Comment by Peter Roberts Australia’s rush to develop LNG exports is not looking such a smart move with shortages likely extending to the consumer field. While manufacturers have long struggled with high prices and an inability to secure long term gas contracts, the sector has been unable to win the argument against indiscriminate LNG export…
RAAF funding has helped Western Sydney University develop a world-first space camera to be demonstrated publcly for the first time at this year’s Australian International Airshow at Avalon. The Astrosite camera, developed by the university’s International Centre for Neuromorphic Systems (ICNS), can capture images of objects in space with unprecedented temporal resolution, even during the…
Plans by UGL-backed Energy Renaissance to establish a massive lithium ion battery manufacturing facility in Australia have taken another step forward with the company selecting the technology to be used. Energy Renaissance has partnered with Connecticut-based Cadenza Innovation which has developed a novel ‘supercell’ technology which simplifys the manufacturing process and improves energy storage density.…
The New South Wales government has launched a $16 million grants programme aimed at helping manufacturers boost the energy efficiency of their operations. The grants, which are open from today until 30 June, provide up to $120,000 per site, with companies matching the government contribution. They are available for electricity or gas saving projects that:…
The Lucas Heights nuclear reactor and research precinct has expanded to embrace greater interaction with Australian industry. The Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, which runs the OPAL pool reactor, has inaugurated the ANSTO innovation precinct to extend the reach of its unique nuclear capabilities. ANSTO has long performed research for industry using instruments that…
Electric drivetrain technology developer and manufacturer, SEA Electric is to enter the North American truck market. The company announced it would show two trucks at the ‘Work Truck Show’ in Indianapolis and California’s ‘Advanced Clean Transportation Expo’ in the next two months. The two trucks are nearing completion mounted with SEA Technology battery and drive…
Defence and industry officials testifying to Senate estimates this week have cast doubt on the potential benefits to the South Australian economy of Australia’s $50 billion French submarine buy. The most damaging testimony to government assurances came from Defence’s deputy secretary, Stephen Johnson, questioned by SA Senator Penny Wong. While the government has claimed the…
Space and defence industry contractor, Electro Optic Systems (ASX: EOS) has won a contract worth $450 million to supply remotely operated weapons systems to the UAE Navy. The announcement, made at the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi, reflects the exercise of options in a previously announced deal. EOS Group CEO, Ben Greene said:…
The Australian Trade and Investment Commission is focusing on Agriculture 4.0 as it markets local capabilities and products in this fast-developing area. The Agriculture 4.0 theme will help the global agricultural sector to be more profitable, efficient, safe and environmentally friendly, according to Austrade. “These technologies include biotechnology, smart farming, ‘precision for decision’ agriculture, robotics,…
By Helen Hull of First5000 Federal parliament’s Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade has released its report ‘From little things big things grow: Supporting Australian SMEs go global‘ following an inquiry into access to free trade agreements by small and medium enterprises. Among the key recommendations tabled in Parliament is that Free…
