Industry News
New program for women in building
The Turnbull government has announced a pilot mentoring program to support women in the building and construction industry. [ + ]
ANZ inks deal with Apple
ANZ is the first of the big four banks to enter into an agreement with Apple to support the Apple Pay digital wallet service. All four had previously agreed to support the Google Android pay system. The bank joins American Express, which has supported Apple Pay since late 2015. [ + ]
Trimble to showcase new CarCube
Trimble will be showcasing its next-generation CarCube onboard computer at the International Truck, Trailer and Equipment Show (5–7 May, Melbourne). [ + ]
Board shuffle for nbn
Former iiNet CEO Michael Malone has been appointed as a director to nbn's board for the next three years, replacing outgoing Internode founder Simon Hackett. [ + ]
TR acquired by Vp plc for $17m
Equipment specialist company TR Pty Ltd, owner of TechRentals, has been bought out by UK company Vp plc for $17 million. [ + ]
Government criticised over unfair tactics
An opinon piece published in Queensland's Courier Mail last week takes aim at government plans to put itself in direct competition with the state's 10,000+ licensed electricians and 1200 registered solar installers. [ + ]
Fiat Scudo brake issue recall
Fiat Chrysler Australia (FCA) advises that certain vehicles in the Scudo van (2013) range may incorporate non-conforming front brake discs. This defect may result in an accident and therefore represents a risk to drivers and occupants. [ + ]
Energy retailer pays up over 'misleading' renewables advertising
Momentum Energy has agreed to pay $54,000 in penalties after the ACCC argued its advertising campaign gave misleading information to consumers about how it supplied renewable energy. [ + ]
2025: Adios internal combustion engine?
The Netherlands is the latest nation set to phase out new petrol- and diesel-powered cars by 2025, having recently passed a motion through parliament. This follows on from a similar initiative in Norway late last year. [ + ]
Distributed energy demands better tariffs
Better electricity tariffs are needed to unlock the full potential of distributed energy, according to the Energy Networks Association (ENA). [ + ]
Coalition quashes Road Safety Remuneration Tribunal
The Coalition Government has successfully abolished the Road Safety Remuneration Tribunal, after much debate. [ + ]
Aussie partnership produces superconductor
A research agreement between Siemens, Queensland University of Technology and the Australian Government's Defence Science and Technology group has produced prototype high-temperature superconductors. [ + ]
Building forecast looks brighter
Last November's building industry forecasts were not optimistic, projecting a $2–4 billion downswing over the next three years. Times have changed, it seems, with the upcoming Australian Construction Industry Forum's forecasts painting a more buoyant picture. [ + ]
Energy storage — the new disruptor
Improvements in energy storage are happening quickly and threatening to disrupt existing business models and entire sectors. Consider the new Model Tesla 3 electric car — over 200,000 were ordered within 24 hours of its release. [ + ]
Wiring rules open for public comment
The revision of the Australian and New Zealand wiring rules for electrical installations is now open for public comment. [ + ]
