Saskia Pickles

Australia’s trade deficit improved to $2.3 billion for the month of September, in seasonally adjusted terms, despite Western Australia’s export performance being softer than the same time last year.

St John Ambulance has reported increased revenue and surplus for the 2014-15 financial year, growing its income from ambulance trips, health department contracts, and first aid training services.

A 95 per cent increase in calls to Lifeline WA over the past five years has prompted the crisis support service to raise funds for volunteer training.

Researchers at Western Australian universities have secured 8 per cent of grants in the latest round of national research funding, which has allocated a total of $357 million.

A host of “hero” events, attracted in part by the development of new hotels and Elizabeth Quay, is set to drive significantly increased revenue into the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, with flow-on effects for the wider economy.

Complaints about anti-social behaviour in Fremantle have prompted the council to enact a zero-tolerance strategy that will include more police patrols, better lighting and a crackdown on begging.

Irish fast food company Supermac’s is confident the legal obstacles put up by McDonald’s Australia will not stop it expanding into Perth and Sydney.

Paul Vogel has used his last Environmental Protection Authority annual report to highlight concerns about growing traffic congestion and vehicle emissions, as well as support plans that promote greater uptake of cycling and public transport.

Dedication, commitment, and business acumen pay off for some of the state’s leading NFP executives.