Archived News for Human Resource Professionals - January, 2014
An opposition spokesperson has warned an expanded work-for-the-dole program will probably not fix unemployment.
Doors open on new site to see how we pick and choose
The University of South Australia has decided to open the doors on a new research institute dedicated to the many choices we have to make.
Minister sees short clock on wages timebomb
A Federal Minister has warned bad things will happen if wage negotiations are not controlled, calling on unions and employers to take it easy.
Water printer to turn the page on office waste
Every day tonnes of paper is printed on, handed to someone, virtually ignored and then thrown away, but a new development could see the end of single-use paper wastage.
Bus drivers' body wants better health boost
The Queensland Bus Industry Council (QBIC) wants to help the state’s drivers shape-up, launching a plan to improve the health of workers in a high-risk arena.
Illegal industrial deals revealed
Reports by multiple Australian media outlets have shown a high level of corruption in construction, with several unions accused of handing lucrative contracts to criminals.
Small power firms want price control in ACT
Some of the smaller players in the ACT electricity market want prices adjusted to improve competition.
Vocal outrage brings arrest, no stopping at Maules Creek
Nearly a dozen people have been arrested while protesting at a mine site in New South Wales.
Terms released for mums' funding bundle of joy
The Federal Government has released details some have been waiting to see since before the election – the Paid Parental Leave Scheme spruiked heavily by Tony Abbott and the Coalition.
Dumb tweet taxes one job, prompts call for forethought
The resignation of a Tax Office worker is a reminder that all public servants should consider their positions when posting on social media, Employment Minister Eric Abetz says.
Failed raid triggers ATO power check
A botched raid based on a hunch has prompted the Australian Tax Office to rethink its policies.
Government puts up $200 to keep marriage happening
Australian newlyweds will receive a $200 voucher for marriage counselling in a Federal Government effort to keep couples together for life.
Big farm plan expanded, could stick on water concerns
Developers are keen to get underway on a $2 billion agricultural project, but some locals say it cannot be done.
Master Builders accuse unions of putting walls around work
A corporate body representing the building industry says the current workplace relations system is blocking hiring and preventing training, while strikes are driving up costs at work sites around the country.
Toddlers' body tantrums have strong genetic basis
Studies have shown there is a genetic basis for physical aggression in toddlers, but it does not mean a person will remain aggressive forever.
Permits stripped after calls from corruption watchdog
New South Wales Premier Barry O'Farrell has moved to void exploration licences for three mines at the centre of corruption inquiries.
Week builds new crop of engineers to balance the past
This week has seen one university host a week-long event aimed at one of the world’s greatest engineering challenges – attracting young women to the profession.
Arrow aims to fly low but stay above ground
Arrow Energy is expected to make some unwanted announcements this week, with reports it is preparing to wind back its commitment to the $10 billion Gladstone LNG project and sack several hundred workers.
Latest Google glass puts eyes on diabetes
A contact lens to help manage diabetes is the latest next-level device to leak from Google’s technology labs.
Swapping for swabs with urine concerns conceded
Some Australian workers have had a win for workplace dignity, with the Fair Work Commission forcing one company to switch from urine to saliva in staff drug tests.
Ruling means better rates and tests for disabled workers
Compensation will be offered to thousands of intellectually disabled workers, after a court ruled the system used to define their rate of pay was discriminatory.