Latest Headlines

Record building approvals in 2013-14 have resulted in an all-time high of dwelling commencements in Perth, but the latest data show housing construction may have hit the peak of the cycle.

Online payday lender Loan Ranger is negotiating with one of the US's biggest online lenders to launch a business finance service early next year.

Subiaco-based graphite player Kibaran Resources has achieved some preliminary success in developing a process to convert the carbon-based mineral into graphene.

Qantas is upgrading its Perth Airport facilities to align with Australia's other major airports, kicking off construction of a new domestic business lounge.

Former Western Australian chief justice David Kingsley Malcolm achieved a lot during his 18 years in the role, and will be remembered as a kind and patient man by those who knew him.

Business leader Kerry Stokes says the Western Australian economy is heading for its toughest period in two decades, but expects the state will resume healthy growth within a couple of years.

Against expectations, the nickel sector appears set for a rebound in 2015.

Two major national contractors are embroiled in takeovers, with Tenix Holdings on the receiving end of a $300 million bid by Downer EDI, and Transfield Services revealling it has received a $1 billion takeover bid from a Spanish building giant.

The share market has closed firmer for a fifth consecutive session as concerns about global economic growth appear to fade.

Perth-based online education services provider iCollege has entered into a binding heads of agreement to fully acquire Dynamic Learning Services for $4 million.

A program aimed at disadvantaged youth is at risk of being lost.

After losing a $500,000 development grant, a local entrepreneur has launched another app instead.

Iron ore production shows no sign of slowing, but getting the ore on the water may be more problematic.

It's the big deal nobody knows anything about.

Some farmers will have to take a hit for the nation if proposed plans to build more dams are approved, Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce says.

Three senior Western Australian mining executives have been named among 16 recipients of Chief Executive Women's $250,000 scholarship program.

Two Chinese companies suing federal MP Clive Palmer have a genuine dispute against him, a judge says.

Two long-term Perth franchises are hoping to embrace opportunities in WA's changing economy.

Small businesses have developed unique incentives to win staff over larger competition.

The small business sector has had some significant wins of late. Our 4-page special report analyses the issues facing small business, profiles two franchise groups expanding in WA and looks at unique incentive programs for staff.

Shares in Perth-based gold explorer Talisman Mining have surged more than 70 per cent after the company announced it had entered into a binding agreement for Swiss-based Glencore's Sinclair nickel project in the Goldfields for $10 million.

New South Wales has knocked off Western Australia as the country's strongest economy, as the glow of the mining investment boom continues to fade.

Shares are more than one per cent firmer as Australian investors shrug off concerns about slowing global growth.

Shares in mining services business Ausdrill have slumped to a five-year low after its second profit warning in just two months.

The federal government hopes to raise up to $5.5 billion from the sale of Medibank Private.

US shares have surged after a strong rise in Europe's equity markets, with investor zeal returning following a sell-off earlier in the week.

Gold prices have fallen as a relief rally in US equities saps investor appetite for haven assets like precious metals.

The Australian dollar is slightly higher as global stock markets stabilise after last week's heavy falls.

Hospitality entrepreneur has high hopes for the industry in Perth, after receiving 70 per cent of its new restaurant crowdfunding target in the first month.

Two Perth event planners have taken rejection in their stride, launching one and planning another urban recreation event to enliven the city at their own expense.

A Perth secondary school will cut its tuition fees by up to 30 per cent when it moves to the CBD.

Fremantle-based Mermaid Marine Australia will seek to change its name at the company's AGM next month, following acquisition of all Singaporean listed Jaya Holdings' subsidiaries in June.