http:// 2013-04-15T22:13:45Z 2013-04-15T22:13:45Z not-so-super-arithmetical-realities-are-being-ignored

The current conversation on Superannuation overlooks the realities of simple arithmetic and compound interest.The problems inherent in the current system stem from arbitrage (avoidance and evasion). The power of compound interest. You don’t have to be Einstein to realize that the combined effect of the 15% contributions tax and the 15% tax on earnings inhibits personal and national wealth. If $850 ($1000 minus 15%) was invested at (8.2% minus 15%) 7% for 48 years it would generate $20,400. If $1000 was invested at 8.2% for 48 years it would generate $40,600 – almost twice as much!      In 1915 the Fisher/Hughes Government introduced corporate tax concessions for retirement funding. Before the superannuation guarantee was introduced a 5% tax on fund earnings was applied. Typically white collar and professional employees contributed 5% from salary (deductable) which was matched by an equal contribution from the employer. When the Superannuation Guarantee arrived the 5% tax was increased to 15% and a contributions tax of 15% applied.  The combined effect of these two taxes has the potential to reduce a future retiree’s accumulation by at least 35%, leaving only 65% in terms of capital, in other words the retiree’s capital account could be around 54% greater.   The below average to average worker of today is going to be either significantly or partly social security dependent upon retirement. Consider the reduction in future aged care costs if those who would be significantly dependent were to become less dependent and those who would be partly dependent were to become fully independent.  A casual observation indicates that less than $7B in SG taxes is derived from the lower 50% of the workforce, whereas a future reduction of say 30% in the aged care budget would save around $11B in today’s money values. The future value of our nation’s employee superannuation accounts will have the potential to be around 40% greater if taxation is avoided until the goose that lays the golden egg has reached puberty. The considerable cost in money and time of increasing the contribution to 12% (and thereafter to 15%) can be averted as a 10% fund untaxed matches a 15% fund taxed. The current issue stems from arbitrage. Lump sum investors in the later years of the Howard/Costello government were encouraged to invest up to $1,000,000 into a 15% tax shelter. They were exchanging a 45% (or 40%) tax rate for a 15% rate. Therefore every $1B of super tax revenue gained was at the cost of $3B ($2.66B) to other revenue. At the time aged pension asset means test was less than $400,000! A simultaneous solution must be found to address both arbitrage and inadequate retirement accumulations. I advocate that all account earnings be taxed at 30% from a tax free threshold of $60,000*. This threshold should reduce by $500 for each extra $1,000 earned and therefore fully exhaust at $120,000. Thereafter further money should either be deposited into a normal savings product (after withholding 30% tax), or cease (and convert to taxable salary). The current tax points are toxic. I am sure that taken to a 40 year forward estimate the future will be much brighter if we make the changes sooner rather than later. Our current arrangements have probably already cost the nation and its people around $300B in net wealth. I propose that the changes should be made over a five year period from 1 July 2015.- The proposal to increase contributions to 12% (and thereafter to 15%) should be scrapped. The compulsory contributions should be capped at 10% from 1 July 2015. - Each of the 15% taxes should be rolled back by 3% per year to zero at 1 July 2019.  - Compensation should be given to retirees who will have suffered over two decades of SG taxes. I propose that the threshold be loaded by 60% as at 1 July 2015, reducing by 2.5% per annum to zero at 2039 for such people. Naturally, those who put $1,000,000 on deposit 30 June 2006 will only receive a 20% loading.  - In the transitional period the threshold will actually be taxed 12% from 1 July 2015 tapering to a fully tax-free threshold of zero from 1 July 2019. The cost of implementing changes could be in the vicinity of $30B over five years. The real cost is to do nothing. The future savings by not having to advance contributions to 12% (and 15%) is considerable. The way things stand at the moment individual prosperity and national wealth is being seriously compromised. Go to www.revenuereview.com.auhomepage item “Wealth for Toil or Safety Net Dependency” for more information. I look forward to your comments.Contact Richard Hackett-Jones0405 405 110info@revenuereview.com.auRevenue Review Foundationwww.revenuereview.com.au * Indexed to 80% of average fulltime wages $72,500 x 0.8 = $60,000

2013-04-10T07:46:05Z katter-s-competition-to-design-election-tv-advertisement

09 April 2013 - KAP Leader and Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter this morning launched his 2013 Kennedy electorate federal advertising campaign, a campaign which in a remarkable departure calls for the public to design the advertisement as part of a national competition.“Your Katter Campaign” is a competition open to Australian citizens of any age and location to design, develop and submit a video that will be used (in full or part) as Bob’s federal election Kennedy television advertising campaign.Mr Katter said the campaign was created to empower the people and as a way to get a better understanding of the issues the Australian people consider very important to the country.“I have been in politics for almost 40 years and have been representing Kennedy federally since 1993. This election I wanted to do something different.“We are trying to work against the typical election ad which is full of talking heads droning on about policy.“People have seen my noggin often enough on TV. This is about the people of Australia and the people recognising what needs to be done in Kennedy.“It’s about trusting their intelligence and seeing what they think are the issues. It’s about a fresh perspective on politics.“Politics affects everybody. It affects the quality of a person’s life and their future, so it makes perfect sense that the people get to contribute to my campaign.“I call on everybody to get involved. It’s open to everybody: from high school and primary school students, university students, professionals, tradespeople – everybody.”Your Katter Campaign launched at midnight last night and closes at midnight the 7th of June 2013.To enter, email your name and address to yourkattercampaign@gmail.com to receive the Competition Guide that outlines the campaign instructions.See this video for more details: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36pCbYmItaY

2013-04-09T04:21:44Z kap-blasts-broadwater-cruise-ship-option-out-of-the-water

KAP Leader and Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter has blasted the proposed Broadwater location for the Gold Coast Cruise Ship Terminal today, presenting information confirming that the location is both unviable in terms of vessel inaccessibility and potential for severe damage to the marine environment. Mr Katter highlighted the serious implications for the LNP’s Broadwater Marine Project immediately after Gold Coast City Council Mayor Tom Tate launched his draft ocean beaches strategy arguing that the Council and Queensland Government need to go back to the drawing board, to avoid wasting any further valuable resources on a doomed infrastructure plan that cannot deliver. Mr Katter said, “The proposals for a development of a cruise ship terminal are critical for the Gold Coast and we strongly endorse the Mayor’s statements today, but we strongly believe that the beaches on the Broadwater should also be preserved. “The Broadwater belongs to the people of this area. It belongs to the families with kids and grandkids that use the Broadwater to paddle, swim and play. “When you start gumming up the mouth of a river, you are causing untold environmental damage. “The Spit and open inlet in that area will have to be dredged annually or even biannually – and it will cost a king’s ransom. It will also cause turbulence in all those waters,” said Mr Katter. KAP Shadow Minister for Tourism Keith Douglas joined Mr Katter today, and said that a recent survey of the cruise ship industry has shown that a Broadwater cruise ship terminal is unviable and impractical. Mr Douglas said, “60 per cent of the boats being unable to access the Broadwater terminal means that the project really is dead in the water and it will never be a reality”  “If proper consultation was done, these mistakes would have been avoided; allowing for the community’s concerns to be properly addressed rather than an arrogant display of ‘we know best’. “We need some common sense to prevail here and there is no common sense when it comes to putting a terminal in the Broadwater,” said Mr Douglas. Mr Katter said that if the proposed Broadwater location went ahead, “There would be no fishing and no marine life due to the constant and continual dredging required. “The only reason for doing this clearly, is that there are some very powerful and wealthy interests that want to own Broadwater lock stock and barrel and if they get Wavebreak Island - they will,” Mr Katter said.  

2013-04-08T05:02:00Z australian-decline-in-finance-jobs

Australian decline in finance jobs opportunities eFinancialCareers Quarterly Finance Jobs Barometer Media Release SYDNEY, 08 April 2013 - Australia’s financial services job opportunities declined 34% in the first quarter of 2013 compared to the same period in 2012. It was the largest decline experienced across the leading global financial centres according to the quarterly Jobs Barometer from eFinancialCareers, the leading career site for professionals working in investment banking, asset management and the securities industries.Australia was not alone with significant declines in finance opportunities also prevalent across the region with Singapore and Hong Kong registering decreases of 13% and 24% respectively. The UK also experienced a significant reduction (-27%) for the period. eFinancialCareers Managing Director Asia-Pacific, George McFerran, said: “the decline of job opportunities in Australian financial services is reflective of a shift in organisation priorities, there is currently a definite focus on retrenchment. We are also perhaps starting to see the results of the offshoring programmes that many banks have been utilising.However, despite the overall decline the new environment of regulation and capital adequacy requirements are driving strong growth in the areas of compliance and legal, risk management and retail banking.”APAC Top performers - Despite an overall decline for the period recruiting in key areas is occurring. The year-on-year job posting figures (Q1 2013 – Q1 2012) show growth across APAC in:• Compliance/Legal (+54%) – banks have been steadily hiring (and are likely to continue) for compliance positions since the onset of the Global Financial Compliance. New compliance roles have been created on the back of new regulatory requirements including Basel III. “It is anticipated this will remain a solid employment area as it is an essential function, with a need to replace departing staff,” said Mr McFerran.• Risk management (+29%) – as banks expand their Asian presence managing operational, credit and market risk will remain a crucial process, increasing demand for risk talent.• Retail banking (+25%) – unlike investment banking in the region which has been hit by falling deal-flows and fee income, the comparative stability of revenue in retail banking will keep recruitment healthy. This is partially driven by the shifting focus of Australian domestic banks to develop new products and increasingly use their branch network as a sales channel. APAC Bottom Performers - Derivatives (-58%), Trading (-53%) and Equities (-43%) - continued market volatility and budgetary pressures imposed by cost -conscious investment banks are combining to subdue front-office recruiting in Asia, especially in equities, trading, and derivatives. Positions in these fields are typically well paid and banks need to submit a cast-iron business case to head office to get the extra headcount expense approved. Firms prefer to make do with current resources and are keeping trading teams at current levels unless there is a prolonged global economic recovery. 2013 Outlook - “While 2013 is unlikely to be a bumper year for recruitment in Australian financial services, a gentle and sustainable recovery in job opportunities compared with last year is expected,” said Mr McFerran.“We anticipate the job market will be more buoyant in insurance, and retail, corporate and transaction banking, where revenue will be more stable and banks will continue to expand to meet client needs. In investment banks deal flows in M&A and capital markets will need to consistently improve to justify more hiring in the second half of this year.”***ENDS*** The eFinancialCareers Quarterly Job Barometer tracks APAC positions advertised on eFinancialCareers in sectors where there is a minimum level of 150 advertised jobs a month for three consecutive months. Sectors qualifying for the APAC Job Barometer for the three months ended 31 March 2013 were Risk Management, Compliance / Legal, Retail Banking, Information Technology, Accounting & Finance, Private Banking / Wealth Management, Operations, Quantitative Analytics, Capital Markets, Corporate Banking, Credit, Investment Banking / M & A, Commodities, Insurance, Information Services, Asset Management, Consultancy, Equities, Sales & Marketing, FX & Money Markets, Trading, Debt / Fixed Income, Derivatives.About eFinancialCareers eFinancialCareers, a Dice Holdings, Inc. service, is the leading global career site network for professionals working in the investment banking, asset management and securities industries. The website provides financial services professionals with job opportunities, job market news and analysis, salary surveys and career advice. Recruiters and employers can post jobs targeting specific sectors within the financial services industry, both buy-side and sell-side, and can search the resume database for highly qualified and specialized professionals. eFinancialCareers has a network of co-branded career sites with industry-leading trade publications and offers local websites in 19 markets and five languages primarily across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and financial centres of the Middle East. Please visit www.eFinancialCareers.com.au for more information.For further information please contact: Cape Public Relations +61 2 8218 2190 Luke Roberts luke@capepublicrelations.com M: 0422 855 930 Sara Crow sara@capepublicrelations.com M: 0413 682 377

2013-03-25T00:34:46Z tom-tate-gold-coast-mayor-or-promise-breaker-enough-for-making-and-breaking-promises

What’s up Tom, you were put in position by the Gold Coast community and just to break all the promises you declared for a better Gold Coast, but lets see if you stay in position after what you did with Kirra, and now you voice your opinion the only opinion on your new baby, the cruise ship terminal. Lets face the reality, the Gold Coast is not Las Vegas Tom, although you may speak of magnificence by trying to turn the Gold Coast in to another Vegas you need to wake up Tom, it will never happen. Tom if you really want the Gold Coast to stand out, then start by considering the opinion of small business owners that are struggling, get feedback from them and stick to a game plan - a game plan that helped you get stay in position. Tom what type of a Mayor puts up his own Facebook page then censors comments and then when your lack of popularity becomes apparent you pull your site down? Seriously Tom I was viewing all your online YouTube videos over the weekend and one thing has become very apparent you love to break promises and don’t car or listen to the people. I have compiled a list of YouTube broken promises as a reminder of why Tom Tate should be booted out as Gold Coast Mayor.   1.    MAYOR TOM TATE’S TANTRUM on his pledge to restore Kirra – abandons the Gold Coast surfing community 2.    MAYOR TOM TATE MASS CENSORSHIP of his Facebook Page – Nine GC News 3.    MAYOR TOM TATE EXPOSED ON 7.30 REPORT And then there is this appalling display of his arrogance when the NBN CO tried to carry out a presentation for Mayor and Council. 1.    Mayor Tom Tate snubs NBN representative Then what about the $180,000 logo or is it $700,000 when they launch it. Version two is in – Mayor Tom Tate’s epic failed new brand for the city of The Gold Coast – the full stop campaign, costing nearly $700000 to rate payers and it’s the worst city brand in the history of this planet. This is the amazing news coverage, free advertising and “exposure” he valued at approx $250000 worth. Some have said any publicity is good publicity, but in the case of tourism, nothing could be further from the truth. Gold Coast City Council and the DicTATEr “Tom Tate” are it again burning our hard earned money. What an incredible waste of money, destruction of the GoldCoast’s city values and history and desecration of everything the Gold Coast is and should be. At the same time, a local Community Centre was forced to close it’s food program supplying food packs to struggling residents because it couldn’t get just $20,000 to support it – Great work Tate, MASSIVE FAIL GCCC!!! And then this in the local paper  - “THE launch of the city’s controversial new red dot logo gained more than $260,000 worth of free publicity in media coverage, says the Gold Coast City Council. Mayor Tom Tate said brand coverage reached more than 1.5 million people across television, radio, print and online media, although it was not specified what proportion of the coverage was positive. Despite the brand being widely criticised for its cost, Cr Tate said the return in media coverage had made the spend worthwhile. Launched last week, the new brand replaces the old blue and gold council logo with a distinctive Full Stop message. The brand will have six sub-brands and be rolled out by bodies such as Gold Coast Tourism, Business Gold Coast, Gold Coast Arts Centre, Broadbeach Alliance, Connecting Southern Gold Coast and Surfers Paradise Alliance.” It’s time to wake up Tom and face the reality, this got coverage because it is a laughing stock. You wasteful little man. By the way Tom think before you speak, you make no sense when you deliver your press conference speeches. Are your verbally challenged? or just mentally challenged?  

2013-03-24T23:50:38Z broadwater-cruise-ship-terminal-still-in-death-get-real-tom-what-are-you-doing

Broadwater cruise ship terminal is neither worthwhile nor not useful at all and it is just a matter of time before the project is declared “still in death”. This is according to the recent survey conducted by the cruise ship industry. In fact, this has brought serious implications for the LNP’s Broadwater Marine Project which needs to go back to the drawing board so that the proponents do not waste any further valuable resources on a doomed infrastructure plan that cannot deliver. Consulting the community about this matter would have avoided these mistakes and allowed for the public’s concerns to be well addressed rather than a proud display of “we know best” by those who currently have the right of representation. Bob Katter will be holding a media conference near Southport Surf Lifesaving Club Monday 25th March 2013 to talk more about this and to make an important announcement in support of the local dive industry. KAP is committed to protecting and developing small business in Australia. Details are as follows: · 12:00 pm Monday, 25 March 2013 · Beach access point from Car Park opposite Pavilion – north of Club Southport Surf Lifesaving Club, MacArthur Parade, Main Beach. The following is the statement made by Paul Klerck local Gold Coast business owner and protester to the current Broadwater Cruise Ship Terminal. There are options available to deliver a cruise ship terminal to the Gold Coast that works and will not be detrimental to the Broadwater. Have your say today, are you getting tired of being told by unruly politicians what you need to do, accept and settle for? The Australian public are getting tired of politicians and political movements that are strangling us all. Australians really need to question what has happened to our “Lucky Country” to the family unit, small and medium business, the farmers and primary producers. When are we going to say STOP no more? We are so over governed by brainless local, state and federal governments. This is evident in Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate in his latest actions with the Broadwater Cruise Ship Terminal. What is this Tom, another job for the boys project? Just like your money squandering episode with your $180,000 big red dot money spending spree. Insanity is once again showing its ugly face at the Gold Coast City Council, you guys made a massive mess of Tipplers that cost rate payers massively and now this latest disaster. Tom you will be stopped, you were voted in to act for the people not ignore the people.

2013-02-06T06:22:51Z perth-public-transport-is-the-top-issue-for-wa-voters-in-the-2013-elections

(Perth, Western Australia)In March 2013, the Western Australian State Government Elections will take place sparking discussions on how to best create the best future for Perth's public transportation system. According to many polls, solving this issue is the number 1 ticket on the agenda, with WA voters fed up with being a tin can sardine on buses and trains. Marketing Officer of GroupMap, a Perth-based online brainstorming and decision making application in beta, Angela Han, says that many Perth residents do need to have a better public transportation system. Han says, “It comes as no surprise that Perth public transport is a huge issue in the 2013 state elections especially when there it is difficult to find parking in the city during the weekdays and petrol is expensive – sometimes you are better off just using Transperth to get to where you need to go.” Many Perth residents have ideas on how to improve Transperth, however it is up to the Government in power to implement what the people really need. Han says that there are some great ideas from Politicians about how to solve this issue, however there are some terrible ideas. “A terrible idea which merely annoyed Perth residents is the taxi surcharge for having a taxi show up on time – even if the taxis are late which is unfair to the consumer.” As an online brainstorming and decision making tool in beta, GroupMap has created a public brainstorming map for those wishing to share their ideas on how to improve the Perth public transportation system. To participate or view this map, visit http://www.groupmap.com.au/sessions/silky_anteater.

2013-02-02T03:41:43Z acif-critical-of-decision-to-dump-productivity-review

The Australian Construction Industry Forum (ACIF) is critical of the reported decision to mothball the COAG Review Panel on Construction Costs and Productivity. "ACIF had welcomed the Review as a way to focus on opportunities to lift the structural and operational performance of the industry," said Executive Director of ACIF, Peter Barda. "It's a pity that COAG couldn't get this piece of its program right." "The construction industry employs around a million people and generates more than 10% of GDP, and this review had the potential to spotlight ways to deliver more value to all Australians." "We probably shouldn't be surprised at this about face, given the delay in appointing the panel members," Barda said. "But it is very disappointing." "The industry had been waiting for the members of the panel to be announced, as a trigger for the timetable for the review, announced in July 2012, to be implemented.” ACIF and its members are preparing a series of recommendations to lift productivity in the industry, and will be seeking bi-partisan support for them throughout the year. ENDS   Contacts Peter Barda, Executive Director, Australian Construction Industry Forum Phone: 1300 854 543, mobile: 0418 438 550, email: ceo@acif.com.au Pia Argiratos, Marketing Manager, Australian Construction Industry Forum Mobile: 0405 144 314, email pia@acif.com.au More information and resources for media are available from the ACIF website www.acif.com.au at www.acif.com.au/news/media. About ACIF Australian Construction Industry Forum (ACIF) is the meeting place for leaders of the construction industry in Australia. ACIF facilitates and supports an active dialogue between the key players in residential and non-residential building, and engineering construction, other industry groups, and government agencies. ACIF Members are the most significant Associations in the industry, spanning the entire asset creation process from feasibility through design, cost planning, construction and building and management. ACIF harnesses the resources of its Members to research and develop initiatives that benefit businesses of all sizes, from the largest of construction companies to small consultancies. ACIF’s Members are: Airconditioning and Mechanical Contractors Association, Association of Consulting Architects, Australian Constructors Association, Australian Institute of Architects, Australian Institute of Building, Australian Institute of Building Surveyors, Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, Consult Australia, Engineers Australia, Fire Protection Association, Housing Industry Association, Master Builders Australia, National Electrical and Communications Association, National Fire Industry Association, National Precast Concrete Association, Property Council of Australia. About ACIF Forecasts ACIF Forecasts are rolling ten year forecasts of demand across residential, non residential and engineering construction in Australia. The Forecasts are prepared by respected economic modellers and overseen by ACIF’s Construction Forecasting Council, an industry panel of expert analysts and researchers. ACIF Forecasts are used by thousands of professionals each year, from across the full range of stakeholders, from major organisations to small consultancies. Updates to the ACIF Forecasts are released first at ACIF Briefings held around Australia in May and November. More information about ACIF Forecasts is available from www.acif.com.au/forecasts. ACIF Forecasts are available only thanks to the support of the industry including our Sponsors, cbus, Cordell Information, DesignBUILD, Australian Institute of Architects, Engineers Australia, and Property Council of Australia.

2012-10-17T07:36:37Z police-credit-releases-payanyone-mobile-email

Police Credit has released PayAnyone - Mobile Email a convenient and innovative new way to transact. This market-leading mobile payment technology enables Police Credit members to send payments to friends or businesses from their mobile device, simply by providing the recipient's mobile phone number or email address. Police Credit is the first credit union (mutual) to offer this mobile banking feature to its 93,000 members. Once a payment is sent, the recipient will receive an SMS or email from Police Credit containing instructions on how to collect their funds. It's a quick, secure and convenient payment option to split a cafe bill, pay money to friends, colleagues and contractors. PayAnyone - Mobile Email works with most mobile devices with an internet connection, including Android, Blackberry, iPad, iPhone, Nokia and Windows Phones. It’s also the only service which uses web based mobile banking functionality rather than requiring users to download and update software applications. PayAnyone - Mobile Email also allows the sender to cancel their payment at any time prior to funds collection. The PayAnyone - Mobile Email software was developed by Ultradata Australia, a leading provider of banking software to the mutual sector. Peter Kempster, CEO of Police Credit said: "With a member base that is highly mobile, we already have 30,000 members using mobile banking and we expect members to rapidly embrace this technology." Police Credit is a credit union serving Police, Health and Government sectors in Victoria. Police Credit is owned by its 93,000 members, and has assets exceeding $1.1 billion. For more information, visit www.policecredit.com.au/PayAnyone For Media enquiries contact Melanie HydeMarketing & Communications SpecialistPolice Credit 121 Cardigan StreetCarlton Victoria, 3053 

2012-07-26T06:26:00Z 2012-business-monitor-sme-dissatisfaction-with-federal-government-hits-record-high

New research released today by MYOB found almost three in five small to medium business operators were dissatisfied with the Federal Government’s support for helping businesses like theirs succeed. Only one in six were satisfied, according to the study by Australia’s largest provider of business management solutions. Dissatisfaction has soared in the last two and a half years. In the March 2010 MYOB Business Monitor it was felt by 38% of respondents, while the July 2012 report saw it reach 57%. This is the highest level of dissatisfaction recorded since the research began in March 2004 and a rise of five percentage points on March 2012’s report. The proportion of the 1,004 surveyed business owners and managers who were satisfied with government support was low at 17%, but had increased from 11% in March. MYOB CEO Tim Reed says, “The policies recently introduced by the Federal Government appear to have not yet struck a chord with SMEs. The tax loss carry-back scheme is generally seen as positive, but the carbon tax is deeply unpopular amongst business owners. It is difficult to know if these factors are driving their negative view of the government, or whether it is simply that many businesses are doing it tough. Our latest research found few are seeing any improvement in their revenue and most lack confidence in any short term recovery. “With challenges come opportunities. Business managers who continue to innovate and look for new ways to take advantage of opportunities may be able to improve their situation. For example, the tax-free threshold increase to $18,200 should encourage more part time workers to return to the workforce. This could be an opportunity for businesses to improve the skills of their team. Getting online is also a great way to attract new customers.” Respondents in transport, postal and warehousing sectors were the most dissatisfied with Federal Government support (75%), followed by those in finance and insurance (68%) and agriculture, forestry and fishing (58%). Business, professional and property services operators were by far the most satisfied (29%). When comparing results by length of time in business, those in established ventures were the most dissatisfied with its support (70%) and those in start-ups were the most satisfied (33%). Tax loss carry-back scheme welcomed by majority When asked their opinion of the tax loss carry-back scheme introduced in the Federal Budget, 16% felt it would assist in keeping their business afloat, while 25% felt it would help maintain their current level of business activity. 22% said they would welcome it but don’t really need it, 14% didn’t know and 10% said they did not care either way. The remaining 13% said the government should spend its time on other initiatives. Almost half (49%) of medium sized business operators stated the scheme would help maintain their current business levels. They were almost twice as likely than those in smaller businesses to say so, with this 49% comparing to 27% of small businesses, 25% of micro businesses and 24% of sole operators. More than one quarter (26%) of start-ups said it would help keep their business afloat, compared to 11% of those in established businesses. The latter were more likely to state the government should spend its time on other initiatives (20%). Slight increase in satisfaction with State Governments Fewer than half of those surveyed (49%) were dissatisfied with their State Government’s efforts to make things better rather than worse for their business in the last six months. This was a slight drop from the 51% reported in the March 2012 report and well behind the peak dissatisfaction recorded in June 2008 (63%). Further, 16% were satisfied with their State Government’s performance – a slight increase on the 15% in the prior MYOB Business Monitor. 33% were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied, which was steady. NSW VIC QLD SA WA Very dissatisfied 14% 22% 25% 38% 18% Quite dissatisfied 28% 33% 31% 17% 19% Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 37% 27% 32% 33% 36% Quite satisfied 17% 12% 8% 9% 19% Very satisfied 4% 3% 1% 1% 8% Don't know 1% 3% 3% 2% 0% *Note: TAS, NT and ACT were excluded from the above table (though were in the national figures), as they accounted for only 38 respondents. Also note that the survey was completed after the recent QLD election. Queensland business operators were the most dissatisfied (56%), followed by those in South Australia (55%), though there wasn’t a noticeable difference between the states’ results apart from Western Australia. There, only 37% of business operators were dissatisfied and they were the most satisfied of all the respondents (27%). With a new Premier in Queensland since the last survey, Queensland business operators’ level of dissatisfaction had dropped noticeably from 68% in the March 2012 report to 56%. However, this was still the highest result of any state. Satisfaction levels were the lowest of any state, at 9% (compared to 12% in the last report), and one third were neutral on the subject (32%). Nearly two thirds want carbon tax abolished In a new question asking for their desired fate for the carbon tax, almost two thirds of business operators (62%) wanted to see it abolished. There was little difference between the proportion of those who wanted it retained, did not care or were unsure (12 – 13% each). Those most likely to want the carbon tax abolished included: - Business operators aged 60+ years (73% compared to 46% of Gen Y operators) - Rural business operators (72% compared to 55% of metropolitan operators) - Established business operators (69% compared to 54% of start-ups) - Operators outside of Western Australia (65% compared to 48% of those in Western Australia) - Small business operators (67% compared to 48% of those in medium businesses) Mr Reed says, “The carbon tax is now a part of doing business and it does bring some positives. Carbon tax-related financial incentives and programs are available to take advantage of, such as the increased instant tax write-off for business assets. The compensation paid to many households by the government also means this is a good time to be marketing to customers to bring them back to your business.” For MYOB product information, research results, business tips, discussions, customer service and more visit http://myob.com.au, http://my

2012-05-09T03:53:40Z myionu-announce-a-million-dollar-gps-tracking-subsidy-fund

Perth, Western Australia. May 9th 2012. GPS tracking provider, Myionu, today announced a million dollar initiative to provide subsidised GPS tracking equipment and services. The subsidy will be made available to every school and registered disabled person in Australia. Following the successful launch of Myionu, Paul Delaney says, ‘although we already provide a cost effective GPS tracking solution, we wanted to help enable every school and disabled person to have subsidised access to this technology. The subsidy (funded by Myionu), will provide up to a 40% reduction in hardware and service fees.’ The Myionu service delivers real time location based data across a range of devices and smart phones, providing detailed location mapping (which can be viewed from any PC, tablet or smart phone) and alerts in the event of specific actions; which include duress, entry or exit of pre-set boundaries, speeding, along with a range of additional options. The alerts appear on the computer screen as well as sending an automated email to any number of recipients. The purpose of providing these subsidies for schools will enable them to provide parents with the ability to access a secure portal to view the location of the school bus which their child is travelling on. From a security perspective, the school is able to limit access to only those parents who need to view this data. This also provides the school with live tracking and management tools to assist with their duty of care. For the disabled, our technology could provide additional assistance by providing live locations and a range of support alerts, for example where a person leaves or enters specific areas, such as home, work, etc. or is need of help. About Myionu. Myionu is a division of Perth based AffinityOne Pty Ltd, who have been supplying GPS tracking and security products in Australia since 2006. The family owned business has provided GPS tracking solutions to the Corporate Sector and now has expanded their product range to include this developing requirement. A recent study from ABI Research suggests that ‘GPS personal tracking devices and applications are forecast to grow with a CAGR of 40%, with both markets breaking $1 billion in 2017.’ Myionu is positioned at the forefront of this emerging market and are looking to become Australia’s leading provider within this sector.

2012-05-07T15:02:04Z community-organisations-join-fight-against-homophobia

Sydney, May 8 - Several Gay and Lesbian supporting community organisations are marking this May 17th as International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) with a new campaign, targeted at engaging members of the community to become allies to battle homophobia and transphobia. The new campaign, which asks members of the public to make a ‘pledge’ to speak out against prejudice, discrimination, intolerance and hate aims to provide hope for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer and Questioning (LGBTIQQ) young people. “When I heard about the Be My Ally campaign, I immediately knew I had to move quickly to get in touch with the organisers (IDAHO-NSW),” said Rami Mandow, Chairman of The Community Brave Foundation – a new Foundation which aims at reducing online bullying, homophobia, transphobia and youth suicide. “We wanted to partner with IDAHO to deliver a community message, but we didn’t want to be restricted to our small circles.” “So we sent a few emails out amongst our networks and asked a bunch of community organisations to join us,” said Mandow. “Before we knew it, everyone loved the idea and was right on board. We’ve got the teams from It Gets Better Australia, Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras, Twenty10, Guide to Gay, Star Observer and the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Business Association all partaking in this brilliant community message. It’s so simple, yet so effective.” The Be My Ally Idea is the brainchild of Stuart Garske, after having worked three years with the community for IDAHO. The aim of the project is to continue on the conversation about homophobia and transphobia beyond the May 17day of recognition for IDAHO and ensure that communities, schools and workplaces become more tolerant and accepting. “Like many of our fellow community organisations, we have a strong message when it comes to homophobia and transphobia. And that message is that it will not be tolerated anywhere in society,” said Mandow. “That’s why we want to become allies with so many people in our communities to ensure that we are there to help provide resources, tools, information and direction if young people are being subjected to homophobia or transphobia.” “As all of us Community Organisations launch the campaign, I expect to see a whole lot more come on board. Even with the few teasers that we have released through Community Brave, we’ve had four organisations let us know they are interested,” said Mandow. “Based on this, we are hoping that this will trigger a chain reaction of recognition events around the nation to get people to address homophobia and transphobia when it occurs. Self-policing if it can be called this, both online and offline.” IDAHO NSW is a community based initiative made up of individuals, services and organisations dedicated to addressing homophobia, transphobia, intersexphobia, as well as supporting equal rights for LGBTIQQ people. Founded by Stuart Garske in 2012. The Community Brave Foundation is a community volunteer program which has aims to reduce online bullying, homophobia, transphobia and youth suicide using social media as a tool to communicate with young people providing resources, information and referrals. Established in 2012, Community Brave has released several videos featuring members of the public at Mardi Gras and are about to release a series of videos featuring Australian celebrities. For further information about the IDAHO campaign, or to schedule and interview with Rami Mandow or Stuart Garske, please call Rami on +61 416 853 250 or email admin@thecommunitybravefoundation.org

2012-04-04T03:59:27Z australia-s-latest-powerhouse-point-to-point-link

Available exclusively from Madison Technologies, the Alvarion BreezeULTRA is a family of wireless broadband products that operates in the 4.9 to 5.9 GHz band which includes the licence exempt 5.4 and 5.8 GHz bands available in Australia. The ULTRA is available today in high capacity point-to-point (P2P) format. This will soon be followed by the point-to-multipoint (P2MP) version and then a hybrid backhaul-to-multipoint (HB2MP) configuration. This is the flexible growth platform for the future.The BreezeULTRA wireless products are based on a high-power, multi-radio architecture and advanced MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) radio techniques to support extended capacity and coverage.Very high net data throughput of 250 Mbps is achieved with the BreezeULTRA P6000 P2P series. With the dual radio version the capacity is increased even further to a market leading 500Mbps. The dual radio version will also act as a single-box link extender or repeater for applications where a direct link path is not available.BreezeULTRA optimises the performance for applications such as data, voice, or video using quality of service (QoS) to guarantee high-quality voice and to support time-critical applications in parallel for broadband applications such as high-definition video streaming.Contact Madison’s Wireless specialists on 1800 12 22 23 or www.madisontech.com.auTech Specs•Capacity: Transmit voice, video and data at 250 Mbps net per radio•Distance: Range in excess of 40km•Difficult Paths: World leading non-line-of-sight (NLOS) coverage and interference mitigation with OFDM, MIMO and diversity technologies.•Ultra-fast on board packet processing at 80,000 PPS•Optimised performance for voice, video and data using QoS•High power PoE output for powering IP cameras•Capacity upgradable over-the-air via software keys•Latest generation IP radio – platform for the future

2012-01-11T03:03:51Z master-your-zone-of-peak-performance-brain-resource-webinar-this-friday-13th-january-2012-1

Master your Zone of Peak Performance Brain Resource Webinar this Friday 13th January 2012 By Dr Evian Gordon – Chairman & CEO Brain Resource 11 January 2012 The next Brain Resource Webinar, ‘Master your Zone of Peak Performance’ will be held this Friday 13th January 2012 at 1300 ADST Australian time. Hosted by Dr. Evian Gordon, Chairman and CEO of Brain Resource, this Webinar is about how you can find and maintain your Zone of Peak Performance by activating your “flexibility” brain-body system (Vagus parasympathetic Nervous System), and switching off your Fear / Stress system (Fight and Flight reflex), for relentless Positivity and total immersion in the moment. ThisWebinar is part of a weekly series about how youcan: Know yourbrain and Train yournew brain habits. To join the webinar at the following times, please follow the link below. 05 January 18:00 Hours PST – USA / 05 January 21:00 Hours EST - USA 06 January 13:00 Hours ADST – AUS http://brainresource.adobeconnect.com/zone/ To view aired Webinars on Stress Reduction,Positivity, Memory, Focus, Emotion and Feelings or for details on upcoming Webinarsvisit http://www.BrainResource.com/Webinars About Brain Resource Brain Resource (OTC: BRRZY, ASX: BRC) translates new findings about the brain into engaging products for consumers, employers and clinicians to improve cognition and brain function. With offices in Sydney and San Francisco, and agents in Europe and Israel, the company is underpinned by an international consortium of scientists and clinicians that bring together all aspects about the brain that are usually assessed independently. For more information, please visit www.brainresource.com The 1 site that integrates brain solutions, backed by science - www.brainresource.com Media Contact Julian Brophy +61 408 276 749

2011-12-15T21:58:25Z reinsw-asks-the-experts-how-was-2011-and-what-can-we-look-forward-to-in-2012

REINSW asks the experts – how was 2011 and what can we look forward to in 2012? 16 December 2011 The REINSW has released a comprehensive ‘Year in Review’ analysis as well as predictions for the property sector in 2012. Canvassing the views of a range of industry leaders, the findings are available in the December edition of the REINSW Real Estate Journal, available at www.reinsw.com.au/2011and2012 The Journal asked industry leaders to reflect on the challenges and opportunities for real estate in 2011 and offer insights for the year ahead. 2011 in review 1. What do you think was the biggest surprise or trend that had a significant impact on the market and the way real estate agents do business? Looking ahead to 2012 2. What are your predictions for the market in 2012? What do you think real estate agents should be considering to ensure they make the most of the year ahead? Leading real estate experts featured include: Tim McKibbin – CEO, REINSW John McGrath – McGrath Estate Agents, Chief Executive Stephen Nell – Ray White, Chief Executive Officer – NSW Tony Brasier – PRDnationwide, Chairman and Managing Director Phil Rourke – Landmark, State Real Estate Manager, NSW Richard Horne – Knight Frank Australia, National Director Investment Sales Charles Tarbey – Century 21, Chairman Angus Raine – Raine & Horne, Chief Executive Officer Leanne Pilkington – Laing+Simmons General Manager Peter Hanscomb – Belle Property, Chief Executive Officer Malcom Tyson – Colliers International, Managing Director of Residential L Janusz Hooker – LJ Hooker, Chief Executive Officer Jason Roach – Westpac, National Head of Real Estate Andrew Cocks – Richardson & Wrench, Executive Director Steve Murphy – Elders Real Estate, NSW/ACT Franchise Manager Media Contact – Julian Brophy – 0408 276 749