Talent shortage and hiring pressures are leading many companies to over-promote or over-compensate new hires, according to a survey released by RMIT Online today.   

The report, The Salary Trap, identifies almost half of Australian managers (46%) believe their companies had to overpay for new hires in the past year due to market competition and high expectations from candidates. A similar number (40%) also say those hired don’t have the skills or experience necessary for the new roles. 

The data also shows 35% of managers and a quarter of non-managers say the new hires have the highest salaries for their positions, which can cause internal friction.

“A tight job market means many companies are more open to fast-tracking careers or hiring professionals with fewer years of experience,” says Claire Hopkins, RMIT Online Interim CEO. 

“This is not necessarily a problem and can positively contribute to finding and promoting great talent. However, businesses must complement this with support and training to ensure new employees have what is needed to succeed.”

The CEO adds leaders have to understand the issue better not only to support new hires but also to avoid creating attrition within the current employees. 

“The talent shortage means retaining team members is critical. Companies must ensure they are actively putting strategies together to prioritise their employer value proposition – whether this be through remuneration, or providing on-the-job or formal training opportunities to help staff realise their potential.” 

The survey also identifies a third of managers (34%) who moved to a new company in the past year are concerned they don’t have the right skills. They are so worried that 37% are actively looking for another position just months into the new job.  

There are several reasons managers and employees are moving to new roles, even when feeling unprepared. 

The data indicates most unsatisfied workers (57%) don’t feel valued by their employers, and half of those (51%) believe they aren’t receiving adequate compensation for their current role or level of responsibility.  

Rising inflation is also contributing to increasing career moves. Over 85% of those surveyed say a  higher cost of living makes financial compensation more critical now than a year ago, increasing the likelihood of moving for a better paycheck. 

The research reveals over a third of workers changed jobs in the past year for better pay. Of those, 61% did so for less than $10,000 a year, and 28% for less than $5,000.  

The RMIT Online survey shows employees recognise they need training in areas such as data analytics, digital literacy and leadership.

To learn more, visit: online.rmit.edu.au/insights/2022-oct .

More Australians are now taking on a second job or side hustle to relieve cost of living pressures. But is the extra money worth the amount of time (and tax) it takes up? UNSW Business School experts explain. 

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) recently revealed that the number of Australians with multiple jobs has risen 8 per cent, to make extra money. This made up 6 per cent of all employed people – a massive 900,000 individuals across all industries in Australia. 

Dr Evgenia Dechter, a Senior Lecturer at the School of Economics, UNSW Business School is an expert in labour economics. She says this rise in people taking on second jobs is not surprising, with the pandemic opening several new opportunities for a lot of people who were looking to supplement or replace their job.

‘While we saw job transitions and business creations slowdown in 2020, it’s clearly been followed up by larger than average movements in 2022,” she explains.

Why are we seeing more second jobs in Australia right now?

Dr Dechter points out that people had more spare time to develop and implement their ideas during lockdown, while also experiencing an acceleration in adoption of technology.

“In this way, it is meant an increase not just in the number of secondary jobs but also in small business creation. In addition, household savings increased substantially during lockdowns due to precautionary savings and limited spending opportunities. This, and the very low interest rates on loans, could have provided a start-up capital to those with a good business idea.”

“The willingness to work a few extra hours is also increasing due to higher uncertainty and cost-of-living.”

But while rising cost-of-living and opportunities emerging from the pandemic might have led to the rise of Australians taking up second jobs, Associate Professor Dale Boccabella, an expert in personal taxation at the School of Accounting, Auditing and Taxation, UNSW Business School points out that working a second job is nothing new.

“But there may be more opportunities these days to do this, as well as more convenience on choice of times to work the second job,” he adds.

So, is a side hustle simply a no-brainer way to see money hitting your bank account and making your financial goals? Or is it more of a drain than a good way to combat the rising cost of living? Dr Dechter and Assoc. Prof. Boccabella explain what you need to consider as well as the tax and economic implications. 

Is having a side hustle a good idea?   

Improving your personal finance situation through a side hustle can be rewarding step to take, says Dr Dechter: “At different career stages, some people may find themselves not fully satisfied with their job or occupation and want to try something different,” she says.  

“Slow entry into another occupation, or becoming self-employed, while keeping the current job allows people to learn about new opportunities and new skill sets while minimising risk of income loss.”  

But before you rush out to start a part-time job, it is important to recognise that making your side hustle ideas a reality comes with challenges, as well as the extra income. 

“There is more risk associated with business, as well as start-up costs,” warns Dr Dechter. “But there are also higher potential profits in the future.” 

Assoc. Prof. Boccabella also advises that before taking on commitments beyond your primary full-time job, it’s also wise to think over if taking on the extra work will suit your lifestyle and existing commitments. 

“Consider the amount of money received from the second job, as well as the costs associated with doing it, which should include input of time,” he says. 

“You should also think about the value of the time you spend away from family and friends, and the effect of doing the second job on your primary job.” 

I want to be a side hustler. Does it mean I’ll pay more tax? 

While claims that a good side hustle isn’t worth it because of over-taxation are often made, Assoc. Prof. Boccabella says it’s one without much merit in Australia. 

“At the end of the year, all your assessable incomes are added together, and all your deductions are added together. This adds up to your taxable income,” he explains.  

“If you’re employed, your employer must withhold some part of the wages payable and send it to the Australian Tax Office (ATO) as a tax contribution, in anticipation of the worker having a tax liability for the year.” 

It’s a process that applies to your first, second or even third job – meaning that if the payments to the tax office (also known as Pay-As-You-Go Withholding, or PAYGW) add up to more than the tax liability (AKA what you’re supposed to pay to the ATO), the taxpayer gets the excess back as a refund.  

“You can even apply to have the PAYGWs lowered from your second job during the year, if you think that the amounts withheld are going to lead to an excess above your tax liability,” Assoc. Prof. Boccabella adds.  

“This means you don’t have to wait for the tax return to be lodged to get back the ‘excess tax’ contributed on money made from your side hustle income or second job.” 

The gig economy: what has its impact been on the rise of side hustle? 

Gig economy businesses that use the ‘independent contractor’ model, such as food delivery services Uber, Doordash and Lyft, or freelance platforms like Upwork or Airtasker, have given individuals a seemingly easy pathway to have a side job. 

“Gig economy gives examples of new business models and teaches consumers how to use and enjoy such services,” says Dr Dechter. “It opens the door to new businesses which can build on this knowledge.” 

But as pointed out by Assoc. Prof. Boccabella, the relationship between the worker and party wanting work done has been fractious in recent times, with heated legal debate on workers’ rights and employer obligations. 

“Quite different pay rates can arise depending on whether the relationship between the worker and the party they are doing work for is an employment relationship or an independent contractor relationship,” he explains. 

“For example, the payer may be under an obligation to make superannuation contributions for the worker.” 

A gig economy side hustle can hit some legal roadblocks 

Assoc. Prof. Boccabella adds that the Fair Work Commission, the Administrative Appeals Tribunal and the Courts are currently filled with cases dealing with the classification of the relationship between a worker and the party they are working for. 

“There have been a number of high-profile cases concerning the delivery rider situation,” he says. “A significant number of entitlements and payments obligations depend on the proper classification.” 

“When the relationship breaks down (for example, the party does not want the worker’s services anymore), the worker often seeks legal advice, and the advice often is that the worker may in fact have been an employee or a deemed employee under particular legislation (such as the superannuation contributions regime).” 

“It’s an area of the law that is very complex and at times it is very hard to predict how a tribunal or court will decide the case.” 

Does more Australians having a second job mean we’re becoming more similar to the US? 

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of August 2022, 7,485,000 Americans have a second job. Commentators there have pointed to cost of living, inflation and a strong jobs market as some of the root causes.

When it comes to Australia, Dr Dechter points out that small low risk business or a second pay stream can deliver much needed extra income to a household. But she also adds that holding a second job might not be a good sign for the overall Australian economy. 

“In Australia, marginal tax rates increase more progressively than in the US, which implies that holding a second job is less profitable in Australia compared to there,” she explains. 

“This means that if we do observe more Australians taking more than one job and work more hours, it could suggest that the cost of living and economic insecurity have increased too much.” 

“But with Australia’s tax rate scale to become quite flatter for a large number of taxpayers in 2024 (due to a legislated 30% tax rate all the way from $45,000 to $200,000), the argument about lower profitability of a second job will weaken.”

Read the whole story at the UNSW Newsroom.

The country’s brightest and most ambitious Asian-Australians are being recognised in the 40 Under 40 Most Influential Asian-Australian Awards next week, while experts call out the negative impact of the ‘bamboo ceiling’ in Australia.

The Australian National University Centre for Asian-Australian Leadership founding director, Jieh-Yung Lo, says these awards have shined a light on the incredible leadership talent and potential of Asian-Australians – but there is still a long way to go.

“There is a lack of recognition of and focus on leveraging Asian-Australian talent. We need to call out and address the negative impacts created by the bamboo ceiling,” says Mr Lo.

“Nearly one in five people in Australia has an Asian cultural heritage, yet only about 3% of senior management positions are held by Asian-Australians.”

“The key barriers preventing Asian-Australian talent from reaching leadership roles within Australian organisations are cultural bias and stereotyping; westernised leadership models; lack of relationship capital such as access to mentors, sponsors and high-powered and influential networks, and the case for cultural diversity not understood within organisations and workplaces.”  

“A recurring concern expressed by many Asian-Australians is that they feel under constant pressure – more so than other non-Anglo or European Australians – to change their behaviour for the purpose of ‘fitting in’.”

“Asian-Australians have indicated from their personal and professional experiences significant levels of bias, discrimination and racism still existing against them in both work and non-work situations.”  

Research undertaken by Australian National University found 82% of surveyed Asian-Australians report they have experienced discrimination in Australia, which was the highest amongst all the self-identified ethnic groups in the study. 

Some 65% of the Asian-Australians reported being discriminated against in the workplace, while the most common setting for discrimination was at a shop or restaurant (71%). The survey showed that the most commonly barriers to Asian-Australians obtaining leadership positions in business, professional and other organisational roles cited by Asian-Australians themselves were ‘stereotypes associated with the group’ (42%) and discrimination (44%).  

40 Under 40 Most Influential Asian-Australian Awards applicants are judged across the fields of arts and culture, community and advocacy, corporate, education, entrepreneurship, legal and professions, media, public sector, science and medicine, and sport. This year’s winners include:

• Overall winner: Western Sydney Vietnamese-Australian lawyer Tu Le, last year went for ALP preselection in the safe seat of Fowler, a largely Vietnamese and culturally diverse electorate, against Kristina Keneally. Tu’s parents were separated for almost a decade after her father spent years in Australia learning and educating himself, before sponsoring his family and bringing them here. She has also facilitated a program for men from minority communities and advocated against the exploitation of temporary visa and migrant workers.

•  Science and medicine winner: Associate Professor Rona Chandrawati moved to Australia after completing high school in Indonesia. She faced the hardship of transitioning into a new culture and learning a new language, but has gone on to become Australia’s leading researcher in colorimetric food sensory technology, with her patented colour sensors attached to food packaging to help prevent spoilage. This is critical considering 7.6 million tonnes of food is lost or wasted every year in Australia alone, even worse with 70% of this food being perfectly edible and one in six Australian adults not having enough to eat in the last year, according to the not for profit organisation, Foodbank.

• Entrepreneurship winner: Leading property and construction professional, and the granddaughter of Hong Kong social housing residents, Belinda Bentley is co-founder and director of independent property investment and advisory group 9Springs. She is also the Australian representative to the ULI Asia Pacific Housing Council; a best practice think tank focused on alternative housing methods and housing affordability. Her contribution to the community has seen her play a key role at a mental health organisation, become a guest lecturer and tutor to students at the University of Technology and mentor others to help grow their businesses.

• Arts and culture winner: The youngest daughter of immigrant parents from Hong Kong and Malaysia, Michelle Law’s latest play, ‘Top Coast’, was commissioned by the Sydney Theatre Company and premiered in July-August. Her latest comedy explores race, representation, privilege and taking woke culture to task. She is also the playwright and creator of Belvoir’s ‘Single Asian Female’ and SBS’s ‘Homecoming Queens’. 

• Under 25 rising star: Angelina Inthavong who has a Cambodian, Lao, Vietnamese and Chinese background and comes from a single income house already has a formidable career in youth politics championing ‘period poverty’ and mental health issues. As a member of the Queensland Youth Parliament, she championed a bill which was passed in May, that all state schools in QLD would provide menstrual products.

Of the awards, Asialink CEO Martine Letts says: “An Asia-capable and connected Australia is fundamental to Australia’s future. The 40 under 40 Awards are unique as they highlight for the first time the key contribution talented Asian-Australians make in all productive sectors of our community – in the arts, research and education, media, sport, business and public life.”

Philanthropic patron and Executive Wealth Circle chair Susan Gin, adds: “I am delighted to be supporting this unique initiative which recognises the extraordinary contributions talented Asian-Australian leaders are making to the Australian community.”

The 40 Under 40 Most Influential Asian-Australian Awards, now in its fourth year, is an initiative of the Australian National University Centre for Asian-Australian Leadership, Asialink at the University of Melbourne and Johnson Partners.  

The full list of the 40 awardees will be announced at a gala dinner in Sydney on October 4. 

Swann, a leader in Do-It-Yourself security products for over thirty five years, has launched the new AllSecure650 ™ 2K Wireless Security Kits in Australia, adding to its award-winning product line-up of smart home and business security solutions. The launch of Swann’s first Wi-Fi NVR camera systems with 100% wire-free long-life rechargeable battery cameras, represents a revolution in adaptable yet simple security monitoring and recording, providing seamless 24/7 security for everyday home consumers. 

Leading battery power & swap-ability for 24/7 security

The AllSecure650™ Security Kit contains up to four wire-free cameras with secure mounts, blending the reliability of a wired setup and ease of wireless, setting up in minutes not hours, to make for the perfect hybrid CCTV system. 

It also comes with a powerful Wi-Fi NVR Power Hub, which can store up to two years of footage to its local 1TB hard drive and backup clips to the cloud. There’s a charging bay at the rear of the power hub for easy recharging and a spare battery is included so that you can always have a charged battery ready to swap in and out. So, unlike other wireless systems, there’s never any security down time while waiting for a camera to charge.

Not only that, but the spare battery in the Power Hub can act as a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) providing an additional 5 hours of power to the hub in the event of a power outage. The Power Hub also stitches video activity clips together for fast and easy playback.

HD Video and motion detectors for extra clarity and confidence

Swann continues to provide security cameras with high-definition video quality as shown with the AllSecure650™ wire-free cameras. The wire-free camera features include 105° wide viewing angle with 2K Quad HD resolution, True Detect™ heat & motion detection, sensor spotlights & sirens, person detection,  2-way audio, loud sirens, and powerful night vision up to 30m and Night2Day™ colour night vision up to 10m. IP66 weatherproof design rating on the cameras also makes the kit a durable option for users looking for a flexible in/out home security package all year round.

The Swann Security app sends smart notifications to users’ smartphones when True Detect™ senses heat from large objects like people and cars, for more reliable monitoring and fewer false alarms. The app features a digital zoom, allowing users to see footage such as number plates and faces in more clarity.

Accessible and connected playback for all users

The AllSecure650 Security Kit cameras are SwannNet™ enabled to ensure the strongest available Wi-Fi connection for each camera from the Wi-Fi NVR or internet router. Users can watch live or playback video on their smartphone, from anywhere in the world with the Swann Security App.

Swann users can also view any of the cameras on their smart TV, and speak to see hands-free via Hey Google and Alexa devices. For users looking for an offline option, footage is also accessible locally on TV or monitor via HDMI cable and can record video without the need for the internet. The AllSecure650 system is a perfect addition to your existing Swann devices making your perfect security ecosystem even better. 

“We’re extremely proud to launch the AllSecure650™ 2K Wireless Security Kit, a revolutionary step in seamless, reliable, 24/7 security for Australia,” says Mike Lucas, CEO of Swann Security. “By blending the technologies of the secure NVR security systems with the convenience of our Wi-Fi systems, this makes the AllSecure650™ 2K Wireless Security Kit a fantastic option for users looking for peace of mind, security with a camera that delivers smart features and a reliable and seamless security set up for their home.”

AllSecure650 Pricing and Availability:

The Swann AllSecure650™ 2K Wireless Security Kit is available for purchase exclusively on Swann.com and at leading retailers such as Harvey Norman, JB Hi-Fi, The Good Guys and Amazon. The 3-camera unit retails at $949.95 AUD and the 4-camera unit retails at $1,099.95 AUD.

Allowing users to take home printing to the next level, leading printer manufacturer Brother International Australia has today announced the launch of the INKvestment Smart Home range.

Combining high-quality printing with innovative mobile technology, affordability, and exceptional value, the two new inkjet printers are the perfect fit for any home office.

With the rising cost of living, Australian households are more cost-conscious than ever, especially those working from home. To keep operating costs to a minimum, the DCP-J1200W XL comes with up to two years of ink in-box1, and the DCP-J1200W with up to one year of ink in-box1, providing customers with premium ink and exceptional value.

Pricing for the range also starts at just $199 for the DCP-J1200W, providing a feature-rich printing solution without breaking the bank.

Designed for the modern home office, both printers in the new range offer a compact form to easily fit into any workspace. The INKvestment Smart Home range also provides the flexibility required for hybrid work utilising Brother’s user-friendly Mobile Connect App. With the entire printing experience driven from the app, you can print from anywhere at any time, store and retrieve scanned documents, and monitor ink usage from your phone.

Users can also stay productive with print speeds of up to 16ppm and a paper tray with a capacity of up to 150 sheets to print more copies, quicker, and without interruption. Free product support for the lifetime of the product also helps users be confident that Brother will remain at your side.

On the new range, Stephanie Halbisch, Marketing Specialist at Brother International Australia, said: “We are extremely excited to release the INKvestment Smart Home range given the rate at which our day-to-day lives have changed over the past year.

“Flexible working arrangements mean that the need to have access to quick, reliable print technology has never been higher. These innovative machines and the Brother Mobile Connect App have been designed to meet this need, making printing, and scanning quick and easy. Affordable to run and simple to manage, these printers will easily fit into the lifestyle of our customers.”
 

Key features of the Brother INKvestment Smart Home range include:

Upfront affordability and low operating costs: The INKvestment Smart Home range gives you the best of both worlds – affordability and exceptional value! The high-yield ink cartridges supplied in-box means you don’t have to worry about replacing ink cartridges for up to 2 years¹, delivering uninterrupted printing so you can focus on what’s important.

• Simple to use with your smart device: The power of printing is now at your fingertips with Brother’s latest app. The Brother Mobile Connect App allows you to manage your printing and scanning more effectively, superseding the need for a touchscreen.

• The perfect fit for home printing: With print speeds up to 16ppm, easy wireless connectivity options and AirPrint² compatibility, printing and scanning is convenient and simple – anyone can use it!

• No mess, no fuss INKvestment Technology: Unlike other tank systems, there is no need to stop and refill your ink tanks, which can be a fiddly and messy process. Let our INKvestment cartridges do the work for you!

• Print with confidence using the Page Gauge: Keep tabs on your ink usage with the Page Gauge feature on the Brother Mobile Connect App. The app gives you a visual and numeric representation of the ink you’re using, so you’ll always know in advance when it’s time to replace your cartridges.

• Sleek and modern design: Sleek, compact design means that both printers in the range can fit easily into any home or workspace – and look good too!

 
INKvestment product overview:

DCP-J1200W
Available: October 2022
RRP: $199
Retailers: Exclusive to Officeworks
Product features:

• Up to 1 year of ink in-box¹ (BK: Up to 1,500 pages, C/M/Y: Up to 1,400 pages)
• Print speeds up to 16ppm black and 9ppm in colour
• Up to 150-sheet paper capacity
• A4 print, scan and copy
• Use the Mobile Connect App to manage your printer more effectively and customise its functionality
• Monitor ink usage with Page Gauge
• Wireless, Wi-Fi Direct^®, AirPrint² and USB connectivity

 
DCP-J1200W XL
Available: October 2022
RRP: $329
Retailers: Harvey Norman, Joyce Mayne, Domayne, Amazon
Product features:

• Up to 2 years of ink in-box¹ (BK: Up to 2,500 pages, C/M/Y: Up to 2,000 pages)
• Print speeds up to 16ppm black and 9ppm in colour
• Up to 150-sheet paper capacity
• A4 print, scan and copy
• Use the Mobile Connect App to manage your printer more effectively and customise its functionality
• Monitor ink usage with Page Gauge
• Wireless, Wi-Fi Direct^®, AirPrint² and USB connectivity

Amazon Web Services today launched a content marketing campaign called Prove What’s Possible, which recognises the innovative spirit, tenacity, and resilience of Australia’s technology-driven startups. Featuring two new online video series, ‘Found to Founded’ and ‘Billion Dollar Napkin,’ the campaign aims to inspire the nation’s future founders to pursue their big ideas with the power of cloud technology.

The Prove What’s Possible campaign shines a light on founders who are leveraging AWS to drive industry transformation, positively impact their communities, and build a better world for the future. From machine learning-powered 3D mind maps that revolutionise neurosurgery, to an NFT-based game built on the Ethereum blockchain, to a homegrown cryptocurrency platform making it easier to trade and invest, the Australian businesses featured demonstrate that even though it is challenging to launch and grow a successful startup, with a big idea and the right support, it is possible.

The campaign launched today across digital, social, and podcast platforms. It follows the recent national AWS Australia brand campaign, Curiosity Kid, and is part of AWS’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness of how Australian businesses can grow and innovate by harnessing the power of cloud technology.

“Through the Prove What’s Possible campaign, we’re celebrating the innovation, passion, and resilience inherent in Australia’s startup ecosystem, showcasing founders from a broad cross-section of backgrounds and industries who are brave and bold enough to find new solutions to some of society’s biggest challenges,” said John Kearney, Head of Startups, Australia and New Zealand, AWS. “Launching and growing a startup is not an easy journey – founders dig deep within themselves to find the courage to solve problems that have never been solved before, and spot possibilities where many others see limitations. This pioneering spirit is what inspires us at AWS, too – that’s why, for over 15 years, we’ve helped more startups launch, build, and succeed than any other cloud provider, offering the technology tools, mentorship, and technical support to enable startup founders to bring their ambitious, world-changing ideas to life, and prove what’s possible.”

The ‘Billion Dollar Napkin’ Vodcast and Podcast series

‘Billion Dollar Napkin,’ a filmed podcast series consisting of six 30-minute episodes, features in-depth interviews with startup founders who discuss the trials and tribulations they faced from ideation, to launch, to scale, as well as their startup’s growth journey powered by AWS.

Hosted by Australian television and radio personality, Adam Spencer, ‘Billion Dollar Napkin’ aims to reveal the personal and often unseen side of a startup’s success story. Throughout the series, Spencer digs into what makes founders tick.

“The thing you realise throughout the course of this series is that while many entrepreneurs-in-the-making have a billion-dollar idea, so few will actually go through with it,” said Spencer. “These are the founders that have taken that leap of faith, separating them from the rest. It was a blast to get to pick their brains about how they risked everything to fully commit to their idea, and the success they’ve enjoyed as a result.”

The first episode of ‘Billion Dollar Napkin’ features the founders of crypto exchange Swyftx, and is available now on major podcast platforms.Subsequent episodes will be released fortnightly, featuring the founders of other prominent Australian startups, including mobile menu, ordering, and payments platform Mr Yum; social media community and conversation management tool Pattr; workforce intelligence platform Reejig; digital brain mapping company Omniscient Neurotechnology; and open-world, NFT gaming platform Illuvium.

“Every founder knows the unique mix of exhilaration and fear that comes with taking the plunge and launching a startup – it’s the feeling that accompanies the decision to back yourself and your idea and really go for it. While it can be one of the biggest risks of your life, what makes it easier is knowing that you’re not alone on the journey. Startup life can be a wild ride of wins and losses, and it’s critical to surround yourself with the right allies,” said Alex Harper, Co-CEO & Founder of Brisbane-based fintech, Swyftx. “In our case, we’ve benefitted from support and guidance from AWS, which has helped us turn our business idea into a reality. We’ve shared our story on ‘Billion Dollar Napkin’ to help inspire a new generation of startup founders by showing them what’s possible when you have a big idea, even bigger ambitions, and the right technology behind you.”

“15 years ago, it wouldn’t have been conceivable for someone like me, with no IT background or expertise, to launch and grow a tech company that is now recognized as one of the fastest growing startups in Australia. It takes game-changing technology, dedication, determination, and a supportive network to get to where we are today,” said Siobhan Savage, CEO and Co-founder of Sydney-based workforce intelligence platform, Reejig. “Our mission is to create a world with Zero Wasted Potential in people, business, and society; where everyone has access to personally meaningful work, no matter their background or circumstance. As a result of sharing Reejig’s journey through AWS’s Prove What’s Possible campaign, my hope is that our story resonates with future founders, helps unlock the potential in Australia’s startup ecosystem and across the business landscape, and serves as a reminder to chase your ideas.”

The ‘Found to Founded’ content series

‘Found to Founded’ is a short-form video web series that takes a look at the universal ‘lightbulb moment’ experienced by all founders, kickstarting the journey from spotting a problem, to identifying a solution, through to founding a startup.

The three-part video series features solar energy finance provider Brighte, drone logistics company Swoop Aero, and legal access startup Law on Earth. The series documents each founder’s success story including the highs and lows along the way to proving their idea possible. The short films all launch today, and are available to watch on the Prove What’s Possible site.

Following the launch of the AWS Asia Pacific (Sydney) Region in 2012, AWS has invested more than AUD $8 billion in local infrastructure and jobs across Australia. AWS has also trained more than 200,000 individuals with cloud skills since 2017, and employs thousands of people in its offices across Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, and Perth.

For more information about how startups are proving what’s possible on AWS, and to access all related content.

Sony has announced the newest addition to the brand’s prestigious Cinema Line – the Sony FX30 (model ILME-FX30). The new FX30 is a 4K Super 35 compact cinema camera that offers many professional features of the Cinema Line, such as Dual Base ISO, Log shooting modes, and user-imported LUTs (Look Up Tables) at a price point that appeals to many aspiring filmmakers.

In addition to introducing the new FX30, Sony announced two new CFexpress Type A Memory Cards – CEA-G320T and CEA-G640T. Both are large capacity cards that support high-speed performance with high-speed performance in both reading and writing.

“The launch of the FX30 introduces an exciting new entry point into our Cinema Line range of cameras,” said Jun Yoon, Head of Digital Imaging ANZ. “Whether it is your first dedicated video capture device, or it acts as a subsidiary cam, the FX30 can deliver professional high-end content that will seamlessly fit into your Cinema Line workflow.”

Creating a Cinematic Look

The FX30 offers up-and-coming filmmakers’ cinematic expression with the latest imaging systems. It features a new back-illuminated APS-C Exmor R™ CMOS sensor (Super 35 format) with a dual base ISO (800/2500) to deliver high sensitivity, low noise, and 14+ stops of latitude.

The FX30 supports a variety of video recording codecs. It can shoot 4K Super 35 (16:9) by oversampling from 6K at up to 60fps. The FX30 also features the ability to shoot in high frame rates, including 4K at 120fps and full HD at 240fps. Both 16:9 recording modes can shoot at 10-bit 4:2:2 while an HDMI Type-A connector can be used to output 4K, 16-bit RAW to an external recorder.

Like the rest of the Cinema Line, the FX30 features Log shooting modes by enabling Cine El, Cine El Quick, and Flexible ISO modes for recording with the S-Log3 gamma curve, which allows more flexibility when colour grading. All three modes allow video shooting while monitoring with an appropriate LUT to preview the final image. In addition, the FX30 includes a selection of built-in cinematic looks, such as Sony’s S-Cinetone™. The camera offers advanced image processing capabilities with the BIONZ XR processing engine for natural gradations and realistic colour reproduction.

Designed to Support the Creators’ Needs

The FX30 features Sony’s fast and reliable autofocus, with settings including:

• Real-time Eye AF (human, animal, or bird^[iv])
• Real-time Tracking
• Detailed AF settings
• AF Assist^[v]

Creatives also have more control when using the Focus Map, which makes it easy to visualise depth of field, and Breathing Compensation offers a stable angle of view when focusing. The camera also includes effective stabilisation for run and gun shoots using Active Mode thanks to the optical in-body 5-axis image stabilisation and time code sync.

The FX30 incorporates other features that retain the spirit of the Cinema Line, including:

• New customisable list-style main menu screen which provides quick access to frequently used items 
• New standby movie screen that provides an unobstructed view of the subject
• Buttons and dials dedicated to movie shooting

The FX30 also includes added functionality to assist with the creative workflow, such as post-production editing using embedded LUT, and EI metadata. This metadata is available using the latest version of Sony’s Catalyst Prepare or Catalyst Browse applications. A new “Catalyst Prepare Plugin” for Adobe Premiere Pro was released in August.

Easy Operation and a Compact Form Factor

Compact and lightweight, the FX30 has a flat-top design with threaded accessory attachment points, making it easy to use for shooting handheld, capturing low-angle shots, mounting on a gimbal, or adding accessories. The FX30 also features an XLR handle unit^[xii], which can be used to capture low-angle shots and also allows filmmakers to capture crystal clear audio through various audio inputs, including two XLR audio inputs and a 3.5 mm stereo mini jack for 4-channel recording. External microphones can be connected directly to the camera via the Multi Interface Shoe or microphone jack. The FX30 also features an internal stereo microphone for audio recording.

The FX30 is equipped with two memory card slots that are compatible with both CFexpress Type A cards and SDXC/SDHC cards, bringing wide range of shooting experiences to creators. The FX30 is also compatible with the newly announced large capacity CFexpress Type A memory cards.

The FX30 offers not only advanced performance but also outstanding reliability. It features an innovative heat dissipation structure for uninterrupted 4K/60p recording, reliable power for extended recording, and a durable magnesium alloy chassis. A comprehensive selection of E-mount lenses, high-performance microphones, and other essential components gives creators extraordinarily flexible systems for a broad range of creative needs.

Sony Future Filmmaker Awards

The new FX30 is an ideal choice for filmmakers that are actively working on or considering an entry into the Sony Future Filmmaker Awards, a major new annual awards program for short films.  Sponsored by Sony and free to enter, the Awards set out to elevate original voices from around the globe with a fresh perspective on storytelling.  For more information, please visit: www.sonyfuturefilmmakerawards.com/ 

Price and availability

The new FX30 and FX30B will be available in Australia from late October 2022. 

FX30 (ILME-FX30 – Camera body with top handle) SRP: $3,699.00

FX30B (ILME-FX30B – Camera body only) SRP: $2,999.00

The FX30 enables ultimate creative freedom and comes with an option to purchase with or without the XLR handle.^[xiv]

A product video on the new FX30 can be viewed here.

The FX30 will also be compatible with the new version of Camera Remote SDK (Version 1.06), a development kit for software that enables remote operation and configuration changes.

CFexpress Type A Memory Cards: CEA-G320T and CEA-G640T

The compact and high-performance CFexpress Type A memory card CEA-G320T will be available in October, while the CFexpress Type A memory card CEA-G640T^[xv] will be available in December in selected countries in Asia Pacific. In addition to the existing 80GB and 160GB cards, large capacity 320GB and 640GB cards will be added to the series.

These large capacity cards support high-speed performance with a maximum writing speed of up to 700MB/s and Video Performance Guarantee “VPG400”, which offers sustained writing speeds of up to 400MB/s and enables 4K 120p high bit rate video shooting.

The new large capacity cards have achieved TOUGH specification, which means they have been certified to be waterproof, dustproof, (IP57) and robust enough to support stable long-term shooting in various environment.

Price

CF Express Type A 320GB SRP: $1,299.00

CF Express Type A 640GB SRP $2,499

Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new FX30 and Sony’s other imaging products can be found here.

Logitech MX for Mac is a “Designed for Mac” collection of keyboards and mice, unleashing better control and productivity.

Logitech announced a new “Designed for Mac” collection of products, crafted to be seamlessly compatible and reliable with Mac setups across a variety of use cases. The new collection includes the MX Mechanical Mini for Mac keyboard, MX Master 3S for Mac mouse and Lift for Mac mouse. “We know that Apple users value a consistent design aesthetic for their entire setup — work or home — and that they need mice and keyboards that work across their ecosystems,” said Delphine Donné, vice president and general manager of Creativity and Productivity at Logitech. “We’ve created a suite of stylish tools that elevates how you work by adding more functionality, customisation and comfort. And because we know that one size doesn’t fit all, this collection was designed, developed and engineered to meet the diverse needs of Apple users.”

MX Mechanical Mini for Mac Keyboard

Logitech’s’s first mechanical keyboard optimised for Mac, available in Space Grey and Pale Grey, features a keyboard layout for Mac with the ability to customise shortcuts and accelerate creativity with Logi Options+. MX Mechanical Mini for Mac features Tactile Quiet low-profile switches and Smart Backlighting, to stay in the flow in any light conditions. Connect up to three different Apple devices for macOS, iPadOS or iOS with Easy-Switch and charge the keyboard with a USB-C cable while working.

MX Master 3S for Mac Mouse

An icon remastered for advanced Mac users, the MX Master 3S for Mac mouse, available in Space Grey and Pale Grey, combines what you love already with new features for ultimate comfort, performance and work flow. With the MagSpeed Electromagnetic wheel, zip through 1,000 lines per second, and set the DPI between 1,000 and 8,000 for precise work on either one or multiple high resolution monitors. MX Master 3S for Mac features Quiet Clicks, tracks on glass, quickly recharges with the USB-C cable while in use and can connect up to three different Apple devices on macOS and iPadOS with Easy-Switch.

Lift for Mac Mouse

Crafted for day-long comfort, Lift for Mac is a vertical ergonomic mouse ideal for people with small to medium-sized hands. Developed and tested in the Logitech Ergo Lab, the 57° angle of Lift for Mac places your hand in a natural handshake position. This puts less pressure on the wrist throughout the day and places your arm and upper body in a more natural posture.

Logitech’s Sustainability Approach

Logitech products, including “Designed for Mac” products, are designed to not only deliver exceptional user experiences but do so with an understanding of environmental and social impact. The plastic parts in MX for Mac and Lift for Mac products include certified post-consumer recycled plastic to give a second life to end-of-life plastic from old consumer electronics.

• 47% for MX Mechanical Mini for Mac Space Grey
• 36% for MX Mechanical Mini for Mac Pale Grey
• 27% for MX Master 3S for Mac Space Grey
• 22% for MX Master 3S for Mac Pale Grey
• 54% for Lift for Mac

All Logitech products are certified carbon neutral. We reduce the net carbon impact of Logitech products by designing for sustainability and using renewable energy where possible. We also compensate our residual impact by purchasing high-quality, certified offsets from forestry, renewables, and climate-impacted communities.

Pricing and Availability

Available in September 2022 on logitech.com and at selected retailers, the suggested retail prices are:

• MX Mechanical Mini for Mac: $229.95
• MX Master 3S for Mac: $169.95

Lift for Mac: $129.95

Reviews of the PC version of the keyboard and mouse are available.