With speculation mounting that the Henry Tax Review will recommend the introduction of a Federal resources rent tax, alarm bells are starting to ring for local business and industry which fears being forced to pay even higher taxes to prop-up the underperforming Eastern States economies.

The peak organisation representing local business, CCI, is deeply concerned by comments made by the Prime Minister yesterday indicating that Western Australia will be penalised for our economic success.

Western Australia is being relied upon more than ever to shoulder the responsibility of driving the Nation’s economy forward.

It makes no sense to introduce new taxes and charges that will further erode the international competitiveness of the sector, on which almost all WA businesses, directly or indirectly, depend.

At the same time, the WA Government has made clear that the State will continue to charge royalties even if the Federal Government pushes ahead with a national resources rent tax.

It would mean that a key WA industry will be taxed twice.

It is not only unfair, but will disadvantage our mining and resources sector at a time when we need them most. It also sends a negative message to prospective investors about the benefits of doing business in Australia.

Months of uncertainty surrounding the detail of the Henry Tax Review will end this weekend when the Review is finally released. CCI and other business groups have been calling for this for months.

CCI will carefully examine the report and continue to work for a better and fairer tax system for local business and industry.

Source: http://www.cciwa.com/30_April_2010.aspx#20863

The Federal Government’s decision to delay the introduction of an emissions trading scheme until 2013 at the earliest, gives all sides of politics more time to develop a policy that will benefit the environment and help, not hinder, local business.

The State’s peak organisation representing local business, CCI, believes climate change is one of the most significant issues to face the international community.

CCI has argued for some time that it made no sense to rush the introduction of a policy, which if not handled properly, would cause significant harm to the local economy and business.

There is no shame in taking the time to get the policy right.

An emissions trading scheme must be carefully designed and implemented to ensure that it does not harm the international competitiveness of local business, including the State’s resources and energy sector.

WA business is looking for a climate change policy that;

• is market based;
• minimises the risk to the economy;
• does not diminish our international competitiveness;
• encourages innovation; and
• is part of a single, consistent national response.

These goals can only be reached through bi-partisan agreement.

In the meantime, business will continue to search for new ways to lower its carbon footprint, including through increased energy efficiency.

CCI looks forward to working with the major political parties on behalf of the WA business community to develop a climate change policy that is in the State’s and the Nation’s best interests.

Source: http://www.cciwa.com/27_April_2010_1.aspx#20862

More than 450 miners from around NSW will come together in the Hunter Valley this weekend for the annual NSW Minerals Industry OHS Conference, hosted by the NSW Minerals Council (NSWMC) at Cypress Lakes Resort from 3-5 May.

NSW Mineral Resources Minister Ian Macdonald will officially open the conference on Monday morning. Delegates will hear from a diverse range of speakers including:

- NSW Minerals Council Chairman Mick Buffier
- Communications and performance expert Amanda Gore (also known as the “people whisperer”)
- Li Cunxin, Mao’s Last Dancer
- Internationally renowned safety culture expert Corrie Pitzer
- A host of industry, health and safety professionals.

NSWMC Chief Executive Officer, Dr Nikki Williams, described the Conference as the benchmark industry event for OHS in Australia.

“This is an event for the industry, by the industry. It gives delegates an unprecedented opportunity to hear from some of the world’s best experts on workplace safety and communication, as well as a unique opportunity to share their own experiences. It is a critical part of the ongoing pursuit of zero harm in the NSW mining industry,” she said.

The theme of this year’s conference is “Communicating Safety: Cracking the Code”. It will focus the industry on how it communicates health and safety messages, how it talks about risks and controls, how consultation happens, how leaders get their message out, how employees and contractors express their views and what all this communication means for the industry’s culture and its safety performance.

The NSW Minerals Council Health & Safety Innovation Awards are a feature of the Conference. The best health and safety innovations from around the industry will be recognised at a special gala event on Monday night.

“The presentation of the innovations by the finalists is truly inspiring. The passion of the individuals and the quality of the invention they showcase captures the type of commitment the industry makes to OHS on a daily basis. The aim of the awards is to recognise the best, but more importantly to promote a culture of innovation in health and safety within the mining industry.”

Source: http://www.nswmin.com.au/Media-Speeches-and-Info/Media-Releases/default.aspx

Peak retail industry body the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) said the Rudd Government’s plans to make plain packaging compulsory for tobacco products by 1 January 2012 would significantly increase the sale of illegal tobacco, putting children at greater risk.

ARA Executive Director Russell Zimmerman said the Government’s announcement seemed rash and premature considering submissions for the Senate Inquiry into Plain Tobacco Packaging close tomorrow with the Committee not due to report until 26 August 2010.

“Plain packaging has no demonstrable public health benefit and will lead to unintended consequences such as an increase use of illegal tobacco – because counterfeiting and smuggling would be made easier.

“Obviously it is easier to counterfeit a product that isn’t branded and already over 12 percent of all tobacco consumed is sold illegally, costing the Federal Government more than $600 million per year in lost taxes*.

“Retailers are vigilant in their responsibility to ensure they are not selling tobacco products to minors, but obviously there is no one checking IDs on the black market,” Zimmerman said.

Zimmerman added the Government’s plans to introduce compulsory plain packaging for tobacco products only duplicated the regulatory burden and costly increases to transaction times caused by retail display bans already scheduled for six states and territories across Australia.

“Scheduled retail display bans already hide display of cigarette packaging, and like retail display bans, plain packaging is likely to significantly increase the time taken to complete a transaction at the register.

“Regulations that increase transaction times have been estimated to cost businesses up to half a billion dollars ($461 million) – equivalent to 15,000 jobs. **

“The cost of plain packaging regulations will be compounded by negative flow-on impacts to upstream sectors such as printing – leading to further job losses.

“For small scale grocery retailers and convenience stores, the sale of products can account for up to 30 to 40 percent of their profits and the ARA is disappointed there has been no consideration of retailers - or other industry groups - prior to the announcement of the Government’s plans to introduce compulsory plain packaging for tobacco products,” Zimmerman said.

Source: http://www.retail.org.au/index.php/news/Retailers_say_plain_packaged_tobacco_puts_children_at_risk

Providing the vital link between manufacturing optics and the profession, The FMO, has just released a new brochure which explains the benefits of membership.

Advances in diagnostic and spectacle manufacturing technology, understanding compliance with European and world standards, relevant legal and insurance advice, the long established Bad Payers’ List, networking, optical training, and discounted rates on a number of service providers are all part of the FMO benefits package.

“Most importantly, The FMO provides the opportunity for members to appreciate the bigger picture of optics. Our regional meetings around the country are highly valued for bringing optical suppliers together, sharing camaraderie and learning more about other aspects of the industry in which we work,” said FMO Chairman, Barry Dibble.

“With three specific focus groups for frame suppliers, lens suppliers and equipment suppliers, and of course, the leading biennial trade show, Optrafair, The FMO has a firm finger on the pulse of optics,” he added.

Recently launched was an overseas membership category for companies around the world who would like to benefit from the expertise within The FMO.

Source: http://www.fmo.co.uk/news/article.asp?id=70

After almost thirty years with the Freight Transport Association, Joan Williams, Head of Road Freight and Enforcement Policy, will retire at the end of April leaving behind an impressive legacy.

Williams began her FTA career in 1982 as a tachograph inspector for what was then known as FTA’s Freightcheck service. Her work ethic, a keen eye for detail and the ability to interpret and make sense of complicated legislation and regulation, meant it was not long before she became a key member of the policy team.

James Hookham, Managing Director of Policy and Communications, said:

“Joan is a true star and possesses a rare skill which allows her to see things most other people can’t; a forensic, laser-like ability to instantly spot the missed implication in a clause that would have others reaching for the legal dictionary … and the paracetamol.

“More than this, though, Joan has embodied those virtues that FTA holds most dear – her professionalism, enthusiasm, good humour and warmth will be greatly missed by both her colleagues at FTA and the members for whom she has provided invaluable advice and support along the way.”

Williams’ reputation for persistence and tenacity is well-deserved, having helped to shape the outcomes of such legislative challenges as, among other things, the Working Time Directive, the introduction of digital tachographs and the radical revision of the EU drivers’ hours regulations.

Source: http://www.fta.co.uk/news/item/thank-you-joan-fta-says-au-revoir-to-a-true-star

Many horsebox owners do not realise that their vehicle may be of a size that brings it under special regulations relating to road transport. When choosing and using these vehicles it is important to understand how road transport law applies to them and what the rules entail.

The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has produced an essential guide for anyone who is involved in the transport of horses by road. The guide was originally presented to Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal in recognition of her keen interest in equestrianism and equine welfare, when she opened FTA’s new office in Leeds earlier in the year. FTA is now making the guide available to everyone involved in the transport of horses so that they can ensure their operation is both safe and legal.

Subjects covered in the comprehensive guide include:

• Driving licences
• Operator licensing
• Towing trailers
• Road traffic rules
• Animal welfare in transit

Source: http://www.fta.co.uk/news/item/essential-guide-to-safe-and-legal-horse-transport

The 15th edition of the Freight Transport Association’s guide for international road transport operators is now available. The annual guide includes information to help clarify the often confusing set of regulations faced by UK-based operators when they visit countries in the EU and beyond.

The FTA International Road Transport Guide uses country profiles to equip transport managers with the information needed to avoid unanticipated delays and deal effectively with roadside enforcement. The new 2010 edition includes updated information on public holidays, weekend lorry bans and toll prices and other essential facts for fleet operators in both the own account and hire and reward sectors.

The list of countries covered has been expanded and there are new travel advice sections by country. Ferry service information has been updated, along with advice on stowaways, cabotage requirements and attestation letters.

Don Armour, FTA’s International Manager and editor of the guide, said:

“International road transport operators are often faced with a confusing array of local and national regulations that they do not encounter in the UK, including weekend bans, local weight restrictions and city centre bans linked to low emissions, along with different processes and penalties for dealing with tachograph and drivers’ hours infringements, roadworthiness issues and inappropriate loading of the vehicle.

“The new guide is more comprehensive than ever before and with no price increase this year, any operator involved in international road transport will find it fantastic value.”

Source: http://www.fta.co.uk/news/item/new-fta-international-guide-now-available

Water is one of the most undervalued natural commodities in the world, directly affecting national security through its impact on economic growth, energy security, food supply and healthcare.

A major new report, just published by an alliance including the Institution of Civil Engineers, the Royal Academy of Engineering, and the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management, says that the UK must take a lead in tackling its water footprint and managing its water resources sustainably.

The Bathroom Manufacturers Association has welcomed the report since it looks into areas which have been priorities for the BMA for many years: Water Efficient Bathroom Products, The Labelling Scheme, Carbon Savings and Education.

The study group gathered evidence from engineers, academics, economists, service providers and government officials. Amongst the report’s conclusions it recommends that ‘water security should become a core component of UK policy making’ and ‘industry must show leadership in reducing its water footprint.’
It talks about the need for more ‘investment in research’ and involvement of ‘the public in general to support informed decision making in connection with water use.’

“This is an excellent report” commented Yvonne Orgill, chief executive of the BMA. “It clearly shows that water needs to be more valued in our culture and that we must all do more to use it wisely.” She went on to say “our members have been ahead of the curve for a number of years. Members of the BMA have been very active designing and marketing a complete range of water efficient bathroom products and quite clearly the Water Efficient Product Labelling Scheme (WEPLS) is well placed to provide the public with the information it requires to make those important decisions when choosing a new bathroom. Good, clear and reliable product labelling is the cornerstone to water efficiency. There is a growing momentum behind it and merchants, retailers and big DIY stores are seeing the value in providing the consumer with sufficient detail to make an informed and intelligent choice.”

WEPLS and its products
WEPLS is a web-enabled database of the all the very best water efficient bathroom products currently available in the UK market.

Almost 1000 products are now within the scheme and once listed are entitled to use the special Water Efficiency Label which has been designed to be intuitive and easily recognisable.

Products can be found in the searchable lists which are divided into categories.

Fact sheets, lists of stockists, and an on-line water calculator enhance the scheme’s usability.

Source: http://www.bathroom-association.org/press.asp?ID=292

The theme of the 2010 Bathroom Conference is Good Customer Service – Making Good Business Sense and all of the specially-invited speakers have a proven track record in the field. This will be this year’s Golden Opportunity to get up to speed with all that is new in providing a good customer experience. Yvonne Orgill, chief executive of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, looks at the line up.

Annual Bathroom Conference
19 October 2010
Carden Park Hotel, Cheshire

Amongst the developing list will be LARRY HOCHMAN, BOB JOHNSTON and STUART CROSS
Larry HOCHMAN is one of the most popular keynote speakers in the world and a former European Business Speaker of the Year. He is a globally recognised expert on Customer Relationships, Leadership and Talent Management. Before beginning his speaking career twelve years ago, Larry held a number of senior positions at British Airways and Air Miles. His roles included Director of Customer Service and Director of People and Culture - Larry being the very first person in Europe to ever have this latter role. He also was a pioneer of corporate mentoring in Europe and has been the personal mentor to many Chief Executives all over the world.

Robert JOHNSTON is Professor of Operations Management at Warwick Business School and is one of the leading authorities in the customer experience and transforming organisations into world-class service providers. Before moving to academia Bob held several line management and senior management roles. Bob continues to maintain close and active links with many organisations through his research, management training and consultancy activities. His research interests include service transformation, service excellence, customer experience design, service recovery and complaint management. He is the co-author or editor of over 30 books. We are looking forward to hearing his experiences in the world of customer service.

Stuart CROSS is back to the Bathroom Conference platform. He galvanised delegates at the 2009 conference and returns to do it again this year. He will also facilitate the event. Since establishing Morgan Cross Consulting in 2006 Stuart has been helping world-class companies find new ways to drive substantial, profitable growth. In just over two years he has attracted market-leading clients including Alliance Boots, Avon Cosmetics and PricewaterhouseCoopers and his work as a consultant, speaker and coach has taken him to six countries across Europe and to North America. Stuart also teaches on MBA courses at Warwick and Nottingham University Business Schools.

“We are really excited by the very high calibre of our speakers for the 2010 Conference” says Orgill. “These are just three and there are more to be announced. We are determined to build on last year’s success and we know that the theme of customer service is bound to be popular.”

Source: http://www.bathroom-association.org/press.asp?ID=291