Archived News for Industry Professionals - March, 2014
State and federal coffers have been cracked open to pull out $24.5 million for outback roads.
Academic minds turn to matters of mining
A new centre has been funded to study the effects of one of the world’s most dangerous professions.
Approval changes to close the circle on early efforts
The Queensland Government has released a discussion paper for changes to mining notification requirements, which have already been met with some controversy.
WorkCover review finds NSW workers less covered
An independent review has found a set of WorkCover changes are much more favourable to businesses than their employees.
Authorities want port funds to flow into mainland fixes
Industry bodies for freight and logistics have warned that money from leasing the Port of Melbourne must not be wasted.
Big names drifting away from Abbot Point plan
The Queensland Government remains optimistic about the plan to expand the Abbot Point coal port terminal, despite very few interested private companies remaining.
Efforts to access iron in trans-Tasman seabed
New Zealand firm TransTasman Resources is looking to break open offshore iron sands, seeking permission for marine mining off the southern coast.
Electronic safety net sought soon for NSW
New South Wales will take on repeated suggestions and make it compulsory for all fuel tankers to be fitted with electronic stability control.
Incredible ocean link plan brings unknown risk
Progress appears to have been made on a $40 billion project to open a new link between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Leighton's good run prompts power spill, ASIC look-over
Hochtief has sent a strong message to Leighton; stepping in, removing the company’s CEO and CFO, and replacing them with its own people.
Ok Tedi posts cost of tough times
A long string of troubles has left Papua New Guinea's giant state-owned Ok Tedi gold and copper mine with a dwindling pile of profits.
Road fund re-vamp brings vital fix-ups
Funding to fix the worst of the Northern Territory’s roads will be spent as soon as possible.
Well-known outback rail rolling again
The Spirit of the Outback will once again glide across the scenic and remote western Queensland region, after floodwaters stopped one of the country’s favourite services.
Big swing buries QLD landowner rights bill
A bill allowing farmers and other landowners the right to refuse entry for mining, oil and gas companies has been soundly defeated.
Energy investigators seek new digs
A key site for the future of Australia’s energy systems is looking for some upgrades.
Facebook takes design advice from flat-pack kings
Facebook has unveiled plans for its latest massive data centre in Europe, and it will employ a distinctly Swedish approach to the build.
John Holland group summoned over death on Perth
Several groups surrounding civil construction firm John Holland will face Federal Court over allegations that federal health and safety laws were breached, leading to the death of a rail maintenance worker on the Perth CityLink.
Mine fire quietened while water health risk heats up
After more than month of constant haze, fumes, smoke and flames; the long-burning fire at the Hazelwood open cut mine is now under control, leaving authorities to try to tackle the health risks it has created.
Tiny fine from nasty leak, but Santos says all is well
Gas firm Santos Ltd has been fined after groundwater sampling revealed elevated levels of elements including arsenic, lead, and uranium at a site in New South Wales.
ACCC knocks back NSW bid to lose power
The New South Wales government has hit a significant hitch in its bid to sell its biggest power generator.
Giles wants funds up north to unlock hidden wealth
The chief minister of the Northern Territory has put out the call for private investment in a range of sectors, saying there is untold economic potential for those adventurous enough to try.