.
He was awarded a Churchill Fellowship in 1992 and in
2008 he received the Order of Australia Medal for services
to forensic medicine.
He is co-ordinator of the post graduate program in
Forensic Medicine at Monash University. His recent work
includes activities with the World Health Organisation in
Geneva and with Amnesty International in Africa, assisting
in the establishment of medico-legal services for victims of
sexual violence in developing countries.
Olaf Drummer, Head Forensic Scientific Services
Olaf is the Head (Forensic Scientific Services) and also
holds the position of Adjunct Professor in the Department
of Forensic Medicine, Monash University. He is a
forensic pharmacologist and a toxicologist and has been
involved in the analysis of drugs and poisons and in the
interpretation of their biological effects for over 30 years.
He lectures widely on this subject and has given evidence
in court in well over 200 cases. He is gazetted as an
approved expert under the Road Safety Act (1986).
He has published over 200 papers in scientific journals
and other reports and is the main author of the book
“The Forensic Pharmacology of Drugs of Abuse” (Arnold,
June 2001). He has written many chapters and other
contributions in the area of research pharmacology
and toxicology.
He is the Associate Editor (toxicology) for the journal
Forensic Science International. His formal qualifications
include a Bachelor of Applied Science (Chemistry) from
RMIT (1974) and Doctor of Philosophy in Medicine (Ph.D.)
in Pharmacology from Melbourne University (1980). He is
a member of a number of professional societies including
the Australasian Society of Clinical and Experimental
Pharmacologists and Toxicologists (ASCEPT), and the
Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI). He is an
Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists of
Australasia (RCPA). He is President of the International
Association of Forensic Toxicologists (TIAFT) (2008–2011)
and Chair of the Drugs of Abuse Committee of the
International Association of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring &
Clinical Toxicology (IATDMCT).
Marisa Herson, Head Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria
Marisa is the head of the Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria
(DTBV). Marisa was born in Brazil, where she graduated
from Medical School in 1979. She emigrated to Israel,
where she trained as a general surgeon and later as a
Plastic Surgeon. The care of burn victims became a focus
in her career early on. In 1990, she returned to Brazil to a
fellowship program in Plastic Surgery – what was planned
to be a two year training period, became a 15 year
position at the University of Sao Paulo Medical School –
Hospital das Clinicas, Plastic Surgery Department. In the
years before moving to Australia, Marisa held a clinical
appointment there as the leader of the Burn Sequelae
Reconstruction group. Earlier on, she undertook a PhD at
the University of Sao Paulo investigating the development
of an in vitro skin substitute involving cell cultures and a
dermal matrix – this later evolved into a research nucleus
into wound healing and skin substitute models and an
active role in the University department.
Her involvement in burn care highlighted the value of skin
banking and from that, it was a sensible step to undertake
the leadership in a program developed in Brazil by the
International Atomic Energy Agency which enabled the
Hospital das Clinicas to revamp the local tissue bank. The
circle was complete – the patients bringing the motivation,
the tissue bank as a source of biomaterials to improve
clinical outcomes and the research lab as an opportunity
to put different components together and bring some
answers to the many queries faced in the clinical setting.
Three years ago, tissue banking brought Marisa and her
family into Australia – a unique opportunity to join a vibrant
organization and live in a wonderful country.
(For personal reasons, Marisa resigned on June 30, 2011.
Stefan Poniatowski has been appointed Acting Head of
the DTBV).
Marisa is also a Council member of the Australian Organ
and Tissue Donation and Transplantation Authority, a
member of the Eye and Tissue Working Group of the
Authority and a member of the VIFM Ethics Committee.
63
Financial Performance
Five Year Financial Summary
($ thousand)
Year
2006/07
2007/08
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
8,146
10,394
14,841
20,980
24,008
Total income from transactions
16,420
18,702
23,912
25,777
27,815
Total expenditure from transactions
16,592
20,018
24,012
25,658
27,900
Income from Government
Net result from transactions
(171)
(1,316)
(100)
119
(84)
Net result for the period
(171)
(1,312)
(180)
133
(658)
950
(1,239)
914
554
963
10,263
11,775
13,358
14,790
17,414
3,477
4,596
5,373
6,672
7,285
Net cashflow from operating activities
Total assets
Total liabilities
30,000
Current year financial review
Overview
25,000
The Victorian Government considers the net result
from transactions to be the appropriate measure of
financial management that can be directly attributed to
government policy. This measure excludes the effects of
revaluations (holding gains or losses) arising from changes
in market prices and other changes in the volume of
assets shown under ‘other economic flows’ on the
Comprehensive operating statement, which are outside
the control of the Institute.
$’000
20,000
15,000
10,000
5,000
0
(5,000) 2006–7 2007–08 2008–09 2009–10 2010–11
Financial year
Net result from transactions
In 2010–11 the Institute achieved a net deficit result
from transactions of $84,428, $203,966 less than in
2009–10. Both Income and expenses from transactions
have increased since 2006-07 up to 2010–11 and the
net result from transactions is relatively consistent to
2008–09.
The overall net result of $657,617 is inclusive of a one
off expense related to the write down of the institues
CT scanner following a plant and equipment revaluation
review which is performed every 5 years.
Total net assets have grown with an increase of
$1.985 million in 2010–11 to $8.875 million and is
reflective of both building and plant and equipment
revaluations. The increase in operating cash inflows to
$1.117 million from last year’s $0.554 million is mainly due
to the increase in funding from State Government
64
Financial performance and business
review
The Institute’s principal output against appropriation
income is the provision of Forensic and Pathology
resources and services to the Coroners Court of Victoria.
From 2009–10 other outputs against income from
governement now include Clinical Forensic Medicine
services and related toxicology previously reported as
‘Income from the rendering of services’.
Income
Grant – Department of Justice
While the institute achieved higher total income from
transactions, the net result from transactions has derived
a deficit for the period. The additional income received
is due to increase governmant funding and has mainly
directed toward increases in staffing costs and other
operational expenses.
$
$
$
$
2007/08
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
10,394,220
14,841,440
20,980,056
24,008,203
Distribution of goods – Donor Tissue Bank
1,790,523
1,892,235
1,577,083
1,616,853
Income from the rendering of services
6,404,077
7,094,526
3,185,825
2,145,577
113,255
83,935
34,262
44,691
18,702,075
23,912,136
25,777,226
27,815,324
Interest income
20,000,000
$’000
Distribution of goods
– Donor Tissue Bank
6%
25,000,000
Income from the
rendering of services
8%
Interest income
0%
15,000,000
10,000,000
50,00,000
Grant – Department
of Justice
86%
0
2007–08
2008–09
2009–10
2010–11
Financial year
Grant – Department of Justice
Distribution of goods – Donor Tissue Bank
Income from the rendering of services
Interest income
65
Expenses from transactions have increased in line with
the additional income received. Specific funding from
government to provide forensic services have increased
both staff and other operational expenses. Expenditure
has increased in consumable cost, professional services
including temporary staff and maintenance cost.
Expenses
Employee expenses
Depreciation and amortisation
Supplies and services
Other operating expenses
Total expenditure form transactions
$
$
$
$
2007/08
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
12,827,508
14,244,919
17,503,442
18,987,143
699,818
710,327
833,220
888,793
6,473,712
9,028,546
7,303,997
8,005,404
17,203
27,902
17,030
18,412
20,018,241
24,011,694
25,657,689
27,899,752
Supplies and
services
29%
20,000,000
Other operating
expenses
0%
$’000
15,000,000
10,000,000
5,000,000
Depreciation
and amortisation
3%
Employee
expenses
68%
0
2007–08
2008–09
2009–10
2010–11
Financial year
Employee expenses
In addition the overall comprehensive result of $657,617
deficit is due to the write down of the Institutes CT
scanner. As part of the formal revaluation undertaken,
the scanner useful life was reduced and net book value
adjusted accordingly. The scanner is due to be replaced
as part of the Institutes asset replacement program in
2011–12.
Financial position – balance sheet
Net assets increased by $1.97 million primarily as a result
of building revaluations of $2.43 million and equipment
additions of to plant and equipment of $1.02 million which
were offset by plant and equipment revaluations of
$0.55 million.
The Institute has commenced an asset replacement
program which will be prioitised to replace assets which
have passed their useful lives.
Cash flows
The overall cash surplus of $2.3 million for the 2010–11
financial year was a net increase of $0.2 million compared
to the previous year.
Net cash inflows have increased as a result of increased
funding through State Government and income from
transactions classified as section 29 reciepts from
Government.
66
Legislative and Statutory Reporting
Diversity reporting
All areas of the Institute are conscious of cultural and
religious practices surrounding death which are of primary
importance to the families of the deceased. Staff of the
Institute work cooperatively with the Coroners Court
of Victoria to accommodate the cultural and religious
requirements of the family of the deceased. When
required the Institute provides for extended periods of
attendance by the families.
Skeletal remains from our indigenous community require
special handling and consideration of cultural beliefs. The
Institute works with Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, to ensure
remains and documentation are managed appropriately
and sensitively.
The Institute continues to foster workplace diversity
and demonstrates its commitment through a variety of
initiatives throughout the year. These initiatives focus
on providing education and training opportunities to
pathologists from various countries and offer the Directors
Scholarship in Postgraduate Forensic Pathology to
international students from under developed countries.
Public Administration Act
The Institute is committed to the public sector values
and employment principles detailed in the Public
Administration Act 2004, and apply merit and equity
principles when appointing staff. The selection process
ensures that applicants are assessed and evaluated fairly
and equitably based on the key selection criteria and
other accountabilities without discrimination.
Upholding these values and principles is fundamental to
the Institute’s human resources strategies.
Codes of conduct
Codes of conduct guide behavior within VIFM. They are
a public statement of how the VIFM and its employees
interact with the government, community and each other.
They promote adherence to the public sector values. The
code is binding on any person to whom it applies and
breaching the code may constitute misconduct.
The Public Administration Act outlines the public sector
values. All public sector employees and other public
officials must adhere to the values, and employers must
promote them in their organisations. Employers must also
ensure that any statement of values adopted or applied
in their organisation is consistent with the public sector
values.
The values are outlined in Section 7 of the Public
Administration Act, which states that public sector
employees should demonstrate:
• responsiveness
• integrity
• impartiality
•
•
•
•
accountability
respect
leadership
human rights.
During induction, all new employees are made aware
of their rights and responsibilities in relation to Privacy
& Confidentiality, Discrimination, Sexual Harassment
and Bullying. The Institute takes a proactive approach in
education and promotion of all Policies and the elimination
of discrimination, harassment and bullying within the
workplace.
Behaviours and Culture
An organisation is defined by its culture. A good
workplace culture can improve morale, boost productivity
and improve an organisation’s reputation. VIFM and its
employees share a mutual responsibility to work
together by:
• creating pride in public sector workplaces
• delivering responsive public services
• earning the community’s trust in the public sector
• supporting the Government of the day in serving
Victorians.
Grievances
In the 2010–11 reporting period, there were no grievances
recorded.
Employee Assistance Program
The Employee Assistance Program is a free, professional
and confidential counselling service for all Institute
employees, immediate family members and members
of their household. The service provides for timely
intervention to assist employees and their families.
Koori Recruitment and Career
Development Strategy
Koori Recruitment and Career Development Strategy
(KRCDS) is an initiative of the Victorian Aboriginal Justice
Agreement. The Institute supports this initiative by
providing newly-appointed staff the opportunity to identify
as an Indigenous Australian.
Career Information Afternoons
The Institute receives a large number of enquiries
regarding work experience opportunities. We are
unable to offer work experience due to the sensitive and
confidential nature of the work carried out by the Institute.
Instead, Career Information Afternoons are held biannually for students between Year 10 and Year 12. The
Career Information afternoons offer a thorough insight into
various career options in forensic medicine and science
and provide information on academic requirements.
67
Employee Relations Statement
The Institute employs medical staff including medical
specialists, forensic pathologists, forensic odontologists,
forensic physicians and forensic nurse examiners. We
also employ a large number of Victorian Public Servants
including Scientists and Medical Research Officers
covered under the Public Administration Act 2004 terms
and conditions of the Victorian Public Service Agreement
2006 (2009 Extended and Varied version). The Institute
is committed to its employees by offering excellent
benefits and a fulfilling career and is committed to helping
employees balance their careers with their personal
commitments through a range of work/life initiatives.
Workforce Statistics
As at the 30th June 2011, a total of 180 staff were
employed by the Institute compared to 162 at
30 June 2010.
Employment status by category:
Ongoing Employees
Fixed Term Employees
Total
Full time
(headcount)
Part time
(headcount)
Full time
(headcount)
Part time
(headcount)
Employees
(headcount)
FTE
2009–10
111
29
14
8
162
147
2010–11
104
38
26
12
180
159.7
Ongoing Ongoing (FTE)
(headcount)
Fixed Term
(headcount)
Fixed Term
(FTE)
Total
(headcount)
Total (FTE)
16
15.6
58
54.5
Status of employees in current positions –
Headcount & FTE
Male
42
38.9
Female
100
87.9
22
17.3
122
105.2
Total
142
126.8
38
32.9
180
159.7
Executive contracts
At 30 June
2010
At 30 June
2011
2
2
Executive level employees
Workforce Diversity
Age Bracket
Male
Female
Total
% Total
FTE
15–24
1
3
4
2.2
4
25–34
16
42
58
32.2
53
35–44
19
42
61
33.9
54.4
45–54
11
16
27
15.0
21
55–64
9
16
25
13.9
23.5
65+
2
3
5
2.8
3.8
Total
58
132
180
100
159.7
68
Energy and Water Efficiency
Due to the nature of our work we are a large
consumer of both water and electricity but are always
mindful of trying to reduce our usage and eliminate
waste. The increases noted this year are most likely due
to the soil contamination works completed earlier this
year and the building redevelopment works which
commenced in January.
Year
Gas (Mj)
Electricity (kWh)
Water (kl)
2008–09
6,338,235
2,737,337.40
5,957
2009–10
5,886,433
2,324,793.12
5,296
2010–11
4,972,325
2,696,928.78
5,590
-15%
+16%
+5%
% change from previous year
Whistleblowing
Objectives of Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001
The Whistleblowers’ Protection Act 2001 was introduced
in Victoria on 1 January 2002. The legislation aims
to encourage whistleblowers to disclose improper
conduct by public officers and public bodies. It protects
whistleblowers and establishes a system to investigate
disclosed matters.
In 2010 a whistleblower complaint regarding the
conduct of a VIFM employee was made to the protected
disclosure coordinator at the Department of Justice and
subsequently referred to the Victorian Ombudsman. The
complaint was investigated by the Ombudsman and a
report entitled “Investigations into the improper release
of autopsy information by a Victorian Institute of Forensic
Medicine employee” was tabled in Parliament on 4 May
2011. The Institute has accepted the recommendations of
the Ombudsman and is engaged in implementing actions
in response.
Statement of support to whistleblowers
The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine is committed
to the aims and objectives of the Whistleblowers’
Protection Act 2001. We do not tolerate improper
conduct by our employees, officers or members, nor the
taking of reprisals against those who come forward to
disclose such conduct. The Institute recognises the value
of transparency and accountability in our administrative
and management practices, and supports the making of
disclosures that reveal corrupt conduct, conduct involving
a substantial mismanagement of public resources, or
conduct involving a substantial risk to public health and
safety or the environment.
The Institute will take all reasonable steps to protect
people who make such disclosures from any detrimental
action in reprisal for making the disclosure. It will also
afford natural justice to the person who is the subject of
the disclosure.
Reporting system and contact persons for the
The Institute uses the reporting system and procedures
established by the Department of Justice. The procedures
can be found at www.justice.vic.gov.au/whistleblowers.
Disclosures of improper conduct or detrimental action
by the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine or our
employees may be made to either:
Ombudsman Victoria
3/459 Collins St (South Tower)
Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: 03 9613 6222
Tel: (toll free) 1800 806 314
Protected Disclosure Coordinator
Department of Justice
GPO Box 4356QQ
Melbourne VIC 3001
Tel: 03 8684 0031
Freedom of Information Act 1982
The Institute is subject to the Freedom of Information
Act 1982 (FOI Act). In the 2010–11 year the Institute
received three direct requests for the release of
information pursuant to the FOI Act, and one request
from another agency for information required to respond
to FOI applications made to that agency. The Institute
provided the requested information to the other agency.
The Institute was unable to comply with two of the direct
requests, as the requested information is not held by the
Institute. The remaining direct request is currently being
processed within the statutory time limit.
Freedom of Information Officer
Ms Helen Mckelvie
Manager Medico-Legal Policy and Projects
Privacy
The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM)
must deal with identified personal and health information
in accordance with the relevant provisions of the
Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine Act 1985 (Vic)
(‘the VIFM Act’), the Human Tissue Act 1982 and both
the Information Privacy Act 2000 (Vic) and the Health
Records Act 2001 (Vic). VIFM must also follow the
Coroners Court Rules in relation to distribution of reports
provided to the coroner.
Adhering to these legislative provisions and rules
ensures that VIFM has the ability to perform its statutory
functions and objects, and also to properly respect
the privacy of individuals whose personal and health
information we handle
There were no privacy complaints received at VIFM during
2010–11.
In the 2010–11, the Privacy Officer has undertaken
a review and update of the VIFM Privacy Statement
and the internal privacy and confidentiality policy and
procedures. An updated confidentiality agreement
has been developed. All staff, visitors and contractors
have been required to sign a new agreement. A new
Information Security policy is being developed to
complement the Privacy and Confidentiality policy.
Updated staff privacy training has been rolled out across
the Institute. In addition, a targeted training package
is being developed to assist staff to understand their
privacy and confidentiality obligations in relation to the
sensitive information held at the Institute and the particular
challenges that arise from the nature of the work we
undertake.
Further information regarding the Victorian Institute of
Forensic Medicine Privacy Policy is available on our
website at www.vifm.org.
Privacy Officer
Ms Helen McKelvie
Manager Medico-Legal Policy and Projects
Disclosure of Consultancies
The Institute has not entered into any consultancies under
$100,000 during 1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011.
Disclosure of major contracts
The Institute has not entered into any contracts greater
than $10 million during 1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011.
Statement of compliance with National
Competition Policy
The Institute continues to comply with the requirements of
the National Competition Policy. This includes compliance
with the requirements of the policy statement Competitive
Neutrality: A Statement of Victorian Government Policy,
the Victorian Government Timetable for the Review
of Legislative Restrictions on Competition and any
subsequent reforms.
Statement of compliance with the
Building Act 1993
The Minister for Finance guidelines, pursuant to section
220 of the Building Act 1993, promote better standards
for buildings owned by the Crown and public authorities,
and require entities to report on achievements.
69
70
Risk Attestation
Appendix A: Publications
Bassed R, Hill A. The use of computed tomography (CT) to
estimate age in the 2009 Victorian bushfire victims: A case report.
Forensic Science International 2011; 205(1–3): 48–51.
Bassed R, Leditschke J. Forensic medical lessons learned from
the Victorian Bushfire Disaster: Recommendations from the Phase 5
debrief. Forensic Science International 2011; 205(1–3): 73–79.
Bassed R, Briggs C, Drummer O. Analysis of time of closure of
the spheno-occipital synchondrosis using computed tomography.
Forensic Science International 2010; 200: 161–164.
Bassed R, Drummer O, Briggs C, Valenzuela A. Age estimation
and the medial clavicular epiphysis: Analysis of the age of majority
in an Australian population using computed tomography. Forensic
Science, Medicine and Pathology 2011; 7(2): 148–154.
Beyer J, Vo T, Gerostamoulos D, Drummer O. Validated method
for the determination of ethylglucuronide and ethylsulfate in human
urine. Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry 2011; 400(1): 189–196.
Blau S, Briggs C. The role of forensic anthropology in Disaster
Victim Identification (DVI). Forensic Science International 2011;
205(1–3): 29–35.
Grills N, Ozanne-Smith J, Bartolomeos K. The mortuary as a source
of injury data: Progress towards a mortuary data guideline for fatal
injury surveillance. International Journal of Injury Control and Safety
Promotion 2011; 18()2): 127–134.
Hamilton K, Herson M. Skin Bank development and critical incident
response. Cell and Tissue Banking – Special edition 2011; 12(2):
147–151.
Hartman D, Drummer O, Eckhoff C, Scheffer J, Stringer P. The
contribution of DNA to the disaster victim identification (DVI) effort.
Forensic Science International 2011; 205(1–3): 52–58.
Hartman D, Benton L, Morenos L, Beyer J, Spiden M, Stock
A. The importance of Guthrie cards and other medical samples for
the direct matching of disaster victims using DNA profiling. Forensic
Science International 2011; 205(1–3): 59–63.
Hartman D, Benton L, Morenos L, Beyer J, Spiden M, Stock
A. Examples of kinship analysis where Profiler Plus™ was not
discriminatory enough for the identification of victims using DNA
identification. Forensic Science International 2011; 205(1–3): 64–68.
Breen K. Doctor’s health: can we do better under national
registration? Medical Journal of Australia 2011; 194(4): 191–192.
Hill A, Lain R, Hewson I. Preservation of dental evidence following
exposure to high temperatures. Forensic Science International 2011;
205(1–3): 40–43.
Bugeja L, Clapperton A, Killian J, Stephan K, Ozanne-Smith J.
Reliability of ICD-10 external cause of death codes in the National
Coronial Information System. Health Information Management (HIM)
Journal 2010; 39(3): 16–26.
Hill A, Hewson I, Lain R. The role of the forensic odontologist in
disaster victim identification: Lessons for management. Forensic
Science International 2011; 205(1–3): 44–47.
Bugeja L, McClure R, Ozanne-Smith J. The public policy approach
to injury prevention. Injury Prevention 2011; 17: 63–65.
Burke M, O’Donnell C, Opeskin K. Spontaneous acute subdural
hematoma complicating arachnoid cyst. American Journal of
Forensic Medicine and Pathology 2010; 31(4): 382–384.
Cordner S, Woodford N, Bassed R. Forensic aspects of the 2009
Victorian Bushfires Disaster. Forensic Science International 2011;
205(1–3): 2–7.
Craig P, Davey J. Mummified child – a further investigation.
Buried History 2009; 45: 15–22.
Cutajar M, Mullen P, Ogloff J, Thomas S, Wells D, Spataro J.
Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders in a cohort of sexually
abused children. Archives of General Psychiatry 2010; 67(11):
1114–1119.
Cutajar M, Mullen P, Ogloff J, Thomas S, Wells D. Spataro J.
Psychopathology in a large cohort of sexually abused children
followed up to 43-years. Child Abuse and Neglect 2010; 34:
813–822.
Drummer OH, Cordner, SM. Preface. Forensic Science
International 2011; 205(1–3): 1.
Drummer O, Gerostamoulos D, Jochen B. Drug testing
development. Forensic Technology Review 2010: 160–167.
Edlin A, Williams B, Williams A. Pre-hospital provider recognition of
intimate partner violence. Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine
2010; 17: 359–362.
Ehsani J, Ibrahim J, Bugeja L, Cordner S. The role of epidemiology
in determining if a simple short fall can cause fatal head injury in an
infant: a subject review and reflection. American Journal of Forensic
Medicine and Pathology 2010; 31(3): 287–298.
Erkoboni D, Ozanne-Smith J, Cao R, Winston F. Cultural translation:
Acceptability and efficacy of a US-based injury prevention
intervention in China. Injury Prevention 2010; 16: 296–301.
Gerostamoulos D, Beyer J. Medical issues: Drug screening in
clinical and forensic toxicology: are there differences? Journal of Law
and Medicine 2010; 18(1): 25–27.
Gerostamoulos D, Beyer J, Wong K, Wort C, Drummer O.
Carbon monoxide concentrations in the 2009 Victorian
Bushfire disaster victims. Forensic Science International 2011;
205(1–3): 69–72.
Ibrahim J, Ehsani J, McInnes J. The effect of printed educational
material from the Coroner in Victoria, Australia, on changing aged
care health professional practice: A subscriber survey. Journal of the
American Geriatric Society 2010; 58(3): 585–91.
Iino M, O’Donnell C. Post mortem CT findings of upper airway
obstruction by food. Journal of Forensic Sciences. 2010; 55(5):
1251–1258.
Kamel J, Christensen B, Odell M, D’Souza W, Cook M. Evaluating
the use of prolonged video-EEG monitoring to assess future seizure
risk and fitness to drive. Epilepsy and Behavior 2010; 19: 608–611.
Lain R, Taylor J, Croker S, Craig P, Graham J. Comparative dental
anatomy in Disaster Victim Identification: Lessons from the 2009
Victorian Bushfires. Forensic Science International 2011; 205(1–3):
36–39.
Leditschke J, Collett S, Ellen R. Mortuary operations in the
aftermath of the 2009 Victorian bushfires. Forensic Science
International 2011; 205(1–3); 8–14.
McInnes J, Ibrahim J. Minimising harm to older Victorians from
heatwaves: A qualitative study of the role of community-based health
profession and carer organisations. Australasian Journal of Ageing
2010; 29(3): 104–110.
McNeilly B, Ibrahim J, Bugeja L, Ozanne-Smith J. The prevalence
of work-related deaths associated with alcohol and drugs in Victoria,
Australia 2001–2006. Injury Prevention 2010; 16(6): 423–428.
Mihrshahi S, Brand C, Ibrahim J, Evans S, Jolley D, Cameron P.
Validity of the indicator ‘death in low-mortality diagnosis-related
groups’ for measuring patient safety and healthcare quality in
hospitals. Internal Medicine Journal 2010 40(4): 250–257.
O’Donnell C, Baker M. Postmortem CT findings of gastromalacia”:
a trap for the radiologist for forensic interest. Forensic Science,
Medicine, and Pathology 2010; 6(4): 293–297.
O’Donnell C, Iino M, Mansharan K, Leditschke J, Woodford
N. Contribution of postmortem multidetector CT scanning to
identification of the deceased in a mass disaster: Experience gained
from the 2009 Victorian bushfires. Forensic Science International
2011; 205(103): 15–28.
O’Donnell C. An image of sudden death: utility of routine postmortem computed tomography scanning in medico-legal autopsy
practice. Diagnostic Histopathology 2010; 16(12): 552–555.
71
72
O’Donnell C, Woodford N. Postmortem imaging: a supplement
to not replacement for autopsy in medico-legal death investigation.
[Letter]. BMJ 2010 Dec 30; 341:c7415.
Clement J, Bassed R, Graham J. Forensic Dentistry.
Chapter 34. In: Freckelton I, Selby H. eds. Expert Evidence.
Thomson Reuters, 2010.
O’Donnell, C, Woodford, N. Imaging the dead: Can supplement
but not replace autopsy [Letter]. BMJ 2011, 342.
Cordner S. Forensic pathology. In: Blau S, Fondebrider L. eds.
A Practical Guide for Investigators in Timor-Leste. Southbank,
Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 2011. pp.43–61.
Pilgrim J, Gerostamoulos D, Drummer O. Pharmacogenetic
aspects of the effect of cytochrome P450 polymorphisms on
serotonergic drug metabolism, response, interactions, and adverse
effects. Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology 2011; 7(2):
162–184.
Pilgrim J, Gerostamoulos D, Drummer O. Deaths involving MDMA
and the concomitant use of pharmaceutical drugs. Journal of
Analytical Toxicology 2011, 35 (4), 219–226.
Ranson D, Iles L. Medical Issues: Death from minor head trauma
and alcohol. Journal of Law and Medicine 2011; 18(3): 453–456.
Reynolds M, Warwick R, Poniatowski S, Trias E. European coding
system for tissues and cells: a challenge unmet? Cell and Tissue
Banking 2010; 11(4): 353–364.
Routley V, Ozanne-Smith J, Yu M, Wang J, Wu M, Zhang J, Qin
Y, Zhao M. Focus on seat belt use in China. Traffic Injury Prevention
2010; 11: 578–586.
Russell M, Hill K, Day L, Blackberry I, Schwartz J, Giummarra M,
Dorevitch M, Ibrahim J, Dalton A, Dharmage S. A randomized
controlled trial of a multifactorial falls prevention intervention for
older fallers presenting to emergency departments. Journal of the
American Geriatric Society 2010; 58(12): 2265–2274.
Saar E, Gerostamoulos D, Drummer O, Beyer, J. Identification
and quantification of 30 antipsychotics in blood using LC-MS/MS.
Journal of Mass Spectrometry 2010; 45: 915–925.
Studdert D, Cordner S. Impact of coronial investigations on manner
and cause of death determinations in Australia, 2000–2007. Medical
Journal of Australia 2010; 192(8): 444–447.
Taylor G, Blau S, Mays S, Monot M, Lee O, Minnikin D, Besra G,
Cole S, Rutland P. Mycobacterium lepra genotype amplified from an
archaeological case of lepromatous leprosy in Central Asia. Journal
of Archaeological Science 2009; 36: 2408–2414.
Tu E, Bagnall R, Duflou J, Lynch M, Twigg S, Semsarian C. Postmortem pathologic and genetic studies in “dead in bed” cases in
type 1 diabetes mellitus. Human Pathology 2010; 41: 392–400.
Williams A, Williams B. The early recognition of intimate partner
violence by paramedics. [Letter to editor]. Emergency Medicine
Australasia 2010; 22(6): 575.
Drummer O, Karch S. Interpretation of Toxicological Data. In: Moffat
AC, Osselton MD, Widdop B, Watts J. eds. Clarke’s Analysis of
Drugs and Poisons. 4th ed. London, Pharmaceutical Press, 2011.
Drummer O. Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism. In: Moffat AC,
Osselton MD, Widdop B, Watts J. eds. Clarke’s Analysis of Drugs
and Poisons. 4th ed. London, Pharmaceutical Press, 2011.
Fondebrider L, Blau S. Victim Identification. In: Blau S, Fondebrider
L. eds. A Practical Guide for Investigators in Timor-Leste. Southbank,
Gerostamoulos D. Forensic Toxicology. In: Blau S, Fondebrider L.
eds. A Practical Guide for Investigators in Timor-Leste. Southbank,
Hill A. Forensic Odontology. In: Blau S, Fondebrider L. eds.
A Practical Guide for Investigators in Timor-Leste. Southbank,
Hill A. Forensic Odontology/Odontology Aspect of DVI Chapter.
In: Freckleton and Selby eds. Expert Evidence, 2011.
Odell M. Traffic Medicine. Chapter 41A. In: Freckelton I, Selby H.
eds. Expert Evidence. Thomson Reuters, 2010.
Ranson, D. Research, Forensics, Public Health, Injury Prevention
and Policy Development. In: Hovenga E, Kidd M, Garde S, Cossio C,
eds. Health Informatics: an Overview. Amsterdam, IOS Press, 2010.
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics. Vol. 151. Chapter 25.
pp. 341–359.
Wells D. Sexual Violence: An Introduction for Police, Health Workers
and the Legal Profession. In: Blau S, Fondebrider L. eds . A Practical
Guide for Investigators in Timor-Leste. Southbank, Victorian Institute
of Forensic Medicine, 2011. pp.63–81.
In Press
Bassed R, Briggs C, Drummer O. Age estimation and the
developing third molar tooth: An analysis of an Australian population
using computed tomography. Journal of Forensic Sciences.
Published online 6 April, 2011.
Zhang P, Ozanne-Smith J, Zhu Zonghan, eds.
Child injury prevention and emergency care. Beijing, China
(text in Chinese) 2010.
Blau S, Fondebrider L. Dying for independence: Proactive
investigations into the 12th November 1991 Santa Cruz Massacre.
International Journal of Human Rights. Published online
19 October 2010.
Books and Chapters
Chu M, Gerostamoulos D, Beyer J, Rodda L, Boorman M,
Drummer O. The incidence of drugs of impairment in oral fluid from
random roadside testing. Forensic Science International. Published
online 12 June, 2011.
Blau S, Fondebrider L. eds. A practical guide for forensic
investigators in Timor-Leste. Southbank, Victorian institute of
Forensic Medicine, 2011.
Blau S, Fondebrider L, Johnstone M. An overview of forensic
science and medicine. In: Blau S, Fondebrider L. eds. A Practical
Guide for Investigators in Timor-Leste. Southbank, Victorian Institute
of Forensic Medicine, 2011. pp.14–41.
Blau S. Forensic anthropology. In: Blau S, Fondebrider L. eds. A
Practical Guide for Investigators in Timor-Leste. Southbank, Victorian
Institute of Forensic Medicine, 2011. pp.93–101.
Blau S, Fondebrider L, Saldanha G. Working with families of the
Missing: A case study from East Timor. In: Lauritsch K, Kernjak F.
eds. We Need the Truth: Enforced Disappearances in Asia. Colonia
Bran, Guatemala: ECAP. 2011. pp: 136–144.
Briggs C, Donlon D, Wood B. Forensic osteology. In: Freckelton I,
Selby H. Expert Evidence. Chapter 35. Thomson Reuters, 2010.
Charlton JL, Koppel S, Odell M, Devlin A, Langford J, O’Hare M,
Kopinathan C, Andrea D, Smith G, Khodr B, Edquist J, Muir C,
Scully M. Influence of chronic illness on crash involvement of motor
vehicle drivers. 2nd ed. Clayton. Monash Accident Research Centre
(MUARC). Report.No. 300, 2010.
Davey J. Standard of mummification in Graeco/Roman child
mummies. Yearbook of Mummy Studies 2011.
Drummer O, Kourtis I, Beyer J, Tayler P, Boorman M.
Gerostamoulos D. The prevalence of drugs in injured drivers.
Forensic Science International. Published online 5 March 2011.
George K, Archer MS, Toop T. Effect of bait age, larval chemical
cues and nutrient depletion on colonisation by forensically important
Calliphoridae and Sarcophagidae (Diptera). Medical and Veterinary
Entomology. In Press.
Johnson A, Wallman J, Archer M. Ambient temperature corrections
in forensic entomology: length of correlation, distance between
death scene and weather station, and temperature measurement
periodicity. Journal of Forensic Sciences. In Press.
Jones C, Ibrahim J, Ozanne-Smith J. Work-related non-crash
heavy vehicle driver fatalities in Australia, 2000–9. Injury Prevention.
Published online March 10, 2011.
Milroy C, Pollanen M, Wells D. eds. Polson’s Essentials of Forensic
Medicine. 5th ed. London, Hodder Arnold, In Press.
Pedraza J, Herson M. The importance of ethics in the field of
human tissue banking. Cell and Tissue Banking. Published online
15 December 2010.
Pilgrim J, Gerostamoulos D, Drummer O. Deaths involving
contraindicated and inappropriate combinations of serotonergic
drugs. International Journal of Legal Medicine. Published online
1 December 2010.
Pilgrim J, Gerostamoulos D, Woodford N, Drummer O. Serotonin
toxicity involving MDMA (Ecstasy) and moclobemide. Forensic
Science International. Published online 13 May, 2011.
Rintoul A, Dobbin M, Drummer O, Ozanne-Smith J. Increasing
deaths involving oxycodone, Victoria, Australia, 2000–20009.
Injury Prevention. Published online December 16, 2010.
Saar E, Gerostamoulos D, Drummer OH, Beyer, J. Assessment
of the stability of 30 antipsychotic drugs in stored blood specimens.
Forensic Science International. Published online 26 March, 2011.
Wells D. Genito-anal pathology. In: Milroy C, Pollanen M, Wells
D. eds. Polson’s Essentials of Forensic Medicine. 5th ed. London,
Hodder Arnold, In press.
Wells D. Gaya S. Clinical Forensic Medicine. In: Freckelton I, Selby
H. eds. Expert Evidence. Thomson Reuters, 2011.
Submitted
Bugeja L, Ibrahim J, Ozanne-Smith J, Brodie L. Defining
occupational deaths in a medico-legal context: towards prevention.
Submitted to Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health.
Davey J, Craig P, Drummer O, Ranson D, Robertson S.
Mummified child – a further investigation. Submitted to
Buried History.
Ehsani J, McNeilly B, Ibrahim J, Ozanne-Smith J. Work-related
fatal injury among young persons in Australia, July 2000–June 2007.
Submitted to Injury Prevention.
Routley V, Ozanne-Smith J, Qin Y, Zhao M. Case study
comparison: introduction of seat belt wearing in China and Australia.
Submitted to Traffic Safety.
Van Wijk, M, Herson M, Poniatowsi, S. Results of the clinical
donor case and quality system case workshops of the European
Association of Tissue Banks Annual Meeting 2009. Cell and
Tissue Culture.
Books
Burke, M. Forensic Pathology Fractures and Mechanisms of Injury –
an Introduction to Routine CT Scanning in Forensic Pathology. Taylor
& Francis. Submitted 2010.
Poniatowski S, Tyszkiewicz I, Slaper-Cortenbach I. Coding and
traceability. Chapter in: Tissue and Cell Processing. Wiley-Blackwell.
73
74
Appendix B: Presentations and Abstracts
Conference Presentations & Abstracts
Archer M, Johnson A, O’Donnell C, Leigh-Shaw L, Brown M,
Wallman J. “Radiology for the masses”: The problem of non-invasive
visualisation of maggot masses and a possible solution using CT
scanning. Abstract of oral presentation. Australian and New Zealand
Forensic Science Society (ANZFSS). 20th International Symposium
on the Forensic Sciences: ‘Forensic Science on Trial’, Sydney, 5–9
Sep, 2010.
Bassed R, Drummer O, Briggs. The scientific analysis of age using
computed tomography. Abstract of oral presentation. Australian and
New Zealand Forensic Science Society (ANZFSS). 20th International
Symposium on the Forensic Sciences: ‘Forensic Science on Trial’,
Sydney, 5–9 Sep, 2010.
Bedford P. Sexual Homicide- African Network of Pathologists,
Windhoek Namibia March14–18, 2011.
Beyer J, Vo T, Gerostamoulos D, Drummer O. Detection and
validated quantification of ethylglucuronide and ethyl sulfate in human
urine. 48th Annual meeting of The International Association
of Forensic Toxicologists (TIAFT). Bonn, Germany, 29 Aug –
2 Sep, 2010.
Beyer J, Benton L, Bowman Z, Davawala A, Devenish-Meares J,
Drummer O, Hartman D, Schlenker A, Spiden M, Stock A. DNA
analysis and its application to forensic investigations at the Victorian
Institute of Forensic Medicine. Pathology Update 2011, 4–6 March,
Melbourne Convention Centre.
Bassed R. The Victorian bushfires, February 7th 2009”, American
Academy of Forensic Sciences meeting, Seattle, Feb 22–27, 2010.
Bassed R. Invited speaker, “Aspects of Forensic Odontology”,
University of Otago faculty of Dentistry, Dunedin April 15th, 2010.
Bassed R. “Disaster Victim Identification”, Inaugural Forensic
Pathology conference, Gaborone, Botswana, May 16–20, 2010.
Bassed R. “Scientific Analysis of the Age of Majority using
Computed Tomography”, Australian and New Zealand Forensic
Science Society (ANZFSS) conference, Sydney, 5th–9th
September 2010.
Bassed R. “Forensic Odontology in Australia”, Faculty of Dental
Science, University of Grenada, Spain, November 12th, 2010.
Blau, S. Investigation and training projects in East Timor. Reclaiming
Stolen Lives: Forensic Sciences and Human Rights Investigations
Conference, Jakarta, Indonesia, June 2010.
Blau S, Fondebrider L. Dying for independence: proactive
investigations into the 12th November 1991 Santa Cruz massacre,
East Timor. Abstract of oral presentation. Australian and New
Zealand Forensic Science Society (ANZFSS). 20th International
Blau S, Combridge T. Estimating ancestry : a cautionary tale.
Abstract of oral presentation. Australian and New Zealand Forensic
Science Society (ANZFSS). 20th International Symposium on the
Forensic Sciences: ‘Forensic Science on Trial’, Sydney,
5–9 Sep, 2010.
Cauchi D, Hanna J, Pais M. Demonstration of bruising in
decomposed deceased using immunohistochemical detection
of GPA. . Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society
(ANZFSS). 20th International Symposium on the Forensic Sciences:
‘Forensic Science on Trial’, Sydney, 5–9 Sep, 2010.
Collett S. A high risk autopsy: bio-containment of an emerging
zoonotic virus. Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society
Cordner S. Disaster victim identification (DVI) and mass casualty
events: The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) response
to the 2009 Victorian bushfires. Abstract of oral presentation.
Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society (ANZFSS).
20th International Symposium on the Forensic Sciences: ‘Forensic
Science on Trial’, Sydney, 5–9 Sep, 2010.
Crockett L. The National Coroners Information System. 38th Annual
Florida Medical Examiners Educational Conference, Florida, USA.
June 22–24 2011.
Crockett L. The National Coroners Information System. Mississippi
Medical Examiners Educational Conference, Mississippi, USA,
June 2011.
Crump K. Staikos V, Beyer J, Burke M, Gerostamoulos D. Use
of segmental hair analysis for evidence of overdose and previous
exposure to drugs. Abstract of oral presentation. Australian and
Daking L. Challenges of collecting and disseminating indigenous
data from the coronial system. Health Information Management
Association of Australia Conference, 27–29 October 2010.
Davey J, Bowyer P, Drummer O, Gize A, Hagenmaier C, Ranson
DL, Robertson SD. (Abstract) Forensic Egyptology, Luxor
Mummification Museum 2010.
Davey J, Ranson D, Robertson S, Drummer O. (Abstract) An
investigation of Graeco/Roman child mummies using CT scan and
graphics workstation images. 7th Congress on Mummy Studies,
12–16 June 2011, San Diego, USA.
Drummer O. (Keynote) The role of forensic toxicology in courts.
Science on Trial’, Sydney, 5–9 Sept, 2010.
Drummer O, Kourtis I, Beyer J, Boorman M, Gerostamoulos
D. The extent of drug-associated driving in Victoria. 48th Annual
meeting of The International Association of Forensic Toxicologists
(TIAFT). Bonn, Germany, 29 Aug – 2 Sept, 2010.
Drummer O. H. New Trends in Forensic Toxicology. The French
Society of Analytical Toxicology (Société Française de Toxicologie
Analytique, SFTA) & Société Toxicologie Clinique (STC), Chamonix,
Mont Blanc, France, 21–26 March 2011.
Drummer O. Assessing the effects of drugs and alcohol in driving:
Responsibility analysis GiFT Meeting Desenzano del Garda, Italy,
1–3 April, 2011, Desenzano del Garda, Italy, 1–3 April.
Fondebrider L, Blau S. Personal identification from skeletal remains
in human rights investigations: challenges from the field. 62nd Annual
Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences,
Seattle, Washington. Feb, 2010.
George K, Archer M, Toop T. Calliphorid (Diptera: Calliphooridae)
colonization of remains. Abstract of oral presentation. Australian and
George K, Archer M, Toop T. (Poster). Effects of ageing, larval
cues and nutrient depletion on colonization frequency by blowflies.
Gerostamoulos D, Wallington J, Wort C, Drummer O. (Abstract)
The involvement of prescribed drugs in road trauma. SOFT,
Richmond, Virginia, USA. 18–22 October, 2010.
Glowacki L, Gerostamoulos D, Wynne P. (Poster). Structureretention relationships for drugs on different GC phases. 48th Annual
(TIAFT). Bonn, Germany, 29 Aug – 2 Sep, 2010.
Glowacki L, Gerostamoulos D, Wynne P. (Poster). The metabolism
and excretion of quinine by the greyhound. 48th Annual meeting of
The International Association of Forensic Toxicologists (TIAFT). Bonn,
Germany, 29 Aug – 2 Sep, 2010.
Haas S, Pearse J and Ozanne-Smith J. Extent of underestimation
of alcohol involvement within Australian injury-related deaths.
Australasian Mortality Data Interest Group Workshop, Melbourne,
18–19 Nov, 2010.
Hamilton K. Presentation: “Operational models in Tissue Banking –
Victoria”. Australasian Tissue & Biotherapeutics Forum (ATBF), 12th
meeting, Melbourne, 10–13 May 2011.
Haouchar R. Impact of the Coroners Act 2008 on the autopsy
services at VIFM. Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science
Society (ANZFSS). 20th International Symposium on the Forensic
Sciences: ‘Forensic Science on Trial’, Sydney, 5–9 Sep, 2010.
Herson M. Presentation: “The DTBV Commonwealth funded facilitymeeting the concept of a “translation platform”. Australasian Tissue
Biotherapeutics Forum 12th Annual Scientific Meeting, Melbourne
11 May, 2011.
Herson M. Chair of the Organising Committee of Australasian
Tissue Biotherapeutics Forum 12th Annual Scientific Meeting,
10 – 13 May, 2011.
Hill A. Forensic Odontology Proficiency Trial. 20th International
Symposium on the Forensic Sciences of the Australian and New
Zealand Forensic Science Society (ANZFSS), Sydney, 5th–9th
Sept, 2010.
Hill A. Dental Aging of Infants. 20th International Symposium on
the Forensic Sciences of the Australian and New Zealand Forensic
Science Society (ANZFSS), Sydney, 5th–9th Sept, 2010.
Hill A. Use of Multi-detector CT Scanning During Disaster Victim
Identification Incidents Interpol DVI meeting, Lyon June 2011.
Hislop-Jambrich J, Thomas C, Briggs C, Hall C, Blau S, Clement
J. Using mortuary CT data to establish age and stature from the
femur. Abstract of oral presentation. Australian and New Zealand
Sep, 2010.
Ibrahim J. Measuring for improvement. Royal Australasian College
of Physicians pre-conference workshop Internal Medicine Society of
Australia and New Zealand, Broadbeach Queensland, 1 Oct 2010.
Ibrahim J. Chronic Disease Management and the Australian Health
System. 6th Annual National Disease Management Conference,
Melbourne, 20 Aug 2010.
Ibrahim J. CRE in Patient Safety Seminar: Heatwaves and Health –
From impact to harm prevention, Melbourne, 19 Aug 2010.
Ibrahim J. CRE in Patient Safety Seminar: Reviewing in-hospital
mortality, Melbourne, 24 Jun 2010.
Ibrahim J. IFA 10th Global Conference on Aging, Melbourne,
May 6 2010.
Ibrahim J, Nay R, Balding K, Cameron M. Innovation in residential
aged care: addressing clinical governance and clinical risk. IFA 10th
Global Conference on Aging, Melbourne, May 6 2010 [symposium].
Ibrahim J. Measuring for clinical improvement or organisational
management. Royal Australasian College of Physicians preconference workshop Internal Medicine Society of Australia and New
Zealand, Broadbeach Queensland 1 Oct 2010. [oral presentation].
Ibrahim J. Plenary Session 20th August Chronic Disease
Management and the Australian Health System. 6th Annual
National Disease Management Conference, Melbourne, 19–20 Aug
2010. [Chair]
Ibrahim J. How can the health impact of heatwaves be reduced?
CRE in Patient Safety Seminar: Heatwaves and Health-From impact
to harm prevention, Melbourne, 19 Aug 2010. [Chair and moderator].
Ibrahim J. Hospital review CRE in Patient Safety Seminar: Reviewing
in-hospital mortality, Melbourne, 24 Jun 2010. [Chair and moderator].
Ehsani JP, McNeilly B, Ibrahim JE, Ozanne-Smith J. Work-related
fatal injury among young persons in Australia, July 2000–June 2007.
APHA 139th Annual Meeting and Exposition, Washington, DC, 29
Oct–2 Nov 2011 [Poster].
Ibrahim J, McInnes JA, Andrianopoulos N, Evans S. Minimising
harm to older people from heatwaves: a survey of the awareness,
knowledge and practices of community-based health professionals
and care providers in Victoria, Australia (abstract) Injury Prevention
2010; 16(Supp 1): A84. The 10th World Conference on Injury
Prevention and Safety Promotion, Queen Elizabeth II London
England, 21– 24 Sep 2010 [Poster].
McInnes JA, Ibrahim JE. Minimising harm to elderly Victorians from
heatwaves: A qualitative study of the role of community-based health
profession and carer organisations (abstract). Injury Prevention 2010;
16(Supp 1): A85. The 10th World Conference on Injury Prevention
and Safety Promotion, Queen Elizabeth II London England, 21–24
Sep 2010 [Poster].
Bugeja L, Ibrahim JE, Ozanne-Smith J, Brodie L, McClure R.
Coroners recommendations and the prevention of fatal injury. Injury
Prevention 2010; 16 (Supp 1): A134 The 10th World Conference on
Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion. Queen Elizabeth II London
England, 21–24 Sep 2010 [oral presentation].
Johnson A, Archer M, Wallman J. (Oral presentation). Thermal
effects of maggot massing and their implications for forensic
entomology. Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society
Johnson A, Wallman J, Archer M. Experimental and casework
validation of ambient temperature corrections in forensic entomology.
Abstract of oral presentation. Australian and New Zealand Forensic
Science Society (ANZFSS). 20th International Symposium on the
Forensic Sciences: ‘Forensic Science on Trial’, Sydney,
5–9 Sep, 2010.
Johnson A, Archer M, O’Donnell C, Leigh-Shaw L, Brown M,
Wallman J. (Oral presentation). Visualisation and volumisation of
maggot masses using CT technology 7th International Congress of
Dipterology, International Conference Centre, Ramada Herradura
Hotel, Costa Rica, 8–13 August 2010.
Jones C, Green M, Ozanne-Smith J, Ibrahim J. Identifying
opportunities in unintentional fatality prevention. Australian Mortality
Data Interest Group Annual Meeting, Melbourne, Nov 2010 [C Jones
oral presentation].
Killian J, Ozanne-Smith J, Drummer O. Extracting and using
alcohol and drugs data in injury deaths in Victoria, Australia. Safety
2010 World Conference. London, 21–24 Sep, 2010.
Kipsaina C. The mortuary as a source of injury prevention data in
low-middle income countries. The Australasian Mortality Data Interest
Group (AMDIG) Workshop, Melbourne, 2010.
Kottegoda Vithana E, Ozanne-Smith J, Bartolomeos K. Piloting
of WHO/ Monash mortality based fatal injury surveillance project
in Sri Lanka. Australian Mortality Data Interest Group Workshop,
Melbourne, 18–19 Nov 2010.
Kotsos A, Gerostamoulos D, Drummer O. Analysis of
benzodiazepines in postmortem blood and liver by ESI HPLC/MS
ion trap. Abstract of oral presentation. Australian and New Zealand
Sep, 2010.
Evans S, Ibrahim J, Mulligan T. Quality Improvement: Basic
Principles Emergency Department Management Seminar,
Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Melbourne,
10 Mar 2010.
Melbourne K, Archer M, Wallman J. (Oral presentation). Interspecific
interactions between larvae of carrion-breeding blowflies. Australian
and New Zealand Forensic Science Society (ANZFSS). 20th
International Symposium on the Forensic Sciences: ‘Forensic
Ibrahim J, Balding C, Ow P, Cameron M. Clinical Governance
and Risk management in Aged Care. VHA Conference “Control or
Chaos”, Melbourne, 19 May 2010 [invited presentation workshop].
Odell M, Brennan P. Clinical forensic medicine on trial – The role
of clinical competencies in forensic medicine and their relevance
to the legal process. Abstract of oral presentation. Australian and
75
76
Ozanne-Smith J. Child injury prevention and child development,
International Society for Child and Adolescent Injury prevention,
Bristol UK, Sep 2010 (invited presentation).
Ozanne-Smith J, Routley V. Work-related Suicide. Safety 2010
World Conference, London UK, Sep 2010.
Ozanne-Smith J, Routley V. Work-related Suicide. Australasian
Mortality Data Interest Group Conference, Melbourne, Nov 2010.
Peden M, Bartolomeos K, Ozanne-Smith J, Kipsaina C, Grills N.
Mortuary-based injury surveillance. International collaborative Injury
Data Conference, Swansea Wales UK, Sep 2010.
Ozanne-Smith J, Bartolomeos K, Contribution of mortuary-based
survillance. Global Burden of Disease Africa meeting, Swansea
Wales UK, Sep 2010.
Ozanne-Smith J, Grills N. (poster and published abstract) The
mortuary as a source of injury data: progress towards a mortuary
data guideline for fatal injury surveillance. Safety 2010 World
Conference, London UK, Sep 2010.
Patterson B, Gerostamoulos D, Drummer OH, Beyer J.
Comparison of methods for the determination of xenobiotics in
biological samples: Targeted vs. two different General Unknown
Screening (GUS) methods, 59th ASMS Conference on Mass
Spectrometry, Colorado Convention Centre, Denver, USA,
5–9 June 2011.
Pearse J. and Harrison J. Developments in suicide identification.
Australasian Mortality Data Interest Group Workshop, Melbourne,
18–19 Nov, 2010.
Perera C, Briggs C, Cordner S. Medico-legal perspectives of
terrorist suicide bombings – a review of Sri Lankan experience.
Abstract of oral presentation. Australian and New Zealand
on the Forensic Sciences: ‘Forensic Science on Trial’, Sydney,
5–9 Sep, 2010.
Pilgrim J, Gerostamoulos D, Drummer O. Deaths involving
selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. 48th Annual meeting of The
International Association of Forensic Toxicologists (TIAFT). Bonn,
Germany, 29 Aug – 2 Sept, 2010.
Pilgrim J, Gerostamoulos D, Drummer O. Serotonin toxicity
involving MDMA and moclobemide. 48th Annual meeting of The
International Association of Forensic Toxicologists (TIAFT). Bonn,
Germany, 29 Aug – 2 Sept, 2010.
Poniatowski S. Presentation: “ATBF Coding Workshop – update
and the way forward”. Australasian Tissue Biotherapeutics Forum
12th Annual Scientific Meeting, Melbourne 11 May, 2011.
Ranson D. Australian College of Legal Medicine Annual Scientific
Meeting, “Forensic Medicine – Academic Discipline”, Sydney,
Sep 2010.
Ranson D. “Suicide Prevention and Medico-Legal Death
Investigation”, National Suicide Prevention Conference, Sydney,
Sep 2010.
Ranson D. Dorevitch – Pathology for General Practitioners
Workshop, “Accidental and non-accidental deaths in men”,
Oct 2010.
Ranson D. Sri Lankan Medico-Legal Society, “Tissue Transplantation
and Forensic Pathology”, Sri Lanka, Dec 2010.
Ranson D. Sri Lankan College of Forensic Medicine, “Modern
Medico-Legal Death Investigation and Forensic Imaging”, Sri Lanka,
Dec 2010.
Ranson D. Sri Lankan College of Forensic Medicine, “Clinical
Forensic Medicine – Specimen Contamination and the Jama Case”,
Sri Lanka, Dec 2010.
Ranson D. Annual Scientific Programme for RCPA, Old Melbourne
Gaol Workshop, “Forensic Pathology: Fact and Fiction”, Mar 2011.
Ranson D. Annual Scientific Programme for RCPA, “Giving the
Evidence”, Mar 2011.
Ranson D. RCPA Trainees Induction Day Meeting, “The Role of the
State Councillor”, Melbourne, Mar 2011.
Rintoul AC, Dobbin MHD, Drummer OH, Ozanne-Smith J.
Prescription opioid deaths, Victoria, 2000–2009, Australian
Professional Society on Alcohol and Drugs (APSAD), Canberra, Nov–
Dec 2010.
Rintoul AC, Dobbin MHD, Drummer OH, Ozanne-Smith J,
Identifying drug related deaths using coronial data, AMDIG,
Melbourne, Nov 2010.
Routley V. Work related suicide. Suicide Prevention: a dialogue
across disciplines and cultures, 4th Asia Pacific Regional Conference
of the IASP, Brisbane, 17–20 Nov 2010.
Rintoul AC, Nielsen S, Drummer OH, Dobbin M. Benzodiazepine
supply and heroin-related deaths in Victoria: The success of
flunitrazepam regulation compared with escalating deaths involving
alprazolam. Drugs and Alcohol Review: Vol. 29 (Suppl. 1) 2–82, p 62.
Proceedings of the 30th Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol
and other Drugs Conference, National Convention Centre, Canberra,
28 November–1 December 2010.
Russell J, Benton L, Hartman D, Spiden M, Stock A. The 2009
Victorian bushfires disaster: examples that illustrate the importance
of analysing a sufficient number of DNA loci for the accurate
identification of a large number of disaster victims. Australian and
Saar E, Gerostamoulos D, Beyer J, Drummer O. Stability of
antipsychotic drugs in stored blood samples. 48th Annual meeting of
The International Association of Forensic Toxicologists (TIAFT). Bonn,
Germany, 29 Aug – 2 Sep, 2010.
Sadler K, Poniatowski S, Herson M. (Poster). Developing a
procedure for non-water based scrubbing. 12th Annual Scientific
Meeting of the Australasian Tissue & Biotherapeutics Forum,
Melbourne May 101–13, 2011.
Stewart B, Poniatowski S, Herson M. (Poster). Validation of
a manual method for the freezing of skin. 12th Annual Scientific
Meeting of the Australasian Tissue & Biotherapeutics Forum,
Melbourne May10–13, 2011.
Sadler K, Poniatowski S, Herson M. Presentation: “Developing
a procedure for a non-water based scrubbing.” Australasian
Tissue Biotherapeutics Forum 12th Annual Scientific Meeting,
10 – 13 May, 2011.
Wallington J, Gerostamoulos D, Burke M, Drummer O. An
unusual death involving codeine in a toddler. Australian and New
Zealand Forensic Science Society (ANZFSS). 20th International
Wells D. Child Sexual Abuse: International Developments. Sexual
Abuse Conference, Manchester. Feb 2011.
Wallman J, Melbourne K, Archer M. Interspecific interaction between
larvae of carrion-breeding blowflies. Abstract of oral presentation.
Williams A, Parekh V. Sexual assault in the elderly – a 10 year
review. Abstract of oral presentation. Australian and New Zealand
on the Forensic Sciences: ‘Forensic Science on Trial’, Sydney,
5–9 Sep, 2010.
Williams A. Identifying false reporting – is it possible? Abstract of oral
presentation. Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society
Woodford N. Quality Assurance in Forensic Pathology. RCPA
Pathology Update February 2010. Melbourne.
Woodford N. Pathology Management of 2009 Victorian
Bushfire Disaster. RCPA Annual Scientific Meeting. Rotorua.
September 2010.
Woods J, Gerostamoulos D, Drummer O. Twenty years of heroinrelated death statistics: how the Victorian drug scene has changed.
48th Annual meeting of The International Association of Forensic
Toxicologists (TIAFT). Bonn, Germany, 29 Aug – 2 Sept, 2010.
–
–
Wort C, Gerostamoulos D, Wong K, Beyer J, Drummer O.
Carboxyhaemoglobin determination in persons who died in the 2009
Victorian bushfires. Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science
Society (ANZFSS). 20th International Symposium on the Forensic
Sciences: ‘Forensic Science on Trial’, Sydney, 5–9 Sept, 2010.
–
Wynne P, Glowacki L, Gerostamoulos D. (Poster). Species
differences in the metabolism of Phalaris alkaloids, 48th Annual
(TIAFT). Bonn, Germany, 29 Aug – 2 Sept, 2010.
Other Presentations
Bassed R.
– DVI and Reconciliation, Presentation to national mortuary
managers, Oct 2010.
– Disaster Victim identification, Presentation to CFM students,
Oct 2010.
– Reconciliation and Odontology, Presentation to police
reconciliation course, Jan 2011.
– Analysis of the age of majority using computed tomography,
Presentation to UAE delegates Jan 2011.
–PhD results presentation, VIFM lunchtime lecture series,
Mar 2011.
– Forensic Odontology and CT imaging, Presentation to CFM case
group meeting, May 2011.
– DVI and odontology, Presentation to pathology registrars,
June 2011.
Bedford P.
–Histology Society of Victoria, Sep 2010.
–Homicide Squad Victoria training session, Oct 2010.
– Australian Federal Police Trainees, Canberra, Dec 2010.
– Congo Aviation Crash, VIFM, August 2010.
– Polycystic Kidneys, VIFM, Dec 2010.
Blau S.
– Forensic Anthropology at the VIFM, Presentation to Japanese
Delegation, VIFM, June 2010.
– Forensic Anthropology. Contributions to Domestic and
International Investigations. Invited Lecture, ANZFSS (Victorian
Branch), Aug. 2010.
– Forensic Anthropology, Lecture to SCO, VIFM, Aug 2010.
– Forensic Anthropology Lecture to Arson Squad Detectives,
VIFM, Nov 2010.
– Forensic Anthropology Lecture to Homicide Squad Training,
VIFM, Dec 2010.
– Forensic Anthropology Lecture to Detective Training School,
VIFM, Dec 2010.
–The role of forensic anthropology in Missing Persons
investigations, Presentation to NSW Coroner/Police Delegation,
Jan 2011.
VIFM, March 2011.
– Forensic anthropology abroad: Update on the VIFM’s work in
East Timor. Presentation to the Pathology Update, Melbourne
May 2011.
– Forensic Anthropology Lecture to Registrars, VIFM, May 2011.
VIFM, May 2011.
Cotsonis J.
–Presentation about the NCIS. Justice Portfolio Data Network
Meeting, Melbourne, 29 March 2011.
Gaya S.
– Forensic Medicine, Victorian Medical Postgraduate Foundation
Inc, Hamilton, 19 November, 2010.
– Forensic Medicine, Victorian Medical Postgraduate Foundation
Inc, Warrnambool, 16 June, 2011.
Drummer OH.
–Expert Evidence Workshop conducted by Anna Davey at VIFM
–
–
and the County Court, Melbourne, 13–14 August 2010.
RCPA Annual General Meeting, VIFM, 15 November 2010.
VIFM Planning Day, Queen’s Loft, Southbank,
17 November 2010.
Chaired Drug Data Session, Australasian Mortality Data Interest
Group meeting, Melbourne, 18 November 2010.
RMIT Pharmaceutical Sciences Program Advisory Committee
meeting, Old Magistrate’s Court, Melbourne,
14 December 2010.
Department of Forensic Medicine Operational Plan meeting,
Story, Southbank, 9 March 2011.
Herson M.
– 2011 DonateLife Network Annual Forum – Workshop Facilitator
– Tissue Banking.
Hill AJ.
– Forensic Odontology at the VIFM, Presentation to Japanese
Delegation, June 2010.
– Forensic Odontology and the Law, Elements of For. Science,
VIFM Aug 2010/May 2011.
– Forensic Odontology and the Coronial System – State Coroner’s
Office, VIFM, Aug 2010.
– Forensic Odontology Lecture to Victoria Police Arson Squad
Detectives, VIFM, Nov 2010.
– Forensic Odontology Lecture to Detective Training School, Dec
2010/Mar 2011/May 2011.
–HR Careers lecture, June 2010/May 2011.
– Record Keeping and Legal Requirements of Dent. Assistants;
D.A Convention June 2011.
– Role of the Dental Profession in Forensic Investigations; ADAVic., June 2011.
– Role of the Forensic Odontologist in Missing Persons
Investigations. Missing Persons Units/CrimTrac Representatives.
ACT Nov 2010.
–The role of Forensic Odontologist in Missing Persons
Investigations.
–NSW Coroner/Victoria Police, Melbourne 2011.
–The role of Forensic Odontologist in Missing Persons
Investigations Queensland Coroner/Queensland MPU,
Melbourne 2011.
– Role of Forensic Odontology in the Identification process and
DVI investigations. Path Update Presentation Old Melbourne
Goal Watch House 2011.
– Dental Aging of Neo-Nates: A Pilot Study. Scientific Advisory
Group Age Estimation Workshop, Adelaide, May 2010.
Kipsaina C.
– Injury – Determinants, prevention and rehabilitation, Masters of
Public Health Students, Burnet Institute, June 2011
Kitching F.
–Targeted Study of Injury Data Involving Motorised Mobility
Scooters, ACCC, Canberra, December 2010
Kottegoda Vithana E.
–Healthcare care services provision to Internally Displaced
Population in Sri Lanka, VIFM R&T presentation, May 2011.
–Healthcare care services provision to Internally Displaced
Population in Sri Lanka, SPHPM Seminar, June 2011.
McKelvie H.
– An alternative legal career, Our Lady of Sion College, Box Hill
August 2010.
Odell M.
– Old Drivers, St Georges Hospital, Kew, Trainees in Geriatrics
1 July, 2010.
– Fitness to Drive, GP Group, 26 August, 2010.
– Medico Legal Aspects of Traffic Medicine, ACLM Scientific
Meeting, Sydney 4 September, 2010.
– Clinical Forensic Medicine on trial, the role of the clinical
competencies in forensic medicine, ANZFSS Symposium,
(Sydney), 6 September, 2010.
– Member of a panel on DNA Contamination, ANZFSS
Symposium (Sydney), 8 September, 2010.
–Poster presentation on the AAFP, ANZFSS Symposium (Sydney)
9 September, 2010.
77
78
– Diabetes and Driving, Bogong GP’s 16 September, 2010.
–Traffic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Medical Students
Deakin, Geelong 15 April, 2011.
–Traffic Medicine, Monash Law Students, Monash University
19 April, 2011.
– MUARC seminar on drowsy drivers, Melbourne 21 April, 2011.
Pearse J.
–Presentation about the NCIS, LaTrobe University subject
“Inquests, Inquiries and Commissions” 4 February 2011.
Routley V.
– Rail suicides in Victoria: an overview. MTM Board Safety
Committee, 26 May, 2010.
–Patterns of rail suicide in Victoria. VIFM Research and Training
seminar 28 June 2011.
Towns J.
– STI’s, Monash Medical Centre, ED Registrars, 8 June, 2011.
Wells D.
–Paediatric Forensic Medicine, Monash Law Students, Monash
12 April, 2011.
– Adult Sexual Assault, Monash Law Students, Monash
12 April, 2011.
– Sexual Violence, African Forensic Medical Networking, Namibia
14 – 18 March, 2011.
– Sex Crimes & Young Children: An International Perspective, St
Mary’s Centre Conference, Manchester, UK March 2011.
Williams A.
–Poster presentation.
– Setting National Standards in Forensic Medicine.
– Dilemmas in Assessing Fitness for Interview.
– Definitions of contamination.
– Sexual Assault in older persons – a 10 year review.
– False reporting: Is it Diagnosable?
– ANZFSS Symposium (Sydney), 6 – 9 September, 2010 (2 days).
– Medical Women’s Lecture, VIFM 14 September, 2010.
Woodford N.
–Use of CT Scanning in Mass Disaster. East Grampians Health
Service AGM. Ararat. October 2010.
–The Pathologist at the Scene. Victoria Police Detective Training
School. Melbourne. September 2010.
– Interaction between Pathologists and Police Investigators.
State Police Coroner’s Assistant’s Unit Meeting. Melbourne.
August 2010.
Teaching
Blau S.
– Forensic Anthropology, Lecture to Elements of Forensic Science,
VIFM, Aug 2010
– Workshop on Forensic Investigations of Cases of Political and
Ethnic Violence: Recovery and Analysis of Human Remains for
Identification Purposes. Delivered with the EAAF to the Truth and
Reconciliation Commission, Solomon Islands, March 2011.
–Preservation and Interpretation of Forensic Evidence in the
Context of Human Rights Investigations. Workshop for the Office
of the Providoria for Human Rights and Justice (PDHJ), Dili, East
Timor, May 2011.
Boyd-O’Reilly A.
– Victoria Police Recruits, VIFM, Apr & June 2011.
Daking L.
– Supervision of three (3) Health Information Management 2nd and
3rd year placement students.
Drummer OH.
–Lecture to RMIT undergraduate students on “Principles of
Toxicology”, Bundoora Campus, 20 September 2010.
– RMIT undergraduate students Moot Court/Toxicology laboratory
at VIFM, 27 September2010.
– RMIT undergraduate students Moot Court/Toxicology laboratory
at VIFM, 4 October2010.
Gaya S.
–Police Recruits, VIFM, Aug 2010.
–Police Negotiators, VPC, Oct 2010.
– Discipline Investigation Course, Bendigo, Oct 2010.
–ESD lecture, Watsonia, Nov 2010.
– Detective Training School, VIFM, Dec 2010.
– Detective Training School, Academy Mount Waverley,
Dec 2010.
–Police Recruits, VIFM, Dec 2010.
–ESD lecture, VPC, Mar 2011.
– Constables Course, Kingston Links, Mar 2011.
Haas S.
– Supervision of Masters Criminology Student from University of
Melbourne, Industry Placement
Herson M.
– International On Line Tissue Banking Course – Transplant
Procurement Management, University of Barcelona , 21st
March–27th May, 2011 – Module 2–4 – Ethical and Regulatory
Issues in Tissue Banking (along Mr Scott Brubaker and Mr
Johann Kurtz) – 4th –10th April, 2011.
– Coordination of visit of the Indian delegation led by the Director
General of Health Services – New Dehli, Dr R.K. Srivastava.
– Invited Visiting Professor (International) – Instituto de Pesquisas
Energeticas e Nucleares (University of Sao Paulp) – Brazil –
Examination Panel for the evaluation of final presentation for the
obtention of Doctorate Degree – candidate: Fabiana de Andrade
Bringel – “Morphofunctual evaluation of human skin preserved
by glycerol and submitted to gama radiation and grafted in
athymic mice” – 25th April 2011.
– Invited Visiting Professor (International) – Instituto de Pesquisas
Energeticas e Nucleares (University of Sao Paulo) – Brazil –
Examination Panel for the evaluation of final presentation of
Master Degree candidate: Silvana Cereijido Altran “Replacement
of xenobiotic components, applied in the culture medium for the
maintenance of humans keratinocytes in cultures, by human
similar” – 3rd June 2011.
Hill AJ.
– Forensic Odontology and the Law, Elements of Forensic
Medicine, VIFM Aug /May 2011.
– Management of Dead Bodies Following Disasters: An important
aspect of a disaster preparedness plan. ASEAN Member States
Preparedness in Human Remains Management (HRM) and
Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) Following Mass Fatalities,
Jakarta Indonesia .
–Understanding the Use of Forensic Evidence in Criminal
Investigations: An Introductory Course for Prosecutors and
Police in Timor-Leste. Dili, East Timor.
– Management of Human Remains for First Responders,
Malaysian Civil Defence/International Committee of the Red
Cross. Kula Lumpur Oct 2010.
–General Forensic Odontology Training to UAE delegates. VIFM.
Jan. 2011.
– Master of Forensic Medicine curriculum. New course outline
written Jan/Feb 2011.
– Forensic Unit in Master of Forensic Medicine. Non Accidental
Injury –Bitemark Evidence.
– Curriculum details for Forensic Odontology Accreditation Royal
College of Pathologists.
Jones CB.
– An Introduction to Law and Doctor-Patient Communication:
obtaining medical consent; Confidentiality in clinical practices:
legal aspects; Mental Health Legislation and Clinical Practice,
MIPS/Avant Medical Law Tutorial Program.
McKelvie H.
– Medical Law Program, Department of Forensic Medicine,
Monash University.
Odell M.
– Constables Course, Academy Mount Waverley, Jul 2010.
– Constables Course, Academy Mount Waverley, Sep 2010.
–Police Negotiators, VPC, Sep 2010.
–Police Recruits, VIFM, Nov 2010.
– Road Policing Strategic Advisory Group, Dandenong, Nov 2010.
– Detective Training School, VIFM, Nov 2010
– General Education talk – Kieran Walshe, VIFM, Mar 2011.
–Police Recruits, VIFM, Mar 2011.
–ESD lecture, Port Melbourne, Apr 2011.
Ozanne-Smith J.
–PhD supervision: 8 students (2010/11).
Parkin J.
– Detective Training School, VIFM, Jun 2011.
– DTS, VIFM, Sep 2010.
–Police Recruits, VIFM, Sep 2010.
– First Responder Sexual Assault, Horsham, May 2011.
– Detective Training School, VIFM, May 2011.
Poniatowski S.
– International On Line Tissue Banking Course – Transplant
Procurement Management, University of Barcelona , 21st
March–27th May, 2011 – Module 4–5 – Quality Assurance –
Quality Control & Tissue Banking Organisation (along Dr Deirdre
Fehily and Dr Izabela Tyszkiewicz) – 11th –17th April, 2011.
Ranson D.
–Post Graduate Pathology teaching, “Forensic Pathology and the
Medico-Legal Autopsy”, RCPA, Jul 2010.
–Homicide Squad, “Senior Investigation and Trace Evidence
Management”, VIFM, Jul 2010.
– Masters of Public Health – Unit 2086, “Applied Safety and
Quality – Forensic Pathology Aspects”, Monash University,
July 2010.
– Coroners Court Open Day, “Forensic Pathology and Medical
Death Investigation”, Jul 2010.
–Lecture “Expert Witness Perspective”, VIFM, Aug 2010.
– “A Career in Pathology and Forensic Pathology”, University of
Melbourne Medical Student Society, Aug 2010.
–National Institute of Forensic Science New Practitioners
Workshop, “Forensic Pathology and the Forensic Scientist”,
Sep 2010.
Death Investigation”, Nov 2010.
– “Medico-Legal Report Writing”, VIFM, Jan 2011.
–Tribunals and Quasi-Judicial Bodies Course, “Medico-Legal
Death Investigation and the Coroners Inquest”, La Trobe
University, Feb 2011.
Death Investigation”, Feb 2011.
– Detective Training School of Victoria Police, “Forensic Pathology
and Death Investigation, Mar 2011.
– Victoria Police Melbourne Crime Desk Course, “The Role of the
Forensic Pathologist”, April 2011.
– Medical Law Tutorial, Monash University, “Consent”, Apr 2011.
– Medical Law Tutorial, Monash University, “End of Life”,
Apr 2011.
– Medical Law Tutorial, Monash University, “Organ and Tissue
Legal Issues”, May 2011.
– Medical Evidence Workshop, Department of Forensic Medicine,
Monash University, May 2011.
– Detective Training School of Victoria Police, “Forensic Pathology
and Death Investigation, May 2011.
Death Investigation”, Jun 2011.
Sungaila A.
– SOCAU Course, Moorabbin, Aug 2010.
– ESD lecture, Bentleigh Club, Sep 2010.
– Constables Course, Rowville, Nov 2010.
–Police Recruits, Academy Mount Waverley, May 2011.
– Discipline Investigation Course, Ararat, May 2011.
Towns J.
– ESD lecture, Broadmeadows, Aug 2010.
– Police Recruits, VIFM, Sep 2010.
– Constables Course, Academy Mount Waverley, Oct 2010.
– Police Recruits, VIFM, Oct 2010.
– Constables Course, Kingston Links, Dec 2010.
– Police Recruits, VIFM, Jan 2011.
– Constables Course, Kingston Links, Feb 2011.
– Police Recruits, VIFM, Feb 2011.
–
–
–
–
–
Police Recruits, VIFM, Feb 2011.
Constables Course, VIFM, Feb 2011.
Police Recruits, VIFM, Feb 2011.
Constables Course, VIFM, Mar 2011.
Police Recruits, VIFM, Apr 2011.
Wells D.
–Police Recruits, VIFM, Jul 2010.
–Prisoner Management Forum, South Yarra, Jul 2010.
–Paediatric Forensic Medicine, Elements of Forensic Medicine,
April 2011.
– Sexual Assault, Elements of Forensic Medicine, April 2011.
–ESD lecture, Morwell, Jul 2010.
–Police Negotiators, Victoria Police, May 2011.
– Forensic Practitioners, Windhoek, Namibia
Williams A.
– Forensic Case Group, VIFM, 11/22/2010.
– SOCAU Course, Academy Mount Waverley, 7/30/2010.
– SOCAU Course, Moorabbin, 3/15/2011.
– SOCAU Course, Academy Mount Waverley, 5/26/2011.
Woodford N.
– RCPA QAP in Forensic Pathology. Preparation and Marking of
Module.
Research
National Coronial Information System
–
A joint project was conducted between the Australian Institute
of Criminology and the NCIS Unit to compare the Deaths in
Custody database and the NCIS to determine the concordance
of information held between the two data sets.
Centre for Human Identification
–
–
–
–
Bassed, RB: The Scientific analysis of the age of majority using
computed tomography – PhD research completed June 2011.
Dr Soren Blau, Dr Tony Hill, Dr Jodie Leditschke, Helen
Messinis. Estimating Age at Death: Refining Current
Anthropological Techniques for neonates (birth) to early
childhood (6 years).
Dr J Graham, Dr AJ Hill. An on-going collaboration was
established in October 2010 between VIFM and Dr J Graham to
conduct research into the use of CT imaging of the development
and calcification of the human dentition as it relates to age
assessment of neo-nates
Dr J Bouchner, Dr AJ Hill. In May 2011 collaboration
was proposed between the VIFM and the University of
Saskatchewan to investigate the influence of jaw size on molar
initiation, impaction and agenesis.
–
–
–
Herson M. Ongoing collaboration with Monash Medical School
– The Alfred Cell culture Laboratory – Ms Heather Cleland
Herson M. Ongoing collaboration – CSIRO Biomaterials Dept. –
Mr Jerome Werkmeister
Herson M. Ongoing collaboration – Melbourne University –
Department of Bioengineering – Andrea O’Connor
–
Saar E (PhD student). Eva Saar has been conducting research
into the area of antipsychotic drugs in the context of postmortem toxicology. This project involved a development of an
analytical method for the detection of antipsychotic drugs in
post-mortem blood. This method development has resulted in
two peer-reviewed publications.
Antipsychotic drugs seem to show instability in post-mortem
blood, however, the extent of this and the implications have
not been studied extensively. Therefore, Eva Saar focused on a
systematic study to determine the stability of the most common
antipsychotic drugs in blood samples. Olanzapine showed
extensive stability problems and was therefore targeted for
further studies. These experiments also resulted in two peerreviewed publications.
79
80
–
Pilgrim J (PhD student). The candidate has found a significant
proportion of deaths reported to the coroners have inadvisable
combinations of commonly used drugs. This suggested both
poor prescribing and ill-informed patients risking their health. The
research identified a number of ways to improve the detection of
such cases and reduce mortality.
–
Wort C, Beyer J. Catherine Wort has been seconded from
routine work to assist in the development of a screening
method for the detection of 234 compounds in human urine.
This method will assist the toxicology laboratory to detect
more compounds, improve the sensitivity of detection, and
speed up the turn-around times of the laboratory. The method
development has been finalised and the method is now
implemented for routine use. The project has resulted in a
conference publication and will also result in a peer reviewed
publication in the near future.
–
Vo T, Beyer J. Tu Vo has been assisting in the development of a
method for the detection and quantification of ethylglucuronide
and ethylsulfate in human urine. This method enables the
laboratory to provide the analysis of these ethanol metabolites
and helps in the interpretation of ethanol positives cases. The
projected resulted in a conference presentation and a peer
reviewed article.
–
Hargreaves M, Beyer J. Melynda Hargreaves has been
assisting in the development of a second updated and improved
version of our successfully introduced overnight toxicology
screening. This updated version will enable the toxicology
laboratory to detect more compounds in the overnight screening
and improves the robustness of the method. The project is still
ongoing, however close to completion.
–
–
Chu M. Mark Chu has applied a recently developed method
for the detection of the most common drugs of abuse in oral
fluid to cases submitted by Victoria Police. These samples
originate from impaired drivers which are routinely tested for
three proscribed drugs of abuse. This project and the application
of the new method allowed determining the prevalence of nonproscribed drugs in impaired drivers. The project has resulted in
a conference presentation and a peer reviewed article.
VIFM LC-MS method for the detection of ethylglucuronide and
ethylsulfate in urine. Sophie Turfus, Tu Vo and Jochen Beyer
have started the comparison experiment, and the data will be
presented at an upcoming conference and also be published in
a peer reviewed journal article.
–
Ammann J. Julia Ammann will assist in the development of
a method for the detection of novel synthetic cannabinoids in
biological samples. The synthetic cannabinoids have recently
become popular in the rapidly changing drug scene in order
to provide a legal alternative to cannabis. Many countries have
already acted on this recent development and illegalised the
consumption of these compounds, however currently available
drug test are not able to detect these compounds. The method
development at VIFM will contribute to the ability to detect
synthetic cannabinoids and enable the determination of their
prevalence in Australian populations. The research project is
still ongoing.
–
Ammann D. Dominic Ammann will assist in the development of
a method for the detection of synthetic cathinone-type designer
drugs in biological samples. The cathinone-type designer
drugs have been reported to be used extensively in the rapidly
changing drug scene. Recent case reports have alerted to
fatalities after consumption. The method development at VIFM
will contribute to the ability to detect cathinone-type designer
drugs and enable the determination of their prevalence in
Australian populations. The research project is still ongoing.
Department of Forensic Medicine – Monash
University
–
Jones C.B. Advice was given to the NCIS on a data change
characteristics research program. This will be ongoing
involvement.
–
Kottegoda Vithana E. Sri Lankan Pilot on WHO/ Monash
mortuary based injury surveillance project
–
Ozanne-Smith J. Mortuary based fatal injury surveillance. As a
joint project of the World Health Organization and the Monash
University Department of Forensic Medicine, this project was
established in early 2009 and has continued through 2010
and 2011. This project has been supported by Victorian Public
Health Training Fellows and public health doctoral candidates,
Dr Nathan Grills and Dr. Chebi Kipsaina, on placement at the
Department between 2009 and 2011. VIFM pathologists pretested the data collection instrument. Dr. Eeshara Kottegoda
Vithana joined the team in October 2010 as a visiting Research
Fellow from Sri Lanka. He led the Sri Lankan pilot study.
A further four countries, mostly in Africa, have completed
pilot studies to date and evaluation of the pilots is underway
at the DFM. Two studies on drowning prevention have been
commissioned by the World Health Organization.
Beyer B. (In conjunction with ABSciex) VIFM toxicology was able
to secure cooperation with ABSciex to perform two comparison
projects for improvement of general unknown screening
techniques. These general unknown screenings enable to test
for substances that are currently not covered by toxicology
screening techniques. In both projects, ABSciex has provided
instrument time, as well as a staff member (Brad Patterson)
to assist.
The analysis of the samples in one of the projects was
performed on a newly released mass spectrometry system
which is currently not available in Australia. ABSciex has
therefore provided funds to travel to Shanghai, China.
–
–
Both projects have attracted much interest amongst toxicology
colleagues and could be presented at conferences relevant
to the field. It should be mentioned that one of the projects
was able to secure a conference talk at the largest mass
spectrometry conference worldwide (ASMS)
Beyer B. (In conjunction with Pharmacology at Monash
University) Jochen Beyer has been co-supervising a honours
research project at Monash University. This project enables the
determination of the effects of intralipid, a lipid injection that
assists in the treatment of acute intoxications. To date, intralipid
is used as a last option in the management of acute intoxications
with sedatives and local anaesthetics in the hope to reduce the
blood concentrations of these drugs and to save patient lives.
This project will determine the effectiveness of the treatment by
measuring the blood concentrations before and after treatment
with intralipid in an in vitro experiment. The project is still ongoing
and has so far resulted in a conference presentation.
Turfus S, Vo T, BeyerJ (in conjunction with Microgenics) VIFM
toxicology was able to secure cooperation with Microgenics to
perform a comparison study of a recently developed commercial
test for ethylgluguronide in urine with the newly developed
(1)Update on the evidence for effectiveness of childhood
drowning prevention measures
(2) Attributes of an optimal program for swimming and water
survival training
–
Ozanne-Smith J. RS-10 road safety intervention in China.
Internationally, the PRU contributes to the World Health
Organization’s role in evaluated intervention programs for
drink-driving and speeding in the cities of Suzhou (Jiangsu
Province) and Dalian (Liaoning Province) in China, where deaths
and injuries associated with rapid motorisation have been
predicted to escalate. China is one of 10 countries undertaking
similar projects over 5 years with funding from Bloomberg
Philanthropies (2010–2014).
–
Ozanne-Smith J. Work related fatality. The Department of
Forensic Medicine received substantial funding from WorkSafe
via the Institute for Safety, Compensation and Recovery
Research (ISCRR) over two years for a project entitled “WorkRelated Fatality”, which commenced October 2009. This major
project continued throughout 2010 and into 2011. Research
themes include work related suicide and a variety of unintentional
work related fatality and methodology studies.
–
–
Ozanne-Smith J. Prevention of Motorised Mobility ScooterRelated Deaths and Injuries. The substantial number of deaths
and injuries associated with motorised mobility scooters among
older persons is of national concern. Research was conducted
for the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission
to inform directions for prevention at government policy and
regulation, design, and community levels.
Dodd M.
– ANZFSS 20th International Symposium on the Forensic
Sciences: “Forensic Science on Trial”, Sydney Convention &
Exhibition Centre, 5–9 September 2010
Ozanne-Smith J. Deaths involving Oxycodone. This study was
conducted in Victoria in response to an emerging epidemic
of fatal drug toxicity involving oxycodone in the United States
and Canada. Angela Rintoul led this study while participating
in the Victorian Public Health Training Scheme. Conference
presentations and a publication from this study have continued
in 2010/11.
–
Forensic Science and Technology Conference, Shanghai Police
Department, 19–22 October 2010. Keynote speaker, Academic
Committee of Forensic Science, Shanghai.
–
Mass Spectrometry in Forensic Toxicology, GTFCh Meeting,
International Symposium on Clinical Toxicology, Homburg,
Germany, 3 December 2010.
–
Monash University Management Conference, Clayton Campus,
10 February 2011.
Conference Attendance
Anderson M.
– Australasian Tissue Biotherapeutics Forum 12th Annual
Scientific Meeting, 10–13 May, 2011 Melbourne.
Baber Y.
– British Association of Forensic Medicine, November 2010,
Cambridge, UK.
–Paediatric Abusive Head Trauma, 7–8th July, San Francisco,
USA.
Bedford P.
– 18th International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and
Laboratory Medicine, Berlin May 15–19.
– 32nd Pathology Education Symposium, Snowmass– Colorado,
Feb 6–11, 2011.
Blau S.
– Reclaiming Stolen Lives: Forensic Sciences and Human Rights
Investigations Conference, Jakarta, Indonesia, June 2010
– 20th International Symposium on the Forensic Sciences of
the Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society
(ANZFSS), Sydney, 5th–9th Sept, 2010.
Drummer OH.
– 48th Annual Meeting of TIAFT, Joint Meeting with the GTFCh,
Bonn, Germany, 19 August–2 September 2010.
–Homicide by Poisoning and Forensic Toxicology, RCPAPathology & Melbourne’s Underbelly, The Old Melbourne Gaol
Watch House.
–
RCPA Annual General Meeting and Forensic Advisory
Committee Meeting, Pathology Update, 3–5 March 2011.
–Plenary lectures at joint meeting of the French Toxicological
Society & TIAFT (with Society for Hair Testing) meeting,
Chamonix, France, and the Italian Society of Forensic Toxicology
meeting in Desenzano, Italy, 21–26 March 2011.
–
Chaired the Annual TIAFT Board Meeting, Zagreb, Croatia,
and held a 2-day symposium for Eastern European forensic
toxicologists with the Balkan countries.
–
ANZFSS 20th International Symposium on the Forensic
Exhibition Centre, 5–9 September 2010.
Keynote presentation: “The role of Forensic Toxicology in Courts”
–
Forensic and Clinical Toxicology Association (of Australasia),
(FACTA) meeting, IMAX Theatre, Darling Harbour, Sydney, 8
September 2010.
Beyer J.
– 48th Annual Meeting of The International Association of
Forensic Toxicologists (TIAFT), Joint Meeting with the Society of
Toxicological and Forensic Chemistry (GTFCh), Bonn, Germany,
19 August–2 September 2010.
Conducted Workshop on “Detection of drugs in alternative
matrices: focus on oral fluid” and
Bouwer H.
– International Association of Medical Examiners ans Coroners,
Annual training Conference, Las Vegas, 20 – 24 Jun, 2011
Fitzsimons A.
Scientific Meeting, 12th May, 2011 Melbourne.
Chu M.
Gaya S.
– FFLM (Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine), London, UK 13
–14 May, 2011.
Collett S.
Gerostamoulos D.
Cotsonis J.
– Asia-Pacific Coroners Society Conference, Auckland, 23–25
November, 2010.
Lecture on “Comparison of pros and cons for urine vs. Oral fluid
vs. hair testing”.
–
ANZFSS 20th International Symposium on the Forensic
Cordner S.
– Asian DVI Commanders Conference, Jakarta Centre for Law
Enforcement Co-Operation, Semarang, Indonesia, Jan 2011.
–
September 2010.
Crockett L.
– 38th Annual Florida Medical Examiners Educational Conference,
Florida, USA. June 22–24 2011.
– Mississippi Medical Examiners Educational Conference,
Mississippi, USA, June 2011.
Daking L.
– Australasian Mortality Data Interest Group Workshop,
Melbourne, 18–19 Nov, 2010.
–Health Information Management Association of Australia
Conference, 27–29 October 2010
Davies K.
– Australasian Tissue Biotherapeutics Forum, 12th Annual
Haas S.
– Australasian Mortality Data Interest Group Workshop,
Melbourne, 18–19 Nov, 2010.
Hamilton K.
81
82
Haouchar R.
Herson M.
Higgins S.
Hill AJ.
– 20th International Symposium on the Forensic Sciences of
the Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society
(ANZFSS), Sydney, 5th–9th Sept, 2010.
Jones CB.
– Safety In Action, Melbourne. April, 2011
Kottegoda Vithana E.
– Australian Mortality Data Interest Group Workshop, Melbourne,
18–19 Nov 2010
Kourtis I.
–
September 2010.
Lynch M.
– 7th International Congress of the Baltic Medico-Legal
Association, Helsinki, Finland, 11–14 Nov 2010.
–
Medical Negligence Conference, Melbourne, 18 Mar 2010.
Manning L.
– Asian DVI Commanders Conference, Jakarta Centre for Law
Enforcement Co-Operation, Semarang, Indonesia, Jan 2011.
McKelvie H.
–Leadership for the Future: Hope Dignity and Spirit in
Organisation, Group Relations Conference, Sept.27–Oct 2 2010,
Parkville Australia.
Odell M.
– Australian College of Legal Medicine Annual Scientific meeting,
Sydney 4 – 5 September, 2010.
–
ANZFSS Symposium, Sydney 6 – 9 September, 2010.
–
International Traffic Medicine Association (ITMA) Traffic Medicine
Conference, Chonqquing, China, 13 May, 2011 (10 days).
Pilgrim JL.
–The International Association of Forensic Toxicologists. Bonn,
Germany, 29 Aug – 3 Sep 2010.
Pearse J.
– Asia-Pacific Coroners Society Conference, Auckland, 23–25
November, 2010.
–
Data Governance 2011 Conference, Melbourne.
Markert T.
– Security Sensitive Biological Agents Regulatory Scheme
Workshop, July 2010.
Mc Neil K.
Poniatowski S.
– 19th Attendance of International Congress of the European
Association of Tissue Banks, Berlin, Germany, Nov 3–5 2010.
Rapporteur for the Quality Workshop.
–
Australasian Tissue Biotherapeutics Forum 12th Annual
Routley V.
– 10th World Conference on Injury Prevention and Safety
Promotion, London. 21–24 Sep 2010
–
Suicide Prevention: a dialogue across disciplines and cultures,
4th Asia Pacific Regional Conference of the IASP, Brisbane,
17–20 Nov 2010
–
22nd World Congress of International Traffic Medicine
Association, Chongqing China, 13–16 May 2011
Sadler K.
Stewart B.
Shaw L.
Towns J.
– Advanced Life Support Course, RACGP (Melbourne) 18 – 20
March, 2011.
–HIV S100 Prescribing Course, GPV (Melbourne) 28 – 29 May,
2011.
Wells D.
– African Forensic Medical Network meeting, Windhoek, Namibia
14 – 18 March, 2011.
–
St Mary’s Conference, Manchester, UK 22 – 24 February, 2011.
Williams A.
– Australian College of Legal Medicine Annual Scientific Meeting,
Sydney 4 – 5 September, 2010.
Ozanne-Smith J.
– International Society for Child and Adolescent Injury prevention,
Bristol UK, Sep 2010
–
–
Safety 2010 World Conference, London UK, Sep 2010
–
SIDS and Kids Annual Conference. Sydney. October 2010.
–
International collaborative Injury Data Conference, Swansea
Wales UK, Sep 2010
–
RCPA Annual Scientific Meeting, Rotorua. September 2010.
–
ANZFSS Meeting. Sydney. September 2010.
–
Global Burden of Disease Africa meeting, Swansea Wales UK,
Sep 2010
–
Australasian Mortality Data Interest Group Conference,
Melbourne, Nov 2010
Parsons S.
– Australasian Mortality Data Interest Group Conference,
Melbourne, Nov 2010
–
Medico-legal Conference, New York, July 2010
–
Medico-legal Conference, Melbourne, Mar 2010.
ANZFSS Symposium, Sydney 7 September, 2010.
Woodford N.
– RCPA Pathology Update. Melbourne. February 2011.
Woods J.
Appendix C: Committees
Council Sub-Committees
The Ethics Committee
The Council has five working committees to ensure compliance with
legislative, accreditation and other regulatory requirements.
The Ethics Committee is constituted and operates in accordance
with the National Health & Medical Research Council National
Statement on Ethical Conduct in Research Involving Humans.
Executive and Finance Committee (EFC)
The Committee considers and where appropriate approves, on the
basis of ethical principles, applications for:
• research involving the use of human tissue retrieved from the
deceased undergoing a medical examination for the investigation
of cause of death; and
• research involving the use of information generated and/or
stored at VIFM;
The Council of the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (“the
Institute”) has appointed an Executive and Finance Committee
(“the EFC”) to assist it in fulfilling its governance responsibilities. The
Council has delegated certain functions to the EFC, as set out below.
The EFC is a standing Committee of Council and its functions are to:
• Oversee and monitor the service and financial performance of
the Institute against the strategic plan and the budget;
• Review and recommend the annual budget prior to submitting it
to Council for approval;
• Contribute to the development of the Institute’s strategic plan;
• Oversee and monitor the performance of key policies and
strategies, as required;
• Advise Council about the Institute’s progress towards the
delivery of the strategic plan;
• Recommend to Council the undertaking of reviews of service
areas, as required;
• Consider any other matters referred to it by Council and or
management; and
• Review executive and medical salaries pursuant to Section 3.4.7
of the Standing Directions of the Minister for Finance under the
Financial Management Act 1994.
In performing its duties, the EFC will maintain effective working
relationships with the Council and management.
Members:
Professor R Conyers (Chair), Professor S Cordner, Mr. N Robertson,
Mr. Tim Fitzmaurice, Ms Mari-Ann Scott (member & executive officer)
Audit and Risk Management Committee (ARMC)
The Council of the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (the
Institute) has appointed the Audit and Risk Management Committee
(ARMC) to assist it in fulfilling its governance responsibilities. In
particular, the ARMC is to assist the Council in overseeing matters
of accountability and internal control affecting the operations of the
Institute. The Council has delegated certain functions to the ARMC
as set out below.
The ARMC is a standing committee of Council and its functions
are to:
• Consider reports from employees of the Institute and the
auditors about the integrity of the Institute’s financial processes,
systems and reporting;
• Advise Council on the effectiveness of the financial and other risk
management frameworks, including reviewing and approving the
annual risk management framework and attestation statement;
• Review the financial and other risk policies of the Institute;
• Oversee all internal and external audit processes;
• Review and advise the Council on matters of accountability and
the delegation of financial authority;
• Review, monitor and advise the Council on systems of financial
control;
• Review and approve the Institute’s process for monitoring
compliance with laws and regulations including, but not limited
to, financial management; and
• Review other strategic policies that are of relevance to the
ARMC, including but not limited to, delegations, procurement,
purchasing and outsourcing/contractors.
Members
Prof. R Conyers (Chair), Mr. N Robertson, Mr. Tim Fitzmaurice,
Ms Mari-Ann Scott (in attendance)
The Committee considers any other questions of ethics affecting
the operation of the VIFM as referred by the Director of VIFM. These
matters do not include performance issues concerning the conduct
of individual employees. It considers and advises the VIFM Council
on the development of guidelines and policies relating to the ethical
aspects of research at the VIFM and provides ethical guidance on
issues submitted to it that relate to the operations of the Institute.
Members
Mr Stephen Nossal (Chair), Deputy Chief Magistrate Felicity
Broughton, Magistrate Jacinta Heffey, Coroner Audrey Jamieson, Mr
Trent Brickle, Ms Joanne Nolan, Ms Lynne Wenig, Professor Stephen
Cordner, Associate Professor David Wells, Dr Marisa Herson, Dr
Richard Nowotny (retired July 2010), Dr Danny Sullivan (appointed
February 2011).
Executive Officers: Ms Fiona Leahy, Ms Helen McKelvie.
The Donor Tissue Bank Advisory Board
The Advisory Board is a sub-committee of council and was
established by Council.
1.The functions of the Board are:
–To advise the Council and the Director of the VIFM about
management and operations of the Donor Tissue Bank of
Victoria;
–To oversee and monitor the operational guidelines of the Donor
Tissue Bank of Victoria. This includes review of proposed
amendments to technical procedures and of relevant documents
to assure compliance with the Bank’s procedures;
–To refer any matters involving issues of ethics to the VIFM Ethics
Committee for advice and
–To receive reports, suggestions, and advice from the various
user groups as represented on the Board.
2.The Board may create subcommittees to assist in its functions
but may not delegate any of its functions.
3.Preparation of the papers for meetings is a responsibility of the
Head, Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria.
4. The minutes of Board meetings will be included in the Agenda
papers for the meeting of the Council immediately following. The
Donor Tissue Bank Advisory Board (the Board) is established
and its membership appointed by the Council of the VIFM.
5. The Chair of the Advisory Board is the Director of the VIFM.
6. Membership of the Board is for a three year period, or any lesser
period decided by the Council. Appointments to the Board are
renewable.
7. The Board meets at least three times a year, usually in February,
June and October.
Members
Professor S Cordner (Chair), Mr. N Bergman, Ms. H Cleland, Mr. B
Davis, Mr. P Skillington, Mr. D Spelman, Mr. I West, Ms L. Ireland.
Executive Officer – Dr Marisa R Herson
83
84
The National Coronial Information System
Committee
The National Coronial Information System (NCIS) is managed by the
Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine and the NCIS Committee is
established to provide guidance and support for that management.
The Committee’s functions are to:
1. Monitor the operation of the National Coronial Information
System;
2.Provide guidance and support necessary for the NCIS to
discharge its responsibilities to the core funders, the VIFM
Council, State and Territory Coroners and any other key
stakeholders;
3. Oversee the provision of services by the NCIS in accordance
with agreements made with user agencies;
4. Receive and approve budget statements;
5. Receive and approve quarterly operational reports;
6. Receive and approve bi-annual and annual reports to be
provided to the NCIS Board of Management via the VIFM
Council;
7.Play an active role in ensuring effective communication between
the NCIS and the core funders, the VIFM Council; State and
Territory coroners (including the Australasian Coroners’ Society)
and any other key stakeholders;
CSC Social Club Committee
Murray Hall (President), Jarrod Boxall (Vice President), Joanne Hanna
(Treasurer), Emily Orchard (Secretary 2010), Melynda Hargraves,
Mark Chu, Jennifer Pilgrim, Luke Rodda, Michelle Spiden, Fiona
Lawrence, Leanna La Combre, Leanna Daking, Kim McNeil, Alex
Alimansjah, Penny Tayler.
Internal Governance
The Research Advisory Committee
The Research Advisory Committee has been established to:
• To provide a strategic direction in the conduct of research at
VIFM and for projects using VIFM intellectual property that are
conducted off site.
• To advise the Institute’s Ethics Committee on the scientific merit
of projects.
• To establish and manage a research project register of all
proposed, current and post research projects.
• Encourage collaborative partnerships amongst researchers in
similar fields
• Assist project leaders in accessing the scientific merit and project
design of each proposal.
8. Oversee and review the NCIS user pays system;
Members
Professor Olaf Drummer, Professor Joan Ozanne-Smith, Dr Irene
Kourtis, Dr Dadna Hartman, Dr Belinda Gabbe and Ms Fiona Leahy.
9.Provide advice on privacy or ethical issues; and
Quality Review Committee
10. Assess the feasibility of any proposals for new enhancements
or major developments for the NCIS; and provide
recommendations to the NCIS Board of Management about
such proposals.
The Quality Review Committee (QRC) oversees and monitors the
VIFMs quality system and operational quality issues.
Members
Judge Jennifer Coate (Chair and VIC State Coroner), Magistrate
Mary Jerram (NSW State Coroner), Professor James Harrison
(Director of National Injury Surveillance Unit), Professor Joan OzanneSmith (Head, Prevention Research Unit), Professor Olaf Drummer
(Head of Forensic Scientific Services, VIFM)
Other Institute Committees
Occupational Health, Safety & Environment
(OHS&E) Committee
The OHS&E committee meets every bi-monthly and is a forum for
representatives from all parts of the Coronial Services Centre to raise
any OHS&E issues for action. Hazards are identified and reported
by staff through the Continuous Improvement and Corrective Action
system (eCIRCA) or directly to their OHS committee representatives.
Incidents are reviewed by the OHS&E committee allowing incident
trends and continuous improvement actions to be discussed and
implemented. The purpose of this committee is to:
• Develop and review safety procedures in use in the VIFM and the
State Coroner’s Office;
• Develop and review staff training and education in relation to
OHS&E;
• Study incident statistics and examine any trends and
recommend control measures and improvements; and
• Commission regular OHS&E audits, and recommend changes
flowing from these.
Members from VIFM
Leanna La Combre (Chair), Katie Sadler, Emily Orchard, Frances
Adamas, Mark Chu, Jim Cosentino, Ben Stewart, Helen Makrakis
(on leave from July 2010 to June 2011), Ms D Stevens , Fiona
Lawrence, Lyndie-Leigh Shaw, Luke Rodda (Deputy Warden), Joy
Beyer, Vicky Winship, Kimberley McNeil, and Jodie Wadeson.
Members from CCoV
Ms E Catford, Ms K Pieters, Ms S Mallon
During 2010–11, the committee reviewed and approved the VIFM
Quality Framework. The committee also reviewed VIFM Internal Audit
Program findings, Quality Assurance Program (QAP) performance,
and Continuous Improvement – Corrective Action (CIRCA) trends
and issues relating to Complaints, Compliments, Equipment,
Evidence Handling, External Service, Improvement Request, Internal
Service, OHSE Issues, Safety Incidents and QAPs. The committee
reviewed a number of internal investigation reports initiated as a
result of complaints received or any other significant issue affecting
VIFM’s service quality. Operations staff and Heads of Service have
been invited to report on the implementation of recommendations
resulting from these investigations which was also monitored by
the committee.
Members
Mari-Ann Scott (Chair), A/Prof David Ranson and Noel Woodford
(attendance as Acting Director), Prof Olaf Drummer, Leanna La
Combre and Frances Adamas.
Client Liaison Groups
Work Related Fatality Project: Steering Committee (2010/11)
Professor Joan Ozanne-Smith (DFM, Chair), Associate Professor
Alex Collie (ISCRR), Professor Olaf Drummer (DFM), Mr Trevor Martin
(WorkSafe 2010), Ms Jane Hall (WorkSafe 2011)
WHO/Monash Mortuary Based Injury Surveillance Project:
International Advisory Group
Dr Margie Peden (WHO), Dr Yvette Holder (St Lucia), Professor
Shanthi Ameratunga (Uni Auckland, NZ), Dr Lois Fingerhut (USA),
Professor Gordon Smith (Uni Maryland,USA), Associate Professor
James Harrison (Flinders Uni, Australia), Professor Stephen Cordner
(VIFM) , Dr Eeshara Kottegoda Vithana (MOH Sri Lanka), Dr Kavi
Balla (Harvard USA), Dr Richard Matzopoulus (MRC, South Africa),
Dr Nathan Grills (DFM), Professor Joan Ozanne-Smith (DFM)
Appendix D: VIFM Staff by Department
Director’s Office
Director – Stephen Cordner AM MA MB BS BMedSci Dip Crim
DMJ(Path) FRCPATH FRCPA
Deputy Director – David Ranson BMedSci BM BS LLB FACLM
FRCPath FRCPA FFFLM DMJ(Path)
Human Resources and Organisational
Development
Manager Human Resources and Organisational Development –
Richard Prokop
Human Resources Consultants:
Chief Operating Officer – Mari-Ann Scott BEcon (Hons) MPhil
Lisa Omer
Manager Medico-legal – Helen McKelvie LLB BA
Angela Piacente
Senior Medico-legal Officer – Fiona Leahy LLB(Hons) BA
Amir Qajar BA Hons MBA HRM
Medico-legal Research Officer – Katrina Stuart BBNSc (Hons), JD
Manager National and International Programs – Elizabeth Manning
B.Arts (Hons) PhD (Sociology)
Internal Management Consultant – Peter Wallace
Manager, DTBV Operations – Stefan Poniatowski BSc (Hons)
MIBMS
Manager Information and Data Analysis – Vicky Winship BSc (Hons)
Graphic Designer and Photographer – John Lloyd-Fillingham
Head, Administration Support Services – Mari-Ann Scott BEcon
(Hons) MPhil
Manager Governance Strategic Projects and Risk – Leanna La
Combre BA GradDipPP LLB
Senior Occupational Health and Safety Consultant – Emily Orchard
BSc MFc Sc MBA (Exec)
Communications Project Officer – Andrea Hince BA DipHR
Executive Administration Officer – Fiona Lawrence
Finance and Business Services
Chief Finance Officer – Peter Ford FCCA
Finance Manager – Lauren Murton BA/Bcom DipModLang CPA
Facilities Management Officer – Jim Cosentino
Finance Officer – Margaret Stolke
Functions and Administration Officer – David Freeman
Purchasing and Supplies Officer – Bryce Marshall
Head Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria – Marisa Herson MD PhD
Administration Officers:
Charmain Anderson
Dianne Ansell
Tissue Donor Co-ordinators:
Josephine Boyle
Seana Casey-Giles RN Ma CommMgt
Karen Davies
Ainslie Fitzsimons
Senior Scientist – Research and Development – Kellie Hamilton
BSc (Hons)
Scientist – Katy Sadler MSc
Scientist – Ben Stewart BSc
Microbiologists:
Alina Inserra
Tyra Markert BSc (Hons)
Jenny Milne BSc (Hons) MSc B.Litt MASM
Technicians:
Alastair Freemantle
Danielle McLean
Kimberley McNeil BSc Health (Paramedic)
Talitha Pitt
Jonathon Tarascio BAppSc Dip Lab Tech
Receptionist – Gaie Russell
Technology Services
Manager Technology Service – Murray Hall BAppSc Beng
Senior Project Officer – Jarrod Boxall Cert(IT)
Service Desk Support Officer – Lakshan De Run BITS
Senior Analyst/Developer – Peter Edbrooke BAppSci (CompSci)
Manager VIFM Library – Kerry Johannes ARMIT AALIA
Information Support Analyst – Jenny Neame BA GradDip AppSci
GradDip TESOL DipEd
Head, Forensic Scientific Services – Olaf Drummer PhD(Med)
BAppSc(Chem) MRACI FRCPA FFSC FACB
Business Operations Manager – Irene Kourtis PhD BAppSc(Hons)
GDip IP Law
Quality and Improvement Officer – Soumela Horomidis BSc
Executive Administration Officer – Ceril Pereira
Administration and Clerical Assistant – Luba Pylnik
Systems Architect – Gavin Reichel BComp
Toxicology
Acting Manager, Forensic Imaging Services – Clair Richards
BAppSc (Hons)
Manager, Toxicology – Dimitri Gerostamoulos PhD BSc (Hons)
Windows & Desktop Administrator – Ron Rose BAppSc
Senior Research Officer – Sophie Turfus BSc (Hons) MSc PhD
Manager, Forensic Imaging Serv – Caroline Rosenberg BSc
CertIVForSc
Quality and Improvement
Manager Quality and Improvement – Frances Adamas BSc(Hons)
MBiotechBus
Quality and System Improvement Officer – George Djordjevic BSc
Quality and Improvement Officer – Soumela Horomidis BSc
Quality and System Improvement Officer – Tram Lam
Quality Support Officer – Helen Makrakis
Senior Applications Chemist – Jochen Beyer PhD B. Pharm
Senior Scientists:
Kerryn Crump DipAppSc BAppSc MSc
Linda Glowacki PhD BAppSc (Hons)
Alex Kotsos MSc BSc
Maria Pricone Bsc (Hons)
Voula Staikos BAppSc
Scientists:
Mary Boratto BSc (Hons)
Mark Chu PhD (Med), BSc (Hons)
Matthew Di Rago BAppSc
Jessica Fernandez BSc (Hons)
Natalia George BAppSc MBA
Melynda Hargreaves
85
86
Elizabeth Jenkins BSc (Hons) MSc
Brenda Kirkby BBiotech(Hons)
Jennifer Pilgrim PhD BSc(Hons)
Luke Rodda BAppSc (Hons) PhD Candidate
Eva Saar BPharm PhD candidate
Penny Tayler MSc BSc
Tu Vo BAppSc
Tham Vu BSc (Hons)
Jennifer Wallington BAppSc (Hons)
Sophie Widdop
Katherine Wong BSc (Hons)
Catherine Wort BSc BA
Su Wan Yap
Technical Officers:
Irene Kantzidis
Karen Lee U/Grad BSc
Melissa Peka
Grace Wang
Histopathology
Manager, Histology – David Cauchi BSc
Senior Scientist – Joanne Hanna BAppSc
Scientist – Patricia Lai BAppSc
Scientist – Michael Pais BAppSc
Technician – Robert Coyle Dip Lab Tech
Molecular Biology
Manager, Molecular Biology – Dadna Hartman BSc (Hons) PhD
Senior Scientist – April Stock BSc (Hons)
Senior Scientist – Joy Beyer BA/BSc (Hons)
Scientists:
Linda Benton BSc
Ashil Davawala BSc GradDip (BioTech) GradDip (MedLabSci)
Jane Devenish-Meares
Andrew Schlenker BSc Adv (Hons)
Michelle Spiden MSc BSc/BA
Research Assistant – Zoe Bowman
National Coronial Information System
Manager, National Coronial Information System – Jessica Pearse
BIM
Analyst Programmer – Alexander Alimansjah BComp
Coder FRC Database – Tracey Caulfield
QA IT Officer – Cheuk Chan
Access Officer – Joanna Cotsonis
Coronial Liaison Officer – Lisa Crockett
Quality Manager – Leanne Daking BHlM BBusIT
Administration Officer – Catherine Daley BSocSc Grad Dip(Arts)
GradCert(Arts).
Administration Officer – Andrea Gallo
Senior Research Officer – Steven Haas Bpharm BPharmSci(Hons)
PhD
Senior Coder FRC Database – Bronwyn Hewitt BHIM
Quality Assistant – Jill Russell
FRCD Quality Assistant – Jennifer To
Medico-Legal Death Investigations
Forensic Pathology Services
Head Forensic Pathology – Noel Woodford MBBS LLM DMJ(Path)
FRCPA FRCPath
Acting Head, Forensic Pathology (Dec 2010 – June 2011) – Melissa
Baker MBBS (Hons) FRCPA
Business Operations Manager – Jeff Lomas BA Grad Dip Social
Science (Gestalt Therapy)
Forensic Pathologists:
Yeliena Baber MBBS MRC SEd FRCPath
Paul Bedford MB BS FRCPA DipForensPath
Michael Burke MB BS BSc FRCPA DipForensPath
Malcolm Dodd MBBS FRCPA DMJ(Path) AssocDipMLT FFFLM
(RCP-UK) FACBS MACLM GradCertHealth Prof Ed (Monash)
Linda Iles BMSc MB BS (Hons) FRCPA DMJ (Path)
Jacqueline Lee MD
Matthew Lynch MB BS LLB (Hons) FRCPA DipForens Path DMJ
(Path)
Sarah Parsons B Med Sci (Hons) MB BS (Hons) (Tas) FRCPA
Shelley Robertson MBBS LLB AMusA FRCPA DMJ(Path) FACLM
DAvMed MHealSc FFFLM
Fellow in Forensic Pathology – Heinrich Bouwer
Radiologist – Chris O’Donnell MBBS FRANZCR MMed
GradDipForMed
Pathology Registrars:
Eleanor Bott MBBS BSc (Hons)
Pritinesh Singh MBBS
Medical Liaison Nurse Consultants:
Melissa Mogford BA (Nursing) GradDip (Paed Crit Care) GradCert
(Health Management)
Natalie Morgan
Patricia O’Brien GradDipCrim MBA BA ITN RM RN
Jill Thompson
Medical Administration Officers:
Laura Hart
Mary Reddan
Jill Lloyd
Pathology Records and Accounts Officer – Jeanette Buckley
Medical Records and Case Management Officer – Carole Spence
Forensic Technical Services
Manager, Forensic Technicial Services (on international exchange) –
Jodie Leditschke BSc PhD
Acting Manager Forensic Technical Services – Rebecca Ellen
Senior Forensic Technical Officers:
Keith Bretherton
Sarsha Collett BSc (Hons)
Samantha Higgins BSc
Barry Murphy CertAnatPath
Emily Orchard BSc MFc Sc MBA (Exec)
Manager, Forensic Imaging Services – Peter Bury Dip MedLabSci
DipPhoto
Forensic Radiographer – Jacqueline Hislop-Jambrich
Forensic Technicial Officers:
Evan Leckenby BAppSc (MedSci)
Abby McClure BSc
Helen Messinis
Erin Olsen
Gemma Radford
Stephen Russell
Lyndie-Leigh Shaw Dip HealthSci (Nursing) Dip(Ambulance
Paramedic)
Danielle Stevens
Jennah Tiu BSc Cert III(Path)
Forensic Technical Assistant – Leah Leighton
Human Identification Services
Visiting Research Fellow – Chebi Kipsaina MD(Moscow) MPH(WA)
Forensic Entomologist – Melanie Archer BSc (Hons) PhD
Visiting Research Fellow – Eeshara Kottegoda Vithana MBBS MSc
MD
Forensic Odontologist – Richard Bassed BDS GradDipForOdont
PhD Candidate
Senior Forensic Anthropologist – Soren Blau BA Hons MSc PhD
Forensic Anthropologist – Christopher Briggs DipEd BSc MS PhD
Senior Forensic Odontologist – Anthony Hill BDS GradDipForOdont
Clinical Forensic Medicine Services
Head, Clinical Forensic Medici – David Wells OAM MA MBBS DMJ
GradCertHigherEd DipRACOG FRACGP FACLM FFLM
Senior Forensic Physician – Morris Odell BE (Hons) MBBS FRACGP
DMJ FACLM FFFLM
Forensic Physicians:
Nicola Cunningham BMed FACEM
Sanjeev Gaya MB BS DMJ (Clin) MFFLM
Janet Towns BMed FRACGP MForensMed
Angela Williams MBBS MForensMed Grad Dip Law FACLM
MFFLM
Angela Sungaila MBBS MForensMed
Consultant Physician George Jelinek
CFM Registrars:
Alison Boyd-O’Reilly
John Lindsay
Jo Ann Parkin
Fernando Pisani
Quality Management System Implementation Officer – Tanya
Corocher
Senior Project Manager – Barbara Thorne BA GradDipCrim
Sexual Assault Projects and Policy Officer – Alexander Gillard
Business Operations Manager – Elisabeth Lowry BHMSc
Business Support Coordinator – Maria Mammen
Administration Officers:
Gabrielle Conners
Charlotte Smith
Noelle Large
Administration Assistant – Elizabeth Daly
Department of Forensic Medicine,
Monash University
Chair of Forensic Medicine – Stephen Cordner AM MA MB BS
BMedSci Dip Crim DMJ(Path) FRCPATH FRCPA
Head of Department – Olaf Drummer PhD BAppSc MRACI FRCPA
FFSC FACB
Department Manager – Vicki McAuliffe Exec CertBusMgt
Administrator, Postgraduate Courses – Debbie Hellings CertBus
Administrative Officer – Dimitria Semertjis BA(Hons)
Medical Law Program
Convenor, Medical Law Program – Leanna Darvall LLB PhD
Administrative Officer, Medical Law Program – Natalie Oakley
Prevention Research Unit
Head, Prevention Research Unit – Joan Ozanne-Smith MBBS MPH
MA MD FAFPHM
Consultant, Forensic Physician – Joseph Ibrahim MBBS PhD
FAFPHM FRACP
Senior Research Fellow Virginia Routley BEc GradDipAppSci MPH
PhD
Research Fellow – Chris Jones LLB(Hons) GDLP PhD
Research Assistant – Gael Trytell BSc BA(Hons)
Research Assistant – Fiona Kitching BA/BSci
Administrative Officer – Marie-Claire Davis BPsych(Hons)
PhD Students
Richard Bassed BDS GradDipForOdont PhD candidate
Janet Davey MSc PhD candidate
Jennifer Pilgrim BSc(Hons) PhD candidate
Luke Rodda BAppSc(Hons) PhD Candidate
Eva Saar BPharm(Germany) PhD candidate
Adjunct Staff
Adjunct Associate Professor – Christopher Briggs
Adjunct Associate Professor – David Wells
Adjunct Clinical Associate Professor – David Ranson
Bethia Wilson
Melanie Archer
Helen McKelvie
Melissa Baker
Malcolm Dodd
Jodie Leditschke
Noel Woodford
Soren Blau
Terence Donald
Matthew Lynch
Shelley Robertson
Angela Williams
Morris Odell
Marisa Herson
Sarah Parsons
Anthony Hill
Chris O’Donnell
Linda Iles
Sanjeev Gaya
Dadna Hartman
Cecily Jane Freemantle
Dimitri Gerostamoulos
Jochen Beyer
Lyndal Bugeja
87
88
Appendix E: VIFM Contract Staff
Forensic Medical Officers Providing
services across Victoria
Malcolm Alston
Kelly Davis
Nick Demediuk
John Guymer
Ruth Hand
John Henderson
Louisa Hope
Joanne Love
Rebecca McGowan
Jennie Mills
Dev Mitra
John Moran
Veronica Moule
Gerald Murphy
Brian Murphy
Morris Odell
JoAnn Parkin
Ian Price
Cameron Profitt
Jill Ramsey
Nicole Reid
Matt Ryan
Belinda Schoeffel
Dianne Sherrif
Andrew Soloczynskyj
Ruth Srewart
David Wilson
Forensic Nurse Examiners
Judy Armishaw
Hazel Bickerton
Christine Biesiekierski
Prunella Gifford-Ellis
Beverley Guilmartin
Josephine Heard
Karyn Hollenback
Renee McMahon
Colleen Mentis
Tanya Moseby
Simone Mulvihill
Patricia Muroyiwa
Adele O’Hehir
Jennifer Oxley
Shirley Pilkington
Sue Schulz
Kate Sloan
First Name Surname
Jill Thompson
Margaret Trail
Sheenah Van Eck
Suzanne Wallis
Tracie Warburton
Blood Service Nurses
Phillipa Ashworth
Adrian Barker
Kerry Barker
Mary Brettell
Anita Carol Carboon
Caroline Citerelli
Julienne Coleman
Paula Deavin
Vicky Dekraker
Damian Dorgan
Michelle Drummond
Jenny Elgood
Prunella Gifford-Ellis
Beverley Guilmartin
Frances Hammer
Josephine Heard
Karyn Hollenback
Ruth Jenkins
Angela Keating
Diane Kuipers
Helen Markham
Linda McCurdy
Debra Milroy
Sharna Moloney
Laurene Moore
April Morton
Tanya Moseby
Jason Moss
Adele O’Hehir
Christine Paraska
Leanne Parrello
Robyn Potter
Andrea Quanchi
Gerald Scanlon
Sue Schulz
Gillian Shilton
Armajit Singh
Kate Sloan
John Stafford
Lisa Tatchell
Jodie Thornhill
Patrick Turner
Erica Valeri
Sheenah Van Eck
Suzanne Wallis
Tracie Warburton
Debbie Weir
Fiona Weir
Ann Whelan
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2011
89
90
91
Comprehensive operating statement
30 June 2011
For the financial year ended 30 June 2011
2011
$
Notes
Continuing operations
Income from transactions
Grant - Department of Justice
Other income
2010
$
2(c)
2(a) & (b)
24,008,203
3,807,120
27,815,323
20,980,056
4,797,170
25,777,226
3(a)
3(b)
3(c)
3(d)
(18,987,142)
(888,793)
(18,412)
(8,005,404)
(27,899,751)
(17,503,442)
(833,220)
(17,030)
(7,303,997)
(25,657,689)
(84,428)
119,537
(567,595)
(3,134)
(2,460)
(573,189)
10,372
2,818
13,190
Net result
(657,617)
132,727
Comprehensive result
(657,617)
132,727
Expenses from transactions
Employee expenses
Depreciation
Interest expense
Total expenses from transactions
Net result from transactions (net operating balance)
Other economic flows included in net result
Net gain/(loss) on non-financial assets
Net gain/(loss) on financial instruments
Other gain/(loss) from other economic flows
Total other economic flows included in net result
4(a)
4(b)
4(c)
The Comprehensive operating statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
92
Balance sheet
30 June 2011
Balance sheet
As at 30 June 2011
Notes
Assets
Financial assets
Cash and deposits
Receivables
Total financial assets
2011
$
2010
$
2,324,579
6,196,878
8,521,457
2,043,336
5,826,907
7,870,243
16,813
8,875,499
8,892,312
14,364
6,889,836
15,492
6,919,692
17,413,769
14,789,935
1,340,976
203,475
5,026,531
713,626
7,284,608
1,233,993
281,794
4,523,393
632,793
6,671,973
Net assets
10,129,161
8,117,962
Equity
Accumulated surplus/(deficit)
Physical asset revlaution surplus
Contributed capital
Net worth
(2,573,122)
2,433,863
10,268,420
10,129,161
(1,915,505)
10,033,467
8,117,962
16
5
Non-financial assets
Inventories
Property, plant and equipment
Non-financial physical assets classified as held for sale
Total non-financial assets
7
6
Total assets
Liabilities
Payables
Borrowings
Provisions
Other liabilities
Total liabilities
Commitments for expenditure
Contingent assets and contingent liabilities
8
9
10
13
14
The Balance sheet should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
93
Statement of changes in equity
30 June 2011
Note
Physical asset
revalution
surplus
$
Accumulated
surplus
Contributions
by owner
Total
$
$
$
Balance at 1 July 2009
Net result for the year
Capital appropriations
-
(2,048,232)
132,727
-
10,033,467
-
7,985,235
132,727
-
Balance at 30 June 2010
-
(1,915,505)
10,033,467
8,117,962
2,433,862
-
(657,617)
-
234,955
2,433,862
(2,573,122)
10,268,421
Net result for the year
Transfer to accumulated surplus - on revaluation of assets
Capital appropriations
Balance at 30 June 2011
20
The above Statement of changes in equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
(657,617)
2,433,862
234,955
10,129,161
94
Cash flow statement
30 June 2011
Cash flow statement
Notes
2011
$
2010
$
Cash flows from operating activities
Receipts
Receipts from Government
Receipts from other entities
Interest received
Total receipts
23,935,667
3,461,862
44,691
27,442,219
19,067,122
5,312,909
34,262
24,414,293
Payments
Payments to suppliers and employees
Interest and other costs of finance paid
Total payments
(26,306,500)
(18,412)
(26,324,912)
(23,843,267)
(17,030)
(23,860,297)
Net cash flows from/(used in) operating activities
1,117,307
553,996
(1,009,747)
17,050
(992,697)
(730,260)
Cash flows from financing activities
Owner contributions by State Government
Repayment of finance leases
Net cash flows from/(used in) financing activities
234,953
(78,321)
156,633
(63,280)
(63,280)
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
281,243
(239,544)
16(b)
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchases for non-financial assets
(Proceeds) from the sale of Property Plant & Equipment
Net cash flows from/(used in) investing activities
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the financial year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the financial yea
16(a)
Non-cash transactions
16(b)
The Cash flow statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
(730,260)
2,043,336
2,282,880
2,324,579
2,043,336
95
Notes to the financial statements
30 June 2011
Note 1. Summary of significant accounting policies
The annual financial statements represent the audited general purpose financial statements for the Victorian Institute of
Forensic Medicine (the Institute).
The purpose of the report is to provide users with information about the Institute's stewardship of resources entrusted to it.
To gain a better understanding of the terminology used in this report, a glossary of terms and style conventions can be found in
Note 20.
(a) Statement of compliance
These general purpose financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Financial Management Act 1994
(FMA) and applicable Australian Accounting Standards (AAS), which include Interpretations issued by the Australian
Accounting Standards Board (AASB). In particular, they are presented in a manner consistent with the requirements of the
AASB 1049 Whole of Government and General Government Sector Financial Reporting .
Where appropriate, those AAS paragraphs applicable to not-for-profit entities have been applied.
The annual financial statements were authorised for issue by the Director of the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine on 7
September 2011.
Accounting policies are selected and applied in a manner which ensures that the resulting financial information satisfies the
concepts of relevance and reliability, thereby ensuring that the substance of the underlying transactions or other events is
reported.
(b) Basis of accounting preparation and measurement
The accrual basis of accounting has been applied in the preparation of these financial statements whereby assets, liabilities,
equity, income and expenses are recognised in the reporting period to which they relate, regardless of when cash is received or
paid.
The financial statements are presented in Australian dollars, the functional and presentation currency of the Institute.
In the application of AAS, judgements, estimates and assumptions are required to be made about the carrying values of assets
and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on
professional judgements derived from historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under
the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and associated assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are
recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised and also in future periods that are affected by the revision.
Judgements made by management in the application of AASs that have significant effects on the financial statements and
estimates, with a risk of material adjustments in the next year, are disclosed throughout the notes to the financial statements.
This report has been prepared in accordance with the historical cost convention. Historical cost is based on the fair values of
the consideration given in exchange for assets.
Exceptions to the historical cost convention include:
●
non-financial physical assets which, subsequent to acquisition, are measured at a revalued amount being their fair value
at the date of the revaluation less any subsequent accumulated depreciation and subsequent impairment losses. Revaluations
are made with sufficient regularity to ensure that the carrying amounts do not materially differ from their fair value; and
●
the fair value of an asset other than land is generally based on its depreciated replacement value.
The accounting policies set out below have been applied in preparing the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2011
and the comparative information presented for the year ended 30 June 2010.
96
30 June 2011
(c) Reporting entity
The financial statements cover the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine as an individual reporting entity. The Institute is a
body corporate established under Part 9 of the Victorian Coroners Act 1985 operating under the auspices of the Department of
Justice and reporting to Parliament through the Attorney-General. The Institute's objectives, functions, powers and duties are
set out in sections 64 to 66 of the Act. Its principal address is:
57-83 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Victoria, 3006
Objectives and funding
The Institute works predominantly in accordance with two pieces of legislation: the Coroners Act 1985 and the Human Tissue
Act 1982. Section 64(2) of the Coroners Act 1985 provides that the objectives of the Institute are:
●
to provide, promote and assist in the provision of forensic pathology and related services in Victoria and, as far as
practicable, oversee and co-ordinate those services in Victoria;
●
to promote, provide and assist in the post-graduate instruction and training of trainee specialist pathologists in the field of
forensic pathology in Victoria;
●
to promote, provide and assist in the post-graduate instruction and training of persons qualified in biological sciences in
the field of toxicological and forensic science in Victoria;
●
to provide training facilities for doctors, medical undergraduates and such other persons as may be considered
appropriate by the Council to assist in the proper functioning of the Institute;
●
to conduct research in the fields of forensic pathology, forensic science, clinical forensic medicine and associated fields
as approved by the Council;
●
to provide, promote and assist in the provision of clinical forensic medicine and related services to the police force of
Victoria and government bodies;
●
to promote, provide and assist in under-graduate and post-graduate instruction in the field of clinical forensic medicine in
Victoria;
●
to promote, provide and assist in the teaching of and training in clinical forensic medicine within medical, legal, general
health and other education programs; and
●
to provide for the storage of tissue, taken in accordance with the Human Tissue Act 1982 from deceased persons
coming under the jurisdiction of coroners in Victoria, for use for therapeutic purposes.
The Human Tissue Act 1982 regulates the donation of human tissue by living persons and after death. It provides authority for
post-mortem examinations, prohibits the trading in human tissue and gives a definition of death.
(d) Scope and presentation of financial statements
Income and expenses in the comprehensive operating statement are classified according to whether or not they arise from
‘transactions’ or ‘other economic flows’. This classification is consistent with the whole of government reporting format and is
allowed under AASB 101 Presentation of financial statements .
‘Transactions’ and ‘other economic flows’ are defined by the Australian system of government finance statistics: concepts,
sources and methods 2005 Cat. No. 5514.0 published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (see Note 20).
‘Transactions’ are those economic flows that are considered to arise as a result of policy decisions, usually interactions
between two entities by mutual agreement. Transactions also include flows within an entity, such as depreciation where the
owner is simultaneously acting as the owner of the depreciating asset and as the consumer of the service provided by the
asset. Taxation is regarded as mutually agreed interactions between the Government and taxpayers. Transactions can be in
kind (e.g. assets provided/given free of charge or for nominal consideration) or where the final consideration is cash.
‘Other economic flows’ are changes arising from market re-measurements. They include:
●
●
●
gains and losses from disposals, revaluations and impairments of non-current physical and intangible assets;
actuarial gains and losses arising from defined benefit superannuation plans; and
fair value changes of financial instruments.
The net result is equivalent to profit or loss derived in accordance with AASs.
97
30 June 2011
Balance sheet
Assets and liabilities are presented in liquidity order with assets aggregated into financial assets and non-financial assets.
Current and non-current assets and liabilities (those expected to be recovered or settled beyond 12 months) are disclosed in
the notes, where relevant.
Cash flow statement
Cash flows are classified according to whether or not they arise from operating, investing, or financing activities. This
classification is consistent with requirements under AASB 107 Statement of cash flows .
The statement of changes in equity presents reconciliations of each non-owner and owner equity opening balance at the
beginning of the reporting period to the closing balance at the end of the reporting period. It also shows separately changes due
to amounts recognised in the comprehensive result and amounts recognised in other comprehensive income related to other
non-owner changes in equity.
(e) Income from transactions
Income is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the entity and the income can be
reliably measured.
Government grants
Income from the outputs the Institute provides to Government is recognised when those outputs have been delivered and the
relevant Minister has certified delivery of those outputs in accordance with specified performance criteria.
Interest
Interest includes interest received from investments.
Interest income is recognised on a time proportionate basis that takes into account the effective yield on the financial assets.
Other income
Amounts disclosed as income are, where applicable, net of returns, allowances and duties and taxes. Income is recognised for
each of the Institute's major activities as follows:
The Fee for Service Fund and the Donor Tissue Bank
The Fee for Service Fund and the Donor Tissue Bank income represents services rendered to clients which are recognised
when the service is provided.
(f) Expenses from transactions
Expenses are recognised as they are incurred and reported in the financial year to which they relate.
Employee expenses
These expenses include all costs related to employment (other than superannuation which is accounted for separately)
including wages and salaries, fringe benefits tax, leave entitlements, redundancy payments and Work Cover premiums.
Superannuation - State superannuation defined benefit plans
The amount recognised in the Comprehensive operating statement in relation to employer contributions for members of defined
benefit superannuation plans is simply the employer contributions that are paid or payable to these plans during the reporting
period. The level of these contributions will vary depending upon the relevant rules of each plan, and is based upon actuarial
advice.
The Department of Treasury and Finance (DTF) in their Annual Financial Statements, disclose on behalf of the State as the
sponsoring employer, the net defined benefit cost related to the members of these plans as an administered liability. Refer to
DTF's Annual Financial Statements for more detailed disclosures in relation to these plans.
98
30 June 2011
All infrastructure assets, buildings, plant and equipment and other non-current physical assets (excluding items under operating
leases and assets held-for-sale) that have finite useful lives are depreciated. Depreciation is generally calculated on a straightline basis, at rates that allocate the asset’s value, less any estimated residual value, over its estimated useful life.
The estimated useful lives, residual vales and depreciation method are reviewed at the end of each annual reporting period,
and adjustments made where appropriate.
The following are typical estimated useful lives for the different asset classes for both current and prior years.
Asset class
Buildings
Plant, equipment and vehicles
Useful life
26 years
3 to 15 years
Interest expense
Interest expenses is recognised in the period in which it is incurred. Refer to Glossary of terms and style conventions in Note
20 for an explanation of interest expense items.
Other operating expenses generally represent the day-to-day running costs incurred in normal operations.
Supplies and services expenses are recognised as an expense in the reporting period in which they are incurred. The carrying
amounts of any inventories held for distribution are expenses when distributed.
Bad and doubtful debts
Refer to Note 1(i) Impairment of financial assets.
(g) Other economic flows included in the net result
Other economic flows measure the change in volume or value of assets or liabilities that do not result from transactions.
Net gain/(loss) on non-financial assets
Net gain/(loss) on non-financial assets and liabilities includes realised and unrealised gains and losses as follows:
Revaluation gains/(losses) of non-financial physical assets
Refer to Note 1(i) Revaluations of non-financial physical assets.
Disposal of non-financial assets
Any gain or loss on the sale of non-financial assets is recognised at the date that control of the asset is passed to the buyer
and is determined after deducting from the proceeds the carrying value of the asset at that time.
Impairment of non-financial assets
All other assets are assessed annually for indications of impairment, except for:
●
●
inventories (refer Note 1(j)); and
non-financial physical assets held for sale (refer Note (1(j)).
If there is an indication of impairment, the assets concerned are tested as to whether their carrying value exceeds their
recoverable amount. Where an asset's carrying value exceeds its recoverable amount, the difference is written off as an other
economic flow, except to the extent that the write-down can be debited to an asset revaluation surplus amount applicable to
that class of asset.
If there is an indication that there has been a change in the estimate of an asset's recoverable amount since the last
impairment loss was recognised, the carrying amount shall be increased to its recoverable amount. This reversal of the
impairment loss occurs only to the extent that the asset's carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would
have been determined, net of depreciation or amortisation, if no impairment loss had been recognised in prior years.
99
30 June 2011
It is deemed that, in the event of the loss or destruction of an asset, the future economic benefits arising from the use of the
asset will be replaced unless a specific decision to the contrary has been made. The recoverable amount for most assets is
measured at the higher of depreciated replacement cost and fair value less costs to sell. Recoverable amount for assets held
primarily to generate net cash inflows is measured at the higher of the present value of future cash flows expected to be
obtained from the asset and fair value less costs to sell.
Refer to Note 1(j) in relation to the recognition and measurement of non-financial assets.
Net gain/(loss) on financial instruments
Net gain/(loss) on financial instruments includes:
●
●
●
realised and unrealised gains and losses from revaluations of financial instruments at fair value;
impairment and reversal of impairment for financial instruments at amortised cost (refer to Note 1(h)); and
disposals of financial assets.
Other gains/(losses) from other economic flows
Other gains/(losses) from other economic flows include the gains or losses from:
●
the revaluation of the present value of the long service leave liability due to changes in the bond interest rates.
(h) Financial instruments
Financial instruments arise out of contractual agreements that give rise to a financial asset of one entity and a financial liability
or equity instrument of another entity. Due to the nature of the Institute's activities, certain financial assets and financial
liabilities arise under statute rather than a contract. Such financial assets and financial liabilities do not meet the definition of
financial instruments in AASB 132 Financial Instruments: Presentation .
Where relevant, for note disclosure purposes, a distinction is made between those financial assets and financial liabilities that
meet the definition of financial instruments in accordance with AASB 132 and those that do not.
The following refers to financial instruments unless otherwise stated.
Categories of non‑derivative financial instruments
Loans and receivables
Loans and receivables are financial instrument assets with fixed and determinable payments that are not quoted on an active
market. These assets are initially recognised at fair value plus any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial
measurement, loans and receivables are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment.
Loans and receivables category includes cash and deposits (refer to Note 1(i)), term deposits with maturity greater than three
months, trade receivables, loans and other receivables, but not statutory receivables.
Financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit and loss
Financial assets are categorised as fair value through profit or loss at trade date if they are classified as held for trading or
designated as such upon initial recognition. Financial instrument assets are designated at fair value through profit or loss on
the basis that the financial assets form part of a group of financial assets that are managed by the entity concerned based on
their fair values, and have their performance evaluated in accordance with documented risk management and investment
strategies.
Financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss are initially measured at fair value and attributable transaction costs are
expensed as incurred. Subsequently, any changes in fair value are recognised in the net result as other economic flows. Any
dividend or interest on a financial asset is recognised in the net result from transactions.
Financial liabilities at amortised cost
Financial instrument liabilities are initially recognised on the date they are originated. They are initially measured at fair value
plus any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, these financial instruments are measured at
amortised cost with any difference between the initial recognised amount and the redemption value being recognised in profit
and loss over the period of the interest‑bearing liability, using the effective interest rate method.
100
30 June 2011
Financial instrument liabilities measured at amortised cost include all payables, deposits held and advances received, and
interest‑bearing arrangements other than those designated at fair value through profit or loss.
Offsetting financial instruments
Financial instrument assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount presented in the consolidated balance sheet when, and
only when, the Institute concerned has a legal right to offset the amounts and intend either to settle on a net basis or to realise
the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
(i) Financial assets
Cash and deposits
Cash and deposits, including cash equivalents, comprise cash on hand and cash at bank.
Receivables
Receivables consist of:
●
statutory receivables, which include predominately amounts owing from the Victorian Government; and
●
contractual receivables, which include mainly debtors in relation to goods and services and finance lease receivables
(refer to Note 1(l)).
Receivables that are contractual are classified as financial instruments. Statutory receivables are not classified as financial
instruments.
Receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate
method, less any allowance for impairment.
A provision for doubtful receivables is made when there is objective evidence that the debts may not be collected and bad
debts are written off when identified.
Impairment of financial assets
At the end of each reporting period, the Institute assesses whether there is objective evidence that a financial asset or group of
financial assets is impaired. Objective evidence includes financial difficulties of the debtor, debts which are more than 60 days
overdue, and changes in debtor credit ratings. All financial instrument assets, except those measured at fair value through
profit or loss, are subject to annual review for impairment.
Bad and doubtful debts for financial assets are assessed on a regular basis. Those bad debts considered as written off by
mutual consent are classified as a transaction expense. The bad debts not written off by mutual consent and allowance for
doubtful receivables are classified as ‘other economic flows’ in the net result.
In assessing impairment of statutory (non-contractual) financial assets which are not financial instruments, professional
judgement is applied in assessing materiality using estimates, averages and computational methods in accordance with AASB
136 Impairment of assets .
(j) Non-financial assets
Inventories
Inventories include goods and other property held either for sale, or for distribution at zero or nominal cost, or for consumption
in the ordinary course of business operations.
Inventories held for distribution are measured at cost, adjusted for any loss of service potential. All other inventories are
measured at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Where inventories are acquired for no cost or nominal consideration,
they are measured at current replacement cost at the date of acquisition.
Bases used in assessing loss of service potential for inventories held for distribution include current replacement cost and
technical or functional obsolescence. Technical obsolescence occurs when an item still functions for some or all of the tasks it
was originally acquired to do, but no longer matches existing technologies. Functional obsolescence occurs when an item no
longer functions the way it did when it was first acquired.
101
30 June 2011
Non-financial physical assets classified as held-for-sale, including disposal group assets
Non-financial physical assets (including disposal group assets) are treated as current and classified as held-for-sale if their
carrying amount will be recovered through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use.
This condition is regarded as met only when:
●
the asset is available for immediate use in the current condition; and
●
the sale is highly probable and the asset's sale is expected to be completed within twelve months from the date of
classification.
These non-financial physical assets, related liabilities and financial assets are measured at the lower of carrying amount and
fair value less cists to sell, and are not subject to depreciation or amortisation.
Property, plant and equipment
All non-financial physical assets are measured initially at cost and subsequently revalued at fair value less accumulated
depreciation and impairment.
The initial cost for non-financial physical assets under a finance lease (refer to Note 1(l)) is measured at amounts equal to the
fair value of the leased asset or, if lower, the present value of the minimum lease payments, each determined at the inception
of the lease.
For the accounting policy on impairment of non-financial physical assets, refer to impairment of non-financial assets under
Note 1(g)).
Revaluations of non-financial physical assets
Non-financial physical assets measured at fair value in accordance with Financial Reporting Directions (FRDs) issued by the
Minister for Finance. A full revaluation normally occurs every five years, based upon the asset’s government purpose
classification, but may occur more frequently if fair value assessments indicate material changes in values. Independent values
are used to conduct these scheduled revaluations. Any interim revaluations are determined in accordance with the
requirements of the FRDs.
Revaluation increases or decreases arise from differences between an asset's carrying value and fair value.
Net revaluation increases (where the carrying amount of a class of assets is increased as a result of a revaluation) are
recognised in 'Other economic flows - other movements in equity' and accumulated in equity under the revaluation surplus.
However, the net revaluation increase is recognised in the net result to the extent that it reserves a net revaluation decrease in
respect of the same class of property, plant and equipment previously recognised as an expense (other economic flow) in the
net result.
Net revaluation decreases are recognised immediately as other economic flows in the net result, except that the net revaluation
decrease shall be recognised in 'Other economic flows - other movements in equity' to the extent that a credit balance exists in
the asset revaluation surplus in respect of the same class of property, plant and equipment. The net revaluation decrease
recognised in 'other economic flows - other movements in equity' reduces the amount accumulated in equity under the asset
revaluation surplus.
Revaluation increases and decreases relating to individual assets within a class of property, plant and equipment, are offset
against one another within that class but are not offset in respect of assets in different classes. Any asset revaluation surplus is
not normally transferred to accumulated funds on derecognition of the relevant asset.
Other non-financial assets
Prepayments
Other non-financial assets include prepayments, which represent payments in advance of receipt of goods and services or that
part of expenditure made in one accounting period covering a term extending beyond that period.
102
30 June 2011
(k) Liabilities
Borrowings
Borrowings are initially measured at fair value, being the cost of the borrowings, net of transaction costs (refer also to Note
1(l)).
Subsequent to initial recognition, borrowings are measured at amortised cost with any difference between the initial recognised
amount and the redemption value being recognised in net result over the period of the borrowing using the effective interest
rate method.
Payables
Payables consist of:
●
contractual payables, such as accounts payable and unearned income. Accounts payable represent liabilities for goods
and services provided to the Institute prior to the end of the financial year that are unpaid, and arise when the Institute becomes
obliged to make future payments in respect of the purchase of those goods and services; and
●
statutory payables, such as fringe benefits tax payable.
Contractual payables are classified as financial instruments and categorised as financial liabilities at amortised cost (refer to
Note 1(h)). Statutory payables are recognised and measured similarly to contractual payables, but are not classified as
financial instruments and not included in the category of financial liabilities at amortised cost, because they do not arise from a
contract.
Provisions
Provisions are recognised when the Institute has a present obligation, the future sacrifice of economic benefits is probable, and
the amount of the provision can be measured reliably.
The amount recognised as a liability is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at
reporting date, taking into account the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. Where a provision is measured using
the cash flows estimated to settle the present obligation, its carrying amount is the present value of those cash flows, using
discount rate that reflects the time value of money and risks specific to the provision.
Employee benefits
Provision is made for benefits accruing to employees in respect of wages and salaries, annual leave and long service leave for
services rendered to the reporting date.
(i) Wages and salaries, annual leave and sick leave
Liabilities for wages and salaries, annual leave and accumulating sick leave are recognised in the provision for employee
benefits, classified as current liabilities. Those liabilities which are expected to be settled within 12 months of the reporting
period, are measured at their nominal values.
Those liabilities that are not expected to be settled within 12 months are recognised in the provision for employee benefits as
current liabilities, measured at present value of the amounts expected to be paid when the liabilities are settled using the
remuneration rate excepted to apply at the time of settlement.
(ii) Long service leave
Liability for long service leave (LSL) is recognised in the provision for employee benefits.
Unconditional LSL is disclosed in the notes to the financial statements as a current liability even where the Institute does not
expect to settle the liability within 12 months because it will not have the unconditional right to defer the settlement of the
entitlement should an employee take leave within 12 months.
The components of this current LSL liability are measured at:
●
nominal value - component that the Institute expects to settle within 12 months; and
●
present value - component that the Institute does not expect to settle within 12 months.
Conditional LSL is disclosed as a non-current liability. There is an unconditional right to defer the settlement of the
entitlement until the employee has completed the requisite years of service.
103
30 June 2011
This non‑current LSL liability is measured at present value. Any gain or loss following revaluation of the present value of
non‑current LSL liability is recognised as a transaction, except to the extent that a gain or loss arises due to changes in bond
interest rates for which it is then recognised as an ‘other economic flow’ (refer to Note 1(g)).
(iii) Termination benefits
Termination benefits are payable when employment is terminated before the normal retirement date, or when an employee
accepts voluntary redundancy in exchange for these benefits. The Institute recognises termination benefits when it is
demonstrably committed to either terminating the employment of current employees according to a detailed formal plan without
possibility of withdrawal or providing termination benefits as a result of an offer made to encourage voluntary redundancy.
Benefits falling due more than 12 months after balance sheet date are discounted to present value.
Employee benefits on-costs
Employee benefits on-costs such as payroll tax, workers compensation and superannuation are recognised separately from
provision for employee benefits.
(l) Leases
A lease is a right to use an asset for an agreed period of time in exchange for payment.
Leases are classified at their inception as either operating or finance leases based on the economic substance of the
agreement so as to reflect the risk and reward incidental to ownership. Leases of property, plant and equipment are classified
as finance infrastructure leases whenever the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership
from the lessor to the to the lessee. All other leases are classified as operating leases.
Finance leases
Institute as lessee
At the commencement of the lease term, finance leases are initially recognised as assets and liabilities at amounts equal to the
fair value of the lease property or, if lower, the present value of the minimum lease payment, each determined at the inception
of the lease. The lease asset is depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the term of the lease.
Minimum finance lease payments are apportioned between reduction of the outstanding lease liability, and periodic finance
expense which is calculated using the interest rate implicit in the lease and charged directly to the Comprehensive operating
statement. Contingent rentals associated with finance leases are recognised as an expense in the period in which they are
incurred.
(m) Equity
Contributions by owners
Additions to net assets which have been designated as contributions by owners are recognised as contributed capital. Other
transfers that are in the nature of contributions or distributions have also been designated as contributions by owners.
(n) Commitments
Commitments are disclosed at their nominal value and inclusive of the goods and services tax (GST) payable.
(o) Contingent assets and contingent liabilities
Contingent assets and contingent liabilities are not recognised in the Balance sheet, but are disclosed by way of a note and, if
quantifiable, are measured at nominal value. Contingent assets and liabilities are presented inclusive of GST receivable or
payable respectively.
(p) Accounting for the Goods and Services Tax (GST)
Income, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of associated GST, unless the GST incurred is not recoverable
from the taxation authority. In this case it is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of the expense.
Receivables and payables are stated inclusive of the amount of GST receivable or payable.
Cash flows are presented on a gross basis.
104
30 June 2011
The Department of Justice manages the GST transactions on behalf of the Institute and the net amount of GST recoverable
from or payable to, the taxation authority is recognised in the Department of Justice's financial statements.
(q) AASs issued that are not yet effective
Certain new AASs have been published that are not mandatory for the 30 June 2011 reporting period. DTF assesses the
impact of these new standards and advises departments and other entities of their applicability and early adoption where
applicable.
As at 30 June 2011, the following standards and interpretations had been issued but were not mandatory for the financial year
ending 30 June 2011. The Institute has not adopted these standards.
105
30 June 2011
Notes to the financial statements continued
(q) AASs issued that are not yet effective (continued)
Standard/Interpretation
Summary
AASB 9 Financial
instruments.
This standard simplifies
requirements for the
classification and
measurement of financial
assets resulting from Phase 1
of the IASB’s project to
replace IAS 39 Financial
Instruments: Recognition and
Measurement (AASB 139
Financial Instruments:
Recognition and
Measurement ).
AASB 124 Related Party
Disclosures (December
2009).
Government related entities
have been granted partial
exemption with certain
disclosure requirements.
Applicable for annual
Impact on financial
reporting periods beginning
statements
or ending on
Beginning 1 January 2013.
Detail of impact is still being
assessed.
Preliminary assessment
suggests the impact is
insignificant.
However, the Institute is still
assessing the impact and
whether to early adopt.
AASB 1053 Application of
Tiers of Australian
Accounting Standards.
This Standard establishes a Beginning 1 July 2013.
differential financial reporting
framework consisting of two
tiers of reporting requirements
for preparing general purpose
financial statements.
The Victorian Government is
currently considering the
impacts of Reduced
Disclosure Requirements
(RDRs) for certain public
sector entities and has not
decided if RDRs will be
implemented to the Victorian
Public Sector.
AASB 2009-11 Amendments
to Australian Accounting
Standards arising from
AASB 9 [AASB 1, 3, 4, 5, 7,
101, 102, 108, 112, 118, 121,
127, 128, 131, 132, 136, 139,
1023 and 1038 and
Interpretations 10 and 12].
This Standard gives effect to
consequential changes
arising from the issuance of
AASB 9.
assessed.
Standards arising from
Reduced Disclosure
Requirements.
This Standard makes
Beginning 1 July 2013.
amendments to many
Australian Accounting
Standards, including
Interpretations, to introduce
reduced disclosure
requirements to the
pronouncements for
application by certain types of
entities.
Does not affect financial
measurement or recognition,
so is not expected to have
any impact on financial result
or position. May reduce some
note disclosures in financial
statements.
106
30 June 2011
(q) AASs issued that are not yet effective (continued)
Standard/Interpretation
Summary
Applicable for annual
Impact on financial
reporting periods beginning
statements
or ending on
No significant impact on the
AASB 2010-4 Further
Amendments to Australian
Accounting Standards arising
from the Annual
Improvements Project [AASB
1, AASB 7, AASB 101 &
AASB 134 and Interpretation
13].
This Standard makes
numerous improvements
designed to enhance the
clarity of standards.
Standards [AASB 1, 3, 4, 5,
101, 107, 112, 118, 119, 121,
132, 133, 134, 137, 139, 140,
1023 & 1038 and
Interpretations 112, 115, 127,
132 & 1042].
This amendment contains
editorial corrections to a
range of Australian
Accounting Standards and
Interpretations, which
includes amendments to
reflect changes made to the
text of IFRSs by the IASB.
No significant impact on the
Standards – Disclosures on
Transfers of Financial Assets
[AASB 1 & AASB 7].
This amendment adds and
changes disclosure
requirements about the
transfer of financial assets.
This includes the nature and
risk of the financial assets.
Beginning 1 July 2011.
This may impact on
departments and public
sector entities as it creates
additional disclosure for
transfers of financial assets.
assessed.
107
30 June 2011
Note 2. Income from transactions
2011
$
(a) Interest
Interest from financial assets not at fair value through P/L:
Interest from investments
Total interest
2010
$
44,691
44,691
34,262
34,262
(b) Sale of goods and services
Distribution of goods - Donor Tissue Bank
Rendering of services
Total sale of goods and services
1,616,853
2,145,576
3,762,429
1,577,083
3,185,825
4,762,908
Total other income
3,807,120
4,797,170
(c) Grants and other income transfers
Section 29 receipts
Department of Justice
Total grants and other income transfers
7,598,603
16,409,600
24,008,203
5,794,388
15,185,668
20,980,056
27,815,323
25,777,226
108
30 June 2011
Note 3. Expenses from transactions
2011
$
(a) Employee expenses
Post employment benefits
Defined contribution superannuation expense
Defined benefit superannuation expense
Salaries, wages and long service leave
Other on-costs (fringe benefits tax, payroll tax and workcover levy)
Total employee expenses
(b) Depreciation and amortisation
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
Buildings
Total depreciation and amortisation
(c) Interest expense
Interest on finance leases
Other interest expense
Total interest expense
(d) Other operating expenses
Purchase of supplies and consumables
Purchase of services
Maintenance
Lease expense
Total other operating expenses
2010
$
1,309,388
161,680
16,446,679
1,069,395
18,987,142
1,058,950
145,863
15,377,383
921,246
17,503,442
111,871
776,922
888,793
111,871
721,349
833,220
16,066
2,346
18,412
15,309
1,721
17,030
4,706,104
2,082,974
1,215,181
1,145
8,005,404
4,379,808
1,874,506
1,048,548
1,135
7,303,997
109
30 June 2011
Note 4. Other economic flows included in net result
2011
$
(a) Net gain/(loss) on non-financial assets
Net gain/(loss) on disposal of property, plant and equipment
Total gain/(loss) on non-financial assets
2010
$
(567,595)
(567,595)
-
(b) Net gain/(loss) on financial instruments
Recovery of loans and receivables
Total gain/(loss) on financial instruments
(3,134)
(3,134)
10,372
10,372
(c) Other gain/(loss) from other economic flows
Net gain/(loss) arising from revaluation of long service leave liability (i)
Total gain/(loss) from other economic flows
(2,460)
(2,460)
2,818
2,818
Note:
(i) Revaluation gain/(loss) due to changes in bond rates.
110
30 June 2011
Note 5. Receivables
Current receivables
Contractual
Other receivables (i)
Provision for doubtful contractual receivables (i) (see also Note 5(a) below)
Statutory
Amounts owing from Department of Justice (ii)
Total current receivables
Non-current receivables
Statutory
Amounts owing from Department of Justice (ii)
Total non-current receivables
Total receivables
2011
$
2010
$
1,169,490
(50,828)
1,118,662
868,922
(47,695)
821,227
4,573,216
4,573,216
4,537,120
4,537,120
5,691,878
5,358,347
505,000
505,000
468,560
468,560
505,000
468,560
6,196,878
5,826,907
Notes:
(i) The average credit period on sales of goods and/or services is 30 days. No interest is charged on other receivables. A
provision has been made for estimated irrecoverable amounts from the sale of goods and/or services, determined by reference
to past default experience. The decrease was recognised in the operating result for the current financial year.
(ii) The amounts recognised from Victorian Government represent funding for all commitments incurred through the
appropriations and are drawn from the Consolidated Fund as the commitments fall due.
(a) Movement in the provision for doubtful contractual receivables
2011
$
2010
$
Balance at beginning of the year
Increase/(decrease) in provision recognised in net result
Amounts recovered during the year
Reversal of provision of receivables written off during the year as uncollectible
(47,695)
(15,493)
12,360
(58,066)
(33,914)
44,285
-
Balance at end of the year
(50,828)
(47,695)
(b) Ageing analysis of contractual receivables
Please refer to Table 15.3 in Note 15(b) for the ageing analysis of contractual receivables.
(c) Nature and extent of risk arising from contractual receivables
Please refer to Note 15(b) for the nature and extent of credit risk arising from contractual receivables.
111
30 June 2011
Note 6. Non-current assets classified as held for sale
2011
$
2010
$
Non-current assets
Plant and equipment under finance lease
-
15,492
Total non-current assets classified as held for sale
-
15,492
112
30 June 2011
Note 7. Property, plant and equipment
Table 7.1. Classification by 'Purpose Group' (i) - Carrying amounts
Public Safety and Environment
2010
2011
$
$
Nature based classification (i)
Buildings at fair value
less accumulated depreciation
4,785,000
4,785,000
2,905,738
(442,730)
2,463,008
7,711,169
(3,821,534)
3,889,635
8,246,190
(4,083,417)
4,162,773
327,075
(126,211)
200,864
326,632
(62,577)
264,055
Plant, equipment and vehicles at cost:
Plant and equipment at cost
Plant and equipment under finance lease at cost
Net carrying amount of Property, plant and equipment
8,875,499
6,889,836
Note:
(i) Property, plant and equipment are classified primarily by the 'purpose' for which the assets are used, according to one
of six 'Purpose Groups' based upon Government Purpose Classifications (GPC). All assets within a 'Purpose Group' are
further sub-categorised according to the asset's 'nature' (i.e. buildings, plant and equipment etc), with each sub-category
being classified as a separate class of asset for financial reporting purposes.
Opening balance
Additions
Disposals
Transfer to assets classified as held for sale
Depreciation expense
Revaluation
Closing balance
2,463,008
(111,871)
2,433,863
4,785,000
2011
$
2010
$
2,463,008
2,574,879
(111,871)
Buildings at fair value
4,162,773
991,870
(569,274)
(695,734)
3,889,635
2011
$
4,162,773
4,089,115
730,260
(656,602)
2010
$
Plant and equipment at cost
Table 7.2. Classification by 'Public Safety and Environment' Purpose Group - Movements in carrying amounts
Note 7. Property, plant and equipment (continued)
264,055
33,370
(15,372)
(81,189)
200,864
2011
$
264,055
167,181
230,739
(53,626)
(15,492)
(64,747)
2010
$
Plant and equipment under
finance lease at cost
6,889,836
1,025,240
(584,646)
(888,793)
2,433,863
8,875,499
2011
$
Total
6,831,175
960,999
(53,626)
(15,492)
(833,220)
6,889,836
2010
$
30 June 2011
113
114
30 June 2011
Note 7. Property, plant and equipment (continued)
The following useful lives of assets are used in the calculation of depreciation:
Buildings
25 years
3 to 15 years
Freehold buildings carried at fair value
An independent valuation of the Institute's buildings was performed by the Valuer-General Victoria to determine the fair
value of the buildings. The valuation, which conforms to Australian Valuation Standards, was determined by reference to
the amounts for which assets could be exchanged between knowledgeable willing parties in an arm's length transaction.
The valuation was based on independent assessments. The effective date of the valuation is 30 June 2011.
115
30 June 2011
Note 8. Payables
2011
$
Current payables
Contractual
Amounts payable to other government agencies (i)
2010
$
1,315,599
25,377
1,340,976
1,203,567
13,000
1,216,567
-
17,426
Total current payables
1,340,976
1,233,993
Total payables
1,340,976
1,233,993
Statutory
Taxes payable - Fringe benefits tax
Note:
(i) Terms and conditions of amounts payable to other government agencies vary according to a particular agreement with that
agency.
(a) Maturity analysis of contractual payables
Please refer to Table 15.4 in Note 15 for the maturity analysis of contractual payables.
(b) Nature and extent of risk arising from contractual payables
Please refer to Note 15 for the nature and extent of risks arising from contractual payables.
116
30 June 2011
Note 9. Borrowings
2011
$
2010
$
Current borrowings
Finance lease liabilities (i) (Note 12)
Total current borrowings
123,106
123,106
112,549
112,549
Non-current borrowings
Finance lease liabilities (i) (Note 12)
Total non-current borrowings
80,369
80,369
169,245
169,245
203,475
281,794
Total borrowings
Note:
(i) Secured by the assets leased. Finance leases are effectively secured as the rights to the leased assets revert to the lessor
in the event of default.
(a) Maturity analysis of borrowings
Please refer to Table 15.4 in Note 15 for the maturity analysis of borrowings.
(b) Nature and extent of risk arising from borrowings
Please refer to Note 15 for the nature and extent of risks arising from borrowings.
117
30 June 2011
Note 10. Provisions
2011
$
2010
$
Current provisions
Employee benefits (i) (Note 10(a)):
Unconditional and expected to settle within 12 months (ii)
Unconditional and expected to settle after 12 months (iii)
2,882,494
931,736
2,552,973
877,412
Provisions related to employee benefit on-costs:
Unconditional and expected to settle within 12 months (ii)
Unconditional and expected to settle after 12 months (iii)
Total current provisions
568,200
139,100
4,521,531
483,587
140,861
4,054,833
438,958
66,042
505,000
407,040
61,520
468,560
5,026,531
4,523,393
Non-current provisions
Employee benefits (i) (Note 10(a))
Employee benefits on-costs
Total non-current provisions
Total provisions
(a) Employee benefits and related on-costs (i)
2011
$
2010
$
Current employee benefits
Annual leave entitlements
Long service leave entitlements
1,212,628
2,601,603
1,069,207
2,361,177
Non-current employee benefits
Long service leave entitlements
Total employee benefits
438,958
4,253,189
407,040
3,837,424
707,300
66,042
773,342
624,449
61,520
685,969
5,026,531
4,523,393
Current on-costs
Non-current on-costs
Total on-costs
Total employee benefits and related on-costs
Notes:
(i) Provisions for employee benefits consist of amounts for annual leave and long service leave accrued by employees, not
including on-costs.
(ii) The amounts disclosed are nominal amounts.
(iii) The amounts disclosed are discounted to present values.
118
30 June 2011
Note 10. Provisions (continued)
(b) Movement in provisions
On-costs
2011
$
Opening balance
Additional provisions recognised
Closing balance
685,969
87,374
773,342
Current
Non-current
707,300
66,042
773,342
119
30 June 2011
Note 11. Superannuation
Employees of the Institute are entitled to receive superannuation benefits and the Institute contributes to both defined benefit
and defined contribution plans. The defined benefit plan(s) provides benefits based on years of service and final average
salary.
The Institute does not recognise any defined benefit liability in respect of the plan(s) because the entity has no legal or
constructive obligation to pay future benefits relating to its employees; its only obligation is to pay superannuation contributions
as they fall due. The Department of Treasury and Finance recognises and discloses the State's defined benefit liabilities in its
financial report.
However, superannuation contributions paid or payable for the reporting period are included as part of employee benefits in the
Comprehensive operating statement of the Institute.
The name and details of the major employee superannuation funds and contributions made by the Institute are as follows:
Fund
Contribution outstanding at year
end
2010
2011
2010
$
$
$
Paid contribution for the year
2011
$
Defined benefit plans
State Superannuation Fund - revised and new
161,680
145,863
-
-
Defined contribution plans
VicSuper
Other
631,064
678,324
512,967
545,984
-
-
1,471,068
1,204,814
-
-
Total
Notes:
(i) The bases for determining the level of contributions is determined by the various actuaries of the superannuation plans.
(ii) The above amounts were measured as at 30 June of each year, or in the case of employer contributions they relate to the
years ended 30 June.
120
30 June 2011
Note 12. Leases
Disclosure for lessees - finance leases
Leasing arrangements
Finance leases relate to motor vehicles with lease terms of 3 years.
Minimum future lease payments Present value of minimum future
(i)
lease payments
Finance lease liabilities payable
Not longer than one year
Longer than one year and not longer than five years
Minimum future lease payments
Less future finance charges
Present value of minimum lease payments
2011
$
2010
$
132,185
81,455
213,640
(10,165)
203,475
125,857
178,423
304,280
(22,485)
281,794
Included in the financial statements as:
Current borrowings lease liabilities (Note 9)
Non-current borrowings lease liabilities (Note 9)
2011
$
123,106
80,369
203,475
203,475
112,549
169,245
281,794
281,794
123,106
80,369
112,549
169,245
203,475
281,794
Note:
(i) Minimum future lease payments includes the aggregate of all lease payments and any guaranteed residual.
(a) Maturity analysis of finance lease liabilities
Please refer to Table 15.4 in Note 15(c) for the ageing analysis from finance lease liabilities.
(b) Nature and extent of risk arising finance lease liabilities
Please refer to Note 15 for the nature and extent of risks arising from finance lease liabilities.
2010
$
121
30 June 2011
Note 13. Commitments for expenditure
(a) Capital expenditure commitments
There are no capital expenditure commitments. (2010 - Nil).
(b) Other expenditure commitments
There are no other expenditure commitments. (2010 - Nil).
(c) Lease commitments
Finance lease liabilities are disclosed in Note 12 to the financial statements.
122
30 June 2011
Note 14. Contingent assets and contingent liabilities
There were no contingent asset and liabilities at balance date not provided for in the Balance sheet. (2010 - Nil).
123
30 June 2011
Note 15. Financial instruments
(a) Financial risk management objectives and policies
The Institute's principal financial instruments comprise of;
●
●
●
●
cash assets;
receivables (excluding statutory receivables);
payables (excluding statutory payables); and
finance lease payables.
Details of the significant accounting policies and methods adopted, including the criteria for recognition, the basis of
measurement, and the basis on which income and expenses are recognised, with respect to each class of financial asset,
financial liability and equity instrument are disclosed in Note 1 to the financial statements.
The main purpose in holding financial instruments is to prudentially manage the Institute's financial risks within the Government
policy parameters.
The carrying amounts of the Institute's contractual financial assets and contractual financial liabilities by category are in Table
15.1.
124
30 June 2011
Note 15. Financial instruments (continued)
Table 15.1. Categorisation of financial instruments
Contractual financial
assets - loans and
receivables
2011
Contractual financial assets
Cash and deposits
Receivables
Total contractual financial assets
2,324,579
1,118,662
3,443,241
liabilities at amortised
cost
Contractual financial liabilities
Payables
Borrowings
Total contractual financial liabilities
$
$
1,340,976
203,475
1,544,451
Note:
(i) The total amounts disclosed here exclude statutory amounts (e.g. amounts owing from Victorian Government and taxes
payable).
assets - loans and
receivables
2010
Cash and deposits
Receivables
2,043,336
821,227
2,864,563
liabilities at amortised
cost
Payables
Borrowings
$
$
1,216,567
281,794
1,498,361
Note:
(i) The total amounts disclosed here exclude statutory amounts (e.g. amounts owing from Victorian Government and taxes
payable).
125
30 June 2011
Table 15.2. Net holding gain/(loss) on financial instruments by category
Total interest
income
$
2011
Cash and deposits
44,691
44,691
16,065
16,065
Total interest
income
$
2010
Cash and deposits
34,262
34,262
15,309
15,309
The net holding gains or losses disclosed are determined as follows:
●
For cash and cash equivalents and receivables, the net gain or loss is calculated by taking the interest revenue; and
●
For financial liabilities measured at amortised cost, the net gain or loss is calculated by taking the interest expense.
(b) Credit risk
Credit risk arises from the financial assets of the Institute, which comprise cash and deposits and trade and other receivables.
The Institute's exposure to credit risk arises from the potential default of the counter party on their contractual obligations
resulting in financial loss to the Institute. Credit risk is measured at fair value and is monitored on a regular basis.
Credit risk associated with the Institute's financial assets is minimal because the main debtor is the Victorian Government. For
debtors other than Government, it is the Institute's policy to only deal with entities with high credit rating.
Provision of impairment for financial assets is calculated based on past experience, and current and expected changes in client
credit ratings.
The carrying amount of financial assets recorded in the financial statements, net of any allowances for losses, represents the
Institute's maximum exposure to credit risk without taking account of the value of any collateral obtained.
126
30 June 2011
Financial assets that are either past due or impaired
Currently the Institute does not hold any collateral as security nor credit enhancements relating to any of its financial assets.
As at the reporting date, there is no event to indicate that any of the financial assets were impaired.
There are no financial assets that have had their terms renegotiated so as to prevent them from being past due or impaired, and
they are stated at the carrying amount as indicated. The following table discloses the ageing only of financial assets that are past
due but not impaired.
Table 15.3. Ageing analysis of contractual financial assets (i)
Past due but not impaired
Not past
Less than 1
due and not
month
impaired
Carrying
amount
2011
Cash and deposits
Receivables
2010
Cash and deposits
Receivables
$
$
$
1 to 3
months
3 months
to 1 year
$
$
2,324,579
1,118,662
2,324,579
-
934,986
75,186
108,490
3,443,240
2,324,579
934,986
75,186
108,490
2,043,336
821,227
2,043,336
-
393,586
239,085
188,555
2,864,563
2,043,336
393,586
239,085
188,555
Note:
(i) Ageing analysis of financial assets must exclude the types of statutory financial assets (eg. Amounts owing from Victorian
Government).
(c) Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk arises when the Institute is unable to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Institute operates under the
Government fair payments policy of settling financial obligations within 30 days and in the event of a dispute, make payments
within 30 days from the date of resolution.
The Institute's exposure to liquidity risk is deemed insignificant based on prior periods' data and current assessment of risk.
Maximum exposure to liquidity risk is the carrying amounts of financial liabilities as disclosed in the face of the Balance sheet,
except as detailed in the following table.
127
30 June 2011
Table 15.4. Maturity analysis of contractual financial liabilities
2011
Payables
Interest bearing liabilities
2010
Payables
Interest bearing liabilities
Weighted
average
interest rate
%
6.65%
6.78%
Maturity dates (i)
Carrying
amount
Nominal
amount
$
Less than 1
month
$
1 to 3
months
$
3 months
1 to 5 years
to 1 year
$
$
$
1,340,976
203,475
1,340,976
213,640
1,318,085
15,717
14,831
(600)
101,636
23,490
81,455
1,544,451
1,554,616
1,333,802
14,831
101,036
104,945
1,216,567
281,794
1,216,567
304,280
1,192,170
23,649
907
44,041
23,490
58,166
178,423
1,498,361
1,520,847
1,215,819
44,948
81,656
178,423
Note:
(i) The amounts disclosed are the contractual undiscounted cash flows of each class of financial liabilities.
(d) Market risk
The Institute's exposure to market risk is deemed insignificant based on prior periods' data and current assessment of risk.
(e) Fair Value
The Institute considers that the carrying amount of financial assets and financial liabilities recorded in the financial statements to be a
fair approximation of their fair values, because of the short-term nature of the financial instruments and the expectation that they will be
paid in full.
128
30 June 2011
Note 16. Cash flow information
(a) Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents
2011
$
2010
$
(i)
Total cash and cash equivalents disclosed in the Balance sheet
2,324,579
2,043,336
Balance as per Cash flow statement
2,324,579
2,043,336
Note:
(i) Due to the State of Victoria's investment policy and government funding arrangements, government departments and
agencies generally do not hold a large cash reserve in their bank accounts. Cash received by a department and agencies from
the generation of revenue is generally paid into the State's bank account, known as the Public Account. Similarly, any
departmental or agency expenditure, including those in the form of cheques drawn by the Institute for the payment of goods
and services to its suppliers and creditors are made via the Public Account. The process is such that, the Public Account
would remit cash required for the amount drawn on the cheques. This remittance by the Public Account occurs upon the
presentation of the cheques by the Institute's suppliers or creditors.
(b) Reconciliation of net result for the period
2011
$
Net result for the period
Non-cash movements
Depreciation and amortisation of non-current assets
Allowance for doubtful debts
Write down of fixed assets
Movements in assets and liabilities
(Increase)/decrease in receivables
(Increase)/decrease in inventories
(Decrease)/increase in payables
(Decrease)/increase in provisions
(Decrease)/increase in other liabilities
Net cash flows from/(used in) operating activities
2010
$
(657,617)
132,727
888,793
3,134
567,595
833,220
(10,372)
-
(373,104)
(2,449)
106,983
503,138
80,833
1,117,307
(1,603,985)
2,901
(30,213)
978,294
251,424
553,996
129
30 June 2011
Note 17. Responsible Persons
In accordance with the Ministerial Directions issued by the Minister for Finance under the Financial Management Act 1994 , the
following disclosures are made regarding responsible persons for the reporting period.
Names
The persons who held positions of Ministers and Accountable Officers in the Institute are as follows:
Attorney-General
The Hon. Rob Hulls, MP
The Hon. Robert Clark, MP
Council Members of the Institute
Chairperson of the Victorian Institute of The Honourable John Coldrey QC
Forensic Medicine and Nominee of the AttorneyGeneral
Director of the Victorian Institute of Forensic
Medicine
During the year the following people held the
position of Acting Director
Nominee of the Attorney-General
Nominee of the Chief Commissioner of Police
Nominee of the Chief Justice
Nominee of the Council of Monash University
Nominee of the Minister for Health
Nominee of the Minister for Women
Nominee of the Minister of Community Services
Nominee of the Minister of Police
Nominee of the University of Melbourne
State Coroner
Prof. Stephen Cordner
A/Prof. David Ranson
Dr Noel Woodford
Prof. Robert Conyers
Mr Luke Corneilius
Judge Meryl Sexton
Prof. Steven Wesselingh
Mr Peter Allen (awaiting reappointment)
Ms Felicity Broughton
Ms Mary McKinnon
Mr Neil Robertson
Prof. James Angus
Judge Jennifer Coate
1 July 2010 to 1 December 2010
2 December 2010 to 30 June 2011
1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011
1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011
1 June 2010 to 30 November 2010
1 December 2010 to 12 June 2011
1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011
1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011
1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011
1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011
1 July 2010 to 21 September 2010
1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011
1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011
1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011
1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011
1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011
Remuneration
Remuneration received or receivable by the Accountable Officer in connection with the management of the Institute during the
reporting period was in the range:
$410,000 to $420,000 ($350,000 to $360,000 in 2009/10).
Amounts relating to Ministers are reported in the financial report of the Department of Premier and Cabinet.
Related party transactions
Prof. Stephen Cordner who is Director of the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (the Institute) is employed by Monash
University.
During the financial year, the Institute and Monash University conducted business transactions at arms length and at normal
commercial terms.
Other transactions
Other related transactions and loans requiring disclosure under the Directions of the Minister for Finance have been considered
and there are no matters to report.
130
30 June 2011
Note 18. Remuneration of executives
The number of executive officers, other than the Accountable Officer, and their total remuneration during the reporting
period are shown in the first two columns in the table below in their relevant income bands. The base remuneration of
executive officers is shown in the third and fourth columns. Base remuneration is exclusive of bonus payments, longservice leave payments, redundancy payments and retirement benefits.
Income Band
Total Remuneration
2011
2010
No.
No.
Base Remuneration
2011
2010
No.
No.
$160,000 to $169,999
$170,000 to $179,999
$180,000 to $189,999
$190,000 to $199,999
$200,000 to $209,999
2
1
1
-
1
1
-
1
1
-
Total numbers
2
2
2
2
Total amount
$407,203
$380,166
$365,790
$341,810
131
30 June 2011
Note 19. Remuneration of auditors
2011
$
Victorian Auditor-General's Office
Audit or review of the financial statements
2010
$
27,500
27,000
27,500
27,000
132
30 June 2011
Note 20. Transfer to accumulated surplus - on revaluation of assets
2011
$
Revaluation of buildings
Reverse accumulated depreciation on buildings upon revaluation
1,879,261
554,601
2,433,862
2010
$
-
133
30 June 2011
Note 21. Glossary of terms and style conventions
Actuarial gains or losses on superannuation defined benefit plans
Actuarial gains or losses reflect movements in the superannuation liability resulting from differences between the assumptions
used to calculate the superannuation expense from transactions and actual experience.
Amortisation
Amortisation is the expense which results from the consumption, extraction or use over time of a non-produced physical or
intangible asset. This expense is classified as an other economic flow.
Associates
Associates are all entities over which an entity has significant influence but not control, generally accompanying a shareholding
and voting rights of between 20 per cent and 50 per cent.
Borrowings
Borrowings refers to interest-bearing liabilities mainly raised from public borrowings raised through the Treasury Corporation of
Victoria, finance leases and other interest-bearing arrangements. Borrowings also include non-interest-bearing advances from
government that is acquired for policy purposes.
Comprehensive result
The net result of all items of income and expense recognised for the period. It is the aggregate of operating result and other
non-owner movements in equity.
Capital asset charge
The capital asset charge represents the opportunity cost of capital invested in the non‑current physical assets used in the
provision of outputs.
Commitments
Commitments include those operating, capital and other outsourcing commitments arising from non‑cancellable contractual or
statutory sources.
Current grants
Amounts payable or receivable for current purposes for which no economic benefits of equal value are receivable or payable in
return.
Depreciation
Depreciation is an expense that arises from the consumption through wear or time of a produced physical or intangible asset.
This expense is classified as a ‘transaction’ and so reduces the ‘net result from transaction’.
Effective interest method
The effective interest method is used to calculate the amortised cost of a financial asset and of allocating interest income over
the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts through the
expected life of the financial instrument, or, where appropriate, a shorter period to the net carrying amount of the financial asset
or financial liability.
Employee benefits expenses
Employee benefits expenses include all costs related to employment including wages and salaries, fringe benefits tax, leave
entitlements, redundancy payments, defined benefits superannuation plans, and defined contribution superannuation plans.
Financial asset
A financial asset is any asset that is:
(a) cash;
(b) an equity instrument of another equity;
(c) a contractual or statutory right;
●
to receive cash or another financial asset from another entity; or
●
to exchange financial assets or financial liabilities with another entity under conditions that are potentially favourable to
the entity; or
134
30 June 2011
(d) a contract that will or may be settled in the entity's own equity instruments and is:
●
a non-derivative for which the entity is or may be obliged to receive a variable number of the entity's own equity
instruments; or
●
a derivative that will or may be settled other than by the exchange of a fixed amount of cash or another financial asset
for a fixed number of the entity's own equity instruments.
Financial instrument
A financial instrument is any contract that gives rise to a financial asset of one entity and a financial liability or equity instrument
of another entity. Financial assets or liabilities that are not contractual (such as statutory receivables or payables that arise as a
result of statutory requirements imposed by governments) are not financial instruments.
Financial liability
A financial liability is any liability that is:
(a) a contractual obligation:
(i) to deliver cash or another financial asset to another entity; or
(ii) to exchange financial assets or financial liabilities with another entity under conditions that are potentially unfavourable
to the entity; or
(b) a contract that will or may be settled in the entity’s own equity instruments and is:
(i) a non-derivative for which the entity is or may be obliged to deliver a variable number of the entity’s own equity
instruments; or
(ii) a derivative that will or may be settled other than by the exchange of a fixed amount of cash or another financial asset
for a fixed number of the entity’s own equity instruments. For this purpose the entity’s own equity instruments do not include
instruments that are themselves contracts for the future receipt or delivery of the entity’s own equity instruments.
Financial statements
Depending on the context of the sentence where the term ‘financial statements’ is used, it may include only the main financial
statements (i.e. comprehensive operating statement, balance sheet, cash flow statements, and statement of changes in
equity); or it may also be used to replace the old term ‘financial report’ under the revised AASB 101 (September 2007), which
means it may include the main financial statements and the notes.
Grants and other transfers
Transactions in which one unit provides goods, services, assets (or extinguishes a liability) or labour to another unit without
receiving approximately equal value in return. Grants can either be operating or capital in nature.
While grants to governments may result in the provision of some goods or services to the transferor, they do not give the
transferor a claim to receive directly benefits of approximately equal value. For this reason, grants are referred to by the
AASB as involuntary transfers and are termed non‑reciprocal transfers. Receipt and sacrifice of approximately equal value
may occur, but only by coincidence. For example, governments are not obliged to provide commensurate benefits, in the form
of goods or services, to particular taxpayers in return for their taxes.
Grants can be paid as general purpose grants which refer to grants that are not subject to conditions regarding their use.
Alternatively, they may be paid as specific purpose grants which are paid for a particular purpose and/or have conditions
attached regarding their use.
Grants for on-passing
All grants paid to one institutional sector (e.g. a State general government) to be passed on to another institutional sector (e.g.
local government or a private non‑profit institution).
Intangible assets
Intangible assets represent identifiable non‑monetary assets without physical substance.
Interest expense
Costs incurred in connection with the borrowing of funds Interest expenses include interest on bank overdrafts and short‑term
and long‑term borrowings, amortisation of discounts or premiums relating to borrowings, interest component of finance leases
repayments, and the increase in financial liabilities and non‑employee provisions due to the unwinding of discounts to reflect
the passage of time.
Interest income
Interest income includes unwinding over time of discounts on financial assets and interest received on bank term deposits and
other investments.
135
30 June 2011
Joint ventures
Joint ventures are contractual arrangements between the Department and one or more other parties to undertake an economic
activity that is subject to joint control. Joint control only exists when the strategic financial and operating decisions relating to
the activity require the unanimous consent of the parties sharing control (the venturers).
Net acquisition of non-financial assets (from transactions)
Purchases (and other acquisitions) of non‑financial assets less sales (or disposals) of non‑financial assets less depreciation
plus changes in inventories and other movements in non‑financial assets. It includes only those increases or decreases in
non‑financial assets resulting from transactions and therefore excludes write‑offs, impairment write‑downs and revaluations.
Net result
Net result is a measure of financial performance of the operations for the period. It is the net result of items of income, gains
and expenses (including losses) recognised for the period, excluding those that are classified as 'other non‑owner changes in
equity'.
Net result from transaction/net operating balance
Net result from transactions or net operating balance is a key fiscal aggregate and is income from transactions minus
expenses from transactions. It is a summary measure of the ongoing sustainability of operations. It excludes gains and losses
resulting from changes in price levels and other changes in the volume of assets. It is the component of the change in net
worth that is due to transactions and can be attributed directly to government policies.
Net worth
Assets less liabilities, which is an economic measure of wealth
Non-financial assets
Non‑financial assets are all assets that are not ‘financial assets’. It includes inventories, land buildings, infrastructure and plant
and equipment.
Non-profit institution
A legal or social entity that is created for the purpose of producing or distributing goods and services but is not permitted to be
a source of income, profit or other financial gain for the units that establish, control or finance it.
Other economic flows
Other economic flows are changes in the volume or value of an asset or liability that do not result from transactions. It includes:
●
gains and losses from disposals, revaluations and impairments of non‑current physical and intangible assets;
●
actuarial gains and losses arising from defined benefit superannuation plans;
●
fair value changes of financial instruments; and
In simple terms, other economic flows are changes arising from market re ‑measurements.
Payables
Includes short and long term trade debt and accounts payable, grants, taxes and interest payable.
Receivables
Includes amounts owing from government through appropriation receivable, short and long term trade credit and accounts
receivable, accrued investment income, grants, taxes and interest receivable.
Sales of goods and services
Refers to income from the direct provision of goods and services and includes fees and charges for services rendered, sales of
goods and services, fees from regulatory services and work done as an agent for private enterprises. It also includes rental
income under operating leases and on produced assets such as buildings and entertainment, but excludes rent income from
the use of non‑produced assets such as land. User charges includes sale of goods and services income.
Supplies and services generally represent cost of goods sold and the day‑to‑day running costs, including maintenance costs,
incurred in the normal operations of the Institute.
136
30 June 2011
Transactions
Transactions are those economic flows that are considered to arise as a result of policy decisions, usually an interaction
between two entities by mutual agreement. They also include flows within an entity such as depreciation where the owner is
simultaneously acting as the owner of the depreciating asset and as the consumer of the service provided by the asset.
Taxation is regarded as mutually agreed interactions between the government and taxpayers. Transactions can be in kind (e.g.
assets provided/given free of charge or for nominal consideration) or where the final consideration is cash. In simple terms,
transactions arise from the policy decisions of the government.
137
138
139
Disclosure index
Disclosure index
The Annual report of the Institute is prepared in accordance with all relevant Victorian legislation.
This index has been prepared to facilitate identification of the Institute's compliance with statutory
disclosure requirements.
Legislation
Requirement
Ministerial Directions
Report of Operations - FRD Guidance
Charter and purpose
FRD 22B
FRD 22B
FRD 22B
Manner of establishment and the relevant Ministers
Objectives, functions, powers and duties
Nature and range of services provided
Management and structure
FRD 22B
Organisational structure
Financial and other information
FRD 8B
Budget portfolio outcomes
FRD 10
Disclosure index
FRD 12A
Disclosure of major contracts
FRD 15B
Executive officer disclosures
FRD 22B, SD 4.2(k)
Operational and budgetary objectives and performance against
objectives
FRD 22B
Employment and conduct principles
FRD 22B
Occupational health and safety policy
FRD 22B
Summary of the financial results for the year
FRD 22B
Significant changes in financial position during the year
FRD 22B
Major changes or factors affecting performance
FRD 22B
Subsequent events
FRD 22B
Application and operation of Freedom of Information Act 1982
FRD 22B
Compliance with building and maintenance provisions of Building
Act 1993
FRD 22B
Statement on National Competition Policy
FRD 22B
Application and operation of the Whistleblowers Protection Act
2001
FRD 22B
Details of consultancies over $100,000
FRD 22B
Details of consultancies under $100,000
FRD 22B
Statement of availability of other information
FRD 24C
Reporting of office-based environmental impacts
FRD 25
Victorian Industry Participation Policy disclosures
FRD 29
Workforce data disclosures
SD 4.5.5
Risk management compliance requirements
SD 4.2(g)
General information requirements
SD 4.2(j)
Sign-off requirements
Financial statements
Financial statements required under Part 7 of the FMA
SD 4.2(a)
SD 4.2(b)
Operating statement
SD 4.2(b)
Balance sheet
SD 4.2(b)
Cash flow statement
Other requirements under Standing Directions 4.2
SD 4.2(a)
Compliance with Australian accounting standards and other
authoritative pronouncements
SD 4.2(a)
Statement of compliance
SD 4.2(d)
Rounding of amounts
SD 4.2(c)
Accountable officer's declaration
140
Disclosure index
Disclosure index
Other disclosures as required by FRD's in notes to the financial statements
FRD 9A
Departmental disclosure of administered assets and liabilities
FRD 11
Disclosure of ex-gratia payments
FRD 13
Disclosure of parliamentary appropriations
FRD 21A
Responsible person and executive officer disclosures
FRD 102
Inventories
FRD 103D
Non-current physical assets
FRD 104
Foreign currency
FRD 106
Impairment of assets
FRD 109
Intangible assets
FRD 107
Investment properties
FRD 110
Cash flow statements
FRD 112A
Defined benefit superannuation obligations
FRD 113
Investments in subsidiaries, jointly controlled entities and
associates
FRD 114A
Financial instruments - General government entities and public
non-financial corporations
FRD 119
Contributions by owners
Legislation
Freedom of Information Act 1982
Building Act 1983
Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001
Victorian Industry Participation Policy Act 2003
Financial Management Act 1994
Multicultural Victoria Act 2004
VIFM Annual Report Team
John Lloyd Fillingham
Peter Ford
Andrea Hince
Leanna La Combre
Bryce Marshall
Lauren Murton
Vicky Winship
Deb Withers
Linda Cerkvenik
Outsource Design
144
57–83 Kavanagh Street
Southbank 3006
Tel: +61 3 9684 4444
Fax +61 3 9682 7353
www.vifm.org

AR-2010-2011 - Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine

Transcription

Similar documents

Evidence Technology Magazine – May, 2010

The human skeleton

Dr. Tom Vendetti New Maui Mental Health Center Chief

Alex Wiedenhoeft - FLA 2016

Scientific Evidence in Criminal Prosecutions

Digital Camcorder Forensics - Conferences in Research and

The Print - Southern California Association of Fingerprint Officers

Illinois State Police

Forensic and Investigative Accounting

during - Cedar Crest College