Archived News for Industry Professionals - June, 2014
‘Platooning’ trucks could be tested on Australian roads, with a national body indicating it is interested in the benefits of partly-automated transport.
Billions in backlog to bring NSW up to speed
Federal motoring body NRMA has called on the Coalition Government to address a mound of backlogged road projects in NSW.
Breach sweep sees rise in non-compliance
New figures show more trucks were tested and more safety issues uncovered as Operation Austrans continues.
Deadly work rate hits high point
New figures show a spike in mining-related deaths at work, up to the highest rate in over a decade.
Evidence gathered for drones' day in court
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority is looking at legal action against a drone operator who allegedly hit a triathlon runner with an unmanned aircraft in Western Australia.
Melbourne moves to ease transport strain
A range of upgrades have been announced for Melbourne’s road and public transport networks.
New problems from old mines continue to cost millions
Media investigations have shown the ongoing costs of the mining industry in New South Wales, with close to $9 million spent dealing with legacy mine issues in the last five years.
Roadworthiness tops list of big transport issues
The Australian Trucking Association (ATA) has placed roadworthiness front and centre of issues facing the industry, imploring all operators to keep on top of safety checks.
Wheat worries track train fight in WA
The remaining Tier 3 rail lines in Western Australia's grain belt have been closed, and many are waiting to see what effect it will have when tonnes of freight are moved onto the roads.
Claims of hasty steps in disability changes
There has been some concern over the speed with which the Federal Government is changing disability support, with some advocates saying it is storming ahead with almost no consultation.
Power supply claims life, brings call to check ticks
A faulty USB is being blamed for a NSW woman’s death, and has prompted calls to check that even low-power adapters are properly certified.
Smelters want exemption for huge energy use
Twenty-five Coalition lower house MPs have signed a petition asking for the aluminium smelting industry to be exempt from the Renewable Energy Target (RET).
Supply leaks sought by pipe-loving robot
A new robot could save millions of dollars across energy, water and gas pipe networks.
Textiles and sunlight shine in Techstyle Haus
Entrants in the 2014 Solar Decathlon Europe have shown what the energy-conscious house of the future may include.
Building better mental health in walled-off sector
More than a third of all workers at Australian construction sites believe their workplace is not mentally safe.
Green light on skyscrapers as Victoria gets high
The first 100-storey building in the Southern Hemisphere has been approved for the Victorian Government, clearing the way for the 319-metre monolith.
New uranium underway in SA
Australia has added to its uranium repertoire with the opening of the Four Mile mine in South Australia.
Asbestos force to fight against Fluffy's dark legacy
A new ACT Government taskforce will be the key point of contact for Canberrans affected by asbestos insulation.
Coal train claims and others tested for EPA inquiry
A NSW Legislative Assembly will look into accusations that the state’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) covered up the extent of coal dust pollution.
Water worries and gas calls for NSW Nationals
Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane says the NSW government should share gas royalties with landowners, but that he would die before creating a domestic reservation.
Big mining money swap reported, disputed
The mining industry is hugely responsible for economic prosperity in Australia, but a new report says there is a big cost when states choose to dig.