A round-up of public finance news stories from Asia Pacific that you might have missed this week (August 12-16).

Australian government foreshadows difficult landing for economy

The Australian government’s Pre-Election Economic and Fiscal Outlook 2013 is preparing the electorate for a difficult economic landing, warning about a budget deficit and rising debt. (FutureGov Asia)

Key Chinese cities and provinces set to receive stimulus on the quiet

The mainland government is quietly offering financial stimulus to key cities and provinces to help them maintain local economic growth. (South China Morning Post)

Chinese economy could be stabilising according to latest economic figures

China's economy could be stabilising, the latest set of economic figures from the country has suggested. (Merco Press)

Government staff in India's Seemandhra state begin indefinite strike

Normal life has come to a grinding halt in coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema regions in India, known as Seemandhra, after 400,000 government employees in 13 districts launched an indefinite strike on Monday in protest against plans to split the state in two. (Khaleej Times)

Macau Foundation gives fewer subsidies, reinforces inspections

The Macau Foundation, the tax-funded cultural body on the territory, approved a total of 776 applications for subsidies in 2012, 152 fewer than in 2011, its annual report has revealed. The federation said it ‘has been reinforcing the inspection of granted subsidies’ after an Audit Commission slammed its lack of inspections. (Macau Daily Times)