Archived News for Professionals in Federal Government - May, 2014
The architect of Australia’s significant education funding reforms has lamented their deterioration, just a few years after being put in place.
Roadshow to release northern neglected regions
The Federal Government’s inquiry into the economic future of the northern half of Australia has been touring the region, talking to various groups about the path to a successful tomorrow.
Value found in good government buying
As the tough federal budget continues to take a bashing, a new report may show how government businesses can find some more room to move.
Big fund risks missing goal from limited view
Some leading figures in the Australian research community say the $20 billion “medical research future fund” is a good idea, but will not work unless the policy-makers start listening to scientists.
Councils' new green light meets disapproval
The Federal Environment Minister has defended his decision to give state governments more power over mining approvals.
Push to free trees continues amid rejection
The Federal Government says it will review a draft World Heritage Committee decision, which rejects an application to delist some Tasmanian forests.
Four steps to save state of mind in shifting workplace
Comcare, the workers’ compensation insurance body, has put out a handy tool to help reduce the psychological damage of rapidly changing workplaces.
Mix considered in multi-billion dollar jet plan
Some more details on the planned purchase of nearly 100 questionably-effective Joint Strike Fighters, with some talk that a vertical landing option could bring the cost even higher.
Confused figures widen concern over NBN
The Communications Minister has been caught contradicting his own department’s figures in his attempt to spruik the Coalition’s NBN model.
Doctor shift warned after states' health hit
One state’s Health Minister says a $7 co-payment for appointments will end up costing the Commonwealth.
Light shines on building, buying and burial in NSW
One of Australia’s largest coal supporters has given a glimpse of how much money it costs to “do business in New South Wales”.
Finance watchdog diminished, could have valuable functions sold
The Federal Government is cutting $120 million from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission's (ASIC) funding.
Big Australian spy net appeal revealed
The Australian Government has appealed to the United States for help in gathering all the personal communications of Australians that it can.
Grant freeze takes great deal from locals
Very few have escaped the cost-cutting blade in the latest federal Budget, and Local Government assistance appears to be another victim.
Move to throw away the key for feared refugees
New amendments mean the Australian Government will be able to detain refugees indefinitely.
States caught short, claiming cuts force tax talks
State governments are in virtually open revolt over the hand they were dealt in the latest federal Budget.
Green thinking moves to working after federal fund fix
Australian treasury cost-cutters appear to have scoured legislation for any mention of “clean”, “green” or “renewable” spending, and promptly hacked it down.
Public staff asked to do much more with far fewer
With the axing of 16,500 public servants over the next three years, the Abbott government's first budget has included the biggest staff cut in the federal bureaucracy for decades.
A cheap and easy way to trap centuries of supply
An Australian expert has put forth a proposal that could protect the nation from water scarcity for generations.
Trucking boss wants watchdog to look nationwide
The head of the Transport Workers Union has a recommendation which could deliver a better standard of politician.
Water review brings experts to trim tape
The Water Act will be reviewed, as the Federal Government maintains its rampant red tape cutting agenda.