Award Modernisation - Industrial Commission addresses many industry concerns
“Today’s decision by a Full Bench of the Australian Industrial Relations Commission has addressed many concerns pursued by the Australian Industry Group about the draft modern awards released in September,” Ai Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Friday 19 December 2008
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Keeping strong immigration program essential in tough economic times
“The announcement today by the Minister for Immigration, Senator Chris Evans, that the Government would maintain existing permanent skilled migration levels recognises the important contribution the program makes to our economy,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Wednesday 17 December 2008
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Climate Change White Paper a positive compromise but a stretch nonetheless
“The White Paper released today proposes an emissions reduction scheme that is a positive compromise but a stretch nonetheless,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Monday 15 December 2008
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Spending on the right things at the right time
"The Federal Government's $4.7 billion National Building Package is spending on the right things at the right time," Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Friday 12 December 2008
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Queensland Major Economic Statement disappointing for industry
"The Queensland Government’s initiatives announced today as part of the Major Economic Statement offer little respite for industry from current economic conditions,” said Ai Group Queensland Director, Chris Rodwell.
Tuesday 09 December 2008
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Ai Group Report: Companies increasingly turn to existing workers to meet their needs
An Australian Industry Group Report launched in Canberra today by the Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard, has focused on the growing trend for companies to turn to their existing workforces to meet their skilling needs.
Monday 08 December 2008
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Australian PCI®: Construction Downturn Continues
The construction industry contracted further in November, with the Australian Industry Group – Housing Industry Association Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) falling 4.4 points to 32.0, remaining below the key 50.0 points level separating expansion from contraction for a ninth consecutive month.
Friday 05 December 2008
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Ai Group welcomes passage of Immigration Framework Legislation
“Amendments to the Migration Act which passed through Parliament today create the framework for revised regulations which will underpin new protections for temporary skilled visa holders,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Thursday 04 December 2008
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Australian PSI®: Economic Downturn Drives Further Fall in Services Activity
Services sector activity contracted for an eighth consecutive month in November with the Australian Industry Group – Commonwealth Bank Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®) falling 4.3 points to 37.8, remaining below the key 50.0 level separating expansion from contraction.
Wednesday 03 December 2008
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RBA Interest Rate Decision
“Today’s decision by the RBA to cut official interest rates is a vital element in the effort to ward off recession in Australia,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Tuesday 02 December 2008
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Queensland budget deficit appropriate in difficult times
“Ai Group supports the Queensland Government’s intention to take the State budget into deficit, as long as the extra spending is used for investment in areas such as infrastructure and skills,” Ai Group Queensland Director Chris Rodwell said today.
Tuesday 02 December 2008
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Australian PMI®: Manufacturing activity continues to fall
Manufacturing activity fell for a sixth consecutive month in November, with the Australian Industry Group - PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) falling solidly by 7.7 points, to 32.7, (well below the key 50-mark separating expansion from contraction) with all 12 sectors contracting.
Monday 01 December 2008
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Fair Work Bill - by and large a workable compromise
“The Fair Work Bill introduced into Parliament today is by and large a workable compromise being the outcome of extensive and testing negotiations over many months. The Government had to strike a compromise between diametrically opposed positions which intensified the risks of making the wrong decisions,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Tuesday 25 November 2008
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Industry Supports Target 155 Campaign
The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) has called on industry to support the Government’s Target 155 water campaign aimed at reducing water usage in the community.
Monday 24 November 2008
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Don Matthews elected as new Ai Group National President
The Chief Operating Officer for Amcor Australasia, Don Matthews, has been elected as the Australian Industry Group’s (Ai Group) new National President. Mr Matthews was elected to the important national industry role at the organisation’s 135th Annual General Meeting held in Adelaide this week.
Friday 21 November 2008
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Initiatives welcomed but more to do
The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) has welcomed key parts of the Victorian Government’s new industry and manufacturing package.
Thursday 20 November 2008
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Cash under siege: Managing Cash Flow in Troubled Times
The serious cash flow pressures currently being exerted on Australian industry will have major implications for business spending and investment into 2009, according to a new national business survey.
Monday 17 November 2008
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Business leaders call for strong and unified committment from G20 leaders in Washington
The Australian Industry Group has joined (attached) a coalition of major international business organisations in G20 economies in issuing a Joint Statement addressed to leaders at the G20 meeting in Washington. The Statement calls for the forging of a strong and unified commitment to addressing the global economic situation,” Ai Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Saturday 15 November 2008
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Fair Work Bill – Industry needs a productive and balanced workplace relations system
“Today’s comments by the Deputy Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, give further insight into the Government’s plans for changes to the workplace relations system and the signs are reasonably encouraging,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Friday 14 November 2008
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Mini Budget out of sync with the short and long term needs of NSW
“The Mini Budget handed down today by the NSW Government raises taxes and defers investment in order to fund higher recurrent expenditure. This is out of sync with the short and long term needs of the NSW economy which instead requires economic stimulus and investment in infrastructure,” Ai Group NSW Director Mark Goodsell said today.
Tuesday 11 November 2008
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Strong package to drive the future of the automotive industry
The Federal Government’s car plan released today is a strong package that will be welcomed by the industry and will provide much needed support. It creates an opportunity for the industry to reinvent itself in a spirit of mutual obligation,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout said today.
Monday 10 November 2008
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Australian PCI®: Construction decline continues as new business remains weak
The construction industry continued to contract in October with the Australian Industry Group - Housing Industry Association Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) posting a reading of 36.4 in October, to remain below the key 50-points level separating expansion from contraction for the eighth consecutive month.
Friday 07 November 2008
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MYEFO makes for sobering reading
“The Federal Government’s mid year economic report makes for sober reading. The figures of themselves are disappointing and worrying, but it is in what they mean where the real sting lies,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Wednesday 05 November 2008
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Christine Nixon - Strong, courageous and effective leader
“Victorian Police Commissioner, Christine Nixon, has been a strong, courageous and effective leader who will step down from her position next year with the very best wishes of industry,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Wednesday 05 November 2008
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Australian PSI®: Services sector struggles amid global economic and financial market turmoil
Services sector activity slumped further in October with the Australian Industry Group – Commonwealth Bank Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®) falling 2.8 points to 42.1, remaining below the key 50.0 level separating expansion from contraction.
Wednesday 05 November 2008
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Interest rate cut a big step in the right direction
“Industry endorses the decision by the RBA to reduce interest rates by 0.75%. Coupled with the reductions announced over preceding months this means an effective rate reduction of 2% since September this year. Australian business is being deeply affected by the global downturn in economic activity, which looks set to worsen, and today’s decision by the RBA is recognition of that fact,” Mrs Ridout said today.
Tuesday 04 November 2008
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Special Ai Group Survey on Global Economic and Financial Crisis
A special Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) survey on the global economic and financial crisis has identified widespread and growing negative impacts across the economy.
Monday 03 November 2008
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Australian PMI®: Manufacturing records weakest result in 16 years
The Australian Industry Group - PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) fell solidly in October to 40.4, a drop of 6.8 points and representing the lowest recorded level of the series since it commenced in 1992.
Monday 03 November 2008
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Government decision protects independence of Commissioners
“The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) welcomes the Government’s confirmation today that all current members of the Australian Industrial Relations Commission will be offered positions with the new body, Fair Work Australia, when it commences operation.
Friday 31 October 2008
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Release of modelling highlights need for caution in the real world
"The release of the Treasury modelling of the impacts of the Government’s proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) reinforces the importance of achieving a global agreement on climate change,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Thursday 30 October 2008
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Environmental licence fee hike comes at bad time for industry
“The Queensland Government’s ‘polluter pays’ environmental licence fee increase will add a further cost burden to industry in the State, which is already bearing the impact of the global financial crisis and higher energy and commodity prices,” said Ai Group Queensland Director, Chris Rodwell.
Thursday 30 October 2008
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Senate Amendments create potential barrier to delivery of harmonised OH&S Laws
“Ai Group calls on the Senate to reconsider its amendments to the Bill establishing Safe Work Australia in order to help ensure the delivery of a harmonised set of occupational health and safety laws for Australia,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Sunday 26 October 2008
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Better faster Broadband vital to boost competitiveness
An Australian Industry Group / Deloitte CEO Survey has highlighted the critical importance of lifting the performance of Australia’s broadband network. The survey, High Speed to Broadband: Measuring industry demand for a world class service, explores the views of Australian business leaders in this important area of public policy.
Tuesday 21 October 2008
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Opinion Piece on Financial Crisis – as submitted to the Sun Herald
The ongoing meltdown of global financial markets and accompanying credit crisis is taking business by surprise in a year in which oil prices hit unpredictable and historic highs before falling sharply, food price hikes came out of left field and our currency soared towards parity with the $US before plunging by over 30%.
Monday 13 October 2008
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Economic Stimulus Package: Timely, Targeted and Temporary
“The Government’s $10.4 Billion Economic Security package provides timely insurance for the local economy against the risks from the global crisis and equally timely support against the impacts of flat and weakening domestic economic activity. These spending measures will complement the recent interest rate reductions and steps to underwrite confidence in our banking system,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Monday 13 October 2008
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Discussion paper important element in transition from ABCC to Fair Work Australia
The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) has welcomed the release today of a Discussion Paper by the Honourable Murray Wilcox QC, regarding the proposed Building and Construction Division of Fair Work Australia.
Thursday 09 October 2008
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Australia’s World Competitiveness Ranking highlights the importance of focusing on the long term reform agenda
“The World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Competitiveness Index rankings released today are a timely reminder of the need for government and business to focus on the long term reform agenda,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Thursday 09 October 2008
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CPRS - Big Ask: Big Impact
“The Australian Industry Group’s (Ai Group’s) submission on the Government’s Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) supports the proposal put forward in the Green Paper to deploy market forces to identify the least expensive ways to reduce Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions”, Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Tuesday 07 October 2008
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Australian PCI®: Downturn in construction intensifies
The national construction industry registered a marked decline in September, principally led by substantial falls in commercial and apartment building activity. Australian Industry Group – Housing Industry Association Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) posted a reading of 31.8 in September to remain below the key 50-points level separating expansion from contraction for the seventh consecutive month.
Tuesday 07 October 2008
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Ai Group: Interest rate comment
“There is a very strong case for a further cut in official interest rates," Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout, said today.
Monday 06 October 2008
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Bovis Lend Lease Tops Construction List for 2007-08
Bovis Lend Lease topped the list of Australia’s 100 largest commercial construction companies for 2007-08, a move up from fourth place the previous year.
Friday 03 October 2008
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Australian PSI®: Weakness in services persists amid global financial instability
Services sector activity contracted for a sixth successive month in September, although the rate of decline eased for the first time since May. The Australian Industry Group – Commonwealth Bank Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®) rose 5.6 points to 44.9, remaining below the key 50.0 level separating expansion from contraction.
Friday 03 October 2008
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Australian PMI®: Contraction Continues in Manufacturing
The Australian Industry Group - PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) was relatively stable in September, up by 0.2 points to 47.2 and remaining below the key 50.0 level separating expansion from contraction.
Wednesday 01 October 2008
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Garnaut Targets are Very Substantial
“The Final Report of the Garnaut Review released today reiterates the importance of global action if climate change is to be addressed effectively,” Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) Chief Executive Heather Ridout, said today.
Tuesday 30 September 2008
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Productivity Commission shows leadership on Paid Maternity Leave
In delivering its model for paid maternity leave the Productivity Commission has shown leadership on a most important public policy issue,” Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout, said today.
Monday 29 September 2008
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Mortimer Review of Defence Procurement
“The Australian Industry Group Defence Council welcomes the Mortimer Defence Procurement and Sustainment Review as a study that recognises and seeks to address some of the key systemic shortcomings in the current defence procurement process,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Wednesday 24 September 2008
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Mortimer Report charts the course for better coordinated export drive
The broad review of Australia's export policies and programs undertaken by Mr David Mortimer presents potential remedies for some of the key concerns facing export-oriented businesses, Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Monday 22 September 2008
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New workplace relations policy detail welcomed - however important uncertainties remain
“Deputy Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, has today provided important new details on the Government’s workplace relations agenda. While a number of the measures will be welcomed by industry, key concerns remain – particularly concerning the bargaining architecture - which will require further resolution,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout, said today.
Wednesday 17 September 2008
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Australian Industry Group congratulates Malcolm Turnbull on being elected to the Liberal Party leadership
“Ai Group congratulates Malcolm Turnbull on his election to the leadership of the Federal Parliamentary Liberal Party,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Tuesday 16 September 2008
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Award Modernisation Statement - Decisive action now needed by Government to protect small business
“The Federal Government needs to take decisive action to preserve the small business redundancy pay exemption following a statement today by the Australian Industrial Relations Commission (AIRC),” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Friday 12 September 2008
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Industry pivotal to achievement of Toward Q2 ambitions
“Queensland industry is committed to playing a major role in the State’s bid to become the strongest economy in Australia by 2020, as outlined by Premier Anna Bligh in the Toward Q2: Tomorrow’s Queensland blueprint released today,” Ai Group Queensland Director, Chris Rodwell said today.
Tuesday 09 September 2008
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Cutler Review an ambitious set of measures to lift Australia’s innovation effort
“The Cutler Review into Australia’s National Innovation System represents an ambitious set of measures to lift Australia’s innovation effort,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Tuesday 09 September 2008
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Garnaut puts appropriate emphasis on global action.
“The Garnaut Review’s Supplementary Draft Report released today presents formidable arguments for the need for global action if climate change is to be effectively addressed,” Ai Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Friday 05 September 2008
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Australian PCI®: Further fall in construction, but pace of decline moderates
The national construction industry continued to decline in August although the rate of contraction moderated for a third consecutive month, with the Australian Industry Group – Housing Industry Association Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) registering 43.1 and still below the key 50.0 level separating expansion from contraction.
Friday 05 September 2008
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Comment by Heather Ridout, Chief Executive of the Australian Industry Group on the appointment of Dr Megan Clark
"Ai Group welcomes the appointment of Dr Megan Clark as the new Chief Executive of the CSIRO.
Wednesday 03 September 2008
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Australian PSI®: Weak confidence and demand contribute to a further deterioration in services activity
Services sector activity deteriorated further in August, amid soft consumer and business confidence and weaker economic conditions. The Australian Industry Group – Commonwealth Bank Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®) fell 3.5 points to 39.3, well below the key 50 points level separating expansion from contraction.
Wednesday 03 September 2008
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Ai Group supports RBA action on rates
“The RBA’s decision reflects an assessment that there is a need and there is scope, in terms of a better inflationary outlook, to reduce interest rates and Ai Group strongly supports this view.
Wednesday 03 September 2008
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Calls for a gentle start to emissions trading scheme
Ai Group’s National Executive reiterated its support for a market-based approach to reducing Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Tuesday 02 September 2008
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Australian PMI®: Manufacturing completes a quarter of contraction
Manufacturing activity remained below the key 50.0 level separating expansion from contraction in August, with the Australian Industry Group - PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) up a marginal 0.1 points to 47.0.
Monday 01 September 2008
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Industry welcomes Queensland Skills Plan 2008
“The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) welcomes the Queensland Government’s continued investment in developing the state’s skills base – as evident in the release of today’s Queensland Skills Plan 2008.
Friday 29 August 2008
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Ai Group welcomes Australia-ASEAN-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement
“The conclusion of the Free Trade Agreement with ASEAN and New Zealand is a landmark decision in our relations with the region. It marks a substantial liberalisation in our trading relations with the ASEAN economies, which account for 16% of Australia’s total trade, worth $71 billion, making the grouping a larger trading partner than any single country,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout said today.
Friday 29 August 2008
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Future of Electricity Privatisation Bills remains uncertain
“Ai Group calls on all parties to work together on an 11th hour solution for the passage of the NSW Electricity Privatisation Bills. Failure to do so will be frustrating and damaging for the future of the State’s electricity supplies and the image of NSW as a preferred investment destination,” Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) NSW Director, Mark Goodsell said today.
Thursday 28 August 2008
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Skills package a boost to Victoria
The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) has welcomed the new training package announced by the Victorian State Government today as an important boost to shoring up the Victorian skills base.
Tuesday 26 August 2008
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Auditor General’s report a big win for industry
The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) welcomes the green light given today by the Auditor-General to sell NSW’s electricity assets and privatise the industry.
Thursday 21 August 2008
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Ai Group Submission on the National Renewable Energy Target Scheme (RET)
Ai Group welcomes the opportunity to comment on the COAG Working Group on Climate Change and Waters Design Options for the Expanded National Renewable Energy Target Scheme.
Monday 18 August 2008
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Bracks addresses key challenges for Automotive Industry
“The Bracks Review into Australia’s automotive industry seeks to steer a sensible course in shaping the key directions for the industry over the next decade,” Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) Chief Executive, Heather Ridout said today.
Friday 15 August 2008
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Australian PCI®: Construction industry contracts although strong support from engineering construction
The national construction industry contracted for a fifth consecutive month in July, although it had strong support from an increase in engineering construction activity and some encouraging, albeit modest, improvement in commercial construction. The Australian Industry Group – Housing Industry Association Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) registered 41.6, remaining below the critical 50.0 points level separating expansion from contraction.
Thursday 07 August 2008
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Australian PSI®: Services activity slumps further
Services sector activity slumped further in July, with declining levels of consumer and business confidence reflected in weaker household spending and business activity. The Australian Industry Group – Commonwealth Bank Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®) fell 2.6 points to 42.8 in July, below the key 50.0 level separating expansion from contraction.
Tuesday 05 August 2008
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Ai Group comment on RBA Statement
The decision not to reduce the cash rate was a finely balanced one and the Bank signalled a clear bias to a less restrictive stance which will be welcomed by business,Ai Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Tuesday 05 August 2008
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Two senior appointments at Ai Group
I am very pleased to announce two senior appointments to the Australian Industry Group.
Monday 04 August 2008
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Comment from Heather Ridout on Ai Group's Award Modernisation Submission
Ai Group has presented its submission in the award modernisation process to the Australian Industrial Relations Commission.
Monday 04 August 2008
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Cole legacy proven as major positive for construction industry
The latest research into the performance of the building and construction industry highlights the significant improvements in the industry since the Cole Royal Commission in 2004 and the positive role played by the Australian Building and Construction Commissioner (ABCC),†Ai Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Friday 01 August 2008
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Australian PMI®: Manufacturing activity remains soft
Manufacturing activity continued to weaken in July, with the Australian Industry Group - PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) recording a reading of 46.9, little changed from the 47.0 points in June. The index remains below the key 50.0 level separating expansion from contraction.
Friday 01 August 2008
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Support for local manufacturers welcomed
The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) has welcomed the Government’s announcement that it will purchase VLocity trains from local suppliers.
Thursday 31 July 2008
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Collapse of WTO talks bad news for Australian industry and bad news for the future of world trade.
“The collapse of the negotiations to conclude the World Trade Organization’s Doha Development Round is bad news for Australian industry and bad news for the future of world trade,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Wednesday 30 July 2008
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New CEO Survey Highlights Restructuring in Auto Industry
Results from the latest Australian Industry Group-Deloitte National CEO survey highlight an ongoing restructuring of the auto components industry as it responds to the impacts of globalisation in the world’s automotive industry and other factors including the high dollar, rising costs and climate change related issues.
Monday 28 July 2008
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Unions and business in joint pact on skills
Australia’s unions and the nation’s two largest employer bodies will hold an historic meeting today (Tuesday) to forge a shared approach to the skills and training needs of the national economy
Thursday 24 July 2008
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WTO Talks Reach Critical Point
Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout has urged Trade Ministers meeting at the World Trade Organisation next week to push for a breakthrough in the seven-year long Doha Round of multilateral trade negotiations.
Friday 18 July 2008
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Green Paper ticks the right boxes but questions remain to be answered
“The Green Paper on the proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) ticks the right boxes and shows the Government has heard many of the central concerns raised by business,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Wednesday 16 July 2008
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Fair Pay Commission wage rise adds to pressure on business
The wage rise delivered today by the Australian Fair Pay Commission (AFPC) is on the high side of expectations and will add to the pressures already on business,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Tuesday 08 July 2008
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Australian PCI®: Further Reduction in Construction Activity
The national construction industry declined for a fourth consecutive month in June 2008, although the rate of decline was less marked than in the previous month. The Australian Industry Group - Housing Industry Association Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) registered 40.3, to remain below the critical 50.0 points level separating expansion from contraction.
Monday 07 July 2008
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Industry seeks balanced approach on Climate Change
“The Garnaut report released today moves Australia a critical step closer to an Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), but given the times we are in it’s important that we keep to the main game of achieving least cost abatement,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Friday 04 July 2008
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Australian PSI®: Services sector activity falls sharply
Services sector activity slowed further in June, with record petrol prices and high interest rates continuing to stifle consumer and business demand. The Australian Industry Group – Commonwealth Bank Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®) fell 4.3 points to 45.4 in June, below the key 50.0 level separating expansion from contraction.
Thursday 03 July 2008
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Australia needs an effective anti dumping system
“The Government’s decision to have a Productivity Commission review of anti dumping which was announced after today’s COAG meeting, comes at a time when there is extreme pressure on Australian companies competing in the domestic market,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Thursday 03 July 2008
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Australian PMI®: Manufacturing Slowdown Intensifies
The slowdown in manufacturing activity intensified in June, with the Australian Industry Group - PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) falling by 4.2 points to 47.0 down from 51.2 points in May. The index fell below the key 50.0 level separating expansion from contraction. Production, employment and new orders all fell solidly in June while inventory growth remained firm. Supplier deliveries rose marginally.
Tuesday 01 July 2008
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Australia-Chile FTA: Solid foundation for future growth
The successful conclusion of the Australia-Chile FTA will provide a solid foundation on which to expand and accelerate our business and trading activities with Chile,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Tuesday 27 May 2008
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Construction Growth in Engineering and Commercial Construction Highlights Need for Coordination
A new record high is forecast for the total value of construction by the private sector in 2009, according to the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) – Australian Constructors Association (ACA) Construction Outlook survey.
Thursday 22 May 2008
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Ai Group welcomes consultative approach on ABCC transition.
The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) welcomes the announcement that the Hon Murray Wilcox QC, recently retired Judge of the Federal Court, has been appointed by the Government to lead the consultative process with industry.
Thursday 22 May 2008
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Government funded paid maternity leave scheme is socially desirable and economically responsible
Ai Group expressed support for a government-funded paid maternity leave scheme today, at a public hearing before the Productivity Commission.
Tuesday 20 May 2008
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On Task Budget that's Disciplined and Ambitious
“The Rudd Government’s first budget is well and truly on task. It has taken a hard-nosed approach to spending to address inflation and it makes ambitious investments in nation-building,” said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout.
Tuesday 13 May 2008
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Ai Group proposes revitalisation of Australia's innovation effort
"The Australian Industry Group's (Ai Group) submission to the Review of the National Innovation System released today, proposes five major streams of business innovation programs that will strengthen, improve and introduce key innovation initiatives," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout.
Thursday 08 May 2008
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Federal Government needs Budget to do heavy lifting on inflation and to underwrite long-term growth
“The Federal Government’s first Budget marks the moment when the rubber hits the road. The Budget will need to do some heavy lifting on inflation while at the same time putting in place the first investments in the major project of delivering a once in a generation lift in our national capacity”, said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout.
Tuesday 06 May 2008
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Immigration changes should facilitate access to important visa program
“The Federal Government’s decision to implement key recommendations of an inquiry into 457 visas should facilitate access to this important program,” said Ai Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout.
Monday 05 May 2008
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Business expects Budget that will maintain the momentum
The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) has called on the State Government to maintain the momentum to ensure Victoria remains at the forefront of Australian economic management.
Monday 05 May 2008
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Australian PSI®: Services Sector Stalls under Interest Rate Pressure
Growth in services sector activity stalled in April, with the Australian Industry Group – Commonwealth Bank Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®) falling sharply by 7.6 points to 47.3*, below the key 50.0 level indicating that the sector contracted in the month.
Monday 05 May 2008
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Australian PCI®: Construction Industry Continues Decline
The performance of the national construction industry continued to decline in April with the Australian Industry Group – Housing Industry Association Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) registering 42.6*, down 5.1 points on the previous month and below the critical 50.0 points level separating expansion from contraction.
Monday 05 May 2008
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Having trouble finding suitable staff?
Ever considered employing mature aged workers? The Australian Industry Group’s Experience Pays Industry Liaison Officer can help you benefit from recruiting, retraining and retaining older workers.
Thursday 01 May 2008
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Australian PMI®: Manufacturing Growth Moderate in April
Manufacturing experienced subdued growth in activity for the fourth consecutive month in April, with the Australian Industry Group - PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) rising slightly by 0.4 points to 52.7* (remaining above the key 50.0 level separating expansion from contraction).
Thursday 01 May 2008
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Award Modernisation Statement is a Sensible Way Forward
“The Statement on Award Modernisation released by the Australian Industrial Relations Commission (AIRC) is a sensible way forward,” Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) Chief Executive, Heather Ridout said today.
Monday 28 April 2008
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Ai Group-Deloitte National CEO Survey Finds Skill Shortages Holding Back Australia's Innovation Performance
Results from the first Australian Industry Group-Deloitte National CEO survey released today highlight the integral role skills play in lifting innovation and driving business success.
Thursday 24 April 2008
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Tax Review a chance to renew our overworked tax system
“The Australian Industry Group strongly supports the ‘root and branch’ tax review proposal from the 2020 summit. The review should be genuinely wide ranging and cross jurisdictional, and include federal, state and even local taxes,” Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) Chief Executive Heather Ridout, said today.
Tuesday 22 April 2008
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Skills Australia an important step forward to lift Australia’s capability
“The establishment of Skills Australia is an important step forward in lifting Australia’s capability. There are few areas more important to Australia’s economic prospects and few areas more important in supporting the aspirations of individuals. I thus Iook forward to working as a member of the new body,” said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout.
Monday 21 April 2008
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Industry wants Budget to focus on skills and infrastructure
“A recent Ai Group study has added further weight to industry’s calls for the Queensland Government to give greater funding priority to skills and infrastructure in its upcoming Budget,” Ai Group Queensland Director Chris Rodwell said today.
Monday 21 April 2008
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Facing up to Australia's skills challenge: industry sets key priorities to address the skills crisis
The National Skills Policy Collaboration has today released a ten-point plan to meet Australia's skills challenges head on.
The statement by leading employer and union groups calls for significant action, innovative thinking and creative solutions to address Australia's skills crisis.
Wednesday 16 April 2008
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Time to lift our game and set new national targets and ambitions
“A measure of the success of the 2020 Summit will be whether it identifies ways we can lift our game as a nation by setting new national targets and ambitions,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Monday 14 April 2008
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New Governor General: An enlightened appointment
Comment from Heather Ridout, Chief Executive Australian Industry Group, on the appointment of Quentin Bryce as Governor General: What an enlightened and terrific appointment.
Sunday 13 April 2008
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Industry identifies action areas for local government service delivery
"The Australian Industry Group has identified a number of action areas where local governments around the State should focus on improving service delivery to industry," said Ai Group Queensland Director, Chris Rodwell.
Friday 11 April 2008
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Ai Group National Employment Standards Submission
"The National Employment Standards (NES) need careful consideration. Road-testing the Standards through the release of the Exposure Draft is the right move. This approach enables problems to be identified and dealt with before the legislation is introduced into Parliament and well before the operative date of 1 January 2010," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout.
Thursday 10 April 2008
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Unions, business and HREOC: paid maternity leave vital for Australia's economy and working families
HREOC Sex Discrimination Commissioner Elizabeth Broderick, ACTU President Sharan Burrow and Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout have joined forces to call for a national, taxpayer-funded paid maternity leave scheme for all Australian women.
Tuesday 08 April 2008
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Strong, Intellectually Agile and Independent Thinker: Ai Group pays Tribute to the Late John Button
“All of us within the Australian Industry Group and throughout industry are deeply saddened on hearing the news of the death of John Button, who was respected across the industrial divide,” Ai Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today.
Tuesday 08 April 2008
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Australian PCI®: Construction declines as interest rates bite
The performance of the national construction industry deteriorated in March posting its first decline in seven months with the Australian Industry Group – Housing Industry Association Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) registering 48.4 in March, 5.5 points lower than the previous month (below the critical 50.0 points level separating expansion from contraction).
Monday 07 April 2008
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Significant concerns remain about Queensland’s payroll tax changes
“Queensland industry remains concerned about some aspects of the payroll tax changes currently before the Queensland Parliament,” Ai Group Queensland Director Chris Rodwell said today.
Thursday 03 April 2008
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Industry urges rethink over proposed hike in environment license fees
“The Australian Industry Group is calling for a serious rethink of the fee increases proposed as part of the review of Queensland’s Environmental Protection Regulation
Thursday 03 April 2008
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Australian PSI®: Services sector growth steadies in March
Growth in services sector activity steadied in March, with the Australian Industry Group - Commonwealth Bank Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®) rising 0.6 points to 53.8 (The distance from 50 is indicative of the strength of the expansion or contraction).
Thursday 03 April 2008
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Federal Government's Reform Road Map on Skills has potential to seriously tackle skill shortages
"The Federal Government's release of the Skilling Australia for the Future discussion paper and the announcement of the first of the 20,000 places under the Productivity Places Program are very important first steps in the roll-out of the new skills strategy for Australia," Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today
Tuesday 01 April 2008
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Australian PMI®: Manufacturing Activity Still Subdued
Manufacturing activity remained subdued in March with the Australian Industry Group - PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) falling 0.2 points to 51.2 (remaining above the key 50.0 level separating expansion from contraction) following a 2.2 rise in February.
Tuesday 01 April 2008
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Smart State - Smart Government
“The Queensland Government should consider a significant departmental restructure and seek much higher levels of innovation in Government to extend the Smart State strategy to its own internal operations and further improve its support for business,” said Ai Group Queensland Director Chris Rodwell.
Tuesday 26 February 2008
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Business Advisory Group on Workplace Relations
"I am very pleased to serve on the Business Advisory Group announced by the Deputy Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, to assist in shaping the new workplace relations system," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout.
Wednesday 20 February 2008
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National Employment Standards Need Careful Consideration
“The draft ten National Employment Standards released for public comment need careful consideration and road-testing the legislation is the right move,” said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout.
Thursday 14 February 2008
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Workplace Relations Transition Bill - Balanced and Workable
The workplace relations amendments introduced into Federal Parliament today appear to be balanced and workable and were shaped by a very constructive consultation process, said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout.
Tuesday 12 February 2008
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Rate rise sobering news for businesses and households
"The Reserve Bank’s statement today makes sobering reading for businesses and households. The determination expressed by the RBA in its decision to slow the economy suggests rates will continue to rise until inflation is contained. Moreover, the RBA suggests that there may well be some way to go before this point is reached," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout.
Tuesday 05 February 2008
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Government needs to stand firm on water strategy
Tuesday 05 February 2008
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Australian PSI®: Services sector activity moderates amid interest rate concerns
Services sector activity continued to expand in January, albeit at a slower rate, with the Australian Industry Group - Commonwealth Bank Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®) falling 2.0 points to 54.9 (Distance from 50 is indicative of the strength of the expansion).
Tuesday 05 February 2008
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Australian PMI®: Manufacturing Activity Remains Subdued
Friday 01 February 2008
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Australian PMI®: Cautious start to the year for manufacturers
Global market turbulence contributed to a cautious start to the year for manufacturers with the leading market indicator for manufacturing activity, the Australian Industry Group - PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®), falling by 8.4 points in the month to 49.2.
Friday 01 February 2008
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