According to a study by the Brotherhood of St Laurence and Griffith University, Governments should reduce reliance on disclosure of credit-contract terms as a means of protecting consumers who borrow from banks and other lenders because contracts are too long and obscurely written for borrowers to understand them. The study released yesterday, titled Coming to…Read More

On 1 January 2009 South Australia begins phasing in its ban on plastic bags. Plastic bags can still be provided in SA, but all retailers must provide alternatives and display signs informing customers of the upcoming changes. From May 4th 2009, shops will no longer be allowed to sell or give away lightweight, ‘checkout style’…Read More

Victorian households will start paying an average of 9.3 per cent more for their electricity from Thursday, January 1 – the day electricity pricing deregulation is introduced to the state. The result will be an annual increase in the average household electricity bill of around $109, according to Mr Shaun Johnson, CEO of the independent…Read More

Qantas announced yesterday it would remove its domestic fuel surcharges for tickets issued on or after Thursday 1 January 2009. Executive General Manager, Mr John Borghetti, said the airline had reduced domestic and international twice in recent months. “When we reduced surcharges last week, we said we would closely monitor the situation,” Mr Borghetti said.…Read More

Sydneysiders, visitors and tourists heading to Sydney New Year’s Eve celebrations are being encouraged to enjoy themselves, but also take care of their friends throughout the night. “This year’s theme is ‘Creation’ which is that universal, beautiful and magical thing that binds us all together for this wonderful night of celebration and togetherness,” said Sydney…Read More

Federation Square in Melbourne is set for a big New Year’s Eve with a myriad of FREE events featuring children’s entertainment and musical performances by international stars. The party starts at 8.00pm, with the smooth sounds of The Moovin’ and Groovin’ Orchestra. Put on your dancing shoes and head down to the Square for a…Read More

Householders feeling the pinch of the economic downturn can still enjoy restaurant quality food at home without breaking the budget, according to a leading Adelaide Chef. Proprietor of Holdfast Shore restaurants Esca and Zucca, Mr Adam Swanson, said a nutritious, restaurant quality pasta meal could be cooked at home for around $10.