Archived News for Professionals in Federal Government

Barnaby Joyce will take the captain’s chair on a voyage toward new and bigger dams.

Carbon consideration in minimum wage talks

The Federal Government says the Fair Work Commission should take into account its promise to cut the carbon tax when setting the minimum wage.

Net baron sets sights on office

An Internet entrepreneur and figure representing the new age of online activism has launched a political party.

Push for pancreatic cancer pill's PBS inclusion

The company behind an important new cancer drug has told Australian oncologists that negotiations with the Federal Government have broken down, and their product will no longer be available.

Rural projects' pain at living away changes

An industry body says new limits on tax concessions for Living Away From Home Allowances (LAFHA) are making rural construction projects more expensive, and placing a hefty burden on business.

Bodies clash on gas prices and protection

The industry lobby for Australian manufacturers says high gas prices and a domestic shortage will lead to the loss of over 100,000 jobs.

Serious issues seem not to set back massive military spend

Australia will likely spend billions on a Defence acquisition recently described as “unaffordable”, buying dozens of planes that currently cannot stay together for more than a few hours.

Public sector bargainers say Abetz off the table

The Community and Public Sector Union is forcing the government into negotiations on wages and conditions for 160,000 workers across state and federal levels.

Repeal spree to kill valid anti-terror watchdog

Among the more concerning legislation placed on the ‘repeal day’ chopping board is the independent monitoring of anti-terrorism laws, according to a legal expert.

Court to hear new claims of Greg Hunt's failure

A court case will argue that Federal Environment Minister Greg Hunt failed in his obligation to protect the environment, by approving the dredging and expansion of the Abbot Point coal terminal.

Senate retains tax some say undermines mining

The Senate has rejected the Federal Government's attempt to bury the mining tax, voting down legislation to abolish the MRRT by 35 votes to 32.

Industry calls for road charge change for more funding avenues

A new report has added weight to the argument that all users should pay for roads, highlighting new ways to fund advanced infrastructure.

Disability reviewed while rapid roll-out faces delay

The future of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is unclear once more, with a report into the agency set up to run it saying the scheme is woefully ill-prepared.

Funds locked awaiting future fuel review

Media outlets claim at least $1 billion worth of resource projects are on hold in Victoria alone, awaiting the review of the Renewable Energy Target.

Abetz lays groundwork for broad building changes

The Federal Government believes jobs and capital are at stake, as it moves to reduce union power on building sites.

Tech firms try for transparency while Joyce dangles cows

Some of the world’s leading online companies and communities have spoken out about efforts to “fast track” the Trans-Pacific Partnership, saying governments should ease up in their push to create a corporate-friendly, freedom-restricting future.

Anti-bullying day takes aim at online hate

Parents are being encouraged to talk with their kids and take a larger role in their online activities, hoping to cut the harmful effects of cyber-bullying on a national day of action.

Audit launched on shaky basis

A submission from the Community and Public Sector Union has poked holes in the very basis of the Government's Commission of Audit, saying parts of the Public Service probe are simply wrong.

Repeal voted down leaves carbon price alive for now

The Senate has voted down a bill to axe the carbon tax, depriving the Prime Minister of a much-touted election promise and setting the scene for another fight in July.