Power station operator condemns strike threat

The operator of the Yallourn power station, Energy Australia, has labelled planned industrial action as reckless and disappointing.

Your say: expats returning home in droves

The 'brain drain in reverse' phenomenon has the potential to provide Australia with a valuable economic opportunity, but are employers recognising the value of international...

Overseas markets rise ahead of US Fed announcement

Wall Street rose overnight, as US investors took a more optimistic view on what the Federal Reserve may announce tomorrow.

BMW prototype tells drivers how fast to drive to make green light

If you're fed up with your stop-start commute, European car giant BMW is working on new technology to speed things up.

New labelling standard identifies eco-friendly toiletries and cosmetics

A new labelling standard that identifies 'green' toiletries and cosmetics is being released today.

Call for forest handout transparency

The Federal Government is under pressure to say how it will hand out Tasmania's $100 million regional development fund.

China launches its first carbon trading scheme

China has launched its first pilot carbon emission trading scheme in the southern city of Shenzhen.

Majority of locally-made Australian television content is news: ABS

A study by the Australian Bureau of Statistics has found almost half of all locally made television content in Australia is news.

China launches carbon trading scheme in bid to reduce emissions in Shenzhen

China, the world's largest carbon emitter, has launched its first carbon trading scheme as it tries to reduce pollution from greenhouse gases.

Mining giant Rio Tinto sacking staff at iron ore operations in WA

The ABC has confirmed that Rio Tinto is sacking more staff at its iron ore operations in Western Australia, as part of attempts to cut expenses globally.

Share market closes down as investors wait for news on US stimulus program

The share market has ended the day moderately down as investors wait for the US Federal Reserve to meet on Wednesday over the future of America's stimulus program.

ACCC forum hears online shopping 'licence' could help stamp out fraud

A consumer fraud forum in Melbourne has been told online shopping licences for people who wish to purchase goods on the internet could be used as a way to stamp out fraud.

Online shopping licence mooted for consumers

A consumer fraud forum in Melbourne has been told online shopping licences for people who wish to purchase goods on the internet could be used as a way to stamp out fraud.

Holden in cost-saving talks with South Australian staff

Carmaker Holden is in discussions with staff and unions about cutting costs at its South Australian plant.

Reserve Bank says might have scope for more rate cuts

The Reserve Bank has signalled it is counting on further falls in the high Australian dollar to help rebalance the economy.

PNG PM on trade mission to Jakarta

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister Peter O'Neill is in Indonesia's capital, Jakarta, for talks on trade and investment between the neighbouring countries.

Australian shares ease in early trade

The Australian share market has shrugged off positive leads from overseas to fall moderately.

Clive Palmer claims The Australian printed information stolen from his office

Mining billionaire and Palmer United Party founder Clive Palmer says The Australian has printed information that was stolen from his Brisbane office.

Thick fog delays Adelaide Airport flights

Thick morning fog across a wide part of Adelaide has delayed arrivals and departures at the airport.

Local content on major resources projects climbs

The State Government says the latest report on local content shows more than 100,000 jobs have been created in the resources sector in two years, belying Opposition claims local...

Overseas markets rise ahead of US stimulus decision

Gains on Wall Street and in Europe ahead of US Federal Reserve's decision on economic stimulus.

ACCC accuses door-to-door seller Titan Marketing of Indigenous rip-off

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has launched Federal Court action against a company it has accused of ripping off people in Indigenous communities,...

Qld Government to push for more Mount Isa kids to get lead level tests

Queensland's chief health officer Jeannette Young says new strategies will be rolled out over coming months to get more children tested for lead levels in Mount Isa in the state's...

Coal conveyor out of action after heavy rain floods Yallourn mine again

The Yallourn open cut mine in Gippsland has been affected by heavy rain.

Court orders Greek broadcaster ERT back on air

A Greek court has ruled that closed-down state broadcaster ERT must reopen immediately, offering the squabbling ruling coalition a way out of a political crisis over the station's...

New York crude oil price hits nine-month peak as Syria crisis stokes supply fears

The price of New York's main oil benchmark has hit a nine-month peak, as traders worry that the Syria crisis could hit supplies from the crude-rich Middle East, analysts say.

Indonesian MPs seal fuel price hike

Indonesia's parliament paves the way for fuel price hike after promising compensation for poor.

Contractor says 'over optimistic' mining services industry coming down to earth

Western Australian contractor Clough says the mining services industry is ripe for consolidation and it is on the hunt for takeover targets as the heat comes out of the resources boom.

Interest in fixed loans surges as economists urge borrowers to lock in their rates

As interest rates hit their lowest in recent history increasing numbers of borrowers are choosing fixed home loans, and economists say now is the time to lock in.

Tasmanian forestry contractors using loophole to continue work after being paid to leave industry

A Senate inquiry has heard extraordinary allegations that Tasmanian forestry contractors who were paid by the Government to leave the industry are using a legal loophole to continue work.

Sink hole isolates central Qld town

The coastal town of Agnes Water in central Queensland has been isolated by a large sinkhole that has opened up on a flood-damaged road.

Share market boosted by late surge in banking sector

It has been a volatile start to the new trading week, with the market swinging from steep losses early on to solid gains by the session's close.

Sydney road renamed after soccer star Tim Cahill

Socceroos star Tim Cahill has been given a boost ahead of tomorrow night's Soccer World Cup qualifier, with the Premier Barry O'Farrell temporarily renaming the Cahill expressway...

NSW Nationals party opposed to selling poles and wires

The NSW Nationals have declared their opposition to any sell-off of the state's electricity distribution network.

Peter O'Neill urges PNG athletes to win more medals at Pacific Games

PNG's Prime Minister says it's not enough to be hosting the 2015 Pacific Games, his athletes need to win.

Mining magnate Clive Palmer denies reports he is short of cash

Clive Palmer's office has denied the Queensland mining magnate is short of cash, despite a written request for funds from a Chinese business partner being made public.

Government says coal industry vital despite Climate Commission's warnings against fossil fuels

The Federal Government has rejected calls to wind down the coal industry, after a Climate Commission report suggested the majority of the world's coal must be left unburned.

Bradken backs 8 per cent pay rise for Adelaide foundry workers

A union says foundry workers and their employer Bradken have reached an in-principle agreement on pay.

New car sales flat in May

NSW power prices to increase but less than expected

Electricity prices in NSW will rise from next month, but by around half the amount originally proposed.

Macadamia growers 'doing it tough'

The Australian Macadamia Society (AMS) says many Queensland growers are facing their fourth successive year without making a profit.

Supermarkets code nears completion after talks with Coles, Woolworths

Australian Food and Grocery Council will soon release a new code of conduct for supermarkets which includes a dispute resolution process.

Australian share market recovers from early losses

A recovery in banking stocks has helped the Australian share market rebound from a fall during morning trade.

Train breakdown affects commuters

A broken down train at the Perth undergound is affecting commuters on the northern line to Clarkson.

Ford closure highlights car manufacturing industry's struggle for survival

A high dollar, cheap overseas labour and a global market are putting pressure on Australia's manufacturing sector, and the car industry represents the malaise like no other.

Market set for small fall after large gain

The Australian share market is set to start the week down, after Wall Street suffered another fall on Friday.

South Australia to define free-range eggs

Consumer groups think a proposed industry code will make buying free-range eggs less confusing for shoppers.

Energex, Ergon power merger proposal smacks of secret privatisation plan, Qld Opposition says

The Opposition says the State Government failed to mention its plan to merge Queensland's two biggest electricity suppliers in the budget less than two weeks ago.

Xstrata mining emissions causing lead poisoning in Mount Isa children: report

New research says mining emissions are a cause of lead poisoning in children in Mount Isa in north-west Queensland.

Proposed changes to Queensland's electricity sector unveiled

The Queensland Government has unveiled its latest move on electricity prices in a bid to drive down household costs.

NSW Government tells federal ministers that campaigning in schools will not be tolerated

The New South Wales Government has warned federal MPs against breaching rules that prohibit them from using classrooms for political purposes.

Half-a-billion-dollar baby: IVF provider aims for growth

Australian healthcare company Virtus Health has become the world's first in-vitro fertilisation company to be listed on a stock exchange after it got its IPO away this week.

Unions fear for future of Oakajee

Unions say it will be a huge setback for the state's mining workforce if the mothballed Oakajee Port and Rail project is not revived.

Manufacturing job cuts put fashion industry subsidies under spotlight

The value of government subsidies to industry has been called into question in the wake of job cuts at Ford and Holden.

Union says Holden needs 100 extra workers to take redundancy

The future for workers remains unclear, with the union warning Holden will fail to reach its redundancy target.

Federal Labor MP condemns Sattler

The Federal Member for Perth Stephen Smith says q radio shock-jock should have "fallen on his sword" after quizzing the Prime Minister over her partner's sexuality.

US stocks end week in the red ahead of Fed meeting

US stocks ended the week in the red as market speculation boiled over the Federal Reserve's stimulus program ahead of the Fed monetary policy meeting next week.

Miners still optimistic for Oakajee

The Geraldton Iron Ore Alliance says the suspension of the multi-billion dollar Oakajee deep water port project will not immediately affect Mid West miners.

Airlines urged to block whistleblower Snowden from UK flights

The British government has reportedly asked airlines to block the US whistleblower Edward Snowden from boarding flights to the United Kingdom.

New Airbus A350 successfully completes test flight

Airbus's new A350 plane has glided smoothly through its maiden flight, leaving company executives relieved and brimming with confidence for the battle with Boeing that lies ahead.

Myanmar lifts aid block for Kachin rebel territory: UN

The United Nations says it has been allowed to deliver emergency aid to northern Myanmar for the first time in nearly a year.

Share market makes strong gains on Wall Street rally

The share market has had its biggest one-day gain since April on the back of a Wall Street rally overnight.

Qld Government seeks foreign interest in ecotourism

Queensland National Parks Minister Steve Dickson says he wants to see more tourism operators invest in infrastructure at the state's natural attractions.

Oakajee port and rail project suspended

Oakajee Port and Rail has suspended all work on the $6 billion port and rail project in the Mid West. Chief executive John Langoulant (pictured) will step down at the end of the month.

Maintenance changes to keep more submarines in service

Changes will be made to the maintenance cycle for the Navy's Collins-class submarines to keep more in service.

Hoteliers offer reward after three armed hold-ups

A $10,000 reward has been posted by hoteliers over an armed robbery at a hotel in Hobart's northern suburbs.

Seabed mining ban stirs up compensation threat

A mining company says it may take legal action over the Northern Territory Government ban on seabed mining in waters off Groote Eylandt in the Gulf of Carpentaria.

Supplier fined over container deposit laws breach in South Australia

A former beverage supplier has been fined $5,400 by the Environment Resources and Development Court for contravening South Australia's container deposit laws.

Hockey eyes potential for more northern export abattoirs

Federal treasury spokesman Joe Hockey says new abattoirs in northern Australia should be considered to help the region's struggling beef sector.

ACT electricity prices to rise 3.5 per cent

There will be a modest rise in electricity prices for ACT households next financial year.

Shares, dollar jump on strong overseas leads

The Australian share market has surged ahead, with the Australian dollar also up around 1 US cent.

Sugar mill nuts out plan to cut carbon footprint

A sugar mill at Bundaberg in southern Queensland is using macadamia nuts to create hotter and cleaner renewable fuel.

Tourism group urges Qld Government to save $1.5b Rainbow Beach development

The Rainbow Beach Commerce and Tourism Association says a court decision to reject a $1.5 billion beachfront development at Rainbow Beach on Queensland's Cooloola Coast is a major...

Talent pool can back Adelaide live music revival, says thinker-in-residence

Adelaide's thinker-in-residence investigating the live music scene said it would not be hard to kick-start a revival.

Wall St lifts on positive economic data

Wall Street rose sharply overnight, as investors once again welcome positive readings on the US economy.

Indonesian vice-president says action needed on controversial fuel subsidy

Indonesia's Vice President Boediono has admitted the country's $20 billion fuel subsidy program is inefficient.

Rupert Murdoch files for divorce from third wife Wendi Deng

Media mogul Rupert Murdoch has filed for divorce from his third wife, Wendi Deng, after 14 years of marriage.

New bank initiative aims to curb financial abuse of vulnerable people

A new banking initiative being launched today aims to help stamp out financial abuse of vulnerable members of the community.

Australian jobs 'near-shoring' to NZ as companies cut costs

Thousands of Australian jobs are being shipped across the Tasman to New Zealand as firms chase lower wages and less restrictive labour laws.

Plumbing "issues" delay construction at Brighton's transport hub

The latest construction delays at the multi-million dollar Brighton Transport Hub near Hobart have been blamed on a mistake in the installation of water and sewerage infrastructure.

Australian Vaccination Network fights court order to change name

The Australian Vaccination Network, which promotes the link between autism and vaccines, is fighting an order to change its name.

Government touts star rating system for food to fight obesity epidemic

The Government is touting a new five-star food labelling system as the latest tool to help fight the obesity epidemic in Australia.

PNG's Prime Minister calls for talks with Newcrest Mining

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister has called for talks with Newcrest Mining as fallout from the company's asset writedown continues.

Share market continues fall despite better-than-expected job figures

The share market has extended its recent losing streak, finishing down almost the same level it started at this year.

Unemployment rate rises in Qld

Queensland's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 5.8 per cent in May, from an upwardly revised 5.7 per cent in April.

Brisbane tunnel's clean cut delivers shock and ore

The breakthrough of Brisbane's latest traffic tunnel did not go completely to plan this morning.

Suncorp offloads $1.6b loan portfolio

Suncorp expects to take a financial hit by offloading a portfolio of poorly performing loans.

Bunnings to shed jobs in the state's north east

The Bunnings hardware chain is closing a frame and truss plant in Victoria's north east resulting in the loss of 47 jobs.

Australian share market falls

Local shares have coming under pressure from a broad-based sell-off, reflecting weakness on US and European markets overnight.

Labor slams Santos CSG licence renewal

NSW Labor questions why the State Government renewed a coal seam gas licence as toxic leaks were being investigated.

Indonesian president addresses market uncertainty

Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has used a national address to reassure the country after markets took a hit of almost four per cent in one day.

Harvey Norman franchisees taken to court over consumer rights

Two Victorian franchises are among nine Harvey Norman stores being taken to court for misrepresenting consumer rights.

Employment figures surprise with tiny jobs gain

Official figures show unemployment eased slightly to 5.5 per cent, but with almost no new jobs created.

Court dismisses development appeal at Rainbow Shores on Qld's Cooloola Coast

The Planning and Environment Court has quashed plans for a controversial beachfront development at Rainbow Beach on Queensland's Cooloola Coast.

Rinehart mine backs away from foreign worker plan

Rinehart mine boss says 1,700 foreign workers may not be needed for the Roy Hill iron ore project.

Jobless rate tipped to rise

Today's labour force figures are expected to show the unemployment rate crept higher in May, as Australia's economic growth remains sluggish.

Group fears cruise ship terminal threatens popular Gold Coast surfing spot

A popular surfing spot on Queensland's Gold Coast has been added to a list of Australia's most endangered waves.

Bradken foundry workers cut back pay claim

The Australian Workers Union has cut back its wage rise bid for Bradken foundry workers in Adelaide.

Global markets fall on US stimulus concerns

It was an extremely volatile trading session in the United States overnight.

ActewAGL cuts solar buyback price

ActewAGL has cut the rate of return for households that generate solar power by more than half.

Greek unions call strike, government facing rebellion over closure of state broadcaster ERT

ERT closure: Unions, coalition partners and the media unite in Greek to revolt against the government's abrupt shutdown of the state broadcaster.

Julia Gillard and Arnold Schwarzenegger join forces on climate change

Julia Gillard and Arnold Schwarzenegger have written a joint opinion piece to urge global action on climate change.

Australia increases drought assistance to Marshall islands

Australia is increasing emergency drought assistance to the Marshall Islands, in the face of a dire food and water shortage.

Australia's large casual workforce masking real unemployment rate

Economists warn an increase of casual and part-time work means Australia's unemployment rate is higher than we think.

NSW to prosecute coal seam gas operator Santos

The NSW government has decided to prosecute coal seam gas operator Santos for breaches of its production licence in the Pilliga.

Share market falls to near five-month low; dollar recovers most of Tuesday's losses

The share market has fallen to a near five-month low with losses across the board that were the steepest in energy and bank stocks.

Coles to vigorously defend itself over bread claims

Coles says it will defend itself against claims it misled consumers about where and when its bread is baked.

News Limited axes David Fagan as Qld's editorial director

News Limited has announced it is removing David Fagan as Queensland's editorial director.

Seabed mining banned in Groote Eylandt waters

The Northern Territory Government has placed a total ban on seabed mining around Groote Eylandt in the Gulf of Carpentaria.

Uranium industry wants yellowcake red tape cut

The Australian Uranium Association says regulatory reform is needed to strengthen the industry in Australia.

Chinese looking to diversify Australian investments

From American pork producers to Sydney's tallest apartment project, China is heralding a mighty new wave of investments across the globe.

GrainCorp suitor Archer Daniels Midland on charm offensive to secure regulatory approval

US agribusiness giant Archer Daniels Midland is intensifying its campaign to win regulatory approval for its controversial takeover of Australia's GrainCorp.

Aurora sale safe under push for cheaper power, says Premier

Tasmania's Premier Lara Giddings does not believe the sale of state-owned company Aurora Energy will be jeopardised by a push to reduce power prices.

Rockhampton rates to rise as council delivers $1m budget surplus

The Rockhampton council in central Queensland has handed down its budget with a $1 million surplus, but there will be rate rises.

Several sites considered to take proposed Abbot Point coal terminal's dredged spoil

One of the companies involved in the development of the Abbot Point Coal Terminal in north Queensland says several sites are still being considered as the location to dump dredged spoil.

Aquila coal mine to shut in Qld's Bowen Basin

Mining company Anglo American Coal says the decision to close a central Queensland mine was based on low coal price forecasts.

Building industry throws cold water on Toowoomba council's compulsory tanks push

The Master Builders Association (MBA) says the Toowoomba council on southern Queensland's Darling Downs is passing costs onto the building industry by pushing for compulsory water tanks.

Australians more confident about personal finances, negative about economy

The latest consumer confidence survey has found Australians are increasingly positive about the future of their personal finances.

Newcrest defends timing of downgrade

Newcrest denies it withheld information from the market amid a price inquiry by the securities exchange and the corporate watchdog.

Premier challenges dire predictions for building industry

The Premier, Lara Giddings, says the construction industry has entered a growth phase, despite predictions the sector is heading for a big slump.

Poorest nations win intellectual property waiver

The globe's poorest nations have won an eight-year extension of a waiver on intellectual property rules.

Extra flights help set tourism record

The number of visitors to the state has increased to record levels.

Broadcaster rattles 'racist' chain on $2 toilets

An Indigenous broadcaster has used his nationally-syndicated radio program to say the Northern Territory town of Katherine "reeks of racism".

Global markets fall after Bank of Japan decides against expanding stimulus

Global markets fell overnight after the Bank of Japan held off on expanding its economic stimulus program. 

Target confirms 260 jobs to go at head office

Retailer Target has confirmed 260 jobs will be lost at the head office in Geelong following a company restructure.

Business lobby group ramps up pre-election advertising campaign

The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has ramped up its pre-election advertising campaign to highlight the challenges confronting small businesses.

Cash strapped junior miners struggling to survive

Cash strapped junior miners are facing tough conditions with a new report warning hundreds could go under globally before the end of the year.

Bank urged to make way for smaller Gunns creditors

The Tasmanian Greens wants the ANZ bank to forego its claim against debt owed by failed timber giant Gunns.

Shock as debt-laden Greece shuts down public broadcaster

Greece's government has announced the immediate closure of public television and radio broadcaster ERT, in a shock move that affects nearly 2,700 jobs.

Greens say Hunter Valley coal dust report was changed before publication

The New South Wales Greens say they have evidence a recent report from a government-owned corporation on coal train dust in the Hunter Valley was changed before it was published.

Volkswagen confirms recall of Australian cars after power-loss complaints

Volkswagen has confirmed it will recall some of its cars in Australia after a fatal accident in Victoria sparked safety concerns about some models.

Australia's mining supply jobs shaky as boom loses steam

Companies supplying mining equipment and services are flagging lower profits and job cuts as the investment boom loses steam.

Local market closes higher as dollar slides against most major currencies

Solid gains in energy and healthcare stocks has seen the share market close higher after the long weekend.

Lord Mayor hopes awards lift Brisbane's film profile

Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk says the city will reap the benefits from hosting the Asia Pacific Screen Awards.

New airline ratings website launched

A new airline rating website rates carriers in Africa and Indonesia as among the worst performers.

China shows interest in live export industry

The Premier Colin Barnett says the Chinese government expressed a strong interest in importing beef from Western Australia.

Mining sector confidence still low, says NAB business survey

Mining remains the most pessimistic sector of the economy, according to National Australia Bank's leading business survey.

China's Ansteel set to take majority stake in Karara

China's Ansteel is set to take a majority stake in the Karara magnetite iron ore mine in WA's Mid West as part of a restructure of finances with its joint venture partner, Gindalbie...

Traditional owners stand ground on seabed mining

Groote Eylandt traditional owners are asking the Northern Territory Government to ban seabed mining.

Circulation falls and job losses mount

The call for volunteers to exit the West Australian Newspapers group is yet another signal print media is moving onto life support.

Qld Agriculture Minister John McVeigh defends farm finance deal delay

Queensland Agriculture Minister John McVeigh says the Federal Government needs to provide more detail before he will sign up for the new farm finance scheme.

ASX announces $500m share offer

The operator of the Australian share market has announced plans to raise more than $500 million through a share offer.

New home loan figures rise slightly in April

The latest official figures show the number of new home loans around Australia increased slightly in April.

Western Australian Newspapers set to cut 100 jobs through redundancies

Up to 100 jobs are to be cut at West Australian Newspapers through voluntary and potentially forced redundancies.

Unionists protest against potential loss of jobs

Hundreds of unionists have gathered outside Parliament House in Perth to protest against the potential loss of jobs in the gas industry.

Taxi drivers blockade Melbourne Airport over fare allocations

Taxi drivers are blockading the feeder rank at Melbourne Airport preventing cabs from picking up passengers.

Green fears aired over massive Stockland housing project at Caloundra South

The Sunshine Coast Environment Council (SCEC) says it has concerns about federal approval of Australia's biggest master-planned community at Caloundra South in south-east Queensland.

Surfers Paradise traders say they shouldn't foot bill for Drink Safe levy

Businesses in Queensland's Surfers Paradise say they should not have to pay to keep the streets safe at night.

Green groups sound warning over woodchip return

The receiver for failed timber company Gunns believes it is unlikely creditors will recoup any money with the resumption of woodchip sales to Japan.

Cloncurry miner to make workforce 100pc local

A mining company in north-west Queensland says it is planning to convert its workforce to entirely local employees.

Copper theft shuts down three rail services

Three Victorian rail services were shut down after thieves stole copper cables during the night.

BP downplays Cairns foam spill impact into Trinity Inlet

BP says its investigation into a spill at its Cairns depot in far north Queensland in January has found no adverse environmental effects.

Chinese telco Huawei tries to shake off spy image after NBN ban

The Chinese company blocked from working on Australia's National Broadband Network has set its sights on shaking off its image as a stalking horse for Chinese spies.

Code of conduct looms for automotive repairs industry

A proposed code of conduct for the automotive industry would be "weak" and does not go far enough for consumers, say industry representatives.

PNG opens biggest fish processing plant in the region

Papua New Guinea has opened the region's biggest fish processing plant in the industrial city of Lae.

Passengers temporarily stranded in Kalgoorlie

Jetstar says passengers on an international flight to Perth, which was diverted to Kalgoorlie, are still on the ground in the Goldfields but will fly out tonight.

Japanese stocks climb 5 per cent

Tokyo's Nikkei index has climbed by almost 5 per cent after an erratic month of trade.

New figures shed light on declining Falcon sales

New figures highlight the decline in the Falcon’s popularity, which was a major factor in Ford’s decision to end Australian production.

Smelter bill tabled in Parliament

The SA Government will consult with the Port Pirie community about new legislation introduced to Parliament.

Australian dollar at 20-month low on China data

Weak economic data from China sent the Australian dollar below 94 US cents for the first time in 20 months.

Boutique hotel adds to Northbridge facelift

The State Government hopes a new six-storey hotel and restaurant to be built in Northbridge will help rejuvenate and transform the entertainment district.

Australian business climate in 'rigor mortis', says US Business Council boss Andrew Liveris

The head of the powerful US Business Council says Australia's business climate is in "rigor mortis" and must stop being complacent.

Fears of engineering brain drain as infrastructure projects dry up

Australia's engineering industry is undergoing a major contraction, with one insider saying up to 7,000 jobs have been lost in the past six months.

Holocaust survivor and restaurateur Avram Zeleznikow dies aged 89

Avram Zeleznikow, a Holocaust survivor and founder of Melbourne's famous Scheherazade restaurant, has died aged 89.

Temporary ban of synthetic drugs begins in NSW following death of Henry Kwan

Shop owners in New South Wales have been warned to clear their shelves of synthetic drugs or face fines of up to $1.1 million.

Criminal investigation launched into China bus blaze

Authorities have launched a criminal investigation into a bus fire which killed at least 47 people and injured dozens more.

BHP sells off stake in $45 billion Browse gas project

BHP Billiton has signed off on the sale of its stake in the $45 billion Browse gas project in Western Australia.

US job creation grows, fuelling expectations of Fed stimulus reduction

United States employers stepped up hiring in May in a show of economic resilience that suggests the Federal Reserve could begin to scale back the amount of cash it is pumping into...

Whistleblowing tradesman alleges asbestos breaches at NBN roll-out site in Darwin

A Darwin tradesman has blown the whistle on what he says were asbestos handling breaches at a roll-out site for the National Broadband Network.

Share market closes down ahead of release of key economic data

The share market extended this week's falls, ending sharply down and is now back to where it started at the beginning of the year.

Federal Government in 'constructive, frank' talks with Australia's car manufacturers

The Federal Government and car industry chiefs have pledged to continue working together to guarantee the survival of Australia's automotive sector.

Fears over expanding union rights of entry

WA's building industry is predicting increased tension on worksites as a result of Federal Government changes that expand union right of entry.

Crackdown on illegal camping in Broome

The Shire of Broome says it has launched a crackdown on illegal camping because some of the town's most popular beaches are starting to resemble shanty-towns.

$2m tourism upgrade for Hanging Rock

The Federal Government says it is confident new tourism facilities at Hanging Rock in central Victoria will be sensitive to the site and provide the region with an economic boost.

ASIC appeal sees insider trader jailed

A former tax consultant has been sentenced to jail over insider trading committed while he worked at accounting and consulting giant PwC.

Chinese investors developing appetite for Sydney real estate

With one billion serious savers and more than a million millionaires, a new generation of Chinese investors are making their presence felt in the Australian property market.

Volkswagen offers car owners free safety checks

Volkswagen has written an open letter to customers, offering free inspections in response to growing public concern about serious mechanical problems.

Resources stocks lead share slide

The Australian share market is extending its early losses, with the resources sector worst performer.

Nestle, Mars accused of conspiracy to fix prices of leading chocolate bars in Canada

Food giants Nestle and Mars and a network of independent wholesalers have been accused of an alleged criminal conspiracy to fix the prices of leading chocolate bars.

Sparks fly over Territory Day fireworks sale ban

A wholesaler has been banned from selling fireworks for Territory Day this year under new powers granted to the Police Commissioner.

Newcrest to reduce staff in cost cutting drive

Gold mining giant Newcrest is planning to close its Brisbane office and suspend production at its high-cost operations as part of a cost-cutting drive.

Wide ramifications for EPA decisions from trial

On the face of it, a court case against the environmental approval of an abandoned project seems like a silly waste of time and money.

Gold Coast woman in hospital after mistakenly drinking grill cleaner to relieve hiccups

A woman is in hospital after she was mistakenly given a kitchen cleaner to alleviate her hiccups at a restaurant on Queensland's Gold Coast.

Samoa's opposition leader says Chinese demands are 'ridiculous'

Samoan leaders have expressed disbelief over the demands of a Chinese company hoping to invest in the nation.

Construction in decline for three straight years

New figures show Australia's construction sector has been in decline for three full years in a row.

US dollar slides, shares volatile on employment jitters

It was a volatile trading session in New York, but US markets managed to close more than 0.5 per cent higher.

Kmart, Target sign up to safety accord for Bangladesh garment workers

Kmart and Target have become the first Australian retailers to sign up to a safety accord in a bid to improve conditions for Bangladeshi garment workers.

Productivity Commission ready to act over SPC

The Productivity Commission says it is prepared to look at what action can be taken to help protect SPC Ardmona.

WA business confidence falls to record low

Consumer confidence in WA has fallen to a record low.

UN urges Myanmar to address poverty, not just growth

The head of the United Nations Development Programme, Helen Clark, says Myanmar needs to address poverty, not just reach out for international investment.

Target workers waiting for news on job losses after company restructure

Hundreds of workers at Target's head office in Geelong are expected to hear about possible job cuts today.

Car industry emergency talks: Prime Minister Julia Gillard to sit down with industry, unions

Talks are being held in Melbourne today to begin work on a long-term survival plan for the car industry once Ford closes its local manufacturing plants.

Australian food processing company Simplot warns of possible factory closures

One of Australia's major food manufacturing companies is warning that it may shut down two of its vegetable processing factories in New South Wales and Tasmania.

Share market under pressure as Australian dollar hits 33-month low against greenback

The Australian dollar has dropped 1 per cent against the greenback and is expected to fall further putting pressure on the share market.

Trains on new Sydney line to be driverless

The NSW Government announces that trains on Sydney's North West Rail Link will be driverless despite initially ruling out a fully-automated service.

Fairfax to launch website paywall next month

Fairfax Media says it is hoping to replicate the success of its international digital subscription service when it launches a metered paywall in Australia next month.

AGL under scrutiny for possible licence breach

Gas company AGL is facing investigation for a potential breach of an environment protection licence.

Allan Fels says ACCC could force Volkswagen recall amid mounting safety concerns

A former head of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) says the authority could use its recall powers if Volkswagen fails to act on product safety issues.

Bumper crop sows seeds of recovery for lucerne exporters

After three terrible years, Australia's lucerne seed industry is back on track, bringing smiles in SA.

Treasury secretary Martin Parkinson calls for calm over WA recession fears

The Treasury secretary rubbishes claims by commentators that parts of the economy are on the brink of recession.

Conservation group honours 'environmental hero'

The Australian Conservation Foundation says a Northern Territory man it has chosen to honour with an environmental heroism award sacrificed millions of dollars to protect his land.

Business restructure at retailer Target expected to lead to job cuts

Retailer Target is expected to shed a number of jobs as part of a restructure of the business.

Rising household bills prove Qld Government broke promises with budget: Opposition Leader Annastacia Palaszczuk

Queensland Opposition Leader Annastacia Palaszczuk has made her budget reply speech, accusing the State Government of breaking its promise to reduce the cost of living.

Qld Government to open new trade office in Jakarta

The Queensland Government will open a new trade and investment office in Jakarta in Indonesia.

Outlaw bikies to blame for Gold Coast organised crime

Queensland Police Union (QPU) president Ian Leavers says the Gold Coast has a serious organised crime problem and outlaw motorcycle gangs are to blame.

Meat group MLA urged to help Qld's drought-hit graziers

A north-west Queensland grazier has questioned the efforts of Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) to improve conditions for drought-affected producers.

Australian dollar falls against stronger greenback and weak GDP figures

The Australian dollar has fallen more than 1 per cent after yesterday's weaker-than-expected economic growth figures.

Expert says reef tourism hinges on positive UNESCO decision

A central Queensland tourism expert says if international tourists believe the Great Barrier Reef is endangered they will stop visiting.

Outback Qld councils fear dwindling road funding

The Outback Regional Roads Group says road funding drying up for western Queensland councils will put pressure on local workforces.

Ports North pushes ahead with Trinity Inlet dredging in Cairns

Ports North says it will not hold off on plans to dredge Trinity Inlet in Cairns in far north Queensland to allow seagrass levels to recover.

South Australia keen to secure direct China-Adelaide flights

The South Australian Government said it was in discussions with two airlines China Southern and China Eastern to fly direct to Adelaide, as it worked to tap the potential of the...

Greens to lobby Future Fund to stop 'risky investment' in coal companies

The Greens have started a new campaign to push the Future Fund to stop investing in coal companies.

ACTEW spills jobs in management shake-up

Canberra's water authority ACTEW is axing eight positions as part of a major shake-up of its management.

Telstra considering plan to remove asbestos from all pits amid NBN scare

Telstra is considering a long-term plan to completely remove asbestos from all its pits, amid concerns members of the public may have been exposed to the deadly fibres.

Unions launch advertising blitz designed to show what workers could lose under Coalition

The union movement will launch a multi-million-dollar advertising campaign during tonight's State of Origin match which they say is designed to show workers how much they could lose...

Share market sees widespread losses after weak growth figures

The share market has closed at a near five-month low after official figures showed Australia's economic growth has slowed by more than expected.

World Economic Forum opens in Myanmar

Hundreds of world leaders and industry chiefs have gathered in Myanmar for the World Economic Forum on East Asia.

WA's economic contraction start of downward trend

A chief economist says a contraction in WA's economy during the March quarter is just the start of a downward trend as the construction phase ends and production begins.

High vis ban works for one business

The manager of a popular venue in Port Hedland says business has never been better since it banned patrons from wearing high visibility work gear.

Tourism WA's marketing budget slashed

The State Government has slashed Tourism WA's marketing budget by $1 million forcing planned international campaigns to be cut.

Cambodia railway project a disaster for relocated households: report

A report has found that a railway project in Cambodia has significantly impoverished hundreds of people who were forced to relocate outside the capital in late 2011.

Almost 50 workers sacked at Jupiters, Treasury casinos in south-east Qld

The United Voice union says almost 50 workers have been sacked from casinos in Brisbane and the Gold Coast in south-east Queensland.

Energy Minister Mark McArdle says Qld Government won't reduce solar feed-in tariff

Queensland Energy Minister Mark McArdle has confirmed the State Government will not be reducing the solar feed-in tariff.

Canegrowers remain worried about power prices despite Qld Government cap

Queensland sugar lobby group Canegrowers has cautiously welcomed the State Government's decision to cap electricity prices for farmers and irrigators.

Gold Coast health budget increases

Funding for health services has increased in this year's state budget for Queensland's Gold Coast, but little else.

Qld budget get mixed response in Townsville

Community and business leaders in Townsville in north Queensland have given a mixed assessment of this year's state budget.

Exploration push sparks call to boost basin protection

A south-west Queensland mayor says the Great Artesian Basin is a "national treasure" and needs to be protected from the impacts of resource exploration and development.

Qld Govt warned not to change solar feed-in tariff

The Queensland Government is being warned of a voter backlash if it makes changes to the solar feed-in tariff.

Bare bones budget delivers no big surprises for north Qld

The Queensland Government says the Mackay region in the state's north has fared well in yesterday's state budget, despite "trying financial circumstances".

Mining slowdown hits Australia's economic growth

Australia's economic growth slows by more than expected in the first three months of the year amid sharp contractions in the mining states of Western Australia and the NT.

Far north Qld health service gets budget boost

Health has been one of the biggest winners in an otherwise austere Queensland budget for the Cairns region in the state's far north.

Flood-hit port begins exporting sugar backlog

The first commercial sugar export will leave Bundaberg next week, five months after floods extensively damaged the port in the southern Queensland city.

State budget sparks mixed reaction in north-west Qld

Mount Isa MP Rob Katter says there are very few positives in this year's Queensland budget for the state's north-west.

Resources sector shares in Qld budget spend

Central Queensland's resources sectors seems to be one of the biggest winners in the State Government's second budget.

Farmers' group decry Qld budget

The Queensland Farmers Federation (QFF) says there has been nothing "new" handed down to struggling farmers in this year's state budget.

Simplot begins survival talks

The managing director of Simplot says he is confident the Tasmanian Government will help keep its Devonport factory viable.

Most Canberra restaurants breach workplace laws

An audit has found the majority of Canberra restaurants are breaching workplace laws.

150 marine scientists warn of port construction threat to Great Barrier Reef

More than 150 marine scientists have called on the federal and Queensland governments to stop all construction outside major ports along the Great Barrier Reef.

Media companies AAP, Metro Media Publishing cut staff

Another Australian media company has announced it is cutting staff.

US markets slide after jump in consumer, business spending increased volatility

Wall Street snapped its remarkable 20-week Tuesday winning streak after a jump in consumer and business spending increased volatility on the market.

More $100K Qld public servants despite LNP job cuts: report

New figures shows there are more Queensland public servants earning over $100,000 a year than when the Liberal National Party (LNP) Government started its job cuts.

Barnett says Chinese investors discriminated against

The WA Premier Colin Barnett says foreign investment rules discriminate against China and are holding back investment in Australia.

ASIC reveals second instance of accidental mass blocking of legitimate websites

The corporate regulator has revealed a second instance of inadvertently blocking large numbers of websites while trying to shut down access to investment scams.

Grange Resources' move a confidence boost, says minister

A minerals company with extensive interests in Tasmania is to relocate its head office from the rich mining state of West Australia.

Payroll tax concession announced for South Australian small business

Small businesses are to receive a temporary payroll tax concession as part of this year's South Australian budget, which the Premier will unveil on Thursday.

Sydney Airport unveils its draft 20 year 'Master Plan'

Sydney Airport has released the draft version of its 20 year 'Master Plan' which outlines how it will double passenger capacity without any changes to curfews, runways or the flight cap.

Australia sitting on potential shale gas jackpot, but more regulation needed: study

Australian researchers say the country is sitting on potentially huge shale gas deposits, but more environmental assessment and proper regulation are needed to develop the industry.

Big miners' profits slump by half as boom peaks

A new report has found that the profits of the world's biggest miners have slumped by half since 2011 as the mining boom peaks.

Suburban newspapers to be shut down

Seven suburban newspapers in Melbourne's south-east will be shut down, with the loss of 32 jobs.

Asbestos threat from NBN rollout overstated according to public health expert

A public health expert has downplayed fears that work on telecommunication pits could lead to harmful asbestos exposure among nearby residents.