Norwegian Chamber NEWS

EABC Ministerial Corporate Lunch and Industry Forum

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 02:28:01 GMT

Earlier this month, NACC Co-Chair Sophia Demetriades and NACC Member Anja Jones Gudbrandsen attended the EABC Ministerial Corporate Lunch and Industry Forum with European Energy Commissioner (Minister) Kadri Simson, European Commissioner for Energy, and Australian Climate Change and Energy Minister the Hon Chris Bowen MP in Sydney.

Following keynote addresses by the Commissioner and Minister, an eminent panel of speakers led a thought-provoking discussion on domestic policy frameworks and bilateral initiatives necessary to facilitate Australia’s and the EU’s ability to achieve their energy and decarbonisation targets. Other topics included the investment, skills, R&D and technologies that will be required; opportunities and obstacles faced by industry and investors in both markets; and insights from each of the panellists on best-practice, business strategies, and the rapidly changing regulatory environment.

Minister Bowen and Commissioner Simson announced the release of a joint communiqué, together with Resources Minister Madeleine King, on the priority areas for closer EU-Australia cooperation to accelerate clean energy transition, resilient and sustainable global supply chains for net-zero technologies, while also delivering a just transition and long-term energy security. Highlighting the significant existing cooperation between Australia and the EU in the energy sector, the Minister and Commissioner underlined the strategic importance of deepening the partnership.

Specific areas for cooperation include the establishment of a bilateral Strategic Partnership on Critical Minerals (currently under negotiation); efforts to ensure the interoperability of standards in key areas of cooperation areas such as clean hydrogen; and initiatives to ease the bilateral flow of technologies, investment and skills that are critical to the energy transition and broader decarbonisation agenda. Please find a copy of the Joint Ministerial Statement here and the Commissioner’s Speech here

EABC would like to thank all our participating members including EABC Board Member Brett Wickham, Managing Director,ACCIONA Energía; EABC Board Member Stephen Forshaw, Chief Representative, Airbus; EABC Board Member Martin Merrick, President and CEO,Volvo Group; Professor Ross Garnaut AC, Director, ZEN Energy; Professor Emma Johnston AO, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), The University of Sydney and CSIRO Board Member; and EABC Corporate Council Member John Lydon, Co-Chair of the Australian Climate Leaders Coalition. Also joining members for the Industry Roundtable were Daniel Westerman, CEO, Australian Energy Market Operator; and Danny Nielsen, Senior Vice President and Country Head of Vestas.

EABC would also like to thank our event table sponsors Airbus, BDO, Enel Green Power and ZEN Energy and supporting partners from the diplomatic and Chamber network, including the Embassy of Denmark, Estonian Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, French-Australian Chamber of Commerce & Industry, German-Australian Chamber of Industry & Commerce, Italian Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce, the Polish Australian Business Forum, and Swedish Australian Chamber of Commerce.

View photo gallery here.

Announcement

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 03:35:38 GMT

On Monday, our founding President and Member of the Board of Directors for 9 years, Sophia Demetriades Toftdahl concluded her appointment as President of the Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce, and will remain on the Board of Directors. Ms Demetriades Toftdahl has been appointed as Chief Executive Australia for Dubai Chamber and will look after their Australia launch in a full time capacity. We thank Ms Demetriades Toftdahl for her commitment, drive and passion to the Norwegian Community and wish her all the best with the launch of Dubai Chamber Australia. Our next election is at the AGM on December 7.

August 7, 2023

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 04:35:15 GMT

Congratulations to our proud members Viking Cruises for their recent accolades! Viking was recently named as the Best Luxury River and Ocean Line of 2023 by Luxury Travel Advisor, marking their 8th time winning the award.

This makes them the only line to be named best in both the river and ocean categories for 4 years. To see more on Viking's wide range of exciting expeditions and state-of-the-art ships, head over to: https://bit.ly/3rcZODP.

Cheering on Norway for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup!

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 04:33:37 GMT

As the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup kicks off, we're eagerly cheering on the Norwegian women's football team in their pursuit to become world champions! Their arrival in Australia & New Zealand was highly anticipated, as featured last week on ABC News Breakfast (below), showcasing our celebrations from this year's Constitution Day event.

Despite Norway's unfortunate 1-0 loss in the World Cup opener to hosts New Zealand, the team will be determined to bounce back. We'll be eagerly watching Norway's upcoming matches against Switzerland (July 25, 6PM AEST) and the Philippines (July 30, 5PM AEST) as they look to advance from the group stage and go all the way!

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Celebrating our Members: Solstad Offshore ASA

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 04:27:31 GMT

As a leading provider of specialized offshore tonnage to global energy markets, Solstad Offshore ASA is one of the most prominent companies helping connect business between Australia and Norway.

Founded and based in the Norwegian town of Skudeneshavn, Solstad is one of the largest offshore service vessel (OSV) companies of its kind, operating its advanced vessels worldwide in markets including Europe, Brazil, Asia, and Australasia, with over 3,400 employees. Solstad’s state-of-the-art vessels, alongside its expertise from over 55 years of experience, help support its partners in the offshore energy industry, both in petroleum and renewables.

Solstad has sought to become an industry leader in operating sustainably within global offshore energy, with ambitions of reducing fleet emissions to net zero by 2050. The implementation of the Solstad Green Operations (SGO) program in 2009 has been instrumental in guiding this vision, helping Solstad monitor its environmental footprint and take steps towards a better environment.

With its abundance of natural resources and booming offshore energy sector, Australia has emerged as a crucial market for Solstad, with a head office currently based in the city of Perth. Specifically, Australia has served as a primary global oil and gas market, contributing nearly a quarter of Solstad’s operating income for 2021.

Recent activity in Australia includes having been awarded a two-year contract in mid-2022 for its platform supply vessel (PSV) Normand Swan from a major energy company. Other major vessels have also been in operation, including three of Solstad's Anchor-handling vessels (AHTS), along with the PSV Normand Leader, providing offshore support across the coast of Western Australia.

As Solstad continues on its path of financial success and sustainable growth, it aims to maintain its position as a trusted global leader in offshore shipping, recognised for its operational excellence.

Website: Solstad Offshore

Q-Free at the ITS Australia Global Summit 2023

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 04:26:56 GMT

From August 28 to 31, Silje Troseth and her team will welcome Q-Free's colleagues and partners from across the world to the ITS Australia Global Summit in Melbourne.

The aim of the summit is to unite government, industry and academic thought leaders. Together, they will explore different approaches towards accelerating smarter, safer and more sustainable transport by leveraging the expanding capabilities of modern technology.

The Q-Free team will be at the summit to promote their exciting Tolling and Traffic Management portfolio, as well as demonstrating its award-winning C-ITS road safety application, participating in important discussions and holding a key-note speech.

If you want to be part of this great event in Australia, read more and get your ticket here: https://its-australia-summit-2023.joyn-us.app/

Scandinavian Film Festival 2023, 13 July – 9 August: Tickets on Sale Now!

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 04:25:01 GMT

The 2023 Saxo Scandinavian Film Festival, now in its ninth year, is showcasing the best contemporary cinema from the Nordic region, selected from international film festivals and markets such as Göteborg, Cannes and Berlin.

A specially curated programme will be screening at Palace Cinemas, Luna Palace Cinemas and Palace Nova Cinemas from 13 July to 9 August, encompassing films from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.

Opening the Festival is the Australian Premiere of LET THE RIVER FLOW, based on true events and starring magnetic newcomer Ella Marie Hætta Isaksen. Festival Centrepiece GODLAND is award-winning Icelandic writer/director Hlynur Pálmason’s follow-up to his breakout hit A White, White Day, and Special Presentation Aki Kaurismäki’s tragicomedy FALLEN LEAVES comes direct from the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.

Exploring culture, history and life in the Nordic region, a host of Australian premieres bring high calibre and award-winning Scandinavian films to Australian cinema screens this July.

Tickets are now on sale at https://scandinavianfilmfestival.com/

Photo: Godland (Left), Fallen Leaves (Centre), Let the River Flow (Right)

Business Roundtable with Dr Markus Beyrer, Director General of BusinessEurope

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 04:24:25 GMT

This week the Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce President Sophia Demetriades participated in the Council’s recent Business Roundtable with Dr Markus Beyrer, Director General of BusinessEurope.

In the wake of the US’s Industrial Relations Act (IRA) and the EU’s response, Markus Beyrer provided an update on the policy landscape in the EU, implications for the international trade and investment environment, and the key risks and opportunities for businesses in Australia and Europe.

The Director-General began by reaffirming the importance of the EU remaining an open economy and competitive economy, while undergoing the transformation to net zero. Addressing the reaction in the EU to the US’s IRA, and subsequent transatlantic tensions, he noted the support for the objectives of the plan while highlighting concerns over its the discriminatory elements posing an existential threat to EU industries. After facing a series of global crises, he underlined the seismic impact of the war in Ukraine on Europe, most acutely for energy prices. At the peak in August 2022, Europe was experiencing an increase of gas prices of 1100% as compared to 200% in the US and 100% in Japan.

The combination of these two asymmetric shocks has necessitated a comprehensive reflection on EU industrial competitiveness and FDI attractiveness to address the pull factor of the IRA, as well as the significant push factors. The most impactful of which are the long-term rise in energy costs (still significantly higher than competitors out to 2025) and significantly higher regulatory burden for companies. With regard to the latter, he noted the fall in FDI of 66% between 2019-2021, as compared to a 63% increase for the US, coming pre-energy crisis. To address the decline in competitiveness, BusinessEurope has been advocating for four key elements:

Less and better regulation – Positive recent developments include the commitment to new competitiveness checks for all new legislation (including looking at the cumulative impact) and the development of a proposal to reduce reporting requirements by 25% (to be delivered in Autumn).
Secure energy supply at competitive prices – In addition to the investment in renewables already underway, the Commission is now seeking to revise the electricity market design with initiatives designed to reduce the exposure of industry and consumers to price volatility.
A broad industrial strategy flanking the European Green Deal - In February 2023, the Commission unveiled its Green Deal Industrial Plan, followed by the Net-Zero Industry Act and the Critical Raw Materials Act. These will focus on creating the enabling environment (including reducing red tape and fast-tracking procedures) to achieve a target of at least 40% of clean technologies manufactured in the EU by 2030 and to boost domestic production, ramp up recycling and diversify the supply chain of raw materials in the EU. Importantly, imports of critical minerals should not be disadvantaged as the EU will continue to rely on third countries for roughly 75% of supply.
Well calibrated state aid rules – In response to the IRA, the EU has adopted a new Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework which will allow Member States to match aid from third countries, where there is a risk of investments being diverted away from Europe. The measure will be targeted, operational for limited time (to 2025), and includes provisions to preserve the level-playing field in the single market. Additionally, a recent deal reached between the EU and US will see a transparency instrument created to avoid subsidy shopping.

Finally, Dr Beyrer underlined the need for an ambitious trade agenda to support the EU’s international competitiveness, access to the inputs needed for industry, export opportunities, and risk mitigation and diversification efforts. He argued that the EU needed to ensure the better use of existing trade agreements, ratify concluded agreements, and conclude negotiations with Australia before the European summer break.

The roundtable discussion included topics included financing the green industrial agenda and the possibility of a European Sovereign Fund; the negotiations between the EU and the US to find solutions to key discriminatory elements of the IRA, including a critical raw materials agreement to afford the EU the same conditions as US FTA partners; the importance of the interoperability of international regulation and common global standards; the politics around energy policy in Europe, including around the classification of fuel sources; potential impacts of Europe’s extraterritorial regulations and response to the IRA on Australian business; among other topics.

R&D Solutions – SUCCESSFUL P&A WORK – NATURALLY

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 03:23:41 GMT

R&D Solutions and partner FloPetrol conducted abandonment operations for a major operator on a remote island off the coast of Western Australia.

The field in question hosts many aged wells, some dating back over 40 years, and the strategic objective was to retire them as economically and responsibly as possible.

An eco-friendly solution

The material selected for plugging a trial well was QuartzPack®, a Bingham-plastic material which acts as both a liquid and a solid material.

It is noteworthy that external mechanical, hydraulic or tectonic forces will reshape the well barrier to fit the new well geometrics and maintain sealing properties. Whilst tectonic plate movement isn’t common in Western Australia it is not unheard of, so eliminating any possible leak paths before they can occur is an advantage.

Moreover, the use of rock particle sizes from nano to millimetres provide a complete seal, preventing gas and liquid migration to surface. The QuartzPack® material doesn’t shrink, crack or have micro-annulus issues – and, given its fundamental characteristics, it doesn’t raise any environmental concerns.

Sealing the deal

The material was checked on-site and then prepared for deployment into the candidate well. On arrival, IBCs were opened and, using an auger, the material was re-liquified for pumping.

Those on location witnessing the operation were amazed to see the material on site change from a solid crusty impermeable block to a liquid slurry. From there, cement pumps delivered the material into the wellbore to achieve the seal.

Green for go on further wells

The trial was deemed a total success: the deployment and delivery phases were flawless thanks to careful planning and preparation, and the well was abandoned as planned. It had been planned to trial the material and methods of deployment, and to review ease of operability, with further test wells, but the success of the initial exercise meant the full system was deemed good to go and needed no further proof of concept.

The trial demonstrated the ongoing commitment of R&D Solutions and FloPetrol to the provision of environmentally and technically sound solutions for permanent well abandonment. We look forward to building on this success in the year ahead.

Q-Free’s Sustainability Partner Conference

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 03:23:09 GMT

Great News! Q-Free brought their sustainability partnership with following partners to the digital space with an internal Lunch and Learn meeting on Social Procurement:

Transurban: One of the world’s largest toll road developers and operators

Multicap Limited: A For Purpose organisation working to increase long-term employment opportunities and skills for people with disabilities and,

Apricot: a consultancy agency specialising in ESG implementation.

Social Procurement is a mechanism to leverage social value from existing spending. Together with their partners in Australia, Q-Free is working to increase long-term employment for people with disabilities. Multicap employees are trained and work on the manual review of images from Q-Free's tolling systems and they are so happy with the joint collaboration and outcome.

Here are some partner quotes in breif:

“By collaborating with suppliers we can provide meaningful work opportunities for people facing barriers to employment, as well as create shared value for the communities in which we operate”. Sebastian Conley, Sustainable Procurement Manager at Transurban

“Remember when you work with a person-centered approach, it can truly have an enormous impact”. Tony Burns, General Manager Employment at MultiCap.

And to wrap it up:

"We feel proud and honoured to be working with our partners Transurban, MultiCap, and Apricot in providing ongoing, sustainable, and meaningful work opportunities whilst focusing on ability, not disability". Silje Troseth, General Manager at Q-Free Australia,

Together we are changing the movements of life.

Ekornes New Arrivals－The New Stressless Rome

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 03:22:40 GMT

Redefining Comfort

Discover a new level of comfort with the NEW Stressless® Rome. The enveloping shape of the back provides premium comfort. Includes features like the Stressless Plus™-system for maximum comfort and support for the user’s neck and lumbar region. The sleep function can be activated with a hand movement. Add to that BalanceAdapt™ which automatically adjusts the seat and back angle to the user’s anatomy and movements.

Available to experience in-store now

Q-Free: Together We Are Changing The Movements of Life

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 03:21:51 GMT

Q-Free, Silje Troseth and Multicap Limited have partnered to help people with disabilities realise their vision to provide sustainable, meaningful and sustained employment for the community.

Silje Troseth posted: It was great to meet Tony Burns OAM and his amazing team and see firsthand the inspiring work they do. MultiCap’s vision is to empower people with disabilities to lead a fulfilling everyday life in a world where there are no barriers. Q-Free ASA is honoured to partner with MultiCap to help fulfil their vision of providing sustainable, meaningful and ongoing employment to this community.

Q-Free – Glimpse From an Amazing Summit – Value Creation and Positive Impact.

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 03:21:29 GMT

VP Asia & Pacific, Silje Troseth, presented Q-Free Australia´s work on social procurement and was panelist in a discussion on "Sustainable and Ethical Procurement" at ITS Summit in Brisbane .

The aim of the session was to create awareness of social procurement and share some of Q-Free Australia´s experiences in that space - And with that hopefully inspire others to do something similar.

Silje has shared the some of the key points from the debate:

Sustainability partnerships are win-win partnerships that are not short sprints, but marathons.
Sustainability is more than environmentalism and there are huge opportunities for improvement, impact and change also within the Social aspect of sustainability.
Every dollar we spend has an impact.
The goal with the collaborative sustainability project with Q-Free, Transurban, Apricot and Multicap Limited is to provide ongoing, sustainable and meaningful work for people with disability.

Viking Celebrates 25th Anniversary in Amsterdam

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 03:21:02 GMT

Los Angeles (September 30, 2022) – Viking today marked the company’s 25^thanniversary with a historic celebration in Amsterdam. To commemorate the milestone, for the first time ever, three classes of Viking ships—a river ship, an ocean ship and the company’s newest expedition vessel, the Viking Polaris—met in Amsterdam and sailed in a special convoy to IJmuiden, Netherlands. Participating in the convoy with the Viking Polariswere the Viking Longship, the Viking Mani, and the ocean vessel, the Viking Mars.

During the Amsterdam event, Viking also named the Viking Polaris and her identical sister ship, the Viking Octantis®, which is currently sailing her inaugural season in the Great Lakes. Both ships will spend the Austral summer in Antarctica, before travelling north to the Great Lakes for a series of voyages during spring and summer.

“Today is historic for Viking—to celebrate our 25^thanniversary, to have all classes of our ships sailing together for the first time, and to name our phenomenal new expedition vessels. We are very grateful to their godmothers, Liv Arnesen and Ann Bancroft, for honouring us. As renowned explorers who became the first women to ski across Antarctica, they are the perfect choice for ships that are designed for expeditions,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “I am very proud of what we have accomplished in our first 25 years. And in our view, we are just getting started. Where do we go next? Onwards.”

Renowned explorers and educators Liv Arnesen and Ann Bancroft, the respective ceremonial godmothers of the Viking Octantisand the Viking Polaris, were in attendance in Amsterdam and offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the new ships—with Arnesen offering her blessing remotely via video to the Viking Octantis in the Great Lakes. In keeping with the naming tradition, Arnesen and Bancroft assisted in breaking a bottle of Norwegian aquavit on each of the ship’s hull. During the ceremony, guests enjoyed performances from Sissel Kyrkjebø, one of the world’s leading crossover sopranos and godmother of the Viking Jupiter,and violinist Tor Jaran Apold. Guests on all Viking three ships in Amsterdam were able to join in the naming ceremony, as well as witness the historic convoy, from their ships’ respective outdoor viewing areas.

Viking’s 25^thanniversary celebration in Amsterdam is the most recent event during a milestone year in which the company has also welcomed to its fleet eight new Viking Longships on the rivers of Europe and new purpose-built vessels on the Mekong, Nile and Mississippi rivers. By the end of 2022, two new, identical ocean ships will have also joined Viking’s fleet. Earlier this year, Viking was named the #1 Ocean Line and #1 River Line in Travel + Leisure’s 2022 “World’s Best” Awards, in which the company became the first cruise line ever to top both categories in the same year. Viking is also rated #1 for both rivers and oceans by Condé Nast Traveler, making it the first cruise line to ever simultaneously earn #1 in its categories from both publications. Additionally, Viking has published a newvideoabout the company’s history and some of the key partners who have contributed to its success, which was shared on board all Viking ships today as part of the 25^thanniversary celebration.

Liv Arnesen, Godmother of the Viking Octantis

Liv Arnesen is a native Norwegian, educator, cross-country skier, explorer and lecturer. Arnesen led the first unsupported women’s crossing of the Greenland Ice Cap in 1992. The Viking Octantisis named after Sigma Octantis, the south star; Arnesen was chosen as godmother specifically because of her accomplishment as the first woman in the world to ski solo and unsupported to the South Pole. As the godmother of the Viking Octantis, Arnesen will periodically serve as a member of the Viking Expedition Team when sailing in Antarctica and beyond.

“It is an honor to be the godmother of the new Viking Octantis. I have spent significant time in Antarctica and recently had the privilege to return on one of the ship’s first voyages. The region is a special destination for scientists and adventurers, and sailing with Viking is the perfect way to get there,” said Liv.

Ann Bancroft, Godmother of the Viking Polaris

Ann Bancroft, an American polar explorer, educator and author from Minnesota, became the first woman to successfully ski to both poles in 1993. Bancroft also led the first American women’s east to west crossing of Greenland and dogsled 1,000 miles from the Northwest Territories in Canada to the North Pole. The Viking Polarisis named after Polaris, the north star; Bancroft was chosen as godmother specifically because of her accomplishment as the first woman to reach the North Pole by sled and foot. In addition to being the godmother of the Viking Polaris, she is the founder of the Ann Bancroft Foundation to inspire girls and build confidence.

“Growing up in the Minnesota region, the Great Lakes are where I spent my early years becoming an explorer. I am proud to be the godmother of an expedition vessel like the Viking Polaristhat will allow guests to visit, not only the Great Lakes, but also Antarctica, two regions that played a pivotal role in my life,” said Ann.

Liv Arnesen & Ann Bancroft Partnership

For more than 20 years, Arnesen and Bancroft have worked together and in 2001, they became the first women to ski across Antarctica. Together they co-founded Bancroft Arnesen Explore / Access Water, an initiative that aims to engage and empower more than 60 million minds to create a sustainable tomorrow.

Q-Free Australia Cycle and Pedestrian Monitoring Systems

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 03:20:33 GMT

Q-Free’s technology the HI-TRAC® CMU has been chosen by the Department of Transport and Main Roads in Queensland as the solution to count and monitor cycle and pedestrian in Queensland. The Government now has over 60 of Q-Free’s counters installed across Brisbane and some are being install and commissioned at this very moment. Q-Free is also maintaining these cycle and pedestrian counters for the Department. Each year, the Queensland Government continues to install more counters as the data from each counter provides them with valuable information. Each counter is installed in locations so they can understand the movement of cyclists and pedestrians and will use the data to install more cycle way and foot path so that the community can ride and walk safely to and from work.

The State Government goal to increase walking and cycling in Australia and have budget millions of dollars to extend and build more cycleway and foot paths.

Below are bike numbers on Veloway (one of Brisbane’s cycleway)

Metrics from State of Cycling Report

TMR’s statement below on their strategy.

“The Queensland Cycling Strategy 2017–2027 is part of a holistic approach to encourage all Queenslanders to enjoy and participate in regular physical activity to improve their health and wellbeing.

The Queensland Cycling Strategy 2017–2027, Queensland Walking Strategy 2019–2029, and the Government’s ten-year sport, active recreation, and physical activity strategy, Activate! Queensland 2019–2029, are key strategies to achieve Our Future State: Advancing Queensland's Priorities particularly the ‘Keep Queenslanders Healthy’ priority.

Many Queensland Government agencies support encouraging more people to ride and delivery of rideable environments through their work on transport, health, planning, education and recreation. We will continue to work across agencies to deliver a better integrated transport network and to make it easier to ride to work, school, or the shops, or for fun and recreation”

Photos of Q-Free’s cycle counter in Queensland.

Across the Seas, Vivid Sydney 2022

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 04:17:57 GMT

Last week, Sophia Demetriades Toftdahl, President of the Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce attended the special viewing of the rooftop projection Across the Seas, which is part of the Vivid Sydney 2022 program. Across the Seas is a stunning collection of images projected on the Australian National Maritime Museum's façade, reflecting stories connected with nearby Pyrmont wharf, where many Australians arrived to start a new life.

The museum also hosts Australia's National Monument to Migration, one of the flagship creations which wraps and weaves acknowledgement, commemoration, celebration and interpretation of migrant histories into an exposition of identity.

The Monument now features the names of more than 31,000 migrants from 136 countries including 47 from Norway – it is a physical representation of the diversity of this nation.

If you are interested in inscribing your name or the name of a family or community member on the National Monument to Migration, the closing date for the next unveiling in October is 30 June 2022. Register here or phone 02 9298 3777.

Flokk: A house of furniture brands focused on health, wellbeing and sustainability

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 04:17:23 GMT

Inspire great work

Flokk is a house of brands that launched in 2017 which offers a wide range of seating solutions, furniture and accessories for the workplace and beyond. The head office of the company is located in Oslo, Norway, with main production sites in Røros (Norway), Nässjö (Sweden), Turek (Poland) and Hawthorne (USA). Currently, Flokk products are sold in more than 80 countries worldwide.

The vision of Flokk is simple: to inspire great work. Through its passion for furnishing, Flokk helps an individual fulfil their potential to put their hearts and minds into their work by creating a healthy and well-designed environment based on comprehensive insight into the needs of real people.

Keeping future generations in mind

Flokk also upholds a strong commitment to protecting the environment. With one of Flokk’s main production sites located in the remote Norwegian town of Røros, which has a rich natural landscape, Flokk is constantly reminded of the duty to protect the environment for future generations.

The company therefore controls the entire value chain—from the design, manufacturing and sales processes—which allows Flokk to take full responsibility for every single detail of its work to ensure the company adopts a structured focus on creating sustainable furniture.

As a house of brands, Flokk combines the heritage and expertise of nine district brands. One of those brands is HÅG. Founded in 1943, HÅG has been manufacturing designer office chairs that promote effortless movement of a user’s body while they sit and work in order to help them stay healthy and active.

Sustainable furniture design is also something that HÅG has been pioneering for many decades. As early as 1995, the company began using recycled plastic from various sources like bottle tops in the production of their chairs. Notably, in April 2015, the HÅG Capisco chair won the award for “Best Recycled Plastic Product in Europe”, presented by the European Association of Plastics Recycling and Recovery Organisations. Today, every HÅG chair carries an EPD certification, which acknowledges that HÅG has some of the lowest CO2 emissions in the furniture industry.

By decreasing energy consumption, reducing waste and continuously increasing the use of recycled materials, HÅG is a market leader in sustainable furniture manufacturing. In this way, HÅG is united to Flokk through its goals of creating innovative designs that focus on their users’ health, wellbeing and the environment surrounding them.

The “Nordic Noir” Revolution in Australia

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 04:16:39 GMT

By Nishant Rath

‘Nordic Noir’(Nikel, 2021)—the subset of the crime fiction genre set in Nordic countries and defined by its murky atmosphere, dark narratives, and flawed protagonists—has progressively proved itself to be an engaging source of entertainment for Australian audiences. Indeed, the “Nordic Noir revolution” in Australia suggests a need to investigate the cultural exchanges and similarities between both regions, since cultural flows between countries are often pertinent indicators of the depth of partnership felt by countries. Thus, we ask - are there similarities between the ‘Nordic Viking’ and the ‘Australian Explorer’? How deep are the cultural flows between the Nordic countries and Australia? Why are popular streaming platforms (Stan, SBS, Netflix) progressively acquiring Nordic Crime fiction shows to entertain Australian audiences?

The relationship of the Nordic people with nature is rooted in the concept of Friluftsliv. The English translation, “An outdoorsy life”/“Open air life”, does not do justice to the breadth of this concept, which defines the historical Nordic connection with the land, the seas, the fjords, the mountains, the snow, the trees, and the fauna. The philosophical standpoint for Friluftsliv emerged from the Nordic need to connect with nature, which goes beyond recreation or a moral obligation of preservation.

Similarly, the Australian philosophy towards life is deeply connected to its geographical beauty: its thick rainforests, gorgeous beaches, national landmarks, deserts, mountains, and diverse flora and fauna. Australians love their early morning bike rides, hikes, swims and treks, often seeking an active lifestyle and investing time in recreational activities that complement the Geographical attributes of their region.

Operationally, Friluftsliv can be defined as a participation in nature-based outdoor recreation that is centered around the individual (Elgvin, 2009). The word Friluftsliv first emerged in 1859 in the iconic Dramatist Henrik Ibsen’s poem ‘Paa Vidderne’ (Elgvin, 2009). As a concept, Friluftslivit has been studied rigorously throughout the years using a canon of disciplinary lenses. The spiritual dimensions of experiencing the freedom of nature in its purest form is a significant part of Nordic culture. In fact, in his poem, Ibsen mystifies the symbolic feeling of escaping the material world, and suggests that the individual’s inspiration lies in the scenic Norwegian flora and fauna. Ibsen’s influence through his famed concept of Friluftsliv is evident in literature, drama and film, and is best seen in the numerous translated renditions of his plays in theatres all around the globe. Modern Nordic storytellers/filmmakers tend to likewise set their plots around scenic planes, fjords, mountains to expose the rich Geographical beauty of Nordic countries.

The cultural partnership between Australia and Nordic countries should be re-visited and celebrated. The Norwegian saying, “There is no bad weather, only bad clothes”, applies to Australia too. There are two direct consequences of the Nordic-Australian cultural partnership. Firstly, in Australia, translations of Ibsen’s plays can be traced back to 1889 (Tompkins, 2013). Iconic Plays such as “A Doll’s House”, “Ghosts” and “Peer Gynt” have been translated into English and performed for decades for Australian audiences. These performances continue to intrigue Australian audiences because of Ibsen’s modernist tendencies to rethink traditional drama structures. Secondly, SBS set a precedent in 2018 (SBS Guide. 2017) by creating content structured around the uniquely Norwegian Genre “slow TV”. SBS aired a three-hour unedited train-journey of the iconic Ghan (Australia’s first Passenger train) through the Australian outback.

In conclusion, the cultural exchanges between Nordic countries and Australia are far from recent. The cultural similarities of cultivating an intense relationship with flora and fauna are stark. Perhaps, the similarities between Friluftsliv and the Australian mindset, is why Australian audiences can relate to Nordic Noir.

Sources:

https://www.sbs.com.au/guide/article/2017/12/12/slow-tv-comes-sbs-ghan-australias-greatest-train-journey - (SBS Guide. 2017. Slow TV comes to SBS with The Ghan: Australia’s Greatest Train Journey. [online] Available at: <https://www.sbs.com.au/guide/article/2017/12/12/slow-tv-comes-sbs-ghan-australias-greatest-train-journey>

https://www.academia.edu/8817952/Performing_Ghosts_in_Australia_Ibsen_and_an_example_of_Australian_Cultural_Translation - (Tompkins J., 2013 “Performing ghosts in Australia: Ibsen and an example of australian cultural translation” in Ibsen Studies, 2013 Vol. 13, No. 1, 2–27, http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15021866.2013.792663)

https://norwegianjournaloffriluftsliv.com/doc/ibsens_use_of_friluftsliv_elgvin_2009.pdf

(Elgvin,T. D., 2009. «Henrik Ibsen: The birth of ‘friluftsliv’ – a 150 years Celebration»,. [online] Norwegianjournaloffriluftsliv.com. Available at: <https://norwegianjournaloffriluftsliv.com/doc/ibsens_use_of_friluftsliv_elgvin_2009.pdf> [Accessed 23 September 2021].)

https://www.lifeinnorway.net/nordic-noir/ - (Nikel, D., 2021. Nordic Noir: Scandinavian Crime Fiction Explained. [online] Life in Norway. Available at: <https://www.lifeinnorway.net/nordic-noir/> )

This article was published as part of a series written by interns of the Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce and images are used under Creative Commons.

Can We Help Women Lead?

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 04:15:23 GMT

Nordic Notables: Women Leading Ways Forward

"Why is it so important to promote and safeguard gender equality? It is a matter of human rights. It is a matter of democracy.

Also, it is pure common sense."

—Gro Harlem Brundtland

Written by Georgia Georgiou

The traversive words of Norway’s first female prime minister illustrate profound truths that should stand to be heard by all. The historical, feminist waves of sociocultural movements toward gender equality continue to beat upon the shores of our Postmodern era, where the daughters and granddaughters of feminist foremothers continue to struggle for the seeming simplicities of life—like equal pay and equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender.

Whilst in Norway—as in every country—there is more work to be done in this push for gender equality, we cannot dismiss the contributions of trailblazing Nordic women, who have inspired and continue to inspire in all areas of life with their incredible achievements. Norway, which is considered one of the most gender equal countries in the world, is home to a long line of notable women. Indeed, of recent note, Norway has moved one step closer to appointing Western Europe’s first female central bank chief, after Oystein Olsen, Governor of the Central Bank of Norway, has announced that he will be stepping down in February 2022. According to Nordea Bank economist Dane Cekov and JP Morgan analyst Morten Lund, this places Ida Wolden Bache, who is the deputy governor, as his likely successor. With Bache set to potentially be a next addition to Norway’s list of notables, let’s take a moment to look at some Norwegian women who have paved stepping stones toward gender equality, and demonstrated the power of the female spirit.

Politics

In the world of politics, Gro Harlem Brundtland is a woman who stands out both in Norwegian circles and in world politics. Originally trained in medicine and practicing as a physician and doctor, in 1974 Brundtland entered government as Minister of the Environment. Brundtland became Norway’s first female Prime Minister in 1981, and served three terms in this position, quickly becoming known as “mother of the nation”. Soon after, Brundtland became an international leader, serving as Director-General of the World Health Organisation until 2003. In this time, she also chaired the Brundtland Commission, formerly the World Commission on Environment and Development, which is a sub-organisation of the United Nations that aimed to unite countries in pursuit of sustainable development. However, Brundtland’s incredible career in international politics didn’t end there—she served as UN Special Envoy on Climate Change from 2007 to 2010, was deputy chair of ‘The Elders’, and was also the Vice-President of the Socialist International. She has received many awards and recognitions for all her work.

Science

In the world of science, May-Britt Moser, a Norwegian psychologist and neuroscientist, stands out as a shining example of Nordic notability. This brilliant-minded and intelligent woman is not only a Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)—in 2014, she won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, alongside her then-husband, Edvard Moser. May-Britt Moser was awarded the Nobel Prize for her work concerning discoveries of cells that constitute a positioning system in the brain. She also co-established the Moser research environment at NTNU, and since 2012 has headed the Centre for Neural Computation.

Sports

Maren Mjelde is an internationally renowned footballer. She is Norway's national football team captain, and also plays for Chelsea Football Club Women. Yet, Mjelde is more than a sporting champion—she has become a champion of gender equality, having co-signed in 2017 an agreement to bridge the pay-gap between the male and female national football teams in Norway. This agreement saw that all international senior male and female players would be paid the same wages, with the women’s team receiving a pay rise of 2.5 million kroner.

Considering in more depth the world of sports, and in particular, the situation of equal pay for both male and female football players, it would be remiss to forget the important role that men have to play in these moves toward gender equality. Indeed, the agreement co-signed by Mjelde came after Norway’s men’s soccer team, in solidarity with their female counterparts, took a wage cut of 6 million kroner, accentuating the significant role of men in the move toward gender equality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Brundlandt, Moser and Mjelde are but a microcosmic depiction of change, advancement and leadership showcased by Nordic women in the past few decades—and are a promising example for our future women to follow. These women have led the way in male-dominated fields. Through their example, they contribute to the incremental deconstruction of systems of marginalisation and inequality, in turn shaping positive outcomes for feminism.

Women can lead. Women should lead. However, the way to gender equality is not a one-woman job; rather, it calls for a collective, gender-combined effort to change dynamics within a more subtly oppressive postmodern society. Thus, we must also ask—what can we do to facilitate opportunities for women to lead?

Sources:

https://www.smh.com.au/business/the-economy/norway-could-make-history-with-first-female-central-bank-chief-20210827-p58mcn.htmlhttps://www.lifeinnorway.net/norwegian-women/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/international/norway-footballers-equal-pay-agreement-a8112016.htmlhttps://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/norways-mens-soccer-team-took-wage-cute-so-women-players-earn-equal-pay-they-already-win-more/

This article was published as part of a series written by interns of the Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce and images are used under Creative Commons.

STRESSLESS ‘NOT TO BE MISSED’ POST CHRISTMAS PROMOTION

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 03:14:34 GMT

Looking to treat yourself or a special person this Festive Season?

Corporate member Stressless is offering NACC members

a special post Christmas 2020 discount in celebration of its 50th Anniversary

on a selection of

sofas and recliners from 26 DECEMBER 2020.

Check our these amazing Norwegian furnishings here so you are ready to purchase when the promotion kicks off.

EQUINOR AND PARTNER REACH FINANCIAL CLOSE ON WORLD’S BIGGEST OFFSHORE WIND FARM

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 03:14:02 GMT

Dogger Bank wind farm owners, Equinor and SSE, have today announced financial close on the first two phases of the project, representing in aggregate the largest offshore wind project financing to date globally.

“Reaching financial close on the two first phases of Dogger Bank is a major milestone, demonstrating our commitment to profitable growth within offshore wind. The extensive interest from lenders underpins the attractiveness of UK offshore wind assets and confidence in SSE and Equinor. As the wind farm’s future operator, we are proud to take this big step forward in delivering what will be the backbone of a growing wind hub in the North Sea,” says Pål Eitrheim, Equinor’s executive vice president of New Energy Solutions.

The total senior debt facilities across the two phases is GBP 4.8 billion, plus ancillary facilities of around GBP 0.7 billion. Dogger Bank A and B are being project financed with gearing of 65% to 70% for the generation assets. Gearing on the transmission facilities is set to 90% of the forecasted OFTO sale proceeds.

With the strong interest from lenders, Dogger Bank A and B were able to secure competitive terms, despite unprecedented economic circumstances arising from the global coronavirus pandemic. The final group of lenders, comprising 29 banks and three export credit agencies, includes experienced lenders in the sector along with relationship lenders of both SSE and Equinor. The level of interest achieved reflects the quality of the project and enables strong returns on shareholder capital to be delivered.

Pål Eitrheim, Equinor’s executive vice president of New Energy Solutions. (Photo: Ole Jørgen Bratland)

“Equinor is committed to being a leading company in the energy transition and to helping the UK Government deliver on its 10-point plan for a green industrial future. Through the sheer scale of the project we have delivered record-low contract prices for the UK market, and as operator of the wind farm we will continue to deliver value to the UK for years to come. Dogger Bank will generate renewable electricity for British homes, whilst creating jobs and attracting significant investment to the UK,” says Eitrheim.

The project is being built in three 1.2 GW phases, with the first two phases being constructed at the same time to take advantage of the synergies resulting from their geographical proximity and use of common technology and contractors. As such, the two phases are being financed concurrently with all lenders participating in each phase in equal proportions. Dogger Bank A and B will each require total capital expenditure of around GBP 3 billion, including the capex for the offshore transmission station (OFTO). The third phase, Dogger Bank C, is being developed on a different timescale with financial close to follow at a later stage.

SSE Renewables are leading the construction of the 3.6 GW project, and Equinor will lead on the wind farm’s operations.

Equinor is developing as a broad energy company, and on 2 November this year Equinor announced its ambition to become a net-zero energy company by 2050. The company aims to become a global offshore wind major and expects to increase its current installed capacity to 12-16 GW, around 30 times the current level, by 2035.

Equinor is building material offshore wind clusters in the North Sea, the US North East and in the Baltic Sea and powers over one million European homes with renewable electricity from offshore wind. In the UK, the company currently operates three offshore wind farms, including the world’s first floating wind farm, Hywind Scotland. As well as progressing Dogger Bank, Equinor plans to extend two of its UK wind farms, doubling its offshore wind capacity off the coast of Norfolk.

COOPER PARTNERS PROVIDES LATEST BRIEF: JOBKEEPER 2.0 CHECK LISTS + KEY INFORMATION

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 03:13:16 GMT

As part of it's recent JobKeeper series - Business Member COOPER PARTNERS - has published its latest brief with some straightforward checklists for those businesses that are either seeking to qualify

for the extended JobKeeper scheme

are no longer eligible.

These checklists will assist you in determining on what you need to do, from new to existing participants, those no longer eligible and legacy employers.

Their great little graphic outlines the payment periods for the Jobseeker 2.0 Extension Fortnights as well as some 'Next Steps' - including helpful reminders and tips, - and how Cooper Partners can assist you.

FIND OUT MORE

FLOKK’S CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR BARGAINS ARE JUST AROUND THE CORNER

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 03:12:32 GMT

This festive season, Flokk's distributors across Australia are offering some amazing discounts on numerous Flokk products.

All beautifully and ergonomically designed, Flokk provides a wide range of furniture and acoustic solutions.

With a shared belief in human-centred and sustainable design, each of their brands has its own identity and its own stories to tell.

Don't miss out on this rare opportunity for some great savings.

For your nearest distributor, CONTACT FLOKK NOW

Equinor: The World Can Reach Climate Goals By Balanced Economic Development

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 03:11:59 GMT

Click on image above to view the video

Equinor’s 10th Energy Perspectives report describes how the world can reach the climate and sustainability goals by a more equitable distribution of economic growth and contributions from developed countries to climate actions and development also in emerging markets.

“2020 has been an extraordinary year. The impacts of Covid-19 have led to a considerable decline in energy demand, energy prices and global greenhouse gas emissions,” says Eirik Wærness, senior vice president and chief economist of Equinor.

Through the Reform, Rivalry and Rebalance scenarios the Energy Perspectives report describes possible outcomes for the development of world economy, the global energy mix, energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions towards 2050. Rebalance is a new scenario in this year’s report, describing how the world can still reach the goals of the Paris Agreement and limit global warming to well below two degrees Celsius.

Eirik Wærness, senior vice president and chief economist of Equinor. (Photo: Arne Reidar Mortensen)

“The energy transition is progressing too slowly, and effective actions are required urgently to reach the climate goals. To reach the climate goals, we must establish a new balance in the priorities between economic growth, increased welfare and climate actionsT. A more equitable global distribution of welfare increase, acknowledging that a cost distribution is required between developed and emerging markets to support the energy transition, describes a more credible path to reaching the climate goals and the UN’s sustainability goal,” says Wærness.

In the Rebalance scenario the premise of continued high global economic growth across all regions has been changed.

“We do not know for certain how the development will be after the pandemic. It is precisely in times of much uncertainty that scenario planning is more important than ever. The outcome space is big, and the choices made in the next years will be vital for how the world is developing to a sufficient extent in a more sustainable direction,” says Wærness.

Rebalance shows a development path towards 2050 where economic growth accelerates in emerging markets, while the growth is lower in developed economies, and:

The global energy-related CO₂ emissions will never return to the level they were before the Covid-19 pandemic.
The absolute global energy demand is reduced by 15 per cent compared to the 2019 level.
Even if the oil demand peak was passed in 2019, there will still be a need for oil and gas in the energy mix.
The electricity demand increases by 80 per cent and wind power production must increase around nine times from the present level.
Carbon capture and storage must handle around two billion tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year, equivalent to 400 Northern Lights projects.
Only 10 per cent of the world’s private cars will be petrol or diesel powered.

The Reform scenario is based on a market and technology driven development. There will be continued tightening of climate policies in line with the commitments of the Paris Agreement, however, it will not be enough to reach the climate goals. The developed countries are the main drivers of the development, and there is limited success for zero-emission technology, such as carbon capture and storage, and new energy carriers, such as hydrogen.

In the Rivalry scenario we assume that climate policy is not sufficiently prioritized and consequently the energy transition is not gaining enough momentum. There are several indications of the development heading in this direction. Trade wars, social and political unrest and regional political conflicts with potential for further escalation are examples of that. In Rivalry these trends continue, leading to protectionism, autocracy, less global cooperation, slower technology development and weak economic growth.

Equinor recently announced an ambition of net zero CO₂ emissions from our activities and use of the company’s products by 2050.

Anders Opedal, president and CEO of Equinor. (Photo: Ole Jørgen Bratland)

“Equinor’s strategy will ensure long-term competitiveness in times of significant changes in the global energy systems. It will be a leading company in these changes, and we have set an ambition of becoming a net-zero energy company by 2050. This means that we will be among the best companies in the world in producing oil and gas with low CO₂ emissions. We will accelerate the growth in renewables, and we have projects that can help establish new value chains for carbon capture and storage and hydrogen,” says Anders Opedal, president and CEO of Equinor.

This is the 10th year in a row that Equinor is presenting its Energy Perspectives. The driving forces behind the climate challenge have changed considerably, and the energy systems have been through major changes since the first Energy Perspectives report was published.

“During these 10 years we have been surprised by the extent and impact of the shale revolution, and coal has been replaced faster than we anticipated. However, we hit the target surprisingly well regarding the growth in renewables during the past ten years. We were also right about the oil demand, but for the wrong reasons. Nobody could predict the dramatic consequences that a pandemic would have on the energy demand,” says Wærness.

Norwegian Chamber (NACC) President Participates in the EABC’s Recent US Federal Elections & the Transatlantic Relationship Forum

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 03:10:45 GMT

Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce President - Sophia Demetriades Toftdahl - participated in the EABC's recent Forum 'The US Federal Elections & Transatlantic Relationships' on Wednesday 4 November, 2020, together with many distinguished guests located in Sydney, Melbourne, New York City as well as participants across Australia and Europe.

The expert panel included EABC Board Member Stephen Loosley AM, Deputy Chair of Thales Australia and former Federal Senator and Chair of the Foreign Affairs Defence and Trade Committee and former National President of the Australian Labor Party; Dr Gorana Grgic, Lecturer at the Department of Government & International Relations and the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney; and Hon Andrew Robb AO, former Australian Trade Minister and Federal Director of the Liberal Party of Australia.

EABC Forum Photo Gallery - The US Federal Elections & Transatlantic Relationship, 4 NOV 20

The proceedings on the evening included welcome remarks from EABC Chair and Deputy Chancellor of Monash University Hon Simon Crean. At the conclusion of the session, EABC Corporate Council Member and Principal of Trade and Investment Advisory Zoe McKenzie proposed the Vote of Thanks to all speakers and panellists.

The event was held following the final day of voting in the 2020 US Elections and offered participants the opportunity to hear from a panel of expert commentators, who shared their views and takeaways on the campaigns for the Presidential, Senate and House of Representatives races; on significant trends in the emerging results; and the final outcome’s implications for Australia, the transatlantic relationship, and the many critical issues on the global affairs agenda including defence and security, multilateral institutions and the rules-based order, climate change, and many others. Following remarks from our panellists, we were joined for ‘live crosses’ from New York and received direct insights from Sky News correspondent James Morrow and Politico Senior Editor Ryan Heath on the political dynamics and situation on the ground.

For further information on the implications of President-elect Joe Biden’s election victory and the expected divergences from a second Trump administration; here is the link to the United States Studies Centre’s Guide, which includes key insights on the trajectory of US Foreign Policy in Europe from Dr Gorana Grgic.

EKORNES IS HIRING WAREHOUSE SUPPORT – APPLY NOW

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 03:08:39 GMT

Norwegian company EKORNES - well-known globally for its brand 'Stressless' - is seeking a Warehouse Support staff.

An initial 3 month role

that could lead to a full-time position.

See the Job Description here and use this email to apply..

Facilitated Work Hub – Expertise + Insight On ‘How To Organise Global Teams’

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 03:07:53 GMT

Today, more companies are embracing international remote workforce strategies. IDC expects by 2025, $21 billion will be lost in the Nordics as a result of delayed product or service releases and missed revenue, due to lack of skills available. But as a manager how can you foster a sense of belonging, ensure that your employees work efficiently, collaborate well and work towards the same goal when they are not in the same location?

Which Method Is The Best Way To Organise?

There are several ways to organize global teams. As a rule of thumb, you can link these to one of two methods, and sometimes it will be a combination of the two. On one hand, we have the classic method where teams in each location have their own specific goal and focus area. These teams are often independent. On the other hand, we have people that work together across locations with a common goal and focus.

Do you recognise using or having used one of these methods? No matter which way you organize your global teams, there are several points to consider.

When Global Teams Are Organised Based On Specific Goal and Focus Area

From a short-term perspective, assigning each team their own tasks may be the most effective way to work.

For example, ALL the front-end software developers are in Vietnam and ALL the back-end software developers are in Australia.

Advantages are:

Strong feeling of team unity and team ownership for team's success
Clear responsibilities for each team in different locations makes it easier for top management to keep track
Each department becomes specialists in an area or task

However, it is important to point out that based on our experience, this is only an effective way to organize autonomous teams if everything is running smoothly. Most of us who have worked in management for a while know that this is rarely the case.

Keep in mind the several pitfalls of organizing teams this way:

Interest, ownership and pride of the team is specific to the location and takes precedence over overall company success.
Lack of global communication and transparency.
A divided organization, where only the top level has an overview.
Lack of trust due to lack of collaboration, sense of belonging and information.
Lack of career advancement opportunities
The employee's affiliation is limited to the team in that location
All communication will be centralized through team leaders

Crucially, the perception of balance of power, can lead to power struggles and not teamwork.

So, if we weigh the pros and cons against each other, we quickly see that there are more challenges than benefits linked with this method.

Let's take a closer look at the alternative way.

When Global Teams Share a Common Purpose:

The article “Global Teams That Work”, from the Harvard Business Review, summarizes that global teams that succeed are those that have a common purpose and focus.

In this example, some front-end developers are in Vietnam and some in Australia, some back-end developers are in Vietnam and the rest in Australia. Each team is mixed with members in the same role but from different locations.

Advantages are:

Instead of “us vs them” mentality, collaboration is more efficient when team members across locations are integrated and work together.
Inter-team communication is enhanced because members of several teams now work in a single location.
Contribution to overall company success takes precedence with better understanding and knowledge of company goals and purpose.
Career development opportunities for EVERYONE regardless of location. This encourages self-development and benefits the entire company, not just a single location.
Long-term development opportunities for the individual strengthen the company's ability to retain good employees for long.

That said, in the short term, communication within the team across the globe will be affected by time zone, culture and language skills. However, this can be overcome by proper onboarding, integration, training and understanding the purpose of their role in the company, rather than just following instructions from the top management. Organising your teams this way can lead to long term stability, growth and better risk management.

Invest In Long Term Success

If you want to organize a global team and at the same time ensure affiliation, collaboration and efficiency across the departments, our advice is simple. Invest in long-term success and bring in employees who align with this. You achieve this best when employees get to develop their value, feel ownership and belonging to your company. If you think like this, the possibilities will be many, and you will have a truly integrated team consisting of the best people regardless of location, who all work with one goal in mind - your company's success.

For 13 years Facilitated Work Hub has worked with international collaboration, recruitment, facilitation and integration of remote permanent full time software developers in companies. We have seen several different ways in which companies work with global teams and know the challenges and opportunities companies face with international collaboration.

DNV GL Latest Research Helping Shipowners Decarbonise Fuel + Engines

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 03:07:13 GMT

New Research from DNV GL Helps Shipowners Choose Fuels and Engines to Keep Vessels Commercially Viable in a Decarbonizing World

Decarbonizing shipping will require faster technology development, large-scale piloting and appropriate safety standards. DNV GL's fourth edition of Maritime Forecast to 2050 sets out three decarbonization pathways for shipping and explores detailed energy mix and fleet composition scenarios. Plus it aims to assist shipowners in choosing the right fuel and technology options for next-generation ships and sets out three decarbonization pathways for shipping and also explores detailed energy mix and fleet composition scenarios, based on different energy prices, demand growth and regulatory options.

The findings all help to pick the right fuel solution for future-proofed vessels and scenario modelling showing possible decarbonization pathways.

CHECK OUT THE FULL REPORT HERE

Hydrogen To Deeply Decarbonize Oil and Gas Industry From Mid-2030s

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 03:06:41 GMT

New research from DNV GL forecasts that hydrogen will be a catalyst for deeply decarbonizing the oil and gas value chain, transforming the oil and gas industry in the process, but it won’t begin to scale as an energy carrier until the mid-2030s.

Explore the outlook for hydrogen and for decarbonizing the oil and gas industry in DNV GL's dedicated Energy Transition Outlook report for the industry providing an independent forecast of developments in the world’s energy system to 2050.

Furthermore, get insights into the multiple energy transitions taking place around the world, as energy demand slows, oil demand never again reaches the levels of 2019, and natural gas becomes the world’s largest energy source.

Equinor Collaborates with Microsoft on Northern Lights Carbon Capture and Storage Value Chain

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 03:06:07 GMT

Equinor has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Microsoft to explore ways to support the Northern Lights carbon capture and storage (CCS) project as a technology partner. Microsoft will explore using the project to enable the transportation and storage of captured CO₂ . Equinor is developing the project together with Shell and Total as equal partners.

“Carbon capture and storage is a proven technology and has the potential to play a key role in decarbonizing energy and industries across sectors to meet international climate targets,” said Equinor Executive Vice President Irene Rummelhoff. “We look forward to working together with Microsoft and the Northern Lights partners to develop digital technologies for Northern Lights. We are also happy to partner with Microsoft to explore opportunities for the Northern Light project to remove carbon from Microsoft’s operations.”

“One of the world’s imperatives is the need to develop new ways to capture, transport, and permanently store carbon. This will require enormous investment and innovation, including a huge amount of computing power and data,” said Brad Smith, president of Microsoft. "As a company, Microsoft is excited about and committed to supporting promising carbon capture approaches. Our goal is not only to contribute our technology and know-how, but explore how new solutions like the Northern Lights project can help us meet our own carbon negative goals by 2030.”

Irene Rummelhoff, Equinor’s executive vice president for Marketing, Midstream and Processing (MMP), and Brad Smith, president of Microsoft. (Photo: Ole Jørgen Bratland)

Equinor and Microsoft have agreed to:

Explore a technology collaboration to integrate Microsoft’s digital expertise into the Northern Lights project.
Microsoft will explore the use of Northern Lights' CO₂ transport and storage facility as part of Microsoft’s portfolio of carbon capture, transportation, and storage projects.
Explore ways for Microsoft to invest in the effective development of Northern Lights.
Explore and establish advocacy of policies that help accelerate the contribution CCS can make to meeting Europe’s climate goals.

“Together with the other Northern Lights partners, we will explore how this carbon capture and storage project can help potential future customers to mitigate emissions caused by their own energy use. This relationship will make decarbonization solutions including carbon capture and storage technology available to increasing numbers of customers,” says Syrie Crouch, Vice President for CCUS in Shell.

Prime Minister Erna Solberg at the signing ceremony for the MoU. (Photo: Ole Jørgen Bratland)

“As an historic CCS partner of Norway since 1996, Total is proud that its renewed commitment with Northern Lights project enables this new cooperation with Microsoft. Northern Lights and its partners are at the fore front of offering innovative services to the industry worldwide. We believe that this will be the start of a fruitful collaboration in line with our ambition to get to net zero by 2050.’’ says Gabrielle Gauthey, Senior Vice President Carbon Neutrality Businesses at Total.

Equinor, Shell and Total made a conditional investment decision on the Northern Lights CO₂ transport and storage project in May 2020. Pending approval by regulatory authorities, the project partners will form a joint venture. It will be responsible for creating an open-source, ship-based carbon transport and storage network including developing business models to store captured CO₂ from across Europe. The final investment decision is subject to the Norwegian parliament’s approval, anticipated late 2020. The plan is to start operations in the first half of 2024.

MoUs have been signed with eight European entities representing different industries, including Air Liquide, Arcelor Mittal, Ervia, Fortum Oyj, HeidelbergCement AG, Preem, Stockholm Exergi and ETH Zürich. As part of the MoUs, the parties are looking at solutions for CO₂ delivery, transport and storage of CO₂, including logistics, CO₂ specifications and roadmap towards potential start of operations.

Bulk, Cruise & Ro-Ro Operators get Wilhelmsen’s Digital Mooring System

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 03:05:23 GMT

The Maritime Executive's latest news- offering consistently faster, more efficient, and safer mooring, Synergy Ocean, Viking Cruises, Berge Bulk and Finnlines have all signed up to be first to utilize Wilhelmsen’s one of a kind digital mooring system aboard their vessels.

Developed and refined over the past three years, Wilhelmsen’s Smart Ropes system is poised to dramatically improve mooring safety onboard vessels. Based on the experience from rigorous testing aboard a working ro-ro vessel, all parts of the system have been refined and improved in readiness for the next phase of installations.

Comprising a patent-pending measuring unit, embedded within the mooring rope, the ‘smart’ unit transmits key tension, time, temperature data in addition to a combination of parameters that make up the proprietary system design. Using the latest wireless communication, the data is sent to a command module located on the bridge, designed to work even under the most challenging mooring conditions typically experienced in poor weather. This data is processed and transferred to a live feed, running on a tablet, or computer on the ship’s bridge, backed-up in the cloud.

Helping to ensure mooring ropes have the right tension, in the right place, at the right time, all the time, Wilhelmsen’s unique system, has been specifically developed in order to relegate over tensioned lines, premature wear of ropes and in the worst-case scenario unexpected rope failures, to history.

Magnus Dickens, Venture Lead in Wilhelmsen Marine Products’ recently established Open Innovation function, says, “This isn’t a gimmick or another piece of badly thought out maritime bloatware. We have spent years developing a completely new technology, which brings accuracy, transparency and consistency to a task which is currently haphazard and fraught with risk. We are thrilled to partner up with these four, forward-learning companies who share our vision of safer, more effective, data-driven mooring operations”.

Capt. Shivram Volety, Director of Synergy Ocean Maritime Inc. says, “Seeing the tension of a vessel’s mooring ropes for the first time, in real time, via an app is a novelty. But it absolutely shouldn’t be, it should be necessity. Wilhelmsen are determined to push the boundaries and we Synergy Ocean Maritime Inc., are proud to be one of the first companies to be able to benefit from their Smart Ropes system”.

He adds, “Safety is at the forefront of our operations, at sea and in port and we are always looking for new systems, products, and processes that can further improve how we work. At Synergy Ocean we are wholeheartedly committed to technology-enabled ship management for safer and efficient ship operations. That is why we are keen to explore and analyse Wilhelmsen’s Smart Ropes mooring system and want to be one of the first companies to have the system installed. It has the potential to totally revolutionize vessel mooring, making our port calls quicker, more efficient and most importantly safer”.

The first installations of the system will begin in Q3, with 4 vessels using SmartRopes onboard. The 4 vessels represent very different vessel segments with unique challenges, and Wilhelmsen will work closely with the customers to solve any specific pain points.

Utilizing the latest wireless protocols optimized for low battery usage, the sensor, its outer casing and the command module elements have all been improved over several iterations, in collaboration with engineering partner Hugg. Housed in a cigar-shaped, heavy duty metal baton, the final version of the sensor and battery unit weighs just under 1kg and has no influence or impact on the handling of the ropes it sits within.

Capturing live load distribution data, the system provides vessels complete transparency when it comes to rope tension, with the bridge able to see the tension in each of their mooring lines, via a dedicated app which runs on a tablet or laptop.

In addition, this data will prove invaluable as Wilhelmsen looks to further push the boundaries of rope technology by subscribing to a ‘Safe by Design’ philosophy encompassed within its wider Timm Ropes portfolio.

Aussie Company ‘Great Southern Technologies’ Shining Example of Successful Licence Agreement with Norway’s Waste to Energy (WtE) Dynamo ‘Energos Technology AS’

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 03:04:30 GMT

We often don't hear about those Australian companies that have successfully negotiated Licence Agreements with Norwegian companies. But one shining example is that of Australia's Great Southern Technologies (GSWT) and Norways's Energos Technology AS.

Our member, Great Southern Waste Technologies (GSWT), is an Australian company, co-owned and co-founded by its Managing Director, Mr Craig Gilbert and supported by GSWT CFO Mr Bill Keating, who successfully negotiated a Licence Agreement with Norwegian based Waste to Energy (WtE) technology supplier Energos Technology AS, to exclusively deploy this proven technology in Australia.

The Energos patented technology has extensive and well proven history in operations, and most importantly, functions exceptionally well and far below all prescribed limits for emissions under current EU Emissions Directives, those emissions limit’s similarly adopted by Australian Environmental Protection Agencies.

Currently, GSWT has a site nominated in Dandenong Victoria, for the first planned development of the Energos WtE to thermally treat ~ 100,000 tonnes per annum of household/commercial & industrial wastes and is well advanced in various stages of development. And their Dandenong project has now received Planning Approval from Local Council.

Environmental Works Approval from Victoria EPA has been granted, however it remains the subject of a VCAT review, brought about by Local Council. GSWT are confident that the Environmental Approval progressed by the Vic EPA (as issued) was stringently assessed from various but not limited pathways such as Environmental, Science, Chemistry, Emissions & Human Health.

To find out more, take a look at the full copy of the Environmental Approval accessed here as well as the summary document.

Although various concerns have been raised by community groups, as WtE is generally a new concept in Australia, it is not an incinerator, but rather a two stage gasification process.

Craig and his team are making sure that extensive Stakeholder and Community engagement are ongoing and will continue.

Waste to Energy must principally align with Victoria’s Circular Economy Policy objectives, and as such, does not seek or desire, to undermine Recycling practices. WtE, quite simply, is a finishing process to deal in a more environmentally effective manner with residual wastes from households and specific industries, to extract the embedded energy that would be otherwise entombed if not lost in landfill forever.

The centralized model contemplated, allows for a “region” to manage its own wastes, and not rely on heavy vehicle transport crisscrossing one side of the metropolis to the other, as landfill in the South East of Melbourne, will likely be redundant by 2025/6, meaning a proportion of waste from the south east, will likely need to be transported to landfills in the west or north.

The Dandenong project has capacity to generate electricity to power equivalent of around 7000 homes, and provide a net GHG benefit around 142,800 t CO2e.

GSWT is also now advancing its focus on residual wastes from Resource Recovery and Recycling streams, as there will always be a residual, and WtE can deal with this residual. Waste to Product is also being looked at and how this can invigorate the manufacturing industry to develop useable products for markets and industry.

Further links and videos of interest:

About Craig Gilbert:

Commercial & Industrial Property Development
Manager for Project delivery from greenfield to finished product
Expanded into Civil Project Construction and land remediation
Commenced looking at environmentally alternative solutions to Waste (generally) in 2014
Currently driving the GSWT team for Waste to Energy Project in Dandenong
Vision to look for solutions to align with Circular Economy outcomes and how this can integrate to assist in invigorating Manufacturing in Victoria/Australia.

Stay tuned for further updates from Craig and his team as this innovative waste project gathers momentum and traction.

Construction Starts On The World’s Largest Floating Offshore Wind Farm

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 03:03:54 GMT

EQUINOR's Latest News profiles Norway's Prime Minister Erna Solberg and Kværner Apprentice, Arne Linga, starting construction of Hywind Tampen, a floating offshore wind farm technology project, at Kværner Stord, opening up new opportunities for Norwegian industry.

Photo: Øyvind Gravås - WoldCam / Equinor ASA)

Prime Minister Solberg and Mr Linga started the 'cutting robot' on the project's first sheet of steel on Thursday, 1 October. Kværner’s assignment will include building 11 floating concrete hulls for the turbines on Hywind Tampen.

"Hywind Tampen is a new chapter in Norway’s narrative as an energy nation. With support from the Norwegian authorities, we're not only building Norway’s first offshore wind project; we're refining floating offshore wind technology along with the Norwegian supplier industry," says Equinor president and CEO Eldar Sætre.

"Eighty percent of the world's offshore wind resources are located in deep water areas and are available for floating offshore wind projects. If we can use projects like Hywind Tampen to make floating offshore wind competitive with other forms of energy, the technology will be able to deliver large-scale renewable power and contribute to a more sustainable global energy supply. A floating offshore wind market will also open up considerable industrial opportunities for Norwegian industry," Sætre says.

The development of the Hywind Tampen project involves around 250 full-time equivalents for Kværner employees. Kværner's project will also generate around 800 full-time equivalents in ripple effects for suppliers and the public sector, among others.

Photo: CEO CEO Eldar Sætre at Kværner Stord. (Photo: Øyvind Gravås - WoldCam / Equinor ASA)

A study conducted by Multiconsult shows that, in total, the Hywind Tampen project could provide 1,550 to 3,000 full-time equivalents in ripple effects for the Norwegian private sector.

Equinor's ambition is for floating offshore wind to be competitive with other forms of energy by 2030.

"By using larger turbines, concrete substructures, new technology and a new assembly method, we're well on our way toward delivering on the objective to reduce costs by more than 40% compared with Hywind Scotland. This is an important step to establish floating wind as a sustainable power supply alternative," says Hywind Tampen project director Olav-Bernt Haga.

"If more major floating offshore wind projects are realised in the future, it will be possible to reduce costs even further, and we could see a development in cost reductions equivalent to the one we've seen in fixed foundation offshore wind," Haga says.

Equinor sees a potential for floating offshore wind projects in Norway, the UK, Europe, the US and Asia.

The Hywind Tampen project will be the first floating offshore wind project to supply renewable power for oil and gas installations. The wind farm will have a total capacity of 88 MW, and is expected to cover about 35 percent of the annual power needs on the five platforms Snorre A and B and Gullfaks A, B and C.

Solved! Takeaways from Last Weeks Discussion with Andrew Wear

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 03:03:20 GMT

KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM ANDREW WEAR’S ENGAGING AND ENLIGHTENING SESSION

What is Australia good at:

Immigration: resulting in one of the biggest world economies
Inequality in carbon emissions and renewables

What are the Nordics good at and what Australia can learn from Norway and its’ neighbours:

Low social economic inequality and greater income. High income = low inequality
Above average in equality and incomes
Norway has a strong democracy and is one of the happiest countries in the world
Norway has high economic participation and social inclusion
Norwegians work 6.5 weeks less that Australians + have one of the lowest working hours in the world, resulting in greater labour productivity since Norwegians/Nordics work less and are well rested compared to Australia and the rest of the world
Denmark’s Samu Island has a farming community of 4,000 and is Denmark’s renewable energy island, providing a good example of how a farming community revitalised itself by investing in and owning the wind turbines. Their ownership of the turbines resulted in minimised opposition. Even as a nation producer of pig manure, Denmark as a whole halved its per capita carbon emissions compared with Australia who had increased theirs.
Their economies have increased and grown as carbon emissions declined
Gender equality in Iceland is one of the highest globally with Norway placed in the Top 3:
- 1^st Iceland
- 2^nd Norway
- 3^rd Finland + Sweden
Nordics countries are also very good at female workforce participation, with Iceland leading the way with no gender pay gap
Germany’s success has been driven and achieved by medium sized businesses supporting innovation + unique areas of production and ‘narrow niches’ such as in manufacturing and how to build innovative ecosystems in their cities
Unique historical and political environments leading to quotas on Boards of Listed Companies to include women which is not the case in Australia. Could this be due to the fact that this too culturally embedded and is not transferable to Australia? Plus, the Nordic’s 50% representation of women on public Board of companies leads us to reflect that this may not be possible in Australia due to these cultural manifestations.
Australia is stuck and can’t see its way out when it comes to Energy and Climate and will need a to use a ‘circuit breaker’ to help see our way out.

Andrew Also Raised our Awareness To Consider:

No country is perfect and even Norway has issues grappling with oil and gas and how our reliance on this energy source can be reduced.
All countries are in a conundrum but they need to have an open mind and how they can innovate. Singapore provides inspiration in another key element: Education. 10 years ago Finland was leading the world in this domain. Today it is Singapore; a reminder that we also need to keep any eye on who is achieving which comes with a different mindset and how to allocate privilege.

Key Questions Raised:

How can we apply these lessons raised by Andrew in ‘Solved! How other countries have cracked the world’s biggest problems and we can too!’?
Andrew’s observation is that the current recession resulting from Covid-19 will be with us for a long time and that the Australian Government will play a role for considerable period ahead as the economy will need physical stimulus. At the same time, the government can reconfigure and learn. While the debates are around infrastructure delivery they actually should be on service sectors, such as hospitality, with lots of conversations for reshaping companies and not ‘business as usual’ as Andrew sees that this is a great opportunity for businesses to make change.
Renewables, according to Andrew, will be a way to stimulate economies and this is where Australia can learn from the Denmark and the Nordics in this recovery period.
Studies and research were also cited as one domino that can provide inspiration to do and get the ball rolling.
Inequality: cited as critical and very bad for economic growth and that labour participation is vital. It can be addressed through more equity in education and the labour market which would put Australia in good stead if it can overcome gender and labour inequality.
Andrew emphasised that how we address inequality during this period is key as well as learning from Norway and its Nordic neighbours.
According to the IMF, tax cuts in Australia will not and cannot provide growth but Andrew remains confident that we ‘tick all the boxes’ and like the Nordics we have good robust economics and the institutional architecture to move through weighty problems. And that solutions do exist!
What can Nordic/Northern European countries work on: according to Andrew there are a couple of areas, with carbon emissions reductions being one and innovation being the other. According to Andrew, on a competitive scale, Nordic countries are not quite as innovative as Australia. Which poses the question, where would Norway be without oil? Denmark not too far behind in those metrics although it doesn’t have oil. But all are in the same realm of statistics so can no longer put success down to oil

And as a final takeaway, the upside of both Nordic countries and Australia: crime rates are low compared to other European countries such as Germany and the UK. And their smaller populations encourage and enable change and for decisions to be made faster and more easily. And this where both Norway and Australia can make headway in these months and years ahead.

AN ACCIDENTAL AUSTRALIAN – TAX RESIDENCY IN A COVID ERA

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 04:00:30 GMT

hanges to tax residency ideally involve careful planning however at the height of the global pandemic, many Australian expatriates working overseas had no option but to promptly return to Australia with little thought given to the possible tax implications of their return. In addition, many foreign expatriates found themselves stranded in Australia.

Six months down the track, with travel restrictions largely still in place, this group of individuals may be running the risk of becoming accidental Australian tax residents. Changes to tax residency can have some significant implications and this brief seeks to highlight some of the key areas for consideration for both individuals and employers.

When am I an Australian tax resident?

Determining tax residency will always be a question of fact and must be considered for each income year ending 30 June, based on an individual’s circumstances. Broadly, there are three main tests of tax residency in Australia, being:

The Resides Test

When considering the relevant circumstances and facts, does the individual ordinarily reside in Australia. Relevant factors include:

· Behaviour while in Australia:

- Intention or purpose of presence

- Family and business/employment ties

- Maintenance and location of assets

- Social and living arrangements.

· The period of physical presence in Australia:

- Degree of continuity of the stay

- Habit

- Routine

The Domicile Test

Is the individual’s domicile in Australia? This can be a person’s domicile of origin or domicile of choice.

An exception to this test is where the individual has a permanent place of abode overseas.

The 183 Day Test

Has the individual been physically present in Australia for 183 days or more in an income year ending 30 June?

An exception to this test is where the individual’s usual place of abode is overseas, and the individual has no intention to take up residence in Australia.

In assessing the above tests, an individual’s intention regarding remaining in Australia temporarily or otherwise is an important factor to not only consider, but also to support a position as the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) often has the benefit of hindsight when reviewing tax residency matters.

Testing residency in the era of COVID

Foreign expats in Australia

The inability to depart Australia during COVID-19 has generated uncertainty for many regarding their tax residency status in Australia. In response, the ATO has released limited guidance that provides that a foreign resident will not become an Australian resident where they are stranded here temporarily (i.e. for weeks or months) due to COVID-19, if they usually live overseas permanently and importantly, they intend to return overseas as soon as they are able.

However, the longer the crisis continues and the longer the individual stays in Australia, the less likely that the ATO will consider their stay to be temporary, particularly given that whilst travel bans are in place, individuals are mostly free to return to their home countries.

TIP: Where foreign expats have entered Australia on a temporary visa, they may be considered to be a temporary resident for Australian tax purposes where certain conditions are satisfied. The taxation rules for temporary residents are more concessional than those set out below.

Australian expats returning

Returning Australian expats may find that proving their stay in Australia is temporary is especially difficult, given the likelihood that they will have existing social and family links to Australia and may have retained some Australian assets, including a home.

Given the subjective nature of tax residency and the importance of demonstrating an individual’s intention, individuals must be aware that there may be a tipping point in which their intention to return overseas is at odds with their actions. For example, the following factors may be indicative of a change in a person’s intention to remain in Australia for the short to medium term:

Making Australian living arrangements more permanent (i.e. signing a 6 or 12-month rental lease or buying a family home), especially when coupled with giving up an overseas residence. This would likely mean that an individual would no longer have a permanent place of abode overseas.
Enrolling children in local schools
Joining Australian clubs (and cancelling foreign memberships)
Foreign employment ending (i.e. through resignation or termination)
Opening Australian bank accounts (and closing foreign ones).

Happy new year – are you a resident?

Given that we have now crossed over in to the 2021 financial year, the 183-day test becomes increasingly important, particularly given recent case law (FCT v Addy) regarding this test. Judgments from the case are suggestive that even if an individual is living in Australia on a temporary basis and intends to return to their home country, they may be considered to be an Australian resident where they are still in Australia on 1 January 2021 (on the basis that their stay in Australia would exceed 183 days in an income year).

TIP: Those individuals that find themselves in this scenario, are encouraged to seek tax advice and consider raising the matter with the ATO, to ensure the ATO can be satisfied as to the individual’s usual place of abode being overseas and the intention to reside overseas.. It is important that individual’s robustly document their circumstances, including that they have maintained a home overseas, still have foreign employment and importantly are able demonstrate their intention to return overseas.

You’re a resident – so what?

Australian tax residency comes with the requirement to lodge an Australian tax return and pay Australian tax (and likely the Medicare Levy and surcharge, depending on whether exemptions apply) on income from worldwide sources. Further, of particular concern for the accidental tax resident is Australia’s deemed acquisition and disposal rules for assets which are subject to the capital gains tax rules.

Under these rules, an individual who becomes an Australian tax resident (other than a temporary resident) is deemed to have acquired all their assets other than taxable Australian property (e.g. shares, foreign property, term deposits, interests in other entities, foreign currency deposits) for their market value at the time they became an Australian tax resident.

Establishing the date of residency will therefore be a critical factor and depending on the particular asset’s market value, the resetting of an asset’s cost base to market value could have varied results, which may or may not be advantageous to the individual.

Should an individual ultimately leave Australia and cease to be an Australian tax resident ( i.e. where travel restrictions are eased), they will be deemed to have disposed of all assets other than taxable Australian property for the asset’s market value at the date they cease being an Australian tax resident. The likelihood of being taxed on an asset that has not been disposed of and to which no proceeds have been received, can be a significant concern for affected individuals.

It is also noted that the CGT discount will not be available if a foreign asset is sold (or deemed to be sold) within 12 months of the individual becoming a resident.

NOTE: Individuals can elect to disregard a deemed disposal, however where an election is made, the assets are effectively taken to be Australian assets that will be subject to Australian capital gains tax when the asset is actually sold.

TIP: Where an individual is considered a resident of both Australia and another country and Australia has a Double Tax Agreement (DTA) with the other country (i.e. such as Norway), the DTA should be considered to determine which country has taxing rights for income and gains and whether there is relief from double taxation.

TIP: A credit for tax paid overseas on foreign source income may be available in Australia to offset Australian tax payable. This may also depend on the terms of the relevant DTA Australia may have with the foreign country.

Other tax implications

Where a foreign resident becomes an Australian tax resident, the following non-exhaustive tax implications may also occur:

Foreign employment income will be taxed at Australian tax rates when received, regardless of whether it was in respect of work performed prior to the change in residency.
The impact of COVID and accidental Australian residency may have the unwelcome effect of dual residency – i.e. where two jurisdictions consider an individual to be a tax resident and tax them accordingly. Relief from double taxation may be available where a DTA between the jurisdictions exists.
Foreign companies owned and controlled by a now Australian resident may also be subject to a tax residency change and further tax implications.
Withholding tax obligations may exist in respect of interest payable on foreign loans.
The tax implications of foreign exchange fluctuations must be considered in respect of foreign currency.
Interests in foreign companies and trusts must be considered as Australia has complex rules regarding such interests. Income derived by such entities can be taxable to individuals in Australia even though no actual distribution of income is made to the individual.
Individuals that decide to stay in Australia permanently may wish to consider the transfer of their foreign pensions to Australia. Where such a transfer is being contemplated, it is strongly advised that tax advice be sought prior to any transfer, as there are a number of considerations and getting it wrong may have significant adverse tax implications.

Still a foreign resident ..?

Expatriate employment income

Ordinarily, and subject to any relevant DTA, foreign residents will only be taxed on Australian source income. This may include employment income earned whilst being stranded in Australia.

For those foreign residents who have received paid leave while in Australia and for those non-residents that have earned salary and wages from short term (i.e. less than 3 months) remote working arrangements, employment income will not be taxable in Australia.

Furthermore, those non-residents whose working arrangements in Australia have or will continue for longer than three months, careful consideration should be given to employment terms and other matters, including their intention to leave or stay in Australia, when contemplating whether Australian tax will be imposed.

In limited circumstances, employment income will not be deemed to have an Australian source (and will not be subject to Australian tax) where a non-resident, who due to COVID, has had to work from Australia but intends to leave Australia as soon as they are able to and has no other connections here.

Employer obligations

The ATO have advised that from 1 July 2020, foreign resident employers must withhold PAYG for any:

Australian resident employees; and
foreign resident employees whose employment income is Australian sourced income.

Exceptions may apply for foreign resident employees for whom a DTA exception applies, which may broadly allow foreign residents to earn Australian sourced employment income for a short period (usually 183 days in an income year) free from Australian tax.

Superannuation Guarantee (SG) contributions, fringe benefits tax and payroll tax obligations also need to be considered as these obligations are separate from rules relating to the taxation of employment income.

TIP: Employers with displaced foreign employees will need to re-assess any tax compliance obligations that may now exist post 1 July 2020 and take steps to manage these obligations. Importantly, employers should continue to make enquiries as to the residency status of any employees as this may have changed.

Key Takeaways

Employers

Confirm the conditions and time periods of the relevant DTA (if any) for any short-term tax exemptions on Australian employment obligations.
Check in with employees and understand their circumstances and intentions around staying in Australia. It is important to remember that despite any relief available, employers must withhold if they believe at the time that employment income is paid, based on the facts and circumstances of that employee is likely to remain in Australia for more than the applicable time period.
While exemptions for PAYG withholding may apply- other employment obligations (i.e. SG) may still apply.

Individuals

Confirm the conditions and time periods of the relevant DTA (if any)- particularly in light of the 183-day test.
Remember an intention to live overseas needs to marry up with actions and behaviour.
If uncertainty exists – seek tax advice and consider early engagement with the ATO.
Where individuals plan to return to their overseas lives, it is strongly advised that they document and demonstrate their overseas ties and their intention to return.
Where Australian residency is likely, the date of residency change and the tax implications must be carefully considered and documented.

This information is current as of 18 September 2020, however, please note that announcements and changes are being made by the Government and the ATO regularly, and we expect that the tax and business-related responses will continue to evolve.

If you would like to discuss any matters in this newsletter in further detail, please do not hesitate to contact either Rachel Pritchard or Robyn Dyson of Cooper Partners on 08 6311 6900.

This information is general advice only and neither purports, nor is intended to be advice on any particular matter.
No responsibility can be accepted for those who act on the contents of this publication without first contacting us and obtaining specific advice.
Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.
For further information please refer to our privacy policy.

Robyn Dyson, Senior Manager Rachel Pritchard, Principal, Leader in Human Capital

CINDERELLA ECO GROUP – ONE OF NORWAY’S LEADING GREEN TECHNOLOGIES

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 03:59:51 GMT

Norway's official marketplace platform for green technology - The Explorer - a free matchmaking service for connecting global challenges with green solutions - funded by the Ministry of Climate and supported by Norway's largest private companies together with Innovation Norway - profiles Cinderella Eco Incineration Toilets at the forefront of this green revolution.

*Photo above shows a Cinderella a technology meeting with (from left) Mari Lise Andersen Sunde, SCM consultant, Gunhild Sjøvik, CEO and Bård Olav Sugustad, CTO

The Explorer portal promotes green technology from Norway to the world. Here you can read short texts about some of the most exciting green solutions on offer from leading Norwegian companies. These are distributed to a large and targeted international audience through digital channels, events, embassies and more.

An important requirement for companies is that they meet one or more of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDG's)
With our water-free toilets, Cinderella Eco Group is particularly involved in meeting the goals of SDG number 6: Clean water and sanitation for all by 2030. We mark the UN's World Water Day every year on March 22 and UN World Toilet Day on November 19. Both these dates are important to us, highlighting the fact that over half of the world's population, 4,2 billion people, still lack safe toilets.

In addition, SDG number 3, Good Health, is of crucial importance to us. Our solutions ensure pathogen-free waste, free of all harmful bacteria, which prevents the transmission of infections and diseases in water and soils that cause high mortality. Every year, we mark World Health Day on April 7.

Proud to be listed among leading green innovators
The Explorer contributes to promote Norwegian exports and value creation and Cinderella is proud to be in such celebrated company with some of the country's most innovative environmentally conscious contributors. See the link to the presentation of Cinderella Eco Group in the portal here. Be sure to click on the film to see more.

Continuously developing our CSR strategies
As a sustainably managed company, located in a small island community in the heart of the Norwegian fjords on the mid-western coast, Cinderella Eco Group is part of a family owned company in its fourth generation. CEO Gunhild Sjøvik is dedicated to bringing grounded, local family values into every part of the company’s value chain. This means a continuous focus on developing responsible management and respecting those resources we are given and those we create.

When nature calls, is a payoff Cinderella uses to bring a smile to the obvious, but it also imparts a deeper meaning: respecting our planet and each other in the best way we can.

TAKE A LOOK AT CINDERELLA ECO'S SUBLIME VIDEO BELOW

Credits -Text: Trude B-J Margel - Photo: Tingh Kommunikasjon, Molde

Meet Our Members

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 03:58:43 GMT

New Young Professional Member Anastasia Serafimovska is a researcher with first class psychology honours and a strong background in neuroscience and pharmacology.

At the University of Sydney, Anastasia is involved in developing and evaluating data-driven decision-making tools spanning psycho-oncology to addiction contexts.

She is a strong advocate for collaboratively channelling the strengths of academia and industry to culminate in lasting societal and economic benefits. By joining the Norwegian Chamber, Anastasia is keen to meet like-minded people over akvavit and explore how her interests in mental health, predictive analyses and mathematically modelling big data can support members and industry.

To find out more, you can connect with Anastasia via her LinkedIn profile.

FLOKK SPECIAL ‘NACC MEMBERS ONLY’ DISCOUNT OFFER….DON’T MISS OUT!

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 03:57:25 GMT

With working from home becoming the 'de rigeur' for many, Flokk is offering our members in Australia a special discount of 5%-10% off* products from their leading Norwegian brand HÅG. A range of products providing superior ergonomics and visually stimulating home and office chairs.

There is a wide variety of products to choose from and it has been suggested by Flokk Australia’s General Manager, Andrew Green, that you visit the HÅG landing page on the Flokk website to learn some more about the brand. The most popular HÅG products sold in the Australian market is the iconic HÅG Capisco, the HÅG Capisco Puls, the HÅG SoFi Mesh and the HÅG Futu Mesh chairs.

To get ‘a get a little piece of Norway’ into your home office – and the best offer and discount too – shoot an email through to the team at Flokk Australia for them to help you select your dream chair from this amazing brand that designs and manufactures it’s product out of Norway.

*Offer ends 30 SEPTEMBER 2020

Member Monthly Spotlight

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 03:56:51 GMT

BUSINESS MEMBER
Vivien Brimelow - Owner, Chiropaedic - Chiropractic, Rehabilitation + Neuro-Muscular Skeletal Assessment

Chiropaedic is a holistically focused chiropractic and healthcare practice based at St Leonards in Sydney - very accessible for those working and residing in North Sydney and Sydney’s North Shore. Providing members of their community with high quality, affordable health care in a comfortable and caring environment is Chiropaedic’s principal mission and purpose. Their goal is to not only alleviate pain, but more importantly, inspire and educate their patients to become active participants in their own well-being. Their approach is a holistic one, whereby they treat the entire person, not just their symptoms. Through this comprehensive and structured approach, they are better able to help their patients achieve optimal levels of health and wellness, so they may express their true potential and unique greatness.

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL MEMBER
Warm welcome to new Young Professional Member Anastasia Serafimovska, a young researcher with first class psychology honours and a strong background in neuroscience and pharmacology.

At the University of Sydney, Anastasia is involved in developing and evaluating data-driven decision-making tools spanning psycho-oncology to addiction contexts.

Transition Faster Report Series: Accelerating the Energy Transition Together

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 03:56:03 GMT

Global warming will have catastrophic consequences for humanity – this is why we signed the Paris Agreement. Five years on, we have not made the progress required to deliver this.

To inspire and inform, DNV GL has launched Transition Faster Together, a series of reports which outlines the predictions, strategies and solutions to help us accelerate the energy transition.

These reports are supported by an industry information source, the ‘Transition Faster Hub’, which showcases best-in class projects, technology, innovation, solutions and thought leadership from DNV GL's experts and the wider industry.

Explore their hub today and download the report here.

Technology, policy and societal change have the power to create a clean energy future, but we certainly need to accelerate considerably to stay ahead.

Kongsberg Defence Australia’s Leading Technology – Working With Australia’s Defence Force For Over 20 Years

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 03:54:54 GMT

Kongsberg Defence Australia’s Leading Technology and latest collaboration illustrates its close working relationship for over 20 years with Australia’s Defence Force.

Yara International ASA Shares Second Quarter Results 2020

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 03:53:54 GMT

For those you who are interested in tuning in to the Yara International ASA Second Quarter 2020 Report and Presentation, put a place holder in your agendas for

Friday 17 July 2020 at 08:00 (CEST)

This will be followed by

an On-line Presentation in English

Q&A Session will held on the same day at 12:00 (CEST)

hosted by

Yara President and CEO Svein Tore Holsether

CFO Lars Røsæg

and

EVP Farming Solutions Terje Knutsen

Access link to the report, presentation and webcast here.

France’s Olympique Lyonnais: Bringing Together Australian and Norwegian Top Female Soccer Players

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 03:51:10 GMT

In case you missed it...did you know that Norwegian women’s football star Ada Hegerberg and Australian female soccer player Ellie Carpenter now both play for France’s Olympique Lyonnais, the six-time European Champions League winner and 14 times champions of France’s Division 1 Feminine.

No doubt, with the addition of the Aussie player, this dynamic combo will show how our two nationals can team together with some of the biggest names in women’s football to power, unite and drive the team with their talent and sportsmanship.

Spotlight on Norway and Australia – Similarities and Comparisons As We Move Forward Into a Post-Covid-19 Landscape

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 03:50:22 GMT

Following up from our previous co-hosted virtual round-table event, the Norwegian Embassy in Australia and the Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce provided insights into the Norway-Australia trade relationship and how the Embassy too in Canberra is now working remotely and remaining connected everyday with their Australian political and trade counterparts, their colleagues in Perth and Melbourne as well as Australian-based Norwegian companies who have shared their Covid-19 feedback and experiences. A number of these companies reported their focus has been on bringing their people together while working remotely. DOF Subsea’s Michael Rosich and Empeiria Consultancy's Miles Ponsonby both noticed and observed that while communications have been less frequent, they have found that while working from home they have had more peace and quiet to focus on the priorities and that they are now seeing business and operations start to pick up here while others are struggling globally. As Michael Rosich shared, while it appears there have been challenges, they are actually doing better than some organisations and not as bad as others which is encouraging.

NORWEP has also been active, using this period to profile and present Norwegian companies’ energy technology capabilities via virtual sessions and by attending webinars and other online events rather than traditional office visits. From what they have been experiencing and hearing from these companies so far is that business has actually not only been positive but even more positive than expected. Norway has also been faring and managing Covid-19 better than some other countries, including one of their neighbour’s, Sweden. Overall, their interactions have revealed that Australia, New Zealand and Scandinavia in general are doing well, including recovery from the pandemic. They have also cited a shift in consumer focus, with some companies such as Ekornes, achieving good success and positive results while shipping, transport and oil industries are struggling to deal with lower prices.

Another upside, is the rise and prominence of new sectors such as renewable energy and renewable energy transition. Their conversations and discussions with DFAT have shown how like-minded nations, such as Norway and New Zealand, are ‘safe suppliers’ although there appears to now be a trend and tendency of making countries less reliant and dependent on exports and imports. But seeking reliable and like-minded partners is also coming to the forefront so that in terms of the supply chain, countries are now looking for and seeking reliable and dependable export and import partners, from retail to strategic, and that the Norwegian Embassy in Australia is here to support Norwegian companies, by building bilateral relations that develop business relationships with their Australian counterparts. The Norwegian Embassy also expressed the pleasure for them in building these bilateral relations to support the economic growth, development and exchange between our two countries.

They are also very upbeat and foresee many opportunities and sectors that are coming to the forefront and are looking at how to expand interaction and engagement between both countries and their counterparts. The post Covid-19 focus is getting Norway back on its feet especially as Norway, like Australia, has seen a 5% contraction of its economy. The upside for both our nations is low public debt and strong economies. And on a very positive note, Norway and its markets are showing upbeat and positive signs. While the outlook looks bright, Norway emphasises the importance of and need for innovation and that Norway’s doors are open…and they will continue to open doors for Australian business.

Remote Working, Remote Teams…and Now the Rise and Evolution of Remote Leadership

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 03:49:41 GMT

What it takes to be a respected, inspirational and effective Leader, now more than ever, in this increasingly virtual business economy we work, communicate and transact in, is fast becoming a key focal point for companies of all types and sizes and geographical reach: local, regional and global. Are their certain personality types/traits, management styles and new ways of working that transcend and succeed in a virtual context, forum and meeting space? How is remote Leadership viewed and embraced internally by employees and managers and externally by customers and clients?

According to Southern Cross Coaching and Development, Leadership Coach, Simon Smith and our Corporate and Business members here are some of the takeaways from this dynamic and interactive discussion:

Simon drew our attention to focus on the concerns for companies going back to the workplace and to keep in mind that while many staff are looking forward to and excited about going back to their work place, there are however others who are not. What this means is to look at the different risk profiles, such as those who don’t want to go back due to childcare and/or fear of getting back on public transport. Being back in the office also raises more concerns around staff interactions, with younger colleagues less risk adverse while others preferring to keep a safe distance, which may result or lead to conflict with staff and complaints as they return, in addition to who is coming back and who is not.

While Zoom and similar online meeting platforms have provided an alternative solution for meetings, they nonetheless reveal some difficulties experienced in engaging with people both for staff and clients. As we return to the new normal, some staff will enjoy going out for meetings over a coffee with colleagues and clients while others will not. It is in these domains that leaders and managers will need to think about how to manage and set the ground rules. And address how some staff are going to feel detached from the ‘mothership’ as they continue to work remotely.

One significant point Simon raised for company heads was ‘trusting people’. As a leader, you have to trust that your team and staff can do the work and be productive. Setting agendas and checking-in on how they are doing is imperative, as well as building trust and making stronger the ‘what’ and the ‘why’. Outcomes and what to achieve should be made clear plus scheduling check-ins to discuss those outcomes. But this can only happen if you have an agenda set with every single person and that all staff are treated the same and equitably. This ensures there is no exclusion or bullying.

A planned strategic agenda with every individual staff/team member is key and essential as it allows and shows that everyone is treated the same so there is no exclusion or bully aspect. It also permits Managers and Company heads to have a Strategic Agenda ‘Check-In’ with staff, so they can start the week and then ‘Check-Out’ at the end of it. Other key aspects include observing the mental health of your team, such as if they are chatty or not. And if they are not, then check-in with them on a separate call.

Another remote leadership dimension is how to integrate this management and approach with hybrid teams: those at home and those who are in the office. The key here is ‘to ask, don’t tell’. While you can tell and inform your team what to achieve and the outcomes you want, remember that it is up to them to work it out. Make sure they are ‘solution-focused’ in order to be the most productive as possible. Simon’s example of ‘Software AG’ showed that by asking and not telling, productivity increased by up to 30%. And be ‘coaching-focused’: ask questions, what can we do to be successful next time and what does a successful solution look like. However, Simon did mention that ‘repair work’ can be difficult at a distance and other participants remarked that company culture, management and workflow can be challenged when you no longer have face-to-face meetings/interactions which can be intimidating for staff and even more so with key personnel and counterparts when they are several continents apart.

Contributions from those participating empathised with Simon’s observations and comments, echoing how they relate to remote leadership and management being challenging when they are not free or able to discuss face-to-face. And, that company culture also has an impact when it comes to employees and teams feeling integrated in the company, while others find it challenging not being able to be face-to-face. Collaborative face-to-face activities and how your staff are dealing and managing emotionally also come into the mix. Simon underlined the need to have a structure and a regular check-in schedule. Be clear as to what are your expectations and the deliverables and remember that check-ins are key.

Issues arise when people and staff do not know what they are doing which then leads to procrastination. Ensure you have structured calls and that those staff have time to check-in and get back to you as these regular structured check-ins are crucial/fundamental.

Participants also shared their experiences, observations and input, notably how their staff and teams missed structure and face-to-face team work, catch ups and bonding. Hygiene amongst staff and inefficiencies in the workplace have also improved now that they have to check-in when online. Another positive outcome is that some organisations may no longer need a sizeable office in the CBD.

Improvement and increase in constant communications with customers, especially in the wholesale and retail space, was another positive observation and outcome, as well as keeping the seller/buyer constantly updated and in real-time. Learning to treat your staff like customers and communicate regularly were also some of the other takeaways. Many cited seeing working at home to continue with catch-ups over lunch.

Nonetheless, the necessity of a remote, physical office is still important, especially for staff from a social and mental health perspective, as they do miss the office interaction. Moving from office to home, the focus has been clearly on the quality of the work and ensuring everyone is keeping to project guidelines and measuring product outcomes.

The key takeaways from this session that are paramount for successful Remote Leadership include:

Be clear on expectations, the outcomes you want, why clarification is required and make sure to check-in with your team. These are absolutely critical and crucial for success.
Goal-setting and making sure all your team knows the steps and that the journey itself is part of the outcome
Check-out online collaborative tools available that encourage and foster ‘all in it together’ attitudes and behaviour which can be powerful instruments for company heads as we forge ahead in this new norm

Make It Possible with Remote Employees…Facilitated Work Hub Shows You How

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 03:47:09 GMT

In 2020, workplaces are embracing remote work options and now more than ever remote working strategies are vital to bounce back and accelerate growth. However, according to a global study, one of the drawbacks of remote working is loneliness as it was the second most problem faced by remote workers after struggling to unplug from work. Managers on the other hand are still having difficulty trusting their employees to work productively when working remotely.

If not handled properly, remote working can easily sow seeds of mistrust within the teams, and do more harm than good.

For 13 years Facilitated Work Hub has been providing permanent full-time remote workers. They have been helping companies hire highly skilled and experienced software developers and other tech experts in Vietnam. However, they do not offer project based, part-time or ad-hoc works. They believe a long-term focus offers lasting business success and sustainability.

Facilitated Work Hub is the Employer of Record in Vietnam, handling administration, tax and compliance, in addition to talent acquisition, onboarding, integrating, managing and employee engagement, the remote software developers become an integral part of a company’s work environment.

Led by their highly experienced management team, whose role is to prevent risks associated with remote working, they create a stable and cohesive workplace and act as a fail safe. All facilitated through a hub concept. This improves productivity, cost efficiency and stability. As well as allowing you to have control without taking on risks or sacrificing on talent and business goals.

The Facilitated Work Hub is now open for business in Australia and located in Melbourne. So they are seeking experienced and skilled Business Developers (Sales) to join them in Melbourne and a Facilitation Manager for their hub in Ho Chi Minh City. Talk to their CEO Øystein Baeko for more information.

Norwegian Australian Chamber Participates in Recent EABC’s Worldwide Network Video Conference To Discuss COVID-19 Pandemic Impact

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 03:45:55 GMT

Recent participation by the Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce in the Forum “The Impact of COVID-19 for European Business in the Asia Pacific Region” hosted by the European Australian Business Council

DNV-GL PODCAST SERIES: COVID-19 + CLEAN ENERGY: POWERING OUR ECONOMIC RECOVERY (EP1)S

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 03:45:21 GMT

DNV GL is launching its latest four-part series, DNV GL Talks Energy podcast, focusing on the impact of COVID-19 on the energy transition. Hosted by Mathias Steck, Managing Director, DNV GL – Energy, each week the world’s leading energy experts will join in to explore how industry, business and society are responding to the global pandemic, and the role that policy, investment and technology is likely to play as the world seeks to recover.

Equinor donate USD 500,000 to Norwegian Refugee Council and the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund

Tue, 05 May 2020 03:44:01 GMT

Now, more than ever, safety and caring for people comes first. In Equinor, health and safety are always our top priority—but the magnitude of the corona crisis calls for a broader contribution. That’s why we’re announcing donations of USD 500,000 each to Norwegian Refugee Council and the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund in support of the World Health Organization powered by Swiss Philanthropy Foundation and UN Foundation.

A number of our employees are working from home offices at present, but certain tasks are more difficult than others to carry out there. So when you can't use a geology lab onsite at the office, what about bringing the geology lab home? ? Our proprietary "Rock'n Log" tool makes it possible for our geologists to study Johan Sverdrup subsurface core samples from the safety of their living rooms and kitchens. “How cool is that? This gives us enormous opportunities ?,” says Elisabeth Bratli, who uses the technology in her workday.

COVID-19 update from Norwegian Companies in Australia

Tue, 05 May 2020 03:43:09 GMT

An update on the current situation from a few Norwegian companies in Australia

May 2020

ABSTRACT

This report provides information about eight different companies. Ekornes, Viking Cruises, Nordic Bev, 50 Degrees North, Handelsbanken, Tieto, DNV Global and Q-Free are all members of Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce

(NACC). You can read about what the companies do and how they are doing now. Some of the companies have interesting resources, and ongoing campaigns we would like to share. Covid-19 has forced many businesses to make big changes. You can read about how NACC´s members are dealing with the current situation in this Covid-19 update.

Ekornes

Ekornes is Europe’s biggest furniture producer. The company is best known for its famous brand Stressless, which is sold in over 40 countries, and in several Australian furniture shops like David Jones and Easy Living. They think that a great idea can come from anywhere, and encourage their employees to be a part of a company that creates.

Ekornes is a company that cares for the environment. They are experts in reuse of materials, and always avoid using extra resources. Nothing goes to waste in their production process, and left overs from sofas and chairs are sold to other businesses who creates smaller products.

The business is currently applying to become a member of the Leather Working Group (LWG) to promote improvement in the leather manufacturing industry by creating alignment on environmental priorities (Ekornes, 2020)

They also have a summer intern program, which is a great opportunity for young people to become a part of a big brand. This is advertised on Ekornes Facebook page.

Covid-19 update:

The Stressless team are helping healthcare workers globally as a way of saying thankyou. The sewing department in Norway and America has turned their skills to producing reusable facemasks to be used in hospitals. As long as there is a demand, the team will continue to do what they can to help.
Working from home special offer, 25% off the luxury office collection.

Viking cruises

Viking Cruises is a cruise line, voted the world´s best. Since founded in 1997, they have expanded massively, and are introducing new cruises regularly. On their webpage you can even do a virtual tour of all their cruises.

In 2022 they are launching expedition journeys to arctic and Antarctica, as well as North America´s great lakes. The cruise line also recently introduced Viking Mississippi 2022-2023. Viking cruises continues to introduce new destinations, and is a growing company.

Viking Cruises recently partnered with TED, a non-profit organisation devoted to spreading bold new ideas and sparking conversation. Ted talks are now screened on board Viking Cruises.

Covid-19 update:

The business has temporarily suspended all cruise operations until May 1. 2020. Viking Cruises is offering full refunds for bookings or a 125% voucher for a future cruise.

Nordic Bev

Nordic Bev is a small Norwegian business making gins, aquavit, beers, ciders and other drinks. The business is most famous for its Harahorn gin, which was recently awarded number 5 spirit in the world by London Spirits Competition 2020. Nordic Bev´s Harahorn gin has been spotted in several bars and restaurants in Hong Kong, and it is a business with great growth potential.

The gin is the best selling premium gin in Norway, and the company´s vision is to start the fairy tail in the rest of the world, and open minds to Harahorn gin and other drinks.

The company has a sustainable way to harvest. Their secret and most important ingredient is called einebær and is a berry that grows high up in the Norwegian mountains. It takes 2 years to grow, and gives the spirits a powerful taste.

Covid-19 update: Operating as per usual with online sales.

50 degrees north

50 Degrees North is a company passionate about their own home – the Nordic region. They want people to have an authentic experience that creates life long memories. The company has offices in Norway, Canada and Australia. Lapland tour and a tour of the Norwegian fjords 2020 are the newest tours introduced in 2020.

The business is active on social media, and while people cannot travel, they want to spread positivity and the Norwegian Term “hygge”. This term is about creating cosy and peaceful environments, and the business is encouraging people to spread hygge in these uncertain times.

They want people to have something to look forward to, and just opened up for family Christmas holidays 2021 bookings.

Covid-19 update:

50 Degrees North is not planning travels at the moment, but will open for bookings again in September 2020.

Handelsbanken

Handelsbanken is the only Nordic bank with presence in Australia. The company has more than 12.000 employees, where 40% are employed outside Sweden. They are also proud to announce that at the moment 40% of all their managers are women. The bank wants to be a sustainable business, and focuses on strong, long lasting business relationships, low risk taking and cost awareness.

Looking at the summary for Q1 2020, the operating profit went down by 10%. This was expected because of Covid-19. What they also announced in the report is that their costumer satisfaction was shown to be an index of 72.6 compared to the average of 65.6.

Covid-19 update:

Handelsbanken recently invested SEK 220 million in Covid-19 response bond, and want to contribute to easing the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.
All services are available as usual.
Handelsbanken offers temporary financial support for individuals who are impacted by the coronavirus.

Q-Free

Q-Free is a global supplier of class-leading Tolling, Parking, Traffic Management and Connected ITS (C-ITS)/Connected Vehicle solutions. The company is working to maintain and improve the flow in an increasingly complex traffic environment

In the first quarter of 2020 Q-Free reported a 10% drop in revenues. This quarter was negatively impacted by delayed purchase orders deliveries in the Traffic Management segment. The company is 6% up from previous quarter.

Covid-19 update:

Q-Free has taken the necessary action across its different offices to ensure that colleagues, clients and the public in general are kept safe. Most colleagues are working form home in countries where this is required.
Business continues as usual while respecting the instructions outlined by authorities.

DNV Global

DNV GL is an independent expert in risk management and quality assurance. The company provides customers with facts and reliable insights so that critical decisions can be made with confidence. DNV GL´s purpose is to safeguard life, property and the environment.

The business focuses on being safer, smarter and greener, and signed the United Nation´s nine sustainable ocean principles earlier this year. By doing this DNV GL has committed to providing both customers with expertise on how to manage risks while safely exploring further, and setting the standard for future generations.

Covid-19 update:

Business continues.
DNV GL´s employees have limited their business travel to essential only since early March, and are continuing to support customers virtually wherever possible.
The business has increased focus on providing remote surveys and audits, online support and training, and continued communication with key contacts at DNV GL.

Tieto

Tieto creates digital advantage for businesses and society, and has a global team of 15 000 employees in almost 20 countries. The company foster an open source culture that promotes respect for every individual, openness, good teamwork, diversity and equal opportunities.

Tieto aims to minimise their environmental impact along their value chain. The company´s overall goal is to reduce the global CO2 emissions of their indirect energy consumption by 50% by 2020.

Covid-19 update:

Tieto has taken strict measures to mitigate the potential financial impact of Covid-19 pandemic to ensure health and safety of employees and ensure critical services to customers.
Current guidance, according to which Tieto expects its comparable full-year adjusted operating profit (EBIT) to increase from the previous year´s level, is withdrawn.

Resources/links

https://www.stressless.com/nb-no/var-historie/caring-for-the-earth

https://www.afr.com/life-and-luxury/ekornesimg-furniture-expands-market-with-more-affordable-still-as-excellent-brand-20150614-ghnlca

https://www.vikingcruises.com.au/press/press-releases/viking-temporarily-suspends-cruise-operations.html

https://www.facebook.com/VikingAUNZ/?brand_redir=122446663491

https://www.facebook.com/NordicBevAsia/

https://www.handelsbanken.com/en/sustainability

https://www.tietoevry.com/en/newsroom/all-news-and-releases/stock-exchange-releases/2020/03/tietoevry-withdraws-its-guidance-for-2020--uncertain-market-outlook-due-to-covid-19/

COVID-19 Drives Positive Outcomes for Stentofon

Tue, 05 May 2020 03:42:35 GMT

Stentofon, one of our Business Members, is experiencing some impressive and unprecedented positive effects from COVID-19: an incredible influx in inquiries for its Australian operation focused on Waste Sites Resource Recovery and sites with Track Gate, to name a few.

Here are some of the sentiments currently being expressed by Stentofon’s customers which they shared with us:

Clients don’t want people getting out of cars and talking to staff face-to-face so Stentofon solved that thanks to their Norwegian Noise Cancelling Intercoms allowing drivers and passengers to remain in the car with their engines still running
Since Intercom buttons are a place for COVID-19 transfer, Stentofon solved this customer issue by using its technology so that a Control Room can initiate a call to the driver, providing a hands-free reply
As clients did not want people passing things back and forth – Stentofon’s technology has enabled conversations to take place remotely, allowing appropriate dockets to be printed and issued allowing drivers and staff to carry on their work in a safe and hygienic manner

While Stentofon’s technology has existed for years, with its initial deployment in the Norwegian North Sea, it is uplifting to now see it helping Australian businesses and Australian families stay safe and keep working!

Covid-19: How SEARCHER SEISMIC Reaps Unexpected Benefits and Positive Outcomes

Tue, 05 May 2020 03:41:14 GMT

Our Business member, Perth based Searcher Seismic, a geoscience data and technology enabling company in the exploration, geology, petroleum and gas sectors – and its sister companies Finder Energy, Theia Energy (clean oil fuelling + Great Sandy Dessert Project) and Discover Geoscience (Petroleum Subsurface Consultancy) – like many organisations, have now moved its workforce on to a reduced working schedule and remotely for the first time. This has largely been in response to their clients: major oil companies slashing and reducing their budgets left right and centre.

But as Searcher Seismic’s Founder and Managing Director, Odd Arne Larsen, has observed together with his co-owner Jan Ostby, not only are they learning a lot from the impact COVID‐19 is having on their business so far but also on how their staff and oil companies are rapidly adapting to a new way of working remotely which has resulted in some interesting outcomes for them all.

Some of our senior geo’s believed you had to always go to the office to put in a day of honest work. However after a short period of time they find themselves enjoying the flexibility working from home can give. Staff with small children, especially with schools being closed during the main COVID-19 outbreak, are finding working from home more challenging. However, we are seeing some of these staff now coming back and telling us that with schools opening they would like to be working more from home in the future when things return to normal.

Odd and Jan have also been surprised how fast the oil companies and contractors responded to the changed work environment. Pre the COVID-19 pandemic, you had to meet face-to-face to discuss or negotiate your business. This was the case especially if several technical advisors or managers were involved in the process. The COVID-19 measures have demonstrated that productive meetings can be held remotely via video conferencing which is more time efficient and less costly. However, it is noted that there will always be the need to meet in person, albeit maybe not that often anymore?

Before the pandemic there was an expectation that if you cared about your business relationships you had to travel, even long distances, to meet with clients and project partners. The COVID-19 measures have reset these expectations and highlighted the effectiveness of video conferencing which will provide efficiency and effective benefits in the future.

This pandemic has forced business to deal with technical challenges associated with video conferencing facilities and be more familiar with the various technologies to be able to participate across the different video conferences applications.

For those members and companies who are targeting and working in the sectors that Odd and Jan’s companies specialises in, check out their interest publications and resources which provide sector insights and updates on how its technology and technical know‐how are leading the way to unlocking further commercial potential and outcomes. The Searcher Seismic, Finder Energy or Discover Geoscience websites being the central communications hub allowing the oil companies to browse extensive data libraries, evaluating farming opportunities or looking for subsurface consultancy support. You will also find their technical papers plus being informed on their latest and most recent news and developments. And if you make contact with Odd or Jan you may even get some tips on working remotely!

COVID-19 and Networking message from Sophia Demetriades

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 09:00:00 GMT

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Nordic Golf Day Slide Show 2020

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 06:00:00 GMT

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Corporate Member – Polygot Group – Shares HR COVID-19 Updates

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 05:33:17 GMT

Our Corporate member, POLYGOT GROUP, who specialise in HR Resources, has stepped forward to share with us some of their HR COVID-19 Updates and FAQs, including some very useful links:

Letter from Polygot Group’s CEO: What We Are Doing In The Face of COVID-19
HR FAQ & Updates
ANZ Governments Economic Support
Employer Responsibilities

If you would like further information or assistance, please contact Laura Pigot at Polygot Group.

Many thanks to the Polygot Group Team.

Good Design Awards Australia honors Cinderella Incineration Toilets in two categories

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 05:32:25 GMT

By: Trude B-J Margel

On July 11th, Cinderella received the coveted Good Design Award in two categories at the 2019 Good Design Awards Ceremony held at The Star in Sydney, Australia. On hand to receive the Good Design Awards in front of a festive clad audience of over 1000 were Cinderella Eco Group’s Australian team. The Good Design Awards jury presented Cinderella Incineration Toilets with awards in Best Engineering Design and Best Product Design, Home and Building.

Awarding Good Design since 1958
Good Design Australia is an international design promotion organization responsible for managing Australia’s annual Good Design Awards and other signature design events. Dating back to 1958, the organization is “committed to promoting the importance of design to business, industry, government and the general public and the critical role it plays in creating a better, safer and more prosperous world as the key to increasing social well-being and prosperity through empathy and insight, “ according to the Good Design Awards background information.

“Congratulations to Cinderella Eco Group”, writes General Manager Rachel Wye of Good Design Australia upon announcing the awards, “this is a significant achievement and one you should be very proud of considering the very high caliber of submissions received this year across the 10 main design disciplines and 28 sub-categories.”

Winning Good Design Awards in two categories, Best Engineering Design and Best Product Design, Home and Building, is an honor that places Cinderella Eco Group among the leading providers of sustainably designed products and services on the Australian market, among key drivers of innovation, economic growth, export and productivity and an essential link between creativity, innovation and commercial success.

“We are absolutely thrilled about winning this award among so many wonderful contenders,” says Gunhild Sjøvik, Group CEO of Cinderella Eco Group in Norway. “To be recognized in this way, means a great deal to us in our work to provide alternative sanitation to Australia. We launched on the Australian market in 2018 and this is a wonderful lift for the awareness of our products. We have a great team in place in Australia who have already made an impression on the public and our newest consumers, looking for sanitary solutions that provide comfort and sustainability without the use of water or harmful chemicals.”

Made for Australia
“Cinderella’s incineration technology represents an innovative, waterless waste-handling process that has met global attention from areas of the world totally lacking in sewage systems and where water is a threatened resource, to the leisure home owner looking to find comfortable, hygienic solutions for isolated areas close to nature without leaving any ecological footprint,” explains Anette and Darren Helleren, Cinderella’s dealer at Scandinavian Eco Solution Pty Ltd., in Victoria. ”The Cinderella Incineration Toilet is ideal for the Australian market and we’re very excited that they have won this prestigious award.”

“We are presenting the Cinderella Incineration Toilet in many arenas,” Mr Trent Bichel of AKT Mobile Systems, Cinderella’s dealer in Queensland confirms “There is a large potential for use in the site welfare industry where hundreds of buildings are being built in areas without sewage and where this is currently being transported by road. “

“The Cinderella Incineration Toilet is experiencing a wonderful reception in the Australian market,” Mr. Peter G. Hocking, general manager at the head office of Cinderella Eco Australia Pty Ltd in Sydney agrees, “We look forward to sharing the knowledge and expertise from Cinderella’s 20 years of experience in the Nordic region, Europe and Canada in delighting Australian consumers and making a significant difference to people’s lives. The fact that Cinderella Incineration Toilets is honored with the Good Design Awards in not one, but two categories, confirms the value and potential for the Australian market.”

Full article from:https://www.cinderellaeco.com/au/articles/good-design-awards-australia-honors-cinderella-incineration-toilets-in-two-categories/

Why You Should Join a Chamber of Commerce

Wed, 15 May 2019 05:31:38 GMT

“How’s business?” the old greeting goes. But these days, one might do better to ask: “Where’s business?”

Thanks to advances in technology, we now operate in a global marketplace where Australia is but one small, albeit magnificent, stall. All commerce has become, whether directly or indirectly, international commerce.

It can be a little overwhelming.

Fortunately, where there is commerce there are, more often than not, chambers of commerce, making it easier to negotiate the immense opportunities, and not a few risks, in this big marketplace of ours.

What is a Chamber of Commerce?

In a nutshell, a chamber of commerce is a member organisation that organises and promotes the common interests of a business community.

But what exactly does a chamber of commerce do?

And why should you join one – that is, what’s in it for you?

We decided to interview a number of chambers to get down into the nitty gritty of why you, your business and your staff, can benefit from joining a chamber of commerce.

What do Chambers of Commerce do?

A common misconception is that chambers of commerce are merely organisations that exist solely to promote business.

Yes, business is a cornerstone of any chamber, but the reality is more complex.

Chambers of Commerce work across various sectors: trade, industry, advocacy, as well as national and international mobility.

While actively promoting members, chambers also endorse their local and broader communities. By facilitating relationships, chambers of commerce ensure that businesses are able to collaborate in creating opportunities for themselves, their partners, and their clients.

There is no single model followed by chambers of commerce, and their mandates might be State, National or International. They may also be private, compulsory, or community based. More on this below.

Geographical Chambers

State, National, and International Chambers are defined largely by their physical location and reach. For example, a State based chamber, like the NSW Business Chamber, advocates for business owners specifically within NSW.

Likewise, International Chambers will usually promote relationships and business opportunities between their specific country and Australia. International Chambers may choose to focus on the mobility of business, including the facilitation of resources across international borders. For example, a chamber may assist with the deployment of staff and resources, advising on import restrictions and visa requirements.

Private vs Compulsory Chambers

This article largely focuses on the more common, private model. In private chambers, there is no obligation to join. Companies pay a membership fee in exchange for opportunities such as networking and industry connections.

Conversely, a compulsory chamber is one where membership is obligatory. For example, in Germany, the IHK-Gesetz, or the Chamber Act, governs when ‘enterprises are members’ and are required to be statutory bodies. Two examples of this include the Chambers of Commerce and Industry (IHK, Industrie und Handelskammer) and the Chambers of Skilled Crafts (HwK, Handwerkskammer).

So, What’s in it for You?

The benefits of joining chambers of commerce can be immeasurable. However, no two chambers of commerce are identical, with benefits varying depending on the chamber and the business involved.

Barry Corr, CEO of the Irish Australian Chamber of Commerce explains that even within a single chamber, benefits will depend on the individual member and what they’re trying to achieve.

Notwithstanding the above, in our discussions with different chambers of commerce a few benefits came up again and again:

Networking
Advocacy
Exposure
Information
Mobility

Networking

This is a given. One of the major benefits of joining a Chamber of Commerce is the opportunity to cultivate business though networking, as well as to create lasting relationships with like-minded people.

For example, the Australian Malaysia Business Council Queensland’s (AMBCQ) “primary focus is … on providing opportunities for [members] to engage with others at all different levels and across sectors.” Shona Leppanen-Gibson, president of AMBCQ, recognised the importance of networking, and placed great emphasis on “finding positive connections that lead to business and career opportunities”.

By attending events, and engaging with people in the wider business community, chamber of commerce members are able to make strategic connections. And even where they don’t walk away from a contract, it can be a great way to learn from industry leaders.

For example, the Australian and New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ANZCCJ), promotes networking opportunities for “meeting government leaders and specialists”, in particular their Youth Empowerment Programme (YEP), “aims to provide young professionals and students in Tokyo insight into various industries in Japan and to learn more about how to pursue a successful career”. Judith Hanna, ANZCCJ Executive Director, explained that “YEP networking events offer a fantastic opportunity to hear from inspiring young professionals who have excelled in their careers, speak with recruiters and business leaders in Tokyo looking to acquire young talent and to mix and mingle with likeminded young people”.

Amie O’Mahony, Government Relations Manager of the American Chamber in Australia (AmCham), emphasised the importance of events, stating that networking is one of the five major pillars of her organisation. AmCham achieves this through their event program, where members are invited to functions for key stakeholders. Within this program, members have access to “preferred seating” so that they can connect with specific individuals.

However, don’t be fooled into thinking this is as easy as exchanging business cards and calling it a day. Shona Leppanen-Gibson highlighted that it is important to remember that networking is not always a “quick win”, and that “it is about the level of involvement and commitment an individual or an organisation would like to have with the business council”. Members that “put in the time and effort and… are consistent… will reap the rewards”.

This sentiment was echoed throughout many of our interviews. Martin Scarpino, CEO of SwissCham Australia, put it quite succinctly by comparing it to a gym membership:

“It’s up to you. It’s like when you go to Fitness First. You sign up and you never go. Or you sign up and you become an active member.”

Advocacy

Having access to, and being represented through, advocacy is another benefit of joining a chamber of commerce. Many chambers and business councils have their foot in the door when it comes to discussing policy. By joining an organisation that reflects your interests, your needs will be asserted when it comes to any form of lobbying.

Unsurprisingly, advocacy varies within each organisation, as specific goals are promoted to mirror philosophy and interests.

For example, the Small Business Association of Australia (SBAA) advocates for small business by promoting policy change. One of SBAA’s major projects is its work on the Small Business Charter of Australia, where it aims to promote signature reforms and “create good policy for small business owners”. Anne Nalder, CEO and Founder of SBAA, emphasised the importance of strong advocacy. Anne suggested that we should be looking at “different initiatives” rather than continuing with “…Band-Aid solutions. When formulating policy, we have to ask, ‘how will this affect small business?’”

Similarly, Nigel McBride, former Business SA CEO, spoke about their advocacy for South Australian business. Tax reforms, ice in the workplace, and climate change, are just some of the topics championed by the Chamber through media campaigns.

Jacinta Reddan, CEO of AustCham Hong Kong, explained that her chamber has been ‘lobbying to recognise the value of [corporate experience] and to look to how we can create a better pathway for members to go back into corporate Australia’. She encourages members to ‘have a say, be involved, and have an influence in key business decisions that will affect you’.

Exposure

Being active in a chamber of commerce or business council can also raise the profile of an individual business.

For example, members of AmCham are able to leverage the activities of the Chamber to increase their visibility. Aime O’Mahony explained that simply by becoming an active member, companies are able to “have their brand associated with some of the biggest names or issues”. Businesses can do this through sponsorship or representation on specific committees.

Similarly, Yachien Huang, Executive Director of the Australia New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Taipei (ANZCham Taipei) noted that ‘there are plenty of options for members to increase their visibility in the local market through exposures on our website, social media, e-newsletters and event sponsorship’.

Information & Advice

Chambers of commerce are treasure troves of valuable information and advice for companies and individuals. Usually published online, news updates and publications are given to members as well as the general public.

Some organisations go a step further, creating valuable content that is exclusive to members.

For example, Australian Business Council Dubai (ABCD) is preeminent in educating and disseminating information to its members. Not only does the Business Council’s key players read and share local Australian press, but the Council has created a members’ forum and community hub. Justine Cullen, Manager of ABCD, explained that this hub provides a variety of information. Topics such as obtaining a license and ‘life in Dubai’ make the Council the go-to resource on doing business in Dubai.

Similarly, AmCham provides cutting edge information and resources to members though events, trade missions, meetings with key decision makers, online publications, investment reports, and a trade and investment guide.

Sophia Demetriades Toftdahl, President of the Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce (NACC) favours using events to help businesses “stay abreast of what is happening in the community’.

Mobility

Some chambers of commerce will assist or advise in relation to deployment of staff offshore: tax, visa and immigration and so on. Others, for example most International Business Councils, focus on broader aspects of commerce, rather than the nuts and bolts of personnel and their movements.

Nigel McBride, former Business SA CEO, explained for example that his chamber is able to assist with export stamping.

The Australia Zimbabwe Business Council (AZBC) uses an internal legal department. Evans Mukonza, President AZBC, explains that this is particularly useful for assisting with staff mobility. Evans explains that the agency ‘provides employment to young people’ by helping them find a job and ‘get their resume up to scratch’. Evans notes that his organisation is able to match employees with employers, highlighting that they can also handle the visa requirements.

Which Chamber Will You Join?

Chambers of commerce are a great source of support for your growing business. Whether you want to build connections, increase exposure, or promote your core values, chambers can offer unique and worthwhile opportunities for you and your business.

So, what are you waiting for? Go on and join!

Read the full article here.

European Australia Collaboration in the Pacific Forum

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 04:27:17 GMT

On Wednesday, 6 March 2019, members of the Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce attended a Forum with Commissioner Neven Mimica, European Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development, and Senator the Hon Anne Ruston, Federal Assistant Minister for International Development and the Pacific.

Following the third Development Dialogue between Australia and the EU held in Brussels last February, the Forum offered an opportunity for the European Union and Australia to confirm their alignment and commitment to the Pacific region, and in particular, priorities for investing in sustainable infrastructure.

Commissioner Mimica spoke about the EU’s development policy, as the world’s largest aid donor, and highlighted efforts to increase funding for the EU’s Electrification Financing Initiative, whose objective is to de-risk private investments aimed at improving access to energy, principally for populations living in rural areas. He also announced the EU’s External Investment Plan aiming to leverage €1 trillion of investments in EU partner countries, including the Pacific.

Assistant Minister Ruston underlined the importance of the Australian Government’s Pacific Step-Up encompassing $2 billion for the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific, along with a $1 billion increase in callable capital to the Export Finance and Insurance Corporation. She welcomed the EU’s increased support and continued focus on the Pacific region, and expressed Australia’s desire to work more closely with its European partners and the EU as a whole.

Both Commissioner Mimica and Assistant Minister Ruston stressed how Australia and the EU share a strong commitment to the UN 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals, and commented on the need for renewed cooperation between Australia and the EU. Historic ties of friendship and substantial support to the region should lead the EU and Australia to further align development efforts and work together in better allocating resources.

The panel discussion that followed the keynote speeches addressed the economic outlook of the region opening up opportunities for business. Moderator Dr Sarah Cook (UNSW Institute for Global Development) and panellists Zarak Khan (Fiji Consul General and Trade Commissioner), Adam Bruun (European Investment Bank) and Jean Ballandras (CEO Asia-Pacific, Akuo Energy), discussed the significance of enhanced EU-Australia collaboration in and with Pacific island countries.

The panellists’ comments and interactive session with participants profiled the fast-changing business environment and landscape in the Pacific, underlining the role of the private sector in the region and how technological innovation is driving the emergence of tailor-made, less costly and more adaptable solutions to existing challenges. Panellists also emphasised the role of value-driven stakeholders, committed to making a difference on issues such as climate change mitigation.

See the photo gallery from the event below.

NACC Video

Wed, 16 Jan 2019 04:07:42 GMT

Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce Member Company promotion video 2018

Meet Norwegian businesses in Australia in this NACC promotion and reference video featuring Norway's Ambassador to Australia, Paul Gulleik Larsen and NACC Members Ekornes, Flokk, DNV Global, Interock, Q-Free, Dream Internship, KPMG, Handelsbanken, Imatis, Wilh Wilhelmsen Investments WWI, Norske Skog, Polyglot Group, Yara, DOF Subsea, Innovation Norway, Fuelbox, EABC, Rollerski Australia, Nammo, Schweizer Kobras, Stentofon, Norsk, KingHill, Tiqri, Kongsberg, Nordic Bev, 50 Degrees North, Cooper Partners, Norwegian Embassy in Canberra.

Norway Asia Business Review 2018-3

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 04:06:02 GMT

Norway Asia Business Review down under

Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce is excited to connect with Norway Asia Business Review. NABR offers advertising opportunities for companies throughout South and Southeast Asia.

Norway Asia Business Review 2018 #3 Special Review is on energy. Read also the NACC story in interview with Norwegian Australian Chamber president Sophia Demetriades, pg 20; about the Norwegian technology company Wavetrain down under in interview with Mark Foster, pg 22; and more.

Norway-Asia-Business-Review-2018-03 (read online and download pdf)

Read NABR 2018 03 online at issuu

Norway Asia Business Review interview with Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce president Sophia Demetriades (image link)

Norwegian Christmas 2018

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 04:02:47 GMT

Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce celebrates Christmas, Sydney 11 December 2018. Image © Torunn Momtazi

Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce celebrates Christmas, Sydney 11 December 2018. Image © Torunn Momtazi
Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce celebrates Christmas, Sydney 11 December 2018. Image © Torunn Momtazi
Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce celebrates Christmas, Sydney 11 December 2018. Image © Torunn Momtazi
Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce celebrates Christmas, Sydney 11 December 2018. Image © Torunn Momtazi
Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce celebrates Christmas, Sydney 11 December 2018. Image © Torunn Momtazi
Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce celebrates Christmas, Sydney 11 December 2018. Image © Torunn Momtazi

Ambassador Mary Ellen Miller round-table meetings

Tue, 04 Dec 2018 04:01:20 GMT

The Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for hosting several meetings with Mary Ellen Miller, the Australian Ambassador to Denmark, Norway and Iceland.

An event in Perth was a mid-term posting consultation to for the purposes of meeting representatives of Norwegian and Australian companies, hear about their business experiences in Norway and Australia and to learn about their future plans.

A meeting in Sydney with the Chamber directors discussed ways to increase collaboration between the Embassy and the chambers.

The Norwegian and Australian companies’ areas of discussion were very broad. We recognised that there is a strong link between Western Australia and Norway due to mutual interest in the Oil and Gas industry with companies such as Equinor and Woodside communicating over many different areas.

Another area of mutual interest was working together to identify areas of technology developed in Australia that would be a benefit to Norway. For example, with the current interest in renewable energy, Australia’s experience in Solar Thermal Energy was identified as a potentially useful technology in Norway.

The Ambassador advised that there are now more Norwegian students in Australia than in the United States. She encouraged the Chamber to see this as an area that should be fostered to build “Soft Diplomacy”. She pointed out that this assists to generate links between cultures, which is highly effective for nations like Australia and Norway.

Ambassador Miller also requested that the Chamber keep her informed of the success stories for companies conducting business in or businesses moving to Australia or Norway so she can promote their success and further that we keep her informed of any challenges that companies encounter in the process of operating between the two countries.

We wish the Ambassador well for the remainder of her posting and look forward to continued dialogue with her for the remainder of her term.

National security dinner with Hon Peter Dutton MP

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 04:25:41 GMT

Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce President Sophia Demetriades had the pleasure of attending an exclusive dinner with the Hon Peter Dutton MP in Sydney on November 19th., 2018.

Ms Demetriades attended as guest of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in conjunction with Stratium Global.

Presentations were held by The Hon Peter Dutton MP, Minister for Home Affairs and Federal Member for Dickson and special guest from the United States, Louis J. Freeh, former Director of the FBI, former Deputy US Attorney, former US District Court Judge and international investigator.

The Minister addressed protecting Australia in these uncertain times given his portfolio responsibilities as Minister for Home Affairs. Mr Freeh shared his expertise and thoughts on other important global security matters.

Joining the Minister and Mr Freeh after their presentations were Karen Webb APM, Assistant Commissioner, NSW Police Force and facilitating the panel discussion was Nick Kaldas APM MAICD, Managing Director of Stratium Global and former Deputy Commissioner, NSW Police Force.

Hon Peter Dutton MP and Norwegian Chamber President Sophia Demetriades at the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Dinner event Protecting Australia in Uncertain times and other security matters. Sydney 19 November 2018

Building the Foundation Skills with Hon Tanya Plibersek MP

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 04:24:22 GMT

The Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce President Sophia Demetriades had the pleasure of attending an exclusive networking lunch with the Hon Tanya Plibersek MP in Sydney on November 15th, 2018.

Ms Demetriades attended as guest of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for a presentation on Building the Foundation Skills as presented by Hon Tanya Plibersek MP, Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Shadow Minister for Education and Training and Shadow Minister for Women.

With a keen eye on the skills needed for the future, there are none more important than foundation literacy and numeracy skills, including digital literacy, as a basis for lifelong learning and work. Evidence shows a drop in standards against our international competitors, particularly amongst high school students, and employers continue to express concern about the literacy and numeracy standards of young job seekers. Are we doing enough?

After her address, Ms Plibersek participated in a Q&A panel discussion with Suresh Manickam, CEO of the National Electrical and Communications Association, David Quilty, Executive Director of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and Robert Randall, CEO of the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority. The panel was facilitated by Jenny Lambert, Director Employment, Education & Training, of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The Hon Tanya Plibersek MP and Sophia Demetriades, Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce President.

Visa update at NACC

Wed, 07 Nov 2018 04:22:57 GMT

Thank you to event sponsor Tieto Norway and Justin Gibbs of Fragomen for a very informative overview of the Australian Visa situation following recent changes including the abolition of the 457 visa and introduction of the Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) visa.

The system has become much more complex and the changes introduced to ensure that access to skilled work visas is restricted to occupations in genuine short supply and follows the Government’s agenda to put Australians first.

There are two main streams for the TSS visa, a short-term stream which allows for two years in Australia with one extension and a long-term stream that allow for a four-year term in Australia with multiple extensions.

The criteria for a TSS visa now require mandatory Labour Market Testing (LMT) demonstrating that there is no suitably qualified Australian available for the role. This advertising is governed by strict and technical rules on where the advertisement must be displayed, and for how long. Employers were strongly encouraged to seek advice early to ensure applications met criteria. Acceptable platforms for advertising now include job ads posted on LinkedIn but generally classifieds or social media are not acceptable.

Similar to the 457 visa, salary and terms and conditions of employment must be no less favourable than what an equivalent Australian would receive.

Other significant changes include the split of the occupation lists – now the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) and the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), the introduction of the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy, revised English language requirements, introduction of mandatory policy clearances and minimum period of work experience.

The Department is very keen for companies to become Accredited Sponsors to help fast track low risk applications allowing the visa process to be one to two weeks as opposed to three to four months. For all approved sponsors, there are a number of important obligations and responsibilities and it is very important that companies ensure strict compliance. The Department is increasing its compliance and audit activities and there are also new powers on their way including ATO data matching and ‘Naming and Shaming’ of companies that do not comply.

There are in fact still many different visa categories, 99 to be precise, so navigating the correct category is important to ensure compliance and help facilitate business needs. For example, there was discussion about the different between ‘business visitor activity’ and ‘work’. The recommendation was to seek advice before proceeding as the consequences of getting it wrong can lead to serious consequences and be very costly.

Miles Ponsonby

NACC Event Perth 7 Nov 2018

Imatis successfully win new contract in Australia

Mon, 15 Oct 2018 03:59:47 GMT

Imatis has signed a new significant contract with a major Australian Private Healthcare Provider. The contract contains the Imatis Fundamentum lightweight ICT platform and modern, mobile Apps for Clinical Logistics, Task Management, Emergency Applications, Mobility, Patient User Interfaces, as well as integration to the existing heavyweight HIS systems. With the addition of these two more hospitals in Q2 of 2019 and the opening of the new Northern Beaches hospital at the end of October, Imatis will have its software in place at 15 Hospitals in Australia, including the brand-new Royal Adelaide Hospital.

Contact

Imatis CEO Morten Andresen
Morten.andresen@imatis.com
+47 9089 1560

NACC Events invitations

Tue, 09 Oct 2018 03:59:17 GMT

Check out NACC's latest event invitation!

NACC President Sophia Demetriades invites you to join us as we welcome the new Norwegian Ambassador to Australia, Paul Gulleik Larsen at NACC's Boardroom Breakfast #8 at KPMG on October 18th in Sydney.

In Perth, we will review how Australia's immigration policy change is impacting the visa process on November 7th.

Save the date for NACC's Christmas party at Radisson Blu - a true Norwegian Christmas treat, in Sydney December 5th.

See our latest event event invitation here

Thank you to Cooper Partners!

Tue, 07 Aug 2018 04:58:50 GMT

Thank you to Cooper Partners for its generous event sponsorship on NACC's Innovation Clusters talk in Perth 22 May.

Richard Rickett presented on innovation clusters and their applicability across all types of Industry. Richard Rickett is the Cluster Manager from the Subsea Innovation Cluster, the first Oil and Gas Cluster in Australia. Richard explained how Clusters can form and the diverse complexity of the ones that exist. The Subsea Innovation Cluster is quite complex as it involves multiple stakeholders that include Service Companies, Academic Institutes, Legal Companies, Oil and Gas operators and several more, but other clusters may involve only a few stakeholders showing that the concept is scalable from the small to the large.

Richard was assisted by Tore Moe of Norwegian Energy Partners during the Question and Answer session, and judging by the volume of questions the concept has sparked a lot of interest across many different industries.

Informal networking followed the presentation, and this proved to be just as popular as the talk. Again our thanks to Cooper Partners for sponsoring the event and our members and friends for attending.

NACC Innovation Cluster talk, Perth 22 May 2018

MARKET RESEARCH Internship with ORKLA – 2018

Mon, 02 Jul 2018 04:58:06 GMT

MARKET RESEARCH INTERNSHIP - ORKLA

NACC Member ORKLA is offering a fantastic opportunity to join their team as a MARKET RESEARCH intern from AUGUST 2018.

Please read the attached Scope and send your resume and brief cover letter to contact@norwegianchamber.com.au BY JULY 6 at 5pm.

In your email application, please write the following in the subject field: ORKLA INTERNSHIP APPLICATION - YOUR FULL NAME.

Subject to individual agreement, the successful candidate will be offered:

a) A weekly “allowance”

b) A compensation for “out of pocket” expenses subject to prior approval

c) A “completion bonus” upon approved work after internship is ended

PLEASE DOWNLOAD THE POSITION DESCRIPTION AND SCOPE

WE ARE HIRING!

Mon, 19 Mar 2018 03:57:14 GMT

The Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce is currently looking for an Operations Manager/Relationship Manager/CEO.

POSITION SUMMARY:

This role supports the board of the NACC in delivering on its objectives, including:

Creating networking opportunities for members and their communities
Promoting, encouraging and facilitating trade, commerce and investment
Creating awareness of ties between Australia and Norway

The main focus is on (1) marketing and communications, administration and event management; and (2) member engagement, management, retention and acquisition.

SKILLS:

Customer relationship building
Accounting and finance understanding (to pay invoices and report monthly account status)
Customer service
Confidence & professional presentation
Proactive & assertive nature
Attention to detail
Must be tech savvy and able to use Mac or Microsoft Suits as well as learn Mailchimp, Stripe, WordPress, Eventbrite, and social media
Norwegian language preferred but not required

COMPETENCIES AND EXPERIENCE:

Degree in Marketing, Communications or Business Administration preferred
At least 2 years previous work experience (in any field)
At least 1 year administration experience
Board management experience or similar preferred
Excellent English written and oral
Customer Service Experience

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Design and distribute the monthly newsletter from MailChimp

Get info from the board
Set up events on the website
Check Contact email
Test that links and everything work before sending

Current Member Management

Set up 2 phone meeting for Board Members in PipeDrive each month
Call at least 5 members per month and update info in our CRM PipeDrive
Talk to members about whether they know other prospect members
Send membership renewal and invoice
Do whatever is required to retain members

Prospect Member Management

Contact prospect members by phone and email regularly
Meet with potential members regularly and tell them about NACC
Sign up new members

New Member Management

Add member profiles to website
Send welcome email to new members when they pay and the contact email receives a notification
Send welcome letter and pin
Make welcome phone call with details below (tell President)
Add member to MailChimp newsletter list
Invite member to social media accounts
Update contact details
Get member to post our logo on their website

Finance Management

Update accounts
Pay invoices
Send invoices
Collect invoices
Update the numbers in the minutes sheet
Monthly financial statements

Event Management

Organise NACC events
Find sponsors for events
Attend events, prepare for events (see events run sheet)
Add events to website
Add events to Eventbrite if applicable
Create and send event invitations from MailChimp
Post events to social media
Call and email members directly to check if they are attending events
Part take in organising & promoting: European cruise in Nov, informal Christmas drinks in Dec, Scandinavian Film Festival in Jun, and promote

Euromix x 2-4.

Marketing Management

Keep update on member social media accounts and share in social media
Manage social media in collaboration with interns & President (weekly posts)
Share news in social media

General Administration

Attend Board meetings and take minutes, 1st Monday of the month, 4:30-6pm
Distribute minutes, agenda, and action items to the board, monthly
Weekly 15 minute phone catch up with the President
Update Database and CRM
Keep the Google Drive tidy, clear, orderly

REMUNERATION

Depends on experience and responsibilities
Salary will be between $20-30 per hour with 20 hours work per week minimum + board meeting attendance (Approx. $1600-$2400 /month)
Commission on membership sales available if of interest

HOW TO APPLY:

Send an email with your resume to contact@norwegianchamber.com.au, and add your name in the subject field like this: JOB APPLICATION: MAX SKAUGEN.
Only successful candidates will be called in for an interview.

VIKING CRUISES` VIKING SUN HEADS TO SYDNEY FOR THE FIRST TIME IN FEB 2018

Mon, 08 Jan 2018 03:56:24 GMT

VIKING CRUISES SIX MONTH COUNTDOWN TO SYDNEY ARRIVAL

Viking Sun arrives in February 2018 sailing the company’s first-ever World Cruise

10 August 2017 – Viking Cruises’ newest ocean ship, Viking Sun, heads to Sydney for the first time in February 2018, marking the brand’s debut in Australian waters.

The sold out Viking World Cruise from Miami to London will visit Sydney on 10 and 11 February, as part of the 141 day cruise covering five continents, 35 countries and 66 ports. The cruise will visit seven ports across Australia including Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Whitsunday Islands, Cairns, Thursday Island and Darwin before heading to Asia.

“The Opera House and the Harbour Bridge meant the decision to include the iconic harbour city of Sydney on the World Cruise itinerary was unquestionable. It is great to be able to share such a beautiful part of the world with Viking guests,” said Michelle Black, Managing Director Viking Cruises Australia and New Zealand. “Our itineraries are created with fewer sea days and more time in port, than any other cruise line and our selection of curated shore excursions are designed to showcase the best of each port we visit.”

The long-awaited arrival of Viking Cruises in Australia, will see guests admire the iconic Sydney Opera House, visit the historical Rocks district and explore the world-famous Bondi Beach. Plus, optional excursions will see guests explore Sydney’s Inner West, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cockatoo Island or head further afield to the Hunter Valley and Blue Mountains.

Viking will also begin homeporting out of Australia and New Zealand in December 2018 on a brand-new itinerary that will see Viking Spirit, the fifth ship to join the fleet in July 2018, spend three months of the year cruising between Sydney and Auckland. The 15-day Australia and New Zealand cruise will cover nine ports of call including Melbourne and Hobart before crossing the Tasman and stopping at six ports in New Zealand.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2017, Viking Cruises is the leader in river cruising, operating a fleet of 66 vessels that offer destination-focused itineraries. In 2015, the cruise line launched its first ocean ship, Viking Star. By 2022 the company will operate eight 930-guest ocean cruise ships and will be the world’s largest small ship ocean cruise line.

For additional information, contact Viking Cruises at 138 747 or visit vikingcruises.com.au/oceans. To join the Viking Cruises community online, visit facebook.com/vikingcruisesAUNZ.

-Ends-

Notes to Editors:

Viking World Cruise Australian Itinerary

8 February 2018 Melbourne (Day 55)

10 February 2018 Sydney (Day 57)

11 February 2018 Sydney (Day 58)

13 February 2018 Brisbane (Day 60)

15 February 2018 Whitsunday Islands – Cid Harbor (Day 62)

16 February 2018 Cairns (Day 63)

17 February 2018 Scenic Cruising: Great Barrier Reef (Day 64)

18 February 2018 Thursday Island (Day 65)

21 February 2018 Darwin (Day 68)

How to network your way to success

Sat, 18 Nov 2017 03:55:44 GMT

By: Sophia Demetriades

We’ve all heard it before; ‘it’s not what you know, but who you know’ or ‘it’s not who you know, its how you manage those you know’. No matter the quote, the message is clear; success is more about the actions you take to achieve it. If it is true that we are the sum of the people around us, we need to engage with people who in some way will help us achieve what we want. You could say that the future of your business is born through your networks!

Unfortunately, many of us are not efficient networkers. Excusitis claims reasons such as: “I‘m too shy”, “it hasn’t worked in the past”, “I don’t have time” etc etc. But can you really afford not to network when its the most likely way for you to win work?

When it comes to networking, quality definitely means more than quantity. You need to spend time building genuine relationships. In business, there is no point knowing hundreds of people if none of them mean anything to you. Referrals are the most robust strategy in job hunting. In short, a referral means that someone who knows you endorses you to someone else in their network and vice versa. No job application needed.

Mark Foster from WaveTrain has had great success meeting people through the Norwegian Chamber. In 2015 Mark attended the annual Cruise for Europeans, a networking cruise on Sydney harbour for all the European Chamber of Commerce. Here. Mark was introduced to members of the German Chamber of Commerce through Norwegian Danielle Mathiesen. Mark was then introduced to Deutche Bahn who became a client of WaveTrain. People are 62% more likely to do business with someone who is a member of a Chamber of Commerce.

Michelle Gamble from Marketing Angels, agrees. I met Michelle at a networking event for Small Business September in 2009 where she spoke about the power of social media. Two years later Michelle hired one of my friends Erin, who I had met at a university course the previous year. So for both business and employment, networking works. More than 60% of employment happens through networking.

So what skills are required to network like a pro?

Ivan Misner Ph.D. is one of the worlds most renowned academics and professionals in networking. Misner has conducted research on his privately owned professional business network, Business Network International, for more than 20 years. The research confirms a set of 7 must have skills to be a pro networker:

Be sincere
Have a positive and flexible attitude
Listen properly, don’t just wait for your turn to talk
Follow up on referrals, call or meet in person
Work your network effectively
Be trustworthy and Reliable
You must like to help others

Make sure you make an effort to learn what these 7 skills mean and how you can employ them. Tell people about them. Make a networking scorecard and game plan for how you will network in the future. If you would like to learn more, you can buy Misner's books ‘networking like a pro’ and ‘networking and sex’ or contact me for resources.

Next time you meet someone:

1 Introduce yourself in context

2 Be Interested

3 Request Contact Information

4 Follow up

Because future business is born through networks!

Sophia Demetriades Toftdahl

Sophia has been a professional networker for 6 years, owned a networking business for students looking for work and internships, built an online marketplace for connecting employers and interns, worked as a networking trainer for Business Networks International (BNI), worked as a relationship manager for entrepreneurial networks, and founded a bi-lateral Chamber of Commerce.

7 Vital Networking Skills:

Annual General Meeting 2017

Sat, 04 Nov 2017 03:54:17 GMT

October 10th The Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce had its annual general meeting at Radisson Blue in Sydney CBD. Sophia, the president of NACC lead the meeting in an orderly fashion, and took the meeting through its agenda.

The chamber has had success with its activities this past year, and financials are looking good. There was an engaged debate on events for next year, and many good suggestions were made, especially considering a potential Christmas party for 2018. The young professionals have also been successful in their monthly events with networking events, and they strive for a membership growth, and higher turnout at events.

During the meeting everyone who came had a chance to introduce themselves and there were plenty of time to meet new people, as well as greet old friends.

At the meeting there was an election for the board, and these are the new/re-elected board members.

Miles Ponsonby - Regional Director WA
Tietse Stelma - Regional Director VIC
Stig Falster - Director
Fiona Henderson - Executive Director
Sophia Demetriades - President
Charlotte Bekkevold remains as the chamber's Operations Manager

At the meeting NACC started its new projects which is making a film to promote Norwegian business in Australia that will feature on the Chamber and Embassy websites.

Thanks to everyone who came, and we hope to see you all at the cruise with the Europeans.

5 Ways to Enjoy Oslo Like a True Local by 50 Degrees North

Tue, 03 Oct 2017 03:53:04 GMT

5 Ways to Enjoy Oslo Like a True Local

08 May, 2017, by Ivy Thompson

Going to Norway’s capital Oslo as part of your Norway tour and have your CityPass organised? Take advantage of the easy and well-built public transport system to experience the sights just like a true local:

1. Hike around Lake Sognsvann

Growing up in Oslo myself, Lake Sognsvann was the destination for annual school sports-days, end-of-year BBQs and hikes. And no wonder- the magnificent beauty of Oslo is it’s close proximity to nature. The lush forest surrounding the capital is lovingly referred to as ‘Marka’ (the ‘Field’) by the locals who make the most of it rain, hail or shine.

How to get there: Lake Sognsvann is easily accessible by catching the west-bound ‘Number 5 Sognsvann’ Subway/ T-bane from the city. Ride it till the final stop, get off and follow the path down to the walking-trail that goes round the lake. The hike is a scenic and easy 3.5 km. In summer locals bring their bathers for a dip in the refreshing water, or simply wade in the shallows. Icecreams and refreshments can be bought at one of the 2 local kiosk.

Image credit: lukasz.ptak/Foap/Visitnorway.com

2. Enjoy a picnic in the Vigeland Sculpture Park

Most tourists visiting Oslo schedule a visit to the famous and spectacular Vigeland sculpture-park. This gorgeous park has to be seen to be believed: Locals love and use the park frequently, and for good reason. I highly recommend you take the trip and stroll around the park in your own time if your Oslo itinerary allows for it. While a guided tour is interesting and gives you the story behind sculptor Gustav Vigeland’s vision, this park is best enjoyed slowly. There are many areas, gardens, sculptures and fountains to explore. Have your pick from the many steps and benches, sit down and take in the view. We always stop by a nearby supermarket or bakery for provisions to enjoy in the park.

Travelling with kids? They’ll love the enormous adventure-playground located near the main-gates inside the park. How to get there: Tram #12 stops right in front of the main-gates, and so does the 21-bus. You can catch either from the city centre.

Image credit: Terje Borud - Visitnorway.com/Vigeland-museet/BONO

3. Take a stroll along Aker Brygge, Tjuvholmen and Akershus Festning (Medieval Fort)

Aker Brygge is where the action is at during the spring and summer months in Norway’s capital city. The shopping centre located along the inner part of the blue Oslo-fjord is buzzing with life from morning through to the small hours: it’s the place to see and be seen. Aker Brygge is much more than just another shopping strip; it offers bars, cafes, restaurants, speciality shops, an upmarket supermarket, and a fantastic opportunity to spend a few hours people watching by the pier. If fjord-watching is more your thing, Aker Brygge has you covered: it’s a lovely spot to sit and watch boats, ferries and cruise-ships pass by.

Floating Sauna near the Oslo Opera House, Image credit: VISITOSLO/Didrick Stenersen

Continue to walk along the pier till you hit the very end, cross the narrow walking-bridge, and you’ll find yourself in the newly constructed borough called Tjuvholmen (translates to ‘The Thief Islet’). The home of art installations, sculptures, world-class restaurants, the trendy Thief Hotel, coffee, shiny apartment-buildings, the acclaimed Astrup Fearnley-Museum and it’s very own inner-city Sea Baths (bring bathers and a towel!); the 2017-version of Tjuvholmen is a far cry from the shipping container dock we used to walk past in the early 90s.

Image credit: VISITOSLO/Tord Baklund

You can’t miss the striking medieval fort Akershus Festning directly across the fjord from Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen. The stone-castle was built in the late 13th century, and is located in front of what was once Old Town Oslo. Walking around the castle grounds is relaxing, albeit steep at times. The magnificent view over the harbour is well worth the hills though.

How to get there: Several buses and trams will take you down to the square called Vestbaneplassen in front of Oslo Town Hall, which marks the start of Aker Brygge/ Tjuvholmen to your right, and the Akershus Fort to your left (if you face the fjord). It’s also a very short walk from the Nationaltheatret railway/ subway/ bus- and tram stops.

Image credit: CH - visitnorway.com

4. Visit the beaches on the Bygdoy Peninsula

You probably don’t associate Oslo with beaches (and neither do I) but let’s embrace the concept: us Oslo-locals flock to the Bygdoy Peninsula during the summer school-holidays or any sunny day for that matter. It’s a gorgeous area west of the city. The peninsula is also the home of famous museums such as the Viking Ship Museum, The Kon-Tiki Museum, The Fram Museum and The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History.

But museums aside; for us locals Bygdoy offers cliffs, rocks, small sandy beaches, volleyball courts, forest, walking tracks and plenty of lush grass where we can embrace nature and those unpredictable warm summer-days. The two beaches are called Huk and Paradisbukta (Paradise Bay). Do as the locals and make the most of the light summer evenings by bringing a rug and good company. It’s hard to find a lovelier spot to enjoy our capital.

How to get there: Catch the #30-bus from the city and get off at the very last stop (it's a large car-park). There are clearly marked signs to both Huk and Paradisbukta.

Evening fjord boat tours will pass this area. Image credit: VisitOSLO/Thomas Johannessen

5. Walk from The Majorstua Building to the Oslo Central Station

While Oslo is the biggest city in Norway, it’s still small in comparison to most capital-cities worldwide. But small does not a boring city make: Oslo offers amazing shopping and sights, especially if you decide to tackle the city-centre by foot. Start your inner-city walk from the main-hub of the Inner West; The Majorstua Building (this is also a major subway-stop). It marks the very beginning of Bogstadveien; the main-shopping strip of the inner-west.

Full of shops with the latest in local design, fashion and homewares it offers something for everyone. Follow the road till it changes to Hegdehaugsveien, a road known for it’s bustling cafe-, restaurant and nightlife. When you get to the very end of Hegdehaugsveien you’ll find yourself across the road/ corner of the Royal Palace and its surrounding gardens. Walk the path through the relaxing castlegrounds, watch the National Guards on duty, and look ahead past the statue of Karl Johan: Oslo’s car-free main street, the Karl Johan’s Gate, is lying ahead of you.

Karl Johan St, Image credit: VISITOSLO/Didrick Stenersen

The main-street goes continues all the way down towards the East of the city, and ends in front of the Oslo Central Station. While the street and its side-streets are always buzzing with life, it’s particularly busy in summer, when people flock outside to catch up over cold drinks under the trees in the many cafes, pubs and restaurants.

Christmas/ Winter brings a different kind of charm when the large water-feature outside the Paleet Shopping Centre turns into an ice-skating rink. It’s open from November through to March and is free to use- skates can be hired at the venue. I find it particularly magic around Christmas-time when the Karl Johan Street is dressed in seasonal lights, enhanced by the darkness of the short days and long nights.

How to get there: Depending on the location of your accommodation, you can either walk to The Majorstua Building and walk south towards Oslo Central Station. Alternatively you can flip it around and start south, and walk towards Majorstua instead. Both starting-points are centrally located and easy to get to.

Image credit: Tord Baklund / VisitOSLO

Christmas in Oslo, Image Credit: CH/visitnorway.com

50 Degrees North specialises in holiday travel to Scandinavia, Finland, Iceland, Greenland, the Arctic and Russia. We specialise regionally, as we believe it is not possible to be good at everything. We are a specialist tour operator, but can also help book your international flights as a full service travel agent.

All our Norway tours are listed here.

Norwegian shows to watch in Australian Netflix this spring

Thu, 28 Sep 2017 04:50:51 GMT

Many of our favourite Norwegian TV shows are now available on Netflix in Australia, here is an introduction to some of them.

Kon Tiki

Kon Tiki is a Norwegian movie from 2013 and it is about Thor Heyrdahls with the same name. It was nominated for an Oscar and a Golden Globe for best foreign film and won four Amanda awards. It quickly became a Norwegian classic.

Occupied

Occupied is set in a futuristic Norway where they have stopped all oil production, and as a result EU hires Russia to occupy Norway to have them restart it. The series is set to an idea by Jo Nesbø, bestselling Norwegian author.

Nobel – peace at any cost

Nobel is a show about an Norwegian soldier in Afghanistan, “In Nobel, two stories carefully intertwine as a returning soldier and family man becomes a pawn in a political international game. As the stakes grow higher he is forced to discover just how far one should go in the name of peace” – IMDB The main character portrayed by the famous Aksel Hennie.

Norsemenn

Norsemenn is a satiric show about Viking life, in involves many loved Norwegian actors, and it is all set in English. The action takes place in 790AD and it shows the challenges the Vikings would go through in their daily life and how they dealt with rivalries, gender inequality, raids and power struggles. The show won “gullruten” for best humor program.

Slow TV

Slow TV is whe you follow something for a certain period of time, for instance Hurtigruten from Bergen to Kirkenes, or knitting a whole sweater. One TV channel will be dedicated to send it live for as long as it taked to finnish, this means hours of entertainment. Head on to Netflix and see what you favourite slow TV will be.

Tax, R&D, and Personnel Secondment Advice from KPMG

Wed, 06 Sep 2017 04:48:27 GMT

KPMG kindly hosted a Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce evening at their offices in Perth. The talks were excellent and certainly prompted a lot of discussions afterward.

The talks covered three main areas:

Cost saving ideas - five ways to cut taxes for yourself and your company. Caroline Hickson, Director, KPMG.

The Research and Development tax credit in Australia. What is it and is your organization eligible to make a claim? James Edwards, Partner, KPMG.

Tricks and traps of seconding staff to Australia – employment law basics. James Simpson, Partner, KPMG Law.

Caroline started the process looking at individuals, often working from home and how they could reduce personal income taxes. This included an interesting look at the ATO “My deductions” app and the process of keeping a 12 week travel log that can then be used as a basis for claims relating to business use of a personal vehicle for 5 years, providing of course that circumstances do not change.

The talk moved onto larger companies with some very interesting points about FBT and Data Analytics. For FBT there is now a draft ATO ruling about work related travel expenses providing greater clarity around situations where travel costs will attract FBT. Making sure that travel aligns with the ATO guidance could give companies significant savings over the years.

Data Analytics certainly seems to be a useful tool for larger companies judging by the examples. Some examples were Payroll Health Checks, including ensuring that salary sacrifice was carried out correctly and payroll tax calculated on the correct values, testing superannuation calculations for correct capping, and finally an investigation into FBT costs; where was money being spent and how does this compare to other organisations? Any anomalies could point to an opportunity to review company policies around expenditure on items such as entertainment.

James Edwards gave some very interesting insights into the funding of R&D and commercialisation, including the fact that there are two main areas of government support being the R&D Tax Incentive, an entitlement based benefit which can provide a reduction in tax payable or a cash rebate; and grant based programs which are traditionally competitive based with a need for matched funding.

For the R&D Tax Incentive, there was of course the question on what could be defined as eligible R&D activity, and the main tests broadly revolve around generation of new or improved products, processes, devices, services etc.; technical uncertainty and the presence of experimentation or testing.

There are many qualifying areas that companies need to be aware of, not least being who “owns” the R&D activity and hence the right to claim it under the R&D Tax Incentives – this ownership test considers three key issues being the right to exploit the intellectual property stemming from the R&D activities, the day to day control of the activities and bearing of the financial risk in undertaking the activities.

Another big question was what information had to be registered with the regulators to support the R&D Tax Incentive claim. Basically the registration document includes information relevant to each eligible R&D activity including areas of new knowledge being developed along with the associated technical uncertainty plus details of the experiments or tests that have or are anticipate to be performed. Additional substantiation documentation must be maintained by claiming companies to evidence their R&D activities.

Last but not least James Simpson covered seconding staff to Australia. It seems that even sophisticated companies can get it horribly wrong with multiple contracts that contradict each other in multiple different ways.

Contracts often quote policies and it is important to know how binding specific policies are. Generally it is recommended that they be advisory rather than contractually binding.

An interesting proposal was the personnel coming into Australia should undergo an induction on the laws that will be applicable to them while they are working here, this can cover things such as occupational health and safety which can vary dramatically from country to country.

Very briefly if you want to maximise a successful deployment of someone to Australia, consider the following points.

Get a clear contract that applies to Australia.
Consider the most appropriate jurisdiction for the contract; and
Ensure the contract adequately addresses the relevant visa conditions.

Challenging the ‘I’ in team – the recipe for a perfect team starts with you

Tue, 05 Sep 2017 04:47:02 GMT

For most of my working life I been part of a team. Some teams have been small and some have been big. I have been the team rookie, I have been the team fossil, and I have lead some of them myself. I have been extremely fortunate; all the teams have been truly awesome and have given me the opportunity to work with a lot of talented and passionate people. A common thread in these successful teams has been my willingness and openness to engaging with the team by being guided by strategies to get there from management and the broader company.

A direct correlation has been shown between the quality of the relationships in a team and the quality of the work the team produce. Team-building takes many forms and doing activities together is fun, great for team spirit and more importantly brings us together face to face (or side by side). All organisations want people and teams that consistently deliver high quality output. Unfortunately, we can’t go offsite, climb mountains, drive go-carts and do cooking classes every week. So, how do we nurture and fuel the team spirit and maintain relationships in a team between the annual team-building day; and why is it so important?

There are a whole range of reasons, some more obvious than others. Some of the most attractive organisations to work for globally have done extensive research around creating the perfect team. Over a two-year period, Google interviewed 180 teams and hundreds of employees searching for the recipe. What they found wasn’t what they expected. Who is on the team matters less than how the team members interact. High performing teams almost always displayed these 5 characteristics; “Psychological Safety” being the most important.

So if that’s the case, what is the best way and what is the benefit of creating an environment where people feel psychologically safe? Let’s look at a few favourites.

#Social Interaction.

Our social relationships have been shown to be the key to happiness in our personal lives. What might come as a surprise is that it also seems to be of great importance in the workspace. Not only does Google know how to create the perfect team, according to LinkedIn, employees who are hired to work for the most attractive company globally enjoy working there so much that they never want to leave. Google understand the value of people meeting face to face. Giving employees access to large areas with lounges and ping pong tables is about creating a space for people to meet, discuss, exchange ideas and have great conversations that might lead to new innovations and ‘the next big thing’. By increasing human interaction just a little, performance can increase a lot.

#Trust.

One of the key factors in great relationships is trust. In order to build trust we need to get to know each other. As with social interaction, this doesn't just apply in our personal life, it is also the case in our professional lives.

When people know and trust each other they also become more tolerant and supportive. They are more understanding and willing to get the job done. “Having teams that are open, trusting, and supportive of each other is a critical driver of an innovation culture”, writes Amantha Imber in her book The Innovation Formula. With the constant changes in the digital space, innovation is not only a buzz word, it’s necessary, in some places more than others. A company whose culture values teamwork alongside with risk and distributed leadership seems to inherently be more adaptable to these changes. Maybe it’s because they feel trusted to take risk and get the job done.

“Having teams that are open, trusting, and supportive of each other is a critical driver of an innovation culture”

#Empowerment.

Letting employees have a say and allowing them to make decisions is shown to increase productivity and work place satisfaction. More importantly, getting people on the ground doing the job and making suggestions about how to work smarter, increases productivity and cut costs; this in turn can make a big difference to the bottom line. Mining Company BHP Billiton did just that. They invited employees to put forward suggestions. A quarter of close to nine thousand employees made 4700 suggestions and the company believe it contributed to a total savings of close to 4 Billion dollars as a result. So not only is it good for the bottom line, employees end up feeling more involved and engaged at work which is positive in itself.

#Love

A little bit of love in the work place will also go a long way. Love doesn’t have to be a policy, but it can. Putting the interest of another person before yourself. Love can and should be a guiding star and philosophy in how we treat each other both in and outside of work. Love is about being comfortable with conflict and difficult conversations. In my opinion, what is even more important is the presence of love in everyday work life. A simple smile and giving someone the compliment they deserve can be enough.

I have experienced this myself. About ten years ago I was part of an amazing team in Norway. At our monthly sales meetings we would all give a short update about what we had achieved since we last met. Afterwards we would all put a Post-it with our name in a bowl and randomly pull out a note each. We then had to give feedback to another member of the team based on their update to the team, which had to positive.

The session was inspired by a segment from a reality show. The show called it “Black camel, White camel” where the contestants gave out one black camel for poor behaviour and a white camel for good behaviour to other contestants.

We renamed it “White camel, White camel” as it was all about creating a positive team environment. It sounds silly thinking about it but after this simple exercise where we put effort and into focusing on positive things we were all left feeling good, I know I did.

We tend to spend a lot of energy on things we can’t change. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for a good rant and believe there needs to be a space where one can voice opinions, maybe give out a few black camels too. We shouldn’t ignore the ‘black camels” and there are ways of addressing negative thoughts and obstacles for success. By turning negative feedback and statements into questions we open for exploration and possibilities. The truth is that it feels much more rewarding giving out white camels and focus on positive qualities and behaviours and we should strive to turn the black ones into possibilities rather than barriers.

“The quality of the relationships in a team has been shown to directly correlate with the quality of the work the team produce”

There are many other factors that can play a role in how a team performs. Let’s revisit and look at factors like team size, gender mix and the manager and the role they play at a later stage. Elements like engagement, social relationships and trust, psychological safety and love are all things that we all can influence and practice to increase performance of self, colleagues and team.

Smile, give compliments, grab a coffee or go for a walk with a colleague. Schedule a lunch or after work drinks with people in your team this week. Ask each other questions and talk about things outside of work too. Don’t know what to talk about? Use tools like FuelBox with a 170 questions to get the conversation started and remember that great conversations are made up of both talking and listening. This won’t make the perfect team straight away but it’s a good start and best of all, you can do this today.

The original post can be found here. To read more about what FuelBox can do for your relationships, at work and at home, visit fuelboxaustralia.com.au here.

#team building #social interaction #professional development #relationships #fueltheworld

#conversations #fuelbox #fuelbox australia, #joergen broers, #jørgen brørs

Interview with Lene Skaug, Teacher and Translator

Wed, 09 Aug 2017 04:46:09 GMT

Today, we get to know the Chambers Norwegian and English teacher Lene Skaug, who runs her own teaching and translating business from Sydney, Australia. Learning a language is a great way to stretch your brain, and Lene teaches both face-to-face and online, so if you or your staff want to pick up some Norwegian phrases or widen your vocabulary, you should get in touch with Lene here.

What kind of clients are you looking for?

I’m looking for all people / businesses interested in learning Norwegian and learning more about Norway and the Norwegian culture. I offer private Norwegian tuition in my home office in Manly or lessons via Skype.
I am also happy to create Special Intensive Courses for businesses around Australia interested in their employees learning some typical Norwegian greetings, expressions and/or work-related vocabulary.

What’s happening in your industry right now?

The interest in learning Norwegian has been steady for the last 10-15 years, but the big change is the new possibilities via Skype and all the online resources and communication tools available for learning languages. Now it is much easier for example to get a private tutor that suits your schedule because of skype, and the increase in tourism and cheaper flights also mean that more people are travelling to Norway more often, e.g. Australian grand parents with grandchildren in Norway, or students and partners with friends and families in both countries.

What is your passion? Or what drives you to get up in the morning?

I am passionate about learning and self-development, and being part of other people’s journey, other people wanting to learn and to grow. My purpose is to enhance a person’s learning and learning experience. Open up new possibilities in meeting with others and other cultures.

What is a great learning experience you’ve made in the workplace?

I have learned a lot from the environment and surroundings; the atmosphere is so important for all kinds of work I would argue, and especially learning and teaching. I’m teaching English to immigrants and international students in Sydney, and Norwegian to Australian people in Sydney, and there is a big difference in learning English as a second language (learners live in the country of the language being taught) and Norwegian as a foreign language (you don’t live in the country of the language being taught). I find that most Norwegians really appreciate people who makes that great effort which it is to learn Norwegian, but I think we all forget at times how much time and effort it takes, because Norwegian people learn and hear English around them all the time, which of course is not the case of learning Norwegian when in Australia. Time and effort is necessary to pass that first hurdle when learning a new language. But as mentioned previously, with all the online possibilities today, there are so many more tools available to you to learn a new language.

What are you interested in learning more about?

I became a member of the Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce, because I’m interested in learning more about Norwegian and Australian cooperation and businesses, and the importance of language and culture for this development. Networking and information talks like the one by Ulf Sverdrup on “The future of the European Union” are things I want to take part in.

Are there any Norwegian traditions you miss?

The value of public schooling and hospitals, equal education for all children and youth. I don’t miss Norwegian food in general, but when I’m in Norway, I love eating typical Norwegian food, and when I’m in Australia, I like my Australian food. However, there is one thing that I miss and that’s Norwegian bread. Last year I came across this great Rye bread at “Rema”, and it’s impossible to find anything like that in Sydney. And of course, I miss keeping track of all the things happening in Norwegian cultural life, e.g. music, arts, writers and movies.

What I don’t miss? Maybe we take things a bit for granted in Norway. Except for the weather. It’s always the weather to keep us grounded.

Lene Skaug, teacher and translator. Master of Applied Linguistics (TESOL). www.norsk.com.au

Introducing the new Young Professionals board

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 04:44:47 GMT

The Norwegian-Australian Young Professionals is glad to introduce our new board (from left):

Alexander Paskal Paulsen - Vice President

Mariann Ratama - Event Manager

Marius Quamme Danielsen - President

Line Vo - Membership Manager

The board looks forward to continue building up the Young Professionals divison, and hope to see you at their future events.

The first event under the new board will be arranged on the 27th of June at 6pm at El Loco at Slip Inn in the CBD.

Please find the link to the facebook event here, and remember to like their facebook page.

Celebrating Art and Business by Jasmijn Van Houten

Tue, 13 Jun 2017 04:42:26 GMT

A variety of European business partners decked out the great hall of the National Gallery of Victoria on Monday night, to celebrate each other and the latest Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition, and one rookie came along to see what it was all about.

The National Gallery of Victoria is no stranger to international guests, but the sheer variety of European voices that filled its great hall on Monday night is not often seen. European chambers joined together to present ‘Europeans at the Gallery’, an event celebrating European business in Australia as well as the ‘Van Gogh and the Seasons’ Melbourne Winter Masters exhibition that is currently exhibiting at the NGV. It was a display of unity that, in today’s political environment, is rare and incredibly welcome.

“Which is why we’re glad that the UK is also here,” it was quipped.

Personally, I had little experience with the world of European business, and was mainly drawn by the promise of being treated to a private viewing of ‘van Gogh and the Seasons,’ but even a positive newcomer, like yours truly, was able to glean that there was a positive vibe at the event. The presence of freely flowing food and drink was no direct obstacle to this, of course, but mainly it was a sense of genuine excitement about the myriad of exciting and differing voices being brought together that was to thank.

Guest speakers on the night were Dr Ted Gott, senior International Art curator at the NGV, and Willem Cosijn from the Netherlands Consul-General.

“Van Gogh, if pronounced correctly, should sound as if you’re very sick,” joked Cosijn, and as a fellow countrywoman, I can testify that he is not wrong.

Representatives from varied European chambers of commerce were also present, ranging from Switzerland to The Netherlands and many more.

Thanks to a big turnout, there was no shortage of interesting people to talk to - to the point of being almost stressful. It was fantastic to see such a melting pot of different backgrounds, as it is exactly this mix of differing influences, and not to mention the arts, that makes Melbourne such an exciting city.

The event was rather brief, though, at precisely three hours, and we were politely asked to leave at 9 o’clock on the dot by staff. And, unfortunately, on a Monday night there’s little hope of an after-party - but that’s probably just my youth talking.

The real star of the night, however, was the private viewing of the exhibition, which was curated according to the seasons, which were a source of fascination and inspiration to van Gogh. It is the largest collection of van Gogh’s to have ever travelled to Australia, and provides insight into his inspirations, including a room dedicated to Japanese art that inspired him, which is a connection not often made when discussing his work.

This focus on the season recalls the latest major exhibition at the NGV dedicated to David Hockney, which also had a strong connection to the seasons. In this way, ‘van Gogh and the Seasons’ feels almost like a spiritual successor of the exhibition space.

There’s little that can be said about van Gogh that hasn’t been said before, but it can be said that it would be hard to find a less perfect match than the marriage made between van Gogh and Europeans at the Gallery: the broad, bold strokes of van Gogh mirror the strength of trade and business between Europe and Australia.

A great article written about the Europeans at the Gallery event, which was held at the National Gallery of Victoria on the 29th of May.

Article is written by Jasmijn Van Houten from RMIT University, see original article here.

Norwegian Chamber Launch Event in Perth was a great success

Fri, 09 Jun 2017 04:38:31 GMT

The Norwegian Chamber Launch Event in Perth on the 7th of June was a great success and an important benchmark for the continous growth of the Norwegian Chamber in Australia.

The event had 40 attendess from multiple industries and companies in Perth, as well as great and insightful talks from KPMG, AMMA and the Norwegian Ambassador Unni Kløvstad.

We would like to welcome Yara Pilbara and DOF Subsea as corporate members in Perth, as well as Kongsberg Maritime and Searcher Seismicas a business members in Perth.

Thank you to everyone attending the event, and we look forward to many more successful events in the future in Perth. Please contact us if you have any ideas for events or would like to cooperate in the future.

Successful Europeans at the Gallery event in Melbourne

Wed, 31 May 2017 04:33:39 GMT

The Norwegian-Australian Chamber of Commerce had our first partner event in Melbourne this week, Monday 29th of May.

The event was a great success with 380 guests in total from the 14 participating European chambers.

We look forward to collaborating on similar events in the future and are currently looking for Regional Directors in the Melbourne area for the Chamber.

CHANGES TO THE SUBCLASS 457 AND SUBCLASS 186 VISAS

Fri, 12 May 2017 04:32:37 GMT

On 18 April 2017, the Government announced that the Temporary Work (Skilled) visa (Subclass 457) will be abolished and replaced with the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa in March 2018. Some changes have already been implemented and more changes will be made throughout the year to transition from the Subclass 457 visa to the TSS. The changes also affect the permanent residency visa under the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186).

One of the changes which took effect on 19 April 2017 is that the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and the Consolidated Sponsored Occupation List (CSOL) have been replaced with the Medium and Long-term Strategic List (MLTSSL) and the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). In the process, 216 occupations have been removed entirely from the visa program and 59 occupations have limitations (“caveats”) placed on them. The STSOL and MLTSSL will be reviewed every 6 months. The Government has already announced that further changes will come into effect on 1 July 2017, 31 December 2017 and 1 March 2018.

This means that if an employer wishes to sponsor an overseas employee either for a temporary visa or for permanent residency for which the employee currently qualifies, the application should be lodged as soon as possible with the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) as changes may be made at any time without warning. However, even if an application has been lodged and the requirements are met at the time of lodgement, the visa may still be rejected if the requirements are changed while the visa is being processed. If this is the case, any fees that have been paid may or may not be recovered.

If you wish to discuss visa options for your employees or want more information on the proposed changes, please do not hesitate to contact us at mkobras@schweizer.com.au or give us a call on (02) 9223 9399.

May 2017

Disclaimer

This article contains comments of a general nature only and is provided as an information service only. The article also reflects the law as at the date it was written and may not take into account any recent or subsequent developments in the law. The article is not intended to be relied upon, nor is it a substitute for specific professional advice. No responsibility can be accepted by Schweizer Kobras, Lawyers & Notaries or the author(s) for any loss occasioned to any person doing anything as a result of anything contained in the article.

Ms Mary Ellen Miller announced as Australia’s next Ambassador to Denmark, Iceland and Norway

Wed, 12 Apr 2017 04:28:41 GMT

On the 11th of April, 2017, Hon Julie Bishop announced the appointment of Ms Mary Ellen Miller as Australia's next Ambassador to Denmark with non-resident accreditation to Iceland and Norway.

Today I announce the appointment of Ms MaryEllen Miller as Australia's next Ambassador to Denmark with non-resident accreditation to Iceland and Norway.

Australia enjoys strong bilateral relations with Denmark, Iceland and Norway, and extensive people-to-people links, with over 78,000 Australians claiming ancestry from these three countries. We share an enduring commitment to global security and cooperate closely on human rights, gender equality, development cooperation, climate change, non-proliferation and disarmament, and trade liberalisation.

Australia, Denmark and Norway work together to counter violent extremism and terrorism including through our military contributions to the international Coalition fighting ISIS in Iraq and Syria, as well as the Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan, to which Iceland also contributes.

Norway and Denmark are important investment partners for Australia, with two-way investment in 2015 worth $22.1 billion and $5.5 billion. Two-way goods and services trade with Denmark, Norway and Iceland in 2015-16 was worth $2.5 billion, $1.2 billion and $149 million, respectively.

Ms Miller is a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and was most recently Assistant Secretary, Non-Government Organisations & Volunteers Branch. She has held a range of positions in DFAT, including Assistant Secretary, Scholarships & Alumni Branch. Ms Miller holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Canberra.

I thank outgoing Ambassador Damien Miller for his contributions to advancing Australia's interests in Denmark, Iceland and Norway since 2013.

Our members met with the newly appointed Ambassador, at a successful roundtable discussion hosted by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, on the 7th of April.

The Norwegian Chamber President, Sophia Demetriades Toftdahl, welcomes the announcement of the appointment and looks forward to a productive relationship between the Chamber and the Ambassador.

The Norwegian Embassy Annual Business Seminar, 2016 Perth

Thu, 17 Nov 2016 03:26:37 GMT

On November 17, 2016, HE Ms Unni Kløvstad, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway invited more than 100 delegates from Norwegian companies with a presence in Australia to the 2016 Norwegian Embassy Annual Business seminar . The keynote address was by the Norwegian State Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy, Ms Ingvil Tybring Gjedde.

Following the keynote address, Miranda Taylor, the CEO of National Energy Resources Australia (NERA), spoke about unlocking commercial opportunities and drive Innovation; followed by Silje Troseth, General Manager Q-free who spoke about Smart Cities – Intelligent Transport Technology and Innovation for tomorrow’s societies. A panel of the three aforementioned seekers was then moderated by Paul Cleary, Journalist for the Australian and author of the book 'Trillion Dollar Baby'.

The second part of the seminar included interesting talks on how Norwegian Australian business can succeed employing resources from Innovation Norway, The Norwegian Embassy and The Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce, held by Svend Haakon Kristensen from Innovation Norway and Sophia Demetriades Toftdahl, President of the Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce.

Now in its third year, the Norwegian Embassy Annual Business Seminar is a professional update and networking opportunity for Norwegian companies operating or investing in Australia and the wider South Pacific region.

Delegates then enjoyed a networking lunch with the seminar organisers and speakers.

Embassy staff, as well as representatives from the European Australian Business Council, Innovation Norway and Norwegian Australian Business Network were also be available to discuss business activities within the Embassy's jurisdiction of Australia, New Zealand, Cook Island, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Tonga and Tuvalu.

Program and Speaker Profiles are included below.

KEYNOTE ADDRESS
State Secretary Ingvil Tybring-Gjedde
The Global Energy Outlook Towards 2030 Seen from Norway. How to Innovate & Stay Ahead

Ingvil Smines Tybring-Gjedde was appointed Deputy Minister in the Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy on December 16th 2015. She is a representative of the Norwegian Progress Party (FrP), and deputy organizational leader of Oslo FrP. Tybring-Gjedde came from the position as Project Manager at Innovation Norway. Previously, she has worked as a Senior Adviser in the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and with oil and gas in management positions at Innovation Norway and The Norwegian School of Management – BI.
SPEAKERS
Miranda Taylor, CEO of National Energy Resources Australia (NERA)
How to Unlock Commercial Opportunities and Drive Innovation

Prior to appointment as CEO of National Energy Resources Australia, Miranda Taylor was the Director Environment, Safety & Operational Performance for APPEA. Miranda has more than 20 years' experience in strategic policy, risk management and stakeholder engagement, working with various industries and with State and Federal governments. Miranda has participated in a number of task forces and ministerial panels, and has presented at international oil and gas industry events. She facilitated APPEA's interaction with the global industry in response to the Gulf of Mexico well control integrity disaster and the Australian Montara incident. Miranda has an Honours Degree from The London School of Economics, London University in International Economics and Politics, and a Post Graduate Degree in Labour Relations.
Silje Troseth, General Manager Q-free
Smart Cities – Intelligent Transport Technology and Innovation for Tomorrow’s Societies

Silje Troseth has been a Transportation professional for over 15 years. In her work in the Transport Industry she has been focussing on Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) in the European, Asia Pacific and Australian markets. More recently Silje has been championing the Smart City concept and vison for Q-Free. She holds a Masters degree in Communications and Journalism from University of Technology Sydney. Born in Norway, Silje has called Australia her home since 1999.
Paul Cleary, The Australian
The Trillion Dollar Baby, the Norwegian Oil and Gas Adventure Seen from Australia

Paul Cleary is a prominent Australian journalist who has documented the politics and economics of resource extraction for more than a decade. He served as an adviser to the government of East Timor on resource-sector governance and negotiations, and has a doctorate from the Australian National University. He is the author of Too Much Luck, Mine-Field and Trillion Dollar Baby.

Sophia Demetriades Toftdahl, President, the NorwegianAustralian Chamber of Commerce (NACC)
How to Succeed In Australia?

As a communications specialist, Sophia has been involved in the daily operation of business networks such as TiE and BNI, is a member of several chambers of commerce, has written 2 eBooks on leveraging networks to succeed, and a thesis on excellence in communication. She tailors communication to employers, employees, customers, & strategic partners.

The Norwegian Australian Business Network is for all intents and purposes an establishment of Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce. It launched in 2014, with the objective to be Australia’s premier Norwegian Australian business organisation.

Program Overview

Wednesday 16 November

17:00-19:00 Networking Cocktail Function

Thursday 17 November

8:30am Registration & Coffee

9:00am Welcome

H.E. Unni Kløvstad, Ambassador of Norway

9:10am The Global Energy Outlook Towards 2030 Seen From Norway. How to Innovate & Stay Ahead?

Ingvil Tybring-Gjedde, Deputy Minister, the Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy

9:30am How to Unlock Commercial Opportunities and Drive Innovation (tbc)

Miranda Taylor, CEO, National Energy Resources Australia (NERA)

9:45am Smart Cities – Intelligent Transport Technology and Innovation for Tomorrow’s Societies

Silje Troseth, General Manager Q-free

10:00am Panel Discussion with Q&A

Moderated by Paul Cleary

10:30am Coffee break

11:00am The Trillion Dollar Baby, The Norwegian Oil And Gas Adventure Seen From Australia

Paul Cleary, The Australian

11:30am How to Succeed Internationally?

Sven Haakon Kristensen, Innovation Norway

11:45am How to Succeed In Australia?

Sophia Demetriades Toftdahl, President, the NorwegianAustralian Chamber of Commerce (NACC)

12:00 pm How Can We Help? Working Together. Followed by Q&A

H.E. Unni Kløvstad, Ambassador of Norway

12:30pm Networking Lunch

EU Chamber of Commerce Presidents explore EU-AU Economy with Handelsbanken

Sun, 12 Jun 2016 04:23:39 GMT

On June 12, The Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce invited Presidents from the other European Chambers for the Chambers second Boardroom breakfast at QT Hotel in Sydney. The aim of this event was to introduce the Norwegian companies to other European players in Australia and invite further Norwegian company representatives. Attendees were entertained and educated by Handeelsbanken Economist Knut Anton Mork. Handelsbanken is the only Scandinavian bank with a presence in Australia.

First Secretary for the Norwegian Embassy in Canberra, Kaja Glomm, explained their presence in Australia and welcomed members to reach out should they need anything.

With outstanding food an in great company by 55 CEO's, this event resulted in further member subscriptions and stronger network ties within the European Australian community.

Sponsor: Handelsbanken

Speaker: Knut Anton Mork, Chief Economist for Handelsbanken Norway

Presentation: http://norwegianchamber.com.au/boardroom-breakfast-presentation-handelsbanken/

Norwegian rail technology saving Australian lives

Mon, 02 May 2016 04:21:58 GMT

The Norwegian company Wavetrain Systems has, in the matter of months, established itself as a large contributor to road and rail safety here in Australia. The company is working towards a railway technology that will not only save millions of dollars but also human lives.

Founded in Norway in 2009, the company first hit Australian soil last year July 1. Within a few months, Wavetrain Systems’ technology for railway safety has already received green light for trials in Western Australia, Victoria and New South Wales and expects full integration of the system into Australian railways within a few years’ time.

Their main focus at the moment are the railway level crossings, which produce great danger for road workers, wildlife, humans and also the trains. By creating a sensory technology that will detect the smallest forms of movement within 8 kilometres, Wavetrain Systems is opening a whole new world of possibilities.

Railway authorities across the world struggle to reach their goals in regards to safety at these level crossings, and this is the way to reduce the risk.

“We are currently focusing on the countries around the world that operate within CENELEC standards, and this includes Australia,” says the Country Manager for Wavetrain Systems Mark Foster.

During a presentation held by the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce Wednesday 26th April, Mark Foster spoke to all the leading Norwegian businesses that are based here in Sydney and a part of NACC. He also announced that Mike Devlin had accepted the role as Managing Director for the Australian entity.

“We expect that in a few years’ time, our technology will be incorporated into the whole Australian railway system,” he concluded.

“We are pleased to see a Norwegian company doing so well in Australia, trusting this innovation will positively affect Australian rail safety and lives,” says President of the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce Sophia Demetriades Toftdahl.

Click here to read more about Wavetrain Systems.

The Norwegian company Ekornes opens new headquarters in Sydney

Thu, 28 Apr 2016 04:20:07 GMT

As a part of the Embassy’s ongoing dialogue and cooperation with Norwegian business, Ambassador Unni Kløvstad, hosted a network lunch for Norwegian companies in Sydney, with participants from Ekornes, FuelBox, Imatis, Meltwater, Norske Skog, Q-Free, Scandinavian Business Seating, Wavetrain Systems and Wilhelmsen Ships Service among others.

The Norwegian Embassy in Canberra and the Consulate General in Sydney along with Norwegian Chamber of Commerce and Norwegian companies, make up Team Norway in Sydney. The Team works to strengthen cooperation and a sense of community among Norwegian actors in order to promote Norwegian value creation overseas.

Whilst in Sydney, The Ambassador also visited the office of the Norwegian company Imatis, which is Scandinavia’s leading digital health application provider. The Ambassador was given an interesting presentation of the Imatis Visi solution which is a complete system for managing resources, processes and collaboration along the patient pathway. Imatis’ innovative health application is already in use at the new Royal Adelaide Hospital and at 11 of Healthscope’s hospitals.

Statoil launches new subsea concept

Wed, 20 Apr 2016 04:19:31 GMT

During the Barents Sea Conference in Hammerfest today, Statoil presented a new subsea concept that is designed to reduce cost and increase efficiency. This concept is called Cap-X.

Cap-X was today presented by Margareth Øvrum, Statoils’, Vice President for Technology, Projects and Drilling.

"Once again we aim to drive subsea technology development on the Norwegian continental shelf together with our industry partners. The potential for increased efficiency and reduced costs can make this the next standard within subsea templates," says Margareth Øvrum.

"With Cap-X, Statoil is one step closer to a “plug and play” solution on the seabed."

This technology increases the efficiency of horizontal drilling in shallow reservoirs.

To read the full article, go here.

LNG-powered vessel first for Australia

Tue, 12 Apr 2016 04:18:49 GMT

Woodside today signed a five-year charter contract with Norwegian company Siem Offshore Australia Pty Ltd.

This agreement delivers Australia its first LNG-powered (Liquified Natural Gas) marine support vessel in 2017.

Woodside is Australia’s most experienced LNG operator and largest independent oil and gas company.

The company is currently working towards a greener future by reducing vessel greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions among other areas.

Visit the Woodside website to view the full media press release.

Visit Woodside.com.au

Norwegian shipping company Siem Offshore is coming to Australia!

Fri, 01 Apr 2016 03:17:03 GMT

Siem Offshore has been awarded a contract through their wholly owned subsidiary Siem Offshore Australia for the Anchor Handling Tug Supply (AHTS) vessel “Siem Topas” of Woodside Energy, according to a statement on Friday.

- This is a very good day for us. It is a tough market and we are not ensuring eighteen months of work every day, says Siem Offshore CEO Idar Hillersøy to Sysla.no.

The vessel will operate in Australia, and the contract is expected to begin in May 2016. The duration is 18 months plus options, the statement said.

Siem Offshore has five AHTS vessels and two supply ships laid up at the buoys, according to Sysla.

Read the article here.

Launching the first ever Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce in Sydney

Mon, 21 Mar 2016 03:15:53 GMT

March 31, 2015

On the 31st of March, 30 CEO's from some of Norways most reputable companies with a presence in Australia met at Baker & McKenzie offices to consult on their needs and wants for a Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce. The group agreed around a desire for few and high-level events, with a focus on member promotion.

The founding board membersincluded; Sophia Demetriades Toftdahl (President), Danielle Mathiesen (Events), Sarah Chopping (Treasurer), and Ulf Varding (Memberships). The volunteer board laid out a strategic plan to reach membership numbers of 50 companies and 50 individuals by 2017. Their strategy to reach these numbers include hosting business networking events, collaborating with the Norwegian Embassy and including members and prospect members in cultural social events and online communities.

The annual event plan includes 2 sponsored board room breakfasts, 17. May national day event, Scandinavian film festival, Annual General Meeting, 4 Euromix events, Cruise for the Europeans, The Norwegian Embassy's Annual Business Seminar, and Christmas drinks.

"We are grateful that someone is finally starting a Chamber for the Norwegian companies in Australia", says Andrew McKean and Andrew Leighton from Norske Skog.

"We are please to see such a positive response forn the Norwegian business community, especially considering we lost our culture house in Balgowlah late last year", says founding president Sophia Demetriades Toftdahl.

Attendees included representatives from; Wilh. Wilhelpmsen Investment, DNV Global, Norske Skog, Scandi Media, The Norwegian Consulate, Imatis and Vision Stream, Interrock, Deloitte, Lighthouse8, Q-Free, SBS Norwegian, Switzer, Baker & McKenzie, Alfa Laval, and Dream Internship. Many additional companies were interested but not able to attend, and the Chamber is positive the interest will increase over time.

Sponsor: Baker and McKenzie

Speaker: James Halliday, Partner Baker and McKenzie

Welcome to our Blog

Thu, 03 Mar 2016 03:14:57 GMT

Welcome to Norwegian Australian Chamber of Commerce!