Archived News for Industry Professionals - January, 2014
One of the last hurdles for dredging near the Great Barrier Reef is being approached today, with the main authority in charge of the marine park set to make its decision on the potentially destructive plan.
New role takes bug fight to the farm gate
The industry body representing Australia’s vegetable growers has taken steps to protect its crop
All interest and no action as farm fight looms
The National Farmers’ Federation says it wants consumers to pay the right price, but does not want government to decide what that might be.
Cuts take slice from military pocket money
The Federal Government has found a new place to make cost-saving cuts – reducing the allowances of Defence personnel in the Middle East.
Darwin asks what riders would like for their bikes
An online survey is seeking the views of bicyclists in the Northern Territory, in order to inform the construction of a biking network.
Green digs set the bar as WALGA moves in
The WA Local Government Association has moved into the “greenest of green” new place of business, saying it hopes to set the standard for others to follow.
Local protections prompt false gas claims
Some authorities have accused Australian gas companies of cooking up a domestic gas crisis to pressure governments for more approvals.
More work needed on Newstart renovation
An opposition spokesperson has warned an expanded work-for-the-dole program will probably not fix unemployment.
Minister sees short clock on wages timebomb
A Federal Minister has warned bad things will happen if wage negotiations are not controlled, calling on unions and employers to take it easy.
New deal for better practice when the cows come home
One large cattle station has become the site of the latest major conservation project in the Northern Territory.
Asian super-rail deal approaching
Insiders expect China will soon announce a new high-speed rail connection through Laos, Thailand and Malaysia and Singapore.
Big players say RET can drop, and be met for less
Some major energy providers have made their pitch ahead of the Renewable Energy Target review this year, claiming the figure should now be lowered.
Bus drivers' body wants better health boost
The Queensland Bus Industry Council (QBIC) wants to help the state’s drivers shape-up, launching a plan to improve the health of workers in a high-risk arena.
Engineers welcome dredging technical checks
Engineers Australia has welcomed the Federal Government’s Commission of Inquiry into a large-scale dredging project spill in Queensland.
Grants to help graziers take stock
The New South Wales government has brought back a scheme that paid farmers to improve their safety.
Illegal industrial deals revealed
Reports by multiple Australian media outlets have shown a high level of corruption in construction, with several unions accused of handing lucrative contracts to criminals.
Industry bodies see truck safety wrapped in red tape
The Australian Industry Group has joined the Australian Logistics Council (ALC) in calling for the end of the Road Safety Remuneration Tribunal’s (RSRT).
More big bling from African dig
A massive diamond has been uncovered in southern Africa, measuring slightly less than 100 carats.
Planes touch down for riveting safety check
The United States’ Federal Aviation Administration has ordered inspections of Boeing 767s, to check for a problem that could see pilots to lose control.
Safety worries dissuade true place of nuclear, experts say
With nuclear energy seemingly at its least popular in years, many have begun to neglect the benefits of the power source that never really made it.
Special day for local techno. heroes
Two champions of a renewable energy future have been honoured this Australia Day.