Stories from Australia

North Melbourne suffered a seven-point loss to GWS in Canberra during an AFL match. Forward Nick Larky kicked five goals for the Kangaroos during the game. The Giants maintained a lead for much of the match despite challenges from North Melbourne. The result leaves North Melbourne facing missed opportunities following the narrow defeat. Greater Western Sydney (GWS) secured a seven-point victory against North Melbourne in round seven of the AFL in Canberra. The Giants finished with a score of 105-98 against the Kangaroos' 98. Captain Toby Green contributed two goals and 28 disposals during the match. The final score was 15-15-105 to 14-14-98.

The Australian Steelers won the bronze medal at the 2026 Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge held in Adelaide. The tournament results also included the Highlanders defeating Pacifica 27 to 17. In the Super Round matches played in Christchurch, the Chiefs secured a victory. The event marks the final year of a two-year deal for the international sport to be held in South Australia.

Foreign energy companies are booking approximately $3 billion in gross profit every month from liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. The companies identified include Chevron, Exxon, Impax, and Woodside. These high profits are occurring against the backdrop of Trump's actions regarding Iran. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and the federal government are currently involved in related matters.

Gas prices in eastern Australia have trended downward over the last month. This follows previous concerns regarding companies inflating prices despite their social license to operate. Shell Australia Chair Cecile Wake testified before a Greensled Senate inquiry regarding potential gas taxes. Wake stated that implementing such a tax would be an ill-advised move. The testimony highlighted concerns that new taxes risk future investment in the gas sector. There is broad political agreement that Australia will require increased gas supplies in the future. Opposition leader Angus Taylor argues that a new gas tax would discourage investment during the current energy crisis. Taylor claims the tax's motive is to stop investment rather than generate revenue. Western Australian Premier Roger Cook stated he does not support a proposed 25% flat tax on gas.

Economist Bruce Mountain and energy executive Ted Woodley have described the Snowy Hydro 2.0 project as one of the biggest disasters in Australian infrastructure. The project is reportedly exceeding both its original budget and its timeline. Calls for a Royal Commission have emerged following reports of the project's mismanagement. The project was originally announced by former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull. Demands for an independent inquiry into Snowy Hydro 2.0 continue as successive governments are accused of failing to address the project. Concerns remain regarding the exclusion of interest during the 14-year construction period and the financial expenditure involved. Analysis suggests a continuing blowout in the cost of the Snowy Hydro scheme. There is discussion about potentially initiating a Royal Commission due to secrecy surrounding the project and some of the contracts made.

Marcia Langton has called for increased police presence to protect observers during ANZAC ceremonies in Australia. She stated that right-wing forces have perverted the meaning of 'Welcome to Country' ceremonies. Langton suggested that individuals who boo during these events should be barred from future ceremonies. The comments follow recent incidents of booing during Anzac Day speeches.

The Athletics Integrity Unit received $50,000 in contributions this year to manage doping offences and matters for World Athletics. Last year, the unit received $70,000 in funding leading up to the Berlin Marathon. This funding supported an testing volume, including 25 tests conducted specifically for the Berlin Marathon. The funds are directed toward maintaining integrity within global athletics competitions.

Mouse densities in the Geraldton area have reached between 8,000 and 10,000 per hectare. Authorities are currently looking to implement control measures to assist local farmers. Stubble retention and no-till farming practices have created habitats allowing mice to breed in numbers quickly. Control methods are being evaluated to manage the population growth.

Young people in New South Wales are facing increased vulnerability within the Australian housing system. The head of Southern Youth and Family Services reported a horrendous increase in numbers over the last 12 months. At least an extra 100 young people were identified as experiencing homelessness during this period. Structural barriers are cited as a primary cause for this trend. Dry conditions and increased production costs due to the Middle East war are impacting regional stability.

Over 11,000 residents in Northcote have signed a petition opposing the opening of a McDonald's in the area. The high street shopping strip is noted for its eclectic mix of restaurants and live music scene. The location is situated approximately 6km northeast of the Melbourne CBD. The Dandenong City Council has reviewed the matter.