Australian Industry Group - Full RSS Feed http://www.aigroup.com.au/ All Content released by the Australian Industry Group en Wed, 23 May 2012 09:36:46 +1000 Wed, 23 May 2012 09:36:46 +1000 60 Australian FTA with Malaysia http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/home/?javax.portlet.tpst=45d3ff6ff99c77712aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_45d3ff6ff99c77712aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BFTA%2Bwith%2BMalaysia%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMay%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The signing today of the Australian Malaysia FTA is a welcome development for Australian industry across a range of sectors, and promises new and improved export markets at a time when industry here needs all the support it can get," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Innes Willox. Wed, 23 May 2012 09:25:41 +1000 Australian Industry Group 208 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Resource sector to continue to drive construction growth http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DResource%2Bsector%2Bto%2Bcontinue%2Bto%2Bdrive%2Bconstruction%2Bgrowth%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMay%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The resources sector will remain the main driver of growth across the non-residential construction sector for 2012 and 2013 according to the latest Australian Industry Group/Australian Constructors Association Construction Outlook survey. The latest forecast shows construction businesses expect the total value of engineering and commercial construction to expand by 14.7% in 2012 and 13.8% in 2013. This comes on top of growth of 8.2% in 2011. Thu, 17 May 2012 09:32:27 +1000 Australian Industry Group 207 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Dave Oliver and Jeff Lawrence http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DDave%2BOliver%2Band%2BJeff%2BLawrence%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMay%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Australian Industry Group congratulates Dave Oliver on his election unopposed to the position of Secretary of the ACTU. Mr Oliver is a tough and dedicated advocate for his constituency," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Innes Willox. Tue, 15 May 2012 16:20:36 +1000 Australian Industry Group 206 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Industry and Health groups unite for a competitive NSW Workers Compensation Scheme http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DIndustry%2Band%2BHealth%2Bgroups%2Bunite%2Bfor%2Ba%2Bcompetitive%2BNSW%2BWorkers%2BCompensation%2BScheme%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMay%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Leading business, industry and health advocacy groups in NSW have joined forces to support the Parliamentary Inquiry into the NSW Workers Compensation Scheme and to call for reforms which ensure premiums are competitive with other states, provide more effective support for injured workers and encourage a faster return to work. Tue, 15 May 2012 15:03:54 +1000 Australian Industry Group 205 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Comment on dollar falling below parity http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DComment%2Bon%2Bdollar%2Bfalling%2Bbelow%2Bparity%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMay%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The drop in value of the currency is welcome. It has been above $US1.00 since 19 December last year" said Ai Group Chief Executive Innes Willox. Tue, 15 May 2012 12:26:03 +1000 Australian Industry Group 204 at http://www.aigroup.com.au NSW Workcover Inquiry Long Overdue http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DNSW%2BWorkcover%2BInquiry%2BLong%2BOverdue%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FApril%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The NSW Government Inquiry into the NSW Workers Compensation Scheme, which gets underway this week, is welcome and long overdue," said Ai Group NSW Director Mark Goodsell. Mon, 14 May 2012 11:42:56 +1000 Australian Industry Group 203 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Opinion piece by Innes Willox on the Federal Budget and the scrapping of the corporate tax cut - Herald Sun and Daily telegraph 11 May 2012 http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2012/corporate_tax_OP_ED_FINAL.pdf Fri, 11 May 2012 10:09:08 +1000 Australian Industry Group 202 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian Industry Group V ADJ Contracting Full Federal Court Case Commences Tomorrow http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BIndustry%2BGroup%2BV%2BADJ%2BContracting%2BFull%2BFederal%2BCourt%2BCase%2BCommences%2BTomorrow%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMay%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Full Federal Court will tomorrow begin hearing the Australian Industry Group's application for judicial review of the decision of a Full Bench of Fair Work Australia (FWA) in the ADJ Contracting case. The decision, which has given new and expanded powers to unions, will be an important test of 'unlawful terms' and other bargaining provisions of the Fair Work Act," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Innes Willox. Tue, 08 May 2012 09:29:17 +1000 Australian Industry Group 201 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PCI®: Slump in construction continues in April http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPCI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BSlump%2Bin%2Bconstruction%2Bcontinues%2Bin%2BApril%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMay%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Poor demand and subdued workloads - particularly in the apartment building sub-sector - pushed the national construction sector further into the red in April. The latest Australian Industry Group Australian Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) in conjunction with the Housing Industry Association was 1.3 points weaker at 34.9 in April (readings below 50 indicate a contraction in activity with the distance from 50 indicative of the strength of the decrease). Mon, 07 May 2012 09:38:22 +1000 Australian Industry Group 200 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PSI®: Services sector slumps in April http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPSI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BServices%2Bsector%2Bslumps%2Bin%2BApril%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMay%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The services sector recorded its most severe slump in three years during April driven by significant declines in new orders and low sales across the sector. The latest Australian Industry Group/Commonwealth Bank Australian Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®) dropped 7.4 points to 39.6 in the month (readings below 50 represent a contraction in activity with the distance from 50 indicative of the strength of the decrease). Thu, 03 May 2012 09:40:57 +1000 Australian Industry Group 199 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian Industry Group pre-budget statement - Budget risks will need careful management http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BIndustry%2BGroup%2Bpre-budget%2Bstatement%2B-%2BBudget%2Brisks%2Bwill%2Bneed%2Bcareful%2Bmanagement%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMay%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The challenge for the Federal Government is to meet its commitment to deliver a budget surplus in 2012-13 while not undermining growth and longer-term productivity gains particularly in the non-mining trade exposed sectors of the economy," said Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) Chief Executive, Innes Willox. Wed, 02 May 2012 15:23:06 +1000 Australian Industry Group 198 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group Response to Senate Committee Shortage of Engineering and Related Employment Skills http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Education%2520and%2520Training/2012/S_Ai_Group_Response_to_Senate_Committee_Shortage_of_engineering_and_related_employment_skills_February2012.pdf Wed, 02 May 2012 14:41:48 +1000 Australian Industry Group 197 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Review of the 2012-13 Victorian Budget http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Budget/2012/Review_of_the_VIC_2012-13_State_Budget_final.pdf Wed, 02 May 2012 12:56:56 +1000 Australian Industry Group 196 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Reply Submission for the 2011 - 12 Annual Wage Review http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Workplace%2520Relations/2012/Annual_Wage_Review_2012_april2012_Reply_FINAL.PDF Wed, 02 May 2012 12:55:24 +1000 Australian Industry Group 195 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Significant Business Opportunities to be Gained from Stronger Australia-Canada Economic Partnership http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DSignificant%2BBusiness%2BOpportunities%2Bto%2Bbe%2BGained%2Bfrom%2BStronger%2BAustralia-Canada%2BEconomic%2BPartnership%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMay%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) and the Canadian Council of Chief Executives (CCCE) today released a joint statement and two studies that recommend a suite of policy measures to promote increased bilateral trade and investment. Wed, 02 May 2012 09:23:35 +1000 Australian Industry Group 194 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Comment on rates cut http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DComment%2Bon%2Brates%2Bcut%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMay%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Today's rate cut accurately reflects the state of the Australian economy and it is most welcome. It's not a silver bullet but it will help industries on the wrong side of the resources boom. The size of this reduction is particularly important for non-mining trade exposed businesses in industries such as manufacturing and construction who are currently facing very difficult trading conditions," said Ai Group Chief Executive Innes Willox. Tue, 01 May 2012 16:10:49 +1000 Australian Industry Group 193 at http://www.aigroup.com.au A Careful Budget http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DA%2BCareful%2BBudget%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMay%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Victorian Government has delivered a pragmatic Budget during a difficult time," said Ai Group Victorian Director Tim Piper. Tue, 01 May 2012 15:50:08 +1000 Australian Industry Group 192 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PMI®: Sharp fall in manufacturing activity in April rings true http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPMI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BSharp%2Bfall%2Bin%2Bmanufacturing%2Bactivity%2Bin%2BApril%2Brings%2Btrue%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMay%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Manufacturing fell sharply in April according to the latest Australian Industry Group - PwC Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) with the seasonally adjusted index dropping 5.6 points to 43.9 in the month (readings below 50 indicate a contraction in activity with the distance from 50 indicative of the strength of the decrease). Tue, 01 May 2012 09:34:00 +1000 Australian Industry Group 191 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group Submission - VEET Amendments http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Environment%2520and%2520Energy/2012/Ai_Group_submission-VEET_amendments-April_2012-final_signed.pdf Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:01:11 +1000 Australian Industry Group 190 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Comment on Consumer Price Index http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DComment%2Bon%2BConsumer%2BPrice%2BIndex%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FApril%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The CPI data released today confirms that inflation pressures are well contained and should give the Reserve Bank further confidence to reduce interest rates," said Ai Group Chief Executive Designate, Innes Willox. Tue, 24 Apr 2012 15:29:13 +1000 Australian Industry Group 189 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Moves to Reform NSW Workcover Encouraging http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DMoves%2Bto%2BReform%2BNsw%2BWorkcover%2BEncouraging%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FApril%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Today's announcement by the NSW Government to refer the State's workers compensation scheme for review by a Parliamentary Committee is strongly supported by business," said Ai Group NSW Director Mark Goodsell. Mon, 23 Apr 2012 16:29:19 +1000 Australian Industry Group 188 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Support for mature-age employment important http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DSupport%2Bfor%2Bmature-age%2Bemployment%2Bimportant%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FApril%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The expansion of the Federal Government's Corporate Champions project to include wage subsidies for employers who take on mature age employees will help ensure these highly skilled and experienced workers can continue to contribute to the workplace and the national economy," said Ai Group Chief Executive Designate, Innes Willox. Wed, 18 Apr 2012 12:36:52 +1000 Australian Industry Group 187 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group signs Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Brazilian counterpart http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D1%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2Bsigns%2BMemorandum%2Bof%2BUnderstanding%2B%2528MOU%2529%2Bwith%2BBrazilian%2Bcounterpart%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FApril%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Federation of Industries of the State of Sao Paulo (FIESP) - Brazil's largest industry body - in a move that will pave the way for more Australian business engagement with Latin America's largest economy. Wed, 18 Apr 2012 12:36:04 +1000 Australian Industry Group 186 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Response to Beyond Switchover - the future technical evolution of digital terrestrial television in Australia discussion paper http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/General/2012/130412_AiGroup_Final_Submission_Beyond_Switchover.pdf Tue, 17 Apr 2012 10:31:27 +1000 Australian Industry Group 185 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Significant progress on skills reform at COAG welcome http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DSignificant%2Bprogress%2Bon%2Bskills%2Breform%2Bat%2BCOAG%2Bwelcome%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FApril%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Today's COAG meeting reached an important agreement that ramps up the effort in tackling endemic skill shortages and forges overdue reforms to our national training system," said Ai Group Chief Executive Designate Innes Willox. Mon, 16 Apr 2012 09:14:00 +1000 Australian Industry Group 184 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Moves on deregulation welcome by business http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DMoves%2Bon%2Bderegulation%2Bwelcome%2Bby%2Bbusiness%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FApril%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Today's meeting of the Prime Minister’s Business Advisory Forum was the first step to stripping away redundant and duplicate regulation that inhibits Australia's national productivity and flexibility and global competitiveness," said Ai Group Chief Executive Designate, Innes Willox. Thu, 12 Apr 2012 17:16:33 +1000 Australian Industry Group 183 at http://www.aigroup.com.au AIP Changes an Important Step Forward http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAIP%2BChanges%2Ban%2BImportant%2BStep%2BForward%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FApril%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The announcement by the Government that it will implement the recommendations of the Working Group established to strengthen Australian Industry Participation requirements represents an important step forward for domestic industry and will improve the coverage, transparency and effectiveness of Australian Industry Participation arrangements," said Ai Group Chief Executive Designate, Innes Willox. Wed, 11 Apr 2012 14:22:21 +1000 Australian Industry Group 182 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Default Superannuation Funds in Modern Awards http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Workplace%2520Relations/2012/defaultsuperfunds_april2012_final.pdf The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) welcomes the Productivity Commission’s public inquiry into Default Superannuation Funds in Modern Awards. Wed, 11 Apr 2012 10:02:32 +1000 Australian Industry Group 181 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PSI®: Services sector softens in March http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPSI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BServices%2Bsector%2Bsoftens%2Bin%2BMarch%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FApril%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Weak trading conditions kept the services sector in the red in March according to the latest Australian Industry Group/Commonwealth Bank Australian Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®). The monthly index was relatively unchanged, up 0.3 to 47.0 (readings below 50 represent a contraction in activity with the distance from 50 indicative of the strength of the decrease). Wed, 04 Apr 2012 09:39:20 +1000 Australian Industry Group 180 at http://www.aigroup.com.au New Industrial Relations Guidelines - The Strong Stand Taken by The Victorian Government is Very Important http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DNew%2BIndustrial%2BRelations%2BGuidelines%2B-%2BThe%2BStrong%2BStand%2BTaken%2Bby%2BThe%2BVictorian%2BGovernment%2Bis%2BVery%2BImportant%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FApril%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The leadership shown and the strong stand taken by the Victorian Government in today issuing its own industrial relations guidelines for the Victorian construction industry is very important. The Guidelines are set to play a major role in preserving vital workplace relations reforms that have been evaporating by the day," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:13:49 +1000 Australian Industry Group 179 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Joint letter on US skilled migration to Australia http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DJoint%2Bletter%2Bon%2BUS%2Bskilled%2Bmigration%2Bto%2BAustralia%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FApril%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Australian and American business groups have today released a joint statement (attached) supporting measures to assist linking Australian employers with skilled workers in the US to help fill skill shortages in key sectors. This is further to the Government’s announcement in this regard earlier today. Mon, 02 Apr 2012 14:16:25 +1000 Australian Industry Group 178 at http://www.aigroup.com.au The Impact of the Carbon Price on Minimum Wages http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D1%26docName%3DThe%2BImpact%2Bof%2Bthe%2BCarbon%2BPrice%2Bon%2BMinimum%2BWages%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FApril%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Australian Industry Group strongly believes that given the Government's generous compensation arrangements the price impact of the carbon tax should not be used as a basis for an increase in minimum wages over and above what otherwise would have occurred. This is entirely consistent with the Australian Government's position in the Annual Wage Review and any suggestion that there are major differences between the Ai Group and Government positions on this point is a beat-up," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Mon, 02 Apr 2012 14:16:04 +1000 Australian Industry Group 177 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group Lodges Appeal Against Workpac Decision - Meaning of 'Service' Under The Fair Work Act http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D1%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2BLodges%2BAppeal%2BAgainst%2BWorkpac%2BDecision%2B-%2BMeaning%2Bof%2B%2527Service%2527%2BUnder%2BThe%2BFair%2BWork%2BAct%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FApril%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Australian Industry Group has filed an appeal against the decision of Commissioner McDonald of Fair Work Australia in the WorkPac case. The appeal concerns the meaning of 'service' and 'continuous service' under theFair Work Act. This meaning is critical for determining the entitlements of employees in a wide range of day-to-day circumstances," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:53:11 +1000 Australian Industry Group 176 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PMI®: Manufacturing loses ground in March http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPMI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BManufacturing%2Bloses%2Bground%2Bin%2BMarch%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FApril%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The manufacturing sector moved into negative territory in March as the strong Australian dollar and softer demand continued to affect growth in the sector. The latest seasonally adjusted Australian Industry Group - PwC Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) fell 1.8 points to 49.5 in March (readings below 50 indicate a contraction in activity with the distance from 50 indicative of the strength of the decrease). Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:39:05 +1000 Australian Industry Group 175 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout on ABC's Lateline Business discussing company tax cuts, IR, the high dollar and productivity challenges for business http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2012/Transcript-Heather_on_ABC_lateline_business_29_March_2012.pdf Fri, 30 Mar 2012 12:55:59 +1000 Australian Industry Group 174 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout on ABC Radio National breakfast discussing SG wage trade off, carbon tax and Budget http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2012/TRANSCRIPT-heather_on_radio_national_breakfast_29_March.pdf Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:24:09 +1000 Australian Industry Group 173 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Submission on the Exposure Draft - Coastal Trading (Revitalising Australian Shipping) Bill 2012 http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Workplace%2520Relations/2012/Letter_Shipping_Reforms_March%25202012_Final.pdf Mon, 26 Mar 2012 16:06:57 +1000 Australian Industry Group 172 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Submission on Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Amendment http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Workplace%2520Relations/2012/Senate_EOWWA_FINAL.PDF Mon, 26 Mar 2012 16:06:31 +1000 Australian Industry Group 171 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Business congratulates new QLD Premier http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DBusiness%2Bcongratulates%2Bnew%2BQLD%2BPremier%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMarch%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Ai Group congratulates the new Queensland Premier-elect Campbell Newman and his LNP government on their election victory," said Ai Group Queensland Director Matthew Martyn-Jones said. Mon, 26 Mar 2012 09:40:46 +1000 Australian Industry Group 170 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Holden announcement provides much needed confidence boost http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DHolden%2Bannouncement%2Bprovides%2Bmuch%2Bneeded%2Bconfidence%2Bboost%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMarch%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The major investment by Holden, supported with funds from the Australian, Victorian and South Australian governments, is good news and provides much needed certainty for the sector and related industries. It will be welcomed by the broad cross-section of Australian businesses that benefit from the management expertise and workforce skills nurtured in the auto sector," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Designate, Innes Willox. Thu, 22 Mar 2012 14:54:52 +1000 Australian Industry Group 169 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Wages Trade-off Essential now that Superannuation Guarantee Levy Increases Passed by Parliament http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DWages%2BTrade-off%2BEssential%2Bnow%2Bthat%2BSuperannuation%2BGuarantee%2BLevy%2BIncreases%2BPassed%2Bby%2BParliament%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMarch%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Last night the legislation[1] to increase the Superannuation Guarantee Levy from 9% to 12% passed through Parliament. It is vital that the Government immediately introduce amendments to the Fair Work Act requiring Fair Work Australia to take the increased levy into account when determining minimum wage increases," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Tue, 20 Mar 2012 14:11:25 +1000 Australian Industry Group 168 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout on Sky News PM Agenda discusses the company tax rate, mining tax and carbon pricing http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2012/transcript_heather_on_sky_pm_agenda.pdf Thu, 15 Mar 2012 09:20:16 +1000 Australian Industry Group 167 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Industry Applies to Fwa For Changes to Allow all Award Covered Workers to Cash Out Annual Leave http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DIndustry%2BApplies%2Bto%2BFwa%2BFor%2BChanges%2Bto%2BAllow%2Ball%2BAward%2BCovered%2BWorkers%2Bto%2BCash%2BOut%2BAnnual%2BLeave%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMarch%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Australian Industry Group has applied to Fair Work Australia for changes to the Model Award Flexibility Clause - a term of all modern awards - which would allow individual award covered employees to agree with their employers on flexible leave arrangements including the cashing-out of annual leave," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Fri, 09 Mar 2012 10:23:25 +1000 Australian Industry Group 166 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Comment by Ai Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout on ACTU's Jeff Lawrence http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DComment%2Bby%2BAi%2BGroup%2BChief%2BExecutive%2BHeather%2BRidout%2Bon%2BACTU%2527s%2BJeff%2BLawrence%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMarch%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "What has always impressed us about Jeff Lawrence is his wholehearted commitment to the union movement and in particular his commitment to the low paid," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Thu, 08 Mar 2012 09:49:08 +1000 Australian Industry Group 165 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PCI®: Construction down again in February http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPCI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BConstruction%2Bdown%2Bagain%2Bin%2BFebruary%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMarch%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken February marked the 21st consecutive month the national construction industry has contracted according to the latest Australian Industry Group Australian Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) in conjunction with the Housing Industry Association. The seasonally adjusted index was 4.2 points weaker at 35.6 in the month (readings below 50 indicate a contraction in activity). Wed, 07 Mar 2012 09:32:01 +1000 Australian Industry Group 164 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Union Fair Work Review Wish List Must Be Rejected http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DUnion%2BFair%2BWork%2BReview%2BWish%2BList%2BMust%2BBe%2BRejected%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMarch%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Australian Industry Group has today released a supplementary submission to the Fair Work Act Review which responds to the unions' proposed changes to the Act. The unions have called for more restrictions on employers, wider arbitration powers for Fair Work Australia, more rights to strike, and more power in many other areas. It is vital that these claims are rejected," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Tue, 06 Mar 2012 16:10:41 +1000 Australian Industry Group 163 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Prime Minister officially opens new SA branch building - 22 February 2012 http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2012/TRANSCRIPT-PM_opens_SA_building.pdf Mon, 05 Mar 2012 14:47:17 +1000 Australian Industry Group 162 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PSI®: Services sector down in February http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPSI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BServices%2Bsector%2Bdown%2Bin%2BFebruary%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMarch%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The services sector slipped back in February with the latest Australian Industry Group/Commonwealth Bank Australian Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®) dropping 5.3 points to 46.7 in the month (readings below 50 indicate a contraction in activity). Mon, 05 Mar 2012 09:36:41 +1000 Australian Industry Group 161 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PMI®: Manufacturing expansion continues in February http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPMI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BManufacturing%2Bexpansion%2Bcontinues%2Bin%2BFebruary%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FMarch%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Significant increases across the clothing and footwear and transport equipment sub-sectors together with a lift in new orders were leading contributors to another month of expansion in the manufacturing sector, according to the latest Australian Industry Group - PwC Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®). The seasonally adjusted index was 51.3 in February - only 0.3 down on the previous month (readings above 50 indicate an expansion in activity with the distance from 50 indicative of the strength of the increase). Thu, 01 Mar 2012 09:30:58 +1000 Australian Industry Group 160 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ceremonial Sitting of Fair Work Australia to Farewell the retiring President http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DCeremonial%2BSitting%2Bof%2BFair%2BWork%2BAustralia%2Bto%2BFarewell%2Bthe%2Bretiring%2BPresident%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FFebruary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken A submission was made today by Ai Group at the Ceremonial Sitting of Fair Work Australia to farewell retiring President, Justice Giudice (see attached). The submission was made by Stephen Smith, Director National Workplace Relations of Ai Group. It addresses the many achievements of Justice Giudice during his 15 years as President of the Tribunal and the great contribution he has made to Australia. Fri, 24 Feb 2012 13:58:13 +1000 Australian Industry Group 159 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Prime Minister opens new Ai Group SA branch office http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DPrime%2BMinister%2Bopens%2Bnew%2BAi%2BGroup%2BSA%2Bbranch%2Boffice%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FFebruary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The Prime Minister, the Hon Julia Gillard MP, today officially opened the new premises for the Australian Industry Group South Australian office. Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:18:28 +1000 Australian Industry Group 158 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian Industry Group's submission to the Convergence Review’s Interim Report http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/General/2012/130212_AiGroup_Final_Submission_Convergence_Review_Interim_Report.pdf Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:12:10 +1000 Australian Industry Group 156 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Abolition of the ABCC will Increase the Risks of Unlawful Industrial Action and Coercion on Building Sites http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAbolition%2Bff%2Bthe%2BAbcc%2Bwill%2BIncrease%2Bthe%2BRisks%2Bof%2BUnlawful%2BIndustrial%2BAction%2Band%2BCoercion%2Bon%2BBuilding%2BSites%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FFebruary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Today's decision by the House of Representatives to pass the Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment (Transition to Fair Work) Bill brings the abolition of the Australian Building and Construction Commissioner (ABCC) a disappointingly big step closer. The abolition of the ABCC will increase the risk of unlawful industrial action and coercion on building sites. Those who comply with the law have nothing to fear from the ABCC and the existing legislation," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Designate, Innes Willox. Thu, 16 Feb 2012 13:03:36 +1000 Australian Industry Group 155 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Improved Carbon Grants An Opportunity For Manufacturers http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DImproved%2BCarbon%2BGrants%2BAn%2BOpportunity%2BFor%2BManufacturers%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FFebruary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Clean Technology Program launched today is an important opportunity for Australian manufacturers," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Designate, Innes Willox. Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:54:03 +1000 Australian Industry Group 154 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Innes Willox discusses the challenges facing manufacturing on ABC News 24 http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2012/Innes_Willox_discusses_the_challenges_facing_manufacturing_on_ABC_News_24.pdf Thu, 16 Feb 2012 10:07:40 +1000 Australian Industry Group 153 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Innes Willox appointed as Australian Industry Group Chief Executive http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DInnes%2BWillox%2Bappointed%2Bas%2BAustralian%2BIndustry%2BGroup%2BChief%2BExecutive%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FFebruary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The Australian Industry Group National Executive meeting in Canberra today has appointed Innes Willox as the organisation's new Chief Executive. Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:35:52 +1000 Australian Industry Group 152 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout on Radio National talking about High dollar/Alcoa/Manufacturing/RBA http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2012/Fran_Kelly_9_Feb_12.pdf Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:37:56 +1000 Australian Industry Group 151 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PCI®: Construction decline continues as new orders weaken http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPCI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BConstruction%2Bdecline%2Bcontinues%2Bas%2Bnew%2Borders%2Bweaken%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FFebruary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Further drops in activity and new orders saw the national construction industry spend another month in the red according to the latest Australian Industry Group Australian Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®), in conjunction with the Housing Industry Association. The seasonally adjusted index fell by 1.2 points to 39.8 in January, marking the 20th consecutive month that the sector has contracted (readings below 50 indicate a contraction in activity). Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:35:36 +1000 Australian Industry Group 150 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group Comment on release of Seamless National Economy Report http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2BComment%2Bon%2Brelease%2Bof%2BSeamless%2BNational%2BEconomy%2BReport%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FFebruary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Seamless National Economy Report released today (Friday 3 February 2012) outlines some important areas of progress in this critical national project but at the same time it highlights key areas in which we are falling behind," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:16:30 +1000 Australian Industry Group 149 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Focus on defence skills a positive first step http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DFocus%2Bon%2Bdefence%2Bskills%2Ba%2Bpositive%2Bfirst%2Bstep%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FFebruary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Defence Industry Workforce Strategy Discussion Paper released today by the Federal Government is a positive initial step towards mapping the skilling issues within the sector and developing long term solutions for industry stability and growth," said Australian Industry Group Defence Council Executive Director, Innes Willox. Thu, 02 Feb 2012 09:19:30 +1000 Australian Industry Group 148 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Equal Remuneration Decision Creates Huge Risks for Australia's Workplace Relations System http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DEqual%2BRemuneration%2BDecision%2BCreates%2BHuge%2BRisks%2Bfor%2BAustralia%2527s%2BWorkplace%2BRelations%2BSystem%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FFebruary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Today's Equal Remuneration Decision of Fair Work Australia (FWA) creates huge risks for Australia's workplace relations system. The danger is that the decision will lead to a raft of union claims in other industries. This is particularly so given the looseness of the equal remuneration provisions of the Fair Work Act, as applied by the majority of the Full Bench of FWA in this case," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:44:32 +1000 Australian Industry Group 147 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PMI®: Manufacturing holds positive territory in January http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPMI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BManufacturing%2Bholds%2Bpositive%2Bterritory%2Bin%2BJanuary%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FFebruary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Manufacturing activity remained in positive territory in January, according to the latest Australian Industry Group - PwC Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®). The latest seasonally adjusted index expanded slightly in the month, up 1.4 points to 51.6 (readings above 50 indicate an expansion in activity). Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:34:22 +1000 Australian Industry Group 146 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group submission regarding the Road Safety Remuneration (consequential Amendments And Related Provisions) Bill 2011 http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Workplace%2520Relations/2012/Hours_of_Reps_Road_Safety_Remuneration_Bill_final.pdf Tue, 31 Jan 2012 09:23:58 +1000 Australian Industry Group 145 at http://www.aigroup.com.au 'Safe Rates' Legislation not the Answer to Road Safety http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/home/?javax.portlet.tpst=45d3ff6ff99c77712aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_45d3ff6ff99c77712aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3D%2527Safe%2BRates%2527%2BLegislation%2Bnot%2Bthe%2BAnswer%2Bto%2BRoad%2BSafety%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FJanuary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Ai Group strongly believes that a narrow focus on how, and how much, drivers are paid is not an effective way to address road safety," Chief Executive Heather Ridout said today as Ai Group's was finalising its submission on the Federal Government's Road Safety Remuneration Bill. Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:37:34 +1000 Australian Industry Group 144 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout on auto/dollar - '730' - 24 January 2012 http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2012/Heather_on_auto_dollar_730_24_Jan_2012.pdf Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:35:34 +1000 Australian Industry Group 143 at http://www.aigroup.com.au A More Competitive Manufacturing Industry - Management and Workforce Skills and Talent http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Reports/2012/10438_management_and_workforce_skills_and_talent_web.pdf Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:51:53 +1000 Australian Industry Group 142 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group submission regarding the Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment (transition to Fair Work) Bill 2011 http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Workplace%2520Relations/2012/Senate_BCII%2520Amendment%2520Bill_Jan2012_final.pdf Mon, 23 Jan 2012 10:12:51 +1000 Australian Industry Group 141 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Industry Welcomes Productivity Commission Inquiry Into Superannuation Default Funds http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DIndustry%2BWelcomes%2BProductivity%2BCommission%2BInquiry%2BInto%2BSuperannuation%2BDefault%2BFunds%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FJanuary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Today’s announcement of a Productivity Commission Inquiry into superannuation default funds in modern awards is welcome. Default funds play an important role in simplifying superannuation arrangements for employers and employees," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:05:15 +1000 Australian Industry Group 140 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Major Contractors Call On Parliament To Reject Building And Construction Industry Improvement Legislation http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DMajor%2BContractors%2BCall%2BOn%2BParliament%2BTo%2BReject%2BBuilding%2BAnd%2BConstruction%2BIndustry%2BImprovement%2BLegislation%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FJanuary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The Australian Constructors Association (ACA) has called on the Parliament to reject the Government’s proposed regulatory framework for the building industry. Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:31:37 +1000 Australian Industry Group 139 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Government Bill To Abolish The ABCC Should Be Rejected By Parliament http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/home/?javax.portlet.tpst=45d3ff6ff99c77712aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_45d3ff6ff99c77712aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DGovernment%2BBill%2BTo%2BAbolish%2BThe%2BAbcc%2BShould%2BBe%2BRejected%2BBy%2BParliament%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FJanuary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Government's Bill to abolish the Australian Building and Construction Commissioner (ABCC) should be rejected by Parliament. The ABCC is carrying out a vital role and is needed today as much as ever. Those who comply with the law have nothing to fear from the ABCC and the existing legislation," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:14:00 +1000 Australian Industry Group 138 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Fair Work Act Review Discussion Paper Is Useful, As Far As It Goes http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DFair%2BWork%2BAct%2BReview%2BDiscussion%2BPaper%2BIs%2BUseful%252C%2BAs%2BFar%2BAs%2BIt%2BGoes%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FJanuary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Discussion Paper released today for the Fair Work Act Review is useful, as far as it goes. It contains a series of questions which will give some focus to the Review," Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said. Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:34:47 +1000 Australian Industry Group 137 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Business Investment In New Technologies: Improving Business Performance http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DBusiness%2BInvestment%2BIn%2BNew%2BTechnologies%253A%2BImproving%2BBusiness%2BPerformance%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FJanuary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The latest Australian Industry Group/Deloitte National CEO report, Business Investment in New Technologies, examines business investment in new technologies over the past three years. Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:08:02 +1000 Australian Industry Group 136 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group submission - Australian Industry Participation Plan Consultation Paper - December 2011 http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/General/2012/AIPP_Consultation_Paper-Ai_Group_Submission_12_December_2011.pdf Mon, 16 Jan 2012 14:11:59 +1000 Australian Industry Group 135 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group's submission regarding the Fair Work Amendment (Textile, Clothing and Footwear Industry) Bill 2011 http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/General/2012/Submission_FWAmend_TCFOutworkersBill_FINAL.pdf Mon, 16 Jan 2012 14:08:03 +1000 Australian Industry Group 134 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group comment on co-investment in Ford upgrade http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2Bcomment%2Bon%2Bco-investment%2Bin%2BFord%2Bupgrade%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FJanuary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Ai Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said: "The co-investment announced today represents a renewed commitment by Ford, supported by the Commonwealth and Victorian governments, to continue production in Australia. It is an approach that will be warmly welcomed by the many local small and medium-sized businesses in the automotive supply chain. The automotive industry plays a very important role in product and process innovation, workforce and management training in the Australian manufacturing sector. These contributions have broad regional and national benefits both in the Australian manufacturing industry and across the broader economy. Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:18:52 +1000 Australian Industry Group 133 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PMI®: Manufacturing nudged positive territory in December http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPMI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BManufacturing%2Bnudged%2Bpositive%2Bterritory%2Bin%2BDecember%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2012%252FJanuary%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The manufacturing sector nudged positive territory in December with the latest Australian Industry Group – PwC Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) rising by 2.4 points to 50.2 (readings above 50 indicate an expansion in activity). Tue, 03 Jan 2012 10:06:39 +1000 Australian Industry Group 132 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Employers Need Real Outcomes From Fair Work Review to Support Competitiveness in Precarious Economic Times http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DEmployers%2BNeed%2BReal%2BOutcomes%2BFrom%2BFair%2BWork%2BReview%2Bto%2BSupport%2BCompetitiveness%2Bin%2BPrecarious%2BEconomic%2BTimes%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FDecember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken In commenting on the Fair Work Act Review announced today, Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout said: "This is a most important review and employers are looking for real outcomes that will support the competitiveness of their businesses over the next few years in what promise to be volatile and difficult economic times. Indeed, consistent with this challenge, the test of the Review will be the extent to which its outcomes support increased productivity and flexibility, reduce red tape and improve competitiveness," Mrs Ridout said. Tue, 20 Dec 2011 16:28:49 +1000 Australian Industry Group 131 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian Industry Group Applies for Federal Court Review of Fair Work Australia's ADJ Contracting Decision http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BIndustry%2BGroup%2BApplies%2Bfor%2BFederal%2BCourt%2BReview%2Bof%2BFair%2BWork%2BAustralia%2527s%2BADJ%2BContracting%2BDecision%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FDecember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Australian Industry Group has applied to the Federal Court for a judicial review of the Fair Work Australia Full Bench decision in The Australian Industry Group v ADJ Contracting Pty Ltd. The Federal Court proceedings will be an important test of section 194 of the Fair Work Act which deems particular enterprise agreement clauses to be "unlawful terms" said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Fri, 16 Dec 2011 14:59:59 +1000 Australian Industry Group 130 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group Comment on Interstate Reform Partnership between NSW and Victoria http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2BComment%2Bon%2BInterstate%2BReform%2BPartnership%2Bbetween%2BNSW%2Band%2BVictoria%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FDecember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout has welcomed the agreement between the New South Wales and Victorian Governments to work closely in a number of areas of reform including energy efficiency and training. Wed, 14 Dec 2011 15:56:15 +1000 Australian Industry Group 129 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group Comment on Draft Energy White Paper http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2BComment%2Bon%2BDraft%2BEnergy%2BWhite%2BPaper%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FDecember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The draft Energy White Paper released today is a significant piece of work, long anticipated and deserving of close analysis," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Tue, 13 Dec 2011 16:54:44 +1000 Australian Industry Group 128 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout on 774 ABC Melbourne discussing RBA, Cabinet reshuffle and IR issues http://www.aigroup.com.au/link/c5 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 15:05:01 +1000 Australian Industry Group 127 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group Comment on Ministerial Reshuffle http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2BComment%2Bon%2BMinisterial%2BReshuffle%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FDecember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The major Cabinet reshuffle has significant implications for business in key policy areas where Australia's competitiveness and productivity are at stake. It is especially important given the looming critical decisions related to the impact of the multi-speed economy which will have major implications for important sectors of the economy such as manufacturing," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:56:20 +1000 Australian Industry Group 126 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian business remains exposed following Durban meeting http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2Bbusiness%2Bremains%2Bexposed%2Bfollowing%2BDurban%2Bmeeting%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FDecember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "While there was some progress at the Durban climate change conference, Australian industry remains starkly exposed," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout. Mon, 12 Dec 2011 14:14:23 +1000 Australian Industry Group 125 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ministerial Council makes the right call on traffic light labelling http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DMinisterial%2BCouncil%2Bmakes%2Bthe%2Bright%2Bcall%2Bon%2Btraffic%2Blight%2Blabelling%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FDecember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The Australian confectionery industry has welcomed a decision by the Ministerial Food Council today not to pursue traffic light labelling on Australian food products. Mon, 12 Dec 2011 14:13:57 +1000 Australian Industry Group 124 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PCI®: Uneven construction sector remains subdued http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPCI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BUneven%2Bconstruction%2Bsector%2Bremains%2Bsubdued%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FDecember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The Australian Industry Group Australian Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) in conjunction with the Housing Industry Association was 4.9 points stronger in November at 39.6, although it was still well below the 50 point level separating expansion from contraction. November marked the eighteenth straight month the national construction industry index has been in the red. Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:25:38 +1000 Australian Industry Group 123 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Apprenticeship Reforms a Positive Move http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D1%26docName%3DApprenticeship%2BReforms%2Ba%2BPositive%2BMove%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FDecember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Ai Group welcomes the Government's response to the Expert Panel: Apprenticeships for 21 Century Report. The package of reforms supported by the Government are balanced and potentially constitute a major step towards creating a genuinely nationally apprenticeship system," Ai Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout, said today. Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:25:18 +1000 Australian Industry Group 122 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout to move on from Ai Group http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D2%26docName%3DHeather%2BRidout%2Bto%2Bmove%2Bon%2Bfrom%2BAi%2BGroup%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FDecember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout has announced that she would be moving on after 33 years with the organisation and approaching eight years as CEO. Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:24:59 +1000 Australian Industry Group 121 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout comment on RBA appointment http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DHeather%2BRidout%2Bcomment%2Bon%2BRBA%2Bappointment%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FDecember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "It is an honour to be appointed to this most important position. I have an abiding interest and commitment to strong and balanced economic policies and to have the opportunity to serve Australia in this role will be a great privilege," Mrs Ridout said. Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:04:06 +1000 Australian Industry Group 120 at http://www.aigroup.com.au New uniform WHS laws need to be adopted Australia-wide http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DNew%2Buniform%2BWHS%2Blaws%2Bneed%2Bto%2Bbe%2Badopted%2BAustralia-wide%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FDecember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Ai Group calls on political parties and Independents in Tasmania and the Northern Territory, and the remaining States, to complete the picture and give Australian workplaces unified safety laws for the first time in our history," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout. Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:28:53 +1000 Australian Industry Group 119 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Transcript of Q&A session with Heather Ridout at National Press Club http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/Transcript-Heather_at_press_club-Q_%2526_A.pdf Thu, 01 Dec 2011 12:53:41 +1000 Australian Industry Group 118 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Government makes the right call on traffic light labelling http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DGovernment%2Bmakes%2Bthe%2Bright%2Bcall%2Bon%2Btraffic%2Blight%2Blabelling%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FNovember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The Australian confectionery industry has welcomed a decision by the Federal Government not to pursue traffic light labelling on Australian food products. Wed, 30 Nov 2011 16:42:50 +1000 Australian Industry Group 117 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Address by Heather Ridout - Taking charge of our Future - National Press Club Canberra - Wednesday 30 November 2011 http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/National_Press_Club_speech-Heather_Ridout-final.pdf Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:32:21 +1000 Australian Industry Group 116 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Tribute to outgoing FWA President - 29 November 2011 http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/Justice_Giudice_FINAL.pdf Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:19:50 +1000 Australian Industry Group 115 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group submission on review of Victorian Climate Change Act http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Environment%2520and%2520Energy/2011/Ai_Group_submission_on_review_of_Victorian_Climate_Change_Act_signed_final.pdf Tue, 29 Nov 2011 09:52:47 +1000 Australian Industry Group 113 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Proposed Road Safety Remuneration Tribunal is Based on Flawed Logic http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DProposed%2BRoad%2BSafety%2BRemuneration%2BTribunal%2Bis%2BBased%2Bon%2BFlawed%2BLogic%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FNovember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Government's announcement of a new Road Safety Remuneration Tribunal is based on the flawed logic that paying drivers differently and at higher rates of pay will lead to improved safety. Road safety is a critically important issue for employers, employees and the wider community, but the proposed Tribunal is not the answer," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Tue, 22 Nov 2011 12:00:19 +1000 Australian Industry Group 112 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Outcomes from Ai Group National Executive Meeting http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DOutcomes%2Bfrom%2BAi%2BGroup%2BNational%2BExecutive%2BMeeting%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FNovember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The Australian Industry Group National Executive, the organisation's policy making body, met in Sydney this week. It concluded with the organisation's 138th Annual General Meeting. Wed, 16 Nov 2011 15:15:37 +1000 Australian Industry Group 111 at http://www.aigroup.com.au SKILLS SCORECARD SHOWS SOME IMPROVEMENT http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DSKILLS%2BSCORECARD%2BSHOWS%2BSOME%2BIMPROVEMENT%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FNovember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The scorecard on Australia’s performance in school reform and workforce skills, released today by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Reform Council, shows some improvements across the sector. However, this is a critical area for business and much more needs to be done to ensure we have the skilled workforce needed to effectively deal with the challenges of our multispeed economy," said Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Thu, 10 Nov 2011 17:11:46 +1000 Australian Industry Group 110 at http://www.aigroup.com.au WHS transitional arrangements key to the success of the new laws http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DWHS%2Btransitional%2Barrangements%2Bkey%2Bto%2Bthe%2Bsuccess%2Bof%2Bthe%2Bnew%2Blaws%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FNovember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The transition arrangements for business under the new Work Health and Safety (WHS) legislation, announced today by Senator Evans, are a very important part of this harmonisation process and will be key to the success of the new laws in the workplace," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Thu, 10 Nov 2011 16:38:47 +1000 Australian Industry Group 109 at http://www.aigroup.com.au &Opinion piece on passage of carbon price legislation& by Heather Ridout as submitted to the Australian Financial Review http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/Op_ed_Fin_passage_carbon_legislation_Heather_Ridout_Final.pdf Thu, 10 Nov 2011 10:38:53 +1000 Australian Industry Group 108 at http://www.aigroup.com.au High starting price and lack of flexibility in carbon legislation deeply disappointing http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DHigh%2Bstarting%2Bprice%2Band%2Black%2Bof%2Bflexibility%2Bin%2Bcarbon%2Blegislation%2Bdeeply%2Bdisappointing%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FNovember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The passage of the climate change legislation with a high starting price and no flexibility to adjust the price in the initial years is deeply disappointing. This is especially so given the extremely uncertain and weak global economic conditions and the volatility of global carbon prices. It will add significant costs at a time when business can least afford it," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Tue, 08 Nov 2011 15:09:07 +1000 Australian Industry Group 107 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group submission to BRCWG Future Regulation Reform Agenda http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/General/2011/Ai_Group_submission_to_BRCWG_Future_Regulation_Reform_Agenda.pdf This submission outlines the Australian Industry Group priorities for a second tranche of regulatory reforms in the context of the progress of the first tranche of COAG related regulatory reforms, findings of recent Australian Industry Group research regarding business regulation and the four themes identified by the Business Regulation and Competition Working Group under COAG: environmental regulation reform, enhanced workforce mobility and participation, improving sectoral competitiveness and ensuring the benefits of national reform are maintained. Fri, 04 Nov 2011 11:20:57 +1000 Australian Industry Group 106 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Submission - Small Business Victoria Discussion Paper http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/General/2011/Ai_Group_submission_to_Small_Business_Victoria_Review_2011.pdf This submission provides Ai Group’s responses to the issues for discussion outlined in the Small Business Victoria Discussion Paper as well as some additional recommendations to help guide small business development and growth in Victoria. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:27:54 +1000 Australian Industry Group 105 at http://www.aigroup.com.au ACA Reiterates Calls For Government to Abandon Construction Industry Workplace Relations Bill http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=77e2f861bc38f0b3fcec98101026a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_77e2f861bc38f0b3fcec98101026a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DACA%2BReiterates%2BCalls%2BFor%2BGovernment%2Bto%2BAbandon%2BConstruction%2BIndustry%2BWorkplace%2BRelations%2BBill%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252FACA%2BMedia%2BReleases%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The Australian Constructors Association (ACA) has again reiterated its call for the Government to abandon the Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment (Transition to Fair Work) Bill 2011, tabled in parliament today, which will abolish the ABCC. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:23:21 +1000 Australian Industry Group 104 at http://www.aigroup.com.au ABCC is Needed as Much as Ever http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DABCC%2Bis%2BNeeded%2Bas%2BMuch%2Bas%2BEver%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FNovember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Industry remains convinced that a well-resourced construction industry regulator with strong powers needs to be maintained. In this regard we have a number of concerns with key aspects of the Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment (Transition to Fair Work) Bill which was introduced into Parliament today," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:05:17 +1000 Australian Industry Group 103 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PSI®: Services sector softens in October http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPSI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BServices%2Bsector%2Bsoftens%2Bin%2BOctober%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FNovember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Weakening sales and new orders saw the services sector soften in October according to the latest Australian Industry Group/Commonwealth Bank Australian Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®). The latest seasonally adjusted index dropped 1.5 points to 48.8 in October to be below the 50 point level separating expansion from contraction. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 09:56:39 +1000 Australian Industry Group 102 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PMI®: Pace of manufacturing decline eases in October http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPMI%2526reg%253B%253A%2BPace%2Bof%2Bmanufacturing%2Bdecline%2Beases%2Bin%2BOctober%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FNovember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The latest seasonally adjusted Australian Industry Group - PwC Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) contracted in October, albeit at a slower rate than recent months, rising 5.1 points to 47.4 to remain below the 50 point mark separating expansion from contraction. The decline was particularly pronounced across the clothing and footwear sub-sector and sub-sectors linked to the construction industry. Tue, 01 Nov 2011 09:33:26 +1000 Australian Industry Group 101 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Comment on the Prime Minister's announcement on global free trade agenda: http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DComment%2Bon%2Bthe%2BPrime%2BMinister%2527s%2Bannouncement%2Bon%2Bglobal%2Bfree%2Btrade%2Bagenda%253A%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FOctober%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The recognition of the collapse of the Doha round of global free trade talks is not a surprise, given the failure of negotiations between the United States and China over tariffs earlier this year. The challenge for Australia is to now work on comprehensive separate agreements that will bring demonstrable benefits to Australian industry through increased market access while not allowing our trading partners to backslide into protectionist measures in response to deteriorating global economic conditions," said Ai Group Director International and Government Relations, Innes Willox. Wed, 26 Oct 2011 16:27:01 +1000 Australian Industry Group 100 at http://www.aigroup.com.au New laws to reduce QLD green tape welcome http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DNew%2Blaws%2Bto%2Breduce%2BQLD%2Bgreen%2Btape%2Bwelcome%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FOctober%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The introduction into State Parliament today of new legislation aimed at cutting business costs associated with green tape is welcomed by business," said Ai Group Queensland Director, Matthew Martyn-Jones. Wed, 26 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +1000 Australian Industry Group 99 at http://www.aigroup.com.au QLD Waste Reform - Policy Update Factsheet (September 2011) http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Environment%2520and%2520Energy/2011/10508_waste_levy_factsheet_qld_web_change_web.pdf Wed, 26 Oct 2011 12:50:19 +1000 Australian Industry Group 98 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Submission on the Clean Technology Program (CTP) http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Environment%2520and%2520Energy/2011/Submission_Clean_Technology_Program_21_October_2011_FINAL.pdf This Ai Group submission provides input to the Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research on the best design of its proposed Clean Technology Program (CTP). CTP offers $1.2 billion in energy efficiency and emissions reduction grants to manufacturers, and is intended to ease the transition to carbon pricing. Tue, 25 Oct 2011 11:06:27 +1000 Australian Industry Group 97 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Comment from Ai Group Director Workplace Relations, Stephen Smith, on ACTU &insecure work& proposals http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DComment%2Bfrom%2BAi%2BGroup%2BDirector%2BWorkplace%2BRelations%252C%2BStephen%2BSmith%252C%2Bon%2BACTU%2B%2522insecure%2Bwork%2522%2Bproposals%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FOctober%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The ACTU's attempts to limit flexible work arrangements are not in the interests of employers, employees or the community. Employers need flexibility to maintain productivity and competitiveness. Employees need flexibility to meet family responsibilities and lifestyle choices. The community needs flexibility to achieve economic growth, high levels of employment and increased workforce participation," said Ai Group Director of National Workplace Relations, Stephen Smith. Mon, 24 Oct 2011 14:52:45 +1000 Australian Industry Group 96 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Resources Sector to Boost Engineering Construction http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DResources%2BSector%2Bto%2BBoost%2BEngineering%2BConstruction%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252FACA%2BMedia%2BReleases%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Resource-related projects are expected to significantly boost the engineering and commercial construction sectors over the 2011/12 and 2012/13 financial years, according to Australia's leading construction companies. The latest Australian Industry Group/Australian Constructors Association Outlook Survey anticipates that after lifting 6.3% in 2010/11 (current prices), the total value of engineering and commercial construction work will expand by 10.3% in 2011/12 before lifting a further 12.0% the following year. Mon, 24 Oct 2011 14:49:47 +1000 Australian Industry Group 95 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group pays tribute to outgoing Premier Rann http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2Bpays%2Btribute%2Bto%2Boutgoing%2BPremier%2BRann%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FOctober%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Premier Rann presided over and actively shaped the important transformation of the South Australian economy and the State today has a much broader and diverse industry base than when he first became Premier in 2002," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Wed, 19 Oct 2011 12:51:07 +1000 Australian Industry Group 93 at http://www.aigroup.com.au A Victory for Common Sense and Natural Justice http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DA%2BVictory%2Bfor%2BCommon%2BSense%2Band%2BNatural%2BJustice%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FOctober%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Today's Fair Work Australia (FWA) Full Bench appeal decision in the Graham Group case is a victory for common sense and natural justice," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Tue, 18 Oct 2011 15:52:51 +1000 Australian Industry Group 92 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group welcomes appointment of Queensland Business Commissioner http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2Bwelcomes%2Bappointment%2Bof%2BQueensland%2BBusiness%2BCommissioner%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FOctober%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Ai Group welcomes the Queensland Government's appointment of Mr Blair Davies as Queensland's first Business Commissioner," said Ai Group Queensland Director, Matthew Martyn-Jones. Fri, 14 Oct 2011 14:50:27 +1000 Australian Industry Group 91 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Comment on passage of anti- dumping measures http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DComment%2Bon%2Bpassage%2Bof%2Banti-%2Bdumping%2Bmeasures%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FOctober%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Today's passage of the Federal Government's anti- dumping legislation will be viewed positively by industry which has long called for a strengthening of the rules and resources to protect Australian businesses from the illegal dumping of goods on to the Australian market," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Thu, 13 Oct 2011 16:43:59 +1000 Australian Industry Group 90 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Amendments Needed to Fair Work Act Following Today's Decision in ADJ Contracting Case http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAmendments%2BNeeded%2Bto%2BFair%2BWork%2BAct%2BFollowing%2BToday%2527s%2BDecision%2Bin%2BADJ%2BContracting%2BCase%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FOctober%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Today's decision of a Full Bench of Fair Work Australia in the ADJ Contracting appeal is disappointing. The decision highlights the need for the Fair Work Act to be amended to prevent clauses in union pattern agreements restricting legitimate commercial arrangements between contractors and subcontractors and inhibiting the productive organisation of work," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:54:34 +1000 Australian Industry Group 89 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group's appeal in the ADJ Contracting Case - Decision http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Workplace%2520Relations/2011/adj_notice_of_appeal_decision.pdf Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:43:19 +1000 Australian Industry Group 88 at http://www.aigroup.com.au ACA calls on Government to abandon Construction Industry Workplace Relations Bill http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D1%26docName%3DACA%2Bcalls%2Bon%2BGovernment%2Bto%2Babandon%2BConstruction%2BIndustry%2BWorkplace%2BRelations%2BBill%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252FACA%2BMedia%2BReleases%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The Australian Constructors Association (ACA) today called on the Federal Government to abandon plans to introduce the Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment (Transition to Fair Work) Bill 2011, which will abolish the ABCC. Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:42:52 +1000 Australian Industry Group 87 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group South Australia welcomes signing of the BHP Olympic Dam Mine Indenture http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2BSouth%2BAustralia%2Bwelcomes%2Bsigning%2Bof%2Bthe%2BBHP%2BOlympic%2BDam%2BMine%2BIndenture%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FOctober%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Ai Group South Australia Director Stephen Myatt today welcomed the announcement that the South Australian government has signed an indenture agreement with BHP Billiton for the expansion of the Olympic Dam Mine. Thu, 13 Oct 2011 12:34:26 +1000 Australian Industry Group 86 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Strong, Well-resourced Construction Industry Regulator Needs to be Maintained http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DStrong%252C%2BWell-resourced%2BConstruction%2BIndustry%2BRegulator%2BNeeds%2Bto%2Bbe%2BMaintained%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FOctober%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "It is vital that a well-resourced construction industry regulator with strong powers be maintained. The Australian Building and Construction Commissioner (ABCC) is playing an important and effective role in ensuring that the law is complied with by all parties in the construction industry and this role is needed as much as ever," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Wed, 12 Oct 2011 14:13:20 +1000 Australian Industry Group 85 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Climate Bill should be amended http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DClimate%2BBill%2Bshould%2Bbe%2Bamended%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FOctober%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Given economic circumstances, lack of global and domestic consensus, and the structural pressures already on manufacturing, the timing of the Clean Energy Bill couldn't be worse and it should be amended," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 13:06:08 +1000 Australian Industry Group 84 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Strong Stand of the Victorian Government on Construction Reforms is Very Welcome http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DStrong%2BStand%2Bof%2Bthe%2BVictorian%2BGovernment%2Bon%2BConstruction%2BReforms%2Bis%2BVery%2BWelcome%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FOctober%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The leadership shown and the strong stand taken by the Victorian Government in developing its own industrial relations guidelines for the Victorian construction industry is very welcome," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Fri, 07 Oct 2011 10:50:09 +1000 Australian Industry Group 83 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Comment by Ai Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout on Jobs Forum outcome http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DComment%2Bby%2BAi%2BGroup%2BChief%2BExecutive%2BHeather%2BRidout%2Bon%2BJobs%2BForum%2Boutcome%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FOctober%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The measures announced today by the Prime Minister seeking to ease the pressures on Australian industry and build its resilience through the current mining boom are most welcome," Mrs Ridout said. Fri, 07 Oct 2011 09:17:13 +1000 Australian Industry Group 82 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Comment at the conclusion of the Tax Forum by Ai Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DComment%2Bat%2Bthe%2Bconclusion%2Bof%2Bthe%2BTax%2BForum%2Bby%2BAi%2BGroup%2BChief%2BExecutive%2BHeather%2BRidout%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FOctober%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Forum was worth the trip to Canberra; the dialogue was useful and the outcomes have the potential to deliver some positive results. However, we will need to see the policy results before we can judge the true worth of the dialogue. Thu, 06 Oct 2011 12:51:21 +1000 Australian Industry Group 81 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Tax Forum: Heather Ridout makes her opening remarks at the Tax Forum http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/Heather_Ridout_Tax_Forum_Opening_Statement.pdf Tue, 04 Oct 2011 15:28:26 +1000 Australian Industry Group 80 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Transcript - Abc News - 27/09/2011 - The Latest Survey From The Australian Industry Group Has Shown That The Burden Of Regulation Is Rising http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/ABC_27_Sept_11.pdf Tue, 27 Sep 2011 16:30:18 +1000 Australian Industry Group 79 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Tax Reform Priorities - A Position Statement for the Tax Forum October 2011 http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/General/2011/Tax_Reform_Priorities_Oct_2011.pdf Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:45:37 +1000 Australian Industry Group 78 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Statement Of Reform Priorities http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/General/2011/Tax_Forum_participant_statement_of_priorities_AI_GROUP.pdf Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:45:20 +1000 Australian Industry Group 77 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Growing Red Tape Burden Holding Back Business Growth and Innovation http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DGrowing%2BRed%2BTape%2BBurden%2BHolding%2BBack%2BBusiness%2BGrowth%2Band%2BInnovation%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The latest Australian Industry Group/Deloitte CEO survey released today, Business Regulation, points to the high and rising cost of complying with regulation for Australian businesses. At a time when pressures are intensifying to innovate and change business practices, the growing burden of business regulation is proving a barrier to innovation and growth. It requires urgent government attention. Tue, 27 Sep 2011 12:09:26 +1000 Australian Industry Group 76 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group comment on Minister Evans address in nat. skills week http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2Bcomment%2Bon%2BMinister%2BEvans%2Baddress%2Bin%2Bnat.%2Bskills%2Bweek%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "We welcome today's announcement by Minister Evans on Skills Connect," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Wed, 21 Sep 2011 16:25:16 +1000 Australian Industry Group 75 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group comment on ACT passage of WHS bill http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2Bcomment%2Bon%2BACT%2Bpassage%2Bof%2BWHS%2Bbill%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "We are very pleased that the ACT Government has passed the harmonised Work Health and Safety laws without amendments to the model, " said Ai Group NSW Director, Mark Goodsell. Wed, 21 Sep 2011 15:16:29 +1000 Australian Industry Group 74 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Chocolate industry taking responsible steps http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DChocolate%2Bindustry%2Btaking%2Bresponsible%2Bsteps%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "On the tenth anniversary of the Harkin-Engel Protocol it is important to reflect on the enormous improvements the Australian chocolate industry has taken to develop its use of accredited cocoa products. It continues to support global efforts to ensure improvement in the cocoa supply chain," said Ai Group Victorian Director and Principal Advocate, Ai Group Confectionery Sector, Tim Piper. Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:14:46 +1000 Australian Industry Group 73 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Chris Jenkins named new Ai Group Defence Council Chairman http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DChris%2BJenkins%2Bnamed%2Bnew%2BAi%2BGroup%2BDefence%2BCouncil%2BChairman%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The Ai Group Defence Council National Executive has named Thales Australia CEO Chris Jenkins as its new Chairman, replacing outgoing Chairman Jim McDowell. Mon, 19 Sep 2011 09:15:41 +1000 Australian Industry Group 72 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group Statement of new Deputy Premier of Queensland http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2BStatement%2Bof%2Bnew%2BDeputy%2BPremier%2Bof%2BQueensland%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Australian Industry Group congratulates Andrew Fraser on his appointment as Deputy Premier following the retirement of Paul Lucas from the position," said Ai Group QLD Director, Matthew Martyn-Jones. Fri, 16 Sep 2011 14:34:55 +1000 Australian Industry Group 71 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Single safety standard opportunity too important to be missed http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DSingle%2Bsafety%2Bstandard%2Bopportunity%2Btoo%2Bimportant%2Bto%2Bbe%2Bmissed%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Ai Group has put an enormous amount of effort into the harmonisation of OHS laws recognising that safety should come first rather than compliance with nine acts and all the inefficiencies and costs that entails," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Wed, 14 Sep 2011 09:30:43 +1000 Australian Industry Group 70 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Key industry concerns with Carbon Tax remain while risks have been amplified http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DKey%2Bindustry%2Bconcerns%2Bwith%2BCarbon%2BTax%2Bremain%2Bwhile%2Brisks%2Bhave%2Bbeen%2Bamplified%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Government has dealt with some of the technical matters raised by Ai Group and others. However, our key issues of concern have not been addressed and remain major stumbling blocks," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Wed, 14 Sep 2011 09:25:28 +1000 Australian Industry Group 69 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australia's Ranking slips in the World Competitiveness Table http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralia%2527s%2BRanking%2Bslips%2Bin%2Bthe%2BWorld%2BCompetitiveness%2BTable%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Australia has fallen four places to be ranked 20th out of 142 countries in the World Economic Forum's (WEF) 2011-12 Global Competitiveness Index (GCI) rankings," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Wed, 07 Sep 2011 16:57:30 +1000 Australian Industry Group 68 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Business groups in Australia and Canada pursue stronger trade and investment ties http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DBusiness%2Bgroups%2Bin%2BAustralia%2Band%2BCanada%2Bpursue%2Bstronger%2Btrade%2Band%2Binvestment%2Bties%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Business organizations in Australia and Canada have agreed to commission a report on ways to expand trade and investment between the two countries. Wed, 07 Sep 2011 11:28:11 +1000 Australian Industry Group 67 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PCI®: Construction downturn deepens in August http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPCI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BConstruction%2Bdownturn%2Bdeepens%2Bin%2BAugust%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken A sharp fall in new orders together with weak activity across all major sub-sectors saw the national construction industry fall to its lowest level in almost two and half years in August. The Australian Industry Group Australian Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) in conjunction with the Housing Industry Association, dropped 4.0 points to 32.1 to remain below the 50 point level for the 15th consecutive month (readings below 50 indicate a contraction in activity). Wed, 07 Sep 2011 10:45:06 +1000 Australian Industry Group 66 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group NSW Budget comment http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2BNSW%2BBudget%2Bcomment%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Today's NSW Budget represents a positive step forward in the new beginning for NSW. The State's balance sheet remains strong and this puts into perspective the forecast 2011-12 deficit and modest increase in net debt," said Australian Industry Group NSW Director, Mark Goodsell. Tue, 06 Sep 2011 16:08:57 +1000 Australian Industry Group 65 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout discusses IR reform with Ross Greenwood on 2GB’s Money News program http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/Transcript_Ross_Greenwood_5_Sept.pdf Tue, 06 Sep 2011 15:47:00 +1000 Australian Industry Group 64 at http://www.aigroup.com.au The Fair Work Act - The barriers to productivity improvement need to be addressed - Speech to the 10th Annual Workforce Conference - Heather Ridout, Chief Executive, Australian Industry Group - 5 September 2011 http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/Workforce_Conference_Speech_5_Sept_2011_Final.pdf Mon, 05 Sep 2011 16:02:07 +1000 Australian Industry Group 63 at http://www.aigroup.com.au NSW needs sophisticated Budget to address state's competition woes http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DNSW%2Bneeds%2Bsophisticated%2BBudget%2Bto%2Baddress%2Bstate%2527s%2Bcompetition%2Bwoes%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Tomorrow's New South Wales Budget is a prime opportunity for the Government to make some difficult yet necessary decisions to address the State's underperformance," said Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) NSW Director, Mark Goodsell. Mon, 05 Sep 2011 16:01:38 +1000 Australian Industry Group 62 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PSI®: Services sector gets relief in August http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D1%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPSI%25C2%25AE%253A%2B%2BServices%2Bsector%2Bgets%2Brelief%2Bin%2BAugust%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken A welcome lift in new orders and sales took the services sector into positive territory in August according to the latest Australian Industry Group/Commonwealth Bank Australian Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®). The seasonally adjusted index rose 3.3 points to 52.1 in the month (readings above 50 indicate an expansion in activity). Mon, 05 Sep 2011 16:01:14 +1000 Australian Industry Group 61 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PMI®: Manufacturing weakens further in August http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPMI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BManufacturing%2Bweakens%2Bfurther%2Bin%2BAugust%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FSeptember%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken Manufacturing contracted further in August with the Australian Industry Group - PwC Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) down slightly by 0.1 points to 43.3 to remain below the 50 points level separating expansion from contraction. Fri, 02 Sep 2011 14:44:55 +1000 Australian Industry Group 60 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Submission on the Federal Government’s draft Clean Energy Bill and related legislation http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Environment%2520and%2520Energy/2011/Submission_Clean_Energy_Bill_and_related_legislation_22_August_2011.pdf Wed, 31 Aug 2011 14:09:38 +1000 Australian Industry Group 59 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group Submission in response to the National Legislation for MEPS and Energy Labelling Draft Greenhouse and Energy Minimum Standards (GEMS) Bill Industry Consultation Paper, August 2011 http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Environment%2520and%2520Energy/2011/FINAL_Ai_Group_submission_GEMS_draft_Bill_consultation.pdf The GEMS Act will address inconsistencies in current state laws by creating common rules for fees, registration, offences, penalties and reporting. A common date for implementation of new standards will also be positive. Wed, 31 Aug 2011 09:31:25 +1000 Australian Industry Group 58 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout discusses manufacturing action plan and workplace relations reform on ABC PM program http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/ABC_PM_Heather_Ridout_and_Manufacturing_Action_Plan.pdf Tue, 30 Aug 2011 13:04:36 +1000 Australian Industry Group 57 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group Chief Executive comment on meeting with the Prime Minister and the Innovation, Industry, Science and Research Minister http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2BChief%2BExecutive%2Bcomment%2Bon%2Bmeeting%2Bwith%2Bthe%2BPrime%2BMinister%2Band%2Bthe%2BInnovation%252C%2BIndustry%252C%2BScience%2Band%2BResearch%2BMinister%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FAugust%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "It was a very constructive meeting and the Prime Minister was receptive to our concerns and proposals. It was an opportunity to put some good ideas forward about the future of the manufacturing industry in Australia," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Mon, 29 Aug 2011 14:17:28 +1000 Australian Industry Group 56 at http://www.aigroup.com.au National procurement strategy needed to end unfair practices damaging Australian manufacturing http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DNational%2Bprocurement%2Bstrategy%2Bneeded%2Bto%2Bend%2Bunfair%2Bpractices%2Bdamaging%2BAustralian%2Bmanufacturing%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FAugust%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken As part of a coordinated national approach to support manufacturing in Australia, the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) proposes that all levels of government need to adopt a principled and coordinated approach to improve access for domestic suppliers to public sector contracts and to the provision of goods and services for major projects undertaken within Australia. Tue, 23 Aug 2011 17:44:34 +1000 Australian Industry Group 55 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group Comment on passage of Research and Development Bill http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/home/?javax.portlet.tpst=45d3ff6ff99c77712aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_45d3ff6ff99c77712aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2BComment%2Bon%2Bpassage%2Bof%2BResearch%2Band%2BDevelopment%2BBill%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FAugust%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "We remain unconvinced that the R&D Tax Credit Bill will be effective in supporting research and development in large swathes of the manufacturing sector." said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Tue, 23 Aug 2011 17:21:41 +1000 Australian Industry Group 54 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout discusses manufacturing and BlueScope job losses on ABC radio Perth http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/TRANSCRIPT_720_Perth_23_August.pdf Tue, 23 Aug 2011 16:34:39 +1000 Australian Industry Group 53 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Greentape Reduction Discussion Paper and Regulatory Assessment Statement http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Environment%2520and%2520Energy/2011/SKMBT_C35111081013320.pdf Tue, 23 Aug 2011 12:39:00 +1000 Australian Industry Group 52 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Bad day for manufacturing - worse to come without concerted action http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DBad%2Bday%2Bfor%2Bmanufacturing%2B-%2Bworse%2Bto%2Bcome%2Bwithout%2Bconcerted%2Baction%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FAugust%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The extensive restructuring announced by BlueScope Steel represents chilling news not only for those directly affected in the Illawarra and Western Port but also for all those involved in manufacturing in Australia," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Mon, 22 Aug 2011 15:55:59 +1000 Australian Industry Group 51 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout discusses BlueScope job losses, manufacturing and interest rates on ABC's AM program http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/Heather_Ridout_AM_on_Steel_Industry_22_August_11.pdf Mon, 22 Aug 2011 11:52:20 +1000 Australian Industry Group 50 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout discusses manufacturing and jobs on ABC Melbourne radio http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/Edited_extract_of_Heather_Ridout_talking_with_Jon_Faine_on_ABC_Melbourne_17_August_2011.pdf Wed, 17 Aug 2011 14:55:29 +1000 Australian Industry Group 49 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group comment on Defence restructuring http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/home/?javax.portlet.tpst=45d3ff6ff99c77712aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_45d3ff6ff99c77712aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2Bcomment%2Bon%2BDefence%2Brestructuring%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FAugust%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The decision today to add to the already top-heavy Defence Department structure overseeing defence procurement will concern industry, particularly at a time when industry is struggling with the slow roll out of the 2009 Defence White Paper program as well as pressures associated with the high dollar and renewed global economic uncertainty," Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout, said today. Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:38:03 +1000 Australian Industry Group 48 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group comment on government departmental changes http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2Bcomment%2Bon%2Bgovernment%2Bdepartmental%2Bchanges%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FAugust%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Terry Moran has given distinguished service to Australia in a variety of roles including in later years as Australia's most senior public servant," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Fri, 05 Aug 2011 12:35:18 +1000 Australian Industry Group 47 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PCI®: Construction doldrums continue in July http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPCI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BConstruction%2Bdoldrums%2Bcontinue%2Bin%2BJuly%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FAugust%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The national construction industry remained in the doldrums in July with further declines in activity, employment and new orders. The latest Australian Industry Group Australian Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) in conjunction with the Housing Industry Association, rose just 0.3 points to 36.1. It was the 14th consecutive month of contraction for the sector (readings below 50 indicate a contraction in activity). Fri, 05 Aug 2011 09:38:14 +1000 Australian Industry Group 46 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PSI: Services sector soft in July http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPSI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BServices%2Bsector%2Bsoft%2Bin%2BJuly%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FAugust%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The overall level of activity in the services sector was broadly unchanged in July with the latest Australian Industry Group/Commonwealth Bank Australian Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®) up 0.3 points to 48.8 to remain below the 50 point level separating expansion from contraction. The seasonally adjusted index has been in negative territory for ten of the past twelve months. Wed, 03 Aug 2011 10:28:24 +1000 Australian Industry Group 44 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Comment by Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout, on today's RBA decision http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DComment%2Bby%2BAi%2BGroup%2BChief%2BExecutive%252C%2BHeather%2BRidout%252C%2Bon%2Btoday%2527s%2BRBA%2Bdecision%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FAugust%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The decision was a no-brainer. It will be received with relief by the bulk of the Australian economy which is experiencing tough trading conditions," Mrs Ridout said. Tue, 02 Aug 2011 16:25:16 +1000 Australian Industry Group 43 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PMI: Manufacturing contracts in July http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3Dasdf%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FAugust%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The manufacturing industry slumped in July reflecting the tough trading conditions that continue to restrict growth in the sector. The latest seasonally adjusted Australian Industry Group - PwC Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) fell 9.5 points to 43.4 in July to be below the 50 point level separating expansion from contraction. Mon, 01 Aug 2011 12:56:53 +1000 Australian Industry Group 42 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Full Bench to Hear Key Fair Work Act Appeal Tomorrow http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DFull%2BBench%2Bto%2BHear%2BKey%2BFair%2BWork%2BAct%2BAppeal%2BTomorrow%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJuly%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Tomorrow a Full Bench of Fair Work Australia (FWA) will hear the Australian Industry Group's appeal against the Tribunal's decision in the ADJ Contracting Case. The outcome will be extremely important for employers in maintaining flexible and productive workplaces," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Thu, 28 Jul 2011 16:40:29 +1000 Australian Industry Group 41 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group comment on high Australian dollar http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2Bcomment%2Bon%2Bhigh%2BAustralian%2Bdollar%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJuly%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Australian dollar is being buffeted upwards by the vicissitudes of the global economy and this is coming on top of the elevated level of the dollar linked to the resources boom. Australian industry is a price-taker in this environment," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Wed, 27 Jul 2011 14:40:14 +1000 Australian Industry Group 40 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Opinion piece: Heather Ridout on the impact of the carbon tax on the economy http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/Heather_Ridout_Advertiser_op_ed_july_11_final.pdf Wed, 20 Jul 2011 16:02:12 +1000 Australian Industry Group 39 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout discusses AWU job loss comments regarding carbon tax with Steve Price on MTR http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/Transcript_Heather_Ridout_on_Steve_Price_190711.pdf Wed, 20 Jul 2011 12:07:11 +1000 Australian Industry Group 38 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout speech on labour market constraints to Economic and Social Outlook Conference 2011 http://www.theaustralian.com.au/higher-education/higher-education-and-industry/story-e6frgcjx-1226085080915 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 12:07:02 +1000 Australian Industry Group 37 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout discusses the Carbon Tax on Network Ten's 'Meet the Press' http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/Heather_Ridout_Meet_The_Press_17_07_2011.pdf Wed, 20 Jul 2011 12:06:39 +1000 Australian Industry Group 36 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout on the implications for business of the climate change package - Australian Financial Review http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/op_ed_climate_afr_final.pdf Wed, 20 Jul 2011 12:06:20 +1000 Australian Industry Group 35 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout talks to Fran Kelly about the impact of the climate change package on business on ABC's Radio National Breakfast program http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/Transcript_fran_kelly_11_July_2011.pdf Wed, 20 Jul 2011 12:05:52 +1000 Australian Industry Group 34 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Climate package: Industry remains concerned about damage to competitiveness http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DClimate%2Bpackage%253A%2BIndustry%2Bremains%2Bconcerned%2Babout%2Bdamage%2Bto%2Bcompetitiveness%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJuly%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Today's package is complex and raises many questions which we will need to examine closely in consultation with our members. At first glance, however, our evaluation suggests that large parts of industry will be underwhelmed and will remain deeply concerned that their competitiveness will be damaged. This is especially so in these very uncertain economic times when manufacturing in particular is experiencing extremely stressful economic conditions," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Tue, 19 Jul 2011 10:42:43 +1000 Australian Industry Group 33 at http://www.aigroup.com.au New CitiPower Substation http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D1%26docName%3DNew%2BCitiPower%2BSubstation%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJuly%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) congratulates CitiPower and Powercor Australia on the official opening of its zone substation at Southbank today and recognises the importance of this modern infrastructure for ensuring reliable and secure power supply for residents and industry in the precinct," said Ai Group Victorian Director, Tim Piper. Tue, 19 Jul 2011 10:42:13 +1000 Australian Industry Group 32 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group Comment on Defence Materiel Organisation CEO http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2BComment%2Bon%2BDefence%2BMateriel%2BOrganisation%2BCEO%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJuly%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The outgoing CEO of the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO), Dr Stephen Gumley, oversaw a period of great change in the organisation and made an important contribution to the industry in Australia," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Thu, 07 Jul 2011 16:29:37 +1000 Australian Industry Group 31 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Important step towards national WHS harmonisation http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DImportant%2Bstep%2Btowards%2Bnational%2BWHS%2Bharmonisation%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJuly%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) strongly welcomes today’s introduction into Federal Parliament of Commonwealth legislation reflecting the national agreement on harmonised work health and safety laws," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:51:57 +1000 Australian Industry Group 30 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Aid Review has welcome focus on lifting business engagement http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAid%2BReview%2Bhas%2Bwelcome%2Bfocus%2Bon%2Blifting%2Bbusiness%2Bengagement%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJuly%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Independent Review of Aid Effectiveness released today puts a welcome emphasis on improving the engagement of business in the aid program and the mutual benefits of creating stronger trading partners and opening emerging markets," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout. Wed, 06 Jul 2011 12:49:03 +1000 Australian Industry Group 29 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Fair Work Act two years on - Change needed to avoid economic risk http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DFair%2BWork%2BAct%2Btwo%2Byears%2Bon%2B-%2BChange%2Bneeded%2Bto%2Bavoid%2Beconomic%2Brisk%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJune%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Two years on from the implementation of the Fair Work Act there is an increasingly strong view that amendments are vital if we are to avoid economic risk down the track" said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Tue, 28 Jun 2011 15:13:03 +1000 Australian Industry Group 28 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Anti-dumping measures a positive step http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DAnti-dumping%2Bmeasures%2Ba%2Bpositive%2Bstep%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJune%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The new anti-dumping measures announced today by the Federal Government are a positive step to help rebalance the playing field for Australian Industry in the face of illegal trading practices," Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout, said today. Thu, 23 Jun 2011 09:19:39 +1000 Australian Industry Group 26 at http://www.aigroup.com.au NSW run with this - Ai Group ideas for a fresh start http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Reports/2011/Ai_Group_2011_NSW_Election_Policies_FINAL_17feb.pdf This election presents NSW with the chance for a fresh start and the opportunity for the next Government to address the state's chronic underperformance. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:31:58 +1000 Australian Industry Group 23 at http://www.aigroup.com.au ACA Elects New President http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=77e2f861bc38f0b3fcec98101026a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_77e2f861bc38f0b3fcec98101026a0a0=index%3D2%26docName%3DACA%2BElects%2BNew%2BPresident%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252FACA%2BMedia%2BReleases%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The Australian Constructors Association (ACA) has elected Mr Peter Brecht, Chief Executive Officer of Valemus Australia Pty Ltd, as its new President. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:17:19 +1000 Australian Industry Group 22 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Key Points from Submission on Government's proposed Carbon Pricing Model http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Environment%2520and%2520Energy/2011/Key_Points_Ai_Group_Carbon_Price_Submission.pdf This submission outlines Australian Industry Group's comments to the Government on its proposed carbon pricing model. It argues that, if the Government's proposed scheme goes ahead, it should start with a moderate carbon price; move quickly to be fully internationally linked; contain strong and effective measures for trade exposed businesses; ensure the continuity of electricity supply; be accompanied by clear processes under which the plethora of existing emissions-related regulation will be reviewed and removed; and be supported by investments in research, development and deployment of low-emissions technologies. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:16:08 +1000 Australian Industry Group 21 at http://www.aigroup.com.au National Foundation Skills Strategy for Adults http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Education%2520and%2520Training/2011/S_NationalFoundationSkillsStrategyforAdults_ConsultationPaper_AiGroup_May2011.pdf Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) welcomed the opportunity to respond to the Consultation Paper for the National Foundation Skills Strategy (NFSS) for Adults. It is our view that a national strategy in this area is long overdue and we have been calling for a National Workforce Literacy Strategy since 2008. The need for a national strategy is derived from our own research together with the results of the Adult Literacy and Life Skills Survey. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:11:28 +1000 Australian Industry Group 17 at http://www.aigroup.com.au A shared responsibility - Apprenticeships for the 21st Century http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Policy%2520and%2520Representation/Submissions/Education%2520and%2520Training/2011/S_AiGroupResponse_ASharedResponsibility_Apprenticeshipsforthe21stCentury_April2011.pdf The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) welcomed the opportunity to respond to A shared responsibility, Apprenticeships for the 21st Century, Final Report of the Expert Panel, 31 January 2011. It has been our view for some time that there is a need for significant reform of this most important pathway to employment. The case for reform is effectively outlined within the Final Report. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:10:52 +1000 Australian Industry Group 16 at http://www.aigroup.com.au It's time to put some common sense in the climate debate - Opinion Piece and Key Points from Ai Group's Submission on the Government's Carbon pricing Model http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Speeches/2011/Op_ed_and_Key_Points.pdf Article which appeared in The Age 30 May 2011 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:09:09 +1000 Australian Industry Group 15 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Heather Ridout discusses the impact of the high dollar on manufacturing on ABC’s Lateline Business program http://www.abc.net.au/lateline/business/items/201106/s3246034.htm Australia's manufacturing industry is calling on the Government to help stop the slide of jobs in the sector. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:08:15 +1000 Australian Industry Group 14 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Review of the 2011-12 Victorian Budget http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/binary/com.epicentric.contentmanagement.servlet.ContentDeliveryServlet/LIVE_CONTENT/Publications/Reports/2011/Review_of_the_VIC_2011_12_State_Budget.pdf In the 2011-12 Victorian Budget, the Treasurer announced a number of initiatives that were advocated by Ai Group in our submissions to the Victorian Government ahead of the Budget. The emphasis in our submissions was on the importance of Government support for lifting the competitiveness of the Victorian economy. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:07:01 +1000 Australian Industry Group 13 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group and Ai Group Defence Council welcome appointment of new CDF http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D10%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2Band%2BAi%2BGroup%2BDefence%2BCouncil%2Bwelcome%2Bappointment%2Bof%2Bnew%2BCDF%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJune%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Lieutenant General David Hurley is a worthy successor to Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston as Australia’s next Chief of the Defence Force (CDF)," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:05:24 +1000 Australian Industry Group 12 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group Comment on GDP Data http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D9%26docName%3DAi%2BGroup%2BComment%2Bon%2BGDP%2BData%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJune%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The contraction in today’s national accounts was stronger than expected due largely to the disruption to coal exports which is likely to be a one off. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:05:01 +1000 Australian Industry Group 11 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PSI®: Services sector eased in May http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D8%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPSI%25C2%25AE%253A%2B%2BServices%2Bsector%2Beased%2Bin%2BMay%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJune%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The services sector eased in May according to the latest Australian Industry Group/Commonwealth Bank Australian Performance of Services Index (Australian PSI®). The seasonally adjusted index fell 1.6 points to 49.9 after a strong lift the previous month (readings below 50 indicate a contraction in activity). Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:04:18 +1000 Australian Industry Group 10 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Minimum Wage Rise Carries Risks http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D7%26docName%3DMinimum%2BWage%2BRise%2BCarries%2BRisks%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJune%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Today's decision by Fair Work Australia to increase minimum wages by 3.4 per cent will be punishing for big employing sectors under siege from the high dollar, rising energy prices and facing the prospect of further interest rate rises," said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Heather Ridout. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:03:33 +1000 Australian Industry Group 9 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian PCI®: Weakness continues across construction http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D6%26docName%3DAustralian%2BPCI%25C2%25AE%253A%2BWeakness%2Bcontinues%2Bacross%2Bconstruction%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJune%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken The weakness in the national construction industry continued in May according to the latest Australian Industry Group Australian Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) in conjunction with the Housing Industry Association. The seasonally adjusted index lifted 1.7 points to 39.6 (readings below 50 indicate a contraction in activity) to mark the twelfth straight month of contraction. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:02:47 +1000 Australian Industry Group 8 at http://www.aigroup.com.au South Australian State Budget 2011 &Budget of Consolidation& http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D5%26docName%3DSouth%2BAustralian%2BState%2BBudget%2B2011%2B%2522Budget%2Bof%2BConsolidation%2522%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJune%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "Following a tough budget last year, today's State Budget was one of consolidation," said Ai Group SA Director, Stephen Myatt. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:02:02 +1000 Australian Industry Group 7 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Workers comp increase to hurt QLD industry http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D4%26docName%3DWorkers%2Bcomp%2Bincrease%2Bto%2Bhurt%2BQLD%2Bindustry%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJune%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The decision by WorkCover Queensland to this week raise the average worker's compensation premium rate by a further 9% for 2011/12 is very poorly timed and could jeopardise Queensland jobs," Australian Industry Group Queensland Director Matthew Martyn-Jones said today. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:01:16 +1000 Australian Industry Group 6 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Not enough progress on improving the Budget Bottom Line http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/releases/?javax.portlet.tpst=576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_576c3f2a4adc0f512aec2f100141a0a0=index%3D3%26docName%3DNot%2Benough%2Bprogress%2Bon%2Bimproving%2Bthe%2BBudget%2BBottom%2BLine%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJune%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "The Queensland Budget could have done much more to improve the state's recurrent Budget position," said Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) Queensland Director, Matthew Martyn-Jones. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:00:31 +1000 Australian Industry Group 5 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Australian Industry Group Comment on Research and Development Bill http://www.aigroup.com.au/portal/site/aig/template.MAXIMIZE/mediacentre/?javax.portlet.tpst=0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0_ws_MX&javax.portlet.prp_0328197f3ace113a24afbc100141a0a0=index%3D0%26docName%3DBusiness%2Bwelcomes%2BNSW%2Bpublic%2Bsector%2Bwage%2Bdecision%26viewID%3Dcontent%26folderPath%3D%252FLIVE_CONTENT%252FMedia%2BReleases%252F2011%252FJune%252F&javax.portlet.begCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken&javax.portlet.endCacheTok=com.vignette.cachetoken "As we have done from the start, Ai Group supports the areas of improvement in the R&D Tax Credit Bill which the Government announced today had received cross-bench endorsement in the Senate. Ai Group has supported the increase in the effective rate of the tax incentive for small and medium businesses and the quarterly payment of the refundable tax offset for companies in a tax loss position. We also welcome the Government's belated decision to remove the retrospective impact from its proposal, which we would have regarded as extremely retrograde," said Ai Group Chief Executive, Heather Ridout. Thu, 16 Jun 2011 15:32:13 +1000 Australian Industry Group 1 at http://www.aigroup.com.au Ai Group on Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/The_AiGroup The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) is now on Twitter. Follow @The_AiGroup for instant updates on Ai Group's press releases, policy statements, submissions, reports and media comments. Thu, 16 Jun 2011 15:32:13 +1000 Australian Industry Group 2 at http://www.aigroup.com.au