Page 7 - Robert Simms News Today

The Liberal Opposition is poised to back an Upper House inquiry into the deal to merge the universities of Adelaide and South Australia, as details of the business case remain under wraps amid warning that delays in passing merger legislation could cost the state hundreds of millions.

South Australias two biggest universities have signed an historic agreement that will see them become one ...

Ahead of an expected weekend announcement on a plan to merge the universities of Adelaide and South Australia, key Upper House crossbenchers say they're currently opposed while the Liberal Party says it won't give the Malinauskas Government a “blank cheque” on passing legislation needed for amalgamation.

Peak industry bodies and unions have responded to the Malinauskas Government's second State Budget, saying it delivered in some areas but failed in others.

Equality advocates hoped the reaction from the Orthodox Church and broader Greek Australian community would be greater acceptance of LGBTIQI people.

South Australia's parliament has passed laws increasing the fine and adding jail time for obstructing a public place in response to Extinction Rebellion protests in Adelaide. But legal experts have raised questions about the wording of the law and its potential consequences.

The South Australian government has passed legislation to lift protest fines after a marathon debate 14-hour debate.

Upper house MPs spent all night debating the laws, which will significantly increase potential penalties for people who engage in disruptive protests.

The Malinauskas Government's bill to lift fines for obstructing a public place from $750 to $50,000 or three months jail in the wake of a traffic-stopping protest has passed the Upper House and will become law after a marathon 14 hour overnight debate.

UPDATED: The Malinauskas Government has defended itself against fierce union and crossbench criticism after its law introducing hugely increased penalties for obstructive protest passed the Upper House, calling it a "victory for common sense" as a national human rights group flags a possible High Court challenge.