Albanese lands in Singapore
Anthony Albanese stated that Singapore and Australia are "strategically aligned" on fuel and energy matters ahead of his scheduled meeting with Lawrence Wong later today.
However, the Australian prime minister cautioned that the conflict in the Middle East would have "a long tail," indicating a challenging period ahead.
"There’s been substantial damage in the Gulf and that will have consequences for a period of at least months ahead."
Albanese is set to meet his Singaporean counterpart for their annual leaders’ meeting, followed by a joint press conference this afternoon. Prior to the press conference, Albanese will tour petrol refining facilities on Jurong Island.
Upon arriving in Singapore last night, Albanese emphasized the importance of the partnership between the two countries, noting that Singapore supplies approximately a quarter of Australia’s refined fuels, while Australia provides about a third of Singapore’s liquefied natural gas (LNG).
"We share values and we share a relationship of trust between each other. And that is why it’s so important that at difficult times in the world we can rely upon each other."
It remains uncertain whether Albanese’s meeting will directly result in securing new fuel supplies for Australia, but he highlighted the significance of strengthening the bilateral relationship.
"This is a relationship of trust and of mutual interest as well. We know that it is in both of our countries’ interests to engage with each other to make sure that we are both reliable suppliers.
We have each other’s word and indeed we have each other’s back at this time."
Greens say coalmine extension risks flouting climate laws
A state Greens MP has expressed concerns that the approval of a coalmine extension may contravene climate laws, according to AAP.
MP Sue Higginson stated:
"The state’s top legal minds are clear that any new coal is inconsistent with the current law."
"It is therefore highly likely that if tested, this coal approval would be declared unlawful.
I have no doubt that environmental defenders will be considering heading to the courts right now, to uphold the climate and environmental laws of the state."
The NSW net zero commission reported in December that any increase in coal mining activity would conflict with the climate change act and the Paris agreement.
Although the mine has been approved for two additional years of operation, its operator, Delta Power and Energy, did not receive all the requested approvals.
The commission rejected the application to permit coal exports from the mine, primarily due to concerns that increased emissions from trucks transporting coal to the Port of Newcastle would adversely affect local residents.
NSW gives coalmine green light to operate for two extra years
A large underground coalmine has been authorized to continue operations for an additional two years, as it is scheduled to cease activity just before the state’s net zero targets take effect, AAP reports.
The NSW independent planning commission approved the proposal to extend the lifespan of the consolidated Chain Valley and Mannering coalmines, located south of Newcastle, until the end of 2029.
The commission indicated that the extension is necessary to maintain supply to the nearby Vales Point power station "during NSW’s transition to renewable energy."
Legislated emissions reduction targets for the state commence in 2030, meaning that coal extracted from the mine during the extension period will not be included in those assessments, the commission stated on Thursday.
Good morning, and happy Friday. Nick Visser here to continue the blog. Let’s proceed.
Search for missing fisher suspended
The search for a fisher who went missing in waters off Coffs Harbour has been suspended, police reported last night.
Emergency services responded to Emerald Beach, Coffs Harbour, on Monday after reports that a 32-year-old man had been washed off rocks while fishing.
Coffs Harbour water police, supported by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, conducted an extensive search over the past four days but were unable to locate the individual. The operation was suspended yesterday afternoon.
Water police and other agencies will continue to monitor the waters off Emerald Beach in the coming days.
Good morning and welcome to our live news blog. I’m Martin Farrer with the top overnight stories, after which Nick Visser will take over the news coverage.
Anthony Albanese has stated that Singapore and Australia are "strategically aligned" on fuel and energy ahead of his meeting with Lawrence Wong later today. More details will follow shortly.
Locally, the search for a fisher who disappeared in waters off Coffs Harbour has been suspended, according to police. Further information will be provided.
