A seasoned diplomat, Roberts previously served as Deputy Head of Mission at the Australian Embassy in Tokyo and was Ambassador to Timor-Leste from 2018 to 2022.
By combining the strengths, networks, and resources of both organisations, the agreement is set to offer practical benefits to businesses across both countries.
Under the plan, free trains, trams and buses — originally due to end in April — will now continue until June 1. From that date, fares will be reduced by 50 per cent through to the end of 2026.
The constitutional amendment fell short of the required two-thirds majority, with 298 MPs voting in favour and 230 against, marking a rare legislative setback for the government.
The operation, led by the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure alongside WA Police and the Australian Federal Police, targeted more than 100 vehicles over four hours at Perth Airport.
