Tokyo Enacts Ban on Short-Term Rentals Amid Tourism Complaints > 월드뉴스

A neighborhood in Tokyo, known for its appeal to foreign tourists, will prohibit the use of thousands of short-term rental accommodations due to a significant increase in complaints about visitor behavior. Shinjuku ward, which includes the Kabukicho nightlife district and the world’s busiest railway station, will implement this ban in residential areas and locations near schools and cultural sites. This decision follows over 1,300 complaints from residents in the past year regarding noise, improper waste disposal, and other disturbances. The local ordinance could influence other regions in Japan, as Shinjuku is home to 3,775 private lodgings, the highest in the country. The ward plans to gather public feedback next month and aims to revise the ordinance by February, potentially limiting the number of days per year that these rentals can operate.

Lawyers representing the banned neo-Nazi political group, the White Australia party, are contesting the legality of anti-hate laws at the High Court of Australia. The party, previously known as the National Socialist Network, was declared an illegal hate group in May following a recommendation from the Australian Security and Intelligence Organisation. The ban criminalizes activities associated with the group, carrying a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. During the court proceedings, the lawyers argued that the law violates the implied freedom of political communication and that the power to ban political parties should not rest with a politician. They claim the law is overly broad and could be misused against any political group deemed to have engaged in hate crimes. The government is defending the law, asserting it is necessary to protect the community from harm.

A friend of broadcaster Alan Jones has testified in court regarding allegations of indecent assault against Jones, who faces 20 charges related to six men. The witness, who claims to have a strong friendship with Jones, stated he has never seen him behave inappropriately. During cross-examination, he acknowledged sending Jones a supportive text message after allegations were published in the media. The witness described the allegations as a "bullshit witch hunt" and expressed loyalty to Jones, suggesting that his focus on friendship influenced his responses in court. The trial continues as the prosecution presents evidence from other witnesses who allege inappropriate behavior by Jones during a 2008 luncheon.

An Australian citizen who was uncontactable in Nepal has been confirmed safe and does not require consular assistance. Meanwhile, 35 Australians remain unaccounted for in the region following recent floods. In unrelated news, the Alliance for Journalists’ Freedom criticized One Nation’s Victorian leader for excluding reporters from a press conference, calling it a form of censorship. In labor news, workers at the Arts Centre Melbourne plan to strike for 24 hours, disrupting performances by Macy Gray and an international dance act. The strike, organized by multiple unions, stems from ongoing negotiations over a new enterprise agreement, with pay being a significant point of contention.