The Master Builders Association, Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and industry association members have called for proper scrutiny of the last-minute ABCC amendments following Wednesday’s Senate vote to not scrutinise last-minute changes to the Bill. [ + ]

The Sustainable Energy Association of Australia (SEA) has criticised the Australian Government for axing the Renewable Energy Bonus Scheme, with SEA Chief Executive Professor Ray Wills “lost for words” by the decision. [ + ]

The Electrical Trades Union (ETU) has called on the Australian Government to ban smart meter repairs until the liquid leaks are analysed and declared safe to handle. [ + ]

Improving the average energy-efficiency rating of household appliances by just one star could effectively halve household energy consumption, new research by Energeia reveals. [ + ]

Following the government’s sudden announcement that the Renewable Energy Bonus Scheme will close, the Australian Solar Energy Society (AuSES) has called on the federal government to reinstate the solar hot water rebate, arguing that the decision will have a dire impact on the clean energy industry. [ + ]

Schneider Electric has launched two new power solutions for the Australian healthcare sector: an emergency power solution for hospitals and a power distribution system and monitoring solution for operating theatres. [ + ]

EMSc (UK) Ltd is expanding into the Asia-Pacific region, opening a dedicated Powerstar office in Australia. Powerstar’s success in Australia over the past few years has prompted the expansion. [ + ]

The latest amendments to the Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment (Transition to Fair Work) Bill 2011 have been criticised by the Australian Constructors Association (ACA). [ + ]

Tony Henshaw has been appointed to the NICTA Board. With over 35 years’ experience in the IT industry, Henshaw has held senior roles at Telstra, Unisys, EDS, Aspect Computing and Computer Power. [ + ]

The Australian Building and Construction Commissioner, Leigh Johns, has called for an inquiry into the ABCC’s deficient management of evidence in a 2009 committal hearing in the Melbourne Magistrates Court. [ + ]

The Australian Industry Group has appointed Innes Willox as the organisation’s new Chief Executive, effective from 1 May. [ + ]

Emerson Network Power Asia has appointed Paul Churchill as its new Vice President for services and projects. [ + ]

The HARTING Technology Group was recognised by its peers for its exceptional exchange of experience and knowledge among German companies. [ + ]

The Australian Building and Construction Commissioner is requesting tender submissions to conduct research into sham contracting in the building and construction industry. [ + ]

Master Electricians Australia has developed a flood repair fact sheet to make sure homeowners stay safe, following the recent floods. [ + ]