QLD water funding, Bali flights & more today
Queensland residents will see new water infrastructure funding while South Perth homeowners face local council instability over rate hikes. Meanwhile, arrests have been made following violent unrest in Central Australia, and Canberra travelers gain a new direct international route to Bali.
Queensland households will see $545 million invested in water security and dam restoration to ensure long-term supply across the state. Treasurer David Janetzki confirmed the funding in the upcoming budget, which will specifically top up two dams in the south-east. The government also promised no cuts to public service jobs, though the state is not expected to return to a budget surplus for at least four years.
South Perth residents are facing leadership instability and potential changes to local service costs after three councillors resigned within 72 hours. The mass exit was triggered by disputes over proposed rate hikes—the fees property owners pay for local services—and broader concerns about dysfunction within the council.
Residents in the remote Central Australian community of Yuendumu are urged to remain cautious following a violent disturbance where several cars were set on fire. Police have arrested a 36-year-old man and a teenager in connection with the incident; both were denied bail as authorities work to prevent further unrest.
Canberra travelers can now fly directly to Bali as Virgin Australia launches new international services from the capital today. The airline will operate three return flights per week, making it the first Australian carrier to provide international flights directly out of Canberra Airport and saving locals from transiting through other major cities.
For more on these stories, including the latest on Tasmania's Marinus Link energy project, the GrainCorp factory trial, and the unexpected resignation of the UK Prime Minister, visit the News section in the app.