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Opinion. Comments on five Australian executives' strategies to remain in competition. Rupert Murdoch's linking of telephone networks with his information/entertainment services; Kerry Packer's decision to focus on his Nine Network; Richard Pratt's expansion of his paper company; Frank Lowy's introduction of entertainment in his shopping centers; David Hains' operation of an investment portfolio.

The article reports that executives in "BRW" magazines' Fast 100 companies pointed to innovation as what they desire from Australia's coalition government. Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale (EFTPOS) company Tyro executive Jost Strollmann said that competition for government procurements can entice competition, which leads to innovation. Suggestions on how to foster innovation include research and development tax breaks, help for technology start-up firms and faster broadband.

The article reports that Harvey Norman has launched an attack against office supplies leader Officeworks in Australia with the introduction of its OFIS national stationery chain. The decision to compete in the market dominated by Coles Group's Officeworks followed a decision by Gerry Harvey, the Harvey Norman managing director, not to continue the plan to acquire Officeworks because the asking price was too high.