Source: Australian Mines and Metals Association – AMMA
In The Weekend Australian, AREEA CEO Steve Knott says “Australia cannot afford another Claytons review”, as the Government launches its mandatory review into the impact of its Closing Loopholes laws introduced in 2024 and early 2025.
The post Bosses warn against ‘whitewash’: The Weekend Australian appeared first on AREEA.
Source: Government of Western Australia
Northern suburbs residents have joined the City of Wanneroo to celebrate the opening of the $18 million Dordaak Kepup Library and Youth Innovation Hub.
Overlooking Broadview Park in Landsdale, the state-of-the-art facility features a modern
library and youth-focused spaces, including a gaming zone, recording and podcasting studios,
demonstration kitchen and areas for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics
(STEAM) activities.
The facility responds to strong community demand for more places where young people can
learn new skills and connect with others.
The name Dordaak Kepup, meaning Place of Living Waters, was chosen in consultation with
Noongar Elders and community members and reflects the site’s deep cultural significance.
Key rooms within the building also carry meaningful Noongar names, with stories shared
through signage and videos throughout the facility.
In addition to the City’s contribution of $12 million, the project was supported by $6 million
from the WA Government and $380,000 from Lotterywest.
Wanneroo Mayor Linda Aitken, who was joined by Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti and Member
for Landsdale Daniel Pastorelli MLA at the official opening, said it was the culmination of
many years of vision, hard work and collaboration.
“Dordaak Kepup is a powerful symbol of innovation, inclusivity and community spirit,” she said.
“With a focus on STEAM education and activities, Dordaak Kepup was designed with our
growing youth population in mind, giving young people a place to learn, explore and connect.
“At the same time, it remains a modern library for everyone. Libraries are trusted places to
learn and stay connected, and this facility will support residents of all ages, from children
discovering reading to adults learning new skills.
“Thanks to the generous support of the WA Government, we have created an innovative
facility that prepares our young people for the jobs of the future and supports lifelong learning.”
Community members had their first look at Dordaak Kepup, taking part in various activities
such as STEAM workshops, eSports, 3D printing, podcasting, music studio demonstrations
and scavenger hunts.
Mayor Aitken thanked past and present Wanneroo Councillors, and former Member for
Landsdale Margaret Quirk MLA, for helping bring the vision to reality.
For more information on opening hours and programs, visit
wanneroo.wa.gov.au/dordaakkepupprograms
For more information on rooms available to hire, visit
wanneroo.wa.gov.au/dordaakkepuproomhire
Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development
ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb has welcomed the appointment of Dr Ian Oppermann as a Commissioner at the ACCC and the reappointment of Commissioner Anna Brakey for a 5-year term.
Dr Oppermann has been appointed for a 5-year term commencing on 10 December 2025. He has more than 30 years’ experience in the information and communication technology sector and deep knowledge of data, broadband enabled services and technology.
Dr Oppermann recently served as the Data Standards Chair for Digital ID and Consumer Data Right (CDR) and was previously the NSW Government’s inaugural Chief Data Scientist. Dr Oppermann has also held senior management roles in Europe and Australia and is a Non‑Executive Director of Standards Australia.
“I am excited to welcome Ian to the ACCC, where we look forward to drawing on his technological and data acumen including around the use of AI in Government,” ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said.
“Ian is a respected thought leader in the digital economy. His contributions will be invaluable in helping to drive innovation at the ACCC and our data-driven approach to regulation.”
Dr Oppermann holds a Masters of Business Administration from the University of London and a PhD in Mobile Telecommunications from the University of Sydney.
Ms Brakey has been reappointed for a further 5-year term also commencing on 10 December 2025.
Ms Brakey is a significant contributor to the ACCC’s work with a focus on infrastructure regulation, particularly energy and telecommunications, and promoting competition in essential services. She has over 25 years’ experience in the public and private sectors, including senior positions at the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (NSW). She also worked as an economist in the private sector.
“I am delighted that Anna will remain with us for a further term so we can continue to benefit from her deep knowledge and expertise in infrastructure regulation,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.
“The ACCC will continue to be well served by Anna’s commitment to transparency, high-quality analysis and meaningful engagement with stakeholders.”
Ms Brakey will continue to play a key role as chair of the ACCC’s Infrastructure and Communications Committee and the Energy Markets Board.
Dr Oppermann’s appointment fills a position left vacant following the decision of ACCC Commissioner Peter Crone not to seek a further term. Mr Crone will finish with the ACCC on 9 December 2025.
“I am deeply grateful for Peter’s many significant contributions as a Commissioner,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.
“I have valued, and the agency has greatly benefitted from, his trademark economic, policy and commercial insights and expertise across many of our most complex programs and projects.”
“Peter has made important contributions to many aspects of the ACCC’s work, including the Consumer Data Right and Digital ID programs, the OECD Southeast Asia Regional Forum, and our childcare inquiry. We wish him well for his future endeavours.”
Further information about the ACCC’s Chair, Deputy Chair and Commissioners is available at ACCC Chair & Commissioners.
Source: Australian Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry
The Albanese Government has reappointed Anna Brakey and appointed Ian Oppermann as full‑time members of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for a five‑year period.
These appointments will help to ensure one of our most important economic institutions has the talent and expertise it needs to remain strong and effective into the future.
Anna and Ian have done a fantastic job in their current roles and we’re grateful for the commitment they’ve made to the Commission for the next five years.
Ms Brakey was first appointed to the ACCC in December 2020.
She has extensive experience in regulatory economics and public policy with more than 25 years working with regulators, government and in the private sector.
Ms Brakey’s reappointment continues the Government’s strong record of appointing outstanding women for senior public sector roles.
Dr Oppermann is the outgoing Data Standards Chair for Digital ID and the Consumer Data Right.
He has extensive experience in big data and standards setting, including at Standards Australia and the International Electrotechnical Commission.
Dr Oppermann was also the NSW Government’s Chief Data Scientist.
We also thank outgoing Commissioner Peter Crone for his service and for the big contribution he has made as a commissioner over the past five years.
These appointments reinforce the Government’s broader competition reform agenda, which is focused on building a more dynamic, innovative and productive economy for all Australians.
Source: Australian Capital Territory – State Government
As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.
Released 08/12/2025
Canberra Health Services today celebrated 25 years since nurse practitioners were first introduced in Australia with a morning tea recognising their vital role in delivering high-quality, patient-centred care.
Nurse practitioners are highly educated and skilled clinicians who combine advanced nursing expertise with the ability to order diagnostics, prescribe medicines and lead innovative models of care.
Minister for Health, Rachel Stephen-Smith said nurse practitioners have transformed health care in the ACT.
“Nurse practitioners provide advanced, holistic care and reduce barriers for patients. Their expertise improves access to timely treatment and supports people with complex health needs,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.
“Earlier this month, I introduced the Nurse Practitioners Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 to the ACT Legislative Assembly. These changes will enable nurse practitioners to authorise medical cause of death certificates and witness non-written health directions—further recognising their expertise.”
Since the introduction of the first nurse practitioner in sexual health in the ACT in 2005, the profession has grown significantly.
Today, 78 nurse practitioners have nominated the ACT as their principal place of practice. Of these, 42 are employed by Canberra Health Services, working across emergency departments, Walk-in Centres, sexual health clinics, alcohol and drug services, palliative care, and women’s health services, among others.
Their work continues to be associated with improved patient outcomes, reduced hospital presentations and high levels of patient satisfaction.
The ACT Government has committed record investment in health – $1.19 billion in the 2025–26 Budget – to strengthen hospitals and primary care and support workforce sustainability. This includes initiatives to attract and retain skilled clinicians, such as nurse practitioners, and provide opportunities for professional development.
The ACT Government is also committed to the outcomes of the Federal Nurse Practitioner Workforce Plan, which addresses barriers that prevent Nurse Practitioner to work to their full potential.
Today’s event celebrated the dedication and leadership of nurse practitioners over the past 25 years and looked ahead to their continued role in shaping innovative care models for the future.
– Statement ends –
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases
Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture
8 December 2025
All importers, approved arrangement class 19 accredited persons and customs brokers who import or lodge consignments of machinery.
On 8 December 2025, the scope of the Highly Compliant Importer (HCI) scheme will be expanded to include the following goods:
| Eligible commodities | Tariff |
|---|---|
| Used machinery and machinery… |
Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture
8 December 2025
Biosecurity industry participants and accredited persons operating under approved arrangement class 19.2.
On 8 December 2025, the scope of approved arrangement class 19.2 will be expanded to include the following goods:
| Class 19.2 commodity group | Tariff |
|---|---|
| Manufactured articles containing … |
Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture
08 December 2025
Approved arrangements operators who will be required to view and/or update details of their Approved Arrangement via the Approved Arrangement Management Product (AAMP).
Due to scheduled system maintenance, AAMP will be unavailable between 20:00 to 23:30 Friday 12 December 2025 (AEDT).
Clients are advised to await the completion of this maintenance period before attempting to access this…
Source: South Australia County Fire Service
Issued on
07 Dec 2025 17:41
The CFS has responded to a vehicle fire near Yaninee, 15km north of Wudinna in Eastern Eyre Peninsula, South Australia.
CFS volunteers on 5 trucks, supported by SA Police, are on scene working to put out the fire which extended into surrounding grass. Crews have prevented the fire from spreading to adjacent properties. Firefighters will remain on scene into this afternoon and tonight to continue working to extinguish the fire and ensure the scene remains safe.
The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, the highway has been closed due to this incident and it is unknown when it will be reopened.
Smoke is impacting the Eyre Highway and visibility may be reduced. To ensure your safety and that of firefighters and other emergency personnel who are working in the area, please do not enter the area unless necessary..
Message ID 0008781
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police have arrested two youths in relation to a series of aggravated burglaries and ram-raids carried out in the early hours of yesterday morning.
Police allege that around 12:45am yesterday, a group of youths forced entry to a business on Maloney Street, stealing multiple sets of car keys before leaving in three stolen vehicles.
In the hours that followed, the offenders allegedly engaged in a series of dangerous and destructive incidents, including:
Later yesterday morning a 16-year-old male was arrested after a foot chase by general duties officers.
A second male, also aged 16, was arrested by Tennant Creek and Southern Investigations members at 10:20am this morning.
Both are expected to be charged with a range of offences, including Aggravated Burglary and multiple counts of ram-raid.
Two of the 3 stolen vehicles have been recovered.
Police continue to investigate and are working to locate additional co-offenders who are expected to face similar charges.
Anyone with information that may assist is urged to contact Police on 131 444 and quote reference number P25329551, or people can report anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.