Archived News for Professionals in Federal Government - December, 2020
A review has found the APS needs some new accountability measures, but nothing “radical”.
New step for searches
The Federal Government says it will take on new measures to protect press freedom.
MDBP missing big points
Experts have reflected on the latest 5-year evaluation of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan (MDBP).
Coal block gets official
Trade Minister Simon Birmingham says Australia will seek restitution for China’s ban on Australian coal.
Porter backs pay plans
The Federal Government has knocked back a union attempt to get tough on underpayments.
UK moves to keep comments
The UK is planning to regulate social media firms over their content removal practices.
ACCC wants food fair-trading
Regulators say farmers should be protected from the lack of diversity in perishable food retail.
Broad support for UBI
A recent survey found nearly two-thirds of Australians would support a universal basic income (UBI).
Cashless card extended
The Federal Government has failed to make the cashless welfare program permanent, but has won an extension.
New debt deals questioned
Incentives for Centrelink’s new debt collectors have revived Robodebt concerns.
ATO shows mass avoidance
The ATO has released its latest corporate tax transparency data, showing hundreds of companies have reduced their tax bills to zero.
Remote food issues reported
A parliamentary inquiry has found food security is a constant concern for many remote Indigenous communities.
Report slams aged response
A Senate report has found the Morrison government is to blame for aged care failures during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Casual switch questioned
The Federal Government is defending its planned IR reforms against concern that the changes will not do what they claim.
BOM influence alleged
Reports say global energy giants have influenced Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology (BOM).
March mooted for local jabs
With COVID-19 vaccinations on the way for the US and UK, Australian authorities say locals must wait a little bit longer.
NBN waiver celebrated
A new report says consumers have seen record broadband speeds during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Services makes big tech buy
Services Australia is spending $19 million on new specialist ICT services.
States praised for green goals
The UN has thanked Australian states for their net zero commitments, but not the Federal Government.