PRE-MARKET AUSTRALIAN STOCKS NEWS: Lynas Rare Earths (LYC AT) produced first samarium oxide at its Malaysia plant ahead of schedule

Austal (ASB AT) - Co. suitor Arlington Capital Partners acquires Eptec’s defence unit. (AFR)

Lynas Rare Earths (LYC AT) - Co. produced first samarium oxide at its Malaysia plant ahead of schedule, adding to its separated heavy rare earth products including dysprosium and terbium, and will continue to progressively add other products as planned. (Dow Jones Newsplus)

Qantas Airways (QAN AT) - Co. has stripped lounge access from elite frequent flyers on certain Jetstar flights and banned the sharing of complimentary lounge passes with family and friends. (The Australian)