Australia News Live: NAAJA urges emergency intervention in NT justice system after two Aboriginal deaths in custody

NAAJA urges emergency intervention in NT justice system after two Aboriginal deaths in custody

Aboriginal legal service NAAJA is calling for an 'emergency intervention' to 'de-escalate' tensions in the Northern Territory's justice system, following two deaths of Aboriginal men in police custody in less than a fortnight, ABC News said in a report. The North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency's demand for urgent action highlights critical concerns, echoing the ongoing legacy of issues previously identified by the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody (a past inquiry), regarding the state of justice for Indigenous people in the region.

South Australian government details record crime and justice spending in new budget

The South Australian government has announced its latest state budget, which features a record allocation towards crime and justice, placing a significant emphasis on law enforcement and justice initiatives, according to a report in Nine News. This budget unveiling occurs in the lead-up to the state's March election.

Australian trade minister promises cheaper prices, higher wages from new US and EU trade deals

Australia's Trade Minister Don Farrell stated on June 8, 2025, that new trade agreements with the United States and Europe, if successfully negotiated by the government, are anticipated to deliver benefits such as lower prices for consumers and increased wages for workers, according to a report in Nine News. The minister's promise directly links these potential economic improvements for Australians to the successful conclusion of these international trade deals.

ACT Ombudsman finds police responses 'unnecessarily inflamed situations' in some use of force cases

An investigation conducted by ACT Ombudsman Iain Anderson has uncovered cases where the response from ACT police had "unnecessarily inflamed situations," leading to poor outcomes, ABC News said in a report. The Ombudsman stated that his investigation identified these specific instances related to police use of force in the Australian Capital Territory.

South Australian whale-watching operators concerned by proposed new vessel distance rules

Whale tourism operators in South Australia are expressing concern over a proposal that would require their vessels to maintain a greater distance from whales, particularly within newly designated nursery areas, ABC News said in a report. Rod Keogh, an operator with 17 years in the business, fears these new regulations could jeopardize his livelihood. The proposed changes are understood to be part of broader South Australian State Government initiatives to update marine park management plans and bolster wildlife protection, specifically aiming to enhance conservation outcomes for whales. This situation presents a challenge for the government in balancing environmental conservation with the economic viability of the local tourism sector.

Two Australians remain at Queen's Club women's event after Kasatkina's first-round loss

Russian tennis player Daria Kasatkina has been eliminated in the first round of the revived women's event at Queen's Club, with her loss leaving two Australian players to carry the nation's hopes, ABC News said in a report. These remaining Australians are now tasked with attempting to renew a significant finals streak for the country at the tournament, which has impressively stretched back for more than half a century.

West Australian fire volunteer Ian MacGregor honoured for decades of service

Toodyay Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service captain Ian MacGregor has been recognised for his extensive service by being awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal this week, ABC News said in a report. MacGregor has dedicated decades to responding to some of Western Australia's most traumatic fires and road incidents. The award acknowledges his significant contributions as a volunteer in emergency response.

Japan showcases warship in Darwin in bid for $10 billion Australian naval contract

Japan has brought its Mogami-class frigate to Darwin, Northern Territory, to demonstrate its capabilities as part of a bid for a $10 billion Australian defence contract aimed at acquiring a specific number of new surface combatants, ABC says in a report. This initiative aligns with Australia's 2023 Defence Strategic Review (DSR), which calls for an enhanced and more capable Royal Australian Navy surface fleet. Germany is also a competitor for this significant contract. The warship's visit is facilitated by the Australia-Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), which came into effect in 2023, enhancing defence cooperation between the two nations.

Blueberry prices in Australia approach $10 a punnet following flood damage to crops

Blueberry prices in Australia are approaching $10 a punnet and may stay elevated for an extended period this year, ABC News says in a report. This price surge is attributed to a combination of seasonal shortages and significant crop damage caused by recent torrential rainfall in the northern New South Wales region, impacting local growers who are asking for consumer patience.

Australian mushroom cook to face further questioning in murder trial

An Australian woman, who is on trial for murder after allegedly serving death cap mushroom-laced beef Wellingtons to her lunch guests on July 29, 2023, is set to face further questioning, Nine News says in a report. The defendant denies deliberately poisoning her guests.

Qantas jet diversion leaves hundreds stranded in Azerbaijan

A Qantas jet carrying hundreds of passengers was forced to divert and make an unscheduled landing in Azerbaijan following a mid-air incident, leaving travellers stranded overnight in the country, according to a report in Nine News. The diversion has impacted numerous passengers who were en route to their original destination.

Mining, government, banking, and retail jobs lead in Australian salary growth this year

Specific job roles across various Australian sectors, including mining, government, banking, and retail, have recorded the fastest salary growth in the last year, Nine News says in a report. The report identifies the top 10 positions that have benefited from these significant wage increases, highlighting areas where remuneration has risen most sharply.

Australian students describe Real Madrid training trip as 'dream come true'

High school students from Illawarra, Australia, have described their recent trip to Spain, where they trained like professional soccer players with the Real Madrid club, as a dream come true, ABC News said in a report. This opportunity provided the young Australian players an insight into a professional sports training environment.

WA Justice Department employee conflict of interest probe criticised as 'wholly inadequate' by watchdog head

An investigation is underway into a senior public servant at Western Australia's Department of Justice following allegations of hiring a family member and facilitating preferential access to government-funded housing, ABC News said in a report. The probe into this alleged conflict of interest has been sharply criticised as "wholly inadequate" by the individual responsible for overseeing WA's corruption watchdog, raising concerns about public sector integrity and the processes for accessing essential services in the state.

Below-average temperatures and possible frost forecast for much of Queensland

A deep low weather system off the coast of New South Wales is resulting in below-average temperatures and the possibility of frost across most of Queensland today, ABC News said in a report. These cooler conditions are expected to persist throughout the day in the affected regions.

Australian researchers develop new blood test for coeliac disease diagnosis

Australian researchers have reportedly developed a new blood test for coeliac disease, which they believe offers an improvement over current diagnostic methods, ABC News says in a report. The existing testing protocol often requires patients to consume gluten for several weeks prior to the test, a process that can cause illness for those affected by the condition. This new method developed in Australia aims to provide a less burdensome diagnostic option for patients.

Two teenagers die in crash in Orbost, Victoria

An 18-year-old male driver and a 15-year-old male passenger died at the scene following a crash in Orbost, Victoria's east, ABC News said in a report. Police stated that both teenagers died at the location of the incident.

NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car diagnosed with breast cancer, takes leave

New South Wales (NSW) Deputy Premier Prue Car has announced she has been diagnosed with breast cancer and is taking personal leave for "an undetermined period of time," ABC News said in a report. The article's title quotes Car stating, "I'm determined to beat this."

Travis Head says relaxed training approach helps Australian cricket team thrive ahead of WTC clash

Australian cricketer Travis Head believes a more relaxed approach to training, including 'optional' sessions, is contributing to the Australian cricket team's success, ABC News says in a report. According to Head, this strategy is helping Australia thrive on the world cricket stage as they prepare for an upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) clash with South Africa, and he has praised this less rigid training methodology.

Australian Open and Adelaide International dates confirmed for January 2025 ATP schedule

The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) tour schedule for early 2025 includes two significant events in Australia, as per a report in AP. The Adelaide International 1, a hard court (HO) tournament, is slated for January 3-11, 2025, with Felix Auger-Aliassime's name listed in the schedule entry for this event. Following this, the Australian Open, also to be played on hard courts, is scheduled from January 5-26, 2025, with Jannik Sinner noted in connection with this tournament in the provided schedule. These events are key fixtures in the Australian summer of tennis.

First fossilised gut contents from Australian sauropod 'Judy' confirm herbivorous diet

The first reported fossilised stomach contents from a sauropod dinosaur in Australia have provided direct evidence of its diet, ABC said in a report. The fossilised gut contents belonged to a Diamantinasaurus, nicknamed 'Judy', which lived approximately 95 million years ago. This significant discovery confirms the long-held scientific theory that these large, long-necked dinosaurs were herbivores.

Queensland clarifies storage rules for cosmetic injectables, clinics face challenges

Queensland has clarified its storage rules for cosmetic injectables, a move that has reportedly left some clinics facing significant operational challenges and concerns about their viability, ABC News said in a report. According to the report, the new regulations are causing difficulties for businesses to comply, leading to industry fears that increased costs could result in higher prices for consumers. The report also notes concerns that such price hikes might inadvertently drive patients towards seeking procedures in unregulated, and potentially unsafe, underground markets. This regulatory action in Queensland occurs amidst broader increased scrutiny of the cosmetic procedures industry across Australia, with state governments responsible for health service regulation.

Patients appeal to Queensland government as Toowong Private Hospital faces closure

Patients are appealing to the Queensland government to prevent the closure of Toowong Private Hospital, an embattled psychiatric health facility in the state, which is expected to cease operations on Wednesday due to financial pressures, ABC News said in a report. The impending closure of the Toowong-based hospital has prompted these calls for government intervention amid concerns for continued patient care.

Socceroos goalkeeper Mat Ryan nears 100 caps, reflects on career perseverance

Socceroos goalkeeper Mat Ryan is approaching the significant milestone of 100 caps for the Australian national team and is reportedly relishing his current role, ABC News said in a report. This comes as Ryan has also reflected on a period where he believed his career with the Socceroos might have concluded, underscoring his present appreciation for representing his country.

DP World Tour schedule includes Australian PGA Championship and Australian Open

The DP World Tour schedule features two significant golf tournaments in Australia later this year, AP says in a report. The BMW Australian PGA Championship is slated for November 21-24, with Elvis Smylie listed as the previous winner of this event. Subsequently, the ISPS Handa Australian Open will be held from November 28 to December 1; Ryggs Johnston is noted as the past champion for this tournament. These Australian events highlight the nation's participation in the international DP World Tour.

'Really disruptive event' in Perth as 'disgusting problem' spreads

Perth is currently facing a 'really disruptive event' as a 'disgusting problem' spreads, appearing as a giant mud puddle in affected areas, Nine News said in a report. This development is causing significant disruption and concern among residents.

ACCC investigates REA Group amid complaints of high home listing costs in Australia

The cost to list a property for sale online in Australia can reach thousands of dollars, and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has now intervened following years of complaints regarding REA Group's market conduct, ABC News said in a report. The competition regulator is examining concerns that REA Group, which controls a significant majority of online property listings, is using its dominant position in a manner detrimental to both home sellers and real estate agents, primarily through its fee structures.

Labor backbenchers pressure Albanese government on climate in environment laws

The Albanese government in Australia is under pressure from its own Labor backbenchers to move quickly on significant reforms to national environment laws, particularly to ensure climate change impacts are explicitly considered in project approvals, ABC News says in a report. This push from within the government's ranks has been notably triggered by the recent provisional approval granted to a contentious gas project, prompting calls for climate considerations to be written into the anticipated sweeping changes to environmental legislation, likely the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act.

Australian freight company Don Watson Transport to close, hundreds of jobs at risk

National freight company Don Watson Transport is shutting down its operations in Australia after 77 years, a development that could affect hundreds of jobs, Nine News said in a report. The closure of the long-standing transport business marks the end of its multi-decade service in the country's freight industry.

Teenager dies in Western Australia after vehicle rollover

A teenager from Eaton, Western Australia, has died after a Toyota LandCruiser rolled near a dam, Nine News said in a report. The news report mentioned the teen was described as a 'ray of sunshine' and that the five-seater vehicle was carrying six occupants at the time of the fatal crash.

Out-of-control car smashes into Sydney home, nearly kills cat

An out-of-control car was captured on video as it smashed into a family home in Sydney, causing shock to the residents and almost killing their pet cat, according to a report in Nine News.

Titleholder Australia to face South Africa in World Test Championship final

Titleholder Australia is set to compete against South Africa in the World Test Championship final at Lord's this Wednesday, according to a report in AP. South Africa enters the match aiming to break a long-standing pattern of falling short in major cricket championships, with their only global ICC title being the Champions Trophy won 27 years ago; their coach, Shukri Conrad, remains confident despite past disappointments and concerns over their batters' form.

Albanese: Australia has non-negotiable line in US tariff talks

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has declared that there is a specific, though currently unspecified, matter on which his Labor government will not yield as it endeavors to secure an Australian 'carve out' from comprehensive tariffs associated with the administration of US President Donald Trump, News.com.au says in a report. These efforts by the Australian government aim to protect national interests from the impact of the US trade measures, with Mr. Albanese signaling a firm stance on at least one critical point in negotiations.

Officials admit $1.5m spending on Australian parliamentary furnishings

Officials in Australia have admitted to a $1.5 million expenditure on parliamentary furnishings, News.com.au said in a report. This disclosure has placed government spending under the spotlight, with concerns being raised about potential waste.

Albanese: Labor to deliver on election promises, cautions against bold new agenda expectations

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is tempering expectations that his government will pursue a bold new agenda, emphasizing that the Labor party must focus on delivering what it promised in the election, Australian Financial Review says in a report. This cautionary message, highlighted by the article title 'Big majority doesn’t mean big plans, Albanese cautions,' underscores a commitment to current pledges over new, expansive initiatives.

Annie Cannon-Brookes launches independent initiatives focusing on sustainability and social impact

Annie Cannon-Brookes is launching her own distinct ventures, signaling an independent path separate from the well-known climate and renewable energy investments associated with her husband, Mike Cannon-Brookes, Australian Financial Review said in a report. Her initiatives are understood to focus on her specific areas of interest, which include sustainable agriculture, conservation, and social impact, marking a new direction for her personal and public endeavors in Australia.

Former Liberal MP Bridget Archer announces plan to return to politics

Former Liberal Member of Parliament Bridget Archer, who was defeated in the most recent federal election by a Labor newcomer, has announced her plan to re-enter politics by seeking preselection for a seat in an upcoming, yet-to-be-scheduled federal election, News.com.au said in a report. This announcement signifies her intention to contest for a parliamentary position again, weeks after losing her previous seat.

Australian state's controversial hunting plan with potential bounties gains unlikely support

An Australian state is reportedly considering a controversial plan to open up more land to hunters, a move that could also pave the way for bounty killings of feral animals, News.com.au said in a report. This proposal, aimed at addressing feral pest populations, has surprisingly garnered support from an unexpected entity. The plan exists within a broader context of ongoing debate across Australia regarding effective and politically acceptable feral animal control methods and land access policies.

Australian 2025 election: Final count shows polls understated Labor's significant win

Final counting in Australia's 2025 federal election shows Labor won the national two-party vote by a 55.3–44.7 margin, a figure over two points higher than any poll in the final week predicted, The Conversation says in a report. Primary votes were 34.6% for Labor (up 2.0% since 2022), 31.8% for the Coalition (down 3.9%), and 12.2% for the Greens. Polls generally understated Labor's primary vote, overstated the Coalition's, and had issues with preference flow assumptions. The election resulted in 94 seats for Labor, 43 for the Coalition, and 13 for Others, giving Labor a 38-seat majority. Recent developments include Teal candidate Nicolette Boele winning Bradfield by 26 votes after a recount, and Western Australian Greens Senator Dorinda Cox defecting to Labor, increasing Labor's Senate presence to 29, though still requiring crossbench support.

Albanese presents himself as democracy's defender ahead of Trump meeting

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is currently positioning himself as a defender of democracy ahead of an upcoming meeting with US President Donald Trump, The Sydney Morning Herald said in a report. As part of this current stance, Albanese is emphasizing his Labor government's focus on urgent necessities and rebuilding trust in government, themes that reportedly resonate with commitments made in his first major speech following the 2022 Australian federal election.

Albanese to argue for economic stability and free media to counter distrust in National Press Club address

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is scheduled to address the National Press Club, where he will assert that government, democratic institutions, and a 'free media' can meet the challenges of global uncertainty despite increasing global attacks, The Guardian says in a report. Following an incident where an Australian journalist was shot with a rubber bullet while covering street protests in Los Angeles a day prior, Albanese will argue that distrust can be overcome through economic stability and by the government fulfilling its election promises.

New study in Australia finds EV myths about fire risk and EMF deeply ingrained

Misinformation about electric vehicles (EVs) remains entrenched in Australia, with a new study indicating that many people, including some EV owners, subscribe to unfounded beliefs such as EVs posing a higher fire risk and emitting dangerous electromagnetic fields, ABC News said in a report. These perceptions persist despite evidence and data consistently showing that EVs are significantly less likely to catch fire than conventional vehicles and that EMF levels inside them are well within established international safety guidelines. The prevalence of such myths presents an ongoing challenge to broader EV adoption in the country.

Sussan Ley to deliver first major address as deputy opposition leader

Sussan Ley, who holds the positions of Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party and Deputy Leader of the Opposition in Australia, is preparing to make her first significant public address since assuming these roles, according to a report in News.com.au. This upcoming speech is reportedly intended by Ley to differentiate her political stance and public persona from that of Peter Dutton, who is the current Leader of the Liberal Party and Leader of the Opposition. The address is anticipated as an opportunity for Ley to articulate her vision and enhance her profile within the opposition.

Emergency services update on hikers trapped by snow at Mt Hotham

An update has been issued by emergency services in Australia concerning a group of hikers who became trapped by heavy snow on Mt Hotham, News.com.au says in a report. This situation occurred days after a separate event where dozens of travellers were also trapped in their vehicles due to significant snowfall in the alpine region. The news focuses on the latest information released by authorities regarding the stranded hikers.

Former Titans player claims he was rushed by aggressive individual before man fell

A former player for the Gold Coast Titans has claimed he "feared for safety" as he was allegedly rushed by an "angry" individual who appeared to be "looking to fight," an incident that occurred seconds before another man hit the pavement, News.com.au said in a report. The description indicates the ex-player's account of the events immediately preceding the man falling.

Victorian man explains delay in checking $2.1m Lotto ticket found six months after draw

A man from Victoria, Australia, found a Lotto ticket worth $2.1 million six months after the draw and has now provided an explanation for why he did not check it at the time, news.com.au said in a report. The report focuses on the reasons behind his delayed discovery of the multimillion-dollar win.

New Buy Now Pay Later regulations to take effect in Australia from June 10

New regulations for Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services in Australia will commence on Tuesday, June 10, impacting potentially millions of Australians, according to a report in news.com.au. These changes stem from the current Australian Labor government's financial sector reform agenda aimed at enhancing consumer protection. The new rules are expected to bring BNPL providers under a modified regulatory framework, likely aligned with the National Consumer Credit Protection Act, mandating responsible lending obligations such as affordability checks for users.

Bundaberg community holds twilight vigil to remember Pheobe Bishop

In Bundaberg, Australia, a community gathered for a twilight vigil to commemorate the life of 17-year-old Pheobe Bishop, who was allegedly murdered by her housemates three weeks prior, ABC News said in a report. The remembrance was marked by the use of bright colours and butterflies.

Alleged gunman sought after shots fired into suburban home in Australia

Authorities in Australia are searching for an alleged gunman who is on the run after shots were fired into a suburban home, news.com.au said in a report. The incident involved a residential property in a suburban area being targeted by gunfire, prompting a police manhunt for the suspect.

Polar blast brings heavy snow to NSW and Victoria, starting ski season

Heavy snow and substantial rainfall have affected New South Wales and Victoria in Australia due to a recent polar blast, effectively launching the ski season with favorable conditions, news.com.au said in a report. The weather event has brought significant accumulations of snow to ski areas in these Australian states, signaling an early and robust beginning for winter sports activities.