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Positive leads have pushed the Australian share market 0.3 per cent higher at noon. The benchmark again edged closer to the key 6,000 mark at open but has since given up some gains. The energy sector is leading the local bourse’s gains while the miners are the only sector trading in the red. 

 

Figures

 

The S&P/ASX 200 index has risen 15 points to 5,984. On the futures market the SPI is 23 points higher. 

 

Company news

 

Origin Energy Limited (ASX:ORG) has alerted its customers to potential scam calls from people claiming to be from the company. The energy giant says callers have been demanding payments and threatening to disconnect power if the payment is not made immediately. Origin advises to hang up immediately if you receive a suspicious call and lodge suspected scams with the Federal Government's Scam Watch. Shares in Origin Energy have gained 0.67 per cent and are trading at $12.06. 

 

Sydney Airport Holdings Limited (ASX:SYD) has welcomed the Federal Government’s introduction of three-year, multiple entry tourist visas for Chinese visitors to Australia. The owner of Sydney airport says the move will support the recent government announcement of increased air rights between Australia and China. Shares in Sydney Airport Holdings have gained 0.28 per cent and are trading at $5.40. 

 

Best and worst performers

 

The best performing sector is energy, gaining 1.1 per cent to 11,379. Shares in Karoon Gas Australia Limited (ASX:KAR) have risen 5.83 per cent and trading at $2.54. Shares in Santos Limited (ASX:STO) and Oil Search Limited (ASX:OSH) are also stronger. 

 

The worst performing sector is materials, falling 0.6 per cent to 9,090. Shares in Iluka Resources Limited (ASX:ILU) have fallen 3.52 per cent, trading at $8.49. Shares in Arrium Limited (ASX:ARI) and Incitec Pivot Limited (ASX:IPL) are also lower. 

 

Gold and the dollar

 

Gold is buying $US1,209 an ounce. 

The Australian dollar is buying $US0.7662.