The Government’s controversial new industrial relations reforms came into effect this week, amid strong opposition from the Labor Party and the unions. But for many small business owners, who claim to have been handicapped by the previous system, the changes have been a long time coming. Founder of the Small Business Union Graeme Haycroft says both employers and employees can benefit from the new laws.

Yesterday, Israel’s interim Prime Minister Ehud Olmert claimed victory in the Israeli election but his centrist Kadima party only got 28 out of 120 seats in the Knesset and will now have to form a coalition government. At the same time, Hamas, a group that Israel has refused to have any dealings with, has taken over power in the Palestinian territories. The Wire’s Middle East expert Dr John Bruni expects Kadima to form a coalition with the Labour party but how this will affect the Israel – Palestine relations is uncertain.

As India and China emerge as growing economies they’ll put increasing pressure on the world’s energy supplies. So, like most western countries, they’re now searching for an alternative energy source. Indian journalist, Hartosh Singh Bal spoke about how alternative fuels can sort out the impending crisis.

The cyclone season is upon us yet again. Larry caused devastation last week in Queensland, and Cyclone Glenda is this week threatening northern Western Australia. This has led some climate experts to once again voice their concerns that global warming and the greenhouse effect are large contributing factors to these cyclones and other changes to the environment. Every day our cities pump out tonnes of greenhouse gases…cars, buses, factories and office buildings all emit carbon dioxide, contributing to global warming. But the Australian Carbon Biosequestration Initiative is developing a new idea to mitigate the carbon footprints of large companies. They’re involved in the building of the first 'five star' green building in Adelaide, on the city’s busiest street. ACBI’s CEO, Brian Barwick explains his organisation's project.

Legal agencies around Australia have joined forces today to launch a national online forum assisting young people living in regional areas. Covering a range of topics from drugs to police, the site provides information on legal resources and lawyers will be online to answer legal queries. James McDougall, Director of the National Children’s and Youth Law Centre spoke with Justina Legoe about the online forum and privacy.