Business News Releases

Mount Isa announcement highlights need for policies to encourage new investment

THE Queensland Resources Council (QRC) said the decision by Glencore to close its Mount Isa Mines underground copper operations and Lady Loretta zinc mine was unfortunate, but understandable, and commended the company for its commitment to work with affected employees to find new opportunities.

Glencore will, according to the QRC, maintain a strong presence in the region through its copper smelter, George Fisher Mine, zinc-lead concentrator and lead smelter and Townsville copper refinery.

QRC chief executive Ian Macfarlane said the announcement highlighted the need for new resources investment in Queensland to develop new projects as major mines like this reach their end of life.

“The future success of the resources sector cannot be taken for granted by governments and we need policies that encourage investment in new Queensland resources projects as more mines reach their end of production in coming years,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“The Queensland Government needs to start listening to the many warnings about the threat to future investment as a result of its snap decision to impose the world’s highest coal royalty tax rates.

“In the current global economic climate, the State Government should be doing all it can to attract investment in new resources projects in Queensland.

“It’s time the Queensland Government started encouraging resources investment, which will support exploration and investment in new projects, rather than discouraging it with the world’s highest royalty taxes and endless approval processes,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“Queensland’s North West Minerals Province offers enormous potential for the resources sector with abundant reserves of many the critical minerals the world needs to develop the new technologies for a decarbonised future.

“That potential can only be fully reached with the backing of investors providing the billions of dollars to develop the projects that will provide future jobs and economic benefits for Queensland.

“Sudden Government policy changes and over-complicated red and green tape and regulation will do little to encourage investors when they have more attractive options in other states and countries.”

www.qrc.org.au

 

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Audit Committee responds to Commonwealth performance reporting inquiry

THE Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit (JCPAA) has tabled its report for its inquiry into the 2021–22 Annual Performance Statements audits by the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO).

The committee’s report focused on issues raised in the report, such as the impact of Machinery of Government changes, and the ANAO’s conduct of these audits, including the scheduling of these audits.  

Chair of the JCPAA, Julian Hill MP said, "Performance reporting may not be the most exciting of topics, but for public sector agencies charged with serious responsibilities and entrusted with spending billions of dollars wisely it really, really matters. Unlike financial reporting, which has been subject to ANAO audits for decades, performance reporting has been underdeveloped and under resourced.

“Plainly speaking, while Australians can trust the accounts of government departments as they are thoroughly audited, for too long the Parliament and the public have had no reliable way of knowing whether what agencies report in their performance statements is true or not. Do all those often mind-numbing KPIs and measures fairly represent what an agency does? Are there actually data sources underneath all the reports? Are they a fair measure of what’s been achieved, or did someone fudge the books?

“The ANAO’s 2021–22 Annual Performance Statements audits showed a clear improvement in the performance reporting and highlighted a number of key issues, such the lack of verifiable methodologies or supporting information for performance measures, as well as valuable examples of better practice," Mr Hill said.

The committee was concerned with the current need for performance statements audits to be requested by the Finance Minister before the ANAO can begin their work. This is an unnecessary process that can significantly delay these audits, and should be removed.”

The committee’s report makes four recommendations to improve the process and impact of performance statements audits.

The committee’s interim report and further information on the inquiry is available on the Committee website.

 

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Tax agent banned for enabling unregistered preparers

The Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) terminated the registration of Queensland tax agent, Gary Turner and imposed the maximum five-year ban from reapplying for registration, claiming he "showed total disregard for the tax profession and the welfare of taxpayers when he allowed unregistered preparers to dodge the registration requirements".

The TPB statement alleged, "He did this by allowing the unregistered preparers to use his tax agent number and his access to the Australian Taxation Office via online services for agents, to provide tax agent services."

According tot he TPB, unregistered preparers, "who are often unqualified and poorly trained, operate outside of the law and pose a serious risk to taxpayers, the profession and the tax system. It is important for taxpayers to understand that if an unregistered preparer makes a mistake or submits a fraudulent tax return on their behalf, the taxpayer will be accountable for any liabilities and will have to pay any Australian Taxation Office penalties.

"It is also unlikely that an unregistered preparer will have appropriate professional indemnity insurance cover to compensate a taxpayer if they suffer a loss due to an error or omission that results from a service they provide."

TPB investigations found Mr Turner had breached several Code of Professional Conduct items. This included making false statements to the TPB to hide the fact he had not completed continuing professional education requirements (CPE). CPE is an important ongoing registration requirement that assists tax practitioners in maintaining the knowledge and skills relevant to the services they provide.

In addition, Mr Turner claimed that he met the relevant experience requirements for registration even though he had not. He also failed to provide adequate supervision for the tax agent services provided on his behalf.

Due to his serious failures and his repeated misconduct, it was determined Mr Turner was no longer a fit and proper person to be registered as a tax agent.

Chair of the TPB, Peter de Cure AM, is warning all tax practitioners that there are serious consequences for allowing people to use their registration number.

"Anyone providing tax agent services on your behalf must be supervised," Mr de Cure said. "We will not allow this unethical behaviour to go unpunished and will continue to protect the public and prioritise these serious breaches of law and trust."

Mr de Cure went on to say ‘Mr Turner’s conduct was serious and demonstrated dishonesty. His actions undermined the integrity of the tax profession and posed an unacceptable risk to the public."

As a part of the TPB’s new Client Support Program, the TPB will be contacting the clients of Gary Turner urging them to ensure their personal information is secure and, if required, to seek out the services of a registered tax or BAS agent.

This program has been developed by the TPB to assist and support the community by ensuring tax practitioner services are provided in accordance with appropriate standards of professional and ethical conduct. It provides support to clients that find themselves in a difficult situation after using the services of a high-risk tax practitioner. For help finding a registered tax or BAS agent, check the TPB Register.

About the Tax Practitioners Board

The TPB regulates tax practitioners in order to protect consumers. The TPB aims to assure the community that tax practitioners meet appropriate standards of professional and ethical conduct. Followon Twitter, LinkedInandFacebook.

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Treaties Committee recommends ratification of India Co-Production Agreement

THE Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT) has tabled a report recommending the ratification of the Audiovisual Co-production Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the Republic of India (Mumbai, March 10, 2023).

The Agreement provides a framework for Australia and India to cooperate on the approval and making of audiovisual productions which could include feature films, television, video recordings, animations, and digital format productions.

Committee Chair Josh Wilson MP said, "The committee’s scrutiny of this Agreement highlights that there is considerable value in Australia connecting and collaborating with the Indian film industry. The Agreement provides a valuable means for the two countries to share knowledge, skills, logistics and creative abilities.”

This would be the 14th co-production arrangement that Australia has entered into under Australia’s International Co-Production Program. The projects that are approved as official co-productions under the Agreement would be regarded as national productions of both Australia and India.

Mr Wilson said, “The Agreement would encourage employment in the screen industry, as well as technical development in the field of audiovisual production. It would also build on the existing, strong, and multifaceted relationship between Australia and India and benefit cultural exchange.”

The committee noted support for the Agreement from the government and representatives of the Australian-India film industry.

The committee supports ratification and recommends that binding treaty action be taken.

The report can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiry.

 

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Australia's transition to a green energy superpower: report published

THE Joint Standing Committee on Trade and Investment Growth has released its report on Australia's transition to a green energy superpower, which examined how Australia can build on its strengths and opportunities to become a leading destination for trade and investment in the future global green economy.

Chair of the Committee, Steve Georganas MP, said, "Throughout the inquiry the committee heard about the vast range of current and emerging opportunities for Australia, capitalising on our unique strengths and comparative advantages to develop new export-led industries, driving economic growth and creating jobs.

"Australia is well-placed to benefit from the global green energy transition and is well on its way to becoming a green energy superpower. The 16 recommendations made by the committee in this report aim to ensure that we are doing everything possible to strengthen the transition and to maximise Australia’s potential in the global green economy."

Recommendations made by the committee focussed on the role for the Australian Government to accelerate Australia’s opportunities and address challenges, including:

  • Leveraging Australia’s existing trade and investment architecture to maximise opportunities in the global green economy;
  • Supporting value-added manufacturing and export opportunities;
  • Developing a national green energy superpower strategy;
  • Aligning trade and investment promotion and awareness building functions with Australia’s green energy superpower ambitions; and
  • Enhancing sovereign manufacturing capability in industries subject to supply chain constraints.

Over the course of the inquiry, the committee held 10 public hearings in Canberra, Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Gladstone, in addition to receiving over 120 written submissions from individuals, organisations and government bodies.

The committee thanked people and organisations who took part in the inquiry by providing written submissions, giving evidence at public hearings or hosting the committee for site visits.

The full report can be found on the committee’s ​inquiry webpage.

 

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Applications closing for the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award

TIME is running out to apply for the 2024 AgriFutures Rural Women's Award, a program celebrating and empowering the inclusive and courageous leadership of women in Australia's rural and emerging industries, businesses, and communities. 

Applications will close on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at 11.59pm AEDT.

The award acts as a springboard, inspiring and nurturing Australian women to harness their skills for the betterment of their industries and communities, while simultaneously unlocking doors to crucial funding opportunities for existing projects and businesses.

Beyond recognition, the award also provides a pathway for personal and professional growth, offering not only access to vital funding but also a doorway to extensive professional development opportunities and a cherished alumni network.

State and territory winners are awarded a $15,000 grant sponsored by Westpac. Importantly, the program welcomes applications from women across Australia, irrespective of their location.

AgriFutures Australia managing director, John Harvey said AgriFutures was committed to the future growth and advancement of the award as a means of identifying, celebrating and empowering women.

“If you are passionate about creating impact, innovating, and making a difference in rural and regional Australia, we want to hear from you,” Mr Harvey said.

“By participating in this program, you will become part of a dynamic network of over 350 accomplished women who have been acknowledged for their exceptional contributions to rural industries and rural and regional Australia.”

The 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award National Winner, Nikki Davey said winning the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award has been a game-changer.

“On both a personal and professional level, being involved in the Awards has boosted my confidence and helped transform my business.” Ms Davey said.

“It elevated my potential, provided essential funding, and thrusted my brand into the spotlight, while connecting me with new audiences and communities. I would say to anyone considering applying, if you've got a project that fits the bill, then don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award and join the ranks of incredible women driving change and innovation in rural Australia.”

AgriFutures Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant

AgriFutures also runs a program called the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Acceleration grant. While this runs separately, it compliments the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.

The aim is to provide a leadership and development opportunity to women who are not quite ready to apply for the award.

Each year, seven Australian women will be granted with a learning and development bursary of up to $7,000 for professional development to enable them to bring their idea, cause, or vision to life.

The Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant is one of many AgriFutures Australia initiatives ensuring our rural industries prosper now, and into the future.

For more information and to apply for the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award, visit our website at https://agrifutures.com.au/opportunities/rural-womens-award/.

For more information on the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant visit http://agrifutures.com.au/opportunities/acceleration-grant/

 

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On International Day of the Girl, 'Let a girl be a girl' says SPA

ON OCTOBER 11, the International Day of the Girl Child, Sustainable Population Australia (SPA) has called for a universal concept of ‘let a girl be a girl until they reach full maturity'.

According to THE UN Population Fund (UNFPA), more than 640 million women alive today were married in childhood. In the developing world, nearly one in three women begin bearing children in adolescence. Twelve million adolescents give birth each year.

SPA national president Jenny Goldie said girls were not commodities that can be married off at an early age for the benefit of their families, even in cases of extreme poverty.

“Girls should have the same rights as boys,” Ms Goldie said. “They should be allowed equal nutrition, equal access to health services, equal education, and equal opportunity; in short, equal rights. They should be allowed to marry when they choose to do so.

“Adolescent girls should have comprehensive sexuality education and access to contraception to ensure they have control over their own bodies. Not only should they decide when they are ready to marry, but if and when they will bear children.

“If they are to have equal education and equal opportunities in the workforce, they should delay pregnancy until they are educated. Educated women have fewer children and the reduction in birth-rates will, in turn, reduce pressures on resources and the environment, making life better for all.”

The theme for the 2023 International Day of the Girl is 'Digital generation. Our generation'.

"Girls face disadvantages online,” Ms Goldie said. "2.2 billion people under the age of 25 do not have internet access, with the majority being girls.

“Access to the internet has enormous educational benefits, although it is not without its challenges, especially for girls and their use of social media. Nevertheless, it is undoubtedly a ‘net’ good, providing opportunity for communications with other young people that might otherwise be impossible. It is not difficult to imagine what it might offer the young women of Afghanistan who are otherwise denied access to education and regular social interaction with peers.

“It is important that we allow our daughters and granddaughters to enjoy life as children and adolescents. It is the critical first step towards a healthy and successful adulthood and the fulfilment of enormous potential that lies within each.”

www.population.org.au

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Recognition of carers in spotlight during National Carers Week

CARERS AUSTRALIA will appear before the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs at a public hearing on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 as part of the inquiry into the recognition of unpaid carers. The committee is examining the challenges faced by unpaid carers and options for reforming the Carer Recognition Act 2010.

Committee Chair, Peta Murphy MP said,  "National Carers Week is a time to recognise and celebrate Australia’s 2.65 million unpaid carers who provide care to our most vulnerable. Carers often take on caring roles with very little outside assistance. They are heroes in our communities, and we are grateful for all they do."

Carers Australia argue that the Carer Recognition Act 2010 has not had a significant impact on the recognition of carers because the Act is not enforceable, there are insufficient measures to ensure compliance, and there is a lack of awareness and understanding of the Act by carers, the public, public servants, agencies and associated providers.

Ms Murphy said, "The committee looks forward to hearing from Carers Australia about how carers can be better recognised, respected, supported and have their rights protected."

Public hearing details

Date: Tuesday, 17 October 2023Time: 4:30pm to 5:30pm AEDTLocation: Committee Room 1R3, Parliament House, Canberra

The hearing will be live streamed (audio only) on the APH website: www.aph.gov.au/live.

Further information about the inquiry, including published submissions, hearing dates and transcripts, are available on the inquiry webpage.

 

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Public hearing to hear from experts on AFP counter-terrorism powers

THE Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security (PJCIS) is holding a public hearing on October 16 for its review of the Counter-Terrorism and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023.

The committee will hear from government and non-government representatives to discuss the bill’s proposed amendments to the operation of the Australian Federal Police’s counter-terrorism powers under the Crimes Act 1914 and the Criminal Code Act 1995.

Those powers relate to:

  • authority to stop, question and search persons and seize items in Commonwealth places, including in ‘prescribed security zones’ (Crimes Act, Part 1AA, Division 3A);
  • the control order regime (Criminal Code Division 104); and
  • the preventative detention order regime (Criminal Code Division 105).

PJCIS Chair Peter Khalil MP said, “This Bill implements a number of recommendations from the committee’s review of police powers in 2021, and the committee looks forward to hearing a range of views to inform its consideration of the Counter-Terrorism and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023.”

A program for the hearing can be found here and the hearing will be broadcast live at aph.gov.au/live.

Further information on the review can be obtained from the Committee’s website.

 

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Trade Subcommittee visits Great Ocean Road and Ballarat

THE Trade Subcommittee of the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade will hold a public hearing in Port Campbell today for its inquiry into Australia’s tourism and international education sectors, with an additional public hearing to be held tomorrow in Ballarat.

The subcommittee will hear evidence from a range of stakeholders in regional Victoria’s tourism industry, including First Nations corporations, regional tourism organisations, small businesses and heritage tourism operators.

Chair of the Trade Subcommittee, Senator Deborah O’Neill, said, "The Great Ocean Road continues to be an iconic tourist destination in regional Victoria and the subcommittee is looking forward to gaining insights into what can be done to further encourage overseas visitors into this region. In travelling to Ballarat, the subcommittee will better understand how heritage tourism in places like the Goldfields and the Sovereign Hill Living Museum may be an untapped opportunity for Australia.

"In its quest to better understand the unique tourism experiences offered across Australia, the subcommittee is interested to hear different perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing operators in this part of regional Australia," Senator O’Neill said. "We also look forward to continuing our discussions about the connections between tourism and international education, and the role of international students in the operations of universities in regional Australia."

Further information about the inquiry and programs for both hearings are available on the inquiry webpage.

Public hearing – Port Campbell

Date: Tuesday, 3 October 2023Venue: Sunset Room, Port Campbell Lifesaving Club, 1 Cairns St, Port Campbell, VICTime: 9am – 12pm (AEDT)

Public hearing – Ballarat

Date: Wednesday, 4 October 2023Venue: Federation University, SMB Campus Rooms A211 and A214, Building A, Lydiard Street, BallaratTime: 9:20am – 2pm (AEDT).

 

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