The federal government has announced an updated Australian industry participation policy for 2019 which extends consideration for contracts to the smallest of SMEs. The policy, announced by defence industry minister, Linda Reynolds, introduces a new requirement for contractors to provide detailed commitments on how they will utilise and develop local SMEs. The new policy will…
The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has funded metals company Element 25 (ASX: E25) to trial the use of variable renewable energy in processing manganese. Manganese is produces from its salts through an electrowinning process and normally relies on continuous grid connected sources of electricity. The one million dollar project will involve laboratory testing to…
The first hydrogen produced in Australia using solar energy has been successfully exported to Japan, marking a milestone in what many could believe could be a major new industry. The hydrogen was produced by QUT’s solar cells at Queensland’s Redlands Research Facility, and exported by Japan’s largest petroleum conglomerate, JXTG. Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk applauded the…
Wattle Health Australia (ASX: WHA) is set to become the first in Australia to offer organic A2 nutritional dairy products following signing of an agreement securing a milk supply. The company announced that together with partner Corio Bay Dairy Group it had signed a supply agreement with Organic Dairy Farmers of Australia (ODFA) ODFA is…
Coal gasification company, Leigh Creek Energy (ASX: LCK) emerged from a trading halt on the stock exchange yesterday to announce a massive upgrade to its gas resources. The company, which has been developing in situ gas production at the former Leigh Creek coal field in South Australia, announced proven and probable reserve of 1,153PJ, This…
The federal government has announced $35 million in funding for the new Future Food Systems Cooperative Research Centre which will bring together industry and public sector researchers. The centre was announced in March but the funding, which will be matched by $150 million from the private sector and last for 10 years, was not announced.…
Australian materials developer, Talga Resources (ASX: TLG) has completed positive commercial testing of lithium-ion batteries fabricated with its graphite Talnode-C anode. The tests, one of a number underway with a range of technical and commercial partners, was performed in Italy by IV Electrics, maker of the Lacama electric motorcycle (pictured). The batteries were subjected to…
Perth shipbuilder Austal (ASX: ASB) has continued its run of successes with a $369 million contract to supply two Expeditionary Fast Transport Ships (EPF) the U.S. Navy. This extends the company’s contracts for the twin-hulled vessels to 2022 and will bring to 14 the number in service providing lofistics support. The EPF, one of two…
Comment by Peter Roberts One of Australia’s big four banks has broken ranks and come out swinging against one of the latest trends in record-keeping for business – blockchain. Maria Bellmas, associate director, trade and supply chain product at ANZ, published an article on the company website to pose the question “Is blockchain a false…
High technology defence contractor, Raytheon has begun construction of a $50 million factory, to be known as the Centre for Joint Integration. The company, which holds a number of contracts with Defence, will manufacture a new short-range air defence missile system under a $2.5 billion contract. The system is based on the Raytheon/Kongsberg National Advanced…
