THE House Agriculture and Water Resources committee will hold a public hearing in Canberra on Thursday, 1 June for its inquiry into water use efficiency in Australian agriculture.

The Committee will hear from the Murray-Darling Basin Authority.

Public hearing details: 12:15pm - 1:30pm, Thursday 1 June, Committee Room 1R2, Parliament House

The hearing will be broadcast live in audio format at aph.gov.au/live

Interested members of the public may wish to track the committee via the website.

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THE Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) has voiced its support for the small business ombudsman’s warning to the big four banks in relation to their responsibilities under unfair contracts legislation.

“While the IPA was pleased with the passing of unfair contract legislation which has been in place since November last year, much work is required to enforce current practices which still see unfair clauses in contracts with small business,” said IPA chief executive officer, Andrew Conway.

“Our advice to any small business, that is uncertain or feels that a contract that they are entering contains unfair terms, is see your public accountant.

“Similarly, we are urging our members to speak to their small business clients and businesses to review all contracts, including those with banks and other lending institutions,” said Mr Conway.

Contracts can relate to the supply or hire of goods, services or financial products.  Examples of contract terms that may be found to be unfair include terms that allow one party at their discretion to change the fees being paid or to change terms and conditions without telling the other party; terms that allow one party to terminate the contract but not the other party; or terms that penalise one party for breaching or terminating the agreement but not the other party. 

“Quite often in these scenarios, one party has greater bargaining power than the other, and it is a case of ‘take it or leave it’, whether you are dealing with a bank or your local gym,” said Mr Conway

publicaccountants.org.au

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THE House of Representatives Environment and Energy Committee will hear from Energy Networks Australia on Thursday at a public hearing for the inquiry into modernising Australia’s electricity grid.

The Chair of the Committee, Andrew Broad MP, said the Committee was looking forward to hearing about the changing role of transmission and distribution networks in the grid.

“The Committee is keen to hear how network businesses are adapting to the transition underway in the electricity system, and whether further changes are required to ensure that the system can deliver secure, affordable, and sustainable electricity into the future,” Mr Broad said.

The Deputy Chair of the Committee, Mr Pat Conroy MP, said the Committee would also be interested in hearing about the potential for transmission and distribution networks to reduce costs for consumers.

“The Committee is aware that network costs make up about half of the average electricity bill. The hearing is an opportunity for the Committee to discuss how a modern grid can achieve better outcomes for households and businesses,” Mr Conroy said.

As part of the inquiry, the Committee is encouraging members of the community to share their views on the electricity system via an online questionnaire.

Further information about the inquiry, including a submission from Energy Networks Australia, is available on the inquiry website, at www.aph.gov.au/moderngrid.

Public hearing details: 10:00 am – 10:45 am, Thursday 1 June 2017, Parliament House, Canberra

The hearing will be broadcast live at aph.gov.au/live

Interested members of the public may wish to track the committee via the website.

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THE House of Representatives Standing Committee on the Environment and Energy will hear from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) at a public hearing on Friday for the inquiry into modernising Australia’s electricity grid.

The Chair of the Committee, Andrew Broad MP, said the Committee was looking forward to hearing from Ms Audrey Zibelman, who started as the Chief Executive Officer of AEMO in March after heading up the New York State Public Service Commission.

“As the market operator, AEMO has a central role in maintaining the security of the electricity system. The Committee is keen to hear how AEMO is approaching the task of managing the grid as the generation mix changes and as consumers become more active participants in the system.”

“The Committee is also looking forward to hearing from Ms Zibelman about her experience in the United States, and about whether this could inform Australia’s approach to modernising the grid,” Mr Broad said.

The Deputy Chair of the Committee, Mr Pat Conroy MP, said the Committee would also be hearing from government entities with important roles in managing the transition underway in Australia’s electricity system, including  making and enforcing  the rules in the National Electricity Market, and supporting the development of renewable energy.

“It is clear that the pace of change in the electricity sector is unprecedented, and this brings with it a range of challenges for regulators. The Committee will discuss how governing frameworks can adapt more quickly to the changes in the sector, and how a modern grid can deliver better outcomes for consumers,” Mr Conroy said.

As part of the inquiry, the Committee is encouraging members of the community to share their views on the electricity system via an online questionnaire.

Further information about the inquiry, including submissions from the organisations appearing at the hearing, are available on the inquiry website, at www.aph.gov.au/moderngrid.

Public hearing details: 8:30 am – 11:30 am, Friday 26 May 2017, Parliament House, Canberra

8.30 am – 9.00 am: Clean Energy Finance Corporation
9.00 am – 9.30 am: Australian Renewable Energy Agency
9.30 am – 10.00 am: Australian Energy Regulator
10.00 am – 10.30 am: Australian Energy Market Commission
10.30 am – 11.30 am: Australian Energy Market Operator
11.30 am: Close

The hearing will be broadcast live at aph.gov.au/live

Interested members of the public may wish to track the committee via the website. 

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THE Turnbull  Government has today released terms of reference for a review into Australian  and children's screen content.

SMART intervention based on the latest technology and big data will help to overcome the challenges of density, population and traffic resulting from growing urbanisation, according to a global authority on digitally transformation and the application of smart city thinking.

Governor Martin O’Malley, a former Governor of the US state of Maryland and mayor of Baltimore, now chairs the advisory board of MetroLab Network, a White House backed alliance of cities and universities working on urban innovation.

Under Governor O’Malley’s leadership from 2007 to 2015, Maryland was transformed from one of the poorest performing US states to one of the strongest with the recovery of all of the jobs lost during the Global Financial Crisis.

On Wednesday 31^st May, Governor O’Malley will address students at the University of Sydney School Of Business, on the key elements of smart city planning and their implementation across industries and businesses.

The address, a part of the Business School’s Leadership and Policy Seminar Series, will be Governor O’Malley’s only public appearance during his Australian visit sponsored by Esri Australia, which provides location intelligence based on Geographic Information Systems.

Event Details

Date:               Wednesday 31^st May 2017

Time:              11.30 AM to 12.30 Noon

Venue:            Learning Studio 3100, 3^rd Floor

University of Sydney Business School

Cnr Codrington and Abercrombie Streets, Darlington

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FORMER Whole Foods Market Co-CEO Walter Robb leads a discussion in Sydney next week, on how conscious capitalism creates thriving businesses, and flourishing communities.

Mr Robb led with this philosophy, as he helped the retail grocer to unprecedented growth - rising from 12 stores to 464, across three countries.

The principle of conscious capitalism is about instilling your business with a purpose, and thinking beyond your organisation and making decisions based on the community, employees and all stakeholders.

Walter Robb will headline Day Two of Business Forum 2017, which is being run by Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand. 

“I think purpose is the ultimate why question. Both for an individual and a company, it gets to the heart of why you’re even here,” said Mr Robb.

The forum is looking at the business case for Purpose Beyond Profit and will be a gathering of leaders in innovation, disruption and change.

Jeana Abbott, CA ANZ’s Head of Education, said, “just like technology, business is evolving and the sole purpose of an organisation needs to be about more than just profit.

“In this changing environment, many businesses struggle to survive if they don’t connect with their communities.

“This forum is bringing together leaders from around the world to discuss how you make that connection happen.

“It’s about coming up with a model which serves your business, your community, employees, and investors.”

The conversation will also be led by Brazil-based President of Semco, Ricardo Semler, who’s become famous for restructuring relationships with staff, to empower employees and drive performance.

Organisational development consultant and author, Zach Mercurio, will explain why it’s important to clarify, develop and instill a purpose within your business.

Simon Griffiths, social entrepreneur and founder of Who Gives A Crap, will detail the ten lessons learnt from purpose-driven product implementation.

Hundreds are expected to attend the two-day forum which will be held in Sydney on June 5 and 6, and in Auckland on June 8 and 9.

For more information on the full list of speakers, and package prices, visit charteredaccountantsanz.com/businessforum. Join the conversation #businessforum17.

Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand represents 119,000 financial professionals.

Visit charteredaccountantsanz.com/businessforum.

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GOLD COAST - The 29^th Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show opened its gates today, promising to dazzle, delight, inform, entertain and above all showcase the many different aspects of the on-water lifestyle.

Exhibitors are hailing the first day as the “best in a decade” with a renewed confidence, increased numbers and sales to match.

Running until Sunday, May 28, the southern hemisphere’s premier marine event has attracted 300 exhibitors, with boats and products on show worth more than $200 million, as well as major global, Australian and Queensland debuts by the world’s most respected brands and businesses.

Leigh-Smith Yachts is toasting its first sale of the show, selling a new Alaska 47 Sedan, an exceptional $1.1 million motor yacht, to a local buyer eager to get out on the water.

“The show has got off to a great start,” said dealer principal, Dean Leigh-Smith. “The crowds have been steady and great quality. The new Fairline Targa has been popular with two formal quotations away today too. We are thrilled.”

In the Marine Village, Jeff McNiven from JSW Powersports said they too have had “the best first day ever”.

“We have sold five Seadoos and taken a deposit on a Malibu this morning. Generally, on a Thursday we don’t do a lot, we build momentum. We have had a really good start. It’s been a busy day. Good weather and it’s going to hold for us, so things are looking great.”

Near the Main Pavilion, Diana Orsmond from RIB Force Inflatables, representing Aurora and Caribbean RIBS said “the first day has been absolutely great and even though it’s traditionally a trade day, we have sold eight smaller models and gathered very strong leads.”

Dylan Lopez, dealer at Sirocco Marine North reported the sale of a 2.4m Sirocco RIB as a catamaran tender and a BRIG Eagle 650. Then there’s the sale of a BRIG Falcon 4.2m with custom colour upgrade in carbon black.

“We have had a great response on the launch of the Sealegs 7.7m D-Tube, and have already scheduled in three sea trials for next week. Between Monday and today we have accumulated about 20 solid leads, which is awesome. We have had several expressions of interest from visitors from Perth, Melbourne and Sydney, which proves the show is truly a national attraction. For the first day, conditions are the best in the past 10 years.”

“The CEO and founder of Sealegs, David McKee-Wright and co-founder Maurice Byham came to SCIBS, proving the appeal of this international event.”

Ross Brain representing Walker Bay Boats Australia said the opening day of SCIBS 2017 “is really impressive”.

“We have sold four Airis brand kayaks and SUPS, three dinghies and a Honda engine, plus about a dozen FeelFree waterproof bags. For day 1 we are pretty happy. There are definitely more people through this year.”

Gordon Triplett from Garmin is exhibiting in the Main Pavilion and said he believes they have sold around 30 to 40 packages via the dealers so far and is feeling confident it will be a bumper show for the electronics brand in terms of leads and sales.

Also in the Main Pavilion, Ultra Marine said they are having “great success” and can’t wait for the next three days. “We have done 12 to 15 sales on some of the new products,” said Fabien Vignes. “Boat linen, tableware, accessories for the galley. It has been a great response so far.”

Mark Richards, Palm Beach Motor Yachts and Grand Banks, said for a first day, “it’s absolutely fantastic.”

“We had a lot of pre-arranged appointments for the GB60 and PM65, but we have been constant all day. We are big supporters of SCIBS – it’s always a fantastic show for us. It’s been a great start. No complaints from us.”

From Maritimo, Greg Haines said it was a bumper start, with plenty of Maritmo owners and clients coming through the display and Maritimo HQ on the marina.

“We have seen a lot of international clients so far – plenty from NZ and more coming from Singapore over the weekend. A lot of new blood too, which is great!”

He said the M59 and Australian launch of the S59 have been well received. “People say they look superb. They love the new sunroof on the S59, and the third cabin with side-by-side berths. The helm is brilliant and very ergonomic.”

John Cowpe from TMG represents Lagoon catamarans. The Australian debut of the Lagoon 630MY has been a massive success so far, with the team reporting they are “flat out with well qualified visitors”.

“I have not had a break all day,” said a contented John Cowpe. “At every boat show, you hope to attract real people and today, we have been overwhelmed with strong leads. People have been waiting a long time to see this boat and they are really positive about it. I think we will sell a few boats this year.”

Also on show through TMG is the Lagoon 42, for sale and immediate delivery at SCIBS. “I am very impressed with the quality of the people through so far.”

Whitehaven Motor Yachts’ Ryan Hanson said there has been great interest in the new 6000 Flybridge. “For the first day, it has been busy all day. We are very happy indeed.”

Integrity Motor Yachts has nearly closed a deal on the first day of the show, the first of many it’s hoped by owner, Brett Flanagan. “We have seen a really high volume of people through today, traditionally a trade day. It’s even better than previous years. Everybody’s happy, the weather is cracking! It’s as good as it can be!”

Northside Marine’s David Choveaux said like every year, this SCIBS was starting out positively. “SCIBS never disappoints. We have sold a $200,000 Stabicraft 2750 centrecab. We have had really good leads and enquiries especially for the Whittley range and the Jeanneau NC9, which is on display on water.”

Brad Roberts from QMC said the quality of people for the first day has been great. They sold a SeaRay 21-foot bowrider and have enjoyed many more leads on other models. “We also have the bigger Boston Whalers down on the water and we are hoping for at least one sale a day. We have had a lot of good quality enquiry from interstate and people flying up here to see them, touch and feel the boats for themselves, which is what it’s all about,” said Brad.

Steve Ackerie from Stefan Boating World said the launch of the timeshare concept has proven very popular, “we have 10 recorded, which is exciting”.

“We have somebody interested in the 21-foot Fibraforte and the Reflex, a very high quality boat for a reasonable price. We have very high hopes for a great show.”

Visitors to SCIBS will enjoy a vast array of gear and gadgets designed to improve efficiency, safety and the on-water experience, and a diverse fleet of watercraft – from stand-up paddleboards and high-performance jet skis, to sports boats, cruising motor yachts and sailing boats – as well as incredible displays of lifestyle products, equipment and destinations to whet your appetite for travel.

According to SCIBS General Manager Johan Hasser, industry sentiment remains strong with positive reports across all segments.

“All exhibitors are bringing their best products to SCIBS, aiming to capitalise on the excellent format and visitor quality as people prepare their boats, upgrades and gear ahead of summer,” he said.

Internationally renowned as the event where the marine business does business, SCIBS 2017 will present the International Business Lounge, where industry movers and shakers can talk business, network or relax in superb style and comfort; and the Top Deck VIP Lounge where guests can enjoy the ultimate boat show experience in a fully catered private retreat.

SCIBS offers free park ‘n’ ride services from Warner Bros. Movie World, along with limited on-site parking, available pre-paid only.

Tickets for the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show are now on sale at www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

2017 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show

Dates:  May 25 to 28, 2017

Location: The Marine Village, Sanctuary Cove

Cost: A range of ticket options starting at $15

Details: www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au