Stories from Canberra · Australia

The High Court unanimously ruled on federal legislation challenged by parliamentarians. These laws, which include donation caps, were originally set to commence in a couple of months but now face a January 1, 2027, start date due to implementation difficulties.

New figures obtained by ABC reveal nearly 3,300 aged care patients are stranded in Australian hospital beds, marking a 35% increase from approximately 2,500 patients in September. This rise occurred over about six months, posing a challenge for patients and the public hospital system. This surge is intensifying calls for federal government intervention to address the crisis.

The Canberra Raiders are preparing to face the Penrith Panthers, with commentators noting Canberra's potential to disrupt Penrith's systematic play. The Raiders are described as having 'big bodies' and 'electric' outside backs, including players like Sanders, Strange, and Kio Weeks, who can challenge Penrith's strategy. Hudson Young ran towards Nathan Cleary, and Horsburgh contributed to a physical start to the game. Ethan Sanders cleared from his own 40-metre line, with Dylan Edwards catching inside his 20-metre line. The game is being played at Canberra Stadium, with the Panthers currently ahead after previously trailing 2-1. Player Jed Stewart took a kick under pressure, and Penrith may be facing a breeze that could be assisting Canberra in the second half. Commentary suggests wind conditions might be assisting the Canberra Raiders in the second half of the semi-final game.

The government plans to invest an additional $2 billion to facilitate the construction of 65,000 new homes. This investment is intended to address small-scale infrastructure, local roads, water, and power infrastructure, which are often barriers to project completion.

A group of 200 people was arrested, with many individuals identified as being from Malaysia and Cambodia. Malaysian authorities arrested 44 foreign nationals during an operation targeting a construction site. The individuals were found to have committed various immigration offenses, including overstaying and lacking valid documentation.

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers announced that a financial year figure has been revised upwards to $2 billion.

The Australian government is accused of breaking its promises on tax issues in the lead-up to the budget.

The federal budget is scheduled to be handed down this Tuesday in Canberra. This follows the Reserve Bank increasing interest rates for the third time this year, which has caused financial pressure for many households.

Pauline Hanson, leader of One Nation, stated her party is now aiming for all other seats following what was described as the 'first kind of federal test.' This development is considered a milestone, though it is not expected to alter the Labor government's majority.

Australian Opposition Leader Angus Taylor criticized the government's position on gains tax and negative gearing.