2014-15 Heritage grants program open

Private owners of State heritage places can now apply for heritage grants of up to $100,000 to assist with the cost of urgent conservation work to their properties. Heritage Minister Albert Jacob said a total of $1.265million was available through the Heritage Council’s 2014-15 Heritage Grants Program. “Applications are open and I encourage private owners […]

ACCC report finds no cross-subsidy in Australia Post

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has issued its ninth report assessing cross-subsidy between the services provided by Australia Post. The ACCC uses information provided by Australia Post in accordance with ACCC record-keeping rules to undertake this work. Australia Post has a statutory monopoly over the delivery of standard letters, which weigh less than 250g […]

ACCC reauthorises energy code of practice

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has reauthorised an industry code of practice for face-to-face energy sales conducted by electricity and gas retailers. Energy Assured Limited was formed by energy retailers to develop and manage the code. It applies when energy products are sold through house visits and in other face to face settings such […]

ACCC requires improved dispute resolution in performing rights arrangements

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has reauthorised the Australasian Performing Right Association’s (APRA) arrangements for the acquisition and licensing of performing rights in music, subject to certain conditions. APRA holds the rights for the performance of almost all music in Australia. A large number of businesses, including retail businesses, hospitality venues and broadcasters, must […]

Cutting red tape and fees to improve training

The Australian Government is taking action to cut red tape and eliminate fees imposed on training providers when minor changes are made to training packages. Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane today announced the first in a series of changes to reduce red tape in the vocational education and training (VET) sector. “From July 1, it will […]

Global action to stop sexual violence in conflict

Australia will next week participate in the largest ever global event aimed at stopping sexual violence in conflict. Hosted by UK Foreign Secretary William Hague and Special Envoy of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Angelina Jolie, the Global Summit to End Sexual Violence in Conflict will take place in London from 10-13 June. […]

Trade and Investment Policy Advisory Council inaugural meeting

Minister for Trade and Investment, Andrew Robb, today chaired the first meeting of the Trade and Investment Policy Advisory Council (TIPAC) at Parliament House, Canberra. Mr Robb established the 20-member TIPAC as an important source of advice to advance the Abbott Government’s ambitious trade and investment agenda. At today’s meeting Mr Robb acknowledged the unique […]

Australian Government Actuary’s Report on Strata Title Insurance Prices in North Queensland

The Government is today releasing a report by the Australian Government Actuary into strata title insurance prices in North Queensland. The report found that strata title insurance premium rates in major cities including Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide are much lower than premium rates in North Queensland. According to the Australian Government Actuary, […]