Archived News for Professionals in State Government - January, 2014
Queensland schools will have to prove they are improving to secure federal funds.
No money for old burners as ban lights up
South Australian businesses operating commercial solariums will be the only ones not compensated by the state government when the ban on sun beds takes place.
Blame passed as smoking rate lights up issues
The Cancer Council says more should be done to reduce smoking rates in Australia’s most addicted state.
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.
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.
New hub keeps icy experts close, but free from cold
A major hub has been opened which will see many of the world’s leading experts working close to Antarctica, basking in the relative comfort of Hobart.
Talks on water changes go ahead with no delay
The Victorian Government is talking to residents about their wishes for the state’s water plan, but many who want a say think the talks should be delayed.
Top end trainees to take charge of their backyards
A new program will take trainees across land and sea to learn how to care for both environments.
Truss interrupts course toward new dam
There may be no federal money for the proposed Needles Gap dam.
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.
Small power firms want price control in ACT
Some of the smaller players in the ACT electricity market want prices adjusted to improve competition.
Surgery switch to save public spill-over
Changes are on the way in the Queensland health system, with a plan that would see private hospitals taking on surgeries that public sites do not have time for.
Tough times may be rewarded with free ride
The Tasmanian government may defer royalty payments from a new iron ore mine in Tarkine region, to ensure future projects are encouraged.
Revoke provokes scorn, calls for reimbursal
To mining companies are looking for half a billion dollars in compensation, after the New South Wales government tore up their licences.
Class for Councillors to better grasp broad roles
A course is on in New South Wales which hopes to breed a generation of better councillors and local government leaders.
Debt calls rain on Premier's head alone
Rapid erosion of South Australia’s economy has fallen squarely on the shoulders of the state’s Premier and Treasurer, which happen to be the same person.
Government puts up $200 to keep marriage happening
Australian newlyweds will receive a $200 voucher for marriage counselling in a Federal Government effort to keep couples together for life.
Mining fast track to skirt traditional talks
Western Australia’s policy to fast-track mine licence approvals means Fortescue Metals will not have to consult with native-title holders in the Pilbara.
Tassie council spots cut, some want the rest gone too
Local governments in Tasmania have trimmed the fat from their own top jobs, the state will now run with 18 fewer councillor positions in this October's local government elections.
Big farm plan expanded, could stick on water concerns
Developers are keen to get underway on a $2 billion agricultural project, but some locals say it cannot be done.