News Desk
Australian, French researchers team up to battle Parkinson’s disease
Researchers in Australia and France will work together to fight Parkinson’s disease and similar neurodegenerative maladies, using funds from a program managed by the nation’s governments.
The next government and the challenges of a softer economy
RMIT economist Steve Kates talks about the economic issues in the election campaign. He says the latest ACCI investor survey shows that business performance has deteriorated sharply after a rebound and suggests that the next government will have to deal with a softer economy.
How to make online customers stick around
While enticing new customers has become second nature to Australia’s online retailers, they don’t do nearly enough to retain the ones they already have, according to new research.
Swan foresees surplus, Aussie banks mull rate hikes and the latest in business
Leon and Garry talk about Treasurer Wayne Swan’s announcement that the government is headed for a larger-than-expected surplus. They look at speculation that Australia’s biggest banks could be forced to raise interest rates independently of the Reserve Bank decision. But they won’t do it until after the federal election.
ABC Shop grabs top honor at first Online Retail Industry Awards
ABC Shop, Aunty’s web storefront, was the overall winner in Australia’s inaugural Online Retail Industry Awards. Another big winner was Shoes of Prey, which walked away with three awards — Best New Online Retailer, Most Innovative Online Retailer and Best Online Marketing Initiative.
Too busy to read the papers? Press play to listen instead.
It’s been a heavy news week. Talking Business is a podcast review of the Australian economy, presented by seasoned business journalists Leon Gettler and Garry Barker, produced in association with the RMIT College of Business. Just press play to listen.
RBA clears way for an August election by keeping rates on hold
Leon and Garry look at how the RBA has cleared the way for an August election by keeping rates on hold at 4.5%. Inflation is building a head of steam with the latest jobs figures showing unemployment now at 5.1% and the ANZ jobs series showing more companies are hiring.
Phoenix companies are on the rise in Australia, according to research
Corporate remnants of the global financial crisis are back. According to new research by Vera Advantage Bureau, “phoenix companies” are on the rise. These companies have come back in the guise of new entities and are hiding their bad credit history by starting over on a clean slate. According to the report, the news has spooked many business owners.
6 Beers of Separation campaign takes out Best of Show gong at 2010 IAB Awards
The IAB has announced the winners of its interactive advertising awards. Who came out on top? A mix of social media, video, games and movies, trumpeting the achievements of Lynx, Freddo, Tourism Victoria and Tooheys. Advertising has never been so cool.
Are higher interest rates looming ahead of the election?
RMIT economist Sinclair Davidson talks about the employment figures and Australia’s current account surplus. While it’s good news on the surface, it signals interest rate rises which he predicts will come in August, coinciding with the federal election. He also predicts that banks will raise their rates even higher than the RBA rate.









