Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: Australian Mines and Metals Association – AMMA

Statement from AREEA CEO Steve Knott AM

AREEA acknowledges the legacy and contribution of Commissioner Christopher Platt who formally retires from the Fair Work Commission on 18 January, marking the end of a significant era for the institution.

During his 10-year tenure, Chris has brought a rare depth of practical experience to the role of Commissioner: as a small business operator, police officer, senior industrial relations practitioner, former Chief Operating Officer of AREEA (then AMMA), and Manager Employee Relations for BHP at Olympic Dam. Combined with his legal training, policy experience and formidable work ethic, it was an exceptional foundation for Commission service.

During his time with AMMA, Chris helped to build our modern industrial relations capability, recruiting and developing talent that continues to influence the organisation today, strengthening its policy and workplace relations expertise, and lifting its credibility with governments and regulators.

Chris’ contribution to the Commission extends well beyond the decisions bearing his name. He has played a direct role in national workplace relations reform, working closely with employer and government representatives on the drafting of the Fair Work Act.

His fingerprints are on key provisions that continue to shape how the Commission operates in practice, reflecting his insistence that the system remain workable for employers while retaining procedural integrity.

Back in 2015, I gave the Employers Welcome on behalf of AMMA and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) at Chris’ ceremonial sitting when he commenced with the Commission.

At the time, I remember saying that the employer organisations and members we represented had no doubt that Chris’s background and style would make him a first-rate member of the Commission.

Chris has been outstanding in the role. Congratulations on a job very well done. We wish Commissioner Platt all the best with the next chapter.

Click here for a PDF copy for this media release, including media contact details.

Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing

A conveyancer who allegedly took more than $350,000 in property deposits held for a client has had her licence cancelled. 

In separate cases, sole trader Tintin James, of Northcote, was holding the funds on behalf of property vendors through her business, Luxe Conveyancing (ACN 621 610 919).  

It is alleged that instead of transferring the 2 deposits to her clients at settlement, James put the money into several accounts held in her own name. 

The Business Licencing Authority has cancelled James and Luxe Conveyancing’s licences. Consumer Affairs Victoria is continuing to investigate the matters. 

The vendors have retrieved their money through successful claims on the Victorian Property Fund. The fund compensates consumers who lose money in certain circumstances, as the result of dealings with a licensed conveyancer or estate agent. 

Property vendors and purchasers who rely on an unlicensed conveyancer or estate agent do not have these protections and face the prospect of losing significant amounts if something goes wrong. 

The Consumer Affairs Victoria website has registers of licensed conveyancers and estate agents, including any conditions affecting their licence.  

Consumer Affairs Victoria Director Nicole Rich urged people buying or selling property not to engage with James or Luxe Conveyancing. 

‘We have serious concerns about the conduct of Ms James and her company. If you have recently done business with her, please contact Consumer Affairs Victoria on 1300 55 81 81.’ 

Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

16 January 2026

Who does this notice affect?

Importers, brokers, operators of approved arrangement sites and biosecurity entry points managing goods subject to biosecurity and/or imported food inspection.

What has changed?

Following industry engagement between May 2024 and August 2025, the department has finalised the Cargo Scheduling Policy (the policy, formerly: Scheduling arrangements for imported cargo inspections policy).

All feedback received…

Source: Tasmania Police

Call for witnesses to dangerous driving in Lindisfarne

Friday, 16 January 2026 – 1:16 pm.

Police are calling for witnesses following a dangerous driving incident on the East Derwent Highway, Lindisfarne this morning.
A stolen red mini was reportedly being driven erratically about 9.15am, in a south-bound direction.
The occupants of the vehicle were taken into custody by police a short time later, and the stolen vehicle has been recovered.
The occupants, a 17-year-old and an 18-year-old, remain in custody, assisting with inquiries.
Anyone who saw the vehicle or its manner of driving is asked to contact South East CIB on 131 444 and quote ESCAD 53-16012026.
Police are also calling for relevant dash cam or other footage.
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au

Source: Tasmania Police

Police urge vigilance following thefts at caravan parks

Friday, 16 January 2026 – 1:09 pm.

Tasmania Police is urging members of the public to take extra care securing their valuables after a recent increase in thefts at caravan parks along the North-West Coast.
Criminals have been targeting high-value items, particularly mountain bikes, with many thefts occurring overnight when bikes are not properly secured.
On 13 January, members of the Western Criminal Investigation Branch investigated the theft of six mountain bikes from the Mersey Bluff Caravan Park.
As a result of the investigation, all six bikes were recovered and returned to their owners.
A 22-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman were arrested and charged in relation to the thefts and other offences committed on the Coast. Both will reappear in court at a later date.
Detective Acting Inspector David Summers said police are reminding the community to take simple steps to protect their property.
“We encourage people to secure their bikes and other valuables with quality locks and store them in a safe location overnight,” he said.
“These thefts are often opportunistic, and taking extra precautions can significantly reduce the risk.”
Anyone with information about suspicious activity in our community is urged to contact police on 131 444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers at crimestopperstas.com.au.

Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

16 January 2026

Who does this notice affect?

Industry stakeholders including importers, approved arrangements, freight forwarders and brokers that deal with imported cut flowers and foliage.

What has changed?

Consignments of fresh cut flowers and foliage found to be infested with live insect pests have the option to be directed for onshore fumigation and release prior to pest identification by an entomologist during select peak periods and holidays in 2026.

…

Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

16 January 2026

Who does this notice affect?

1. Biosecurity industry participants who hold a Class 7.1 approved arrangement for the import of live ornamental fish.
2. Importers of live ornamental fish

Departmental staff who attend the Class 7.1 Approved Arrangement, to inspect and release live ornamental fish undergoing the post arrival quarantine period.

What has changed?

The department has updated the ‘Approved chemicals for ornamental fish…

Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan with Harcourt brigade members Captain Andrew Wilson, Sue Bray, Jess Bell, John Bell, Nathaniel Polhe and Peter Church

The small town of Harcourt, a few kilometres north-east of Castlemaine, was severely impacted by the Ravenswood South fire on Friday 9 January.

Starting on Fogartys Gap Road, the fire travelled south and destroyed more than 50 homes and several businesses. The area was one of the worst hit in Victoria.

Harcourt Captain Andrew Wilson and his crews were at the forefront of the firefight and spent the days protecting the community.

“We went hard on the fires for four days. Everyone’s been pretty busy,” Andrew said.

Despite the number of losses, including some homes belonging to Harcourt brigade members, the brigade remains in good spirits.

“The crew’s doing well. They’re all supporting each other. All their training’s kicked in and they’re all in a good place. They are trying to take off a bit of time at the moment,” Andrew said.

“The support we’re getting from far and wide has been amazing.”

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan and CEO Greg Leach visited Harcourt this week, where the focus is on community recovery and back burning in some of the areas surrounding the town.

“I was able to spend some time talking to our crews and community members to hear their stories, and see the ongoing work needed to protect vital assets,” Jason said.

Watch a video on Facebook of Jason’s visit.

Submitted by	News and Media

Source: ACT Police

Last update: Thursday, 15 January 2026 9:44am

Original publication: Thursday, 15 January 2026 9:44am

Source: ACT Police

Last update: Wednesday, 14 January 2026 5:57pm

Original publication: Wednesday, 14 January 2026 5:57pm