September 2009
Australia's biggest vaccination project
Updated 30/09/2009 12:11:36
Australia's campaign to vaccinate hundreds of thousands of people against swine flu is being called the biggest such campaign in the country's history.
Pressure for Sri Lanka to resettle camp dwellers
Updated 30/09/2009 12:11:36
It's been four months since Sri Lanka's military defeated the Tamil Tiger rebels, but hundreds of thousands of displaced civilians - mainly Tamils - are still languishing in government-run camps.
Australian budget strategy scrutinised
Updated 30/09/2009 12:11:36
The Australian Government is under more pressure to review its budget strategy - because it's been too successful.
Thai youths lack sexual health awareness: study
Updated 30/09/2009 12:11:36
An international study has revealed poor use of contraceptives among young people in Thailand.
Changing views on death penalty in Japan
Updated 30/09/2009 12:11:36
A Japanese High Court has commuted the death sentence of Japanese mobster Tetsuya Shiroo, who had been convicted of murdering the Mayor of Nagasaki, on the island of Kyushu.
NATO supports US re-evaluation of Afghan strategy
Updated 30/09/2009 12:11:36
US President Barack Obama has begun a series of meetings with his national security team on what to do next in Afghanistan.
Videos show terrorists wanted to destroy Australia
Updated 30/09/2009 12:11:36
Indonesian police have released video evidence recovered from the laptop computer of dead terrorist, Noordin Mohammad Top, the alleged mastermind behind attacks on two Jakarta hotels in July.
Philippines capital still a disaster zone
Updated 30/09/2009 12:11:36
The Philippines' capital, Manila, remains a disaster zone, four days after Tropical Storm Ketsana struck, causing devastating floods.
American Samoa earthquake triggers tsunami fears
Updated 30/09/2009 12:11:37
An huge 8.3 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of American Samoa, triggering a tsunami that has killed people and damaged property.
China's farmers nostalgic for Mao's vision
Updated 30/09/2009 12:11:34
China is celebrating the 60th anniversary of Communist rule with a parade and pageant to highlight the country's boom since the 1980s.
Burma documentary shows secret struggle
Updated 29/09/2009 11:25:15
A new documentary shows Burmese civilians recording anti-government protests in 2007, and smuggling the footage out to the rest of the world.
Australian state premier urged to discuss extradition with India
Updated 29/09/2009 11:25:15
The Premier of the Australian state of Victoria, John Brumby, is in India at the moment trying to reassure the government, prospective students and their parents that Melbourne is a safe place to study despite the recent attacks on foreign students.
Overseas graduates lack language and social skills: study
Updated 29/09/2009 11:25:15
Foreign students in Australia are struggling to find full-time work in their chosen field because they don't have the social and language skills to fit into the Australian workplace, according to a report.
Anti-Taliban tribal leader killed in Afghanistan
Updated 29/09/2009 11:25:15
Police in Pakistan say an anti-Taliban tribal elder and three guards were killed by a suicide car bomb in the country's northwest.
Australian oil spill threatens marine life
Updated 29/09/2009 11:25:15
An rig leaking hundreds of barrels of oil in to the Timor Sea off the northwest Australian coast will not be plugged for at least another three weeks, according to the Thai firm that operates the rig.
Bangkok meeting to draft Copenhagen climate agreement
Updated 29/09/2009 11:25:16
Negotiators are in Bangkok this week to pull together draft climate change agreements, ahead of the peak meeting in Copenhagen later this year - and floods in the Philippines are being seen as a sign of dangers ahead.
Rescue efforts continue in flooded Manila
Updated 29/09/2009 11:25:16
Disaster response workers have been overwhelmed by the sheer scale of flooding in the Philippines capital Manila, after tropical storm Ketsana dumped a month's worth of rain over a 12-hour period on the weekend.
Burmese PM tells UN sanctions are 'unjust'
Updated 29/09/2009 11:25:16
Burma's Prime Minister Thein Sein has addressed the UN General Assembly, the first top government representative to do that in 14 years, and has criticised sanctions against the regime.
Australian drought threatens wetlands frog
Updated 29/09/2009 11:25:10
Australia's biggest river system - the Murray Darling basin - is still suffering from the effects of the country's ongoing drought.
Film breaks West Papua media ban
Updated 28/09/2009 11:39:34
A new film shows rarely-seen footage of separatist rebels in Indonesia's Papua province, who have been fighting a low-level insurgency for more than 40 years.
Taiwan's ruling KMT gets wake-up call in by-election
Updated 28/09/2009 11:39:34
Taiwan's ruling nationalist Kuomintang party has acknowledged that a weekend by-election loss was a warning from the people.
Chinese spam from Pam targets foreign reporters
Updated 28/09/2009 11:39:34
Foreign journalists based in China have fallen victims to cyber attacks in the run-up to the country's 60th anniversary under communist rule - something which is becoming a pattern ahead of sensitive political events.
Canberra tightens restrictions on mining investments
Updated 28/09/2009 11:39:34
Canberra has made it clear to foreign investors they can expect tough limits to be imposed in the resources sector, as another Chinese company drops efforts to buy a majority stake in an Australian mining company.
China's dramatic cultural shift since founding
Updated 28/09/2009 11:39:34
Ahead of this week's 60th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, the nation is reflecting on decades of political turbulence.
Australian businesses pressured to pull out of Burma
Updated 28/09/2009 11:39:34
The campaign against Burma's military regime has taken on another front, with Australia's budget airline, Jetstar, the target of a new attempt to get Australian businesses out of Burma.
G20 sets new economic agenda for the world
Updated 28/09/2009 11:39:35
The leaders of the world's 20 most influential economies - better known a G20 - are being hailed as the new peak grouping to set global economic policy, after its gathering in Pittsburgh last week. China and India were recently brought into the club that was previously mostly restricted to the US and leading European economies.
Devastating storm causes heavy toll in Philippine capital
Updated 28/09/2009 11:39:35
The heaviest rain in over 40 years in the Philippines has killed at least 73 people and left another 330,000 homeless.
Burial of suspected Indonesian militants causes trouble
Updated 28/09/2009 11:39:32
In Indonesia, a grassroots backlash against terrorism is trying to stop suspects killed in recent police raids from being buried in their local villages - putting families in a tough position.
Japan friend-for-rent for any occasion
Updated 28/09/2009 11:39:32
In Japan, you can buy almost anything - including a friend, a wife, even a best man for your wedding.
SKorea's Finance Minister says crisis over
Updated 25/09/2009 17:25:22
South Korea's Finance Minister, Yoon Jeung-hyun, is upbeat about the country's economic prospects, saying free trade is the key to a continued recovery.
Japan cancels mega-dam project
Updated 25/09/2009 13:05:06
It's been on the drawing board for more than half-a-century and has already forced the relocation of hundreds of families, but after just a week in power, Japan's new government has caused outrage by cancelling construction of a $US5 billion dam.
Nepal's war death tally 16,000, as abuses go ignored
Updated 25/09/2009 13:05:06
The Nepal government has increased the official death toll for the region's Maoist 10-year insurgency to 16,000 - following recommendations from an investigating taskforce.
Thai HIV vaccine reduces infections by a third
Updated 25/09/2009 13:05:06
The US army and the Thai Public Health ministry may seem like odd bedfellows, but together, they are part of one of the most successful HIV vaccine trials to date.
US agrees to send Gitmo Uighurs to Palau
Updated 25/09/2009 13:05:06
The US is breathing a sigh of relief, because it believes it's found a home for Uighur prisoners held in Guantanamo.
China prepares for 60th celebrations
Updated 25/09/2009 13:05:06
Beijing is gearing up for next week's mass military parade and pageants to mark 60 years since the founding of the People's Republic of China.
The paradoxical risks of nuclear disarmament
Updated 25/09/2009 13:05:07
The UN Security Council meeting seeks to drive forward US President Barack Obama's agenda on nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament.
UN resolution gives new hope for nuclear non-proliferation
Updated 25/09/2009 13:05:07
US President Barack Obama has convened the first ever summit-level meeting of the UN Security Council and has got all 15 member nations to agree to a resolution on nuclear disarmament.
'Singlish' is confusing, lah
Updated 25/09/2009 13:05:02
Singapore has long positioned itself as a regional business centre, and has been trying to raise language standards in the island state.
US policy shift, two years after Burma's 'Saffron Revolution'
Updated 25/09/2009 13:05:02
US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says that while sanctions against Burma remain an important part of US policy, they have not produced the results that had been hoped for.
Local reporters increasingly at risk in conflict zones
Updated 24/09/2009 11:54:54
Local journalists employed by international news organizations frequently risk jail, kidnapping and death to bring us the news from the world's hotspots.
Killing of Afghan reporter outrages media
Updated 24/09/2009 11:54:54
Afghanistan may be seen as a necessary fight for Australia and its allies, but reporting on the conflict is a dangerous assignment, especially for local reporters.
Afghanistan war still worth fighting: Stephen Smith
Updated 24/09/2009 11:54:54
The United States is expected to receive a formal request later this week from General Stanley McChrystal, the top US military commander in Afghanistan, asking for more troops.
Australian defense minister vetoes China mine deal
Updated 24/09/2009 11:54:54
Australia's Defence Department has halted a multi-billion dollar mining project involving a Chinese company, due to security concerns.
Australian warship intercepts pirates in Gulf of Aden
Updated 24/09/2009 11:54:54
An Australian warship has intercepted Somali pirates allegedly stalking a merchant ship in the Gulf of Aden.
Corruption costs businesses billions of dollars
Updated 24/09/2009 11:54:54
The corruption watchdog Transparency International says the massive scale of global corruption resulting from bribery, price-fixing cartels and undue influence on public policy is costing billions of dollars and obstructing the path towards sustainable economic growth.
World leaders shift focus to G20
Updated 24/09/2009 11:54:54
The world's focus will shift over the next two days from the UN meeting in New York to Pittsburgh. The G20 leaders will gather there to continue discussions on issues of global importance.
Kevin Rudd pushes for G20 to be new global force
Updated 24/09/2009 11:54:54
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has used a lunch at the prestigious Foreign Policy Forum in New York, to call for a re-invigoration of world bodies like the UN and the International Monetary Fund.
Economist says China likely to specify carbon emission cuts
Updated 24/09/2009 11:54:55
A prominent Chinese climate economist says its likely China will put a figure on cutting carbon emissions and says President Hu Jintao's speech to the special U-N summit in New York signals China is ready to sign up to a deal at Copenhagen.
Small steps made in climate change debate: Stephen Smith
Updated 24/09/2009 11:54:55
Australia's Foreign Minister Stephen Smith says the meeting of the world's leaders in New York has seen modest steps forward, but warns there's a long way to go yet before any global agreement is secured.
China-Australia research pact into alternative medicine
Updated 24/09/2009 11:54:53
Melbourne's RMIT University has announced a million-dollar partnership with the Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, for research into using herbal medicine in managing chronic respitory diseases.
Philippine military tackles Abu Sayyaf in troubled south
Updated 23/09/2009 11:04:39
Security forces in the Philippines are bracing themselves for further attacks by Islamist militants after fierce clashes claimed 32 lives.
China stops visitor permits to Tibet ahead of anniversary
Updated 23/09/2009 11:04:39
China has stopped issuing entry-permits to foreigners wanting to travel to Tibet in the lead-up to the 60th anniversary of communist rule.
More pressure on Sri Lanka to release Tamils from camps
Updated 23/09/2009 11:04:39
World leaders attending the UN General Assembly have been urged to pressure Sri Lanka to immediately release more than 260,000 displaced people, forcibly confined to detention camps.
Business community calls for 'credible' deal in Copenhagen
Updated 23/09/2009 11:04:39
More than 500 CEOs from around the world have sent a message that not all businesses are inflexible when it comes to tackling climate change.
Island states warn of climate change 'genocide'
Updated 23/09/2009 11:04:39
The planet's small island states warned the world will be committing what they call "benign genocide" if it doesn't agree to drastic climate change measures.
China takes climate change initiative with new plan at UN
Updated 23/09/2009 11:04:39
China has announced a commitment to reduce carbon emissions, with a new plan unveiled at the UN General Assembly in New York.
Talk of slow motion genocide in Indonesia's Papua province
Updated 23/09/2009 11:04:36
Problems in Indonesia's Papua province include security at the Freeport mine, high HIV rates, fast-shifting demographics and the ongoing conflict between the Free Papua Movement - known as OPM - and Indonesian security forces.
Attacks continue at Freeport mine in Indonesia's Papua province
Updated 23/09/2009 11:04:36
The attacks on the Freeport mine in Indonesia's Papua province are reportedly continuing, two months after three people were killed, including one Australian.
Renault escapes serious F1 sanctions
Updated 22/09/2009 11:09:26
Racing team Renault has been given a two-year suspended ban from Formula 1 for their role in fixing last year's Singapore Grand Prix.
QANTAS eyes Asian expansion, makes big executive payouts
Updated 22/09/2009 11:09:26
Australian airline QANTAS is getting criticised for big executive payouts - but the airline is more focused on trying to buy in to the biggest shake-up in Asian aviation in a decade.
WHO pushes for worldwide swine flu vaccine
Updated 22/09/2009 11:09:26
The World Health Organisation has opened its annual Asia-Pacific meeting in Hong Kong, with the swine flu pandemic top of the agenda.
More troops or we could lose Afghan war: McChrystal
Updated 22/09/2009 11:09:26
The top US commander in Afghanistan is warning US President Barack Obama that without more troops, America could lose the war.
Australia, South Korea push climate change options
Updated 22/09/2009 11:09:26
Australian and South Korean suggestions to tackle climate change are getting attention in New York, but one element is missing: how to pay for the measures developing countries are expected to take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
UN Sec-Gen says climate policies 'moral imperative'
Updated 22/09/2009 11:09:26
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon has told a public forum in New York that the world has a moral imperative to sign a new deal to cut carbon emissions at the Copenhagen talks in December.
Business sponsors Last Post at Australia's War Memorial
Updated 22/09/2009 11:09:23
The closing ceremony at Australia's National War Memorial will now be sponsored by a telecommunications company.
New US lead on nuclear disarmament
Updated 22/09/2009 11:09:23
The United States has drafted a UN Security Council resolution calling on all countries with nuclear weapons to get rid of them.
New houses for Australia's 'town camps'
Updated 21/09/2009 11:37:30
The Australian Government is promising to fix up so-called 'town camps', by building 85 new houses and bringing infrastructure up to the same standard as that in other parts of the central desert town of Alice Springs.
Beijing's birth defect rate doubles in a decade
Updated 21/09/2009 11:37:30
The World Health Organisation says eight percent of new born deaths in China are due to birth defects, but that rate is lower than many other countries it has studied.
Australian refugee policies criticised for 'ping pong' effect
Updated 21/09/2009 11:37:30
Australia is facing growing questions about the practice of what some call the "warehousing" of asylum seekers in second countries like Indonesia and Malaysia.
Thai 'Red Shirts' mark three years since military coup
Updated 21/09/2009 11:37:30
Thousands of supporters of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra braved heavy rain on the weekend, as they marked the third anniversary of the military coup that ousted the former leader from power.
Sri Lankan video investigations not independent: UN envoy
Updated 21/09/2009 11:37:30
Recent shocking British television footage, allegedly showing government soldiers killing unarmed, bound and naked prisoners, has prompted calls for a probe into possible war crimes.
Chinese leaders fail to appoint heir-apparent
Updated 21/09/2009 11:37:30
A key political meeting of China's leaders has ended in Beijing, setting out the nation's broad policy direction and identifying key challenges ahead.
The annual four-day plenary session ended without naming an heir apparent to President Hu Jintao.
Afghan man denies links to US bomb plot
Updated 21/09/2009 11:37:31
In the United States, the FBI has arrested three Afghanistan-born men as part of a terrorist investigation.
Bold greenhouse plans for Japan PM's world debut
Updated 21/09/2009 11:37:31
Japan's new prime minister makes his debut in New York, with a daring plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
Australia floats 'schedule' approach to carbon cuts
Updated 21/09/2009 11:37:31
Australia's Climate Minister Penny Wong is in New York and she has an idea which could break a critical climate deadlock.
Dry paddies predicted for Australian rice growers
Updated 21/09/2009 11:37:27
Australian rice growers face ongoing hardships, with predictions that it will be a long, hot summer.
Australian recipes by and for indigenous women to promote health
Updated 21/09/2009 11:37:27
Some of the big causes of poor Aboriginal health today in Australia are diabetes, heart disease and kidney failure. Diet is a critical factor and the Fred Hollows Foundation has been working with indigenous women in the Northern Territory on a cook book, for healthy, delicious recipes.
Timor's youth hope for a better future
Updated 18/09/2009 12:36:47
Timor's youth are hoping for a better future, but three years after violence broke out, have things changed enough?
Developing countries urged to become 'climate smart'
Updated 18/09/2009 12:36:47
The World Bank says East Asia and Pacific countries are most vulnerable to climate change - but they also have a chance to adapt and build 'climate-smart' economies if they get the right kind of support.
US-China try to deflate bicyle tyre dispute
Updated 18/09/2009 12:36:47
China has complained to the World Trade Organisation over the United States' decision to impose tariffs on Chinese tyre imports. But ahead of next week's G20 meeting, both are playing down talk of a trade dispute.
US and Australia appoint new ambassadors
Updated 18/09/2009 12:36:47
In step with tradition, Australia has named former Labor Party leader and one time defence minister Kim Beazley to the top diplomatic posting to Washington.
Meanwhile the US Obama administration's nomination for Ambassador to Canberra, Jeff Bleich, could be seen as a break with the past.
Border burning death increases Thai-Cambodia tensions
Updated 18/09/2009 12:36:47
The Cambodian government is calling for an investigation into the alleged shooting of illegal loggers by Thai troops near Cambodia's north-west border. A 16-year-old Cambodian boy was reportedly burnt alive, after being wounded by a bullet and captured by Thai soldiers.
Aung San Suu Kyi appeals against Burma court ruling
Updated 18/09/2009 12:36:47
Burma's beleaguered opposition leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, will appeal against the court ruling ordering her to a further 18 months of house detention. The international community has accused Burma's military regime of fabricating a case so that Ms Suu Kyi cannot contest next year's national elections.
Jemaah Islamiyah fractured by death of terrorist plotter
Updated 18/09/2009 12:36:47
While Noordin Top's death may not end terrorism in the region, it has significantly blunted a security a threat, ahead of a planned visit by US President Barack Obama. The 41 year old Malaysian-born fugitive was part of a more violent splinter group of Jemaah Islamiyah.
Noordin Top's killing a blow for Indonesian extremists
Updated 18/09/2009 12:36:47
Malaysian-born terror fugitive Noordin Mohammad Top was very elusive and slipped the net, sometimes just as authorities thought they had him. But on Thursday, his luck luck ran out and he was killed in a police raid in Java.
Indigenous opera set to debut in Melbourne
Updated 18/09/2009 12:36:45
Australia's first ever indigenous opera is already rehearsing, starring a cast of indigenous singers from around the country.
Pakistan women's rights see marginal improvements
Updated 17/09/2009 11:43:54
Pakistan's military says its troops have captured a wounded Taliban commander and are closing in on wanted extremist chieftains in the Swat valley, after a two-year uprising.
Australian picked for Indian Global Advisory Council
Updated 17/09/2009 11:43:54
A prominent Australian business and community leader has been appointed to India's high-level Global Advisory Council of Overseas Indians.
Tokyo police crack down on train gropers
Updated 17/09/2009 11:43:54
Tokyo may have one of the cleanest and most convenient commuter train systems in the world, but it has its share of pests - the gropers.
Mixed UN report card for human rights in East Timor
Updated 17/09/2009 11:43:54
The United Nations has released its third human rights report on East Timor, covering 2008 and 2009.
Seeking a better way for Australia to process asylum-seekers
Updated 17/09/2009 11:43:54
Australia's often heated debate over asylum seekers has flared again, with the conservative opposition reiterating claims the Rudd government's policies are soft and encouraging illegal boat arrivals.
Japan's new government promises sweeping changes
Updated 17/09/2009 11:43:54
The leader of the Democratic Party of Japan, Yukio Hatoyama has been sworn in as the nation's 60th Prime Minister.
Polling fraud allegations in Afghanistan cause divisions
Updated 17/09/2009 11:43:54
America's top diplomat at the UN mission in Afghanistan has left the country, reportedly after clashing with his superior, the UN chief in the country, over how to deal with widespread election fraud.
Outrage in India over Melbourne assaults
Updated 17/09/2009 11:43:55
There's been an angry reaction in India to the assault of four Indian men outside a bar in Melbourne at the weekend.
Formula One hit by another scandal
Updated 17/09/2009 11:43:12
Two senior members of the Renault team have quit, after allegations emerged they told one of their race drivers to deliberately crash at last year's Singapore Grand Prix.
Beggars doing it tough in Jakarta over Ramadan
Updated 17/09/2009 11:43:12
For Muslims, charity is considered an obligation during the holy fasting month of Ramadan.
Australian mob allegedly attacks three Indian men at bar
Updated 16/09/2009 11:30:28
There have been fresh reports of violence against foreign studentsin Australia, this time of three Indian men attacked by up 70 people outside a bar in Melbourne.
Australia's Telstra urged to split retail and wholesale arms
Updated 16/09/2009 11:30:28
Australia's biggest telephone company has been ordered by the Government to split its retail and wholesale operations.
Burmese monks key to democracy process: rights group
Updated 16/09/2009 11:30:28
Human Rights Watch says the US government is moving too slowly in announcing its new policy on Burma, with the delay giving the regime in Rangoon too much space.
Australia debates immigration policy
Updated 16/09/2009 11:30:28
A public community forum in Sydney got to weigh up arguments for and against cutting Australia's immigration intake - which has reached about 190,000 per year - before voting on whether or not they thought it was too high.
Australian gov't is listening:overseas student
Updated 16/09/2009 11:30:28
One of the 31 foreign students involved in the Canberra roundtable with Education Minister Julia Gillard was Kusum Tamang from Nepal. She's doing a one year diploma in community welfare at the Australian Learning Training and Education Centre in Melbourne, and she shared her thoughts after the discussion.
Foreign students bring 20 issues to Canberra roundtable
Updated 16/09/2009 11:30:29
In a meeting with Education Minister Julia Gillard, foreign students in Australia say they need more employment opportunities, transport concessions, and tighter regulation of the education sector.
Fury as alleged Timorese torturer allowed to flee Australia
Updated 16/09/2009 11:30:29
Australian authorities are facing bitter accusations from East Timorese torture victims after accused war criminal Gui Campos flew out of Australia and out of the reach of an Australian Federal Police investigation.
Space tourism on the agenda for China
Updated 16/09/2009 11:30:24
China plans to build a new space centre by 2013 as part of a campaign to dominate the business side of space services.
US to closely watch Japan's new security outlook
Updated 16/09/2009 11:30:25
Japan's new Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama has earlier called for a new approach to US troops stationed in his country - but the US is confident good relations will continue.
Australian government threatens early polls
Updated 15/09/2009 12:53:13
The spectre of a two-Billion dollar hole in the Australian budget has sparked new talk in Canberra of an early national election.
Indonesian govt asylum-seeker payoffs questioned
Updated 15/09/2009 12:53:13
An Indonesian International Relations expert is questioning the Indonesian government's attempts to encourage Afghan asylum seekers to return home by offering them financial inducements.
Anti-hunger science crusader dies aged 95
Updated 15/09/2009 12:53:13
The man known as the 'father of the Green Revolution' died on the weekend in the United States at the age of 95.
China and US face off over trade tariffs
Updated 15/09/2009 12:53:13
US President Barack Obama has tried to hose down new fears of a trade war with China in his much-anticipated speech to Wall Street.
Here's comes the sun-eating First Lady of Japan
Updated 15/09/2009 12:53:13
In Japan, Yukio Hatoyama, will be sworn in tomorrow as its 60th Prime minister, but so far a lot of media attention focussed on his wife and her eccentric views.
Pakistan more destabilising than Afghanistan: Indian envoy
Updated 15/09/2009 12:53:13
The Pakistan military is continuing its offensive against Taliban forces in the Swat Valley, arresting five commanders late last week, including Taliban spokesman Muslim Khan.
Diplomatic challenges for Australia over Sri lanka, Indonesia
Updated 15/09/2009 12:53:13
Canberra has offered both incentives and cautions to Sri Lanka over its treatment of displaced civilians living in camps after the end of fighting with the Tamil Tigers.
Australian steel makers left out of Gorgan gas field
Updated 15/09/2009 12:53:13
Australia's largest resources project has been given the official go-ahead.
Aceh to introduce stoning for adulterers
Updated 15/09/2009 12:53:13
Lawmakers in the Indonesian province of Aceh have passed a law that would see Muslims found guilty of adultery, stoned to death.
Australia risks ruining its climate change reputation
Updated 15/09/2009 12:53:09
The man who delivered the blueprint for Australia's climate change policy says political squabbling has damaged Australia's international reputation.
The evolution of doing business in China
Updated 14/09/2009 12:05:48
Australia and China have forged number of multi-billion dollar gas supply deal in recent weeks - but that doesn't mean tensions have gone away. Relations between the two countries have hit rough waters over negotiations on iron ore prices, and China company Chinalco's failed bid to buy into mining giant Rio Tinto earlier this year. Most dramatic has been China's arrest of four Rio Tinto executives, including Australian citizen Stern Hu.
UN highlights lack of child registration in Indonesia
Updated 14/09/2009 12:05:48
The United Nations says the births of six out of 10 children in Indonesia fail to be registered with the authorities, making them vulnerable to exploitation and denying them access to a range of services such as education and legal aid.
Suharto clan in political comeback bid
Updated 14/09/2009 12:05:48
More than a decade after Indonesian president Suharto ended his 31 years in power, his son Tommy has announced he'll run for head of the Golkar political party, that his father founded. Tommy Soharto, the youngest of six children, spent four years in prison for ordering the murder of a Supreme Court judge, who had convicted him of fraud.
Tension rises as religious conflict hits London streets
Updated 14/09/2009 12:05:48
Hundreds of London police have had to separate mainly Muslim protesters from a small group of rival demonstrators who were calling for an end to what they describe as Islamic terrorism in Britain. It was one of a series of clashes between the English Defence League and various Muslim groups that in recent days have left a number of people injured and under arrest.
Former Taiwan President jailed for life
Updated 14/09/2009 12:05:48
Prosecutors in Taiwan are said to be considering further legal action against the island's former president and his wife, just days after the pair were jailed for life for corruption. Local media reports say investigators are examining Chen Shui-bian's alleged role in a further six cases, ranging from embezzlement of secret diplomatic funds to taking bribes and money laundering.
Rethinking Australia's trade ties with Japan
Updated 14/09/2009 12:05:48
Despite all the hype about China's booming economy, the biggest market for Australian goods is Japan. It's a trade relationship that's well-established, but according to a leading Australian observer, there's a shift underway, and Australia needs to rethink it's trade policy if it wants to make the most of a Japan that's engaged with Asia.
Conflicting news for Australian economy
Updated 14/09/2009 12:05:48
There's conflicting news for the Australian economy. The number of people in jobs plunged by almost 30,000 in August, but the unemployment rate is not any worse.
International community fails Afghans over conduct of presidential pol
Updated 14/09/2009 12:05:49
United Nations-backed investigators are continuing to scrutinise ballots from the recent presidential election for evidence of fraud amid allegations of widespread election rigging. In the latest results update, the country's Independent Election Commission said President Hamid Karzai now has 54 percent of the votes, with his main challenger Abdullah Abdullah 28 percent, based on results from 93 percent of polling stations. A further, possibly final update is expected later today. But the results won't be certified as final until the complaints commission's investigations are complete.
New UN report points to good news on child health
Updated 14/09/2009 12:05:49
Advances in the area childhood vaccinations have led to fewer and fewer children dying unnecessarily. A landmark study conducted by the United Nations has found a significant decline in the number of children dying before their fifth birthday.
Language the key for foreign high school students in Australia
Updated 14/09/2009 12:05:48
There are concerns about a lack of support for international students in Australia's high schools, who may face difficulties breaking through cultural and language barriers.
Japan's new PM sticks to climate change target
Updated 11/09/2009 11:53:34
Japan's new leader Yukio Hatoyama hasn't even been officially sworn in yet but he's already made some big announcements. Earlier this week he said he would be standing by his election promise to cut Japan's greenhouse gas emissions by 25 per cent in the next 10 years from 1990 levels. But will this be a promise he can keep when his party, the Democratic Party of Japan, takes power later this month?
Australia lacks effective China policy, says former envoy
Updated 11/09/2009 11:53:34
The man who broke diplomatic ground in China for Australia has delivered a sharp critique of where the Rudd government has failed with Beijing. The relationship has stumbled on issues like China's Rio Tinto arrests, whether China's an emerging security threat, investment troubles and the Australian visit by Uighur leader Rabiya Kadeer. Dr Stephen FitzGerald says Canberra has no long term strategy with Beijing, the quality of its dialogue is deficient, and there are failures in the strategic management of relations.
'Phnom Penh Post' launches Khmer edition
Updated 11/09/2009 11:53:34
In Cambodia, the country's longest running English-language newspaper, the Phnom Penh Post - has launched a Khmer version this week, part of an ongoing expansion of the paper. The Phnom Penh Post began after the UN-led elections in the early 1990s, in a period of post-war turbulence, but the paper was taken over last year by a group of Australian businessmen with stakes in The Myanmar Times weekly.
Amnesty damns Japan's death row as cruel, inhuman
Updated 11/09/2009 11:53:34
The use of the death penalty is on the decline globally. Japan is one of the few industrialised countries to continue to use it, hanging a smalll number of prisoners each year. Amnesty International says the conditions for those on Japan's death row to be curel, inhuman and degrading.
Western energy concerns under fire over Burma gas project
Updated 11/09/2009 11:53:34
The environmental organisation EarthRights International has released two reports accusing Chevron and the French oil company Total of propping-up the Burmese military government, and misleading the public about forced labour and killings in their project area. The allegations center on the Yadana offshore gas project, which has a pipeline running across a part of southern Burma mainly inhabited by ethnic Karen people. The reports also claim billions of dollars earned from Total and Chevron are being hidden in Singaporean bank accounts.
Concern grows over role of civil defence units in southern Thailand
Updated 11/09/2009 11:53:35
As violence in Southern Thailand has escalated in recent years, one response has been the rise of civil defence organisations and village protection units to boost security. But it has triggered concerns among rights groups over a proliferation of weapons that adds to a climate of mistrust between Thai Buddhist and Muslim communities in the region.
Thousands of Afghan ballots scrapped
Updated 11/09/2009 11:53:35
The legitimacy of Afghanistan's Presidential poll has taken another hit with the country's Electoral Commission
cancelling more ballots because of evidence of electoral fraud. The thousands of ballots cam from three provinces, Paktika, Kandahar and Ghazi. It's the first time the Commission has scrapped votes, as controversy deepens around the flawed poll.
Australia-Indonesia relations tested over Campos investigation
Updated 11/09/2009 11:53:35
Australia-Indonesia relations are being tested as the Australian Federal Police conduct a war crimes investigation into the deaths of five Australian-based journalists killed at Balibo in 1975 and now there's pressure over the case of Guy Campos, accused for crimes carried out in East Timor in the 1990s. He's also being investigated by the Australian Federal Police and is currently in Australia.
Indonesian president issues warning over new Balibo probe
Updated 11/09/2009 11:53:35
Indonesia's President, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has warned that relations with Australia may be harmed if the Australian Federal Police pursue a fresh investigation into the 1975 deaths of five Australian-based journalists in East Timor.
The five journalists were killed in the East Timorese border town of Balibo, allegedly as part of a cover-up of Indonesia's invasion of the former Portugese colony.
Testing time for Japanese gangsters
Updated 11/09/2009 11:53:34
They're members of the biggest baddest organised crime group in Japan, but these tattooed gangsters are being sent back to school by their godfathers. Under new laws, mob bosses can be sued for the misdeeds of their underlings. So the leaders of the feared Yamaguchi Gumi have begun testing their mobsters' knowledge of the laws. They've drawn up a twelve page test paper which questions them on a range of banned activities, from boot-legging fuel to dumping industrial waste.
We sell education, not visas, says Australian trade minister
Updated 10/09/2009 12:13:30
Australia's Trade Minister says his government must work together with the Indian government to stop students applying for courses primarily as a 'backdoor' to Australian residency.
Indian business leader calls for more Australian investment aid
Updated 10/09/2009 12:13:30
A leading Indian businessman says Australia's efforts to reassure foreign students have been 'sincere' and much-appreciated in New Delhi. But he's calling for more support from the Australian government to overseas investors, after spending two years developing a multi-million dollar agri-business project.
Indonesian movie maker condemn new film law
Updated 10/09/2009 12:13:30
Indonesian film makers say their right to freedom of expression has been crushed with the passage of a controversial film law by the country's House of Representatives. The bill contains guidelines for film content and allows the government to control the distribution of films and development of the industry.
'Frontline state' Maldives views tourist green tax
Updated 10/09/2009 12:13:30
Maldives is a country that's severely threatened by rising sea levels because of global warming. But the island nation cannot afford to send its president to the United Nations climate change summit in Copenhagen this December. President Mohamed Nasheed says he'll only go if someone else pays for the trip. He says the Maldives is a 'frontline state' when it comes to climate change and that it needs help. But it will also be looking to help itself, with a possible new 'green tax' of three dollars per tourist per day.
Refugee advocates win eight year battle in Australia
Updated 10/09/2009 12:13:30
Refugee advocates in Australia have won an eight year battle to allow some of the most vulnerable people who arrive in the country refugee protection - people who face the threat of torture, inhuman treatment or execution if returned to their own country. But they often don't meet any of the five grounds for declaring a person a refugee, including persecution because of race, religion or nationality, political opinion or membership of a particular social group. Now, Australia will change that.
Balibo war crimes probe can expect 'rocky road' ahead
Updated 10/09/2009 12:13:30
Australia's Federal Police have been left with little option but to proceed with the Balibo five investigation because an earlier coronial inquiry. But war crime extradition matters always raise heightened political sensitivities.
Australia concedes Indonesia 'surprised' over of Balibo inquiry
Updated 10/09/2009 12:13:30
Australia says its relationship with Indonesia is mature enough to cope with the announcement of a new investigation into the Balibo killings, despite the initial bemused reaction from Jakarta.
Australia opens Balibo war crimes investigation
Updated 10/09/2009 12:13:31
In a case that is set to test diplomatic relations, Australia has begun a war crimes investigation into the killing of journalists by Indonesian troops in East Timor 34 years ago. Five Australian journalists were killed at the start of Indonesia's invasion of East Timor in 1975. An Australian inquest in 2007 found Indonesian troops had murdered the men to prevent them reporting the news of the invasion. The Indonesian Government says it will be seeking clarification of the investigation but has no interest in reopening the case itself.
Indian film stars take disability challenge
Updated 10/09/2009 12:13:30
India's film industry - known around the world as Bollywood - owes much of its success to a tried and tested formula, but that may be about to change. Instead of following the traditional romance and fantasy themes three major films currently under production feature storylines based around characters with disabilities. 'My name is Khan' stars one of the industry's most bankable talents Shahrukh Khan as a man who has Asperger's syndrome and 'Guzaarish' is based around a character who uses a wheelchair.
Reports of newspapers death greatly exaggerated, says consultant
Updated 10/09/2009 12:13:30
Media executives from around the world are gathering in Australia to discuss the future of newspapers at an event hosted by the Pacific Area Newspaper Publishers Association.
Japan's new govt a fresh chance for anti-whaling lobby
Updated 09/09/2009 12:02:43
Anti-whaling activists see a chance in Japan's new government to stop the country's whaling program.
NKorea says it is testing uranium enrichment process
Updated 09/09/2009 12:02:43
Claims from North Korea that it is in the 'final stages' in tests to enrich uranium have raised concerns across the region.
Vietnam, Australia sign new partnership document
Updated 09/09/2009 12:02:43
Australia's prime minister Kevin Rudd and Vietnam's Communist Party chief Nong Duc Manh have signed a comprehensive partnership document, and both sides are keen to extend what is already a substantial relationship.
Burma pipe project provokes mounting opposition
Updated 09/09/2009 12:02:43
The construction of a 4,000 kilometer oil and gas pipeline linking Burma's natural gas supplies and shipping route to China will cause unrest, according to a group opposed to the pipeline. The Shwe Gas Movement is a group of exiled Burmese people living in Bangladesh, India and Thailand. They've just release a report called 'Corridor of Power' warning that the estimated 1.2 billion US dollars a year that's expected to go to Burma, will mostly fund the military and stir up trouble along the route.
Burma steps up fight against drugs and militia
Updated 09/09/2009 12:02:43
Burma has been trying to seize control over an area on its border with China, but to do that it'll have to fully control local militia, which have no shortage of members, money or guns. They are thought to be part of a thriving drugs trade with surrounding countries in the 'golden triangle'. Authorities in neighbouring countries have struggled to contain the movement of drugs and many blame Burma for not enforcing the law.
Timor parliament stops president's travel plans
Updated 09/09/2009 12:02:43
Members of parliament in East Timor have voted against a request from the president Jose Ramos Horta to travel to the United States - to attend the United Nations general assembly - and then Europe. The East Timorese parliament is required to approve foreign trips by high officials. It's thought the result from this parliamentary vote was a show of opposition to Jose Ramos Horta's stance on certain questions of human rights, including the recent release to Indonesian authorities of Martenus Bere, who is accused of abuses in 1999.
Afghan president avoids election run off, but questions remain
Updated 09/09/2009 12:02:43
President Hamid Karzai has passed the 50 per cent of votes needed to avoid a run off in Afghanistan's Presidential election. But his apparent victory is clouded in uncertainty. The United Nations backed Electoral Complaints Commission says it now has clear and convincing evidence of electoral fraud.
Australian actor Ray Barrett's final curtain
Updated 09/09/2009 12:02:43
Australian actor, Ray Barrett, who enjoyed great success overseas and who came home to play an important role in the resurgence of the local film industry, has died after falling at home.
Climate change reforms could help protect Sumatran tigers
Updated 09/09/2009 12:02:43
Indonesia's Sumatran tigers are on the verge of extinction, with deforestation and poaching threatening to wipe out the fewer than the 400 tigers remaining in the wild.
More allegations against Australian education providers emerge
Updated 08/09/2009 10:55:52
As Australia continues its efforts to restore its dented international reputation as an education provider, more damaging allegations against private colleges have emerged. International students say they were forced to pay in advance for courses which, in the end they never received, when their colleges suddenly closed.
Australia's Indian charm offensive continues
Updated 08/09/2009 10:55:52
The campaign to save Australia's international education market continues with the Australian Treasurer Wayne Swan visiting New Delhi this week. Mr Swan is also using the trip to bolster Australia's economic ties with india ahead of a possible free trade agreement.
Australian visit by Vietnam's communist leader stirs opposition
Updated 08/09/2009 10:55:52
The visit of Vietnam's Communist Party leader to Australia is stirring passions within the country's refugee community. The general secretary is in Canberra for talks with the Australian government about issues like trade and people-trafficking.
But Vietnamese refugees say it's completely inappropriate that he's being treated like a head of state.
US and Vietnam meet for Agent Orange talks
Updated 08/09/2009 10:55:52
During the Vietnam War, the US sprayed millions of liters of herbicides, including Agent Orange, to kill trees and reveal their enemies but ever since, a poisonous ingredient - dioxin - has caused health problems on both sides of the conflict. Talks between US and Vietnamese officials over how best to deal with the deadly legacy of Agent Orange, have now resumed.
UN calls for debt relief for poorer nations
Updated 08/09/2009 10:55:52
The United Nations is calling for low income countries to be given a temporary moratorium on their debts to help economic recovery. The UN Conference on Trade and Development or UNCTAD says there are double standards applied against poorer nations by the powerful. It criticises the IMF in particular for placing tough conditions on loans to the developing world at a time when the need for government stimulus has been repeated as recently as the G20 meeting at the weekend.
Ferry sinking prompts oil spill alert in Philippines
Updated 08/09/2009 10:55:53
The Philippines has a long history of ferry accidents - but that makes it no less significant that the country has seen two of its ferries go down in as many days. The first, run by Super Ferry, had almost a thousand people onboard, most of whom were rescued. But at least nine people are dead. And now there's the added risk of an oil spill, where the ferry went down.
Indonesia welcomes quake relief from foreign agencies
Updated 08/09/2009 10:55:53
Indonesia continues to shake, with yet another earthquake. This time, it was a magnitude 6.1, off the coast of Java. But there's no immediate reports of injury, major property damage or tsunami. The latest quake comes as relief efforts continue across west Java, after last week's magnitude-7 earthquake that killed more than 70 people and destroyed thousands of homes and other buildings.
Australian PM to push Asia bloc vision in December
Updated 08/09/2009 10:55:53
The Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd wants to push ahead with his vision for an Asia Pacific Community at a regional conference this December. A steering committee of prominent diplomats and academics held its first meeting in Canberra last week to plan for a conference from December 4. There's another preparatory meeting planned for early October. But some observers say Mr Rudd's vision still lacks clarity and that that is its biggest obstacle - and Japan's change in government also presents a new issue to deal with.
Taiwan's Premier quits over typhoon response
Updated 08/09/2009 10:55:53
Taiwan's premier has taken political responsibility for his government's poor handling of Typhoon Morakot. The typhoon swept through the country last month, leaving more than 700 people dead or missing. There's been widespread criticism of the government's response to the disaster and Premier Liu Chao-shiuan says other ministers are preparing to resign later this week.
Humanitarian emergency looms in Sri Lanka camps
Updated 08/09/2009 10:55:53
Sri Lanka says it is reviewing an earlier decision to expel the spokesman for the United Nations children's agency, UNICEF. The foreign secretary, Palitha Kohona, says he is holding discussions with UNICEF about the situation of James Elder, who has been told to leave Sri Lanka within two weeks. The government has accused Mr Elder of making statements on behalf of Tamil Tiger rebels. The UN says it fully supports James Elder and stands by his statements about the plight of Tamil civilians held in camps since the end of the civil war. And the UN has also issued another warning about the dangers in the camps as the monsoon approaches.
Teams warm up for new ASEAN basketball league
Updated 08/09/2009 10:55:52
Basketball, Asia's second most popular sport, is set to get a boost after the launch of the ASEAN Basketball League. The ABL brings together teams from Indonesia, Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand for a series of matches starting in October.
Australia changes visas to protect skilled workers
Updated 07/09/2009 11:36:06
Australian businesses that want to bring in skilled workers on what are known locally as '457 visas' will have to be prepared to pay them market wages from next week.
HIV risks highest for marginalised Asians
Updated 07/09/2009 11:36:06
Across Asia, it's estimated that sex workers make up somewhere between 0.2 and 2.6 per cent of adult women, and these women face high risks of sexually transmitted infections, HIV and unwanted pregnancies.
China, Australia iron ore talks 'have stopped'
Updated 07/09/2009 11:36:06
The headlines may have subsided but the fate of the Australian steel executive Stern Hu continues through China's legal processes.
Thai military attempts to win southern hearts and minds
Updated 07/09/2009 11:36:06
A spate of bombings and shootings in Thailand's largely Muslim Southern Provinces has left more than a dozen dead and scores injured.
UN report warns Afghanistan must control drugs trade
Updated 07/09/2009 11:36:06
After eight years of war in Afghanistan and a recent election marred by fraud, two things remain constant in the country - violence and drugs.
Xinjiang remains tense over syringe attacks
Updated 07/09/2009 11:36:07
Chinese authorities have moved to calm tensions in the north-western Xinjiang region, after a string of syringe stabbings in the capital of Urumqi.
UN agency spokesman ordered out of Sri Lanka
Updated 07/09/2009 11:36:07
An Australian working for the United Nations has been ordered to leave Sri Lanka.
Coastal clean up as 'island of rubbish' grows
Updated 07/09/2009 11:36:06
An 'island of rubbish' the size of Texas is floating in the North Pacific ocean and experts say there could be worse to come.
Indonesia and Malaysia clash over cultural ownership
Updated 07/09/2009 11:36:06
Indonesia has accused Malaysia of stealing its cultural heritage after a Balinese dance was used in a promotional video for Malaysia and allegations that the countries national anthem was originally written by a Javanese music group.
Garuda rejects price-fixing allegations
Updated 04/09/2009 11:53:18
Indonesia's national airline Garuda says it will vigorously defend allegations it used price-fixing to out-bid rival airlines for five years. Australia's consumer watchdog, the ACCC, has launched a legal action against the carrier, claiming it fixed the price of a fuel and security surcharge from 2001.
Indonesia works on disaster preparedness
Updated 04/09/2009 11:53:18
Indonesia is no stranger to earthquakes, and the major disasters of 2004 and 2006 has seen government and non-government focus much more on preparation.
US and Australia look to closer military links with China
Updated 04/09/2009 11:53:18
Relations between Australia and China in recent months have been somewhat frosty. China's arrest of Rio Tinto executive Stern Hu for a series of charges including alleged bribery, which came just after the failed takeover of Rio by Chinalco, have made for a rocky time.Beijing was angered even more when Canberra granted a visa to exiled Uighur leader Rebiya Kadeer
However it would seem that when it comes to military matters, Australia and the US are looking to closer ties with the emerging power.
Khmer Rouge tribunal may widen investigations
Updated 04/09/2009 11:53:18
Cambodia's war crimes tribunal has indicates it might investigate another five or six senior Khmer Rouge leaders for their part in the genocide of the 1970s. Five top officials are currently being prosecuted and the trial for the first, Duch, the chief of the torture prison Tuol Sleng, or S-21 is underway.
Karzai reelection a boost for the Taliban, says former top envoy
Updated 04/09/2009 11:53:18
As American public opinion turns against the war, a former top UN and EU official with long experience in Afghanistan, says the country deserves one last chance. But he says the situation will be made worse if incumbent Hamid Karzai is returned to power after last month's presidential election -- a poll marred by widespread allegations of vote rigging
Concern as support for Afghan war wanes in United States
Updated 04/09/2009 11:53:18
As the US military decides whether to ask its President for more troops in Afghanistan, public support for the conflict is waning, as American casualties rise and confidence in the Afghan Government of President Hamid Karzai slips. The outcome of last month's presidential election in Afghanistan still isn't known and allegations of widespread fraud abound.
Quake aid slow getting through
Updated 04/09/2009 11:53:19
Among the aid groups providing relief to the earthquake victims is World Vision. It says help has been slow getting through. Food, water and shelter among the items of immediate need.
Many children among Java quake victims
Updated 04/09/2009 11:53:19
The rescue and relief effort is continuing grow in West Java after Wednesday's powerful earthquake. Dozens of people are dead, and thousands of houses have been destroyed or badly damaged. One of the worst hit areas is the village of Cingkakareng, where the hillside fell away and crushed the houses below.
Japan's political dead return to life
Updated 04/09/2009 11:53:18
Despite the defeat of Liberal Democratic Party in Japan's national elections, some candidates may find their political careers being resurrected. They're being dubbed political "zombies". Professor Jeff Kingston, from Temple University in Tokyo explains why these politicians are coming back to life.
India buying into Australia's coal
Updated 04/09/2009 11:53:18
India is in line to buy vast amounts of Australian coal. An Indian cabinet minister is on a special mission to Australia to help satisfy India's urgent energy needs, and he's been visiting coal mines in the eastern states of New South Wales and Queensland.
Australian education minister warmly received by Indian PM
Updated 03/09/2009 11:07:44
Australian deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard has met with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in New Delhi, describing the meeting as "warm and constructive"
More help needed for Burmese in Malaysia: Amnesty
Updated 03/09/2009 11:07:44
Amnesty International is calling for more assistance to be given to the estimated 90,000 Burmese asylum seekers living illegally in Malaysia.
Asia's manufacturing industries still under threat
Updated 03/09/2009 11:07:44
The Australian economy has been confirmed as the best performer in the developed world amid the global slowdown - better than expected GDP growth in the June quarter means the economy expanded by 0.6 per cent in the past year.
Anger greets outcome of Cambodian acid attack case
Updated 03/09/2009 11:07:44
Cambodian human rights groups have criticised the court's handling of an acid attack case, allegedly involving a senior policewoman and the family of her beauty-queen lover.
Doubts over evidence against Bali bomber
Updated 03/09/2009 11:07:45
American authorities are reportedly concerned over whether they have the evidence to charge the Indonesian terrorist suspect, Hambali, who is thought to have been behind the 2002 Bali bombings. Some US officials doubt that evidence obtained from Hambali would stand up in court because it may have been extracted by methods of torture. But Australia says Hambali must face trial.
Death toll expected to rise after Indonesian quake
Updated 03/09/2009 11:07:45
In Indonesia, dozens of people have been killed in a powerful earthquake off the island of Java and authorities say the death toll is likely to rise. The quake destroyed more than a thousand homes and shook buildings in the capital, Jakarta. A tsunami alert was issued but later withdrawn, as seas rose only 20 cm and caused no damage.
Australian port torn between iron exports and tuna
Updated 03/09/2009 11:07:44
A row is brewing in South Australia over a proposal to ship iron ore to China out of Port Lincoln's harbour.
Promises of change to Japan's hereditary politics
Updated 03/09/2009 11:07:44
In the wake of Japan's national elections, the Prime Minister, Yukio Hatoyama is promising to change the culture of hereditary politics.
Australian government backs Cocos Island language rights
Updated 02/09/2009 12:02:12
Australia's Home Affairs Minister has visited the remote Indian Ocean territory of the Cocos Islands in a bid to calm recent community tensions and help get vital economic initiatives underway. Language issues and a pay dispute, along with the defacing of a community sign recently, saw the Muslim, Cocos Malay-majority offended, fuelling claims of neo-colonialist attitudes among some white community members.
Australia's deputy PM continues Indian charm offensive
Updated 02/09/2009 12:02:12
Australia's Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard is in New Delhi, speaking to India's Prime Minister about Australia's response to a spate of attacks on international students. More Australian ministers are due to visit India in a bid to repair Australia's dented reputation.
US worries over Pakistan's AQ Khan
Updated 02/09/2009 12:02:12
The man known in Pakistan as the father of the country's nuclear bomb, Abdul Qadeer Khan, has had all restrictions on his movements withdrawn by the country's courts. The 72-year-old has admitted leaking nuclear secrets to Iran, North Korea and Libya and has spent five years under house arrest. He was declared a free man in February - a move criticised by the United States... and a spokesman for the US Department of State said this week that A-Q Khan "remains a serious proliferation risk".
Vietnam marks independence day with prisoner release
Updated 02/09/2009 12:02:12
The Vietnamese Government has announced it will release 5,500 prisoners, in an amnesty to mark the country's national day. Vietnam celebrates September 2nd as the end of Japanese occupation in 1945, despite the return of the French as colonisers for another decade. The day also coincides with the official date of the death of Ho Chi Minh - the Communist Party hero of Vietnam's independence. But for some in the Vietnamese community living in Australia, they say there's little to celebrate.
UN envoy calls for probe into Sri Lanka killings video
Updated 02/09/2009 12:02:12
The UN's Special Representative on Extra-judicial Executions has called for an investigation into a video which appears to show Sri Lankan troops shooting blind-folded Tamil prisoners. The footage, filmed on a mobile phone camera, was provided to British media by a group called Journalists for Democracy in Sri Lanka, which campaigns for press freedom. The spokesman for the Sri Lankan army has said the video is a fabrication designed to discredit security forces.
UN anger over Dili's release of former militia leader
Updated 02/09/2009 12:02:13
United Nations has expressed anger over the release of former militia leader Martenus Bere into Indonesian custody in Dili.
Indonesia's embassy in Dili has confirmed that it's negotiating for his deportation from East Timor. Bere, an Indonesian citizen is accused of directing the Suai massacre in 1999, that saw at least 40 East Timorese killed.
East Timor's PM denies corruption allegations
Updated 02/09/2009 12:02:13
East Timor's Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao, has defended himself against allegations he broke his country's laws by signing a contract with a company his daughter had a stake in.
Australia boosts bid to host international telescope project
Updated 02/09/2009 12:02:12
The International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research has been officially launched in the West Australian capital, Perth, in a bid to secure the world's biggest telescope array for Australia. The Square Kilometre Array project is the world's biggest astronomy program.
It involves the construction of receiver dishes across thousands of kilometres. Australia and South Africa are the front-runners to be the hosts.
Thai pharmacist recognised for generic drug work
Updated 02/09/2009 12:02:12
Thailand's Dr Krisana Kraisintu is one of the winners of this year's Ramon Magsaysay Award and the first pharmacist to have received the honour. She has specialised in the creation of cheap, generic anti-retroviral drugs used in the treatment of people living with HIV/AIDS.
US commander delivers stark Afghan review
Updated 01/09/2009 11:56:27
America's top military man in Afghanistan has delivered a much-anticipated review of the eight year old war. General Stanley McChrystal says the situation is "serious" but that the war can still be won.
Japan's new leader faces tough task
Updated 01/09/2009 11:56:27
Japan's new Government has promised to boost household incomes and help the poor, end government waste and reduce the large budget deficit. But Prime Minister-designate Yukio Hatoyama faces a difficult task in his bid to introduce change to Japan.
Australia's deputy PM launches public relations blitz
Updated 01/09/2009 11:56:27
Australia is mounting a high-level public relations campaign to help repair Australia's battered image as a destination for Indian students.
Three senior ministers are visiting New Delhi over the next week, with deputy prime minister Julia Gillard the first to arrive.
Australia considers 'gold class' visas for athletes
Updated 01/09/2009 11:54:36
The Australian Government has turned its attention to the quest for gold at the winter Olympics in Vancouver next year and the summer games in London in 2012. Rather than just throw money at the Australian Olympic Committee to produce results, it's changing the migration laws to make it easier for elite foreign-born athletes to represent Australia. The Government is also taking another look at the broader migration program, by developing a longer-term strategic approach to the country's annual migrant intake.
Indonesia looks at costly plan to slash carbon emissions
Updated 01/09/2009 11:54:36
Indonesia says it could cut its carbon emissions by more than 40 per cent by 2030, by reducing deforestation, peatland degradation and power use.
Climate change threatens south Asia's water sources
Updated 01/09/2009 11:54:36
There's mounting concern in South Asia over the impact of climate change on the region's water supply. The Himalayas are the source of rivers which flow throughout south Asia and it's thought that melting glaciers, caused by climate change could see them run dry in years to come. A two-day gathering of regional delegates -- dubbed 'Kathmandu to Copenhagan' -- is under way in Nepal.
India plans to let in foreign universities
Updated 01/09/2009 11:54:36
As Australia's Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard tours India, a plan for India to allow foreign universities to operate on Indian soil has emerged.
Sri Lankan journalist convicted of terrorism charges
Updated 01/09/2009 11:54:36
A Sri Lankan journalist has been convicted of terrorism charges and jailed for 20 years, but international human rights groups say it's a case of the government trying to silence critics. J.S. Tissainayagam was detained last year and accused of inciting violence in articles for the now-defunct North Eastern Monthly. He was also accused of accepting money to fund a website aimed at the Tamil community.
China pushes Burma to stabilise rebel region
Updated 01/09/2009 11:54:36
China says Burma's north east appears to be calm after renewed fighting between Burmese government forces and rebel militia groups. The fighting, which is ostensibly part of an attempt by the military regime to take control of the area ahead of next year's planned elections, has forced tens of thousands of civilians to flee into China's Yunnan province.
Afghan Taliban shows administrative flair
Updated 01/09/2009 11:54:37
One of Washington's top counter-insurgency advisers has warned that the Taliban is ready to take over the government in Afghanistan, with a successful local court network in the country's south, tax collection operations and a new Taliban Ombudsman's office, all directly challenging Kabul's rule. David Kilcullen is an adviser to US General Stanley McCrystal and says that while Afghan authorities have been flooded with allegations of fraud after last week's presidential election establishing a legitimate leadership will be the most important question facing the Afghanistan operation right now. Dr Kilcullen addressed Canberra's National Press Club.
