Australian businesses are forecast to spend less money as the year moves on, with manufacturers leading the trend, a new survey has found.

CMI Fuel Systems, a key supplier to Ford and Holden, has moved into voluntary administration.

Engineers from the University of New South Wales have developed a new way to improve the quality of low-grade silicon, paving the way for cheaper and more efficient solar panels.

Building products maker Boral has cut its earnings forecast for 2013 by $15 million, blaming poor weather, declining construction activity, and overseas competition for the downgrade.

Boeing Research & Technology Australia has opened a new research and development lab at Port Melbourne, with the operation representing the company’s largest research presence outside the US.