Australia Spy Case: A tribunal has ordered parts of a late-November hearing over the alleged 2004 bugging of Timor-Leste’s government to be held in public, a win for former senator Rex Patrick’s campaign to access records. Australia still refuses to confirm whether the operation or related documents exist. Digital Payments: Timor-Leste’s Council of Ministers approved a draft decree requiring businesses to offer electronic payments, with six months to comply after the rules take effect. Street vendors and businesses in remote areas without the needed infrastructure would be exempt. Greater Sunrise: With Woodside exiting the gas project and selling its stake to state-owned Timor GAP for $200 million, the government is seeking an international operator to keep development on track for first gas in 2034. Manganese Exports: Estrella Resources agreed to sell 27,000 tonnes from its Ira Miri project, a first commercial step for its joint venture with Timorese partner Murak Rai.