New South Wales’ (NSW) Labor government has released its budget for the 2023-24 financial year, forecasting a deficit of A$7.8 billion (US$5bn) for the period, with the budget expected to return to a surplus of A$844 million in the 2024-25 financial year.
South China Sea: Philippines slams Beijing’s fishermen-blocking ‘floating barrier’ in Scarborough Shoal
The Philippine coastguard said the blockade was ‘depriving locals of their fishing and livelihood activities’.
Malaysian police investigate after spycam found in newlywed Chinese couple’s Airbnb room
The device was installed inside a wall power socket in a room of a lodging establishment in Sabah.
Vietnam executes man despite diplomatic pleas for mercy: ‘sickening’, Amnesty says
In 2005 Le Van Manh was charged with the rape and murder of a 13-year-old girl, but the International Commission of Jurists said police obtained a confession through torture that was relied upon to convict him.
Thailand’s opposition Move Forward Party names new leader amid ‘temporary restructuring’
Chaithawat Tulathon, a former political magazine editor, will head the progressive party after Pita Limjaroenrat stepped down earlier this month.
Court of Appeal reinforces strict six-week planning challenge time limit
The Court of Appeal has refused to extend the six-week statutory time limit for challenging a planning inspector’s decision, in a case where the individual had been prevented from filing on the day of the deadline.
Birmingham City Council finances highlight implications of local authority ‘section 114’ report
News that the UK government is set to intervene in the financial problems at Birmingham City Council has again focused attention on the statutory provisions that apply where a local authority in England finds itself in severe financial straits.
Singapore jails man who blackmailed Grindr partners for cash, TV set with threats of sex video leak
While being arrested last year, he bit a police officer on his leg and drew blood, saying the officer deserved to be bitten.
Malaysia’s Johor sultan backs plans for economic zone, solar energy sales between state and Singapore
The plan, currently under negotiation by the two national governments, could also see Johor sell solar energy to Singapore.
Australian High Court: Qantas unlawfully interfered with employees’ future rights
The High Court of Australia has dismissed an appeal from Qantas against Federal Court decisions that it took unlawful adverse action by deciding to outsource its ground handling operations.