Editors Picks
08 September 2025
GROWING TREND IN FUNERAL SERVICES
NEW research shows 63% of Australians are surprised funeral services remain unregulated, prompting the Australian Funeral Directors Association to rebrand as Funerals Australia and call for uniform standards. Australians prioritise ethics (88%), professional training (85%) and regulation (73%), but confidence in organising funerals is low (31%). Modern funerals are shifting from religious traditions to personalised celebrations, with trends including green burials, VR memorials and living funerals. The rebrand marks AFDA’s 90th year, reflecting evolving values and expectations
08 September 2025
SPECIAL PARAMEDICS FINISH THEIR TRAINING
THIRTY-one doctors in training and four trainee critical care paramedics have completed intensive training at NSW’s Aeromedical Crewing Excellence Centre. The program prepares teams for high-stakes missions, including helicopter rescues, water recovery, and complex trauma care. NSW Ambulance aeromedical teams, supported by 71 consultants and 38 registrars, respond to over 10,000 incidents annually. The training ensures world-class care across NSW, with many trainees seeking permanent positions in these highly specialised and life-saving roles.
08 September 2025
WHY MANY ARE CUTTING BACK ON TRAVEL
AUSTRALIANS are rethinking travel. An Insure&Go survey of 1,009 people found 66% will cut back or seek cheaper options, with 47% locking in airfare sales, 30% chasing bundled deals and 20% booking last-minute. While two-thirds prioritise price, many also value flexibility and inclusions like meals or tours. Domestic costs are rising too, with airfares up 13.7% and accommodation 5.3%. Insure&Go advises travellers not to compromise on insurance despite tighter budgets.
08 September 2025
STOPPING THE RESIDENTIAL ABUSE
THE Australian Resident Accommodation Managers Association (ARAMA) has launched a campaign to address rising abuse within residential complexes. CEO Trevor Rawnsley said incidents of intimidation, verbal tirades, and even physical assaults are escalating in strata communities, affecting residents, committees, and managers. The campaign aims to create psychologically safe communities through education, policies, and a statement of intent promoting respect at meetings. Many managers support the initiative, noting abuse comes from a minority but change is overdue.
27 August 2025
ALL ROADS LEAD TO BRADFIELD
More than a dot on a map
WITH construction of Australia’s first new city in 100 years underway, the first road signs pointing to Bradfield have also been installed.
06 August 2025
LARGEST INLAND OYSTER FESTIVAL HEADS WEST
250,000 oysters to be savoured this month
IT may be more than 60 kilometres away from the nearest oyster farm, but West HQ expects its inaugural Western Sydney Oyster Festival in August will become a key event of the Australian aquaculture calendar and place the region on Sydney’s culinary map.
30 July 2025
WEXPO PANEL TO DEMYSTIFY AI FOR BUSINESS
AI in Action: Hype, Help or Hindrance?
ARTIFICIAL Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword — it's infiltrating business operations at every level. But is it delivering on its promise, or adding complexity?