Struggling automaker GM Holden on Wednesday announced it will shut down its operations in Australia by 2017 in a major blow to th nation's car industry. Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss told parliament the company had informed him of the decision, made in Detroit. "We regret the fact that GM is to phase down its operations in this country. Holden has been an iconic national brand for Australians, it is part of our heritage," he said.