Apple a trillion-dollar company
Apple has become the first publicly listed company to reach the $US1 trillion mark on the US stock exchange. After recording $US11.5bn profit for the previous quarter and a 17% increase in sales, shares in the technology company hit $207.05 on Thursday. Popularity amongst some of Apple’s second-string products like the Apple Watch and AirPods earphones are believed to have driven recent success. The milestone means that Apple’s share price has grown four-fold since Tim Cook took over as CEO in 2011.
E-boarding passes for international flights
Airlines can now issue electronic boarding passes for international flights departing Australian shores. The decision, which is effective as of Monday, is part of a wider bid to make international travel more efficient for the 21.4 million passengers that leave Australia each year. “We are always looking for ways to clear legitimate travellers efficiently and seek out those of interest to law enforcement,” Minister for citizenship and multicultural affairs Alan Tudge said. “This change will cut out the need to visit the check-in desk to show your passport and collect your paper boarding pass.” The new boarding pass rules will combine with initiatives such as SmartGates to help get travelers through the airport faster.
Cyber in schools
Australian school students will soon be getting an education in cyber security, after the government announced a $600,000 injection into teacher training in the field. The initiative, which is part of the government’s investment into AustCyber, will better equip high school teachers to teach digital security. “The Turnbull Government is ensuring Australians are skilled and Australian businesses are well-positioned to take advantage of the burgeoning global cyber security market, with its $30.5 million investment in AustCyber,” said Minister for jobs and innovation, Michaelia Cash. The project directly addresses the Digital Technologies stream in the Australian curriculum.
Leadership development grants for women in ICT
Women & Leadership Australia is encouraging women in the ICT industry to participate in leadership development programs with the launch of a new grants scheme. Grants between $3,000 and $8,000 are available to women working within the ICT sector to enable participation in a number of part-time courses. Expressions of interest are being sourced until 7 September. To enquire, click here.
