Walks

• Canada has reversed its plan to increase the Canadian-content levy for U.S.-based audiovisual streaming services. • The decision was announced on Wednesday, June 3, by Marc Miller, the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages. • This policy shift impacts how streaming platforms contribute to the funding of domestic content, potentially reducing the financial burden on foreign services.

• President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. officially assumed the leadership of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) after receiving the gavel from Malaysia's Anwar Ibrahim in October. • The Philippines faces a challenging tenure focused on managing South China Sea diplomacy, finalizing a regional digital economy agreement, and executing a dense administrative agenda. • Success for Manila depends on its ability to transition ASEAN from a consultative body into a more operational and effective organization.

Liberal frontbencher says he has ‘no interest’ in forming a coalition with Pauline Hanson’s party – a day after suggesting he might be open to itFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe shadow treasurer, Tim Wilson, has said he would “never, ever, ever” support a coalition government with One Nation, walking back previous comments that left the door open to such an arrangement.Urging the Liberals to “get on with” setting out what they stand for, Wilson joined other senior party figures in rejecting any partnership with the rightwing populist party. Continue reading...

Michael Jackson biopic has shrugged off controversy, bad reviews and a troubled production to take $217m worldwide, including $97m in North AmericaMichael, the big-budget Michael Jackson biopic, has shrugged off bad reviews and a troubled production to launch with a $97m opening in North American theaters, contributing to its enormous $217m (£160m, A$303m) worldwide box office and shattering the record for the biggest biopic opening of all time.The film, a highly authorised portrayal of the “king of pop” that was co-produced by the Jackson estate and stars Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson, took $120.4m internationally and $97m domestic – combining to surpass Oppenheimer’s $180.4m worldwide opening weekend in 2023 and Bohemian Rhapsody’s $124m in 2018. Continue reading...

Lelia Doolan, who finished 220km trek at parliament gates, says use of Shannon airport violates Irish neutralityA 91-year-old peace activist has crossed Ireland on foot and arrived in Dublin to petition the government to bar US military flights.Lelia Doolan completed a two-week, 220km trek on Wednesday, ending at the gates of parliament accompanied by throngs of supporters. Continue reading...