This paper updates an earlier chronology published in July 2022 and outlines developments in the regulatory framework for fuel quality, noxious (in-service) emissions and vehicle efficiency standards in Australia, principally over the last 2 decades to July 2024.

The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) are 3 significant trade and economic initiatives with a considerable impact on the Indo-Pacific region. While each of them has distinct memberships, goals and areas of focus, there are some areas of overlap. These initiatives underscore the complex dynamics of contemporary international trade relations and economic policy, particularly in a region as economically vibrant and diverse as the Indo-Pacific.

The July 2024 NATO Summit marked 75 years of the alliance. Founded to deter Soviet aggression by committing its members to collective defence, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has been revitalised by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. NATO’s membership has increased to 32 states – Sweden and Finland joined in 2024 – and several European powers have increased defence spending to 2% of GDP, in line with NATO guidelines. With the possible return of Donald Trump to the White House in 2025, the alliance is seeking to strengthen its position given Trump’s statements about not supporting NATO members who don’t reach the 2% defence spending guideline.