The Vuvale Union represents a significant milestone in Fiji–Australia relations, reaffirming both countries’ dedication to a cooperative, Pacific-led approach to regional peace and security.
“These could include more generous payment plans, remission of interest and penalties, and also support in various [pay as you go] instalments where there’s been a downturn in taxable income,”
The biggest change for consumers will be the removal of surcharges on debit, prepaid and credit cards across the designated eftpos, Mastercard and Visa networks from 1 October 2026.
Under the Fair Work Act 2009, courts can impose substantial penalties for sham contracting, including fines of up to $19,800 for individuals and as much as $495,000 for larger businesses, or three times the amount underpaid.
In one case cited by authorities, a victim lost $350,000 in cryptocurrency within 18 hours after being convinced their digital wallet had been compromised.
Eligible projects include community hubs and centres, museums, libraries and art spaces, meeting and conference facilities, performance spaces and sporting areas.
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.
AFP officials say both matters were investigated by National Security Investigations (NSI) teams, established in October 2025 to target individuals and groups engaging in behaviour that threatens Australia’s social cohesion.
