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Congratulations to 282,000 Queensland resource sector workers — you are export record breakers, says QRC

INCREASED COAL, LNG and mineral sales have helped Queensland post a record export result of $73.7 billion for the 12 months until the end of May, according to the latest trade data released by the State Government.

Queensland Resources Council chief executive Ian Macfarlane said the resources sector contributed almost $60 billion - or 80 percent - of the result.

“For every 10 dollars Queensland earns through exports, the resources sector contributes eight of those 10 dollars,” he said.

“This is a tribute to the more than 280,000 Queenslanders working directly and indirectly in the resources sector. To those men and women, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, in the regions and the south-east – please accept the congratulations on behalf of all Queenslanders.”

Over the last 12 months:

  • Coal exports increased by $5 billion or 18% to $32.8 billion;
  • Mineral exports increased by $634.2 million or 9.3% to $7.4 billion; and
  • LNG, alumina and semi-soft coking metallurgical coal to $20.9 billion of exports classified as confidential. This category of exports increased by $3.8 billion or 22%.


Mr Macfarlane said Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk was correct to highlight the increase in coal exports was due to a recovery from the devastating impact of Tropical Cyclone Debbie in March and April 2017.

“What the Premier, the coal industry and Queenslanders do not know is how monopoly rail operator Aurizon will apply its threat to stop up to 20 million tonnes of coal reaching export ports in central Queensland. If Aurizon follows through with its threat, we estimate a $4 billion cut in coal exports,” he said.

Mr Macfarlane said the Palaszczuk Government last year set itself the target for Queensland to be the source of 22 percent of national exports annually until 2022.

“The latest trade figures put Queensland at 23 percent, ahead of its target. Without resources sector exports, Queensland would provide only 4.4 percent of the nation’s overseas trade. Without coal exports, it would be only 13 percent,” he said.

Link to Queensland Treasury trade data http://www.qgso.qld.gov.au/products/reports/exports-qld-goods-overseas/exports-qld-goods-overseas-201805.pdf

Link to the Premier’s statement on trade results http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2018/7/4/queensland-exports-continue-to-soar-to-new-heights

www.qrc.org.au

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National Congress speaks out on Royal Commission findings of finance companies 'targeting' First Peoples

THE Banking Royal Commission is currently investigating concerns about unethical conduct from finance companies, including funeral insurance companies, accused of targeting vulnerable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with unsuitable products.

This week, the Commission has heard from Aboriginal people in remote communities who have been sold funeral insurance policies which they did not understand and did not need.

Another non-Indigenous company with no Aboriginal affiliation used the rainbow serpent, which holds great importance for First Peoples, in its marketing to lure Aboriginal customers in.

According to consumer groups, some First Peoples have been paying for up to five funeral insurance policies for their families.

The Royal Commission is currently holding public hearings in Darwin, where they are shining the spotlight on these unscrupulous practices.

“Funerals hold great cultural importance for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and many peoples are concerned about how they will be able to afford funerals.” Jackie Huggins, National Congress co-chair, said.

“At the same time, we know that financial literacy is significantly lower among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples than the general population. This makes many First Peoples exceptionally vulnerable to predatory tactics from funeral insurance companies."

National Congress co-chair Rod Little said, “It is criminal that companies, including funeral insurance companies are taking advantage of any vulnerable person, especially Aboriginal peoples in regional and remote communities.

“This is a matter we have calling for action on for some time, however we feel we have been ignored by governments. It is commendable to see the Royal Commission finally drawing attention to this issue. However, we want to see this new evidence translated into affirmative action. This has gone on unaddressed long enough.”

National Congress is calling on governments and authorities to take urgent action to end the financial exploitation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by financial companies.

www.nationalcongress.com.au

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QRC applauds Glencore’s environmental credentials

QUEENSLAND Resources Council chief executive, Ian Macfarlane, today applauded Glencore’s environmental credentials after the company received certification from the Queensland Government for the rehabilitation of 220 hectares of land at its Rolleston Open Cut coal mine south of Emerald.

“It’s another clear and practical example of Glencore’s commitment to the environment and the sustainability of mining in regional Queensland,” he said.

"I congratulate Glencore on again demonstrating its high standards set by its team in the rehabilitation of mined land, this certification covers an area of around 200 Suncorp Stadiums.

“It’s the second time Glencore’s coal operations in Queensland have received certification with the company’s Newlands operations awarded certification for 73 hectares of land last year.

“Queensland’s coal industry adheres to some of the highest environmental standards in the world with a strong focus on the rehabilitation of land post mining.

“The Queensland resources industry is committed to sustainable environmental practices, including world-class rehabilitation, which ensures our resources are developed to our best advantage for local economies and local communities.”

Queensland resources sector supports 280,000 full-time jobs while only using 0.1 per cent of the State’s land mass, Mr Macfarlane said.

www.qrc.org.au

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Better targeting the Research and Development Tax Incentive

THE Turnbull Government is taking an mportant step to better target the Research and Development Tax Incentive (R&DTI), today releasing draft legislation for public comment.

The Treasurer, Scott Morrison MP, alongside the Minister for Jobs and Innovation Senator Michaelia Cash, said the consultation will help strike the right balance for the R&DTI — the Government’s key program for supporting business R&D in Australia.

“We are committed to backing R&D investment and the economic opportunities and jobs it generates. At the same time we need to make sure that the investment of taxpayers’ money is well targeted by encouraging companies to do more, and not just be rewarded for R&D they would have conducted without an incentive,” the Treasurer said.

Minister Cash said the proposed amendments ensure the reforms operate consistently with their policy intent and continue to provide targeted and effective support to innovative Australian companies that undertake R&D in Australia.

“By better targeting R&D investment, these changes will lead to new ideas, products, services and jobs,” Mr Cash said.

The amendments to the R&DTI form the Government’s response to the recommendations of the 2016 Review of the R&D Tax Incentive and the Innovation and Science Australia 2030 Strategic Plan.

The Turnbull Government is seeking stakeholder feedback on the implementation of the proposed amendments. The exposure draft legislation, explanatory materials and consultation document are available on the Treasury website. Interested stakeholders are encouraged to provide their views by Thursday July 26, 2018.

Submissions can be emailed to R&This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. during the consultation period.

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CIPS annual procurement conference on July 4-5

BUSINESS and procurement professionals from around the Asia Pacific region will be networking and discussing the latest issues in global business as CIPS holds its annual conference and awards in the ICC Venue in Sydney on July 4-5, 2018.

The two day event starts with a ‘focus’ day where delegates can hear panel debates on ethics, eradication of modern slavery and sustainable procurement and how businesses can engage with indigenous suppliers. The second day, the future of procurement, creating diversity and talent management in presentations and workshops. There is also a strong focus on modern slavery.

Now that the Australian Government has introduced The Modern Slavery Bill 2018 to become law by where over 3000 companies and organisations will have to produce an annual statement clearly stating their exposure to modern slavery, procurement and supply chain managers will be on the frontline protecting their supply chains, their businesses and seeking guidance.

The reporting requirement will support Australian businesses to create their modern slavery statements and will offer more information to consumers and investors by providing a practical, risk based framework and guidance. This will increase business awareness of modern slavery, reduce modern slavery risks in Australian goods and services, and drive a business ‘race to the top’ to improve workplace standards and practices. 

The Australian Government has run a comprehensive national consultation process to develop the reporting requirement, including 12 consultation roundtables with over 130 participants, 99 written submissions and over 50 direct meetings with key stakeholders.  The conference will explore these issues and more.

Conference and panel speakers include:

  • Gerry Walsh, Group CEO CIPS on the future of procurement
  • Mark Lamb, MD of Asia Pacific and conference chair
  • Jennifer Morris, CEO, Walk Free Foundation
  • Lisa Brock, Chief Procurement Officer, Qantas Airways
  • Peter Curcio, Chief Procurement Officer, Australia and New Zealand Banking Group
  • Mike Blanchard, Deputy Chief Executive Operations Directorate, Tertiary Education Commission

Mark Lamb, managing director of CIPS Asia Pac, conference chair who also featured recently on ABC News about modern slavery said, “We take slavery in supply chains very seriously, so this conference is timely as the Bill goes through to become law.

“I think this is an excellent first step for Australia because we have already seen it implemented in other countries, and for Australia to have taken the next step is a great move. Understanding what goes on in international supply chains is crucial for any businesses. The exposure to reputation and cashflow damage is intense as consumers and other businesses are becoming more savvy to the horrors of this evil trade.

”Come to the conference and find out more.”

CIPS is also holding its annual awards ceremoney on July 5 to celebrate the best procurement individuals, teams and practice. The shortlist includes:
- NSW Prcourement (Dept. of Finance services and Innovation)
- University of Melbourne
- Western Power
- Queensland Government Procurement, Department of Housing and Public Works
- Wide Bay Hospital and health Service & EY

Find out more on the website.


The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS)
The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) is the world’s largest procurement and supply professional organisation.  It is the worldwide centre of excellence on procurement and supply management issues.  CIPS has a global community of over 200,000 in 180 different countries, including senior business people, high-ranking civil servants and leading academics.  The activities of procurement and supply chain professionals have a major impact on the profitability and efficiency of all types of organisation and CIPS offers corporate solutions packages to improve business profitability. 
In the Australasia region, CIPS has been supporting the profession for over 10 years and lists among its clients several blue-chip organisations including Rio Tinto, Air New Zealand, Spotless, Woolworth and the New Zealand Defence Force.

www.cips.org/en-au/; @CIPSAustralasia

Queensland coal export impacts still on the Aurizon

QUEENSLAND coal exports are yet to feel the full force of the repeated threat by monopoly rail operator Aurizon to stop the movement of up to 20 million tonnes annually from mine to port.

Queensland Resources Council chief executive Ian Macfarlane said it was unsurprising that coal exports were higher this year compared to 2017 due to stronger global demand and the impact of Tropical Cyclone Debbie that crossed the coast in March last year.

“Aurizon’s threat - repeated to investors last week - will have a bigger impact on coal exports than Tropical Cyclone Debbie and it will be spread over the year, not just the wet season,” he said.

“Our trading partners, particularly Japan, are watching Aurizon’s actions closely. Coal is our top export commodity with overseas sales more than $30 billion annually.

"Aurizon continues to gloss over the facts. The coal industry is prepared to sit down with them to develop a united position to the Queensland Competition Authority. But we won't do it with a threat hanging over our head.

"Aurizon needs to resume normal maintenance practices immediately and keep that commitment until the next QCA undertaking is finalised and implemented. They need to remove the threat. We won't negotiate under duress."

The loss of up to 20 million tonnes of coal will slash exports by $4 billion per annum and cut royalties used to pay for State Government services and infrastructure by a staggering $500 million per year.

www.qrc.org.au

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Measly year-on-year retail growth for May

THE Australian Retailers Association (ARA) said although May trade figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) are above market expectations, they represent a weaker lead-in to winter than retailers would have liked, displaying a 2.49 percent total growth year-on-year.

Russell Zimmerman, executive director of the ARA, said due to the slow lead-in to winter this year, May retail trade results portray a dim outcome for retailers across the country.

“Although May’s 2.49 percent year-on-year growth seems quite dismal, we need to take into account that this was before the second stage of the penalty rate reduction was implemented and the low-value import threshold (LVIT) GST was introduced,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“While the ARA are concerned with this meek growth, the retail industry received two big wins on July 1 and we look forward to the benefits this will bring our retailers, their staff and the overall economy.”

Food Retailing (3.71%) and Clothing, footwear and personal accessories (3.20%) remained strong, with both categories receiving over 3% growth year-on-year.

“The biggest growth across the ABS retail categories were Liquor (5.95%), Other Retailing (5.77%) and Specialised Food (5.06%) as these categories all received over 5 percent year-on-year growth,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“Another positive for May trade is the fact that Department stores have received their best figures since October last year, this could be because they began their mid-year sales earlier.”

Across the country, the Northern Territory (4.27%) continues to improve its upward trend, closely followed by Tasmania (3.82%) and Victoria (3.69%). New South Wales (2.86%), South Australia (2.35%) and the Australian Capital Territory (2.22%) remain steady, while Queensland (1.97%) received minimal year-on-year growth.

"Unfortunately, we’ve seen Western Australia (-0.74%) continue to struggle, returning to negative figures and significantly lagging behind the rest of the country," Mr Zimmerman said.

“The Northern Territory has received its best growth in over a year, which is an encouraging sign for retailers in the top-end of the country."

“And I’m pleased to say at the other end of the country, we can see confidence returning to Tasmania after the State election in March.”

Monthly retail growth (April 2018 – May 2018 seasonally adjusted) 

Department stores (3.87%), Other retailing (-0.09%), Food retailing (0.29%), Clothing, footwear and personal accessory retailing (2.23%), Cafes, restaurants and takeaway food services (-0.99%) and Household goods retailing (0.06%).

Tasmania (1.51%), South Australia (1.13%), New South Wales (0.51%), Queensland (0.43%), Northern Territory (0.41%), Victoria (0.23%), Australian Capital Territory (0.02%) and Western Australia (-0.45%).

Total sales (0.37%). 

Year-on-year retail growth (May 2017 – May 2018 seasonally adjusted)

Food retailing (3.71%), Clothing, footwear and personal accessory retailing (3.20%), Department stores (2.06%). Other retailing (1.58%), Cafes, restaurants and takeaway food services (1.44%) and Household goods retailing (1.12%). 

Northern Territory (4.27%), Tasmania (3.82%), Victoria (3.69%), New South Wales (2.86%), South Australia (2.35%), Australian Capital Territory (2.22%), Queensland (1.97%) and Western Australia (-0.74%).

Total sales (2.49%).

 

About the Australian Retailers Association:

Founded in 1903, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is Australia’s largest retail association, representing the country’s $310 billion sector, which employs more than 1.2 million people. As Australia’s leading retail peak industry body, the ARA is a strong pro-active advocate for Australian retail and works to ensure retail success by informing, protecting, advocating, educating and saving money for its 7,500 independent and national retail members throughout Australia. For more information, visit www.retail.org.au or call 1300 368 041.

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Are you ready for the 2018 Retail Realm?

THE Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is calling all retailers to put themselves forward to be recognised in the country’s largest and longest running national retail awards program, the 2018 eftpos ARA Australian Retail Awards.

This year’s awards titled, The Retail Realm: thinking outside the shop, will touch on every element in the retail sphere including customer experience, technology, payments, sustainability, supply chain, growth, employee development and corporate social responsibility.

Russell Zimmerman, ARA executive director, said the 2018 eftpos ARA Australian Retail Awards would celebrate the breadth of talent across the dynamic and ever-evolving retail landscape.

“Retail is an exceptionally important sector for the Australian economy, and this year’s event will be a great platform for progressive retailers to share their experiences inside and outside the shopfront to inspire future industry leaders to push the retail realm forward,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“As the largest private employer in the country, retail plays a vital role in the daily lives of all Australians and we would like to acknowledge these people who are the backbone of our society.”

With a myriad of Australian retailers eagerly anticipating the event on Thursday 18 October at the Myer Mural Hall in Melbourne, brands across the country are anticipating it to be the biggest and most noteworthy awards breakfast to date.

“This year, we have reimagined the awards and worked with industry experts to determine what constitutes the ‘best in retail’ across three categories - customer experience, retail workers and industry leaders,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“With 13 awards up for grabs, our panel of experts will be looking for exceptional retailers – from independently owner-operators, national brands, industry innovators and inspiring employees - who think beyond the shopfront.”

The 2018 eftpos ARA Australian Retail Awards echo the strength and diversity of Australian retail and the ARA are once again proud to acknowledge the achievement and talent of passionate retailers in the industry.

“Although retail is a vital part of the Australian economy, it’s important that we recognise the leaders and workers in retail through these awards as they are the heart and soul of the industry,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“As Australia’s leading retail peak industry body, the ARA continues to not only support the $310 billion sector but drive prosperity through its retail workers to ensure the longevity of Australian retail.”

The ARA encourage retailers of all sizes to submit an entry, or nominate an influential leader or instrumental employee before Friday 10 August via The 2018 eftpos ARA Retail Awards platform.

About the eftpos ARA Australian Retail Awards:

First held in the 1970s, the eftpos ARA Australian Retail Awards are the nation’s longest running and most prestigious retail event, recognising and rewarding outstanding retail businesses, innovations, and individuals across all sectors of retail. Relaunched in 2008, the annual 2018 eftpos ARA Australian Retail Awards breakfast will commence on Thursday 18 October at the Myer Mural Hall in Melbourne. For more information regarding the 2018 eftpos ARA Australian Retail Awards email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

About the Australian Retailers Association:

Founded in 1903, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is Australia’s largest retail association, representing the country’s $310 billion sector, which employs more than 1.2 million people. As Australia’s leading retail peak industry body, the ARA is a strong pro-active advocate for Australian retail and works to ensure retail success by informing, protecting, advocating, educating and saving money for its 7,500 independent and national retail members throughout Australia. For more information, visit www.retail.org.au or call 1300 368 041.

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ABFEO SME report 'on song' says IPA

THE Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) has commended the Affordable capital for SME growth report released on Friday (June 29) by the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO), saying it reinforces many of the sentiments held by the IPA.

“The IPA congratulates ASBFEO for its comprehensive report on the plight of SMEs who struggle to grow their businesses due to the lack of adequate capital, finance and support,” said IPA chief executive officer, Andrew Conway.

“The recommendations are very consistent with that contained in IPA’s Australian Small Business White Paper and these will be reiterated in the upcoming second edition.

“The next edition of the white paper, which incorporates new research conducted through the IPA Deakin SME Research Centre, will reinforce the access to finance problems that so many small businesses face every day.

“Australia must do everything in its power to support small business productivity and growth for the sake of our economy.

“Facts borne from the ASBFEO report such as small businesses’ 57 percent contribution to GDP and the employment of 7 million people says it all.

“Our research confirms that small business continues to have problems with access to finance and capital; critical elements to support healthy cash-flow that underpins growth opportunities.

“It is also pleasing that ASBFEO included a recommendation for a government guarantee scheme.  The IPA has long advocated for a state-backed loan guarantee scheme for small business since inclusion in our first white paper.

“Australia is one of the only countries in the developed world without such a scheme.  In our view, a loan guarantee scheme would help increase the availability of much-needed, affordable loan finance to the small business sector.

“A limited State-backed guarantee would encourage banks and other commercial lenders to increase loan finance available to small business at affordable rates.  Access to responsible and affordable finance will help many small businesses reinvest in their businesses and help create new ideas, new capacity and new jobs."

publicaccountants.org.au

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Joint statement from National Electrical and Communications Association and Master Electricians Australia

Alan Brown, President of the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA) and Tony Arnold, Chair Master Electricians Australia (MEA) have today released the following joint statement >>

A stronger and united voice for Australia's electrical contracting industry

For many years, the Australian electrical contracting industry has been represented by two organisations, the National Electrical Communications Association (NECA) and Master Electricians Australia (MEA).

Both organisations have worked tirelessly to advance the interests of their members and industry, to improve safety standards and statutory compliance for contractors, their employees, their customers, supply chain partners and the community.  Both organisations continue to provide services to their respective members, including technical support, training and business advice.

The organisations – through their members, Registered Training Organisations and Group Apprentice Schemes – also support the largest cohort of Electrical Apprentices in Australia.

In recent years it’s become clear that the industry would benefit from having a stronger and united voice as well as providing a more comprehensive suite of services to members. As a result, both NECA and MEA have listened to their respective memberships and have entered a memorandum of understanding.

This will allow the two organisations to collectively explore better ways to represent and be the single voice of a united industry.

These talks have been led by the two organisations’ national presidents – Alan Brown for NECA and Tony Arnold for MEA. The discussions to date have been focused on a single goal – to deliver a better deal for members. While the process is ongoing, there are a number of core principles guiding these discussions.

These principles include:

  • Keeping the best interests of all members at the absolute forefront of what we do;
  • Respecting the extensive history of both organisations;
  • Understanding the different needs and expectations of the two memberships;
  • Harnessing the power that combined advocacy to government would create;
  • Appreciating the high-quality staff employed by both organisations and their tireless commitment to serving members and the broader industry;
  • Providing the best possible deal for members, including the services and expertise of both organisations being made available to all members;
  • Providing the highest quality apprenticeship services to the industry;
  • Ensuring that the next generation of contractors is well represented; and
  • Recognising the huge opportunities in combined industry and networking events.

The final outcome of these discussions is still to be determined. However, there is considerable goodwill on both sides and we are confident that we can agree on a strong platform, and a united voice, all of which will result in a more prosperous and sustainable future for Australia’s electrical contracting industry. We will keep members informed as the discussions progress.

Whether you are currently a member of NECA or MEA - or both – you can be assured that this process will only strengthen your association and your industry. We look forward to a very bright future and working as one.

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Students go mining for careers at Mount Isa

STUDENTS from Brisbane to Queensland’s far north west will this week get up close and personal to mining careers when they attend an engineering camp in the iconic mining city of Mount Isa.

The would-be engineers will go onsite at Glencore’s Mount Isa Mine for the Make It Now in Engineering (MINE) challenge in which they’ll solve real-world problems.

They will be mentored and guided by Glencore staff, before presenting their project to senior Glencore mining professionals.

Meanwhile, local students from Mount Isa and Cloncurry schools interested in trades will work with Glencore apprentices who will help them to assemble a powered pushbike, using bike parts rescued from the dump.

The event will take place at the Spinifex College Trade Training centre where they’ll work in a simulated mine-site environment.

The bikes will be judged by Glencore Management and a winner selected based on criteria such as safety, design and attention to detail.

The camps, run annually by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) encourage students to consider science technology engineering and maths (STEM) related occupations and trade careers.

Manager of human resources for Glencore’s North Queensland operations Leanne Ryder said the company was very proud to support local kids to engage in STEM subjects through such an innovative program.

“These camps are highly regarded by Glencore as we know a high proportion of students who attend end up on STEM or trade career pathways,” Ms Ryder said.

“This program is really important in not only demonstrating the kind of careers kids can pursue in resources, but also in equipping the next generation of technical specialists with the skills they need to drive and grow the sector, which plays such a critical role in the health of our nation’s economy.”

The QMEA is a partnership between the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and the Queensland Government under its Gateway to Industry Schools program. It has 46 schools throughout Queensland.

QRC is the peak representative body for Queensland ‘s resource sector. The Queensland resources sector provides one in every $6 dollars in the Queensland economy, sustains one in eight Queensland jobs, and supports more than 16,400 businesses across the state, all from 0.1 percent of Queensland’s land mass.

www.qrc.org.au

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