25 August 2026

Australia’s lobbying rules ignore most lobbyists. It’s time for an overhaul

Downunder Voices Newsroom

The current system allows powerful actors to attempt to influence government decision-making covertly. To improve transparency, here are four key reforms.

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Far-right leader echoes ally Donald Trump and says operations to ‘track down illegal immigrants’ should begin this week, amid earthquake aftermath Colombia’s far-right president, Abelardo de la Espriella, has announced a crackdown on immigrants, ordering authorities to detain and deport people who are in the country irregularly or have committed crimes. In office for just over two weeks, the millionaire former lawyer made the announcement on Sunday as the country continued to grapple with the aftermath of a 7. 4-magnitude earthquake on 10 August that killed more than 300 people and destroyed more than 30,000 homes.

Source: The Guardian WorldOriginal source

New Zealand

25 August 2026

Labour yet to reveal a position on an under-16s social media ban

Labour's leader Chris Hipkins has committed his party to reaching a position before the election, but indicated that would not be happening immediately.

Source: https://www.rnz.co.nz/rss/news.xmlOriginal source

New Zealand

25 August 2026

Date and location locked in for Laneway Festival 2027

There's no line up yet, but fans aged over-18 can circle Sunday 21 February in their calendar for the event at Western Springs Bowl.

Source: https://www.rnz.co.nz/rss/news.xmlOriginal source

Australia’s lobbying rules ignore most lobbyists. It’s time for an overhaul

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