The state opposition and sections of the business community have criticised the state government’s “skeleton” of a COVID-19 transition plan, with Western Australia still without a date for the reopening of borders.
Australian share market investors had their biggest day of buying in more than four weeks before the US Federal Reserve prepares to wind back economic stimulus.
Westpac has unveiled a $3.5 billion share buyback after posting a surge in annual earnings on the back of a strong home loans market and lower provisions.
Crown Resorts shares rocketed after the company retained its Melbourne casino licence while investors barely nudged the Aussie market before Wednesday's inflation data.
Shares on the ASX closed at their highest level in more than 26 days while this week's inflation data may help the Aussie dollar to its highest position since July.
The federal government is playing up its partnership with Telstra to buy a South Pacific mobile and broadband company as a sign of its commitment to the region.