Fraser Beattie

Diversified miner Independence Group has slashed its workforce by 28 positions at its Long Operation in Kambalda, as it implements a number of cost-saving changes to its mining plan in response to the depressed nickel market.

Online screening and verification company CVCheck has had a quiet first of trading on the ASX, closing 1 cent higher to 21 cents.

The founder and non-executive chairman of Henderson-based shipbuilder Austal has sold down a portion of his shareholding in the company for $7.24 million.

Energy giant Woodside Petroleum is considering growth opportunities in Papua New Guinea, announcing today it was evaluating a takeover offer for Oil Search through an all-scrip deal valued at more than $11 billion.

The environmental watchdog has recommended approval of a new iron ore mine in the Pilbara, proposed by resources giant BHP Billiton.

Local oil and gas company Antares Energy has sold its two remaining assets in the Permian Basin in Texas to an undisclosed private equity buyer, for about $US250 million ($A360 million).

Former head of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission Allan Fels will lead an independent panel to receive and review claims involving underpaid staff by franchisees of 7-Eleven.

Dempsey Minerals has announced a change in direction with a proposed acquisition of a local unlisted oil explorer, in a deal valued at about $2.6 million.

Stakeholders in Sirius Resources have shown their support for the proposed acquisition by Independence Group, with three recommendations passing by an almost unanimous vote.