Australia News Live: Keating claims Coalition superannuation delays cost retirees up to $300,000

Australian business leaders are urging Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to protect the nation's vital iron ore exports during his upcoming visit to China later this month, according to a report in the Australian Financial Review. The call comes amid expectations that Beijing will use the visit to pressure the Prime Minister over Australia's tightened restrictions on foreign investment. The business community's primary concern is ensuring the stability of iron ore sales, a key component of the Australian economy, as high-level diplomatic talks proceed.

Former Prime Minister Paul Keating has claimed that delays by past Coalition governments in increasing Australia's superannuation guarantee have potentially cost some retirees as much as $300,000, according to a report in Australian Financial Review. Keating, who was the architect of the nation's compulsory superannuation system, made the comments as the guarantee rate officially reached the 12% milestone on July 1, 2025. He described the achievement as being "25 years late but worth the wait," criticizing the historical postponements while acknowledging the importance of the current rate for workers' retirement savings.

A significant traffic disruption occurred in western Sydney after a truck caught on fire, leading to the closure of a major motorway, according to a report in Nine News. Visuals from the location showed the truck completely ablaze, prompting the shutdown to allow emergency services to manage the scene. The incident caused major delays for commuters in the area.

A home in the residential Sydney suburb of Concord has been targeted in a shooting, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The incident occurred in the city's inner west.

Australian tennis player Jordan Thompson has postponed a planned indefinite break from the sport after securing another five-set victory at Wimbledon, The Age says in a report. Thompson, who has been managing a persistent back injury that requires him to wear a brace, survived a lengthy match, extending his season. The win means his intended hiatus to focus on healing will have to wait.

Australian tennis player Aleksander Vukic is set to compete against world No.1 Jannik Sinner in the second round of the Wimbledon 2025 tournament, The Sydney Morning Herald says in a report. The article notes that the Australian athlete is prepared for the significant match-up.

The City of Sydney has approved plans for a 70-storey skyscraper in the city's central business district, a building that falls into the 'supertall' category for structures over 300 metres, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The approval was granted as plans are also underway for an even taller building on an adjacent site.

Australian tennis player Jordan Thompson has advanced at Wimbledon after winning another five-set match, delaying a planned break to recover from a persistent back injury, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. Thompson, who has been wearing a back brace due to the ailment that has troubled his season, secured the victory in a lengthy match. The win means his plans for an indefinite hiatus to focus on healing will be put on hold as he continues in the tournament.

A Melbourne-based family, including Sophia Lee, is at risk of being deported to South Korea due to what has been described as a misunderstanding regarding their visa requirements, Nine News says in a report. The family is currently in an uncertain situation while their case is being handled.

Australia's superannuation regulator, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), has written to superannuation funds expressing concern that some spending on items like sponsorships, travel, and conferences may not be in the best financial interests of members, as per a report in The Conversation. The regulator highlighted a "lack of robust governance and oversight of fund expenditure," with scrutiny intensifying following a past incident where the CBUS fund spent A$387,000 on a party. Since July 1, 2021, funds have been legally required to act in their members' best financial interests, and APRA has now put trustees on notice that they bear the legal burden of proving their spending is justified. The regulator has powers to seek court-enforceable undertakings to address any breaches.

Experts are investigating the source of a mysterious loud sound that shook homes and startled residents across north-west Victoria, according to a report in ABC News. Authorities and specialists have so far been unable to determine the cause of the short, loud blast. The origin of the sound remains unknown, with potential explanations including a seismic event or a sonic boom currently being considered.

A ute driver has died and another person has been critically injured following a three-vehicle crash in the Wheatbelt region of Western Australia, according to a report in 7NEWS. The collision prompted a major emergency response, and the injured driver was airlifted to a hospital for treatment.

Nineteen children in Australia have been presented with awards for their exceptional courage and maturity while calling the Triple Zero emergency number, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The young recipients were honoured for their calm and clear communication with emergency operators during various critical incidents, which was vital in securing timely assistance.

Australians with serious mental illness face significantly poorer oral health outcomes, with research showing they are four times more likely to have gum disease and nearly three times more likely to have lost all their teeth, as per a report in The Conversation. The connection is driven by shared risk factors like social isolation and unemployment, medication side effects such as dry mouth, and symptoms of mental illness like low motivation that hinder self-care. This leads to reduced self-esteem, social withdrawal, and preventable hospital admissions, with dental issues being the third most common cause for such admissions in this group. Researchers advocate for a holistic approach, calling for better integration of oral and mental health services, improved training for practitioners, and increased government funding to address the gap in Australia's public dental care system.

A doctor from Melbourne has begun a solo flight with the goal of raising over $4 million for children with rare diseases, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The fundraising initiative aims to provide financial support for young patients affected by uncommon medical conditions.

A bus transporting eight children between the ages of eight and 12 has crashed into bushes in Western Sydney after being involved in a collision, 7NEWS said in a report. Emergency services attended the scene of the accident.

Top renewables investors have strongly criticized Victoria’s plan for transitioning its electricity grid, stating it puts the state's energy security at risk, according to a report in Australian Financial Review. The criticism from key industry players highlights significant concerns about the readiness and stability of the grid as Victoria pursues ambitious targets, including generating 95% of its energy from renewables and phasing out coal by 2035. These warnings suggest that without changes, the current plan could deter the necessary private investment required to build the new generation and storage facilities needed for a stable transition.

Metals processor Nyrstar has stated there is an "urgent, serious" risk of closure for its plants in South Australia and Tasmania, the Australian Financial Review says in a report. The company claims it is just weeks away from shutting down the facilities if it does not secure financial support from both federal and state governments.

Singapore-based Furama Hotels has acquired the Skye Suites Sydney Hotel and the adjoining Our Skittle Place Retail precinct from Australian property developer Crown Group for $68 million, according to a report in the Australian Financial Review. The sale involves the property located in Sydney's central business district and represents an expansion by the Singaporean hotelier into the Australian market.

Australian lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) provider Helia has initiated a comprehensive business review after its stock value declined significantly, according to a report in the Australian Financial Review. The move was prompted by the loss of a major contract with the bank ING, which has chosen to enter negotiations with a competing LMI provider.

Former jockey Peta Tait has died following what was described as a "freak accident" at the Cranbourne Training Centre in Victoria, according to a report in 7NEWS. Paramedics were called to the scene but were unable to save her. Tributes are reportedly flowing for the former jockey following the incident.

Apartment approvals in New South Wales are experiencing a significant upturn, driven by a combination of state government policy reforms and lower borrowing costs, according to a report in the Australian Financial Review. The increase in development approvals is seen as an early outcome of recent policy shifts aimed at boosting housing supply. These factors are contributing to a more favorable environment for developers, leading to a rise in planned residential construction projects across the state.

The first group of Australian citizens has been successfully evacuated by plane from Iran following threats of further missile strikes in the region, SBS said in a report. The evacuation was organized as tensions between Iran and Israel escalated, making the area highly volatile. Despite this initial success, thousands more Australians, including many dual nationals, remain in Iran and are awaiting assistance from the government to leave the country.

Victoria's Yoorrook Justice Commission, recognized as Australia's first formal Indigenous truth-telling commission, has concluded its inquiry by tabling its final reports in the state parliament, SBS News says in a report. The comprehensive reports outline more than 100 recommendations for the Victorian government. These recommendations are centered on providing redress for the damages and losses experienced by First Peoples due to the historical colonial invasion and occupation of their lands.

New road rules and heavier fines for motorists have taken effect across Australia from July 1 in response to a rising road toll, according to a report in 7NEWS. The changes, which coincide with the start of the new financial year, were implemented by various state and territory governments to address increasing road fatalities. While the specific rules and penalties vary by jurisdiction, the measures represent a nationwide effort to improve road safety.

Richmond veteran Tom Lynch has been suspended for five matches by the Australian Football League (AFL) tribunal, 7NEWS says in a report. The ban was issued after Lynch struck Adelaide Crows player Jordon Butts during a recent game. The incident and subsequent suspension have drawn attention to the player's on-field conduct.

A major $1.8 billion residential and retail precinct in the inner-west Sydney suburb of Five Dock has received final approval, as per a report in the Australian Financial Review. The development, which will create 1200 new homes, was given the green light through a state-level 'fast track' process that overrode previous objections from local councils. This approval pathway designates the project as a State Significant Development, allowing the NSW Department of Planning and Environment to make the final decision in a move aligned with the state government's strategy to increase housing supply.

Chinese automaker JAC is offering nationwide drive-away deals in Australia for its T9 dual-cab ute, with prices starting from $39,990, according to a report in 7NEWS. The promotional pricing applies to model year 2024 examples of the dual-cab vehicle.

A drug for breast cancer is now significantly cheaper for patients in Australia following its inclusion on the government's Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), according to a report in 7NEWS. The listing means the cost of the medication will be heavily subsidized by the government, reducing the out-of-pocket expense for patients from potentially tens of thousands of dollars to a standard co-payment. This move is part of the PBS system, which assesses drugs for clinical and cost-effectiveness before making them accessible to the public at an affordable price.

Concerns over fairness are growing in Australia's education system as the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is reportedly linked to an increase in students receiving special assistance for exams, the Australian Financial Review says in a report. A quarter of all Australian students now receive some form of disability support. However, data indicates that non-government schools have a higher rate of students accessing this exam help, prompting a debate about equity and the use of NDIS resources within the school system.

A review of the University of Sydney's investment policies has recommended the institution divest from the defence and security sectors, the Australian Financial Review said in a report. The review was initiated as a direct response to pro-Palestinian encampments that took place on campus last year. The recommendations, which are not yet a binding decision, will be considered by the university's governing body for potential changes to its investment strategy.

Foreign investors are increasingly channelling capital into Australian commercial real estate, which is being viewed as a safe haven amid global economic uncertainty stemming from US tariffs, according to a report in the Australian Financial Review. This trend, coupled with falling domestic interest rates, has led to a 13 percent increase in deal volumes within the sector as investors seek stable assets.

Former Australian Health Minister Greg Hunt has proposed that state governments should fund the use of private hospital beds for public patients to alleviate pressure on the public system and reduce long waiting lists, according to a report in Australian Financial Review. Hunt, who now serves as a senior adviser at the consulting firm Alvarez & Marsal, argues that this public funding would also provide a vital revenue stream for the financially struggling private hospital sector while increasing the nation's overall healthcare capacity.

The Australian Treasury is considering granting the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) new powers to punish major accounting and consulting firms for misconduct, according to a report in the Australian Financial Review. This potential regulatory expansion follows several parliamentary inquiries and heightened public scrutiny after the 2023 PwC tax leak scandal exposed governance failures in the sector. The proposed changes would give ASIC the ability to directly regulate and penalise large firms, particularly unlisted partnerships, for a wider range of ethical and governance breaches, marking a significant shift from the current framework.

Queensland is bracing for wild weather from a 'bomb cyclone' as the system moves across the border from New South Wales, as per a report in Nine News. While conditions are now easing on the NSW east coast, the state previously endured cyclonic winds, heavy rainfall, and significant coastal erosion from the same weather system.

Falling inflation and rising household incomes are providing signs that cost-of-living pressures in Australia are easing, according to a report in the Australian Financial Review. Analysts observe that consumers are becoming "increasingly positive" as their financial situations improve. This shift in sentiment is expected to benefit the country's struggling retail sector, which has been impacted by reduced consumer spending.

Norwegian state-owned energy company Equinor has withdrawn from what was Tasmania's only proposed offshore wind development, marking its third project abandonment in Australia, according to a report in the Australian Financial Review. The decision casts significant doubt on the viability of Australia's burgeoning offshore wind industry and poses a challenge to the federal government's goal of achieving 82% renewable energy by 2030. This withdrawal by a major global player highlights concerns within the industry regarding regulatory hurdles, development costs, and the overall investment attractiveness of large-scale renewable projects in the country.

The Richmond Football Club and its former player Ty Zantuck have reached a legal settlement, concluding Zantuck's claims that his injury treatment at the club was handled inadequately, 7NEWS says in a report. The resolution brings an end to legal proceedings that centered on the club's duty of care and the long-term health consequences for the player. The case has drawn attention to the broader issues of player welfare and occupational health standards within professional Australian sports.

Domino's Pizza chairman Jack Cowin has taken control of the company following the sudden exit of its CEO, which caused shares to fall by nearly 20 per cent on Wednesday, according to a report in the Australian Financial Review. The departure of CEO Mark van Dyck was described as a shock and comes after he had implemented sweeping changes within the business. The market reacted sharply to the news of the leadership change, resulting in the significant drop in the company's stock value.

Design software company Figma, a key competitor to Australia's Canva, is set to launch a major Initial Public Offering (IPO) on US public markets, the Australian Financial Review said in a report. The Sequoia-backed company is expected to raise up to $US1.5 billion in what is anticipated to be one of the largest software listings of the year.

A new 'Confirmation of Payee' security feature has been rolled out in Australia to provide an additional layer of protection for online banking transactions, as per a report in 7NEWS. The industry-led initiative is designed to combat scams by verifying that a recipient's account name matches the details entered by the sender before a payment is processed. This check applies to online transfers such as those made via the New Payments Platform (NPP) and BPAY. The rollout is being implemented by major financial institutions, though full adoption across all banks may be phased in over time.

The North Melbourne Football Club's 100th anniversary celebrations have been met with significant challenges, as per a report in 7NEWS. Several of the club's star players have been ruled out of the upcoming Australian Football League (AFL) match against the Western Bulldogs due to injury. In addition to the on-field issues, the club is also dealing with a reported boycott from some of its legends, further impacting the commemorative events.

Tesla recorded its best sales month in Australia over the past 12 months in June, delivering more vehicles than in any other month this year, according to a report in 7NEWS. Despite the strong overall performance, the company's results were impacted by sagging sales for its Model 3 sedan.

The son of Brendan Abbott, one of Australia's most notorious criminals known as the 'Postcard Bandit' for his history of bank robberies and prison escapes, has made a public plea for his father to be set free, Nine News says in a report. This call for early release brings renewed attention to the case of the long-term inmate.

A $1 million reward is now on offer for information regarding the death of a young mother whose body was discovered in Adelaide mangroves 25 years ago, according to a report in 7NEWS. The case also involves the woman's 15-year-old daughter, who authorities believe was also murdered. The daughter's body has never been located, and the substantial reward aims to generate new leads in the long-unsolved case.

Rugby league player Josh Papalii is making a return to the State of Origin team, with new details about his call-up being revealed, according to a report in 7NEWS. Papalii was reportedly in the hospital when he received the call from coach Billy Slater. Additionally, a message was spotted on his suitcase as he prepared to join the squad.

A third of Tuvalu's population has applied for visas to live, work, and study in Australia under the Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union treaty, 7NEWS says in a report. The applications are a result of the landmark 2023 agreement designed to provide a pathway for Tuvaluans facing displacement due to climate change. Despite the significant number of applications, a politician has commented on the situation, suggesting that a mass exodus from the Pacific island nation is not anticipated.

Midwives and supporters rallied outside Sydney's Royal Prince Alfred hospital on Tuesday, protesting what they describe as staffing cuts in the birth and delivery unit, according to a report in The Guardian. The NSW Nurses and Midwives' Association (NSWNMA) claims the changes will prevent one-to-one midwife-to-patient care and result in the closure of nine maternity ward beds. O'Bray Smith, the association's president, warned that women would be discharged from the hospital sooner. In response, NSW Health Minister Ryan Park stated that no one is losing their job and that midwives are being redeployed to other maternity services due to a slight decrease in birth rates at the hospital. Park added that staffing levels are determined by the 'Birthrate Plus' model, a system he said has been endorsed by the NSWNMA.

Internal documents have revealed the New South Wales Department of Education received warnings about a wide range of issues with its selective school testing system a full year before the chaotic administration of the 2023 exam, according to a report in The Age. The documents indicate that a practice run of the test had highlighted numerous potential problems. These revelations place scrutiny on the department's handling of the warnings, which were received under the previous state government before the widespread test failures occurred.

Nurses in Queensland will escalate their industrial action from next week after failing to secure a wage agreement with the state government, according to a report in The Age. The decision by union members follows 36 unsuccessful negotiation meetings with the Queensland Labor government this year. The union rejected the latest pay offer, which Queensland's Liberal National Party Opposition Leader, David Crisafulli, had publicly described as a 'nation leading' proposal.

Despite significant global investment in agricultural AI and digital technology, many Australian farmers remain wary of its practical application, according to a report in The Conversation. Based on over 35 interviews with livestock producers, researchers found a prevailing sentiment summarized as "shit in, shit out," highlighting concerns about the reliability and transparency of data used in AI systems. Instead of feature-heavy applications, farmers expressed a desire for tools with "more automation, less features," prioritizing simple, reliable, and labor-saving technologies. The report draws a parallel to the past success of the Suzuki Sierra Stockman, a no-frills vehicle that farmers adapted for their own needs, suggesting that for AI to become an iconic farm tool, it must be similarly simple, adaptable, and dependable.

Australia's corporate regulator, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), has issued a significant public alert over what it terms "industrial-scale misconduct" in superannuation-switching schemes, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The warning follows concerns that more than $1 billion has been lost by Australians to these rogue operations, which persuade individuals to switch their super funds, often resulting in substantial losses through fraudulent fees or diverted funds. ASIC's unusual step of issuing a broad warning aims to protect consumers' retirement savings from these predatory practices.

The Australian city of Shepparton is planning to build the world's biggest pear, a three-storey fibreglass structure estimated to cost over $1.3 million for the fruit alone, according to a report in The Guardian. The proposal for the Goulburn Valley city follows its previous construction of the world's largest Murray cod. A historian noted the project could position the regional city as the 'capital of big things in Australia'.

Australia’s major banks have not implemented several key recommendations designed to help customers qualify for bonus interest rates on savings products, more than 18 months after the advice was issued by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), according to a report in The Guardian. A new analysis found that none of the big four banks—NAB, Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, and ANZ—have fully adopted the ACCC's recommendations. This follows a late 2023 ACCC inquiry which found that two-thirds of customers with bonus savings accounts miss out on the higher rate and receive a much lower base rate. While the banks have not adopted the recommendations in full, they state they offer other forms of assistance, such as in-app alerts.

Perth Airport will undergo a $5 billion refurbishment funded primarily by its private operator, Perth Airport Pty Ltd, The Sydney Morning Herald says in a report. The major infrastructure project includes the construction of a new terminal and hotel, as well as an additional runway to increase the airport's capacity and modernize its facilities.

Internal documents have revealed the New South Wales Department of Education was aware of numerous potential problems with its selective school entrance exam a year before the test experienced widespread technical and administrative failures, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The warnings reportedly followed a practice run of the test, highlighting risks that later materialized during the actual examination which caused significant disruption for students and families. The revelation focuses on internal departmental knowledge of potential failures prior to the event.

Nurses in Queensland will begin stronger industrial action next week after rejecting a wage offer from the state government, The Sydney Morning Herald said in a report. Union members confirmed the escalation following 36 unsuccessful negotiation meetings with the government this year. The nurses' union also dismissed a claim by Queensland's Opposition Leader, David Crisafulli, that the government's proposed wage deal was 'nation leading'.

The British and Irish Lions secured a decisive 52-12 victory over the Queensland Reds as part of their ongoing rugby tour of Australia, according to a report in ABC News. The win continues a strong start for the touring side in a match described as physical. However, the victory was tempered by a significant injury to Lions player Elliot Daly, creating a potential setback for the team.

A coroner in Western Australia has determined that the fatal police shooting of an Indigenous woman in Geraldton was preventable, ABC News says in a report. The inquiry found that the police officer involved acted "too hastily" before discharging their weapon. As a result of the inquest, the coroner has issued nine recommendations intended to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future, placing pressure on the state's police force and government to review use-of-force protocols and training.

A former Australian spy chief has publicly questioned the speed of the country's defence spending, highlighting what he believes is the 'real issue' with the nation's security strategy, according to a report in News.com.au. The concern focuses on whether Australia is acquiring new defence capabilities quickly enough to meet strategic challenges, particularly in the context of implementing the Defence Strategic Review and the AUKUS security pact.

South Australian company Golden North Ice Cream is relocating its operations from the town of Laura, its base for over 100 years, to the regional centre of Murray Bridge, according to a report in ABC News. The decision for the move was made so the company can be closer to its milk suppliers.

New laws in Australia now require large domestic and foreign companies to publicly release previously confidential country-by-country tax reports, according to a report in The Conversation. The measure, which takes effect from the new financial year, applies to multinationals with an annual global income over A$1 billion and at least A$10 million in Australian-sourced turnover. The policy aims to increase tax transparency by revealing a company's operations, employees, revenue, and taxes paid in each jurisdiction, making it easier to identify potential profit shifting to low-tax countries. While firms have provided these reports confidentially to the Australian Tax Office since 2016, the new public disclosure law aligns Australia with similar regulations in the European Union.

Two recent polls ahead of Tasmania's July 19 snap state election indicate a hung parliament is the most probable outcome, but they offer conflicting results on which major party is ahead, according to a report in The Conversation. A YouGov poll places Labor in the lead with 34% of the vote to the Liberals' 31%, while a DemosAU poll shows the Liberals ahead with 34% to Labor's 27.3%. The election was triggered by a no-confidence vote against Liberal Premier Jeremy Rockliff. Despite his party trailing in one poll, Rockliff leads Labor's Dean Winter as preferred premier. Both polls show a high level of support for independents (18-19.3%), though an analyst suggests this may be overstated as the polls were conducted before candidate nominations were finalized. Regardless of the outcome, neither major party is projected to win the 18 seats required for a majority.

Australian supermarket chain Coles is recalling its 1kg Smooth and Crunchy homebrand peanut butter products due to concerns of contamination with aflatoxin, a toxic chemical linked to liver cancer, The Conversation says in a report. The recall applies to products with a best before date of February 5, 2027, sold nationally between May 1 and June 30. Aflatoxins are produced by fungi that thrive in warm, humid conditions and can contaminate crops like peanuts. According to Australia’s food safety authority, ingesting the toxin can cause illness, with high exposure leading to acute liver damage and long-term consumption increasing the risk of liver cancer. Coles has advised customers to return the affected products to stores for a full refund.

A new online safety code announced by Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, will require search engine providers to implement age assurance measures for account holders within six months, as per a report in The Conversation. The code aims to mitigate the risk of children being exposed to online pornography, high-impact violence, and self-harm material by requiring providers to filter such content, prevent explicit autocomplete predictions, blur certain images by default, and offer parental controls. The rules, co-drafted with an industry group, apply to integrated AI search features and carry potential fines of up to A$49.5 million for a single breach.

The northern Tasmanian city of Launceston has been selected as the site for one of the first artificial intelligence factories in Australia, ABC News said in a report.

South Australia's state-owned utility, SA Water, is facing a criminal penalty for causing "serious environmental harm" in the Barossa Valley, a court has heard, according to a report in ABC News. The charge stems from an incident where an engineer allegedly ignored a water quality test result while draining a reservoir as part of maintenance work. The legal action holds the corporation itself accountable for the significant environmental breach.

A coronial inquest in Western Australia has concluded it is unable to determine what happened to Lisa Govan, who disappeared in 1999, as per a report in ABC News. WA Coroner Michael Jenkin stated that an 'information vacuum' surrounding her final movements, which were traced to a bikie clubhouse, has prevented any definitive findings. The coroner attributed the lack of evidence to a 'code of silence' among those associated with the group, hindering the investigation and leaving the decades-old case unresolved.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has accused the owner of popular sunscreen brands Hawaiian Tropic and Banana Boat of misleading consumers with 'reef friendly' marketing claims, ABC News said in a report. The commission alleges the products contain ingredients that are known to either cause or risk causing harm to coral reefs. This action is part of a wider regulatory crackdown by the ACCC on 'greenwashing,' where companies make unsubstantiated environmental claims to attract customers, particularly as there is no legally defined standard for what constitutes a 'reef friendly' product in Australia.

An inquiry into strata management in Canberra has heard testimony that some unit owners are facing bankruptcy due to difficulties paying strata levies, according to a report in ABC News. The proceedings revealed that these owners are struggling with the payments and, in some cases, ending up bankrupt without what are described as adequate legal protections. The inquiry is examining the financial pressures and legal vulnerabilities experienced by apartment owners within the Australian Capital Territory's strata system.

An inquest has heard that Raymond Wheatley, a man under public guardianship in New South Wales, was 'overlooked' and may have 'slipped through the cracks' before his death in 2021, according to a report in ABC News. Wheatley died from internal bleeding just a week after he was discharged from Wagga Wagga Base Hospital. The coronial inquiry is currently examining the circumstances surrounding his care and subsequent death.

An Australian man is set to face serious drug trafficking charges after police in Papua New Guinea allegedly discovered 60 kilograms of cocaine in his possession at a hotel in Port Moresby, ABC News says in a report. According to PNG police, the seizure is valued at millions of dollars, and they will proceed with charging the man for the alleged offence.

Canberra man Brandon D'Alessandro has been sentenced to jail after he pleaded guilty to more than 40 separate charges, ABC News says in a report. The extensive list of offenses includes aggravated burglary, theft, and driving a stolen vehicle. One of the incidents noted was his role as a getaway driver for a group that stole cookies valued at $200 from a Subway outlet, which was one of many crimes that led to the conviction.

A Perth mother has been found guilty of the prolonged sexual abuse of her daughter in a case that also involved the child's stepfather, according to a report in ABC News. The presiding judge in the case stated the crime "defies any humanity."

A man in New South Wales is in critical condition after contracting the state's first confirmed case of the rare, rabies-like Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV), ABC News says in a report. According to NSW Health, the man was bitten by a bat several months ago and had received treatment following the incident. Despite the initial medical care, he has now been hospitalized in a critical state. This is the fourth confirmed human case of ABLV in Australia since the virus was identified in 1996.

All work has been suspended at the Clarke Creek Wind Farm in central Queensland following a fatal incident involving a worker at the site, as per a report in ABC News. The suspension of operations was confirmed after the worker's death at the project location.

The mother of Elisabeth Membrey, a woman who disappeared in a suspected murder cold case, made a public plea for answers on Wednesday, Nine News said in a report. Joy Membrey directly addressed Victoria's State Coroner John Cain, questioning how she was meant to live without knowing what happened to her daughter. The plea underscores the ongoing pain for the family and the lack of resolution in the long-standing case.

The Australian federal government has cancelled the visa of rapper Kanye West, according to a report in Nine News. The official decision to strip West of his visa was made in response to his promotion of Nazism in a recent single. This action follows a broader pattern of antisemitic and pro-Nazi statements from the artist, with the government reportedly exercising its powers under Australia's Migration Act, which allows for visa cancellation on character grounds.

A person riding a mobility scooter has been killed following a collision with a truck in Melbourne's inner-west, Nine News said in a report. Police stated the fatal incident occurred near the intersection of Francis and Ballarat Streets in Yarraville shortly after 11:30 am.

Creative Australia has reinstated artist Khaled Sabsabi and curator Michael Dagostino as the nation's artistic team for the 2026 Venice Biennale, according to a report in The Guardian. The decision follows an independent external review that was commissioned after the pair's appointment was revoked by the Creative Australia board earlier this year. That initial, unprecedented decision to remove them from the prestigious art exhibition had prompted calls for a review from the arts community.

Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has declared that a Chinese military base is not welcome in the Pacific, pledging to resist any efforts by Beijing to secure a military foothold in the region, Australian Financial Review said in a report. In a significant statement on regional security, Rabuka also advocated for strengthening diplomatic and security ties with Australia. His position marks a clear stance amid growing strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific and is seen as a boost to Australian and Western efforts to counter China's increasing influence among Pacific Island nations.

Negotiations over a proposal to establish a new National Rugby League (NRL) team in Perth, referred to as the 'Bears deal', have stalled due to a slow and cautious approach from the Western Australian state government, The Age said in a report. The push for the team by Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas is reportedly being frustrated by the protracted pace set by state ministers Rita Saffioti and John Whitby. The negotiations, which involve significant public funding for stadium infrastructure, have been likened to 'watching a test match', highlighting a standoff between the city's sporting ambitions and the state's fiscal and planning priorities.

New South Wales Treasurer Daniel Mookhey has announced a decision involving $122 million as part of the state government's efforts to resolve ongoing public sector pay disputes, The Sydney Morning Herald said in a report. This development comes after prolonged industrial action from public sector unions against a 2.5% wage cap that was in place under the previous Liberal-National government. The current Labor government, led by Premier Chris Minns, was elected on a platform that included abolishing the wage cap and engaging in new negotiations with unions.

A new analysis suggests Australia has the potential to boost its economy by $115 billion annually through decisive productivity-enhancing reforms, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The projected gain is linked to strategic policy actions and accelerated adoption of technology, such as AI and broader digital transformation. This potential economic uplift is framed in the context of addressing long-term challenges, including the slowing productivity growth highlighted in government reports. The figure represents a potential outcome based on economic modeling if specific conditions and reforms are implemented, rather than a guaranteed sum.

Latitude 66 has sold its 17.5% stake in the Queensland Greater Duchess copper-gold joint venture for an upfront payment of $2 million, as per a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The agreement includes a potential additional $4 million bonus payment if the entire project is sold within a 90-day period.

Veteran Australian horse trainer Clarry Conners is preparing the two-year-old filly Kiss Goodnight for her debut race at Hawkesbury on Thursday, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The horse is owned by prominent Australian businessman John Singleton.

The Western Australian government will introduce new laws to strengthen the powers of its building industry regulator, The Sydney Morning Herald says in a report. The announcement was made by WA Commerce Minister Tony Buti during a budget estimates hearing on Wednesday. The move comes in response to significant problems within the state's construction sector in recent years, including the high-profile collapse of developer Nicheliving, which left many homeowners with unfinished or defective properties.

The Western Australian government will introduce new laws to increase the powers of its building industry watchdog. The announcement was made by Commerce Minister Tony Buti during a budget estimates hearing on Wednesday. This action is a direct response to significant problems within the construction sector, including the past collapse of developer Nicheliving, which left numerous homeowners with unfinished or defective properties.

Latitude 66 has sold its 17.5% stake in the Greater Duchess copper-gold joint venture located in Queensland for an upfront payment of $2 million, as per a report in The Age. The agreement includes a provision for a potential additional $4 million bonus payment if the entire project is sold within a 90-day period.

Residents of a small Queensland community affected by severe flooding have been told it could take years to repair a vital road connection, according to a report in ABC News. The community, which endured extreme flooding, is reportedly at a "breaking point" following the announcement about the extended timeline for fixing the crucial transport link.

Three-quarters of regional public art galleries in New South Wales will lose their financial support from the state government as part of a major restructure of its cultural funding arm, Create NSW, The Guardian says in a report. A total of 18 regional centres, including Wagga Wagga, Orange, Armidale, Broken Hill, and Tamworth, will no longer receive four-year state government funding. The withdrawn financial support was previously worth between approximately $70,000 and $200,000 per year for each gallery.

Questions are being raised about whether Western Australia has abandoned its "one in every nine" public housing policy, which was designed to integrate social housing into the wider community, according to a report in The Age. The policy aimed to evenly disperse public housing to avoid the mistakes of previous governments that created socio-economically segregated areas by building large, "one-class" apartment complexes. The strategy's goal was to foster social mix and prevent concentrated disadvantage, and its current status is now under scrutiny.

A significant development has emerged in the legal case against the son of a court sheriff accused of killing two children through dangerous driving in Australia, news.com.au says in a report. The case, which has drawn public attention, concerns a double fatal crash allegedly caused by the accused. Proceedings are ongoing within the Australian justice system.

Three environmental activists have avoided jail time after releasing stench gas at the Woodside Energy building in Perth, which prompted a full evacuation, according to a report in ABC News. While the protesters were spared a prison sentence, they were criticized by the court for their 'forthright defiance of the law' in relation to the incident at the energy company's headquarters.

Australia's Minister for Foreign Affairs has delivered a blunt assessment of China's behaviour and the methods it is using to assert its influence as a 'great power' in the region, according to a report in news.com.au. The statement from the nation's chief diplomat directly addresses China's actions to expand its presence and impact on regional dynamics.

A senior police officer in an Australian state has publicly revealed on radio that he is the subject of an internal investigation, according to a report in news.com.au. The investigation reportedly concerns an incident that occurred at a drug dealer's residence during the 1990s. The officer, described as the state's 'top cop', disclosed the investigation himself.

The owner of what is described as Australia’s last remaining paper mill has issued a warning that 340 jobs could be lost because of significant power shortages, news.com.au says in a report. The potential job losses highlight the operational challenges faced by the energy-intensive manufacturing sector amid issues with the nation's electricity supply.

Questions have been raised about whether the Western Australian government has abandoned its "one in every nine" public housing policy, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The policy was established to ensure new developments included a proportion of public housing, aiming to evenly disperse it across communities. This approach was intended to avoid the social issues associated with creating concentrated "one-class" public housing estates, a problem seen in past government initiatives. The potential abandonment of this policy comes amid a national housing affordability crisis and raises concerns about the state's commitment to equitable housing.

Senator Bridget McKenzie is calling for the federal government to intervene after regional broadcaster WIN switched off the free-to-air transmission of the Seven network in parts of Australia, 7NEWS says in a report. The move, understood to be the result of a commercial dispute, has left viewers in affected areas without access to Seven's content, including local news and popular free-to-air sports. Senator McKenzie has urged the government to take action to resolve the situation and restore the service for regional communities.

A court has rejected a legal challenge by former ACT Director of Public Prosecutions Shane Drumgold aimed at overturning adverse findings from the inquiry into the Bruce Lehrmann prosecution, according to a report in news.com.au. The ruling is a significant setback for Drumgold, whose legal action targeted the conclusions of the inquiry chaired by Walter Sofronoff KC. The inquiry, which investigated the conduct of prosecutors and police in the Lehrmann case, made adverse findings against Drumgold, which he sought to have overturned. This court decision effectively upholds the inquiry's conclusions.