Stories from Canberra · Australia

More than 100 public servants gathered outside the ACT Legislative Assembly in Canberra to demand a better pay deal. The Community and Public Service Union rejected the ACT government's offer of a 3% annual pay rise.

Opposition leader Angus Taylor told Sky News that the government is in denial regarding the situation in refugee camps. Taylor stated that violence and sexual violence are occurring within the camps. He argued that this denial prevents honest conversations about available options to address the state of affairs. Territory Senator Jacinta Nampijin-Price published an opinion piece in the Australian regarding the situation. He claimed this denial has prevented honest conversations about the state of the 10 camps and potential solutions. The comments follow recent violence in the camps. He argued the government is not fulfilling its promises and is initiating an "intergenerational war" around the kitchen table.

A senior official from the agency managing Australia's National Disability Insurance Scheme reported approximately $3.7 billion in inappropriate payments during the last financial year. The announcement was made by Sarah Dingle.

A truck driver has been found guilty of negligent driving following a fatal motorcycle crash in Holt.

Police Minister Anthony Carbine announced the government will act on advice to tighten laws regarding offenses against emergency workers. A potential loophole currently limits certain jail sentences to workers who are actively on duty.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated the country is drafting legislation to adjust restrictions from a 2021 news content law. The move aims to support the sustainable development of domestic media organizations.

The President is expected to be joined by Secretary of Defence Pete Hixeth and General Dan Cain for a briefing regarding the Mediterranean. The briefing follows the provision of defensive and diplomatic support to the region by Australia.

A recent ruling found that funding for intelligence services has increased by billions of dollars.

Rebate changes for the federal Cheaper Home Batteries program have commenced today. Since July last year, more than 266,000 solar batteries have been installed across Australia. The program has seen over a quarter of a million home batteries installed nationwide.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed Australia is participating in discussions regarding a US proposal to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The briefing may include discussions on further military action. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei re-asserted Iran's control over the strait. Khamenei stated the United States had already suffered a disgraceful defeat in the war. Jennifer Parker, an adjunct professor at the University of Western Australia, provided commentary on US positions. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated the government would engage in any effort to assist in opening the strait. This development represents a shift in the current diplomatic landscape. The Australian Prime Minister expressed openness to sending Australian Defence Force military assets to support a coalition in the Strait of Hormuz.