Happy New Year to you all !!!

While you all have been celebrating the new year, the world continues to revolve. This month highlights are;

• Two thirds of businesses are optimistic about thier outlook for 2010 according to a global survey. This is in marked contrast and much more positive that what the IMF forecasters were advising earlier on.
• Australia is making it easier for NZ doctors to work where-ever they like in Australia. Next to rugby and cricket, is there another Trans-Tasman war erupting??
• The Pacific Community is targetted with various immigration visa scams. They are advised to use a licenced immigration adviser, by INZ and by their leaders. Well done!! Please refer our news article.
• Strong criticism is aired on the curent tax regime even requesting a total overhaul of the system. GST (from 12.5% to 15%?) personal tax rates and company tax rates are all under review.
• Investment funds in the Tourism industry is targetted to get more Aussies over the ditch to New Zealand.
• Avatar is beating all box office results, is linked to the Maori language and adds a cool $30m to NZ's economy. Keep this going, guys, well done.
• Frivolous issuing of work to residence visas is questionned, and yes, why is INZ not held responsible for what they are doing? See our news article.

Happy reading, see you next month ...