AusBiz December 2023-January 2024

December 2023/January 2024

NEWS | SCIENCE | mining | agriculture | charity | finance

P.62 ausbiz. news P.68 the power of hemp P.72 meta’s new ai features p.78 education special P.80 the housing supply crisis p.92 three amazing charities p.96 a peculiar possum discovery

84. MINING: THE ROAD AHEAD The mining industry drives Australia’s economy.

We take a look at what the future holds for mining in Queensland and Western Australia in 2024.

AUSBIZ NEWS

CHINA CONSIDERS EASING IMPORT TAX ON AUSSIE WINE After a breakthrough in negotiations between officials, China has agreed to reassess the import duties it placed on Australian wine in 2020. This would be a major relief for Aussie wine producers, who have been struggling in an increasingly volatile market. words: Matilda Meikle

of living pressures, decline in wine consumption, and taxes such as the ones imposed by China.

In a recent report, Wine Australia suggested that “exceptionally tough global trading conditions have prevailed since 2020,” highlighting the importance of exports for the Australian economy.

THE NEXT STEPS

AN EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT Mark Bourne, NSW Wine Industry Association President, announced on 23 October 2023 that Prime Minister Albanese had entered into talks with China. The aim was to review the duties placed on Australian wine, which are currently sitting at 220 per cent.

“This is an encouraging step forward that will hopefully lead to the removal of Chinese import duties on Australian wine,” said Bourne.

“It is a very difficult time for the wine industry. Following several seasons of challenging weather events and the COVID-19 pandemic, we are now facing worldwide falling consumer demands and an oversupply of wine.

The announcement of a potential pathway to resolve the multi-year

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trade dispute and the reopening of the Chinese market is positive news for many grape growers and winemakers across New South Wales.”

MARKET ASSESSMENT While Australia’s wine exports to China were previously worth $1.2 billion a year, this has been steadily declining since the introduction of import duties in 2020. In fact, within the first year of this tax, sales to China dropped by 97 per cent.

According to the Wine Australia Export Approvals Database, Australia exported around 62 million litres of wine between 2021-22, valued at $2.31 billion. However, it also reports that the 2022-23 exports declined to $1.79 billion.

This can be attributed to a number of causes including cost

Experts believe that it may take the Chinese government up to five months to review its current taxes.

It has also been reported that Australia’s case against China with the World Trade Organisation, which claims that China’s anti-dumping and countervailing methods aren’t in alignment with the current trade agreement, will come to an end if the duties are removed.

Leaders wish to see a mutually beneficial agreement between the two countries.

“NSW Wine has been active in supporting engagement with China that reaches beyond just commerce.

Particularly at an industry-to-industry level and in promoting collaboration in research, technology and sustainability which has all added to increasingly positive dialogue between Australia and China,” says Bourne.

“Under the current circumstances, we are hopeful that the proposed approach is the best way for the Australian wine industry to achieve its desired result within the shortest time frame.”

AUSBIZ NEWS

Genetic breakthrough in pest control

A groundbreaking discovery in genetic biocontrol offers an ethical and nonlethal method to manage invasive mammal pests, as presented during a briefing at the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute.

Hosted by the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions and the University of Adelaide, this research introduces a world-first gene drive technology that induces female infertility in mouse populations, providing a humane approach to pest control. The implications of this breakthrough extend to managing other pests like rabbits and feral cats, which are major threats to native wildlife and agriculture in Australia, costing approximately $25 billion annually.

Andreas Glanznig, CEO of the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions, emphasised the significance of this research for safeguarding Australia’s ecosystems and agricultural sector.

He says, “It’s clear that new tools that are safe, species-specific and nontoxic are urgently needed as 21st century solutions to deliver landscape scale control of target pests. This new gene drive strategy has the potential to do that, allowing significant benefits to flow through to our environment, livestock industries and broader community.”

Professor Paul Thomas from the University of Adelaide led the research, and highlights its potential to revolutionise vertebrate pest management worldwide. Collaborations with international partners are envisioned to further develop and deploy this technology, along with providing additional funding.

LONELY AT THE TOP According to the Social Connection in Australia 2023 report, more than 50 per cent of entrepreneurs experience loneliness. These feelings of isolation are also evident in a number of workers across several industries, and have been heightened due to the remote working model brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, and lack of time for face-to-face social interaction.

According to Dr Shea Fan, Senior Lecturer in Management at RMIT University, “While loneliness is well-discussed as a social phenomenon, it is rarely seen as a work phenomenon… Work conditions may cause social isolation, distort interpersonal relationships, and prevent

employees from developing or maintaining social connections.”

Dr Fan believes the most susceptible groups include CEOs, entrepreneurs, and remote and gig workers. This is because they are often socially and psychologically distanced from others within their business and working community.

Feeling isolated can lead to increased employee absences, reducing the productivity of businesses and damaging the company as a whole, as well as having negative impacts on individuals’ mental health.

However, while loneliness is a common reality in Australian workplaces, there are limited resources to help workers deal with these complex feelings. Dr Fan wants to educate the public so that those suffering can feel more connected and seen.

“Organisations can offer a variety of social opportunities within or across organisational units to encourage employee socialisation. These include mentoring programs, support programs, social events, coffee breaks, holiday celebrations and team-building activities.

“These investments in alleviating workplace loneliness will result in employees having a stronger sense of belonging to organisations and being more productive.”

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TECHNOLOGY

ENVIRADA’S TECH SOLUTIONS: ADDRESSING WATER SCARCITY AND FLOOD RISKS

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TECHNOLOGY

Australia confronts a dual environmental challenge: increasing water scarcity and heightened flood risks. A growing population drives elevated food and water demand, exacerbating water scarcity amid hotter and drier climates.

Simultaneously, increased rainfall intensity poses a flood risk, especially as more people inhabit flood plains.

To address these issues, Australia requires comprehensive water efficiency systems to combat scarcity, and a robust disaster management system to cope with heightened variability and flooding, emphasising the urgent need for sustainable water management strategies in the face of evolving environmental dynamics.

Envirada, driven by a commitment to environmental stewardship and technological innovation, addresses Australia’s dual environmental challenge. Navigating the intricate relationships among growers, governments, corporations and communities, the company stands on the frontline with a clear mission: to enhance industry productivity and uplift community resources.

At the core of Envirada’s strategy is a blend of market-leading hardware and technology platforms. Powered by specialised business units, including UPTON and Aquamonix, Envirada offers tailored solutions to tackle evolving environmental dynamics and promote sustainable water management strategies in Australia.

WATER SCARCITY Upton’s Linear Irrigators

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: INSTALLATION OF FLOOD WARNING SIRENS; MURRAY RIVER; FLOOD WARNING CAMERAS. IMAGES: SUPPLIED.

In addressing the critical water needs of modern farming, Upton Agtech takes centre stage with its innovative approach to irrigation. Through the production of locally manufactured Linear Move Irrigators, Upton Engineering has become a key player in the transformation of unproductive farmland into highly productive areas. Made from over 90 per cent local Australian content,

these irrigators utilise wide throw sprinklers to achieve low-pressure, highly efficient water distribution.

By incorporating features like hose drag models with Australian Crusader lay flat hose, Upton’s irrigators offer operational flexibility, contributing significantly to reduced water requirements compared to traditional methods.

Designed and built in Corowa NSW, these machines ensure a lower total cost than imported alternatives.

With precision GPS guidance options and the capacity to cover extensive areas, Upton’s Linear Move Irrigators stand as a sustainable solution, aligning with the imperative to enhance agricultural productivity while minimising water usage.

Aquamonix – Assisting Goulburn Murray Water Goulburn Murray Water (GMW), Australia’s largest rural water corporation, has recently undertaken a monumental water savings project, addressing the crucial need for sustainable water use in the nation’s food bowl. With a total investment exceeding $2 billion, this initiative responds to the lessons learned from the Millennium Drought.

The project, spanning a decade, achieved a remarkable water savings target of 429GL in 2020.

Through strategic upgrades involving plastic lining of backbone channels, the installation of over 10,000 Australian-made Aquamonix EMFLUX Mag Flow Meters, and the automation of irrigation channels, GMW has significantly reduced water losses caused by seepage, evaporation, meter errors and water theft. The incorporation of purposebuilt flow meters, solar-powered solutions and seamless integration with telemetry and control systems has enhanced water delivery efficiency from 70 per cent to at least 85 per cent. Landholders now benefit from accurate meters, real-time automated DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 65

TECHNOLOGY LEFT TO RIGHT: FLOOD WARNING SIGNAGE; UPTON LINEAR IRRIGATOR. IMAGES: SUPPLIED.

control and improved efficiency and security in water deliveries, marking a substantial leap forward in sustainable water management.

FLOOD RISK Aquamonix Solutions Aquamonix offers a comprehensive suite of flood warning systems, encompassing Flooded Road Warning Signs with variable message signs and boom gates, Flood Early Warning Stations equipped with cameras and sensors, Flood Warning Sirens for advanced mass notification, and strategically positioned Flood Cameras powered by solar energy to provide crucial images. All these technologies are seamlessly integrated into the Envault platform, a robust webenabled data management solution.

The cloud-based platform provides flexibility, enabling users to manage and access data from anywhere, facilitating control at their fingertips for insightful monitoring, planning, and decision-making. During periods of intense rainfall in Queensland, this integrated system played a pivotal role by providing critical information to clients, the public, and disaster personnel 24 hours a day. Envault demonstrated its effectiveness by delivering imagery and data over 12 million times during the rain and subsequent flooding. Collectively,

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“As we navigate evolving environmental dynamics, the commitment to technological solutions remains crucial for securing a resilient and sustainable water future.” these technologies significantly contribute to enhancing community resilience and enabling an effective disaster response to flood events.

Recently, Aquamonix partnered with local councils as well as the Bureau of Meterology (BOM) to provide them with flood warning solutions.

The BOM project will see more than 380 stations installed / upgraded across Australia, increasing early flood warning awareness & protecting communities.

Looking to the future, the continued development and adoption of technology stand as our primary arsenal in staying ahead of the challenges posed by increasing water scarcity and heightened flood risks in Australia. The integration of innovative solutions, such as UPTON's locally manufactured Linear Irrigators and Aquamonix's flood warning systems, exemplifies the

transformative power of technology in addressing complex environmental issues. These advancements not only enhance agricultural productivity and water management efficiency but also contribute significantly to sustainable practices. As we navigate evolving environmental dynamics, the commitment to technological solutions remains crucial for securing a resilient and sustainable water future.

Wolfgang Pruckner CEO of Envirada, remarks on the fact that “at the federal, state and local council level, private and public interest, there is a willingness to take care of our environment. We understand the need, and we are proud to be world leading in this space. As we look to the future, we want to assist in the wellbeing of natural resources across the mining and agriculture sectors, we need to harness technology in prevention to minimise impact.”

AUSBIZ NEWS

Resilient retail The Australian government has announced a series of policies aimed at developing resilience in the retail sector.

The decision is supported by the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), who have long advocated for greater support for small businesses, especially when it comes to digital competency and responding to volatile markets.

The Federal Government will be contributing $7.2 million in funding for a voluntary cyber health program, which will offer free tests of small businesses’ cyber security systems.

They have also launched an initiative providing small businesses with a $20,000 instant asset write-off and 20 per cent bonus in tax deductions if they invest in green energy sources and energy efficient assets.

According to the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, retail is the largest private sector employer in the country, responsible for more than 1.4 million jobs and $420 billion in annual revenue.

CEO of ARA, Paul Zahra, believes that the government’s increased focus on small businesses can only benefit the economy as a whole.

“Our small retail community is feeling the crunch as shoppers scrutinise their spending and costs continue to increase across the board – wages, rent, utilities, insurances, and supply chain costs,” he says.

“Both state and federal governments have shown that SMB viability is on their radar, so we hope they’ll use this momentum to continue to provide support and relief for struggling small retailers.”

AUSTRALIA’S RENEWABLE FUTURE The Australian Renewable Energy Association (ARENA) will provide $1.3 million in funding for a renewable hydrogen study in Western Australia.

On behalf of the Australian Government, ARENA is supporting APA Group and Wesfarmers Chemicals, Energy and Fertilisers (WesCEF) for the development of their ‘Parlemia Green Hydrogen Project – Feasibility Study’.

The study will investigate whether it is possible to develop a large-scale renewable hydrogen facility south of Kwinana, WA. The hydrogen produced in this facility will then be transported through a 43-kilometre section of APA’s existing pipelines to deliver clean energy to WesCEF ammonia production facilities in Kwinana.

WesCEF needs hydrogen and natural gas to produce ammonia. As such, the delivery of renewable hydrogen could help them to reduce their overall emissions.

Renewable hydrogen will play a big part in moving Australia towards its net zero goal, allowing the metal and chemical industries to reduce emissions and invest in sustainable practices. As the hydrogen will be transported using existing pipelines, the cost should remain relatively low. However, the economics and

technical requirements of transportation remain the major focus of the feasibility study.

ARENA CEO Darren Miller states that this study is an important step towards a greener future.

“The decarbonisation of the industrial sector is critical to progressing Australia’s 2030 and 2050 net zero targets.

Renewable hydrogen will be vital to cutting emissions in heavy industries.”

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SOWING NEW SEEDS IN THE HEMP INDUSTRY words: Matilda Meikle

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AGRICULTURE

“There are roadblocks to an industry where there is a potential $6 billion market for animal feed alone.”

Major leaders in Australia’s hemp industry are calling for new legislation to promote growth in this mostly untapped market.

In October 2023, Legalise Cannabis MLC Jeremy Buckingham hosted an event at NSW Parliament House to discuss the future of the hemp industry in Australia. Along with his fellow industry leaders, Buckingham believes that hemp could grow into a multibillion-dollar industry if given the chance. But what are the benefits of growing hemp in New South Wales?

And what are the concerns?

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LET'S TALK ECONOMICS NSW is home to 1,200 hectares of land dedicated to hemp cultivation, more than every other Australian state combined. This means more jobs and opportunities for hemp farmers, who can sell their products internationally. Similarly, hemp is used in more than 25,000 products spanning nine sub-markets.

This includes everything from agriculture to fencing to medicine.

The President of the Australian Industrial Hemp Alliance, James Vosper, emphasises the economic benefits of expanding hemp cultivation in NSW. “There are roadblocks to an industry where there is a potential $6 billion market for animal feed alone,” he says.

Growing hemp has been legal in NSW since 2008, and the industry has been steadily expanding since then. According to a report from The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, the global hemp market could reach $18.6 billion by 2027, which is around four times higher than in 2020.

GREEN THUMBS The hemp plant consists of two main components: the bark, which is made up of fibres used in textiles; and the hurd, which is used in mulch products.

It is known as a ‘low input’ crop, due to its ability to grow throughout the country while benefiting the soil and biota. In fact, hemp has been planted DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 69

AGRICULTURE

“The hemp industry is very much in its infancy in NSW but the potential for the state economy, and for jobs in regional areas, is largely untapped.” in contaminated soils as it can extract heavy metals and other toxins from the ground.

Other environmental benefits of hemp include its carbon sequestering capabilities. Hemp plants can sequester carbon at 50 times the rate of timber. Similarly, as all parts of the plant can be used once harvested, growing it can reduce waste. It’s fast growing, and versatile in a variety of weather conditions.

A WAY FORWARD Currently, hemp can only be grown

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in Australia under a licence issued by a state government. In NSW, the handling and sale of hemp products, such as seeds, also requires a licence.

All plants bred in NSW must have tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels below 1 per cent.

According to Buckingham, “the hemp industry is very much in its infancy in NSW but the potential for the state economy, and for jobs in regional areas, is largely untapped.”

In the recent meeting with key state officials, hemp industry leaders asked for more relaxed legislation in the

hopes that production will expand.

Tim Schmidt, President of the Australian Hemp Council, stated that the meeting focused on the future of hemp legislation and support of farmers.

“We look forward to continuing dialogue and securing support for important initiatives,” he says.

“These include deregulating hemp seed oil products for pet food, hemp products for food and beverages as well as further investing in research, advocacy and developing industry standards.”

Dialogue also centred around whether hemp production could help communities work towards a greener, more sustainable future. It remains to be seen how these discussions will impact future legislation and policy, but the conversation has certainly begun.

FOOD WASTE

BUYING FUGLY FOR FARMERS

Food waste is a $20 billion problem and while the climate impact of food waste is significant, the ones really bearing the weight of this cost are farmers.

So much hard, back-breaking farm labour goes to waste, and often for the silliest of reasons. But there are things that we can all do that not only benefit our dinner plates, but go a long way to helping our farmers, too.

Good & Fugly, the food waste fighting social initiative, recently published The Farm To Supermarket Food Waste Report 2023 – the first in-depth research into the impact that food waste has on Aussie farmers.

You may already know that 8 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions are caused by food waste. What you might not be aware of is that food waste threatens the viability of Australian farmers, too.

And so much of that food waste is totally preventable. Much of it is food that has no supermarket buyer because it’s not pretty enough. As this report shows, by giving farmers the

opportunity to sell this produce, not only are you helping to save the environment, but you’re helping to save Australian agriculture, too.

First, the big, scary figures: 68 per cent of farmers reported that the single most common cause of food waste in the supply chain is, incredibly, ‘appearance.’ By contrast, only 26 per cent reported that produce is rejected due to ripeness, and 9 per cent that pest infestation is a reason. Those two things would make sense since they

compromise the flavour and may pose a health risk. Appearance, however, is not.

When produce is rejected, farmers often have little choice but to give it away (to the same supermarkets who rejected it, no less) for free. Twentythree per cent of farmers reported that supermarkets expect them to hand over the rejected produce for free.

Otherwise, they often find themselves selling it at a steep discount (35 per cent). A further 19 per cent throw the produce away (immediately creating food waste).

The silver lining is that 37 per cent of farmers can find an alternate buyer for the produce. This is where services like Good & Fugly come in: to help create those alternative pathways that farmers so clearly need. Good & Fugly pays farmers a fair price for their imperfect produce and delivers it straight to your door in fresh, delicious, curated boxes.

So, if you’re interested in finding out more about Australia’s food waste issue and the clever Australian start-up helping to solve the problem, head to www.goodandfugly.com.au.

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TECHNOLOGY

UNPACKING THE NEW META AI CAPABILITIES Words: Matilda Meikle

THIS PAGE: THE NEW META AI CAPABILITIES WILL CHANGE OUR ONLINE EXPERIENCES.

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TECHNOLOGY

Social media giant Meta Platforms has announced a suite of new Articial Intelligence (AI) tools to be added across its apps.

The new features have sparked a debate around the role of AI in challenging notions of transparency and privacy.

While the tools are intended to streamline online engagement, experts are stressing the need to assess all aspects of the program and remain informed about what it means for your data.

TECHNOLOGY REIMAGINED According to Meltwater, a leading media, consumer and sales intelligence service, 21.3 million Australians use social media every day. Of this, 63 per cent use Facebook Messenger, 55.5 per cent use Instagram, and 34.7 per cent use WhatsApp. All of these services are controlled by Meta.

Now, thanks to new AI tools, everyone using Meta will have access to a range of fresh features.

This includes the ability to edit images by changing the style and background of photos. Meta has also developed a conversational assistant that offers real-time information collected from Bing and creates photorealistic images from text prompts.

Not only will individuals have access to a primary chatbot, but 28 other chatbots as well. These AI bots all have unique personalities voiced by celebrities such as Snoop Dogg and Kendall Jenner.

The aim of these new features, according to Meta, is to increase our ability to connect with one another. It wants to foster

creativity and protection.

AI Studio, a platform where developers and creators can build their own AI programs, has been designed to benefit small businesses by increasing engagement with customers and growing their databases. Similarly, it is hoped that creators will be able to diversify their content.

QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS However, while Meta’s features have several positive implications, experts are concerned about what these developments mean for our right to privacy and information.

Meta has confirmed that elements of individuals’ conversations with the AI chatbot may be shared with partners including search providers. The AI is also built off a foundation of information collected before 2023, meaning some of the answers provided by the program will be out of date.

According to Associate Professor Sam Kirshner from the UNSW School of Information Systems and Technology Management, it’s important to recognise that AI is no more reliable than traditional methods of information gathering.

“Historically, our digital consumption was tied to specific sources like websites or blogs, where access was provided through search or newsfeed algorithms,” he explains.

“While Conversational AI will now start pulling information from websites, responses will likely still be underpinned by the foundational models and training datasets, meaning that the information presented can

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TECHNOLOGY

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THIS PAGE: OUR SOCIAL MEDIA WILL BE MORE STREAMLINED; THE FEATURES ARE SIMILAR TO CHATGPT.

“Generative AI may push us to redefine authenticity, which may emphasise intent over factual accuracy. This evolution highlights the importance of transparency in AI-driven creations, and for consumers to be well-informed.” be unique to each individual user. Chatbots will likely result in hyper-personalised responses and conversations. Consequently, two users might walk away with starkly different interpretations of the same topic.”

Kirschner stresses that information collected by chatbots will be just as biased to our individual thoughts and beliefs as the information currently available through search engines.

Dr Sebastian Sequoiah-Grayson, from UNSW School of Computer Science and Engineering, suggests that AI is still a new concept being introduced into our everyday lives, and thus it’s important to be critical.

“Like any new pervasive technological breakthrough, AI will pose both risks and opportunities,” he says. “Although many of these will be anticipated, many also will

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be things of genuine surprise – existing outside the space of our expectations.”

He emphasises that AI will have “a profound impact on our understanding of testimony, identity, authorship, reasoning, understanding, and personhood.

Our attitudes towards all of these things, and many more besides, will slide.”

A NEW AGE Luckily, Meta is aware of the risks and challenges posed by its new AI program, and has begun implementing strategies to protect users.

For example, all AI-edited images will contain a watermark to indicate the use of AI, stopping the product from being passed off as humangenerated content. Meta is also

exploring how markers, both visible and invisible, can be used to identify AI messages and texts.

When using the chatbot, Meta has introduced safeguards that allow users to delete their conversations from the database. Similarly, the company has launched a Generative AI Privacy Guide which will help to keep the public informed about how its AI is developed and implemented.

Kirshner acknowledges these efforts to maintain transparency. He believes that it’s a matter of continuously monitoring the progress and impact of AI, and updating our policies to respond.

“AI risks fragmenting our collective understanding, as the very fabric of shared digital information diversifies based on individualised AI interactions,” he explains.

“Generative AI may push us to redefine authenticity, which may emphasise intent over factual accuracy. This evolution highlights the importance of transparency in AI-driven creations, and for consumers to be well-informed.”

Meta is actively taking steps to address these issues. However, only time will tell whether Meta’s efforts to create transparent and responsible AI are effective.

Catherine Manuell Design in collaboration wirth artist Mim Cole – celebrating our Aboriginal Women Artists project. Working with wonderful Aboriginal women artists from creative communities around Australia.

A percentage of all sales goes directly to the artists.

Colourful designs for our everyday, colourful travels. Showcasing Australian women artists’ paintings, and other vibrant collections!

Clockwise from top left: Overnight Bowler in Elements print; the four Mim Cole prints in Toiletry Bags; a Roma Tote in Community Unity held by Mim Cole in bottom right picture; and Everyday Purses – prints shown here are from left to right, Elements, Billabong, Family Love and Community Unity – held up by Mim to the Darwin sun.

Catherine Manuell Design is a member of the Indigenous Art Code. info@catherinemanuelldesign.com Mobile: 0492 819 527 Look at our website for more of our artists’ collaborations and designs and to find our colourful stockists. www.catherinemanuelldesign.com

SHAPE THE FUTURE WITH POSITION PARTNERS REDEFINED With world-class automation + positioning technologies that keep your people machines and assets safe.

Learn more and get in touch today

aptella.com

APTELLA

Position Partners to rebrand as Aptella Intelligent positioning and automation solutions provider announces new name and brand launching early 2024, in response to employee and customer input.

Formed in 2008, Position Partners was created when five successful Australian state-based businesses joined forces after listening to customers who wanted to work with a unified, national company.

Fifteen years on, the firm has taken similar steps and will rebrand the organisation to Aptella, reflecting the breadth of automation and positioning solutions and services the company offers.

With locations throughout Australia, Southeast Asia and New Zealand, the business supports the civil

construction, building, mining and geospatial industries with worldleading technology solutions.

As emerging systems develop in automation, robotics and augmented positioning for smart cities, the Aptella team will continue to work collaboratively to understand project challenges and opportunities, innovate solutions and partner with customers for the long term.

“The Position Partners name and brand has served us well,” said Martin Nix, CEO. “Sentiment from our employees and customers was that

the time was right for a fresh new identity to better represent the experiences people can expect from us as their vital technology provider.”

The company is currently transitioning the brand with new signage, apparel and other marketing collateral to be rolled out in the coming months. The business will continue as Position Partners until late January 2024, when it will begin trading as Aptella. As there is no change to legal entities, all existing contracts and agreements do not need to change.

“Our team is energised and ready to engage with customers and partners in the New Year as Aptella,” said Gina Velde, Marketing Communications Executive Manager. “While the name and branding are changing, the core aspects of our business and what people love about us remain as strong as ever.”

For more information, please contact the Aptella team on 1300 867 266 or visit aptella.com.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 77

Favourite thing about Boarding:

Living with all types of boys and learning new things every day.

In Daniel’s spare time, he likes:

Reading, working on my footy skills, going to the gym, playing football and rugby for Nudgee.

Favourite thing about Boarding:

Hanging out with my friends 24/7.

In Grady’s spare time, he likes:

Fishing, playing golf, going for a kick with my mates, playing rugby and cricket for Nudgee.

Favourite thing about Boarding:

Being with my friends all the time and the activities we get to do on the weekend.

In Eddie’s spare time, he likes:

Driving tractors, playing touch footy, rowing and playing rugby and volleyball for Nudgee.

St Joseph’s Nudgee College

Pictured: St Joseph’s Nudgee College Boarding Village

NUDGEE COLLEGE BOARDING:

WHERE BRISBANE IS HOME TOO

St Joseph’s Nudgee College is a leading Catholic boys school, located in Brisbane’s northern suburbs. More than 1,700 young men from Years 5 to 12 call Nudgee College their school. For 300 of these students, who hail anywhere from the bush to Papua New Guinea and back, it is also their home as boarders. With one of the most comprehensive pastoral care systems in the Australian boarding community, the team work hard to ensure young men are supported from the day they move into the Bathersby Boarding Village, to the day they embark on their next life journey.

The four Houses within the Boarding Village are led by a Head of House, two Assistant Heads and a House Mother. Each Head of House, in collaboration with their ‘team’ work with boys and their families to meet the students individual needs whilst the House Mother provides a nurturing, guiding influence for all boarders under their care. In addition, the boys are also supported physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually by College counsellors, psychologists, their day school House Dean, academic tutors, recreation staff, kitchen and laundry staff, registered nurses in the Health Centre and many other staff who make the boys’ best interests their priority.

The team firmly believes that there is strength in numbers, which makes

the network of care one of the College’s greatest assets.

Dean of Boarding Mr Casey Brealy said, “what makes us truly distinctive is the wonderful people that look after the boys in our community. We are blessed to have a diverse and dedicated team that is committed to the 24-hour care, support and formation of our young men.”

2024 College Vice-Captain and member of Waterford Boarding House, Grady, began his boarding journey in Year 10. Hailing from Proserpine, Grady seamlessly settled into life in boarding as “there’s so many people around to help you out.”

Ethan from the Sunshine Coast, who joined boarding last year in Year 7, said “in the first week or so it was a bit challenging as I got a bit homesick but people like Mr Brealy and my House Mum made me feel like it was home here.”

With an array of people in their corner, boarders can focus on fully immersing themselves in boarding life. Blessed with world-class facilities in their backyard and a plethora of activities and traditions to be a part of, boys spend their outside school hours and weekends anywhere from getting support in their academics, fishing in the dam, watching a rugby match at Suncorp Stadium, learning to bake or practicing the school cheer during Rock Around the Clock.

Nudgee College becomes far more than just a ‘school’ for these boarders and the boarding team are dedicated to ensuring each boy is known personally, valued greatly, encouraged frequently, challenged appropriately and enjoys every aspect of their journey. As Daniel, a Year 11 boarder from Papua New Guinea, aptly puts, for any new family considering boarding for their son, “they’re in the right hands and he has a bright future at Nudgee College”.

If you’re interested in finding out more information or taking a tour, please contact our

Admissions team on (07) 3865 0422 or visit nudgee.com/boarding

PROPERTY

UNDERSTANDING AUSTRALIA’S HOUSING SUPPLY CRISIS Words: Matilda Meikle

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PROPERTY

Housing supply continues to be impacted by Australia’s cost of living crisis.

New data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics suggests that Australia will need to significantly increase its housing supply to meet demands from a growing population over the next few years. But what exactly is the issue? And what is being done to support Aussies?

WHAT IS THE PROBLEM? The Australian Bureau of Statistics August Building Approvals and Home Lending data has indicated that while some improvements are being made, adequate levels of housing and new developments are yet to be reached in Australia. Housing supply is suboptimal, and won’t be able to keep up with Australia’s growing population at current rates of development.

While the Federal Government has recently announced a plan to build 1.2 million homes over five years, beginning in July next year, experts are worried that even this increase won’t be enough.

According to a report from Homelessness Australia, the housing crisis combined with financial hardship means that an additional 1,600 Aussies find themselves homeless each month.

WHY IS THIS HAPPENING? According to Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn, there are a number of factors contributing to this crisis.

“The cost of building homes continues to be inflated through unnecessary delays and barriers including planning impediments, lengthy approvals processes and high developer charges.

“Worse still, the Federal Government risks magnifying costs and regulatory obstacles with its farreaching ‘Closing Loopholes’ Bill.

“The IR Bill means businesses will have even more of their time absorbed by compliance and red tape issues – instead of being out there building new homes.”

WHAT CAN BE DONE? While the current living situation may seem bleak, many experts believe there are solutions to this national problem. It’s important for the government to support the building and construction industry in order to combat our housing crisis.

“Builders and tradies have a big job ahead of them to ensure we can build enough homes to start tackling rental inflation and meeting our Housing Accord objectives,” says Wawn.

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PROPERTY

“Builders and tradies have a big job ahead of them to ensure we can build enough homes to start tackling rental inflation and meeting our Housing Accord objectives.”

“We need to ensure tradies are spending as much time as possible on the tools without unnecessary delays and disruptions.”

Master Builders Australia chief economist Shane Garrett builds on this sentiment, highlighting the 7 per cent increase in the number of new home building approvals in August 2023 as a step in the right direction.

“Both detached houses and higher density home building approvals shared in the expansion up 6 and 8.8 per cent respectively,” he says.

“However, the volume of new approvals is still considerably lower than this time last year.

“Over the year to August 2022, new home building approvals are still down by 13 per cent.”

Garrett believes the best path forward is not outwards, but upwards.

“We still need to see a sustained improvement in the volume of higher density home building in order to relieve inflation which is at 15-year highs.”

By building up rather than out, each new construction project will be more economical, as a higher number

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THIS PAGE: THE GOVERNMENT NEEDS TO SUPPORT BUILDERS; EXPERTS SUGGEST BUILDING UP INSTEAD OF OUT.

of people can find housing as a result. Similarly, it will fast-track the slow process of development.

The National Planning Reform Blueprint, which was recently released by the National Cabinet, encourages the development of high-density housing in areas near public transport.

This incentive is supported by

$3 billion in funding, intended to encourage local and state governments to increase housing supply and affordability.

This funding highlights a greater focus on housing both in the community, and in government, perhaps an indication of broader changes to come.

THIS PAGE: THE SUPER PIT, KALGOORLIEBOULDER. IMAGE: TOURISM WA.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA MINING OUTLOOK 2024 Words: Ian lloyd Neubauer

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MINING

“We remain laser-focused on safety and productivity to remain competitive … at a time when there are new challenges and opportunities.”

Compared to other states, WA suffered fewer negative impacts from the pandemic. But as the most export-dependent state in the country, a weaker global economic outlook, particularly softening conditions in China’s construction sector, presents significant uncertainty.

“Softer Chinese demand for the state’s resources could be a headwind going forward,” NAB chief economist Alan Oster said in the State Economic Overview 2024, in which WA has moved from being the strongest state in the survey to being overtaken by both Queensland and New South Wales.

However, investment in iron ore production remains robust with almost $26 billion invested in the state last year, marking 14 continuous quarters of increased spending. Meanwhile, new mines and mine expansion for rare metals like lithium and cobalt that are required for the green transition, and to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles, promise some insulation against the general downward trend.

We take a good hard look at what’s happening with production and demand for iron ore, gold and lithium in WA to get a picture of the state’s mining outlook for 2024 and beyond.

IRON-CLAD ECONOMY

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Production of iron ore in Australia, 98 per cent of which is hosted by WA, rose 6.2 per cent in the last financial year and is forecast to grow 2.9 per cent in 2024-25, according to the Department of Industry, Sciences and Resources (DISR).

The department also forecasts iron ore exports to rise from 895 million tonnes in the past financial year to 933 million tonnes in the 2023-24 financial year as, “greenfield supply from established and emerging producers is expected to come online.”

But lower prices are expected to undermine Australia’s iron ore export earnings from $124 billion this year to $120 billion in 2023-24, and down to $99 billion in 2024-25. This will be driven by subdued steel demand over the outlook period, not only in China but also by lower demand from European manufacturing and residential construction.

The trend will be partly offset by growth in infrastructure and non-residential construction activity in advanced nations. This explains in part why spending on iron ore mines hadn’t dropped in WA, with BHP, the world’s biggest mining company, reporting its highest ever annual iron ore production in July as it continues to ramp up its South Flank operations in the state.

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MINING CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: GREAT FINGALL MINE. IMAGE: TOURISM WA; MINE EXPANSION FOR RARE METALS IS GROWING; WA IS INVESTING IN THE LITHIUM BATTERY VALUE CHAIN.

“We remain laser-focused on safety and productivity to remain competitive… at a time when there are new challenges and opportunities,” CEO Mike Henry told delegates at the World Mining Congress in Brisbane earlier this year.

Despite reporting a 33 per cent fall in its half-year profit, Rio Tinto, the world’s second-biggest mining company, is also confident in the outlook for demand for its biggest earner iron ore.

“I am fairly optimistic,” CEO Jakob Stausholm told Nine. “Our experience with China is if things are going less well, the Chinese have an impressive ability to also manage the economy.”

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ALL THAT GLITTERS A critical component of the energy transition used to produce batteries, lithium is sometimes referred to as “white gold” due to its light colour and high market value. Australia currently accounts for 47 per cent of global supply, and nearly all of it comes from WA, home to five hardrock lithium mines, including the world’s largest, Greenbushes in the state’s South West. With two more lithium mines under construction in the state and a third in the Northern Territory, Australia’s production of lithium is expected to grow 18 per cent annually until 2030, according to Grand View Research.

But there’s a downside to all this increasing supply: falling prices.

The value of lithium exports, which reached $20 billion in the last financial year, are forecast to fall to $16 billion within the next two years.

Data from the DISR shows 90 per cent of the revenue opportunities for lithium occurs downstream of the mining stage, so WA is investing in Australia’s lithium battery value chain, with three new lithium refineries operating or under construction in the state. A report funded by Regional Development Australia Western Australia estimates the lithium industry could generate over 100,000 new jobs in the state this decade.

But what of the other kind of gold mined in Australia, 60 per cent of which occurs in WA? Newmont’s Boddington mine 140km south of Perth was by far the largest producer this year, and the state is also leading the way in new gold mining projects.

“In the second half of 2023, several projects are due to begin production ... [and] these are all in Western Australia,” Sandra Close, director of gold consultant Surbiton Associates, told Mining Weekly. “And looking further forward, the announcement

by Northern Star of a $1.5-billion program to enable treatment of their 120 million tonnes of lower grade stockpiles will significantly increase output at Kalgoorlie’s Super Pit for years to come.”

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QUEENSLAND MINING OUTLOOK 2024 Words: Ian lloyd Neubauer

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MINING

Queensland’s mining industry is among the most successful on the planet. The state is the world’s largest exporter of seaborne coal, home to over 50 major coal and 100 metalliferous mines, and 12 new mining projects, including five for coal, that are either committed or ‘likely’ to proceed.

But falling demand for coal as the world moves to net zero represents an existential challenge to the state’s resources sector.

We take a look at the paradigm to see what’s happening with coal and other key mining commodities in Queensland in order to get a picture of the state’s mining outlook for next year and beyond.

DECLINE OF COAL After an extraordinary spike in 2022, prices for thermal coal used for electricity generation have stabilised but are expected to fall within the next year or two as the global energy transition continues.

Most of Queensland’s thermal coal exports are shipped to three countries: Japan, South Korea and Taiwan. But the Office of the Chief Economist (OCE) in Canberra forecasts exports to Japan will go into decline over the next two years as more nuclear reactors and offshore wind farms go online there. The OCE also notes Taiwan’s imports “are passing their peak” and that South Korea’s imports are “on a downward trajectory over the long term”.

As demand and prices continue to decline,

the Department of Industry, Sciences and Resources (DISR) has forecast that Australia’s export value for thermal coal will nosedive from a peak above $65 billion in 2022-23 to $28 billion by 2024-25.

Queensland’s specialisation in metallurgical coal used for steelmaking will provide some protection following the end of Chinese restrictions on Australian coal exports. However, Australia has struggled to regain Chinese market share and the International Energy Agency (IEA) expects demand for metallurgical coal will decline if the world cuts emissions. Metallurgical coal exports are projected to fall from $62 billion in 2022-23 to $41 billion by 2024-25, according to the DISR. Ian Macfarlane, CEO of the Queensland Resources Council, believes demand for metallurgical coal will stretch out for another 40 or 50 years. He is also confident demand for thermal coal will continue for years to come. “We are also seeing a strong demand in the materials Queensland produces as we move to net zero, which is a goal we cannot reach without the resources we are currently mining,” he told Inside Mining.

OPPOSITE AND ABOVE: NIGHT INDUSTRY IN QUEENSLAND; ORE CONTAINING COPPER AND NICKEL. IMAGES: ISTOCK/GETTY.

CRITICAL MINERALS There’s a silver lining for declining coal exports due to the decarbonised future: skyrocketing demand for critical minerals like copper, lead, bauxite and zinc. Queensland happens to have some of the world’s DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 89

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THIS PAGE: DISUSED OPEN CUT GOLD MINE AT RAVENSWOOD; QUEENSLAND SUPPLIES 6 PER CENT OF AUSTRALIA’S GOLD. IMAGES: ISTOCK/GETTY.

richest endowments. Of the 12 new mines being built in the state, three are dedicated to their extraction.

The IEA estimates global demand for critical minerals will increase between 300 and 600 per cent as efforts increase to achieve net zero by 2050. Demand will further be supported by government and corporate policies that are favourable towards electric vehicles, and the transition to net zero through sustainable technologies.

“The biggest trend transforming the industry at the moment is of course the move to net zero by 2050,” says Macfarlane.

“The big resources companies that operate in Queensland have set this as an aspirational target and as such are working to reduce their emissions.

BHP has made definite commitments towards using more renewable energy, while Anglo American is experimenting with components like hydrogen and battery trucks to try and lower emissions.”

GOLD IN THEM HILLS No report about mining and the future of mining in Queensland can be complete without looking at gold.

The state continues to supply 6 per cent of Australia’s gold, and while the DISR forecasts gold earnings in Australia will decrease from $24 billion in 2022-23 to around $22 billion in 2024-25, Queensland’s gold earnings are forecast to rise, following the expansion of the Ravenswood Gold Mine 130 kilometres south of Townsville. Ravenswood now supports more than 430 jobs and 220 permanent contractors, and will produce more than 200,00 ounces of gold per year.

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“Not only is this now the largest gold mine in Queensland, but it also deserves a gold medal for how it supports locals and local businesses,” Queensland Resources Minister Scott Stewart says.

A large deposit of high-grade gold has also recently been discovered near Monto, 160 kilometres south of Gladstone, in what is being heralded as a potential gateway to investment and job growth in the region, with

5.5 million tonnes of minerals, including copper and gold, discovered at the site.

“We get pretty excited about discoveries in the state,” Queensland Exploration Council chair Kim Wainwright told the ABC. “But when someone says we’ve got this large discovery, it usually indicates that it’s going to progress through the exploration phase into the mining phase.”

beyond anxiety

AID AND ASSIST WITH THESE AUSSIE CHARITIES

With so many fabulous Australian charities across the country, supporting those in need has never been easier. There are hundreds of organisations that embody the Aussie values of community and generosity, but these three groups stand out as they continue to make a difference.

Words: Matilda Meikle

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CHARITY

THIS PAGE: TOUR DE CURE CYCLISTS OUT ON THE ROAD. IMAGE: TOUR DE CURE.

TOUR DE CURE

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Established in 2007, Tour de Cure seeks to raise money for cancer DONATE HERE research through community bike tours across the country. It is focused on finding a cure for cancer, and supporting the 150,000 Aussies who are diagnosed every year.

As such, Tour de Cure organises transformative bike tours which encourage physical health while also bringing communities together.

Since its founding, it has raised $108 million for cancer research through these events, and supported 801 cancer research projects.

For each successful tour, the charity also donates $10,000 to regional communities. It acknowledges that rural towns may not have access to the same resources and support when it comes to cancer treatment, and makes it a priority to help those suffering in regional areas with day-today expenses, respite care and more.

You don’t even need a bike to make a difference. Each tour also needs baristas, supporters, medical staff and supervisors. The charity encourages everyone to get involved in any way they can. It also provides resources to help individuals educate themselves on the impacts of cancer, and support families as they cope with grief.

In March 2024, Tour de Cure will

undertake a Signature Tour from Hobart to Adelaide. With 110 riders and 31 crew members so far, it’s set to be one of the biggest and most exciting events yet.

WANTA ABORIGINAL CORPORATION Wanta Aboriginal Corporation is dedicated DONATE HERE to forging a brighter future for Indigenous youth in remote communities, and closing the educational gap between Indigenous and nonIndigenous students. Established in 2015 in Yuendumu, Central Australia, Wanta has spread its impact to eight communities in the Northern Territory, where its staff work with local children to develop educational outcomes and foster a love of learning.

The Wanta Academy program seeks to increase participation and attendance in school by offering sport, recreation and cultural activities to Indigenous students. It also provides vocational education opportunities to set them up for employment success in the future.

Every Wanta Academy follows six core pillars. These include promoting cultural engagement by working with community Elders and undertaking bush trips, incentivising students with reward trips, and creating DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 93

CHARITY THIS PAGE: WANTA AIMS TO INCREASE PARTICIPATION AND ENJOYMENT IN SCHOOL FOR INDIGENOUS STUDENTS. IMAGE: WANTA; VOLUNTEER WORKING WITH DONATIONS AT THE BABY GIVE BACK WAREHOUSE. IMAGE: BABY GIVE BACK.

employment opportunities for locals as well as employing at least 50 per cent Indigenous staff. By encouraging engagement with art, music, health and wellbeing, Wanta hopes that Indigenous children will thrive while developing key skills.

In addition to working with children, Wanta also runs three Remote Schools Attendance Strategies (RSAS). Funded by the government, RSAS connects local school staff with families, parents and communities to encourage higher school attendance from students.

These programs are located in Yuendumu, Ntaria and Papunya.

BABY GIVE BACK Baby Give Back is a leading Queensland charity that aims to break the cycle of poverty for disadvantaged and vulnerable families by DONATE HERE providing clean, safe essentials for their newborn babies and children, including everything from nappies and wipes to cots and car seats.

These pre-loved items are donated by community members, before being safety-checked and cleaned by a team of volunteers. Every item is packed

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with love and given a new life with a family in need.

Baby Give Back works closely with social workers in the community to identify families in crisis and provide them with practical, judgement-free support to meet their individual needs, while also helping them to feel a sense of hope, social connection and dignity. Its primary focus is ensuring that every child has a safe and equal start in life, no matter their circumstance.

In less than seven years, Baby Give Back has helped almost 30,000 children and their families facing

a broad range of challenges, including family breakdown, domestic violence, poverty and homelessness.

By re-homing pre-loved baby supplies, the charity encourages environmental awareness and practises a circular economy, aiming to minimise waste and keep products in circulation for as long as possible. Recently, it also launched its Reconciliation Action Plan, in the hopes of developing respectful relationships with Indigenous families and communities and advancing reconciliation efforts nation-wide.

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LAST WORD

THIS PAGE: FEATHERTAILED POSSUMS FROM NEW GUINEA; AN AUSTRALIAN GLIDER.

DIGGING FOR CLUES Words: Matilda Meikle Fossils have revealed that possums found in New Guinea have an ancient ancestor from Australia.

In an article published in Alcherings: An Australasian Journal of Palaeontology, UNSW palaeontologists connected two species of feather-tailed possums, found on opposing sides of the Torres Strait, to a common ancestor from Australia.

The two modern species – the feathertail glider Acrobates pygmaeus in Australia, and feather-tailed possum Distoechurus pennatus in New Guinea – both share prehistoric similarities.

While Distoechurus was initially thought to have originated in New Guinea, new research suggests that it migrated there from Australia.

FOSSIL FINDINGS This startling discovery was the result of research into a fossil at Riversleigh World Heritage Area in Boodjamulla National

Park, Qld. The fossil, labelled as an extinct ancient species, suggests that both groups of modern possums can be traced back at least 25 million years in Australia.

According to lead author of the study, Prue Fabian, “Not much was known about these species in the fossil record and how they related to their modern-day descendants.

“Not only did we find two new species related to the Australian feathertail gliders, the species of Acrobates, but more surprisingly two new species related to the New Guinean modernday feather-tailed possum, Distoechurus pennatus,” she says.

EXCITING EVOLUTION The reasons behind this history can be linked to ancient climates, says the report.

Co-author Emeritus Professor Suzanne Hand explains that New Guinea was mostly underwater millions of years ago.

“At most, New Guinea consisted then of a collection of small, low-lying islands,” she says.

“New Guinea has only risen to the heights it is now over the last 12 million years. And sometime after that mountainbuilding began, animals from Australia were able to colonise that emerging northern portion of the Australian continent which became New Guinea.”

Another factor in the migration and evolution of these animals is the changing climate. As the country began growing hotter and drier, forests opened up.

According to UNSW School of Biological Earth and Environmental Sciences Professor Mike Archer, “Gradually replacing the inland rainforests were sclerophyll forests that were more open. As this occurred, there was an incentive to find safer ways to get from one tree to another without coming down to the ground where something was waiting to gobble you up. This was probably the trigger that led to some groups becoming gliders.”

This also explains why Australia’s possum descendants specifically became gliders, while New Guinea possums did not. Gliding is a response to the need to leap wide gaps between food trees.

In denser rainforests, this skill isn’t necessary because the trees are closer together.

Thanks to this discovery, scientists have been encouraged into further research of these fascinating possums, and hope to learn more about our ancient history over the coming months.

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