http://bigpondnews.com/rssfeed/Finance/NationalBusiness Latest National Business articles. en Fri, 25 May 2012 14:35:49 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/25/Unions_NSW_to_front_WorkCover_inquiry_753964.html Unions NSW will tell an inquiry the state government is exaggerating WorkCover's financial difficulties. Fri, 25 May 2012 03:37:27 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/25/Unions_NSW_to_front_WorkCover_inquiry_753964.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/25/Quicker_Aust_visas_to_lure_rich_migrants_753911.html Wealthy businesspeople are to be offered quicker pathway to residency visas as part of a new govt scheme. Fri, 25 May 2012 02:13:59 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/25/Quicker_Aust_visas_to_lure_rich_migrants_753911.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/25/ASIO_defends_its_glass_palace_753921.html ASIO says its new headquarters in Canberra is not at risk of being spied upon, despite the glass structure. Fri, 25 May 2012 01:52:57 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/25/ASIO_defends_its_glass_palace_753921.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/25/Hewlett-Packard_to_announce_Aussie_cuts_753920.html Thousands of Australian employees of Hewlett-Packard are waiting to hear if their jobs are safe. Fri, 25 May 2012 01:52:55 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/25/Hewlett-Packard_to_announce_Aussie_cuts_753920.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/25/School_bullies_to_suffer_in_job_market_753916.html Schoolyard bullies might have trouble finding a job when they leave school under a new NSW scheme. Fri, 25 May 2012 01:52:40 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/25/School_bullies_to_suffer_in_job_market_753916.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/25/Govt_should_intervene_to_stop_job_rot_753914.html A union boss will ask the federal govt to intervene in a bid to stop mines and smelters from closing. Fri, 25 May 2012 01:52:36 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/25/Govt_should_intervene_to_stop_job_rot_753914.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/25/NSW_WorkCover_woes_exaggerated_Unions_753913.html UnionsNSW will tell a parliamentary inquiry that claims the WorkCover scheme is in crisis are a smokescreen. Fri, 25 May 2012 01:52:34 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/25/NSW_WorkCover_woes_exaggerated_Unions_753913.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/EU_crisis_a_storm_in_a_teacup_-Forrest_753731.html Mining magnate Andrew Forrest has dismissed the European debt crisis as a 'storm in a tea-cup'. Thu, 24 May 2012 09:49:09 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/EU_crisis_a_storm_in_a_teacup_-Forrest_753731.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/Rio_continues_to_expand_iron_business_753726.html Rio Tinto is pressing ahead with expanding its robust iron ore business despite concerns of China's slowdown Thu, 24 May 2012 09:48:30 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/Rio_continues_to_expand_iron_business_753726.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/AGL_buys_brown_coal_power_station_753734.html The ACCC has approved AGL Energy's takeover of the coal fired Loy Yang power station. Thu, 24 May 2012 09:23:11 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/AGL_buys_brown_coal_power_station_753734.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/Foxtel_completes_Austar_takeover_753715.html Foxtel has confirmed it has completed the process of its $2 billion takeover of regional counterpart Austar. Thu, 24 May 2012 08:47:48 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/Foxtel_completes_Austar_takeover_753715.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/Origins_LNG_project_secures_A87b_loan_753710.html The Australia Pacific LNG joint venture has secured $A8.71 billion in funding for its LNG project in Qld. Thu, 24 May 2012 08:43:41 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/Origins_LNG_project_secures_A87b_loan_753710.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/Resources_investment_hits_record_261bn_753708.html Committed investment in the resources sector has reached a record $261 billion. Thu, 24 May 2012 08:38:02 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/Resources_investment_hits_record_261bn_753708.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/Strikes_costing_Qld_50_million-_Seeney_753705.html Ongoing industrial action at Qld coal mines has cost more than $50 million, deputy premier Jeff Seeney says. Thu, 24 May 2012 08:33:57 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/Strikes_costing_Qld_50_million-_Seeney_753705.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/Carbon_tax_no_link_to_smelter_closure_753703.html The closure of a NSW aluminium smelter can't be linked to the carbon tax, a union boss says. Thu, 24 May 2012 08:31:14 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/24/Carbon_tax_no_link_to_smelter_closure_753703.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Future_fund_boss_operates_out_of_bank_753419.html New Future Fund chairman David Gonski has retained his office in a South African-owned investment bank. Wed, 23 May 2012 13:35:14 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Future_fund_boss_operates_out_of_bank_753419.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Bank_probed_over_Facebook_shares_753417.html Regulators are probing Morgan Stanley over a negative report before Facebook's stock market debut. Wed, 23 May 2012 13:32:25 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Bank_probed_over_Facebook_shares_753417.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Rinehart_overlooked_for_Fairfax_board_753413.html The world's richest woman Gina Rinehart has been overlooked for a Fairfax Media board seat. Wed, 23 May 2012 13:17:02 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Rinehart_overlooked_for_Fairfax_board_753413.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Myer_to_generate_300_million_online_753411.html Myer thinks it can generate $300m in online sales as women and young people head to the store's website. Wed, 23 May 2012 13:13:39 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Myer_to_generate_300_million_online_753411.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Penny_Wong_sticks_by_jobless_forecasts_753395.html Finance Minister Penny Wong is standing by the federal government's jobless forecasts in the budget. Wed, 23 May 2012 10:39:06 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Penny_Wong_sticks_by_jobless_forecasts_753395.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Growth_outlook_weak_Westpac_survey_753387.html The outlook for economic growth has improved, but it's still below average. Wed, 23 May 2012 10:26:45 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Growth_outlook_weak_Westpac_survey_753387.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Smelter_closure_not_due_to_carbon_tax_753391.html Greg Combet has rejected claims the carbon tax is responsible for an aluminium smelter closure. Wed, 23 May 2012 10:26:40 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Smelter_closure_not_due_to_carbon_tax_753391.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Qld_coal_miners_set_to_strike_again_753348.html More strike action by central Queensland coal miners is expected to hurt the BHP-Mitsubishi Alliance. Wed, 23 May 2012 07:27:06 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Qld_coal_miners_set_to_strike_again_753348.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Qantas_Jetstar_cut_NT_services_753337.html Qantas and Jetstar will cut the number of flights arriving at Darwin and Uluru because of poor patronage. Wed, 23 May 2012 06:41:17 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Qantas_Jetstar_cut_NT_services_753337.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/More_delays_in_Brambles_Recall_sale_753333.html Brambles says the sale of its data management business continues to take longer than expected. Wed, 23 May 2012 06:38:46 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/More_delays_in_Brambles_Recall_sale_753333.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/China_slowdown_threatens_Aust-World_Bank_753331.html The World Bank says Australia could be at risk as Europe's debt crisis threatens China's export markets. Wed, 23 May 2012 06:36:52 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/China_slowdown_threatens_Aust-World_Bank_753331.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Bank_of_Japan_keeps_rate_unchanged_753329.html The Bank of Japan kept its key interest rate unchanged at between zero and 0.1 per cent. Wed, 23 May 2012 06:33:14 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Bank_of_Japan_keeps_rate_unchanged_753329.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Pull_banks_into_line_on_rates_Howes_753154.html High-profile union leader Paul Howes has called for tougher regulation of Australia's banks. Tue, 22 May 2012 20:41:26 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/23/Pull_banks_into_line_on_rates_Howes_753154.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Barclays_to_sell_6bn_BlackRock_stake_752883.html Barclays Bank says it intends to dispose of its entire 19.6 per cent stake in the US asset BlackRock. Tue, 22 May 2012 07:30:07 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Barclays_to_sell_6bn_BlackRock_stake_752883.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/BMA_mining_dispute_hits_new_low_752957.html The dispute between unions and miner BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance in central Qld mines could escalate. Tue, 22 May 2012 07:19:23 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/BMA_mining_dispute_hits_new_low_752957.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Work_to_resume_at_TEMCO_plant_in_Tas_752950.html There will be no immediate job losses at the Tas BHP TEMCO plant after a decision to restart the operation. Tue, 22 May 2012 07:09:43 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Work_to_resume_at_TEMCO_plant_in_Tas_752950.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Boral_CEO_steps_down_shares_slip_752948.html Shares in building products maker Boral are down after chief executive Mark Selway stood down. Tue, 22 May 2012 07:06:31 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Boral_CEO_steps_down_shares_slip_752948.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Fonterra_cuts_forecast_milk_price_by_30c_752945.html Fonterra has cut its forecast 2012 milk price and flagged lower payments in 2013. Tue, 22 May 2012 07:03:46 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Fonterra_cuts_forecast_milk_price_by_30c_752945.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/SMEs_could_miss_opportunties_in_2012_752943.html Small business is missing out on investment opportunities as they worry about the wider global outlook. Tue, 22 May 2012 06:59:40 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/SMEs_could_miss_opportunties_in_2012_752943.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Difficult_conditions_ahead_for_SMEs_752941.html Small businesses' confidence is being hit by the European crisis, politics and the carbon tax. Tue, 22 May 2012 06:57:03 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Difficult_conditions_ahead_for_SMEs_752941.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Banks_should_mirror_RBA_rates_-_Howes_752909.html Trade union boss Paul Howes says financial institutions should be forced to mirror official interest rates. Tue, 22 May 2012 06:08:25 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Banks_should_mirror_RBA_rates_-_Howes_752909.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Qantas_to_become_two_companies_752905.html Qantas is splitting in two - an international and a national business - to better meet industry challenges. Tue, 22 May 2012 05:11:55 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Qantas_to_become_two_companies_752905.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/GrainCorp_shares_jump_on_new_forecast_752903.html GrainCorp have upgraded its full year profit forecast after a bumper crop lifted first half profits by 50pc. Tue, 22 May 2012 05:09:17 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/GrainCorp_shares_jump_on_new_forecast_752903.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Leighton_set_for_400m-450m_FY_profit_752802.html Construction giant Leighton Holdings is sticking to its full year profit forecast of between $400m-$450m. Tue, 22 May 2012 01:02:37 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Leighton_set_for_400m-450m_FY_profit_752802.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Give_more_Afghan_cash_PM_tells_leaders_752722.html The PM has used a major NATO summit to call on world leaders to stump up the cash needed to support Afghan. Mon, 21 May 2012 21:36:28 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/22/Give_more_Afghan_cash_PM_tells_leaders_752722.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/WA_uranium_mine_approved_by_EPA_752587.html WA's first uranium mine is a step closer to being built but opponents say the proposal is not a done deal. Mon, 21 May 2012 09:42:26 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/WA_uranium_mine_approved_by_EPA_752587.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Toro_tipped_for_WAs_first_uranium_mine_752552.html Western Australia could be a step closer to getting its first uranium mine. Mon, 21 May 2012 08:05:51 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Toro_tipped_for_WAs_first_uranium_mine_752552.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/James_Hardie_aims_for_Aust_market_share_752550.html James Hardie fears Australia's soft housing market will be a drag on the company's earnings this year. Mon, 21 May 2012 08:02:57 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/James_Hardie_aims_for_Aust_market_share_752550.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Aust_Malaysia_to_sign_free_trade_deal_752544.html Trade Minister Craig Emerson heads to Malaysia to sign a new free trade agreement. Mon, 21 May 2012 07:35:57 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Aust_Malaysia_to_sign_free_trade_deal_752544.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Qantas_calls_on_unions_to_back_job_cuts_752522.html Qantas CEO Alan Joyce has called on unions to back the airline's plan to axe 500 engineering jobs. Mon, 21 May 2012 06:59:33 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Qantas_calls_on_unions_to_back_job_cuts_752522.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Orica_announces_ammonium_nitrate_plant_752511.html Orica has announced it will build an $A815.87 million ammonium nitrate plant in Western Australia. Mon, 21 May 2012 06:25:12 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Orica_announces_ammonium_nitrate_plant_752511.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Elders_returns_to_profit_in_first_half_752509.html Elders has returned to profitability, boosted by a large tax win. Mon, 21 May 2012 06:22:10 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Elders_returns_to_profit_in_first_half_752509.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Retravision_buyer_chooses_administrators_752502.html Over 100 Retravision stores in Victoria, NSW and Tasmania has gone into voluntary administration. Mon, 21 May 2012 05:21:20 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Retravision_buyer_chooses_administrators_752502.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Campbell_Bros_profit_continues_to_grow_752497.html Laboratory group Campbell Brothers' full year profit is up 68 per cent and the company expects more growth. Mon, 21 May 2012 05:15:55 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Campbell_Bros_profit_continues_to_grow_752497.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/PMP_shares_in_trading_halt_on_TMA_bid_752495.html Shares in PMP have been placed in a trading halt amid speculation that TMA is behind a bid for the company. Mon, 21 May 2012 05:13:45 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/PMP_shares_in_trading_halt_on_TMA_bid_752495.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Bond_prices_back_away_from_record_highs_752437.html The Aust bond market has opened the week slightly weaker following last week's record-breaking rallies. Mon, 21 May 2012 02:46:18 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Bond_prices_back_away_from_record_highs_752437.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Orica_to_build_plant_in_the_Pilbara_752401.html Orica is part of a joint venture that will build a $A815.87m ammonium nitrate plant in WA Pilbara region. Mon, 21 May 2012 01:34:05 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Orica_to_build_plant_in_the_Pilbara_752401.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Elders_posts_405m_first_half_profit_752398.html Agribusiness Elders has returned to profitability with a $40.5m profit in the six months in March. Mon, 21 May 2012 01:19:07 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Elders_posts_405m_first_half_profit_752398.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Australia_to_boost_Afghanistan_aid_752343.html Australia will boost its aid to Afghanistan as part of an agreement signed by the PM and her US counterpart. Sun, 20 May 2012 23:12:40 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Australia_to_boost_Afghanistan_aid_752343.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Workers_comp_to_cause_job_losses_752328.html A NSW business group says almost 13,000 jobs will be lost if workers compensation premiums are to increase. Sun, 20 May 2012 22:33:53 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Workers_comp_to_cause_job_losses_752328.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Thomson_will_ask_to_be_left_alone_752316.html A senior Labor figure says he expects embattled MP Craig Thomson to ask parliament to leave him alone. Sun, 20 May 2012 21:58:45 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Thomson_will_ask_to_be_left_alone_752316.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Strata_responsibilities_unclear_-_study_752265.html Residents and owners of strata titled homes in NSW need better support and clearer explanations - study. Sun, 20 May 2012 19:14:50 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/Strata_responsibilities_unclear_-_study_752265.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/More_than_400_jobs_to_go_at_Qantas_752262.html Qantas is expected to announce that more than 400 heavy maintenance jobs will be cut at Tullamarine Airport. Sun, 20 May 2012 19:09:37 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/21/More_than_400_jobs_to_go_at_Qantas_752262.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/Surplus_will_help_unemployed_-_Emerson_752210.html Craig Emerson has argued the unemployed will benefit from Labor returning the budget to surplus. Sun, 20 May 2012 11:41:25 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/Surplus_will_help_unemployed_-_Emerson_752210.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/Xenophon_supports_repealing_carbon_tax_752209.html Nick Xenophon has flagged supporting a repeal of the carbon tax if Tony Abbott wins the next election. Sun, 20 May 2012 11:41:23 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/Xenophon_supports_repealing_carbon_tax_752209.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/WA_moving_away_from_the_east-_Barnett_752208.html Colin Barnett says WA is drifting further from Canberra and the east in the face of falling GST revenue. Sun, 20 May 2012 11:41:21 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/WA_moving_away_from_the_east-_Barnett_752208.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/ACTU_to_push_for_26-a-week_pay_rise_752207.html The ACTU has urged Fair Work Australia to reject any push to offset a decent payrise for low-paid workers. Sun, 20 May 2012 11:41:20 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/ACTU_to_push_for_26-a-week_pay_rise_752207.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/Unions_launch_WorkCover_campaign_752206.html NSW Unions have launched a campaign opposing state government plans to clamp down on WorkCover payments. Sun, 20 May 2012 11:41:19 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/Unions_launch_WorkCover_campaign_752206.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/Govt_pulls_funding_from_gay_health_group_752115.html Qld's only health organisation dedicated to the gay and lesbian community has had its funding withdrawn. Sun, 20 May 2012 03:41:34 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/Govt_pulls_funding_from_gay_health_group_752115.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/NSW_premiers_entitlements_stripped_back_752113.html Retired NSW premiers are about to get less of the generous life entitlements they have previously enjoyed. Sun, 20 May 2012 03:40:58 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/NSW_premiers_entitlements_stripped_back_752113.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/CSR_expects_organic_growth_752111.html Building products supplier CSR Ltd expects growth to come from its existing businesses. Sun, 20 May 2012 03:39:18 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/CSR_expects_organic_growth_752111.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/Aust_share_market_to_open_flat_on_Monday_752107.html Aust share market is likely to open flat on Monday as markets continue to be affected by euro zone troubles. Sun, 20 May 2012 03:19:43 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/20/Aust_share_market_to_open_flat_on_Monday_752107.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/18/NZ_runaway_millionairess_found_guilty_751648.html A woman has been found guilty of charges relating to an $NZ10m ($A7.78m) banking overdraft error by Westpac. Fri, 18 May 2012 10:46:26 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/18/NZ_runaway_millionairess_found_guilty_751648.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/18/Gillard_talks_up_Australian_economy_751646.html Julia Gillard attended a ground-breaking ceremony in Darwin for a $34 billion LNG project by Japan's Inpex. Fri, 18 May 2012 10:46:24 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/18/Gillard_talks_up_Australian_economy_751646.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/18/Retravision_in_talks_over_financial_woes_751645.html Retravision is believed to be facing serious cashflow issues that have left some suppliers unpaid for stock. Fri, 18 May 2012 10:46:21 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/18/Retravision_in_talks_over_financial_woes_751645.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/18/Ten_negotiating_sale_of_Eye_Corp_751643.html Ten Network Holdings is negotiating the sale its outdoor advertising business Eye Corp. Fri, 18 May 2012 10:46:19 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/18/Ten_negotiating_sale_of_Eye_Corp_751643.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/18/Holden_announces_new_export_car_751404.html Holdens are to make a return to the US with the production of a new Chevrolet SS performance sedan. Thu, 17 May 2012 18:54:46 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/18/Holden_announces_new_export_car_751404.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/BHP_Billiton_backs_away_from_venture_751311.html BHP Billiton has withdrawn from its Alita prospecting joint venture following a drilling campaign review. Thu, 17 May 2012 09:35:32 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/BHP_Billiton_backs_away_from_venture_751311.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/SydAirport_reaffirms_guidance_751308.html Sydney Airport has reaffirmed distribution guidance at 21 cents per stapled security for calendar 2012. Thu, 17 May 2012 09:35:06 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/SydAirport_reaffirms_guidance_751308.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/Leighton_reviewing_disclosure_methods_751307.html Leighton Holdings has appointed independent consultants to review its disclosure procedures. Thu, 17 May 2012 09:35:04 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/Leighton_reviewing_disclosure_methods_751307.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/WA_surplus_to_hit_low_point_in_2012-13_751304.html The WA govt forecasts surpluses for the current and next four financial years but expects a dip in 2012/13. Thu, 17 May 2012 09:34:52 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/WA_surplus_to_hit_low_point_in_2012-13_751304.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/Australia_set_to_be_No_1_in_LNG-_Exxon_751303.html Exxon Mobil says Australia should be the world's biggest exporter of LNG by the end of the decade. Thu, 17 May 2012 09:34:49 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/Australia_set_to_be_No_1_in_LNG-_Exxon_751303.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/CBA_set_to_post_first_7b_bank_profit_751302.html Commonwealth Bank of Australia is on track to be the first of the big four to post a $7 billion FY profit. Thu, 17 May 2012 09:34:48 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/CBA_set_to_post_first_7b_bank_profit_751302.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/Star_keen_to_move_on_from_Vaikunta_saga_751301.html Sydney's Star casino has been cleared of any wrongdoing in handling the sacking of former boss Sid Vaikunta. Thu, 17 May 2012 09:34:42 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/Star_keen_to_move_on_from_Vaikunta_saga_751301.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/Casino_cleared_over_investigation_751168.html Star casino has been cleared of wrongdoing over its investigation of sexual harassment claims. Thu, 17 May 2012 01:38:18 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/Casino_cleared_over_investigation_751168.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/Holden_export_deal_to_be_unveiled_751136.html Holden is expected to unveil a new export program for the iconic Commodore. Thu, 17 May 2012 00:52:00 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/Holden_export_deal_to_be_unveiled_751136.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/IAG_to_review_its_UK_business_751135.html IAG has begun a strategic review of its business in the UK, possibly paving the way for its sale. Thu, 17 May 2012 00:51:58 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/IAG_to_review_its_UK_business_751135.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/CBA_posts_17b_quarterly_profit_751134.html Commonwealth Bank of Australia has posted a profit of $1.7 billion for the three months to March. Thu, 17 May 2012 00:51:55 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/17/CBA_posts_17b_quarterly_profit_751134.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Westfield_distribution_remains_unchanged_750970.html Westfield says its forecast distribution for the 2012 year remains unchanged as specialty store sales grew. Wed, 16 May 2012 09:24:06 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Westfield_distribution_remains_unchanged_750970.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Sonic_to_buy_Healthscope_assets_750974.html Sonic Healthcare says it will buy Healthscope's pathology businesses in the ACT and three Aust states. Wed, 16 May 2012 08:31:32 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Sonic_to_buy_Healthscope_assets_750974.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Milk_price_to_dip_as_production_rises_750973.html National milk production is the highest it has been for a decade. Wed, 16 May 2012 08:31:30 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Milk_price_to_dip_as_production_rises_750973.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Housing_recovery_hard_to_predict-CSR_750972.html CSR expects Australia's housing construction market to remain bleak for the foreseeable future. Wed, 16 May 2012 08:31:28 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Housing_recovery_hard_to_predict-CSR_750972.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/BHP_chairman_cuts_expenditure_outlook_750971.html BHP Billiton chairman Jacques Nasser says the global miner will not spend the $80bn on growth projects. Wed, 16 May 2012 08:31:27 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/BHP_chairman_cuts_expenditure_outlook_750971.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/SP_Ausnet_profit_boosted_750936.html SP AusNet's full year profit has risen to $253 million due partly to higher electricity prices. Wed, 16 May 2012 06:50:29 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/SP_Ausnet_profit_boosted_750936.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Casual_workers_need_more_rights-_ACTU_750943.html The ACTU plans to campaign for new laws to give casual workers more protection in job security. Wed, 16 May 2012 06:40:52 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Casual_workers_need_more_rights-_ACTU_750943.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Japan_to_pay_US44bn_for_WA_LNG_stake_750942.html Japan's government and several major firms are to buy a 10 per cent stake in an Aust natural gas field. Wed, 16 May 2012 06:40:50 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Japan_to_pay_US44bn_for_WA_LNG_stake_750942.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Gas_industry_told_to_act_defensively_750941.html The gas industry must not gouge its customers if it wants a credible voice in the Aust gas debate. Wed, 16 May 2012 06:40:47 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Gas_industry_told_to_act_defensively_750941.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Budget_to_hurt_small_firms-_Hockey_750940.html Shadow treasurer Joe Hockey says the federal budget has nothing to compensate small businesses. Wed, 16 May 2012 06:40:45 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Budget_to_hurt_small_firms-_Hockey_750940.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/NSW_govt_to_meet_with_Hilliers_750939.html NSW public housing projects are in question after the voluntary administration of St Hilliers Construction. Wed, 16 May 2012 06:40:43 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/NSW_govt_to_meet_with_Hilliers_750939.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Toll_shares_plunge_amid_earnings_gloom_750938.html Transport and logistics group Toll Holdings has warned of lower earnings in 2012 Wed, 16 May 2012 06:40:41 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Toll_shares_plunge_amid_earnings_gloom_750938.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Wages_sentiment_data_vindicate_rate_cut_750937.html Steady wages growth and stagnation in lending factor into the vindication of last week's interest rate cut. Wed, 16 May 2012 06:40:39 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Wages_sentiment_data_vindicate_rate_cut_750937.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Consumer_confidence_up_slightly_in_May_750864.html Consumer confidence has posted a modest rise after the RBA provided a large cut to the cash rate on May 1. Wed, 16 May 2012 03:11:07 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Consumer_confidence_up_slightly_in_May_750864.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Westfield_distribution_steady_on_sales_750843.html Shopping centre giant Westfield Group says its forecast distribution for the 2012 year remains unchanged. Wed, 16 May 2012 02:08:30 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Westfield_distribution_steady_on_sales_750843.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Gold_Coast_Airport_plan_approved_750805.html Federal Transport Minister Anthony Albanese says he has approved the Gold Coast Airport master plan. Tue, 15 May 2012 23:51:25 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Gold_Coast_Airport_plan_approved_750805.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/CSR_warns_of_glum_housing_market_750799.html Building products group CSR fears Australia's housing construction industry will remain in the doldrums. Tue, 15 May 2012 23:47:10 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/CSR_warns_of_glum_housing_market_750799.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Prison_builder_goes_into_liquidation_750797.html St Hilliers, the company building a $350 million expansion of a Victorian prison, has gone into liquidation. Tue, 15 May 2012 23:44:10 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Prison_builder_goes_into_liquidation_750797.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Mirabela_to_raise_120m_from_investors_750697.html Beleaguered miner Mirabela Nickel is seeking to raise as much as $120 million in capital from investors. Tue, 15 May 2012 19:33:57 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Mirabela_to_raise_120m_from_investors_750697.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Many_doing_it_tougher_than_ever_-_Salvos_750698.html New research has revealed that Australia's most marginalised are doing it tougher now than ever before. Tue, 15 May 2012 19:06:32 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Many_doing_it_tougher_than_ever_-_Salvos_750698.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Aust_could_be_a_capital_safe_haven_750692.html Former treasury secretary Ken Henry says Australia could turn into a safe haven for global capital. Tue, 15 May 2012 19:06:31 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Aust_could_be_a_capital_safe_haven_750692.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/ACTU_focuses_on_lack_of_job_security_750694.html The ACTU conference will spend its second day focusing on the lack of job security in Australia. Tue, 15 May 2012 19:06:31 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/ACTU_focuses_on_lack_of_job_security_750694.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Carbon_tax_compensation_set_to_flow_750691.html Compensation to cushion the impact of the carbon tax will start flowing to Australian families on Wednesday. Tue, 15 May 2012 19:06:30 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/16/Carbon_tax_compensation_set_to_flow_750691.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Tax_reform_still_on_the_cards-Swan_750608.html Treasurer Wayne Swan will reassure business that tax reform is still on the agenda. Tue, 15 May 2012 09:35:27 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Tax_reform_still_on_the_cards-Swan_750608.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/ANZ_to_invest_a_further_300m_in_China_750606.html ANZ will invest an additional $A300 million to support business growth in China. Tue, 15 May 2012 09:31:59 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/ANZ_to_invest_a_further_300m_in_China_750606.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/IMF_review_Aust_banking_system_750575.html IMF officials have arrived in Australia to have a good look at our banking system. Tue, 15 May 2012 08:10:30 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/IMF_review_Aust_banking_system_750575.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Retail_gloom_hits_Kresta_earnings_750541.html Blinds and curtains maker Kresta expects property sales to bring it back to profitability. Tue, 15 May 2012 06:19:36 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Retail_gloom_hits_Kresta_earnings_750541.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/No_hints_from_RBA_on_rate_cuts-economist_750536.html The minutes to the RBA's May board meeting provide no indication of further interest rate cuts. Tue, 15 May 2012 06:14:31 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/No_hints_from_RBA_on_rate_cuts-economist_750536.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Insurance_costs_rising_for_Suncorp_750533.html Suncorp's insurance costs for the financial year is currently $253 million above its expectations. Tue, 15 May 2012 06:09:30 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Insurance_costs_rising_for_Suncorp_750533.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Gunns_sells_hardwood_business_for_28m_750514.html Woodchipper Gunns has struck a deal to sell its hardwood sawn timber business for $28 million Tue, 15 May 2012 04:44:04 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Gunns_sells_hardwood_business_for_28m_750514.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/RBA_sets_scene_for_lower_rates_if_needed_750492.html The minutes of the latest RBA monetary policy meeting have left the door open for further rate cuts. Tue, 15 May 2012 03:16:21 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/RBA_sets_scene_for_lower_rates_if_needed_750492.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/750_rail_jobs_to_go_NSW_govt_confirms_750463.html NSW Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian has confirmed that 750 RailCorp jobs will be axed. Tue, 15 May 2012 01:50:42 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/750_rail_jobs_to_go_NSW_govt_confirms_750463.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Pac_Brands_says_no_takeover_for_now_750461.html Clothing and footwear maker Pacific Brands says a takeover is unlikely to happen in the near future. Tue, 15 May 2012 01:50:38 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Pac_Brands_says_no_takeover_for_now_750461.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Westpac_cuts_fixed_mortgage_rates_750460.html Westpac has cut its interest rates on its short term fixed rate home loans by up to 0.2 per cent. Tue, 15 May 2012 01:50:37 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Westpac_cuts_fixed_mortgage_rates_750460.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/CCA_expects_higher_underlying_profit_750459.html Coca-Cola Amatil says it expects a higher underlying profit in the first half of the 2012 calendar year. Tue, 15 May 2012 01:50:35 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/CCA_expects_higher_underlying_profit_750459.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Beef_farmers_seek_compo_over_export_ban_750368.html Beef producers are reportedly seeking hundreds of millions from the government in compensation. Mon, 14 May 2012 20:24:55 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Beef_farmers_seek_compo_over_export_ban_750368.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Mummy_and_Daddy_work_too_much_says_kids_750360.html New research shows many children feel their parents are working too much and it is impacting on family time. Mon, 14 May 2012 20:04:58 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Mummy_and_Daddy_work_too_much_says_kids_750360.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Women_not_on_Aust_CEOs_radar_-_report_750327.html More than two-thirds of Australia's CEOs say they have no plans to ensure females fill senior positions. Mon, 14 May 2012 19:18:58 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Women_not_on_Aust_CEOs_radar_-_report_750327.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/NSW_govt_to_cut_750_RailCorp_jobs_750312.html RailCorp jobs are expected to be cut as the NSW government begins an overhaul of Sydney's rail network. Mon, 14 May 2012 19:05:25 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/NSW_govt_to_cut_750_RailCorp_jobs_750312.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Australian_consumers_in_crisis_mode_750311.html A survey has found more than half of all Australians feel they have been affected the global downturn. Mon, 14 May 2012 19:05:25 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Australian_consumers_in_crisis_mode_750311.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Tax_reform_still_on_the_cards_says_Swan_750310.html Treasurer Wayne Swan will reassure business the government is still on the case to reform the tax system. Mon, 14 May 2012 19:05:24 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/15/Tax_reform_still_on_the_cards_says_Swan_750310.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/BHP_sticks_up_for_shale_play_750261.html BHP Billiton's petroleum boss Michael Yeager has defended the company's $20 billion foray into US shale gas. Mon, 14 May 2012 11:19:22 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/BHP_sticks_up_for_shale_play_750261.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/New_board_member_at_BHP_750259.html BHP Billiton has appointed the former head of global chemicals and energy company Sasol to its board. Mon, 14 May 2012 11:15:56 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/New_board_member_at_BHP_750259.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/Alesco_not_a_must-do_deal__DuluxGroup_750257.html DuluxGroup says its takeover bid for construction products supplier Alesco is not a 'must do' deal. Mon, 14 May 2012 11:08:44 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/Alesco_not_a_must-do_deal__DuluxGroup_750257.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/Incitec_Pivot_to_stick_with_fertilisers_750254.html Incitec Pivot says it has no plans to drop its fertiliser business despite its lower earnings Mon, 14 May 2012 11:00:49 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/Incitec_Pivot_to_stick_with_fertilisers_750254.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/Leighton_Lend_Lease_win_Vic_rail_work_750199.html Lend Lease and a Leighton Holdings subsidiary have been awarded work on Victoria's regional rail link. Mon, 14 May 2012 08:21:17 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/Leighton_Lend_Lease_win_Vic_rail_work_750199.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/NAB_to_raise_500m_through_debt_issue_750181.html National Australia Bank will raise up to $500 million by issuing subordinated notes to investors. Mon, 14 May 2012 07:03:32 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/NAB_to_raise_500m_through_debt_issue_750181.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/Aussie_dollar_falls_below_parity_750119.html The Australian dollar has fallen below parity with the US dollar for the first time in almost five months. Mon, 14 May 2012 03:05:32 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/Aussie_dollar_falls_below_parity_750119.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/Incitec_Pivot_profit_drops_13_750084.html Incitec Pivot's first half profit has dropped by 13 per cent due to lower earnings from fertilisers. Mon, 14 May 2012 00:49:06 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/Incitec_Pivot_profit_drops_13_750084.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/DuluxGroup_down_two_per_cent_750079.html DuluxGroup has reported a two per cent fall in first half net profit and says it expects it to be higher. Mon, 14 May 2012 00:40:21 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/DuluxGroup_down_two_per_cent_750079.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/Cabinet_to_finalise_living_cost_savings_750001.html Qld cabinet will meet to finalise cost-of-living legislation before the first sitting week of parliament. Sun, 13 May 2012 21:06:03 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/14/Cabinet_to_finalise_living_cost_savings_750001.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/13/Airlines_facing_battle_to_recruit_pilots_749917.html The aviation sector will require thousands of new pilots in the years ahead as more people are flying. Sun, 13 May 2012 12:53:49 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/13/Airlines_facing_battle_to_recruit_pilots_749917.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/13/Jobless_rate_budget_underly_economy_749911.html Treasurer Wayne Swan says a drop in the national jobless rate underlies the strength of the domestic economy Sun, 13 May 2012 11:56:04 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/13/Jobless_rate_budget_underly_economy_749911.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/13/Transport_police_blitz_services_749698.html NSW transport police have blitzed train, bus and ferry services overnight against anti-social behaviour. Sat, 12 May 2012 21:10:16 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/13/Transport_police_blitz_services_749698.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/13/1st_Fleet_owner_leaves_debts_for_US_749692.html The owner of collapsed trucking firm 1st Fleet has reportedly left Australia, leaving 1,000 out of work. Sat, 12 May 2012 21:00:42 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/13/1st_Fleet_owner_leaves_debts_for_US_749692.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/11/Robert_Nason_to_chair_Foxtel_board_749211.html Telstra Corporation has appointed senior executive Robert Nason as chairman of pay-tv provider Foxtel. Fri, 11 May 2012 02:29:21 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/11/Robert_Nason_to_chair_Foxtel_board_749211.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/11/Big_retailers_scrutinised_over_trucks_749061.html Retailers face scrutiny over safety after charges were filed against executives of four trucking companies. Thu, 10 May 2012 19:02:53 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/11/Big_retailers_scrutinised_over_trucks_749061.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/11/Production_to_cease_at_BHP_mine_749060.html Production will cease at BHP Billiton's loss-making Norwich Park coal mine in central Queensland. Thu, 10 May 2012 19:02:50 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/11/Production_to_cease_at_BHP_mine_749060.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/11/Desalination_lease_to_yield_300_million_749059.html A lessee has been found for Sydney's desalination plant in a deal that will deliver net proceeds of $300m. Thu, 10 May 2012 19:02:47 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/11/Desalination_lease_to_yield_300_million_749059.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/11/Paper_circulation_drops_in_March_qtr_749058.html The fall in newspaper sales has accelerated with a 5 per cent drop in circulation in the March quarter. Thu, 10 May 2012 19:02:45 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/11/Paper_circulation_drops_in_March_qtr_749058.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/11/Budget_changes_damage_faith_in_super_749057.html AMP chief economist Shane Oliver says the federal budget won't help Australia's economic growth. Thu, 10 May 2012 19:02:44 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/11/Budget_changes_damage_faith_in_super_749057.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/11/Coalition_about_wealth_creation_-_Abbott_749056.html The coalition's reply to Labor's Tuesday budget has promised wealth creation for all. Thu, 10 May 2012 19:02:41 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/11/Coalition_about_wealth_creation_-_Abbott_749056.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/10/Jobless_rate_49_per_cent_in_April_748844.html The jobless rate unexpectedly dropped to 4.9 per cent in April from 5.2 per cent the previous month. Thu, 10 May 2012 01:52:28 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/10/Jobless_rate_49_per_cent_in_April_748844.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/10/Optus_reports_787m_profit_after_tax_748823.html Optus has managed to lift its annual net profit by 1.5 per cent to $787 million. Thu, 10 May 2012 00:20:35 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/10/Optus_reports_787m_profit_after_tax_748823.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/10/NAB_first_half_profit_down_to_205b_748822.html NAB first half profit fell 15.5 per cent to $2.05 billion due to its underperforming operations in the UK. Thu, 10 May 2012 00:20:34 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/10/NAB_first_half_profit_down_to_205b_748822.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/10/Rinehart_children_can_access_trust_748816.html Gina Rinehart has brought forward the vesting date of a family trust that is the subject of a legal battle. Thu, 10 May 2012 00:20:27 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/10/Rinehart_children_can_access_trust_748816.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/10/Unemployment_rate_to_rise_economists_748815.html Economists say Australia's unemployment rate is likely to have risen in April. Thu, 10 May 2012 00:20:26 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/10/Unemployment_rate_to_rise_economists_748815.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Budget_falls_short_for_retailers_748490.html The Australia Retailers Association says retailers will suffer from the scrapping of a company tax cut. Tue, 08 May 2012 23:47:48 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Budget_falls_short_for_retailers_748490.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Surplus_a_challenge_for_govt_says_BCA_748487.html The Business Council of Australia says delivering the forecast budget surplus will challenge the government. Tue, 08 May 2012 23:47:42 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Surplus_a_challenge_for_govt_says_BCA_748487.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Fed_budget_has_abandoned_companies_748486.html The Tax Institute says Australian companies have been abandoned by the federal government in the budget. Tue, 08 May 2012 23:47:40 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Fed_budget_has_abandoned_companies_748486.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/AI_Group_chief_says_budget_is_harsh_748485.html AI Group chief Innes Willox says the decision to scrap the corporate tax cut is a major blow to business. Tue, 08 May 2012 23:47:39 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/AI_Group_chief_says_budget_is_harsh_748485.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Tax_cuts_for_rivals_of_major_banks_748484.html Small lenders have received tax cuts in the budget aimed at increasing competition in the banking sector. Tue, 08 May 2012 23:47:38 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Tax_cuts_for_rivals_of_major_banks_748484.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Oppn_promises_a_surplus_10x_Labors_748483.html Opposition finance spokesman Andrew Robb says a coalition govt would aim deliver a surplus worth 1% of GDP. Tue, 08 May 2012 23:47:37 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Oppn_promises_a_surplus_10x_Labors_748483.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/CBA_cuts_fixed_rate_home_loans_748482.html CBA is cutting its one- and three-year fixed rate home loans, but not by the full RBA 50-basis-point cut. Tue, 08 May 2012 23:47:35 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/CBA_cuts_fixed_rate_home_loans_748482.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Business_confused_by_budget_-_Hockey_748481.html Shadow treasurer Joe Hockey says the business community is confused by mixed signals in the federal budget. Tue, 08 May 2012 23:47:34 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Business_confused_by_budget_-_Hockey_748481.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Government_debt_is_tiny_says_Wong_748480.html Finance Minister Penny Wong says the size of Australia's net debt is 'tiny' by international standards. Tue, 08 May 2012 23:47:33 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Government_debt_is_tiny_says_Wong_748480.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/PM_determined_to_cut_company_tax_748479.html Prime Minister Julia Gillard says she remains determined to deliver a company tax cut. Tue, 08 May 2012 23:47:31 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/PM_determined_to_cut_company_tax_748479.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Swan_defends_axing_of_company_tax_cut_748478.html Wayne Swan says the government gave up on a company tax cut because it wouldn't have passed the parliament. Tue, 08 May 2012 23:47:30 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/09/Swan_defends_axing_of_company_tax_cut_748478.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Budget_paves_way_for_rate_cuts-_CFMEU_748327.html The budget will ease pressure on manufacturers by paving the way for further official interest rate cuts. Tue, 08 May 2012 12:16:47 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Budget_paves_way_for_rate_cuts-_CFMEU_748327.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Accounting_chicanery_the_budget_winner_748319.html Accounting chicanery was the winner in returning the 2012-13 budget to surplus, the association says. Tue, 08 May 2012 12:07:41 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Accounting_chicanery_the_budget_winner_748319.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Public_sector_to_lose_4200_jobs-_CPSU_748293.html The govt's pursuit of a budget surplus will cost 4200 jobs, says the Community and Public Sector Union. Tue, 08 May 2012 11:15:07 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Public_sector_to_lose_4200_jobs-_CPSU_748293.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Winemakers_drink_to_budget_748282.html Winemakers say the federal budget will help them restructure and refocus on export opportunities in Asia. Tue, 08 May 2012 10:55:30 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Winemakers_drink_to_budget_748282.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Super_measures_create_uncertainty_748269.html The federal budget will limit opportunities for older workers to build their nest eggs, says AIST Tue, 08 May 2012 10:41:52 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Super_measures_create_uncertainty_748269.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Surplus_wont_be_delivered-_Palmer_748260.html Qld mining billionaire Clive Palmer says the forecast surplus in the federal budget won't be delivered. Tue, 08 May 2012 10:35:42 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Surplus_wont_be_delivered-_Palmer_748260.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Yes_to_tax_breaks_but_no_to_cuts_748258.html Australia's 2.7 million small businesses won't be getting any tax cuts but will get other tax breaks. Tue, 08 May 2012 10:29:29 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Yes_to_tax_breaks_but_no_to_cuts_748258.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/ACTU_says_budget_good_in_places_748256.html The ACTU says the federal Labor government faced a difficult task in delivering a budget surplus. Tue, 08 May 2012 10:22:30 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/ACTU_says_budget_good_in_places_748256.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Surplus_means_rate_cuts-_economist_748251.html The federal budget's return to surplus should mean lower interest rates, economists say. Tue, 08 May 2012 10:18:18 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Surplus_means_rate_cuts-_economist_748251.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Govt_ups_taxes_on_golden_handshakes_748242.html Executives will pay more tax on golden handshakes as the federal government aims to increase its revenues. Tue, 08 May 2012 10:10:56 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Govt_ups_taxes_on_golden_handshakes_748242.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/A_unchanged_after_budget_relese_748235.html The Australian dollar was almost unchanged following the official release of the federal budget. Tue, 08 May 2012 09:57:05 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/A_unchanged_after_budget_relese_748235.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Retailers_welcome_payments_to_families_748229.html Retailers have backed the federal govt's decision to provide low-income families with upfront payments. Tue, 08 May 2012 09:54:16 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Retailers_welcome_payments_to_families_748229.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Business_laments_company_tax_decision_748221.html Business is unhappy with the federal government's decision to scrap a cut in the company tax rate. Tue, 08 May 2012 09:51:27 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Business_laments_company_tax_decision_748221.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Coal_issues_hit_exports_-_economists_748197.html Flooding and industrial action hit coal exports and saw Australia's trade deficit widen in March. Tue, 08 May 2012 08:23:00 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Coal_issues_hit_exports_-_economists_748197.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Centro_Retail_in_trading_halt_748183.html Centro Retail shares have gone into a trading halt on pending settlement discussions in it class action suit Tue, 08 May 2012 07:32:08 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Centro_Retail_in_trading_halt_748183.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Hasty_surplus_not_needed-_ANZ_chief_748181.html The head of the ANZ bank says it's not necessary for the government to deliver a surplus in the budget. Tue, 08 May 2012 07:24:49 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Hasty_surplus_not_needed-_ANZ_chief_748181.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Leighton_firms_win_700m_contracts_748175.html Two subsidiaries of Leighton Holdings have won $700 million in new contracts in Indonesia and Australia. Tue, 08 May 2012 07:16:59 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Leighton_firms_win_700m_contracts_748175.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Wetpac_CEO_backs_PM_Gillard_748154.html Westpac CEO Gail Kelly urges Australian business leaders to cooperate, not combat, with PM Julia Gillard. Tue, 08 May 2012 06:51:28 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Wetpac_CEO_backs_PM_Gillard_748154.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/CBA_executive_McEwan_resigns_748149.html CBA retail executive Ross McEwan has resigned to take up a senior position with the Royal Bank of Scotland. Tue, 08 May 2012 06:43:16 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/CBA_executive_McEwan_resigns_748149.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Iluka_to_cut_zircon_production_748077.html Iluka says it will cut its annual production of zircon because the global economic outlook remains unclear. Tue, 08 May 2012 03:47:04 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Iluka_to_cut_zircon_production_748077.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Forrest_slams_Rinehart_on_foreign_labour_747980.html Andrew Forrest has criticised Gina Rinehart for employing foreign workers instead of indigenous labour. Mon, 07 May 2012 21:49:51 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Forrest_slams_Rinehart_on_foreign_labour_747980.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/NSW_to_get_200m_in_budget_for_roads_747953.html NSW is set to receive $200 million in the federal budget to plan big-ticket road projects. Mon, 07 May 2012 21:03:20 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/NSW_to_get_200m_in_budget_for_roads_747953.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Budget_surplus_not_just_one-off_-_Swan_747917.html Treasurer Wayne Swan says his promise to return the budget to surplus in 2012/13 will not just be a one-off. Mon, 07 May 2012 19:04:00 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/08/Budget_surplus_not_just_one-off_-_Swan_747917.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Vic_fire_brigade_staff_stop_work_747822.html About 100 corporate and technical staff at the Metropolitan Fire Brigade have held work stoppages. Mon, 07 May 2012 07:46:03 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Vic_fire_brigade_staff_stop_work_747822.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Data_strong_but_unconvincing_747819.html Retail and residential building figures were stronger than expected in March but not strong enough. Mon, 07 May 2012 07:37:10 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Data_strong_but_unconvincing_747819.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/CBA_to_cut_100_jobs_in_Melbourne_747813.html Commonwealth Bank will cut about 100 jobs in Melbourne as it scales back to deal with weak demand. Mon, 07 May 2012 07:16:35 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/CBA_to_cut_100_jobs_in_Melbourne_747813.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Leighton_pushes_back_Brisbane_link_road_747811.html Leighton Holding's shares dipped after a delay on the completion of Brisbane's Airport Link was announced. Mon, 07 May 2012 07:16:07 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Leighton_pushes_back_Brisbane_link_road_747811.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Building_approvals_rose_74_in_March_747809.html The Australian Bureau of Statistics has released building approvals data for March. Mon, 07 May 2012 07:11:30 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Building_approvals_rose_74_in_March_747809.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Retail_spending_growth_could_be_a_blip_747807.html A significant increase in retail spending could be nothing more than a statistical blip, says retailer group Mon, 07 May 2012 07:09:44 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Retail_spending_growth_could_be_a_blip_747807.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Retail_trade_rose_09_in_March_747804.html Retail trade rose in March to a seasonally adjusted $21.231 billion. Mon, 07 May 2012 07:06:35 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Retail_trade_rose_09_in_March_747804.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Job_advertisements_post_fall_in_April_747730.html A survey shows job advertisements posted a sharp fall in April after three consecutive months of rises. Mon, 07 May 2012 03:52:54 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Job_advertisements_post_fall_in_April_747730.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Good_data_reduces_chance_of_rate_cuts_747729.html The Australian Bureau of Statistics has reported that retail spending rose 0.9 per cent in March. Mon, 07 May 2012 03:52:51 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Good_data_reduces_chance_of_rate_cuts_747729.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Swan_set_to_deliver_fair-go_budget_747713.html Treasurer Wayne Swan is preparing to deliver what he calls a 'tough, but fair-go budget' on Tuesday night. Mon, 07 May 2012 03:15:00 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Swan_set_to_deliver_fair-go_budget_747713.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Margaret_Seale_joins_Telstra_board_747708.html Random House managing director Margaret Seale has joined Telstra's board as a non-executive director. Mon, 07 May 2012 03:00:37 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Margaret_Seale_joins_Telstra_board_747708.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Whitehaven_makes_172m_bid_for_Coalworks_747658.html Whitehaven Coal is continuing its expansion, launching a $172 million offer for NSW coal explorer Coalworks. Mon, 07 May 2012 02:02:35 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Whitehaven_makes_172m_bid_for_Coalworks_747658.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Alesco_waits_for_details_of_takeover_bid_747657.html Alesco has urged its shareholders to take no action on a $188 million takeover offer from DuluxGroup Mon, 07 May 2012 02:02:34 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Alesco_waits_for_details_of_takeover_bid_747657.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Business_conditions_weak_in_April_-_NAB_747656.html A survey shows business conditions worsened in April, unwinding the gradual improvement in activity. Mon, 07 May 2012 02:02:30 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Business_conditions_weak_in_April_-_NAB_747656.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Oricas_profit_falls_due_to_leaks_747630.html Chemical leaks at Orica's plant near Newcastle in NSW have contributed to a four per cent drop in profit. Mon, 07 May 2012 00:29:16 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Oricas_profit_falls_due_to_leaks_747630.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Rail_link_will_still_be_built_-_NSW_govt_747625.html The NSW government has reaffirmed its commitment to the North West Rail Link despite a funding setback. Mon, 07 May 2012 00:21:32 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Rail_link_will_still_be_built_-_NSW_govt_747625.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Fair_go_budget_endorsed_by_IMF_-_Swan_747623.html Treasurer Wayne Swan says IMF has given a 'ringing endorsement' to Labor's plan to return to surplus. Mon, 07 May 2012 00:21:15 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Fair_go_budget_endorsed_by_IMF_-_Swan_747623.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Building_activity_falls_again_in_April_747618.html A study has found Australian building activity has slumped, due to weak demand and lower workloads. Sun, 06 May 2012 23:58:18 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Building_activity_falls_again_in_April_747618.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Suncorp_demands_flood_works_in_Qld_towns_747593.html Suncorp, Queensland's biggest insurer, has stopped writing new policies in two towns that repeatedly flood. Sun, 06 May 2012 22:40:19 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Suncorp_demands_flood_works_in_Qld_towns_747593.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Dentists_wary_of_package_in_budget_747580.html A budget package with cuts to dental waiting lists is being viewed with scepticism by the profession. Sun, 06 May 2012 22:17:02 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Dentists_wary_of_package_in_budget_747580.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Childcare_costs_turn_parents_off_kids_747533.html A survey shows seven out of 10 parents are delaying having children because childcare is too expensive. Sun, 06 May 2012 20:21:05 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Childcare_costs_turn_parents_off_kids_747533.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Doctors_need_to_address_ageing_workforce_747507.html NSW health professionals say doctors need to address the issue of an ageing workforce. Sun, 06 May 2012 19:06:51 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Doctors_need_to_address_ageing_workforce_747507.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Farmers_miners_pan_NSW_lands_plan_747506.html Farmers have joined miners in criticising a NSW government plan to protect agricultural land. Sun, 06 May 2012 19:06:51 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Farmers_miners_pan_NSW_lands_plan_747506.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Feds_refuse_to_fund_North_West_Rail_Link_747505.html The federal government has knocked back a NSW request to fund the North West Rail link. Sun, 06 May 2012 19:06:50 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Feds_refuse_to_fund_North_West_Rail_Link_747505.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/ACOSS_wants_PM_to_increase_payments_747504.html The government has been urged to increase welfare allowances rather than cut payments to reduce poverty. Sun, 06 May 2012 19:06:50 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/ACOSS_wants_PM_to_increase_payments_747504.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Quick_RBA_budget_response_no_certainty_747503.html An economic forecaster says there is no guarantee a budget surplus will invoke a rate cut from the RBA. Sun, 06 May 2012 19:06:50 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/07/Quick_RBA_budget_response_no_certainty_747503.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/Govt_to_fund_study_into_Qld_arts_scene_747342.html The Qld govt will fund a study into the future needs of the state's growing arts scene following complaints. Sun, 06 May 2012 03:24:53 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/Govt_to_fund_study_into_Qld_arts_scene_747342.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/Govt_panicking_over_carbon_tax_-_Hockey_747340.html The fed govt is revamping the bonus for school children because it is panicked over the carbon tax - Hockey. Sun, 06 May 2012 03:22:05 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/Govt_panicking_over_carbon_tax_-_Hockey_747340.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/Pacific_Hwy_completion_by_2016_in_doubt_747275.html The completion of the Pacific Highway upgrade, by the 2016 deadline, is in doubt due to state funding. Sat, 05 May 2012 23:53:38 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/Pacific_Hwy_completion_by_2016_in_doubt_747275.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/Manufacturers_hoping_for_more_support_747264.html The manufacturing sector is hoping to get more government support in the upcoming federal budget. Sat, 05 May 2012 23:20:52 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/Manufacturers_hoping_for_more_support_747264.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/Gillard_pays_for_school_children_747224.html Prime Minister Julia Gillard is to unveil a bonus for one million families with school-aged children. Sat, 05 May 2012 20:25:04 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/Gillard_pays_for_school_children_747224.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/EPA_takes_on_industrial_vandals_747212.html The NSW Environment Minister has told companies to clean up their act, after 14 environmental breaches. Sat, 05 May 2012 19:35:55 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/EPA_takes_on_industrial_vandals_747212.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/Gillard_pays_for_school_kids_747211.html Prime Minister Julia Gillard is to unveil a bonus for one million families with school-aged children. Sat, 05 May 2012 19:35:53 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/Gillard_pays_for_school_kids_747211.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/Bowel_cancer_screens_for_budget_boost_747199.html The federal government is making $50 million available so more people can get free bowel cancer screens. Sat, 05 May 2012 19:14:04 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/06/Bowel_cancer_screens_for_budget_boost_747199.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/05/Carbon_tax_leaving_330_entities_to_pay_746954.html The regulator which will oversee the carbon tax expects around 330 entities will be liable to pay the tax. Sat, 05 May 2012 00:10:55 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/05/Carbon_tax_leaving_330_entities_to_pay_746954.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/05/A_trading_at_10186_US_cents_746910.html The Dow Jones Industrial Average is DOWN 147.92 points at 13058.67 in late trading in New York. Fri, 04 May 2012 21:14:12 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/05/A_trading_at_10186_US_cents_746910.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/05/Commissioner_to_inspect_unclean_hospital_746860.html Staff at a major Sydney hospital will hold off on industrial action while a referee inspects the facility. Fri, 04 May 2012 18:49:17 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/05/Commissioner_to_inspect_unclean_hospital_746860.html http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/05/RBA_govt_GDP_forecasts_similar_-_Swan_746858.html Wayne Swan is basing his upcoming federal budget on similar economic parameters to the central bank. Fri, 04 May 2012 18:41:16 GMT http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Finance/2012/05/05/RBA_govt_GDP_forecasts_similar_-_Swan_746858.html