Australia News Highlights, 28 July 2025: AI models struggle to detect sarcasm in Australian English, new research finds

New research reveals that large language models (LLMs) perform poorly when analyzing non-American English, particularly in detecting sarcasm in Australian English with only 62% accuracy, according to a report in The Conversation. Researchers developed a new benchmark, BESSTIE, to test AI on Australian, British, and Indian English, finding that current models are less effective with these varieties compared to their highly-touted performance on Standard American English. The study highlights that these performance gaps demonstrate the need to evaluate and train AI for specific national and linguistic contexts, referencing a separate project at the University of Western Australia and Google aimed at improving AI for Aboriginal English.

Commentators expressed shock after Australian fielder Glenn Maxwell dropped what was described as an easy catch early in the fifth T20I against the West Indies, as per a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The incident involving the star player fumbling a straightforward opportunity drew an immediate reaction from those covering the match.

Farmers in Western Australia's south-east are using aircraft to fertilize waterlogged fields following recent heavy rainfall, hoping to secure a successful harvest, ABC News says in a report. The significant 'double-digit' rainfall has left many fields inundated, preventing the use of ground machinery. This aerial application of fertilizer is a critical measure to capitalize on the substantial soil moisture, which could lead to a productive harvest season.

Sports commentators were reportedly stunned after Australian fielder Glenn Maxwell dropped what was described as an easy catch during the fifth T20I against the West Indies, according to a report in The Age. The incident involving the Australian player occurred early in the match.

Amid record-high demand for blood products, Australia has changed its eligibility rules to allow some cancer survivors to donate blood just one year after their final treatment, a significant reduction from the previous five-year deferral period, according to a report in ABC News. This policy update follows a change made two weeks prior that also eased restrictions for some donors in the LGBTQIA+ community by reducing the deferral period for men who have sex with men. The successive changes aim to expand the pool of eligible donors to meet pressing public health needs.

Traditional owners in Victoria's north-west are the first in the state to be granted exclusive native title rights, the strongest form of legal recognition under Australia's Native Title Act, ABC News says in a report. This form of title grants the right to control access to and use of the land, similar to freehold title, and applies to areas like unallocated Crown land where conflicting non-Indigenous interests do not exist. The determination is considered a significant step for self-determination, providing a stronger legal basis for the Wotjobaluk, Wergaia, Jardwadjali and Dja Dja Wurrung peoples to manage their ancestral lands and pursue economic opportunities. This development is particularly notable in Victoria, where such determinations have been less common due to the state's history of early land settlement.

A proposal in Australia to change food standards by excluding gene-edited products from the definition of genetically modified (GM) food has created a divide between industry groups, according to a report in ABC News. Food companies are reportedly in favor of the change, which could remove mandatory GM labeling for certain gene-edited items. However, the proposal has drawn criticism from organic producers, who contend that it undermines consumer transparency and the right to choose, potentially devaluing the organic certification which prohibits all forms of genetic modification.

Jasmine Flowers, a teenager in Australia, is publicly advocating for change after she was left with life-altering injuries, including a brain injury, from an e-scooter crash, as per a report in ABC News. Following her accident, Flowers is now speaking out to ensure other riders understand the significant risks and potential dangers associated with using e-scooters.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has announced a 5.7 percent decrease in the number of crime victims over a six-month period, according to a report in ABC News. The announcement serves as an update on a key promise made during the previous October election campaign, where Crisafulli pledged to resign if the number of crime victims had not decreased by the end of his term.

Russia and China's plans to expand their presence in Antarctica are raising concerns in Australia and among experts about potential military or mining ambitions that could challenge the Antarctic Treaty, according to a report in ABC News. The expansion is viewed within the context of wider geopolitical competition and has prompted alarm over the potential use of new facilities for dual military-scientific purposes. As a nation claiming 42% of the continent, Australia is under increased pressure to monitor activities in the region. The developments are testing the Antarctic Treaty System's Madrid Protocol, which currently designates the continent as a nature reserve for peace and science and bans all mining activities.

Recent and welcome rainfall in Victoria has provided a significant boost to the state's water storages and brought relief to local farmers, as per a report in ABC News. The influx of rain has been met with positive reactions from the agricultural community, although some farmers have noted minor challenges, such as calves being unaccustomed to the wet conditions. Overall, the event is seen as a positive development for the region's agricultural sector.

An Australian research study is providing students with coding classes, electronic tablets, and remote-controlled cars to encourage interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers, ABC News says in a report. Researchers are conducting the study based on the belief that providing hands-on technological experience at school will lead to more students pursuing careers in the tech sector. The initiative is a response to national skills shortages and aims to foster a future domestic workforce with strong technological capabilities.

Property owners in Pelican Point, South Australia, are independently taking action to protect their homes from coastal erosion because they are tired of waiting for government authorities to respond, ABC News says in a report. While some residents are reportedly sceptical of long-term predictions about sea-level rise, their actions are driven by immediate and observable threats to their properties. This community-led initiative underscores local frustration with what they perceive as a lack of effective official coastal management and protection strategies.

Australia's Alex de Minaur is ranked number eight in the world in the latest ATP men's tennis rankings with 3,335 points, as per a report in AP. The rankings are led by Italy's Jannik Sinner at number one, followed by Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and Germany's Alexander Zverev in the top three. De Minaur is the only Australian player listed in the top 15 of the current standings.

New research released by the South Australian Royal Commission into Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence highlights how children can be victims of coercive control by parents, according to a report in The Conversation. Based on interviews with teenagers aged 13-18 in South Australia, the study found that abusive adults use tactics like extreme surveillance, isolation, threats, and manipulation under the guise of parental discipline. Young victim-survivors reported being gaslit, punished for seeking help, and made to feel responsible for the abuse, leading to confusion about whether their experience constituted abuse. The report calls for greater public awareness and education for caregivers to distinguish between reasonable parenting and controlling behaviours, and for policy changes to better protect children.

A council in south-west Sydney is grappling with a 90 percent increase in the cost of holding its local government election, according to a report in The Age. This surge is part of a broader trend of soaring costs for administering local elections, placing significant financial strain on councils. In New South Wales, local councils are billed by the state's electoral commission for conducting these elections, and the rising fees are attributed to factors such as general inflation and increased operational expenses.

Victoria's Governor, Margaret Gardner, has been given an honorary membership to the Kelvin Club in Melbourne and is set to be involved in the club's 160th-anniversary celebrations, as per a report in The Age. The engagement is part of her role as the state's vice-regal representative. The Kelvin Club is a long-standing private social institution noted for its inclusive atmosphere.

Underworld figure Mick Gatto distributed Versace gold bracelets to officials from Australia's CFMEU union at restaurants and coffee shops, according to a report in The Age. The union's administrator has described the gifts as inappropriate and a "clear breach." The incident has reportedly fueled concerns that Gatto was attempting to exert undue influence over the construction union.

The major overhaul of the North Sydney Olympic Pool has been plagued by significant delays and cost blowouts, with the total price now reaching $122 million, according to a report in The Age. The project to transform the well-known public venue has drawn public scrutiny, particularly over specific expenditures such as a reported $42,000 for decorative frogs. Despite the long-standing frustrations, the local council responsible for the project has expressed hope that the extensive revamp will ultimately prove to be a valuable asset for the community once completed.

The Victorian government is considering a proposal to address an $11.5 billion funding shortfall for the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) project, according to a report in The Age. Under the plan, revenue from existing taxes—specifically land tax and stamp duty paid on properties located around new SRL stations—would be redirected from general state revenue into a dedicated fund for the project. This 'carve-out' mechanism is a form of value capture, aiming to use the increased property values generated by the new infrastructure to help pay for its construction.

A council in south-west Sydney is facing a 90 per cent increase in the cost of holding its local government election, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The significant rise in expenses, which are billed to the council by the NSW Electoral Commission, is part of a wider trend of soaring operational costs affecting local governments across Australia. These increases are attributed to factors such as general inflation, higher labor costs, and enhanced security and technology requirements for administering elections. The ballooning bill is placing financial strain on the council, potentially impacting other services or leading to pressure to raise local rates.

To address an $11.5 billion funding gap for the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) project, the Victorian government is proposing a contentious new funding model, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The plan would involve creating a special fund by redirecting revenue from existing state taxes—specifically land tax and stamp duty—paid on properties located in the vicinity of the new SRL stations. This "value capture" mechanism is not a new tax but a carve-out of current tax streams to ensure that the financial uplift properties receive from the new infrastructure contributes directly to its cost.

The Victorian government is set to introduce legislation to make it more difficult for repeat offenders to receive bail as parliament resumes its session, according to a report in ABC News. Concurrently, the government will face scrutiny from the opposition and the Greens, who plan to focus on ongoing issues and scandals within the state's childcare sector.

An administrator for Australia's Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) has found that officials accepted inappropriate gifts from Melbourne underworld figure Mick Gatto, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. Gatto reportedly handed out Versace gold bracelets to the union officials at various restaurants and coffee shops. The union's administrator has labelled the acceptance of these gifts as a "clear breach" of conduct rules, raising concerns about external influence over the powerful union, which was already under administrative oversight due to pre-existing governance issues.

A massive fire has engulfed a factory in the suburb of Minto in south-west Sydney. The blaze is described as significant, tearing through the industrial building in the key industrial and residential area.

Hundreds of thousands of Australians are expected to receive refunds totaling more than $60 million for excessive bank fees they were charged, according to a report in ABC News. The move follows regulatory action against major banks for unfair charging practices. However, the report notes that Commonwealth Bank customers may not see any of a separate $270 million in charges that were also identified as unfair.

A childcare worker in the Australian state of Queensland has been charged with torturing and repeatedly assaulting a one-year-old baby boy, as per a report in ABC News. The charges were laid against the individual in connection with the alleged abuse of the infant.

The adoption of electric vehicles in Australia is accelerating with the arrival of more affordable models but faces significant roadblocks, according to a report in ABC News. While an influx of more affordable EVs is expanding the market, major challenges remain. Key concerns include the availability and reliability of public charging infrastructure, especially in regional areas, and the overall purchase price of the vehicles. Furthermore, the implementation of road user charges for EVs by several state governments is viewed as a potential deterrent to wider adoption. The federal government is addressing these issues through its National EV Strategy.

A man has died in the Adelaide suburb of Munno Para West after being shot with his own firearm during a struggle with another man, according to a report in 7NEWS. The incident is currently under investigation by local authorities to determine the full circumstances of the altercation and the fatal shooting.

South Sydney Rabbitohs player Jack Wighton has received a three-game suspension from the National Rugby League (NRL), 7NEWS says in a report. The disciplinary action was taken in response to a shoulder charge by Wighton on player Toby Rudolf during a recent match. The NRL's decision to ban Wighton follows a review of the on-field incident.

Australian swimmer Sam Short dedicated his silver medal in the 400m freestyle to his late aunt, who he said battled cancer for 10 years, according to a report in 7NEWS. Short commented that the pain he experienced during the race was "nowhere near as bad as her battling cancer," explaining that thoughts of her struggle provided him with motivation during the event.

Australian Football League player Gary Rohan and his wife Madi have announced their newborn son is home after a "sudden and premature arrival" that led to a difficult week in intensive and emergency care, 7NEWS said in a report. The couple shared the news that their son was finally home after the challenging period.

A man has been charged in Australia's Northern Territory for allegedly defrauding a government agency of $3.5 million, 7NEWS says in a report. The individual is accused of sending an email to the agency while posing as a contractor from a construction company with which the agency was already working. The alleged impersonation successfully deceived the agency, leading to the transfer of funds.

Melbourne Demons captain Max Gawn has accepted blame for his team's last-minute loss to St Kilda in the AFL, 7NEWS says in a report. Gawn stated he was the only player on the field who knew there was very little time left on the clock when he took a mark. His decision to go back and take a set shot, rather than attempting a quicker play, consumed the remaining time, and the siren sounded before he could take his kick for goal, sealing the defeat for Melbourne.

Following a historic win for the St Kilda Football Club, player Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera was filmed celebrating on the shoulders of coach Ross Lyon, as per a report in 7NEWS. The celebration took place at a lively post-match function, highlighting the bond between the coach and the player after the game.

Cadillac will continue to offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in its Australian vehicles, a departure from its strategy in the US market, 7NEWS said in a report. While the automaker has begun phasing out the popular smartphone integration systems in its new models in the United States, it has confirmed that vehicles sold in Australia will retain these features. This decision means Australian customers will have access to both Cadillac's native infotainment system and the familiar interfaces of Apple and Google.

An investigation is underway following an online threat targeting Melbourne Demons coach Simon Goodwin, according to a report in 7NEWS. The threat, which reportedly included a 'chilling photo', was posted to social media shortly after the team's recent loss. Authorities are now looking into the matter to identify the source of the threatening post.

Following a mid-season rise, the Penrith Panthers are positioned to secure a rare place in the National Rugby League's history books, 7NEWS says in a report. The Australian team is nearing an achievement that has only been accomplished by one other team in the competition's 118-year history.

The UK-based potato chip brand Tyrrells is being removed from major Australian supermarkets due to consistently low sales, 7NEWS says in a report. The company that owns the brand confirmed the decision, stating that demand for the product was not sufficient to maintain its presence in the major retail chains. The move has prompted expressions of disappointment online from some of the brand's loyal customers in Australia.

A woman has been charged by Queensland Police following two bomb threat hoaxes targeting a childcare centre and a high school in Brisbane, according to a report in 7NEWS. The two separate threats were reportedly made within a 48-hour period, leading to a police investigation and the subsequent charges against the individual.

The long-running Australian television series 'Home and Away' is set to film in Western Australia for the first time in the show's history, according to a report in 7NEWS. This marks a significant production move for the popular drama, which has traditionally been filmed at locations in New South Wales.

Sydney resident Jade Muscat has pleaded guilty to six offences, including multiple counts of speeding, as per a report in 7NEWS. Muscat was caught speeding in her Jaguar F-Pace three times within a single day. The offences continued even after police had intervened and removed the vehicle's number plates as a penalty for the initial speeding incident.

A Californian bungalow in Canberra has sold for $2.7 million, marking the first time the property has changed hands in 62 years, the Canberra Times says in a report. The sale was made by the home's 95-year-old vendor.

Australia's transition to renewable energy may be more expensive than previously thought due to the cost of developing new technologies, according to a report in The Age. A new report from Australia's national science agency, CSIRO, indicates that while renewables remain the cheapest source of power, the overall cost of the green transition will be higher than earlier estimates. The increased expense is attributed to the need to develop and integrate technologies that have not been previously utilized within the country's energy grid.

A joint operation involving police, paramedics, and the State Emergency Service (SES) successfully rescued hikers stranded in sub-zero temperatures in Australia, as per a report in the Canberra Times. The rescue was prompted by the activation of a distress signal from the hikers, enabling a coordinated response from the emergency services to locate and assist them in hazardous conditions.

The family of Dennis Carruthers is demanding changes to the healthcare system after he died shortly after being discharged from Blacktown Hospital in Sydney, 7NEWS says in a report. The incident has drawn attention to systemic issues within Australia's public hospitals, particularly in New South Wales, including capacity constraints and pressures on emergency departments. The family believes Dennis Carruthers required ongoing hospital care and his death highlights concerns over patient discharge protocols amidst a strained public health environment.

Queensland Opposition Leader David Crisafulli is publicly encouraging residents to submit nominations for the 2026 Australian of the Year awards, according to a report in 7NEWS. The call to recognize outstanding locals comes as the deadline for the prestigious national awards, which are administered by the National Australia Day Council, approaches on July 31.

An Australian Capital Territory (ACT) integrity watchdog has referred a second report concerning alleged corruption at the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for consideration of potential criminal charges, the Canberra Times said in a report. This action signifies that the watchdog believes there is sufficient evidence to warrant a review for prosecution. The referral does not mean charges have been laid, but that the DPP will now independently assess the evidence to determine if a case should proceed.

A record-breaking property sale in a Canberra suburb has established a new price benchmark for the area, according to a report in the Canberra Times. The sale was highly competitive, with eight bidders vying for the property, ultimately driving the price to a new high. This event indicates strong demand within certain segments of the Canberra real estate market.

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has one of the lowest rates for organ donation registration in Australia, with only 28 per cent of eligible Canberrans currently registered to be donors, according to a report in the Canberra Times. This statistic highlights a significant challenge for the territory within Australia's national 'opt-in' system, which requires individuals to actively register their decision to donate. The low participation rate in the ACT focuses attention on the effectiveness of local public health initiatives designed to increase registrations for the national DonateLife program.

A motorcyclist from the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has died after a crash that occurred about 15km south of Batemans Bay in New South Wales, according to a report in the Canberra Times. The fatal incident took place on a route frequently used by Canberra residents travelling to the coast.

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) recorded the strongest real economic growth in Australia for the March 2025 quarter, as per a report in the Canberra Times. The CommSec report also indicates that consumer spending in the territory is anticipated to recover. The findings position the ACT as the leading jurisdiction for economic performance during the first three months of the year.

A Canberra-based company is facing allegations of 'wage theft' amounting to thousands of dollars, as per a report in the Canberra Times. If the accusation is proven, the company could be liable for a penalty of $112,000. Such cases in Australia are investigated by the Fair Work Ombudsman, the independent agency responsible for ensuring compliance with national workplace laws, which can initiate legal action for breaches of the Fair Work Act.

Recent rainfall in the Australian capital has transitioned into significant snow across nearby mountain resorts, creating favorable conditions for the start of the winter season, the Canberra Times says in a report. The snowfall has primarily affected the Australian Alps, particularly within the Snowy Mountains region of New South Wales, which serves as a key destination for winter sports and regional tourism.

Two individuals are facing accusations of fraud after allegedly printing their own barcodes to buy items at much lower prices from a business in north Canberra, according to a report in the Canberra Times. The incident of retail fraud, which involves using counterfeit barcodes to deceive the checkout system, was reported to ACT Policing. The alleged scheme allowed the pair to acquire goods without paying the correct retail price.

The men's professional tennis schedule for early 2025 includes two key tournaments in Australia, as per a report in AP. The Adelaide International is scheduled to run from January 3-11, followed by the Australian Open in Melbourne, which is set to take place from January 5-26.

Mary Kostakidis has requested the Australian federal court to strike out a racial discrimination claim made by the Zionist Federation of Australia (ZFA) regarding her social media posts about Israel, according to a report in The Guardian. In her application, Kostakidis argues the claim is legally 'embarrassing' because it is too ambiguous and fails to specify which race, ethnicity, or nationality was allegedly offended by her posts. The ZFA has stated in response that Kostakidis's attempt to have the case dismissed is 'without foundation and should be rejected'.

Australia's Shadow Finance Spokesman James Paterson has warned the current government not to put a "handbrake" on artificial intelligence, cautioning against policies that could stymie its development, according to a report in the Australian Financial Review. While issuing the warning, Paterson also acknowledged that the Coalition opposition had previously "got it wrong" regarding an election pledge on the same subject. The statement adds to the ongoing political debate surrounding the formation of Australia's national AI strategy and regulatory framework.

The New South Wales government is encountering significant pushback from unions and educators regarding proposed reforms to the state's workers' compensation system, according to a report in The Guardian. The government's bill seeks to curb claims by raising the threshold for what constitutes a compensable psychological injury and making it more difficult for workers to receive lifetime payments. Unions NSW has strongly criticized the proposal, arguing it fails to address underlying issues and accusing insurers of exploiting the system, citing one case where an insurer allegedly spent $85,000 in public funds to dispute a $5,000 surgery claim.

The Victorian government, under Premier Jacinta Allan, will debate new legislation aimed at giving VicGrid, the state's transmission planning body, expanded powers to access private farmland, as per a report in the Australian Financial Review. The proposed authority is intended to facilitate the construction of new transmission towers required for Victoria's renewable energy infrastructure. The move has prompted significant concern among farmers and rural communities regarding property rights and the impact on agricultural operations.

Former Australian Finance Minister Mathias Cormann has been reappointed as Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) with backing from the United States, the Australian Financial Review said in a report. A top economic adviser to US President Donald Trump praised the reappointment, describing Cormann as a "former conservative finance minister of our indispensable friend and ally Australia."

The Western Australian government is preparing plans to actively defend its current GST revenue-sharing arrangement amid increasing pressure from other states for a system-wide overhaul, as per a report in the Australian Financial Review. This development stems from the 2018 deal which guaranteed WA's share of the GST pool would not fall below a set floor, with the Commonwealth compensating other states through a "no worse off" guarantee. This top-up payment is now under scrutiny due to growing federal budget pressures, intensifying the conflict between WA's legislated deal and the national principle of Horizontal Fiscal Equalisation.

Australian authorities allowed a psychologist they suspected of being a violent abuser to continue working with children for several months, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The case reveals a significant systemic breakdown between various agencies, likely including state child protection services, law enforcement, and professional registration bodies. This failure in communication and timely intervention meant the individual was not removed from their role, leaving vulnerable children exposed to potential harm despite the known risks.

A warmer and wetter atmosphere is set to increase the frequency and severity of hailstorms along Australia's east coast, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The changing climate conditions mean that some Australian cities will experience a higher number of hailstorms, while others will be impacted by the formation of larger, more damaging hailstones.

A warmer and wetter atmosphere is increasing the risk of severe storms along Australia's east coast, with some cities expected to experience more hailstorms while others could be hit with larger, 'giant' hailstones, according to a report in The Age. The change in atmospheric conditions is driving the heightened threat, leading to projections of more frequent and intense hail events impacting the region.

Greater Western Sydney Giants captain Toby Greene is under scrutiny after an on-field incident during the 31st Sydney derby, as per a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. Cameras captured Greene kicking Sydney Swans defender Dane Rampe in the groin at the start of the Australian Football League match.

Australian swimmer Alexandria Perkins has secured a surprise bronze medal in the women's 100m butterfly event at the 2025 swimming world championships, according to a report in The Age.

An Australian court has issued an order preventing a father from interfering with his teenage son's chemotherapy, a treatment his parents are opposed to, The Age says in a report. The legal action was taken after doctors informed the court that the boy was only weeks from death and urgently required the medical intervention.

An inquest in Australia is examining the death of a baby boy that occurred after a planned home birth, according to a report in ABC News. The baby's mother testified that when complications first appeared, she assumed she would be transferred to a hospital for care. However, she told the inquest that the midwife overseeing the birth made the decision to continue monitoring her at home 'more closely' instead of initiating a hospital transfer at that point.

Australian politicians Josh Burns, a federal Labor MP, and Georgie Purcell, a Victorian Animal Justice Party MP, have announced they are expecting a baby, according to a report in News.com.au. The cross-party couple shared that their first child is due in the first days of 2026. They also mentioned their intention to raise the child on a vegan diet.

The Australian dollar has reached its highest value in nine months, with market expectations that it could exceed 66 US cents this week, as per a report in News.com.au. The currency's movement comes as financial markets await the release of key inflation data and the results of significant trade negotiations, both of which are expected to influence its trajectory.

Australian swimmer Alexandria Perkins has secured a bronze medal in the women's 100m butterfly final at the 2025 swimming world championships, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The result was noted as a surprise achievement for the athlete in the highly competitive event.

A court in Australia has ordered a father not to interfere with his teenage son's life-saving chemotherapy treatment, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. The legal intervention comes after doctors testified that the boy was just weeks from death without the medical procedure. The boy's parents have been opposed to him receiving the chemotherapy.

The Victorian government has pushed back against what it calls “cherry-picked analysis” claiming over $776 million has been spent on the state's Indigenous treaty process, News.com.au says in a report. Officials clarified that the actual expenditure directly related to the treaty and truth-telling process since 2020 amounts to $308 million. The spending is associated with the operations of the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria, the democratically elected body for negotiations, and the Yoo-rrook Justice Commission, the state's truth-telling commission.

The Collingwood Football Club has made a formal contract offer for Carlton's Jack Silvagni, a third-generation player for the Blues, The Age said in a report. The offer from Collingwood, known as the Pies, raises the possibility that Silvagni has played his final game for Carlton, who are referred to by their 'navy blue' team colors.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs fullback Connor Tracey was hospitalized due to severe abdominal pain, The Sydney Morning Herald said in a report. The club's General Manager of Football, Phil Gould, confirmed the development. Tracey was taken to the hospital for assessment following the onset of the pain.

House prices have declined in the area where the current season of the Australian reality TV show 'The Block' is being filmed, presenting a challenge for the program's contestants, according to a report in The Age. The situation is exacerbated by the news that a well-known billionaire buyer, who has previously purchased properties from the show, will not be participating this year. This development reflects broader cooling conditions in the Australian property market and a potential shift in investment confidence among high-net-worth individuals.

The Australian reality TV show 'The Block' is contending with the country's property market downturn, as falling house prices affect the setting for its upcoming season, according to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. Adding to the challenge, a prominent billionaire who has historically been a key buyer at the show's auctions will not be participating. This development is seen as a reflection of broader market caution among investors amid an economic climate of rising interest rates and dampening housing demand.

Online travel agency Webjet has agreed to pay a $9 million fine for making false or misleading statements regarding the price of flights and booking confirmations, according to a report in ABC News. The penalty was issued under the Australian Consumer Law following an investigation by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). This action aligns with the ACCC's ongoing focus on consumer protection in the digital economy, particularly concerning issues like 'drip pricing' and misleading advertising by online platforms.

A criminal lawyer is warning Australian motorists about the significant legal consequences of removing chalk marks placed on their tyres by parking inspectors, according to a report in Nine News. The act is not simply erasing a mark but can be legally interpreted as obstructing an officer or interfering with evidence. This is a more serious offence than a standard parking fine and can result in much higher penalties, potentially including criminal charges, depending on state and local council regulations.

The King's School in Sydney has initiated an investigation concerning its headmaster after an incident at a faith lecture, according to a report in The Age. The school confirmed it is reviewing the event, which took place in the final week of term 2 and was attended by approximately 100 students and staff members. Specific details about the nature of the incident have not been disclosed.

A grandfather has died in Adelaide after allegedly being ambushed while protecting his son, according to a report in The Age. Thalia Jacka stated that the victim would do anything for his children.

The second AFL season for West Coast Eagles player Harley Reid has concluded four games early, according to a report in ABC. The club confirmed that the rising star sustained an ankle injury that will sideline him for the final month of the competition.

Health authorities in Western Australia are urging the public to get vaccinated against influenza following the death of a toddler from the virus in Perth, according to a report in ABC News. The incident marks the first recorded flu-related death of a toddler in the state for 2025. In response to the tragedy, experts have reinforced public health warnings, emphasizing the importance of vaccination for the community, especially for vulnerable populations such as young children.

Melbourne defender Steven May has failed in his attempt to have a three-game suspension for rough conduct overturned by the Australian Football League's appeals board, according to a report in ABC News. The decision means the suspension will stand, and May will be unavailable for his team's next three matches.

An allegedly drunk driver has been charged after being trapped in his flipped van following a crash in southern Sydney, as per a report in Nine News. The incident involved the driver's van overturning and colliding with multiple parked vehicles. Police have since laid charges against the driver.

The winner of a $100 million lottery prize from a ticket purchased in Bondi has still not claimed their winnings more than a month after the draw, The Sydney Morning Herald says in a report. Despite extensive public appeals and significant media attention, the identity of the ticket holder remains a mystery. The situation highlights the procedures in place for such events, including the legal timeframe a winner has to claim a prize before it is handled under state regulations.

The City of Sydney Council is debating a controversial proposal to introduce an entrance fee for its renowned New Year's Eve fireworks display, as per a report in Nine News. The debate centers on new funding models for the major public event, which has historically been free for the public to attend. The discussion arises amid financial pressures on local governments and concerns about the rising costs of staging the large-scale celebration.

The Australian Senate has voted to establish an inquiry into delays surrounding aged care reforms after the Albanese government lost a key vote in the upper house, according to a report in The Guardian. The inquiry will investigate delays in the rollout of home care packages, the extent of unmet needs, and the wellbeing of seniors currently on waiting lists. This development followed the government's rejection of calls to urgently fund an additional 20,000 home care packages, sparking criticism and warnings of a developing 'two-speed' system that disadvantages poorer elderly citizens.

A restaurateur in an Australian central business district has taken down a gazebo that reportedly cost $150,000, sparking a dispute with the government, ABC News says in a report. The hospitality venue owner alleges that the action was necessary due to a government reversal on a previously granted approval for the outdoor structure. This incident has become the center of a row between the business owner and government authorities over regulations concerning public spaces.

The trial for Perth man Chris Marco, who is accused of orchestrating a $36.5 million fraud, has commenced in the Supreme Court of Western Australia, as per a report in The Sydney Morning Herald. During opening statements, the prosecution characterized Marco as an 'illusionist' and a 'leprechaun' who allegedly promised to lead his clients to a figurative pot of gold. The case involves allegations of a large-scale fraudulent investment scheme that has drawn scrutiny from financial regulators.

Australia's largest lender is set to provide significant financing for high-speed prefabricated home construction in an effort to boost housing supply, according to a report in The Age. The move is intended to address the country's housing crisis by accelerating the building process, which could help meet the federal government's ambitious national housing targets. This development is notable not for a new technology, as prefabricated methods have existed previously, but for the major financial backing that could enable these building techniques to be deployed at a much larger scale. This initiative comes as the traditional construction sector contends with ongoing labor shortages and supply chain disruptions.

A new Netflix production with the working title 'Allen' has commenced filming on the Gold Coast in Australia, The Sydney Morning Herald says in a report. A famous local landmark has been chosen as the backdrop for the movie, with production now underway.

The trial of Chris Marco, a Perth man accused of a $36.5 million fraud scheme, has commenced in the Supreme Court of Western Australia, according to a report in The Age. The court was told that the prosecution has described Marco as an 'illusionist' who allegedly represented himself to clients as a 'leprechaun' who could lead them to wealth. The case involves allegations of a large-scale investment deception affecting numerous investors.

Former South Australian MP Annabel Digance has filed a $2.3 million lawsuit alleging she was maliciously prosecuted, according to a report in ABC News. The legal action names South Australia's Premier Peter Malinauskas, SA Police, and the Director of Public Prosecutions as defendants.

Travellers heading to the popular tourist town of Coral Bay in Western Australia for the winter season are being warned to drive with caution, ABC News said in a report. The warning comes after a 25-year-old man was killed in a crash over the weekend on a road that has been described as 'unsafe'. The incident has prompted calls for increased driver care as the tourist season peaks in the region.

The New South Wales government is trialing the removal of shark nets from three beaches in Sydney and the Central Coast, according to a report in The Guardian. Scientists have responded to the trial, stating the nets create a false sense of security, are ineffective at preventing shark bites, and indiscriminately kill other marine life. Lawrence Chlebeck, a marine biologist at Humane World for Animals, described the 150-metre-long nets, which are placed 500 metres offshore, as being like a "table tennis net on a soccer pitch" to illustrate their limited effectiveness.

Wyndham council, located in Melbourne's rapidly growing outer south-west, has been referred to Victoria's anti-corruption watchdog over a failed IT project worth tens of millions of dollars, according to a report in ABC News. The referral is related to the significant financial loss of public funds and the alleged mismanagement of the project within one of Australia's fastest-growing municipalities.

Australia's largest commercial bank is launching a major financing initiative for high-speed prefabricated home building to help tackle the country's housing crisis, The Sydney Morning Herald said in a report. This move aims to accelerate the supply of new homes by providing significant capital for modular construction, a method that can be faster than traditional building. The financial backing from a major private lender is intended to make these advanced construction techniques more viable for developers and contribute to meeting national housing supply targets.

A teenager is fighting for life after sustaining a gunshot wound at a residence in Melbourne, The Sydney Morning Herald says in a report. The incident occurred at a home in the city, and the victim's condition is currently described as life-threatening.