Vietnam–Australia ties: General Secretary and State President To Lam arrived in Sydney to kick off a four-day state visit, with trade already above US$14bn and science/tech flagged as a new pillar for cooperation. ICT & telecom policy: Vietnam’s banking and digital-economy lawmakers discussed safeguards for the financial system and support for emerging digital activities, while separate regional coverage highlights how governments are pushing connectivity, digital public infrastructure and AI-ready skills. Banking regulation: Vietnam’s National Assembly is set to fast-track 15 bills, including a draft amending the State Bank, anti-money laundering and credit institutions laws to strengthen banking safeguards and legal frameworks for new financial activities. Maritime push: The government issued an action programme to develop Vietnam into a strong maritime nation by 2030, focusing on modernising the marine economy, upgrading infrastructure, and promoting green and smart industries. Business & travel: VietJet plans to launch international flights from Western Sydney International, likely starting with Ho Chi Minh City services from January. Startups & capital: Fabulate closed a funding round valuing the influencer marketing and tech platform at about $84.5m. Environment & circular economy: A Canadian municipal delegation visited Vietnam to study solid waste management and circular-economy models, recommending waste composition studies to improve diversion and monetise systems. Tourism demand: Vietnam is increasingly positioning destinations like Nha Trang for large-scale Indian weddings, reflecting growing high-spend tourism demand.