Western Australia

Canadian miner OceanaGold agreed to buy Australian firm Ausgold for A$776 million ($553M), gaining control of the Katanning gold project in Western Australia. The deal, offering a 27.7% premium, is unanimously recommended by Ausgold’s board and supported by major shareholder Dundee. Katanning is expected to produce over 100,000 oz. annually from 2029, filling a production gap for OceanaGold. The transaction, driven by record gold prices near $4,399/oz, requires shareholder and regulatory approvals and is expected to close by December 2026.

7 reports · 2 sources · Updated Aug 26, 07:34 PM UTC

Capricorn Metals Ltd released three significant updates to the ASX, including an increase in total gold reserves to 5.2 million ounces across its Karlawinda and Mount Gibson projects in Western Australia. The company also released an updated pre-feasibility study (PFS) for Mount Gibson, outlining a development plan that allows the underground mine to commence alongside the open pit operation. This is expected to ramp up forecast gold production. CEO Mark Clark described the updates as marking an inflection point for the company over the next five years, emphasizing low-cost, low-complexity operations that position Capricorn to deliver long-term shareholder value.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 03:53 PM UTC

The Australian government has selected Leidos Gibbs and Cox Australia to lead the preliminary design of a floating dry dock to support the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine program. The contingency dry dock will be established in Western Australia, bridging the gap until permanent graving docks are built at the Henderson Defence Precinct. This capability is a critical precondition for Australia receiving its first Virginia-class submarine from the United States and will enable critical repairs and maintenance from the early 2030s, ahead of depot-level maintenance from the late 2030s. The project is part of the Albanese Government's broader $12 billion investment in the Henderson Defence Precinct, expected to support 10,000 direct jobs over two decades. The floating dock's mobility also offers potential flexibility for maintenance at other Australian locations. Leidos Gibbs and Cox has a six-decade history of design support for the Royal Australian Navy, including the Perth-class frigates and Hunter-class destroyers.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 07:10 AM UTC

The Australian government has selected Leidos Gibbs and Cox Australia to design a floating dry dock for the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine program. The dock will be established in Western Australia to provide contingency maintenance capability ahead of receiving Virginia-class submarines in the early 2030s. This floating dock bridges the gap until permanent graving docks are built at the Henderson Defence Precinct. The project is part of a broader $12 billion investment in Western Australian defense infrastructure, expected to support 10,000 direct jobs over two decades. Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy emphasized the dock as a critical step for sovereign submarine sustainment and Indo-Pacific security. Leidos Gibbs & Cox has a six-decade history of design support for the Royal Australian Navy.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 07:10 AM UTC

VBX has entered into a bauxite offtake and investment framework agreement with a Hong Kong unit of a Chinese aluminium industry group. The agreement outlines intentions to negotiate terms for a potential investment in the Wuudagu bauxite project in northern Western Australia. The Chinese Group may purchase between two and three million tonnes of bauxite per annum, with pricing based on an agreed market reference index adjusted for quality. The investment is intended to cover a significant portion of construction and commissioning costs. Any final agreement is subject to negotiation of full-form contracts within 90 days after a definitive feasibility study. VBX and the Chinese Group will also explore collaboration on other bauxite assets in Northern Australia, including VBX's Takapinga project in the Northern Territory. VBX founder Ryan de Franck highlighted Wuudagu's low-silica quality and efficient logistics as key attributes.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 09:02 AM UTC

VBX has entered into a bauxite offtake and investment framework agreement with a Hong Kong unit of a Chinese aluminium industry group. The agreement outlines intentions to negotiate terms for a potential investment to develop and operate the Wuudagu bauxite project in northern Western Australia. The Chinese Group is expected to purchase between two and three million tonnes of bauxite per annum, with pricing based on a market reference index adjusted for quality. The investment is intended to cover a significant portion of construction and commissioning costs. Final agreements are subject to successful negotiation within 90 days after a definitive feasibility study. VBX and the Chinese Group will also explore collaboration on other bauxite assets in Northern Australia, including VBX's Takapinga project in the Northern Territory.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 09:02 AM UTC

Horizon Gold Ltd (ASX:HRN) has invited shareholders to an investor briefing webinar on July 29, 2026, to discuss the recently released definitive feasibility study (DFS) for its 100%-owned Gum Creek Gold Project in Western Australia. Managing Director and CEO Scott Williamson will present the DFS, which outlines a financially robust development pathway targeting first gold production in the second half of 2028. The open-pit project is forecast to produce an average of 98,000 ounces of gold annually over its first five years, with total recovered production of 880,000 ounces over a 10-year mine life. Based on a gold price of A$5,500 per ounce, the project is expected to generate A$1.85 billion in pre-tax free cash flow, a pre-tax net present value of A$1.31 billion, and an internal rate of return of 53.1%. Pre-production capital is estimated at A$350 million, with an all-in sustaining cost of A$2,995 per ounce and a 23-month payback period.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 12:46 AM UTC

Horizon Gold Ltd (ASX:HRN) has released a definitive feasibility study (DFS) for its 100%-owned Gum Creek Gold Project in Western Australia, targeting first production in the second half of 2028. The open-pit study outlines average annual production of 98,000 ounces of gold over the first five years, with total recovered production of 880,000 ounces across an initial 10-year mine life. Based on a gold price of A$5,500 per ounce, the project is forecast to generate A$1.85 billion in pre-tax free cash flow, with a pre-tax net present value of A$1.31 billion and an internal rate of return of 53.1%. Pre-production capital is estimated at A$350 million, with an all-in sustaining cost of A$2,995 per ounce and a 23-month payback period. The board has endorsed the DFS and approved progression into the execution phase, targeting a final investment decision in Q2 2027. Plant construction is expected to begin in Q4 2027, subject to financing and environmental approvals.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 11:10 PM UTC

Renewable energy developer Yanara has obtained a €150 million ($171.4 million) investment from Mirova, an affiliate of Natixis Investment Managers, to support its utility-scale renewable energy portfolio in Australia. The funding will expand over 2GW of renewable energy infrastructure across Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia. A significant portion will go to Yanara's Mortlake Energy Hub in Victoria, which combines 450MW of solar capacity with a 600MW/2,400MWh battery energy storage system across two stages. The facility will supply around 200,000 homes and avoid 880,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually. Construction of the first phase is expected to create over 300 jobs. This marks Yanara's first capital raise in Australia. EY acted as financial adviser to Yanara, while Lazard Australia advised Mirova.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 01:52 PM UTC

Renewable energy developer Yanara has obtained a €150 million ($171.4 million) investment from Mirova, an affiliate of Natixis Investment Managers, to support its utility-scale renewable energy portfolio in Australia. The funding will expand over 2GW of renewable energy infrastructure across Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia. A significant portion will go to Yanara's Mortlake Energy Hub in Victoria, which combines 450MW of solar capacity with a 600MW/2,400MWh battery energy storage system across two stages. The facility will supply electricity to around 200,000 homes and avoid 880,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually. Construction of the first phase is expected to create over 300 jobs. Yanara is developing over 5.1GW of hybrid renewable projects in Australia, India, and the Philippines. EY acted as financial adviser to Yanara, while Lazard Australia advised Mirova.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 01:52 PM UTC

Aluminum producer Alcoa reduced its 2026 alumina production guidance by 200,000 to 300,000 metric tons, now expecting 9.5-9.6 million metric tons, citing instability at its Pinjarra refinery in Western Australia exacerbated by gas supply disruptions from Cyclone Narelle. The company also lowered alumina shipment expectations to 11.5-11.6 million metric tons and reported a negative adjusted EBITDA of $96 million for its alumina segment in Q2, driven by energy contract losses and higher production costs. Despite these challenges, Alcoa reported overall revenue of nearly $4 billion (up 31% year-over-year) and net income of $407 million. CEO William Oplinger noted the Pinjarra refinery has returned to stable operating rates, and alumina prices remain solid amid geopolitical disruptions in the Middle East.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 12:11 PM UTC

Fenix Resources has received regulatory and environmental approvals to develop its Beebyn-W10 iron ore mine in Western Australia, adjacent to its existing Beebyn-W11 operation within the Weld Range Project. The approvals include a Mining Development and Closure Proposal and a Native Vegetation Clearing Permit from the state's Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety, as well as a Prescribed Premises Works Licence from the Department of Water and Environmental Protection supporting capacity up to 6 million tonnes per annum at the Beebyn Hub. The site lies within the Wajarri Yamaji People Native Title Claim area, and Fenix has signed a letter of consent with the Wajarri Yamaji People. Ore production is expected to commence this quarter, with first shipping anticipated in the December 2026 quarter. The Beebyn Hub forms the core of Fenix's three-year plan through 2028, with expansion plans to reach approximately 10mtpa by 2031 and extend operations to 2042.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 10:58 AM UTC

Fenix Resources has received regulatory and environmental approvals to develop its Beebyn-W10 iron ore mine, located adjacent to its existing Beebyn-W11 operation within the Weld Range Project in Western Australia. The approvals include a Mining Development and Closure Proposal and a Native Vegetation Clearing Permit from the state's Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety, as well as a Prescribed Premises Works Licence from the Department of Water and Environmental Protection, supporting capacity of up to six million tonnes per annum at the Beebyn Hub. The site lies within the Wajarri Yamaji People Native Title Claim area, and Fenix has signed a letter of consent with the Wajarri Yamaji People to begin mining. Ore production is expected to commence this quarter, with first shipping anticipated in the December 2026 quarter. The Beebyn Hub is central to Fenix's three-year plan through the 2028 financial year, with expansion plans targeting approximately 10mtpa by 2031 and operations extending to 2042.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 10:58 AM UTC

Alcoa, along with the governments of Australia, Japan, and the United States, has reached a final investment decision to develop a gallium production plant at its Wagerup alumina refinery in Western Australia. The facility aims to diversify global supplies of gallium, a critical mineral used in semiconductors, power electronics, and defense technologies, reducing reliance on China, which dominates primary gallium production and has tightened export controls. Alcoa will build and operate the plant, leveraging its alumina refining expertise. Construction is expected to begin after final site preparations. CEO William Oplinger highlighted the joint commitment to strengthening critical mineral supply chains and the strategic role of Western Australia. The project aligns with broader Western allied efforts to build resilient supply chains for minerals essential to energy transition, advanced manufacturing, and national security.

1 reports · 1 sources

Macmahon Holdings' subsidiary, Macmahon Underground, has signed a A$355m ($247m) contract to provide mining services at the Mt Marion lithium operation in Western Australia. The three-year agreement includes an option for a one-year extension and covers comprehensive development and production mining activities. The site, located 70km south of Kalgoorlie, is co-owned by Mineral Resources and Jiangxi Ganfeng Lithium. The contract marks a transition to underground mining at the site, which began open-pit operations in 2016. Mineral Resources confirmed a final investment decision in May 2026 to expand operations, including a flotation plant and underground mining. Macmahon's CEO highlighted the opportunity as positioning the company as a tier one contractor in future-facing commodities.

1 reports · 1 sources

In a landmark legal decision, the Federal Court of Western Australia has awarded the Yindjibarndi people a record $150 million in compensation for cultural loss caused by Fortescue Metals Group's Solomon Hub mine operations. This ruling, delivered by Justice Stephen Burley, marks the largest Native Title compensation payout in Australian history. The case originated from failed negotiations in 2008 between Fortescue founder Andrew Forrest and the Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation regarding access to traditional lands in the Pilbara region. Justice Burley found that the mining operation had destroyed or significantly damaged numerous heritage sites, including 124 completely destroyed locations, without the group's approval. The court noted that over 135 square kilometers of land were fenced off, restricting Indigenous access to sacred areas. In addition to the cultural damages, the group received $100,000 for economic loss. The judge conducted extensive research, including visiting the region to understand the impact on the community. The decision highlights the severe cultural disruption caused by large-scale industrial mining on Indigenous lands, despite government approvals for the project.

1 reports · 1 sources

A viral video showing the decapitation of a four-meter tiger shark by recreational fishers in Albany, Western Australia, has triggered a debate over marine conservation and fishing regulations. Although the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) confirmed that the fishermen did not violate any existing laws, their actions have faced sharp criticism from experts and local community members. UWA researcher Mark Meekan condemned the act as irresponsible trophy hunting, emphasizing the critical ecological role tiger sharks play as apex predators. He argued that protecting large, reproductive sharks is vital for maintaining healthy seagrass ecosystems, which help sequester carbon. Consequently, Meekan and other advocates are calling for the introduction of size limits for tiger shark fishing to align with other fisheries and protect breeding populations. While DPIRD noted that current rules limit the catch of large pelagic finfish and ban certain methods in populated areas, these restrictions do not currently apply to Albany or include specific size limits for tiger sharks. The incident highlights growing tensions between recreational fishing rights and environmental preservation efforts in the region.

1 reports · 1 sources

Australian cricketer Mitch Marsh was cruelly denied an Indian Premier League (IPL) century after being run out on 90 during Lucknow Super Giants' victory over Chennai Super Kings. Despite the dismissal, Marsh maintained a positive attitude, highlighting the success of his opening partnership with fellow Australian Josh Inglis. The pair shared a blistering 135-run stand, laying the foundation for Lucknow's comfortable seven-wicket win. Marsh scored rapidly, hitting nine fours and seven sixes off 38 deliveries, while Inglis contributed 36 runs. The match also featured notable performances from Nicholas Pooran, who hit four consecutive sixes, and struggled bowling figures for Chennai’s Anshul Kamboj, who conceded 63 runs in just 2.4 overs. Chennai’s new Australian recruit Spencer Johnson also had a difficult return, conceding 39 runs. The win marked the second consecutive victory for Lucknow, driven by the strong form of their all-Australian opening duo, although Chennai missed a crucial opportunity to advance into playoff contention.

1 reports · 1 sources

Australia has recorded its first diphtheria-related death in nearly ten years, following a significant outbreak in the Northern Territory (NT) declared in March. Health authorities attribute the resurgence of this once-eradicated bacterial infection to declining vaccination rates post-pandemic. The NT has reported 126 cases this year, predominantly affecting Indigenous communities, while Western Australia's Kimberley region saw cases triple to 27 in a single month. Additional cases have emerged in South Australia and Queensland. Diphtheria, caused by Corynebacterium bacteria, spreads via respiratory droplets or skin contact, potentially leading to severe airway obstruction and death. Although treatable with antibiotics and antitoxins, global supply limitations and the disease's rapid progression pose challenges. Experts emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective prevention method. The outbreak highlights vulnerabilities in remote areas with overcrowded housing and limited healthcare access. Authorities urge Australians to update their immunizations, noting that booster doses are critical for maintaining immunity against this deadly, vaccine-preventable disease.

1 reports · 1 sources

This article explores the dramatic transformation of donkeys in Western Australia's Kimberley region, shifting from indispensable beasts of burden to declared pests. In the early 20th century, before the advent of reliable roads and vehicles, donkey teams were crucial for transporting heavy loads, including wool, machinery, and even scientific equipment for Einstein's Theory of Relativity experiments, across the rugged terrain. Locals recall these animals as docile, sure-footed, and vital to the operation of remote cattle stations and mail services. However, as infrastructure improved with the construction of roads like the Gibb River Road and the introduction of trucks in the mid-20th century, the demand for donkey labor vanished. Many animals were released or escaped, leading to a population explosion that disrupted farming and road safety. By the 1960s, donkeys were classified as a menace, resulting in widespread culling efforts by stockmen. The narrative highlights the contrast between their earlier revered status as hardworking partners and their later designation as a nuisance that not even the meat trade could fully mitigate.

1 reports · 1 sources

The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) confirmed that a New Zealand passenger aboard a cruise ship affected by a hantavirus outbreak has tested negative for the virus. The individual entered Taiwan on May 7 and reported no health issues, with blood and urine samples ruling out infection. Despite the negative result, the passenger is classified as a high-risk contact and will remain isolated in a hospital for monitoring until June 6. During this period, daily temperature checks and strict hygiene protocols are required, with weekly specimen collection continuing throughout the management phase. The Taiwan CDC is coordinating with the World Health Organization and the New Zealand government to manage the situation, reassuring the public that there is no cause for concern. Meanwhile, the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance to the dual national, who typically resides outside New Zealand. In related developments, two other New Zealanders and five Australians are undergoing quarantine in Western Australia after also testing negative prior to arrival. The outbreak involves the Andes virus strain, which is endemic to Argentina and capable of human-to-human transmission.

1 reports · 1 sources

Japanese exploration and production company Inpex has initiated steps to join the Browse joint venture, a major offshore gas development project in Western Australia. Through its subsidiary, Inpex Mirai Upstream, the company signed a sales and purchase agreement to acquire a 10.67% participating interest from PetroChina International Investment. The transaction, which is subject to regulatory and joint venture approvals, covers titles for the Brecknock, Calliance, and Torosa gas fields. Described as Australia’s largest untapped conventional gas resource, the Browse fields hold an estimated 13.9 trillion cubic feet of dry gas and 390 million barrels of condensate. The project aims to backfill the declining North West Shelf infrastructure and is projected to contribute significantly to regional energy security. Economic assessments suggest the Browse to North West Shelf project could boost Western Australia’s gross state product by A$147 billion and national GDP by over A$141 billion. This acquisition expands Inpex’s existing Australian portfolio, which includes the Ichthys LNG and Prelude FLNG projects, reinforcing its strategic position in the Asia-Pacific energy market.

1 reports · 1 sources

Western Australia Treasurer Rita Saffioti has admitted that maintaining the $217.5 million budget for the controversial Perth Park project will be difficult, despite previous assurances to taxpayers. The project, initially pitched as a motorsport street circuit, includes a multi-use racetrack, a 12,000-capacity amphitheatre, and other facilities. While the government secured a crucial 3.7-hectare land swap with Crown Casino worth over $36 million at no cost, Saffioti acknowledged ongoing budget pressures common to all major contracts. Additionally, a planned hospitality venue within the precinct was excluded from the initial budget estimate, a move criticized by Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas as an admission that the total cost will inevitably rise. Zempilas argued that separating this venue undermines the government's cost claims and lacks transparency. The project has faced significant public backlash and political opposition from resident groups, the Liberal Party, and the Greens since its announcement during the last election campaign. Despite the controversy, the government maintains that the core elements were clear from the start and continues to target the original estimated total cost, though future adjustments remain possible.

1 reports · 1 sources

Japanese energy giant Inpex has announced an agreement to purchase PetroChina's stake in the Browse gas fields located offshore Western Australia. The transaction involves acquiring a 10.67 per cent interest in the Brecknock, Calliance, and Torosa gas fields, which constitute Australia's largest undeveloped gas resource. While the specific financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, the acquisition marks a significant consolidation of ownership in the project. The completion of the sale is contingent upon receiving necessary regulatory approvals and consent from joint venture partners. The Browse project, operated by Woodside Energy, is earmarked to supply gas to the North West Shelf liquefied natural gas facility. Originally purchased by PetroChina from BHP for $1.63 billion in 2012, the stake is now transferring to Inpex as part of strategic adjustments in the region. The broader Browse project faces an estimated cost of A$48.7 billion, including provisions for carbon capture technology. This move aligns with Inpex's recent expansion efforts, including its position in the Beetaloo shale gas basin, reinforcing Japan's commitment to securing long-term energy supplies from Australia amidst global market shifts.

1 reports · 1 sources

Australian citizens and residents evacuated from the Dutch-flagged luxury cruise ship MV Hondius, which was struck by a deadly hantavirus outbreak, have returned to Australia. The group, consisting of four Australian citizens, one permanent resident, and one New Zealand resident, arrived at an Air Force base near Perth, Western Australia, on a government-organized charter flight. Federal Health Minister Mark Butler confirmed that all passengers tested negative and were asymptomatic before boarding in the Netherlands. They are now undergoing mandatory isolation at a nearby quarantine center for at least three weeks, with further testing scheduled immediately upon arrival. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that eleven passengers on the vessel contracted the virus, resulting in three fatalities. While the WHO has recommended a 42-day quarantine period for all exposed individuals, health experts emphasize that hantavirus is significantly less contagious than COVID-19 and poses a lower risk to the general public. The virus is primarily transmitted through rodents, though rare human-to-human transmission is possible, with symptoms typically appearing one to eight weeks after exposure.

1 reports · 1 sources

Australian citizens and residents evacuated from the Dutch-flagged luxury cruise ship MV Hondius, which was struck by a deadly hantavirus outbreak, have returned to Australia. The group, consisting of four Australian citizens, one permanent resident, and one New Zealand resident, arrived at an Air Force base near Perth, Western Australia, on a government-organized charter flight. Federal Health Minister Mark Butler confirmed that all passengers tested negative and were asymptomatic before boarding in the Netherlands. They are now undergoing mandatory isolation at a nearby quarantine center for at least three weeks, with further testing scheduled upon arrival. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that eleven passengers on the vessel contracted the virus, resulting in three fatalities. While the WHO recommended a 42-day quarantine period for all exposed individuals, health experts emphasize that hantavirus is less contagious than COVID-19 and poses a lower risk to the general public. The virus is primarily transmitted by rodents, though rare human-to-human transmission is possible. This event highlights ongoing international health protocols regarding infectious disease outbreaks on commercial vessels.

1 reports · 1 sources

The Western Australian Planning Commission has unanimously approved a development application for the Perth Park project, which includes a portion of the controversial Burswood racetrack. This decision marks a significant milestone for the $217.5 million initiative, despite strong opposition from local residents and the Town of Victoria Park. Critics, including Mayor Karen Vernon and resident Michael Thorn, argued that the racetrack is incompatible with the area's parkland values and would cause excessive noise pollution affecting nearby homes and wildlife. In response to these concerns, commissioners added an amendment limiting motorsport events to one Supercars event per year for a maximum of three days. Concurrently, Transport Minister Rita Saffioti announced a $202.4 million construction contract award and a land-swap agreement with Crown Resorts. The government maintains that Perth Park will transform the Burswood Peninsula into a world-class hub for sport and entertainment, asserting that noise impacts will be managed through strict regulatory plans. The approval allows construction to begin on earthworks, landscaping, and infrastructure upgrades, signaling the project's progression despite ongoing community disappointment.

1 reports · 1 sources

Documents released under freedom of information laws reveal that Alcoa’s Willowdale mine in Western Australia is under federal investigation for ongoing land clearing. The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water is examining operations after the miner was previously penalized $55 million for unauthorized clearing between 2019 and 2025. This recent activity, involving 318 hectares, was described as a deliberate repeat breach. Alcoa has agreed to enforceable undertakings, including $40 million for ecological offsets and $15 million for conservation research, while maintaining that its actions align with historical grandfathering provisions under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. Despite these agreements, the company continues mining during an 18-month strategic assessment, drawing sharp criticism from environmental groups. Conservationists argue that allowing continued operations undermines biodiversity protection in the unique northern jarrah forest. They are calling for the immediate revocation of national interest exemptions and greater transparency regarding the ongoing investigation, emphasizing the urgent need to protect this iconic ecosystem from further decline due to mining and climate change.

1 reports · 1 sources

Rateb Jneid, president of the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC), is at the center of a severe internal conflict within Australia's peak Muslim representative body. Once a bankrupt builder turned professor, Jneid has consolidated power over the organization, which manages a $56 million property portfolio and lobbies government leaders. However, his leadership is now challenged by expelled members, including former assistant treasurer Mohammed Berjaoui, who alleges the organization has been hijacked. The dispute involves accusations regarding donations linked to charities run by Jneid’s family, prompting email campaigns to foreign embassies and warnings from government regulators about AFIC’s charity status. Jneid, currently in his ninth year as president despite constitutional term limits, has delayed elections multiple times. Controversy also surrounds his family background; two brothers were imprisoned for drug trafficking in 2016, while others face significant fines. Additionally, a family-linked charity, International Humanitarian Aid Inc., faces scrutiny for lacking public records of direct aid delivery despite receiving substantial donations. Jneid’s legal team dismisses these allegations as irrelevant historical matters or misleading attacks by ousted executives.

1 reports · 1 sources

The Department of Justice in Western Australia has announced the temporary closure of more than 20 regional and remote courthouses for at least three months, starting June 1, due to a lack of police security personnel. The measure affects Magistrates and Children’s Courts, with criminal proceedings redirected to larger regional centers or conducted via video link. Major hubs like Broome and Geraldton remain open, but remote communities such as Fitzroy Crossing and Newman face significant disruptions. Legal advocates warn that the closures create extreme barriers for residents, citing high travel costs, long distances on unsealed roads, and potential cultural challenges. For instance, residents from Jigalong must travel seven hours to South Hedland. Critics argue that these logistical hurdles may cause individuals to miss court dates, leading to contempt charges and deeper entanglement in the justice system. The Department acknowledges the disruption but states the arrangements are necessary for safety. District Court sittings in Esperance and Derby are also suspended, with matters transferred to Kalgoorlie and Broome respectively. The notice remains in effect only as long as required to ensure security for all court users.

1 reports · 1 sources