Shorten's Qld push could be derailed by unhappy miners

Almost half of mining companies in Queensland say too much red tape has meant they are at cost disadvantage by doing business in the state, in a blow to federal Labor's plans to win seats there in the election, according to the Australian Financial Review.

The perception of the state Labor government as hindering business and increasing the regulatory burden on the mining sector could seriously damage Shorten's attempts to pick up 10 seats in Queensland as part of his push for 19 seats to win government on July 2.

Miners need to get ready for foray of private capital, says EY

The Australian Financial Review reports that mining companies need to better prepare assets they intend to sell in order to ensure they deliver shareholder value ahead of expectations of a much-anticipated foray by private capital into the industry, according to a report by accounting and advisory firm EY.

EY transactions partner Paul Murphy said a combination of commodity price volatility and a higher number of companies in distress was likely to result in divestment programs picking up in Australia in coming months.

Palmer backs fed liquidators for QNI

Embattled Queensland businessman Clive Palmer has backed the federal government being appointed as a liquidator to his failed Queensland Nickel business, saying he doesn't have confidence in the current liquidator, FTI Consulting, according to the Australian Financial Review.

In a move that will increase tensions in the legal battles to chase Palmer's millions after the collapse of the Townsville nickel refinery, the retiring federal MP said he would like to see the Commonwealth handle most of the duties as liquidator.