Media

Incitec Pivot chief executive James Fazzino has slammed the nation’s lack of an energy policy as “a train wreck” and says companies are shunning local growth projects because Australia is not an attractive place to invest.

Australia's chief scientist has unveiled an ambitious agenda for change to increase the focus on science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) skills to help secure the country's future prosperity.

A research hub bringing together the best and brightest scientists and engineers from Australia’s steel manufacturers and research institutions to drive industry innovation and improve global competitiveness was launched in Canberra today.

Applications are now open for the new $50 million Manufacturing Transition Programme, aimed at businesses investing in higher-value manufacturing.

Victorians are facing a bigger shock from higher gas prices – just as relief looms from electricity price rises – because they use a lot more gas than households in other states.

Manufacturing investment has decreased in 9 of the last 11 quarters - a fall of about 43 per cent. As a proportion of total investment, investment in manufacturing now sits at 5.5 per cent. It has never been lower.

Biscuit maker Arnott’s is slashing 120 staff from its Marleston bakery facility.

Employer groups are urging Joe Hockey to start the Productivity Commission inquiry into the Fair Work Act as soon as possible to ensure there is ­adequate time for public debate about any proposed changes to the workplace laws.

The Australian's social affairs editor Bernard Salt writes about the trend towards 're-shoring' by which global manufacturers are abandoning China in favour of the US. Will Australia get a piece of the aciton?

Manufacturing Australia Executive Director Ben Eade talks to Radio National's Background Briefing about the impact of gas prices on industry.